A STARK rise in vandalism and “reckless conduct” in Cockenzie and Port Seton is greatly concerning to residents, according to the village’s community council.

Between December 7 and January 7, six anti-social behaviour calls were made to police regarding youths causing issues in the village.

In recent months, there have been significant concerns raised in relation to anti-social behaviour in the Preston Seton Gosford ward.

The community council told how police officers had been “ambushed” when attending incidents, with items being thrown at them, resulting in officers taking evasive action to avoid serious injury.

The areas with anti-social behaviour issues are Port Seton Community Centre, Links Road, the Rowanhill and Sycamore areas, and Cockenzie Primary School.

Additionally, the community council added that “there is little to no regard” for the safety of the public from those causing the problems.

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Through work from local community police officers, a number of perpetrators have been identified, traced, charged and reported.

Meanwhile, throughout the festive period, the community team in Prestonpans continued to target anti-social behaviour as part of the Problem Solving Partnership with East Lothian Council.

Chief Inspector Jocelyn O’Connor, Police Scotland local area commander for East Lothian, said: “There have been extra patrols by police and community wardens.

“Six youths have been charged with seven offences and multi-agency work continues to prevent further incidents.

“We have seen a recent reduction in reported incidents and will continue this focus moving forwards.”