Your new inspector

Firstly, I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself, having recently taken on the role as Local Area Inspector for Clydesdale and Larkhall.

I have been a police officer for ten years, serving across Lanarkshire in a number of uniform and plain clothes roles. I have also performed duties within the National Police Reform Team, which created Police Scotland and the Commonwealth Games Planning Team.

I am looking forward to getting to know the Larkhall area and working with the local leadership team to tackle the issues which cause our communities the most concern.

As the summer weather continues, hopefully, we have noticed an increase in reports of young people gathering in some of the parks and grass areas around the towns. This has included Chatelherault Park. Whilst not wishing to spoil any fun, of concern are the reports of large quantities of alcohol being used and a recent assault which happened as the result of an alcoholfuelled fight.

I would ask that you speak to your children or family members and discuss with them the dangers of underage drinking or excessive consumption of alcohol.

Further to this, there have also been recent reports of broken bottles being left in grass areas and near to play parks. This poses a real risk to younger children and pets, which may result in nasty injuries. If you find this type of incident it can be reported to South Lanarkshire Council, who will help in having the areas cleared.

This week we are appealing for witnesses to an attempted housebreaking which occurred overnight on July 3, at Calder Street in Blantyre. The occupier of the house heard a loud noise and, when checking, did not initially observe anyone. However, on leaving his home the following morning he noticed his front door handle was missing.

On July 6, we received reports of a serious assault on Calderwood Drive in Blantyre. A 32-year-old man was walking in the area when he was approached by a group of four or five males. An altercation ensued which resulted in the man being struck on the head with a brick.

At around 3am on July 6, a report was received of a male attempting to break into a shed on West Clyde Street in Larkhall. Police attended and were informed a male wearing shorts was seen running near the property.

Overnight on July 6, a report was received of three youths wearing scarves over their faces attempting to force open a fire door at Sainsbury’s in Hamilton.

In the hot weather it can be tempting to leave windows open for the night. However, I would ask you all to close and lock all windows and doors each night.

This coming week you will continue to see an increased presence in the Burnbank area of Hamilton in relation to the concerns that have been raised. The local problem solving officers for the area will be conducting highvisibility patrols to prevent and detect any anti-social behaviour.

If you have any information that may assist us, please phone 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.