New measures set to fight yobbish behaviour (From Free Press Series)

New measures set to fight yobbish behaviour

ABERGAVENNY police are to seek the first Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBO) in the town against a gang of teenagers who are continually causing problems in the town centre.

There have been numerous complaints about the gang of boys and girls, who gather outside Tesco and in High Cross in the town centre most evenings.

At last week's meeting of the town's chamber of trade and commerce, several members commented on the problems the gang cause, and agreed to ask Insp Allyn Richards to their next meeting.

Richard Gafney, one of the two vice-presidents, said the gang had been causing problems outside the town hall the previous weekend. He added: "We need a greater police presence in the town, and it isn't just at night they cause problems."

Ken Watkins, licensee of the King's Head agreed. "Customers walking through High Street complain about their abusive behaviour, and they say you can have a night out in Cardiff and feel safe, but you can't in Abergavenny."

Det Sgt Howard Salmon said the police were aware of the problem and were working on a strategy to deal with it.

He said: "We have received reports of unruly behaviour by youngsters before 10pm, and this problem has certainly increased in the last few weeks, not only in High Street but also in the Tesco area of town.

"These youngsters are foul-mouthed and have total disrespect for passers-by. This sort of behaviour is no longer tolerated.

"For the sake of every law-abiding citizen, we are considering not only prosecution, but obtaining ASBOs banning this small group of boys and girls from entering the town area intent on causing disruption to others."

On Sunday, police were called to deal with complaints from local councillors who were among a crowd of around 120 attending the final band concert in Bailey Park, organised by the town council.

Motorcycles were being ridden through the park among the families who were picnicking and playing in the park, and when the councillors remonstrated with those responsible, they faced abuse.

Insp Richards said they were investigating the incident and were hoping to interview those responsible this week.