POLICE are reassuring residents of a Newport community they will tackle young thugs terrorising the area.

Yesterday the Argus revealed that Tracey Betts, (pictured) of Oliphant Circle, Malpas, was driven out of her home by a gang of yobs who have terrorised the estate for months. Inspector Paul Griffiths, of Bettws police, said they will do everything they can to stop another family being forced out of their home.

He added: "Following all the contacts we have had with the community and the recent community forum we were aware of a growing problem around the Oliphant Circle area and the emotion of the community was becoming ever more apparent.

"There has been a number of offences that have been brought to our attention regarding nuisance behaviour and crimes committed by a small number of youths. Where the opportunity has presented itself we have arrested and dealt with the youths."

He added: "Because of the gravity of the problem the police have taken severe measures for juveniles and following them being charged have denied bail.

"This was to prevent further offences and to offer some protection to the community. "However, our attempts to remand one of the ring-leaders at magistrates court have failed, much to our frustration."

One neighbour of Mrs Betts told the Argus: "We can't go outside our front door at night because we fear they are going to jump out of a bush at you or cause you general grief and mischief."

She believes the solution to the problem is to evict the problem youngsters and split them up. She said: "The council keep telling me it is just a bit closer but what use is that when we fear for our kids going out to play in the street?"

Police acknowledge there is a growing problem of nuisance behaviour in the area, and they are collecting the names and addresses of problem youths, to highlight the issue with their families.

Inspector Griffiths said: "The behaviour of these youths is not acceptable to the community or the police.

"We will deal promptly and effectively with all complaints regarding this sort of behaviour and any form of intimidation as we have to play a key part in supporting the community in taking a stance against this mindless nuisance and criminal behaviour."