A RESIDENT of an old people's complex had a day in police cells after a barney with a local councillor.

Roger Lawrence spent ten hours in cells at Risca police station following a bust-up with Abercarn councillor Ken James.

But the conflict was staged and the spell in the cells was sponsored so 60-year-old Mr Lawrence could raise money for the Castle Court old persons' complex in Pontywaun.

Local business and people have sponsored Mr Lawrence to the tune of £1,200.

Mr Lawrence has previously raised money for local sports clubs, the mayor's appeal, local scout groups and the Royal Gwent Hospital.

The 'arrest' was carried out by a junior PC, 11-year-old Cwmcarn Primary School pupil Jade Barnett.

Jade became involved with the sponsored event because her grandmother, Mary Tustin, also lives at Castle Court.

Mr Lawrence was released shortly after 6pm by Islwyn MP Don Touhig and Risca councillor Keith Griffiths.

Mr Lawrence said: "I wanted to do it to say 'thanks' to the residents of the complex, and to say 'thanks' to the complex because they have made me feel so welcome and been so kind to me since I moved there 14 months ago.

"They have been absolutely marvellous."

Councillor James said: "The fight started after I asked Roger why a good Valleys boy like himself isn't supporting a Valleys rugby team, rather than Newport!

"He seemed to take umbrage at that and lost his rag totally. Seriously, though, Roger is a gentleman and I fully support what he is doing."

Islwyn AM Irene James said: "Roger is doing a terrific job fundraising. This will raise around £1,200, but it is just one of many things he has done to generate cash for local causes.

"It is people like Roger that all these charities rely upon for support, and he is doing a wonderful job."