Seven arrested after town centre brawls (From Free Press Series)

Seven arrested after town centre brawls

SEVEN people were arrested in Caldicot after two nights of fighting in the town centre during the weekend.

And local councillors are blaming easy access to drinks and an escalating alcohol problem on the recent troubles.

Police officers were called to attended to youths fighting in the Cross area of the town on Friday and Saturday nights.

One shop window had been smashed, and one perpetrator stole a black water-proof jacket with a strobe police motif on the back from an unattended police car.

Cllr Bill Edwards said: "There has always been an alcohol problem in the town centre, that's why the CCTV cameras are there. Unfortunately alcohol is a bigger problem than drugs in the area. And how we deal with the alcohol problem needs to be looked at."

Local councillor James Harris said: "There doesn't seem to be a door policy in Caldicot to control people coming in and out of the pubs. And Alcohol is too easily accessible to youngsters in the supermarkets.

"The Government say they are going to tighten up on drink, yet say they are going to open pubs longer.

"The kids are bored, there's nothing for them to do. We need to address the real issues in Caldicot, we have a drug problem, solvent abuse and vandalism like other towns. But I've noticed an increased drink drug activity at street level.

"Youths are using drugs on the street and nothings being done about it. Regarding the alcohol issue, as town councillors we have an opportunity to voice our opinions when clubs and pubs are applying for licenses."

Sgt Dave Tanner, of Caldicot police station, said: "It is unusual to see public disorder on this scale in Caldicot, I haven't got a clue what sparked it off."

CCTV footage of the incidents are now being examined in order to identify the culprits and lead to further arrests.

Any who witness the incidents, or has information should call 01633 838111.