PARENTS of pupils at Blackwood and Oakdale Comprehensive Schools are being sent texts by police warning the youngsters to stay away from playing fields plagued by anti-social behaviour.

Police officers are taking a zero tolerance approach to youths hanging around the Croespenmaen playing fields and acting in an antisocial manner during the summer holidays.

The text messages are part of an initiative to remind them that the playing field is a ‘no drinking zone’ and also warns parents of the zero tolerance approach.

Concerns of anti-social behaviour have been raised by residents in the area and reports include problems in the area of youths drinking in public places, gathering outside shops and causing a nuisance.

Local councillor, Keith Lloyd welcomed the initiative.

“Anything to deter antisocial behaviour is good,” he said.

“It has been a major problem for residents living near to the fields as they have had verbal abuse, damage to their fencing and seen youths congregating there at night,” he added.

Crumlin ward officer, PC Clare Hoare said: “We want to remind people that officers will take strong enforcement action to tackle this behaviour in Risca, in particular using powers to remove persons under 16 to a place of safety.”