BYLAWS prohibiting outdoor drinking around a number of lochs in the Stirling Council area are now in force.

The local authority originally decided in March to amend its regulations to stop people from consuming alcoholic beverages on the shores of Loch Voil, Loch earn, Loch Doine and the north-west area of Loch Lubnaig.

The changes have been approved by Scottish ministers and came into force on August 7.

Councillor Maureen Bennison, convener of the Public Safety Committee, said: “Bylaws prohibiting outdoor drinking have already proven to be successful in a number of local towns and villages across the Stirling Council area, as well as on the east side of Loch Lomond.

“We decided to explore amending our current bylaws to include Loch Voil, Loch Earn and the areas of Loch Lubnaig overseen by the Stirling Council following discussions with local residents.

“Thank you to all who took part in our consultations.”