Police work in community wins award

POLICE officers in the Lothians have been presented with a national award for their work in the community, which included targeting antisocial behaviour among youths.

The community engagement prize at the National Community Safety Awards was presented to the Dalkeith sector community policing team in Midlothian.

Sergeant Scott Meechan was presented with the award by Safer Communities Minister Fergus Ewing at the ceremony at the Thistle Hotel in Glasgow.

As well as being honoured for their community newsletter and local radio slot, judges were impressed by the success of various antisocial behaviour initiatives in Pathhead.

Sgt Meechan and his team identified the village hall as key to improving community spirit, and the officers were able to arrange its renovation.

Since the renovated village hall reopened, police recorded a dramatic decrease in the number of antisocial behaviour and youth calls being received.

Sgt Meechan said: "I am delighted to receive this award which recognises the hard work and effort of everyone involved in this project."