A bid to tackle youth disorder around stations and on trains on the Wemyss Bay line is underway this summer.

Dedicated police patrols to break up gatherings of young people before they try to board trains have been underway over the past two weekends and will continue.

ScotRail Alliance’s Safety chief David Lister said: “We expect all of our customers and staff to be able to access our services safely and without being pestered by antisocial behaviour around stations or on trains.

"We are all working hard to deliver the best railway Scotland’s ever had and stamping down on this antisocial behaviour is an important part of that endeavour.”

Inspector Brian McAleese from British Transport Police said: “It is encouraging to see that in recent weeks, antisocial behaviour on trains and at stations has reduced. However, we understand there is concern in the community and we remain determined to ensure the railway continues to be a safe and pleasant environment for passengers.

Police Scotland’s Sergeant Laura Stewart said: “Unfortunately over the last few months, large groups of youths are gathering in certain areas across Inverclyde with many of them using the railway as a means of getting about,” she said.

“The safety of young people, together with the prevention of antisocial behaviour which the minority seem intent on causing, is a priority for Police Scotland.”

The ScotRail Alliance has been working with Police Scotland, the British Transport Police and Inverclyde Council in the initiative.