First Minister Jack McConnell visited Greenock and talked to the Tele about Ferguson Marine, Morton and anti-social behaviour, according to our 2006 archives. 

He went to one of the most deprived areas in the east end and heard about break-ins, fires and teenagers hanging about.

Mr McConnell got an insight into east end living from dad-of-three Tommy Smith, after meeting with shopkeepers in Sinclair Street.

(Image: Newsquest)

He said at the time: “I told him about the vandalism and neds starting fires in the park all the time.

“My wife is disabled, and I’m frightened to go to sleep at night for fear what’s going to happen next.

“My car used to get broken into on a regular basis, but it’s not so bad now because of the extra police in the area.

“I felt the First Minister was listening to what I had to say and talked about trying to get more resources in the area.”

Mr McConnell then had a private meeting with community representatives in Craigend Resource Centre.

But another local man, Tommy Murray, wasn’t impressed by the visit.

(Image: Newsquest)

Tommy, 45, who lives in Auchendarroch Street, said: “It’s just a publicity stunt.

“He’s just rattling out a few soundbites and if he’s in Drumchapel or Easterhouse tomorrow, he’ll say the same things.

“We need more police and more facilities for young people — there’s about 30 to 40 of them hanging about on a Friday night.”

Mr McConnell also paid a visit to the Tele’s office and pledged his support for Ferguson Marine.

Despite growing up in Arran, he revealed that he went on holiday to his aunt and uncle’s farm in Wemyss Bay and helped deliver milk.

He told the Telegraph supported Morton in his youth and used to get the ferry across to watch the games.

He added: “It was during the 60s and 70s when all the Scandinavians were in the team and it was an exciting period.”