COMMUNITY ACTION: While out and about in the ward I was approached by a very angry resident. "What are you going to do about the gang of yobs sitting on my wall every night making nuisances of themselves?"

My reply was: "What did you do about it?"

His reply: "Nothing, I don't want my windows put in."

That is exactly why this gang of yobs are sitting there. Doing nothing is not an option. If they know that people are willing to call the police and wardens and if this happens on a regular basis they end up on ASBOs or worse they soon back down.

The area under discussion has seen a huge improvement in anti-social behaviour and the subsequent quality of life for the residents concerned. This has not happened by accident. It has taken courage and determination from residents who know right from wrong. If you have a problem and are afraid to ring the police or wardens (no need to give your name) then ring the ward councillors and we will do it for you.

I also picked up a rumour that some of our cherubs already on Asbos are currently sneaking into areas they shouldn't be under cover of darkness. Again, this should not be tolerated. If they are seen in these areas the police should be told and they will be dealt with. The police can only act if they know what is happening.

COUNCILLORS' AGENDA:At the latest meetings of the four ward councillors where we compare our notebooks you might be interested in the main topics that are receiving our attention at the moment or troubling our residents.

First of all the battle against antisocial behaviour is forefront in our minds (it is pleasing that many residents appreciate the efforts and improvements being made but there is still a way to go.). We are very close to providing another major play facility and are currently in negotiations about the location. At this moment Lysaghts Park (Chem Park) is looking favourite and we are working closely will our colleague Christine Jenkins from Victoria on the issue We are also fully supporting the development of the much needed new community centre for Moorland and Broadmead We also discuss financial assistance to our community groups including sports and youth clubs by allocating grants from our neighbourhood funds.

Planning issues are a major concern . With huge housing developments, the Robert Price Builders merchants and the threat of the relocation of the bus depot to Telford street we know we have a battle on our hands. We also know we have the support of the thousands of residents who would be affected by these schemes. We are also monitoring the M4 relief road and the development of a new powerstation at Uskmouth to ensure the best possible deal for the people of Nash We are of course fully supporting the development of the Wetlands visitor centre. We appreciate the huge benefit that this will bring to our city Not just in economic terms as a visitor attraction but in the fantastic educational resource that will be available to our children and young at heart adults.

Road safety is another major issue particularly in the vicinity of our schools. We are working closely with the police to provide alternative parking near some of our schools. At the end of the day this is a difficult battle due to the determination of many parents to park as close as possible to the school gate even if this endangers other children. We and the police share the view that a serious accident is about to happen.

Flooding, fly-tipping, blocking off lanes, potholes in roads, housing repair problems, noisy neighbours, vacant buildings, our school governorships and a host of other things including the smoking ban. It all keeps us busy.

MUSIC IN THE MARKET: Saturday shoppers at Newport Market were treated to a sparkling performance by Newport Male Voice Choir and guest artist Clive Lemon.

In the perfect setting and echoing acoustics of the market gallery the choir, as usual, enjoyed themselves as much as the audience.

Immaculately turned out as always against a backdrop of Welsh flags, the choir were there to celebrate Welsh Week. Celebrate they did, and they did themselves and the city proud.

Under the enthusiastic guidance of musical director Hazel Mathews and talented accompanist Barbra Davies the choir performed two mixed sets of traditional and contemporary songs that drew a large appreciative audience of all ages.

Once again their rendition of the Robbie Williams classic, Angels, won them many new fans. It was interesting watching a group of teenage girls who had been nonchalantly listening to the choir as they enjoyed a cup of coffee. As the choir began to sing Angels they excitedly picked up their mobile phones to tell their friends that a choir was actually singing a Robbie' song. Not only that, but they were singing it well.

To see so many people enjoying themselves as they listened to one of the best male voice choirs in Wales was a sight to behold.

The singing smile' that is Clive Lemon also gave his usual excellent performance. In his own inimitable style Clive sang some of the most beautiful of Welsh ballads with a huge smile on his face that transferred quickly to the audience. He sang most of his songs without accompaniment (because as he openly admitted with a grin he had forgotten to bring the music).

Note-perfect, his huge voice rang out across the whole market hall. Clive is a huge talent and a great entertainer.

The audience not only enjoyed the concert but were encouraged to participate. Clive encouraged everyone to join him in the chorus of Calon Lan, and they did so with a passion. But the best was yet to come. The concert finished with everyone standing to sing the Welsh National Anthem.

In the Land of Song the citizens of Newport demonstrated that they are carrying the torch. It was a fitting end to a great concert.

Many people are quick to knock our city. Indeed, it does have its problems, but this concert by Newport Male Voice Choir in the magnificent setting of the Newport market gallery showed the spirit of Newport at its very best.

Something we should all be proud of and shout about.