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Police issue anti-social behaviour warning as heatwave hits

Police Scotland A police car parked at the edge of Loch LomondPolice Scotland
Police Scotland is increasing patrols around Loch Lomond during the summer

Police have issued public safety and anti-social behaviour warnings ahead of what is expected to be Scotland's hottest weekend of the year.

The heatwave coincides with several large outdoor events including TRNSMT in Glasgow, the Tiree Music Festival and the Island Games in Orkney.

Crowds are also expected to head to lochs, rivers and other beauty spots during the soaring temperatures which could peak at 30C (86F).

Police Scotland has launched Operation Ballaton to address disruptive incidents in Balloch and the areas surrounding Loch Lomond.

The operation, which has been carried out in previous years, will be in force throughout the summer months.

Getty Images A blue and white boat is moored next to a tree-lined shore on Loch Lomond as mountains, a blue sky and clouds are reflected in the water.Getty Images
Visitor numbers to Loch Lomond increase during the summer months

Insp Colin Cameron said young people often travelled to Loch Lomond in groups during the warmer weather.

He said: "Balloch and the surrounding areas attract large numbers of people during the summer months, and we are committed to making sure they remain safe, welcoming places for everyone.

"Officers will be on high-visibility patrol and anyone engaging in anti-social behaviour, violence or criminal activity will be dealt with firmly and proportionately."

Insp Cameron urged parents and carers to warn children and young people about the risks of getting involved in disorder.

Operation Ballaton will also involve British Transport Police, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, West Dunbartonshire and Argyll & Bute councils, ScotRail, and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority.

Temperatures are expected to be as high as 30C (86F), exceeding the 28.9C (84F) high recorded in Drumnadrochit on the shore of Loch Ness in June.

Wildfire warning

PA Media A gamekeeper from the Scottish Gamekeeper's Association uses a leaf blower to direct flames in a wildfire at the end of June - we see a dark hill with bright flames creeping up it and smoke filling the skyPA Media
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has warned about potential wildfires during the dry period

Meanwhile, an extreme wildfire warning has been issued until Monday, advising people to avoid using naked flames in the outdoors.

It comes after another blaze in Dava on Wednesday and other incidents across the Highlands and Moray in recent weeks.

Leigh Hamilton, ranger service manager at Loch Lomond National Park Authority, said a fire in May caused by a disposable barbecue at Glen Finglas had a "devastating impact"

She said: "As we face continued drier, more fire-prone conditions, we urge everyone to be vigilant and act responsibly.

"Avoid naked flames including disposable barbecues, dispose of waste properly, and call 999 immediately if you witness a wildfire."