POLICE across Helensburgh and Lomond are gearing up to keep Bonfire Night safe for families across the area.

"Operation Moonbeam" is in its sixth year responding to disorder and other offences linked to the annual November 5 celebrations.

There will be extra patrols over this weekend to minimise the impact of bonfire season and identify hot spots.

There is also an option to deploy "highly-trained public order officers" to help tackle criminal behaviour and protect emergency services.

Helensburgh and District Round Table have again organised a display will see fireworks set off from a barge in front of the Civic Centre.

The town's show starts from 4pm with street food and hot drinks before the fireworks launch from 5.30pm, visible from the pier car park.

West Dunbartonshire Council is putting on their sole display this year from Levengrove Park from 7pm to 9pm.

Operation Moonbeam is a national response with emergency crews last year being hit with an increase in attacks.

Emergency services were attacked with fireworks and projectiles. Two offices in Edinburgh were treated in hospital last year for head injuries after youths fired bricks at their vehicle.

All local divisions of Police Scotland created responses to meet the needs of challenges.

There have been school presentations in Helensburgh and Lomond alongside Scottish Fire and Rescue to highlight the real dangers of using fireworkers and the "consequences of making poor choice", said police.

Chief Inspector Kirsty Lawie, operational lead for Operation Moonbeam across Argyll and Bute and West Dunbartonshire, said: “Bonfire night is a challenging night for all emergency services and whilst we hope our communities have an enjoyable night, I urge everyone who wants to celebrate this occasion to attend an organised display.  

"If, however, you are planning your own display, please refresh your memory on the Firework Code and put your safety and the safety of others first.  “It’s vital that you help us to reduce the impact of ASB in our communities, so please contact us if you have any information or concerns.

"Alternatively, if our communities believe they have information relating to fireworks-related disorder, or anyone planning an attack on emergency services, then please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 to help us prevent such incidents occurring.”