A “creepy clown” has reportedly been spotted in Stirling, as the latest trend spreads across the globe.
Facebook users claim the clown was photographed in Stirling city centre while on a First Bus service.
Stirling student Louise Hynd described an encounter that took place on Sunday night at around 10pm on Back O’Hill road in the Raploch, with what could have possibly been the same clown pictured on the bus.
“At first I thought it was a kid and so I slammed on my brakes. Then I turned to look and realised it was a person (most probably male) dressed in dark clothing with a big white faced Halloween clown mask with like bright red curly hair.
“He ran out the bushes at my car and then stop at the side of the road as I passed him. In my rear view mirror I saw him run back into the bushes and lie down and then jump out at the next car that drove along the road behind me.”
Fearing for road safety, Louise phoned 101 to alert the authorities. “It could have caused a serious accident. I got such a fright,” she said.
As sightings have increased across Europe, Police Scotland released a statement over a report of a clown under a bridge in Glasgow.
“We have had a few sporadic reports of individuals dressed as clowns in some areas in Scotland.
“It is assessed that there is a current trend of similar incidents on social media, many of which have been confirmed as hoaxes and emanate from overseas.
“The reports which have been made to local police officers are being investigated and do not specifically involve threats or violence.
“However, any person seeking to cause distress and potential harm to anyone should be aware that police will take action.
“If anyone has any concerns they should report the matter to police.”
Initial creepy clown sightings were reported in the US in states like South Carolina but now the craze has hit the UK, with multiple people reporting them to the authorities and social media.
