TOUGH policing is winning the battle to restore order to an area of Pontypool plagued by gangs of yobs.

As the Argus reported in March, gangs of up to 50 youths were making life hell for residents in Pontnewynydd, who said it was becoming a "no go area".

The thugs were smashing windows, throwing stones at cars, fighting and vandalising property.

But now police say they are winning the battle after taking a tough line with gang leaders and increasing their presence in the area.

This month two youths known for causing problems in the area are being given interim anti-social behaviour orders.

The boys, aged 16 and 17, are described as "ringleaders" of the gangs.

PC Andy Cleaton, crime and disorder reduction officer at Pontypool police said: "We are picking away at the core with everything that we have got. We have got a lid on it that's for sure.

"It's a hot spot area that is very much in officers' minds. The gangs of youths aren't being seen any more. We have offered crime prevention advice to residents and are looking at more long term solutions."

Pontnewynydd councillor Joyce Gregory said: "It's a lot quieter here now. We have had a lot of police up here and they seem to be targeting the ringleaders. We still have a few youths hanging around but it's a definite improvement."

Snatchwood councillor Ivor Davies said: "It has quietened down a lot because the police have been putting quite a bit of pressure into the area.

"There have been more police on the streets moving them on and a few kids have had letters home to their parents. We are looking at ways to engage the youngsters."

Torfaen council's housing department and the Torfaen Community Safety Partnership are also involved in stamping out the trouble.

Head of the Community Safety Partnership Dave Jeremiah said: "We are targeting those who are leading and letters have gone home to their followers. We are determined to crack it."

The partnership plans to install more CCTV cameras. Housing officers wrote to all council tenants in the maisonettes on George Street warning them not to cause nuisance to neighbours.