POLICE mounted a special operation last night to crack down on rival gangs of feuding youths who are causing trouble in Ebbw Vale.

More than 20 officers took part in the operation - the first of its kind in the area - and spoke to 52 youngsters in a bid to end rivalry between youths from Ebbw Vale and Glyn Coed Comprehensive Schools.

Inspector Jon Everett, who led the action, said that in the past four months police have received more than 200 complaints from residents about fighting youths, who often clash in the civic centre, Willowstown and Glyn Coed areas.

Inspector Everett said: "No-one has been seriously hurt. But the gangs are known to carry wooden sticks and metal rods and tubes and we are concerned that it is only a matter of time before someone is. It has to stop."

Before Christmas police officers visited the schools to talk to the pupils in an effort to stop the problem and, although things did initially get better, the issue has resurfaced.

No one from the schools was available to comment. Inspector Everett said: "By swamping the area with police last night and taking the names and addresses of everyone concerned we hope to send a clear message that this kind of activity is not acceptable." No arrests were made but Inspector Everett said the operation was a reasonable success.

"We didn't have as many youths out as usual," he said. "But this is the first in a number of similar operations in this area and others. "This is a warning to parents and youngsters that we simply will not tolerate this behaviour."

The youngsters police spoke to last night were aged between 11 and 16. Their parents will now receive a letter warning them that if their child's behaviour persists they will be subject to the anti-social behaviour process.

Those found to have already had warnings will be immediately subject to the anti-social behaviour process.

Ebbw Vale councillor John Rogers said he welcomed the initiative. He said: "It is always a worry when the natural exuberance of youngsters goes over the top.

"I applaud this police initiative and hope that the letters that are now sent out to parents will now nip the problem in the bud."