Speak out on crime and anti-social behaviour

A public event will be held in Cambuslang tomorrow in response to a spike in reported crime and anti-social behaviour cases.

List MSP James Kelly revealed that he has had a sharp increase in residents complaining about criminal activity and anti-social behaviour in the town.

The Labour politician and colleague Walter Brogan, a councillor for Cambuslang East, have now teamed up with local police officers to tackle these issues.

They are holding a joint dropin event at the Caledonian Centre in Cambuslang Circuit from 11am until 1pm, and are inviting local people to attend and share their concerns.

Mr Kelly said that he regularly deals with constituents worried about what is going on in their neighbourhood, and that being able to raise these problems direct with the police will allow their issues to be tackled efficiently.

Common complaints raised with the MSP include issues on anti-social and abusive neighbours, justice and the direct police experience.

James Kelly MSP said: “It is clear that anti-social behaviour issues throughout the Cambuslang area are becoming a real concern for many local people. I hope that all those who are free and able to come along on Thursday will do so as I am keen to hear more about the problems facing the local community.

“I am delighted that officers from Police Scotland will be joining Councillor Brogan and me in Cambuslang circuit as I believe this joint approach will enable us all to best effectively tackle these issues.

“My office and I work on hundreds, if not thousands, of cases every year, and anti-social behaviour unfortunately is a recurring theme.

“If Reformer readers are unable to attend this session, I would encourage them to get in touch with my office on 0141 465 993 or send me an email.”

Inspector Bob Bryce, of Rutherglen Police Office, is due to attend the drop-in along with PC Arthur Hailstones.

Inspector Bryce said: “We are looking forward to hearing directly from people from the local area in order to give us a better insight into the problems that they are currently facing.

“By gaining a deeper understanding of the antiSocial behaviour issues that are becoming increasingly more prevalent we have a better ability to deal with them as and when they should arise.

“It is also a great opportunity for us to maintain our visible presence into the local community and meet with local people.”