CONCERNS have been raised over crowds of young people from outside East Renfrewshire who are travelling to the area and trashing its beauty spots.

Police are taking action to tackle the anti-social behaviour at quarries and reservoirs near Barrhead, Giffnock and Eaglesham.

Some of the youngsters involved are thought to be travelling from their own areas in the likes of East Kilbride and Cambuslang, with the problem becoming worse during the summer months.

READ MORE: Trio in court over alleged serious assault

Local officers are now teaming up with colleagues from the British Transport Police (BTP) to step up patrols at East Renfrewshire’s train stations.

Inspector Stevie Scott told the Barrhead News: “Youths travelling to these stations are not necessarily from East Renfrewshire.

“Information would suggest they are travelling from further afield, such as East Kilbride, Rutherglen and Cambuslang.

“We have created a joint action plan with BTP in order to increase our visible presence in and around stations, as well as BTP officers travelling the routes at certain times when resources or commitments allow.

“The weekends are generally the most prominent time and the action plan will run across the summer months.

“I have tasked my officers to keep tabs on all the prominent locations associated with specific stations. For example, Patterton and Williamwood stations have access to Rouken Glen Park, where we can have issues around anti-social behaviour and drinking in public.”

One of the main concerns raised by police is the risk to safety caused by youngsters who are using open water as a playground.

READ MORE: Police launch hunt for firebug after arson attack at industrial estate

Picketlaw Reservoir, in Eaglesham, has been a hotspot for anti-social behaviour, with residents complaining about litter and broken glass being left lying around.

A spokesperson for Eaglesham Community Council said: “We have had large groups of teenagers at Picketlaw Reservoir a few times in the last couple of months.

“We do not believe they are from the village but are coming in from other areas.

“The main issue has been the rubbish and broken glass left at the reservoir.

“We have been advised by the council and the police to keep reporting any incidents.”

Inspector Scott added: “I would advise parents to ensure they know where their children are, encourage them to stay safe and to educate them on the dangers of open water.”