VANDALS who are damaging speed cameras throughout Gwent are putting lives in the area at risk, the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership have warned.

Since May 2008, three cameras have been vandalised throughout Gwent including an incident involving the speed camera installed on the M4 westbound roadworks at Tredegar Park.

The camera was set on fire by vandals at the beginning of this month.

Now the body is warning lives are being put in danger as the cameras are installed to reduce accidents and protect roadworkers.

Manager of the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership, Jim Moore said that those responsible for the damage have a total disregard for other people’s safety.

He said: “People seem to think we can place cameras where they can make the most money. This is not true.

"We can only put cameras where people have been killed or seriously injured, at sites of community concern or at roadworks.”

Mr Moore added that the cameras were proven to save lives and reduce the severity of collisions. They also help protect roadworkers such as those currently working on the widening of the M4.

He said: “Each time a camera is vandalised and put out of action all road users are put at risk.

“This is a criminal offence and Gwent Police are actively pursuing those responsible.”

Gwent Police received the call reporting that the speed camera at Tredegar Park was on fire on May 9 at 10.30pm.

The incident is being treated as suspicious and any witnesses are asked to contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.