‘DRUNK as a skunk’ youths in Dunfermline posed for selfies with police moments after locals saw them start fires in and around Rex Park.

For the past few weeks, residents have been affected by youngsters who have been setting fires and hurling stones at houses.

Angela Duffy, of Old Mill Court, has had stones thrown at her windows and harassment while walking her dog at night.

She also told the Press that her neighbours had seen them later posing with police after starting a fire in the area.

Inspector Ian Flynn, of Dunfermline Police Station, said the pictures “provide young people with a positive police interaction”.

Angela, 58, said: “I had a group of as many as 15 of them surround me when I was out with the dog. I was petrified. My legs were like jelly at the time.

"They were swarming me and emerging from what seemed liked everywhere. Their whole manner was aggressive and I couldn’t get out of there quick enough.

“They’ve been causing fires and, one night, engines had to come out on two occasions. A fire crew arrived from Kirkcaldy. What would have happened if there was a house fire somewhere else while they were dealing with such trivial issues as this for heaven’s sake? This is almost a weekly occurrence, too.

“It’s just not right. I don’t understand why they’re doing it.

“Is it because they’re bored? Are they looking for attention? I just don’t know.”

Angela added that as a result of the ongoing issues, neighbours had been moving away and she admitted that she had been tempted to make the move herself.

She said: “I’m sick of ringing the police and asking what’s going on. These youngsters are drunk as a skunk the majority of the time, falling all over the place and causing bother for the people who live here. When are the police actually going to sit up and take notice of this behaviour? Is it because of how young the kids are?”

Inspector Ian Flynn said they were aware of the issues in the area and were taking steps to address matters.

He said: “I am aware of the ongoing issues in Rex Park where youths have been gathering and causing incidents of anti-social behaviour.

“As a result of this, I will have increased resources in the area and we will be taking a zero tolerance approach to any reports made to police.

“I appeal to parents to know where their children are and to press upon them the need to behave in an appropriate manner.

“As part of our commitment to community engagement, officers are happy to oblige with a selfie or two as it provides young people with a positive police interaction.”