Reports of antisocial behaviour in parts of Stirlingshire have been cut by half after Central Scotland Police introduced a scheme to stop alcohol being bought for under-18s.

The “Stop the Supply” campaign, which required off-licences in Stenhousemuir and Larbert to refuse to serve under-21s at key times, began after more than 300 reports of fighting and vandalism were received last year.

More than half of the incidents involved those aged under 18, and many were on Friday and Saturday nights. People in the 18-21 age group were identified as being the most likely to buy alcohol for those under 18.

Police said that the scheme had already proved a success, with only 24 reports of antisocial behaviour in April and May - down from 45 in the same period last year. “This is obviously linked to the fact that it is more difficult for those under age to get alcohol from their local shops,” he said.

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