A LOCAL politician has hit out after receiving complaints about anti-social behaviour and “youths harassing” residents in East Renfrewshire.

Jackson Carlaw MSP claims that in recent weeks, several concerned residents from Maidenhill in Newton Mearns have contacted him to report the issues.

According to the locals, there were break-ins at a nursery and school grounds.

Meanwhile, public areas within the development had been set on fire and trees, bushes and shrubs were damaged.

They have also reported that youngsters have been harassing and behaving in an inappropriate manner towards them.

After being made aware of the issues, the MSP raised them with Police Scotland.

Since then, officers have confirmed that two youths have been arrested for alleged incidents in the area and Maidenhill will receive additional patrols.

Scottish Conservative MSP for Eastwood, Jackson Carlaw said: “I am deeply concerned to be made aware of reports that local residents at Maidenhill have been terrorised through unacceptable and shameful incidents.

“It is a complete disgrace that the school grounds were set on fire and behaviour of this nature in the local area must not be tolerated.

“Upon learning of the disturbances, I contacted senior local police officials to highlight the need for my constituents to be protected from intimidating and threatening behaviour.

“The police responded to confirm the actions pursued by officers and the engagement with stakeholders to support residents.

“My constituents should be able to enjoy their home lives without experiencing unacceptable incidents and it is important that all potential measures to address the anti-social behaviour at Maidenhill are considered.”