STAFF working at a beauty spot usually popular with Dumbarton and the Vale daytrippers suffered "verbal and physical abuse" over parking spaces this Easter weekend.

Council workers were targeted at Balmaha over "frustration" regarding parking after Covid-19 restrictions changed from 'Stay Home' to 'Stay Local'.

The guidance, which changed on Friday, still prohibits non-essential travel to outside of your local authority. 

The abuse also occurred at Ben A'an, a statement issued by Stirling Council confirmed.  

It read: "We've unfortunately had reports of verbal and physical abuse directed towards council staff working at the clearways at Ben A'an and at Balmaha.

"While there may be frustration for some regarding parking at some of our beauty spots as lockdown restrictions are being eased, we will not tolerate abuse of staff.

"Our teams are there to keep communities safe and do an important job. Please be considerate of those who are working hard to keep the public safe and #StayLocal."

The team at Loch Lomond and The Trossachs added: ""Really disappointing to hear this has been happening to Stirling Council staff just doing their jobs.

"Everyone wants to enjoy the outdoors but it’s important to do so responsibly, be respectful of others & to #staylocal."