THERE is no denying anti-social behaviour is a problem in society today.

Figures obtained by the Argus show there were more than 59,000 calls to Gwent Police in little more than two years complaining about incidents – the equivalent of about 75 calls a day.

Some anti-social activities can be seen as high spirits or rowdiness, others as downright criminal, but none is acceptable to most members of society and dealing with the problem is a drain on the resources of police and other agencies.

More serious incidents should be dealt with strongly, and sanctions now exist to allow more action to be taken against persistent offenders, but in the case of youngsters, good role models and nipping any real problems in the bud remain important to prevent natural teenage rebellion from getting out of hand.

For generations the line that there is nothing for youngsters to do has been heard, but not only is it no excuse for engaging in anti-social behaviour, it is simply not true.

There are many schemes aimed at disaffected youngsters and many sporting clubs crying out for the energy exhibited by some of the people causing problems. Perhaps they could be better publicised, but they are out there and readily available to those who look.

And for every problem youngster, there are many more who cause little or no trouble and are a credit to their family and community.