A town centre “gathering” is planned for Dalbeattie next Saturday to make information available on convicted sex offenders in the town.
The May 27 assembly at The Cross will also see leaflets given out signposting anyone affected by sexual abuse towards appropriate support.
The 2pm event follows the reported removal of two paedophiles from addresses in the town on May 3.
A new group, Protect Dalbeattie’s Children, was set up after demonstrations at the properties, which attracted a police presence.
Two houses, understood to be used for temporary accommodation, have been boarded up.
The group’s private Facebook page, created on May 5, has a current membership of 112.
One post, seen by the News, highlights a convicted repeated paedophile – who was one of the men removed.
A Dalbeattie mum with links to the group said: “A group of concerned residents, parents, grandparents and neighbours are holding a peaceful gathering on May 27 at 2pm.
“The gathering is to make the public aware of sex offenders in the area, their crimes and whereabouts.
“I don’t think anybody is giving out addresses.
“It’s about sharing information that is already publicly available and bringing that to people’s attention.
“There won’t be handouts to take home but there will be names printed on a board at The Cross.
“It’s not inciting anybody to go to their houses – it’s to make a point to the Homes4D&G and the police.
“Signposted support will be provided confidentially to those who are or have been affected by sexual abuse.
“Their mission is to keep the future of Dalbeattie’s children safe and to send a clear message to Homes4D&G that paedophiles are not welcome here, certainly not near parks and schools.”
She added: “All these people have good jobs and are good mums and good grannies.
“They are good members of the community and don’t want to cause any trouble.
“I think the gathering is a positive thing – they are keeping it very peaceful. There are lots of people in the town who have been sexually abused at some point.
“They want to signpost folk to rape and sexual abuse support groups.
“Don’t put paedophiles here – let’s help the folk who have been abused.”
Dalbeattie Community Council Chairman Robert McGoldrick urged caution.
He said: “From a community council point of view are folk attending this going to charged with hate speech?
“Has this group got the go-ahead from the police – because it will have to be policed.
“The danger is you get these hangers-on who are not there to support the group but are just there for a fight.
“They should be contacting the police and the council if they are holding a demonstration.
“Of course we don’t want anything to happen to our weans.
“But you have to watch you don’t fall foul of the law, otherwise you will be like them.”
He added: “I believe you can go to the police and request information on sexual offenders.
“They can give you that information on the understanding that you don’t divulge it.
“You don’t stick the fox in the hen house – but where do you put them?”
