FOR months, residents of a Valleys community say they have suffered a campaign of vandalism and thefts at the hands of some local youngsters.

On Monday the Argus revealed how Cross Keys residents were living in fear.

Now the fightback has begun - and young offenders picked up as part of a police and council crackdown locally could find themselves banned from some areas of the community by being placed under an anti- social behaviour order (ASBO).

Their names would also be made public, and residents can report breaches of the order to police and the council.

More bobbies will be patrolling the area, and youths causing nuisance or distress to locals will end up in court.

PC Andy Harris is the crime and disorder reduction officer for the area.

He told the Argus: "The behaviour of a minority of young people is affecting the quality of life for the residents of Cross Keys. This behaviour will not be tolerated.

"Working with our partners and the public we will put a stop to it. We are hoping that the threat of having an ASBO will deter people from causing problems."

Gwent's assistant chief constable, Bill Horne, said: "We have sought and seen anti-social behaviour orders in the past and will do so in the future as one of a range of options to respond to such behaviour. Changes in legislation will assist in this regard as it allows more flexibility in their use."

Police and councils in Gwent have already had some success with ASBOs.

In January 2001 Torfaen became the first council in Wales to take an order, for persistent tearaway Anthony Jones.

The 15-year-old was threatening staff at a school where he was excluded, and causing problems in Cwmbran.

The council's community safety officer, David Jeremiah, said: "We've seen 100 per cent success."

Torfaen have considered setting orders against 28 cases but have actually only needed to set two.

And Peter Wainfur, 16, and his brother, Mark, 13, were made subject to Newport's first anti-social behaviour order last February, after magistrates heard how they made the lives of residents on Somerton estate a misery.

Risca police are also working with Caerphilly council in two other ways to end the problems.

A Park Watch scheme has been set up for Waun Fawr Park, where residents report any problems. The authorities are also looking a locations to build a games area or skateboard facility to give youngsters somewhere to go.

* In the picture: PCs Dylan Jones and Sarah Borley on patrol in Cross Keys.