RESIDENTS of a Valleys estate are fighting back against anti-social behaviour in the area.

People living on the Penllwyn estate in Pontllanfraith are now working with Blackwood police to tackle the problems.

They have also just set up a residents' association, a committee has been elected, and they are hoping to have a family centre with homework and computer clubs for children on the estate in the future.

Derek Potter, warden of St Mary's Church, who has lived in Penllwyn for 40 years, said there are problems with vandalism and graffiti.

"Panes of glass have been smashed in the church windows and guttering has been pulled off the roof," he told the Argus.

"And you can't leave the bins outside, or somebody takes them and burns them."

He said that youths have also thrown stones at his windows at home.

Another resident, Colleen Watkins, added there is nowhere for youngsters to go on the estate, and that the nearest playground is too far away for young children to go on their own.

Pontllanfraith councillor Malcolm Pritchard said a small minority of people were responsible for the anti-social behaviour.

"We have had reports of people running over roofs and other unsociable behaviour, which is frightening for older people on the estate," he said.

WPC Sandra Evans, crime and disorder reduction officer for Blackwood, said an area officer has recently been allocated to Penllwyn.

"We are working with residents to identify the youths," she said.

WPC Evans added they would also work to encourage youngsters to become involved with the association.

Yesterday Islwyn AM Brian Hancock and the Assembly's Plaid Cymru leader, Ieuan Wyn Jones, were at St Mary's church hall on the estate to meet residents and talk about their concerns.

Mr Wyn Jones said: "We are trying to tackle serious issues and talk to people about their experiences so we can help them.

"Crime is the second most important issue for people after health."

And Mr Hancock added it was about working with communities to provide a safer environment. He also said young people should be involved with the residents' association and encouraged to talk about what they wanted for the estate.

The new community centre for Penllwyn is due to be completed and ready for use in the New Year.