Camping and alcohol ban for loch banks

Camping is to be banned on the east banks of Loch Lomond in an effort to crack down on anti- social behaviour, the Scottish Government said yesterday.

A public drinking ban is also set to be introduced in the area in an effort to deal with alcohol-fuelled problems with littering and irresponsible fires.

The plan for the camping ban by the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority was endorsed yesterday by the government, which also gave permission for Stirling Council to impose a ban on public drinking.

"Public drinking is often a nuisance," justice secretary Kenny MacAskill said.

The measures come into force on 1 June and camping offenders face a 500 fine.