Boozed up kids have been warned to stay on their best behaviour this Easter following a spate of illegal gatherings across Ayrshire.

Police say they have taken the “unusual step” of writing directly to parents amid concerns over a rise in anti-social incidents.

In the latest flashpoint, a police car came under attack and was vandalised by thugs in Troon last weekend.

It’s understood the vehicle’s front window was smashed and the wing mirrors ripped off.

More than 100 youths are understood to have gathered in the town with social media being used to organise large scale meets.

Now, in a letter to parents, Chief Inspector Brian Anderson has said: “Disappointingly, in recent weeks young people have been found congregating in parks, golf courses, beaches and school grounds.

“Many of the young people are in possession of and/or under the influence of alcohol.

“This puts young people at clear risk.

“We have reports of young people fighting, damaging property, creating a noise nuisance, fire setting, urinating in public and leaving empty bottles/cans and other litter at the locations above.

“Last weekend a police vehicle was damaged by young people and this has had to be removed from service until repairs can be carried out.