POLICE in Newport were inundated with calls from people reporting bullet-shaped holes in their windows, after marbles or ball bearings were used to smash them.

Officers are now asking residents to report such incidents immediately, so they can build up a picture of where it is happening and patrol areas accordingly.

PC Debra White, crime and disorder reduction officer, said: "I want to warn the people doing this that it is not just harmless fun and if they are found they could be looking at a more serious charge than just criminal damage."

Incidents were reported at The Private Shop, on Cardiff Road, Brynglas Avenue, Dews-land Park Road, Melfort Road, Redland Street, Queens Hill, Fields Park Road, Devon Place and Melfort Gardens, among others. The majority of the incidents appear to have happened during the second weekend of August.

PC White said: "We've had lots of reports from people with what looks like a small bullet hole in their windows. It looks like either a BB gun or a slingshot and ball bearings have been used.

"I would ask anybody having this damage done to log it with us so we have an idea of where it's happening."

Anyone with information about who the offender or offenders are should contact Newport central police station on 01633 244999.