RISCA is set to benefit from an operation to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour this week.

Gwent Police, Caerphilly council, Probation Service, Keep Wales Tidy, the Youth Offending Service and the Forestry Commission will work alongside the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership as part of the CANDO initiative.

Previously CANDO, which stands for Community and Neighbourhood Directed Operations, was tried in Blackwood and Pontllanfraith.

The initiative involves more high visibility patrols of Police and council wardens throughout the town. Graffiti will be removed and littering, fly-tipping and dog fouling will also be targeted. Further CCTV will also be provided in mobile units.

Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Lyn Ackerman said: “The success of CANDO initiatives are heavily reliant on members of the local community working alongside ourselves and our partner agencies.

"The CANDO initiative allows key agencies to pool resources and expertise in a concerted effort to create safer, stronger communities across the county borough, and I am quite sure that this week’s CANDO in Risca will be no exception.”

Chief Inspector Jo Bull said, “What was clear at the public consultation meeting was the determination of the community and the willingness of partners to work together to maximise the impact for Risca.

"This week of focussed activity will enable positive changes to be made for all who live in, work in, or visit Risca.”

For further information, contact the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership on 01443 864374.