A NEW gate is being put up at Blackwood showfield to try to stop anti-social behaviour there.

Councillors say it will help ensure that events like the popular Bedwellty Show pass without problems.

There has previously been anti-social behaviour in the field, both around the time of the show and during the rest of the year.

Up to 30 or 40 cars can gather in the field at night, with groups of youngsters driving in, playing loud music and drinking late into the night.

And show organisers have reported problems with tents being ripped. The new "crocodile gate" cost £15,000 and was paid for by Caerphilly council.

Councillor Leon Gardiner said: "We've been fighting for this for a few years now.

"The gate will be open during the day when there will an attendant to let people in and out.

"After a certain time the attendants will go home.

"The direction of the crocodile teeth on the gate floor will mean vehicles can get in but not out again."

He added clubs and societies using the pavilion will have their own key.

Councillor Kevin Etheridge said: "The gate is long over-due. We've been fighting for it for years.

"The boy-racer problem up there is significant.

"Last year I had a meeting with around 50 of them up in the field.

"It was actually quite constructive but the problem hasn't gone away and I'm pleased the gate has gone in."

Gronwin James has been involved with the Bedwellty Show for many years.

He said: "In the week running up to the show we've had some problems with tents being ripped.

"The new gate should help with that."

Robert Davies, the show yard director, said: "We don't have problems during the event, it's before and after when we're putting things up or taking them down.

"It will be a relief to have full-time security."