Alcohol seized during clampdown

About 350 litres of alcohol has been seized during a clampdown on youth drinking in South Edinburgh.

The programme in July and August was in response to complaints from residents about unruly youths under the influence of alcohol in their areas.

Morningside, Bruntsfield and the Meadows were the focus of the campaign.

Known 'drinking dens' and off licences suspected of selling alcohol to underagers were patrolled by police and the City of Edinburgh Council CCTV van.

Reinforce legislation

More than 40 youths, aged between 13 and 17, were found with alcohol and letters from the police were sent home to their parents.

Eight referrals were made to HYPE, a voluntary organisation supporting young people with drug and alcohol-related problems in Edinburgh.

About 120 off licence premises were visited by Lothian and Borders Police and council licensing officers to highlight the problem and reinforce the legislation.

No off-sales premises were reported for licensing offences during this operation.

Sgt Bob Walker, of Lothian and Borders Police, said: "Young people and alcohol don't mix. Underage drinking plays a major part in anti-social behaviour and low level crime."

"I hope this initiative reinforces the message that selling alcohol to people under 18 is illegal and will not be tolerated."

BBC News