ONE of Gwent's new police community support officers has left his post after just a month in the job.

Daniel Jones, 21, left the force, saying did not feel satisfied in the post just weeks after completing his training.

Mr Jones and former colleague Sue Wigmore started their jobs as PCSOs in January and had earned strong praise from Chepstow police officers.

PC Tony O'Connor called their work in crime prevention and intelligence gathering "crucial".

Mr Jones told the Argus two weeks ago: "It's our presence that makes us feel we're doing a good job and winning the trust of locals.

"We're told by people every day how nice it is to see us on the streets." Mr Jones has now found employment as an accountant with a bank in Bristol.

He said his career move offers him more money and the opportunity to use his Welsh language skills.

Inspector Bob Worrall, of Chepstow Police, said: "It is unfortunate when any staff decide to leave, PCSOs are such a valuable asset. It will take time to get a replacement in."

Inspector Worrall said the delay of a replacement would be for as long as it takes to fill a five-week training course with new applicants.

PCSOs have been heralded as an effective way to introduce a more visible police presence on Gwent's streets.

They have powers to issue parking tickets, confiscate alcohol and tobacco from under-age youths and detain people until the arrival of police for up to 30 minutes.

Sergeant Tom Andrews, of Police Reform, is responsible for training Gwent applicants and says three PCSOs have left the force in the 12 months since the scheme was introduced.