TRADERS in a vandalism-hit Gwent town are welcoming an increased police presence.

Shop owners in Blaenavon threatened to leave the book town last month after shop windows were smashed during regular bouts of trouble at weekends.

Town councillor Brian Whitcombe met police last week following a fiery meeting between traders and Inspector Jo Bull from Pontypool police.

Assurances were made that the visible police presence in the town would be increased and communication between officers and traders would be improved. Residents had complained about the difficulty in contacting Pontypool police.

He said: "There has definitely been an increased police presence, which I welcome.

"Something certainly needed to be done and they are trying. We are pleased with the police reaction but how long will it go on for? Let's hope it continues."

Mr Whitcombe now wants to see CCTV set up in the town, which he hopes would cut anti-social behaviour further.

"We have kept pushing for CCTV and the police have said it acts as a deterrent and can provide good evidence. The council is looking at it again and I'm more hopeful than I have been for some time."

Barbara Lewis, head of the traders and tourism association, said: "It's still early days but I have noticed more police about."

Chris Rowles from Blaenavon post office added: "We have got what we were asking for and it is no surprise it appears to be working.

"We understand it comes down to funding but it is just that visible presence we need."

A Torfaen council spokesman said the cost of permanent CCTV is high with the continued costs of staff to monitor it.

He added: "Covert CCTV is another matter. We have used this in the past, are currently using it, and will continue to use it in Blaenavon.

"It can monitor vandalism, criminal activity and anti-social behaviour. "This has been effective but it can only be used under strict rules. "We can't site a covert camera anywhere."