Fife police highlight problems in Valleyfield and Culross

The force has highlighted a series of incidents in High Valleyfield, Low Valleyfield, Newmills and Culross and said it could knock the confidence of the occupants who are targeted.

Knocking on a door and running away "may seem like a harmless prank" but the police said the problems have "escalated".

In November's crime report covering the West Fife and Coastal Villages area, a section headed 'Chap Door Run' said: "Officers are aware of a number of calls over the past few months in relation to anti-social behaviour in High Valleyfield, Low Valleyfield, Newmills and Culross.

"This consists of a group of youths attending at properties and banging on the door, however has also included escalated behaviour such as kicking at doors and throwing eggs at properties.

"Generally this does not constitute criminal behaviour, however the anti-social aspect of this type of behaviour should not be underestimated.

"The occupants of targeted properties have vulnerabilities and what may seem like a harmless prank to those responsible can affect the confidence and mental wellbeing, long after the incident occurred.

There have been more police patrols in the West Fife villages after residents complained of anti-social behaviour. (Image: Newsquest) READ MORE: Jealous pub thug smashed pool cue over stranger's head and attacked woman

"Police constables (Martin) Cooper and (Leroy) Wishart, along with Police Sergeant (Barry) Stewart, have conducted patrols in the evenings in the past months, particularly concentrating on the Culross area as that is where the majority of calls police received originated from.

"PC Cooper and PS Stewart also attended at the addresses of several affected residents and engaged with them, providing reassurance and advice.

"We would always encourage parents to engage with their children about what they do with their friends when they are out of the house and dissuade them from engaging in any anti-social behaviour."