Prestwick schoolkids go on the rampage

May 20 2011 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

SCHOOLKIDS in balaclavas went on the rampage as they celebrated their last day of classes.

Sixth year pupils at Prestwick Academy caused chaos in the town’s streets with a series of anti-social stunts.

Stunned drivers dived for cover as their cars were targeted by yobs.

And a heavy police presence was called in to stop trouble in Alexandra Avenue near the school.

Some youngsters were also found to be under the influence of alcohol during the incident last Wednesday lunchtime.

One resident told the Post: “It was like a mini riot with kids charging around everywhere in masks.

“They were damaging cars with flour, eggs and water bombs and squirting red goo all over the place.

“They were also playing chicken with the cars and opening their doors when the cars stopped.

“When the drivers got out to close doors they were getting pelted with all sorts of stuff – it was unbelievable.

“You expect children to celebrate their last ever day of school and there’s no problem with that.

“But this was completely different and went way beyond anything you could call hi-jinx.

“It was a genuinely scary scene for a while and the public shouldn’t have to put up with that kind of thing.”

Police confirmed they are also investigating the alleged assault of a 14-year-old pupil in the town’s Main Street, which happened shortly after the rammy.

Brian McInroy, head of schools for South Ayrshire Council, condemned the behaviour of the troublemakers.

He said: “The majority of our pupils who were celebrating the start of their examination leave did so in an appropriate way, which caused no disruption to other pupils, staff or the public.

“Although full of high spirits they mostly had fun in a safe and enjoyable way.

“I deeply regret that a small minority of pupils decided to act inappropriately and caused disruption to members of the public.”