POLICE in Clackmannanshire are asking the public's help to tackle a spike in the number of vandalism incidents this year.

Officers say they are dealing with an increase in the level of incidents reported over the last few months in the Wee County.

Most acts of vandalism are said to involved youngsters throwing stones at property, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

The service has reiterated that "this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated" and are appealing for residents' support to address the issue.

Speaking on their Facebook page, a spokesperson for police in Forth Valley said: "Since the beginning of the year, police in Clackmannanshire have noticed a rise in the number of incidents relating to vandalism and especially damage to property, whereby house windows and car windscreens and windows have been smashed.

"Each and every incident has been at great expense to either the home or car owner, Clackmannanshire Council or other local Housing Association, with the cost of damage running into thousands of pounds. Money which could have been put to better use within the community.

"The majority of these crimes have been caused by local youths throwing stones at said property and Police Scotland would like to stress that this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated.

"These incidents could have potentially serious consequences and we ask that those responsible stop this immediately before someone is seriously injured (or worse).

"If you have any information with regards to any of these incidents or know the identity of those responsible, please give us a call, in complete confidence, on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.