A CRACKDOWN on youths running rampage on the railways and at open air parties in Inverclyde has paid off.

Inverclyde's police area commander Debbie Reilly has reported a massive drop in the number of disorder incidents since last summer.

At a meeting of the local scrutiny board the chief inspector praised the work of her officers, community wardens, anti-social behaviour teams and street pastor volunteers.

In previous years there had been large disturbances at party 'hotspots' such as Inverkip Beach, Tower Hill in Gourock and Pladda Fields in Port Glasgow, with reports of violence on trains and young people putting their own safety at risk.

Chief Inspector Debbie Reilly added: "The drop, in 173 fewer disorder calls, is a significant difference.

"It is down to the partnership working with community wardens, British Transport Police, the anti-social behaviour teams and the street pastors.

"Inverclyde really does have great partnership working and it gets results.

"We want to continue that great work."

Over the last few summers years large crowds of young people have been travelling on trains to get to organised open air get-togethers, refusing to pay fares, vandalising equipment and intimidating passengers.

As part of a concerted effort this summer young people were directed to other activities, with a large drop in the number of anti-social gatherings.

Chief Inspector Debbie Reilly added: "We also have to strike a balance with young people.

"Sometimes they are gathering and there is no disorder.

"It is important to speak to them.

"It is also about their own protection as well."