GWENT Police is warning householders to clearly mark their wheelie bins after nine were stolen in the space of two weeks.

Last weekend two wheelie bins were stolen from Tyn Y Wern Terrace in Trethomas, after a spate of wheelie bin thefts in the Bedwas area in the last two weeks.

Crime and Disorder Reduction Officer, PC Stuart Lewis, said: “Over the last two weeks we have now seen nine thefts of bins in the area. Five last week, and already four this week.

“I want to raise awareness amongst the local residents, so hopefully they will follow these simple crime prevention tips and help prevent any further thefts in the area.”

* Add your house number and post code to your bin using paint or marker

* Keep your bin in your back garden or out of sight in a garage or shed

* Try and retrieve your bin as soon as possible after the council have collected

* Try to secure your bin by using a chain or bike lock and attaching it in your garage or to your property

Officers are currently looking for your support and help by reporting any suspicious activity immediately by calling Gwent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.