Cops vow to continue pressure on vandals Large groups of youths continue to gather and drink
NICOLA FINDLAY
Police have vowed to continue targeted patrols at a community woodland after mass groups descended on the beauty spot.
The News previously reported that K-Woodlands, run by the charity East Kilbride Community Trust, had been targeted by vandals causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.
While the vandalism has tailed off, large groups of both youths and adults have still been gathering, flouting lockdown rules.
Councillor Monique McAdams, chief executive of EK Community Trust said just last week she had to call the police after reports of several large groups congregating in the woodland, some of them clearly inebriated.
She told the News: “Sadly, despite our previous message to use the woods responsibly, we still have had issues.
“There has been a lot of activity with people gathering.
“Last weekend I was called out by volunteers who said several large groups had been spotted.
“And we aren’t just talking a few folk here and there – we are talking multiple groups of 20, 30 people plus which is just beyond belief.
“Some of them had been drinking and were clearly intoxicated.
“And it wasn’t just youths, there were groups of adults too who should know better.
“I had to call the police and with their help we moved people on.
“Some small fires had been started yet again but thankfully we managed to put them out ourselves.
“There was absolutely no social distancing and I would remind people that drinking alcohol in a public place is an offence in itself.”
She added: “I do feel for people and know it’s hard at the minute especially on people’s mental health when they can’t meet with friends like they normally would.
“But we have a collective responsibility to look after each other and disregarding advice which is designed to protect us all is irresponsible.
“We want people to still be able to use the woods while following guidelines and sticking to the appropriate number of people – but not gathering on mass like this.
“It’s also not fair on those who are being responsible including families who may be intimidated by large groups.
“I would like to thank those who have been considerate and the many who have taken on board our pleas not to litter and to take any rubbish home with them.”
Inspector Stephen McGovern said: “We are still out on patrol, engaging with and educating members of the public on the latest guidance issued by Scottish Government in relation to COVID-19.
“Following on from concerns last week officers will be deployed on foot and cycle over the course of the weekend to attempt minimise any further issues both at this location and others across the locality.”