CHIEF Superintendent Ian Johnston, of Gwent Police, has vowed to keep open small police stations and put more bobbies on the beat in the Valleys.

Chief Superintendent Joh-nston made the pledges when he addressed councillors at Blaenau Gwent borough council.

There had been fears that policing would deteriorate in Blaenau Gwent when C and E divisions merged earlier this year.

However, by making cutbacks in administration roles that were going to be duplicated after the merger, Gwent Police have promised more money will be ploughed into tackling crime.

Crime and disorder reduction officers have been posted at stations throughout the Valleys, and 12 community support officers will be appointed in a new government initiative.

Blaenau Gwent council leader John Hopkins said: "We are keen to work in partnership and we are going to appoint a community safety officer soon to work with the police and a host of organisations to help to make Blaenau Gwent an even safer place to live and work."