PARENTS have been urged to know where their children are after reports of youths entering derelict buildings in Inverkeithing.

Police Scotland said they will step up patrols in the Fraser Avenue area while security measures are also to be increased.

The area is currently subject to redevelopment which, once completed, will see the demolition of more than 200 council flats and the creation of 189 modern homes and three new shops.

The work is being funded by Fife Council, Kingdom Housing Association and the Scottish Government and began with a £7.9 million first phase of 53 homes which tenants were able to move into last year.

Fife Council's lead officer for area regeneration, Deborah Stevens, said there had been a recent spate of break-ins at the empty blocks in Fraser Avenue. "We are putting increased security measures in place, especially at those blocks where we still have residents," she said.

"Local police and our safer communities team are increasing patrols of the area. If you see anyone at the flats who shouldn't be there, please call Police Scotland on 101."

A Police Scotland spokesperson added: "We received a report of youths entering a derelict building on Fraser Avenue, Inverkeithing, on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. Officers attended and nobody was charged. Police have increased patrols around the area.

"Empty and derelict buildings can be hazardous environments and children place themselves at risk if they enter these buildings. We ask parents and carers to be aware of where their children are, who they are with and what they are doing, so as to ensure their safety."