Police horses Elgin and Inverness were on patrol in Cambuslang Park on Friday in a bid to crack down on antisocial youth behaviour.
Members of the mounted division rode into town, joined by officers from the local problem solving team, who maintained a presence throughout the evening to deter any potential troublemakers.
Concerns have been raised over crowds of young people meeting in the park to drink, with the problem becoming worse recently.
Inspector Stephen McManus said: “During the summer months, and particularly the school holidays, we experience a significant increase in reports of youth disorder within our parks and open spaces in Cambuslang and Rutherglen.
“A proportion of calls reference youths consuming or being in possession of alcohol and community officers have already seized a significant amount of alcohol during their patrols of parks and open spaces.”
Local officers are now teaming up with colleagues to step up patrols at throughout the area, Inspector McManus added: “In response to the increase in incidents we have a dedicated policing plan with officers undertaking high visibility patrols and positively engaging with anyone they encounter in the parks.
“The plan primarily focuses on activity of our community officers, however they are supported by Police Scotland resources including the mounted unit, who were deployed in Cambuslang on Friday and I believe were very well received by the community.
“In fact, someone was kind enough to leave a bag of carrots for the horses after they had finished their patrols.”
Police Scotland Horses posted on Twitter: “What a lovely surprise Inverness & Elgin got when they returned to the lorry in Cambuslang after patrolling.
“A lovely person left a bag of carrots. So they devoured them on returning to the stables! They did share them with the others! Thank you mysterious carrot person.” Parents are being encouraged to play their part in ensuring their children don’t engage in anti-social behaviour.
Inspector McManus added: “I appreciate that due to the ongoing measures that there have been a lack of diversionary activities available. However, I would ask parents and our young people within Cambuslang and Rutherglen to please use and enjoy local parks in a responsible manner.
“I believe that by working together we can reduce reports of this manner and allow all members of the community to enjoy our local parks. Be safe and enjoy the summer holidays.”
