EIGHT teenagers were arrested in Tillicoultry over the weekend after a mass brawl was arranged by a gang of youths from Stirling.

Police say the youngsters — aged between 13 and 17 — were intent on confronting Tilly youths in the street on Friday evening.

The news of their ‘visit’ got out and anxious parents soon contacted Clackmannanshire police with their concerns.

A number of additional patrols were arranged in Tillicoultry along with neighbouring Menstrie and Alva as officers looked to pre-empt any violence outbursts.

By the end of the evening, eight teens were detained and all will now face ‘legal proceedings’.

There were also a number of reports of cars being seriously vandalised in and around the town following the violence.

Chief Inspector Stephen Sneddon, area commander for Clackmannanshire, warned all those planning similar street fights that his officers take a zero-tolerance approach to violence and disorder.

He said: “A group of youths from the Stirling area visited Tillicoultry on Friday evening intent on participating in a pre-arranged fight with local youths.

“Officers were called by worried residents and we quickly dealt with the situation, which saw a number of young people apprehended.

“I am very clear on this issue - zero tolerance will be shown to those who involve themselves in such acts, as such behaviour can have long-term consequences.” Mr Sneddon issued a further caution to troubled youngsters of the dangers of adolescent criminality and its impact on providing for a positive future.

He added: “I would appeal to these young people, to their parents and guardians, to remember that getting into trouble at this stage in their lives, when many are on the cusp of applying for further education or University, or looking to get on the employment ladder, can have a devastating effect on their future.

“I would discourage anyone from becoming involved in such behaviour. Any criminal conviction could blight their lives in a number of ways over many years, ranging from seeking employment to being allowed to travel to some countries abroad, or being able to obtain credit or insurance cover.

“It is essential that young people understand that what might seem like a good idea could leave them regretting it and failing to reach their full potential for many years in the future.

“So my message is clear - behave and build yourself a positive future through your own industry and efforts, criminal convictions are unlikely to assist this.”