Calls for a blitz on drinking den

Locals say they have had to endure the ‘devastation’ left behind following late-night binges in a nearby woodland at the High Moss.

The aftermath, picture, right, is said to be a regular sight among early-morning dog walkers who frequent the area.

Piles of rubbish, burned out bonfires and alcohol containers litter the site, along with stolen shopping trolleys, thought to be used as seating.

Claims of substance abuse have also been made after empty aerosol cans were found discarded.

One resident, who asked not to be named, said: “This is a problem that has been going on for months now.

“I have seen large groups head into this area, sometimes 15-20 youngsters at a time. They sit in there all night, and the mess they leave behind is absolutely horrendous.

“The amount of rubbish is huge, with broken bottles, cans, food containers left lying around. I know a number of dog walkers who have raised the issues of broken glass.

“Myself and others have picked up and cleared the mess often, but after a few days it’s as bad as ever.”

The woman added: “It is a complete eyesore, and not only is there a number of smashed bottles but there is also signs of substance abuse.

“They also leave bonfires unattended and I have had to call out the fire service a couple of times. I have also reported this to the police on a number of occasions.

“It is devastation, it really is. Surely there is some way to put a stop to this?”

Though police could not confirm any call outs to this particular den, they say they employ a robust approach to anti-social behaviour across East Dunbartonshire.

Chief Inspector Rob Hay, divisional commander for East Dunbartonshire, said: “Anti-social behaviour spoils people’s quality of life and blights communities.

“We are committed to tackling anti-social behaviour with our partners via the East Dunbartonshire Community Safety Partnership.

“This approach has led to a reduction in reports of antisocial behaviour from members of the public to the police of 19 per cent last year, and 22 per cent so far this year since April.”