Young people have been accused of tarnishing the good name of Portaferry after a crowd were reported to be drinking and throwing bottles at police over the weekend.
Police say many had travelled from other areas of the peninsula. And they say that Portaferry has many positive attributes to offer.
Police say the throwing of bottles is ‘completely reckless and unacceptable and potentially puts officers safety at risk.’
“Over the weekend we got a call from a concerned member of the public about 50 young people drinking alcohol and causing annoyance in the general area of Exploris. Upon our arrival we found that there was quite the crowd, the majority of whom were in good form and respectful towards Police. Not all were from the town. Many had travelled from up the Peninsula and from across the water,” said a police spokesperson.
“However there were those who decided it would be acceptable to throw bottles at our crews.”
Police say a number of young people will have their details passed onto the Youth Diversion Officer. Others were spoken to regarding drug related and public order offences. A quantity of alcohol was also seized, according to police.
And police are asking parents to be wary of what their young people are doing.
“Parents – a visit to the police station or a letter in the post from the YDO is on the horizon. For those young people whom we didn’t get the chance to speak to last night, rest assured we never forget a face.
“If you think your son or daughter could be involved, sit them down and have a good parental chat with them before they end up in a custody cell and with a criminal record.
“We should be highlighting all the positives that Portaferry has to offer – not crowds of young people tarnishing the good name of the town,” added the spokesperson.