Park-goers have largely backed the increased police presence at Kelvingrove Park, calling it a “positive step” in preventing binge drinking, littering and anti-social behaviour.

Glasgow City Council announced on July, 29 that police were to be on the gates along the park with a warning that no alcohol would be allowed inside.

Anyone found with booze at the gates would be asked to leave or place their booze in specially provided bins.

Kelvingrove Park was  packed in many areas today as the city got some rays of sun in 27-degree weather.

With a belter of a day forecast for Friday, the parks are open to everyone ☀️ but remember - No alcohol is allowed in...

Posted by Glasgow City Council on Wednesday, 29 July 2020

We reported earlier that two people have already been charged for breaking drinking the rules at the green space.

READ MORE: Two charged as Glasgow cops issue booze ban reminder in Kelvingrove Park

Glasgow Times: Signs on every park entranceSigns on every park entrance

Suzie Nelson, a 29-year-old parent, who was with her child, supported the increased police presence.

She said: “I think it’s been really good. It’s a really positive change, it feels more child friendly. Even though there’s more police coming around it feels like it’s stopped binge drinkers coming here.

“I’ve certainly seen fewer drunk people around, especially younger teenagers.

“I think it was natural when you saw a lot of restaurants offering pints-to-go and you saw everyone walking around with their plastic pints.

“Everyone was reeking of drink but you’re thinking it’s 1 in the afternoon and you’re walking your baby and going by a crowd of teenager girls and guys drinking it just wasn’t a nice atmosphere. I like seeing police.”

Daniella Alvarenga, 36, who also had her child with her, said: “It’s the litter they leave behind too. For security, considering Covid-19 and social distancing it’s been a bother in the park because people were not respecting the rules when I was walking with the pram.

Glasgow Times: Police could be seen on every park entrancePolice could be seen on every park entrance

Daniella wasn’t the only one appreciating the other benefits of police patrolling the park. As well as keeping binge drinkers at bay, Linda, 60 thought it helped keep people socially-distanced too – a problem highlighted this June.

Linda said: “I’m quite happy with the police walking about. I think it will keep some social distancing. It's still pleasant walking around. 

“And I think it’s good for young families. If you’re going to bring young children out, you want them to be safe don’t you?”

Dylan, 23, said: “The issue I think that’s quite bad is litter and the anti-social side to it. If the council are trying to control the litter and stop people getting hurt then definitely I think it’s fair.”

READ MORE: Police NO booze in Kelvingrove Park this weekend

Katie, 74, agreed, saying: “It is actually quite a nice feeling like there’s a control over the situation. I think it’s a good thing and it’s about time.”

For Louise, 24, the issue of drinking in Glasgow doesn’t make sense because people in Edinburgh can drink freely outdoors.

Although, She said if people are going to cause trouble then the police should be there.

She said: “I wouldn’t say I feel more or less safe. But if the council don’t want to change their opinions on letting people drink on the streets then they’re within their rights on cracking down on it.

“I’m not a big drinker so it doesn’t bother me at all. But it is very hard to prove people are drinking unless you have a bottle labelled “vodka”.

“You can drink it with a juice can or whatever. It’s quite hard for police to prove anything”

Another park-goer said: “If it keeps everyone safe then I guess it's good.”