POLICE are stepping up patrols in part of Cwmbran after complaints over nuisance crimes in the area.

Sergeant Lyndon John, of Cwmbran police, told the Argus officers were aware of a rise in complaints over vandalism and nuisance crime in the Tolpath area.

He said more beat patrols would be operating in the area - but added locals had to help police stop the problems: "One of our policies is to target nuisance and disorder behaviour that's having a detrimental affect on people's lives.

"We would urge people with information to come forward so we can stamp out this type of behaviour and improve the quality of life for residents in the community."

Among locals who say they are affected is John Bettridge, (pictured) 71, who says his home is being pelted with mud and stones.

The retired truck driver claims youngsters are to blame for the incidents. He said: "It's causing me upset. I am a disabled pensioner and cannot put up with it. There are a few children doing this. My life is being made a misery.

"I have got in touch with the police and the council. But they say they have to catch the culprits at it to do anything."

Mr Bettridge said he often watches television in his bedroom, which looks onto the public footpath, but added he had to take precautions in the early evening if he wanted to watch any programmes in peace.

He said: "I have to close the curtains tight to make sure they cannot see my light outside or they start throwing things at my window."