A 19-year-old man has been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for allegedly purchasing alcohol for underage teens at an off-license in Stevenston.

Officers from the Three Towns Locality Policing Team were conducting patrols in the Townhead Street area at around 4.30pm on Friday, April 21 when they observed a man allegedly supplying alcohol to young people aged 15 and 16.

Officers provided additional patrols in the Stevenston area on Friday/Saturday, April 21/22 in response to local concerns regarding antisocial behaviour.

A spokesperson for the Three Towns Locality Policing Team said: “This weekend a significant number of underage young people have been found in possession of alcohol which has been seized and disposed of by police.

“The consumption of alcohol by young people can have a negative effect on their health and make them more vulnerable to crime.

“In order to safeguard individuals we returned a number of children to their parents and guardians which provided an opportunity to discuss their behaviour and encourage positive lifestyle choices.

“We are appealing to parents and guardians of young people across North Ayrshire to know where their children are and to consider whether or not they may be engaging in antisocial behaviour.

“We are also encouraging parents and carers to discuss with their child the detrimental effects alcohol and drugs can have and how vulnerable they can make people.

“We will continue to work together with our partners and local communities to target issues of local concern.”

Anyone with concerns about crime in their community is encouraged to contact their Local Policing Team by calling 101. In an emergency always dial 999.

The Choices For Life website has all the latest information for parents/carers and young people about drugs, alcohol and how to deal with negative peer pressure. For more information visit http://young.scot/choices-for-life/.