THE number of crimes in Helensburgh and the surrounding areas has gone down during the last year, according to police, despite fears over a number of serious incidents in recent weeks.

Helensburgh police have reassured residents that the area remains a “safe place to visit and live,” after MSPs Jackie Baillie and Maurice Corry raised concerns over local policing.

However, Paul Robertson, chief inspector and area commander for Helensburgh, has refuted the claims and says there is no cause for concern.

He said: “Whilst like all areas, we do have instances of crime and disorder, I would like to reassure our communities in Helensburgh and outlying areas that the instances of serious violent crime are few in number and such incidents have actually reduced during the past year.

“Myself and the local policing team remain fully committed to providing a first class policing service to the area, ensuring it remains a safe place to visit and live.”

Last week, the Advertiser reported that a 14-year-old boy had been charged in connection with an alleged assault and weapons offences in Craigendoran.

We also reported on a 15-year-old boy who was attacked in Hermitage Park, vandalism within the park grounds, and a serious assault at a house in the Kirkmichael area of Helensburgh, while a man was reported to have wielded a knife at Hallowe’en revellers in Rosneath and flat windows in the village were smashed on Bonfire Night.

Chief Inspector Robertson added: “All of our officers maintain close links with local residents and relevant community groups.

“I can assure them such matters will be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators reported and put before the courts whenever required.”

Ms Baillie said: “I know that reports of this nature will cause concern for residents, but I am sure that the police will be doing everything they can to reduce the risk to the general public.

“Police forces up and down the country are working hard to ensure the safety of the public, but their resources are dwindling and they are being stretched to breaking point.”

Mr Corry said: “I’m saddened to learn that yet more violent crime has been occurring in and around Helensburgh. In the past week we have learnt of some alarming incidents.

“Not every crime can be prevented, but I continue to stress that if we had more efficient community policing, we would have continuity, presence to deter crime, better local intelligence and overall more trust and confidence in our police force.

“I hope to see an end to this behavioural trend in our local communities and will once again raise these issues in Parliament.”

Norman Muir, convener of Helensburgh Community Council, does not believe the current trend is indicative of a pervasive problem.

He said: “We have the police along to our monthly meetings and we are brought up to speed on local crime issues.

“The pattern of crime does not indicate a crime wave in the area but the issues of vandalism and petty breaches of the peace are a concern.

“We have raised them with the police and they will be reporting in depth on the current trends and more importantly current procedures for dealing with such crime at our November meeting.

“The important thing is to address the problem and initiate corrective action where appropriate.”