Gladhouse Reservoir: Midlothian police step up patrols to combat 'life-threatening' anti-social behaviour at beauty spot

Wild campers descended on Gladhouse Reservoir in Midlothian last weekend, despite the ongoing lockdown.

Police said they have been made aware of an increase in anti-social behaviour at the popular beauty spot, and have warned it is “unacceptable” and “puts lives at risk”.

Police Sergeant Michele Lindsay, of Penicuik Police Station, said: “Last weekend, we were made aware of people wild camping at the reservoir, which included lighting fires, some of which were left unattended.

"As well as having the potential to cause damage, it is dangerous and puts lives at risk."

“This behaviour is unacceptable. People should not leave their homes unless for essential purposes. The vast majority of people are complying with the legal restrictions on outdoor gatherings to prevent coronavirus from spreading.

“Anti-social behaviour is always taken seriously and where it is clear to us that there is a particular issue in an area, we will devote the appropriate resources and work alongside our partners to try to tackle the problem.

“Anyone with any concerns, should contact Police Scotland on 101."

Scottish Water said: “There should be no one camping at Gladhouse Reservoir or lighting open fires in the woodland areas around this site. We ask everyone to respect our reservoirs and respect the Covid guidance.”

Warning over anti-social behaviour at Gladhouse Reservoir in Midlothian.

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