A CAMPAIGN to tackle vandalism and under-age drinking, mounted by Inverness police is proving highly successful.

Community Policeman Norman Macleod told News & Views that over the couple of weeks since it was launched the number of calls to the police station complaining of vandals' activities were "definitely down".

"We don't have any figures yet," said PC Macleod, "but the Control Room is definitely quieter."

The campaign was timed to coincide with the schools' Easter holidays and the lighter nights. "It is proving so successful, that it is likely that it will be continued over the summer."

The campaign which involves six officers being totally dedicated to carrying out foot patrols – some in uniform, others in plain clothes – is being run not only in Merkinch but also in Dalneigh and Kinmylies and other parts of Inverness affected by vandalism.

Inverness Chief Inspector Bruce Duncan said, "To make a real difference we have to work together with communities. We need the public's help. If they have information they should let us know. Drinking and vandalism go hand in hand and it causes a lot of damage."

The Police can be contacted on 715555 or via the confidential line 720367. lThe Community Beat Department in Burnett Road is being reorganised. It is now to operate completely separately from normal Operational work. "Youth work and 'problem-solving' policing is high on our list of priorities," says PC Macleod, "and this includes domestic problems."