A NUMBER of shops in Troon have been broken into or targeted by vandals over the past couple of months.

One man has been arrested and reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to five alleged break-ins throughout the town.

On April 19, it is understood he broke into two properties on Portland Street where items were taken.

It is claimed he was also found in circumstances where it can be inferred he was planning to commit theft on Braden Road.

On Central Avenue in Troon, on June 21, the male was understood to have stolen a three-figure sum of cash from Leon’s Fish and Chip shop.

Then on June 22, at Barassie Street, the Troon Times understands that he is alleged to have stolen  high value watches and money valued at more than £1,000.

The man was also charged for allegedly being in possession of heroin and valium.

As well as being a hotspot for break-ins, Troon has been plagued by vandals in recent months.

One boutique, The Herbary, was a victim of  vandalism after its front windows were smashed.

On the shop’s Facebook page, a statement revealed: “Last night our shop was vandalised.

“Please bear with us whilst we get the damage repaired and the displays back in order - we are open as normal.

“Thank you to all our lovely customers for their patience today.”

Troon residents have expressed their concerns over the recent break-ins around the town.

One local said: “I am shocked at these incidents, as Troon is a community town and hardly falls to thefts and vandalism.

“You can only hope that these incidents are one off because, genuinely, it is a lovely place to live in but unfortunately people seem to be causing unnecessary mayhem.

“Hopefully it will all be resolved and things will go back to normal.”