POLICE have been staging extra patrols in an East Renfrewshire park following a clash between youths that left three 16-year-old boys injured.

All three teenagers needed hospital treatment as a result of the incident, which took place at Overlee Park, in Clarkston, on the evening of August 7, as schoolkids gathered to celebrate their exam results.

Detectives have since arrested an 18-year-old suspect but concerns have been raised over levels of policing in the area.

Eastwood MSP Jackson Carlaw and East Renfrewshire MP Paul Masterton are among those seeking reassurances that enough bobbies are on the beat.

Mr Carlaw said: “This was the happiest of days for many young people across Eastwood. That it should end with a shocking and violent incident is as unacceptable as it is alarming.

“Together with my colleague Paul Masterton, I will be in touch with Police Scotland and have also contacted the Justice Secretary, Humza Yousaf MSP, who has previously lived in the immediate area.”

Inspector Bryan McGeogh, who is based at Giffnock Police Station, said additional patrols have been organised at the park in a bid to provide reassurance.

He added: “I understand this incident will cause concern amongst the local community. However, I would like to reiterate that it is believed to be isolated.”

Police were called to the large-scale disturbance at around 8.15pm, with a number of officers responding.

A police helicopter was deployed and ambulance crews arrived to take the injured teenagers to hospital.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “An 18-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. Enquiries are continuing to trace individuals involved in the disturbance.”