A large police presence was visible across Kirkton last night after one of the city’s top officers moved to reassure locals on Bonfire Night.
Despite apprehension there could be further disruption, the city remained calm as darkness fell.
Several police vans and a large number of officers were seen in the area, including at Asda on Gillburn Road where they were observed speaking with shoppers.
A mobile CCTV unit was also set up at around 5pm.
There were no signs of a bonfire being built on Beauly Square, where locals have traditionally organised an unofficial display in previous years.
Residents told The Courier they were hopeful the night would pass without incident after the disruption on Monday.
Locals ‘on edge’
One local said: “People here were on edge all day.
“There was that feeling that something was going to kick off.
“A few people were saying they heard that something was planned but I didn’t hear any details.”
No official public displays were organised in the city, although crowds were spotted outside Nine Maidens pub on Laird Street.
The bar previously cancelled the event, but took to social media on Saturday to say it would still be letting fireworks off and encouraged locals to watch from home.
Families and children with sparklers were among those who were waiting for the display.
Local area commander Chief Inspector Ross Fitzgerald also issued a video message on social media to reassure locals there would be a “highly visible” police presence on Saturday night.
He said: “We’d just like to reassure local residents that we have robust plans in place which will involve you seeing a highly visible policing presence right through the weekend.
“We have been engaging with local community members throughout the week and we fully understand the fears and concerns of local residents.”
He said the force was “anxious to ensure” there is no repeat of the disorder, which saw groups allegedly hurl fireworks and bricks at police donned in riot gear.
Welcoming the increased police presence, a second local resident told The Courier: “It was actually quite reassuring to see police in Kirkton for most of the day.
“Nobody was really sure what, if anything ,was going to happen but to see police here, as they promised they would be, was really good.”
Conversation