Irvine residents have called for a bigger police presence on the town's beach after repeated violence involving youths.

On Sunday, June 11, a 16-year-old boy had to be taken to hospital following an alleged assault. He was later released after receiving treatment for his injuries.

Police have now launched an investigation into the incident, which took place at around 4.05pm, urging any witnesses to come forward.

And this week, they said thery were "determined to combat this type of behaviour".

As usual, glorious sunshine saw hundreds of teens arrive at the beach, some from Irvine, many from other parts of Scotland.

Now Times readers have called for more action to be taken to prevent any more disturbing incidents on the beach.

One woman wrote on our Facebook page: "My granddaughter was attacked yesterday too. She's a shy girl, not a fighter. A large group surrounded her.

"My daughter went down as she wasn't far away. She was verbal threatened - they were absolutely drunk out their skulls.

"She kept her cool becase my granddaughter was so distraught.

"Police are non existent there and one time I did see a van went round car park and straight back out.

"But if an adult defends her child, they will be charged. It is disgusting."

Anne Simpson wrote: "They need constant police presence at Asda, the railway station and halfway down Harbour Street as well as the beach."

Tracey Lewis agreed adding: "A hundred per cent, we need a police station point at the beach. Plus more things for teenagers to do in Irvine. "

XCeex XMac Keex wrote: "We went down last weekend and it was wild. I mean am all for having a good time, but my eight year old daughter was petrified due to the lassies running about steaming, shouting. Couldn't get into the toilets because of them either. We wont be back down on sunny days - not worth the hassle."

Carole Campbell said: "What a disgrace it is doon here and it’s no' even school holidays.

"Can’t sit out in ma front garden cause ma temper will break. Can’t wait for winter to come and that’s sad.

"I wouldn't let any of my grandchildren go near the beach -  sirens going everyday. This can’t go on."

David McGill wrote: "Police need to understand they need to have a permanent presence on the beach on the summer - and NAC should be pushing them to commit resources."

Paula Strain-McKeating wrote: "It’s ridiculous, us Irvine folk can’t enjoy the beach that’s on our doorstep because of all the drunken louts. Most of us stay away."

And Samantha J Butcher said: "Worst part is, the place would have been mobbed but I bet no one will bother coming forward as a witness to it and the brats will get away with it.

"The amount of people who stand by and watch children being battered now is absolutely disgusting.

"In fact most people stand by and watch everything now and do nothing about it then claim to not have seen anything.

"Hope they get whoever it was and the boy recovers from it physically and mentally."

Police said they were aware of the issues and would employ additional patrols when needed.

Inspector Cameron told the Irvine Times:  “We are alert to the recent incidents of disorder and antisocial behaviour involving young people on Ayrshire’s beaches and we are acutely aware of the disruptive effect this has on a community.

“The Safer Shores initiative is in place to ensure those living and visiting Ayrshire can do so safely, with local officers working closely with specialist police resources and partner agencies to address any emerging issues or incidents.

“Additional and dedicated patrols are deployed in the areas to carry out active patrols, positively engage with the public, and intervene and deal with any offences appropriately.

“I can also confirm that officers are briefed on any emerging issues at the beginning of every shift to ensure they are best placed to deal with concerns efficiently and effectively.

“It is worth stressing that the vast majority of young people do not come to the attention of police but we know that a minority do sometimes become involved in antisocial behaviour and their actions can have a negative impact on the lives of local residents.”

"We remain determined to combat this type of behaviour and will take appropriate action where incidents are reported and offenders are identified.”