A MAJOR operation is being launched in Blackwood to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour Police and council officers will blitz the town centre over the next few weeks to crack down on yobbish behaviour, including underage drinking, car-cruising, alcohol-fuelled disorder, shoplifting and vandalism.

The operation is part of the CANDO (Community and Neighbourhood Directed Operations) initiative, which has had success in other towns in the Caerphilly council area, including Pontllanfraith.

The initiative will see Gwent Police officers and Caerphilly council wardens take to the streets in a number of operations.

It will run until October 13.

The initiative will also call on residents to become part of the campaign and report incidents, as well as other agencies tackling issues such as underage drinking.

Blackwood sergeant Ian Muirhead said the operation will reassure the public that the police and council are dealing with the issues they raise.

The initiative is being welcomed by local councillors, who say residents are suffering from anti-social behaviour.

Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix said: "For the victims it can be very serious indeed and affect their quality of life.

"I'm pleased the police are doing something about it. Working with the community is the key."

Fellow Blackwood councillor Kevin Etheridge added: "Blackwood needs to be blitzed of this anti-social menace once and for all. Residents are at their wits' end."

Both councillors said the operation must not be a short-term solution.

They are backing calls for a dispersal order to tackle young drivers who cruise up and down Blackwood High Street, particularly on Thursday nights, causing a nuisance to residents.

Caerphilly council's cabinet will consider the request at a meeting next Tuesday.

If given the go-ahead it will allow police to move on groups of drivers who gather in one place and make it an arrestable offence if they return.