If you go down to the woods today you may be surprised to bump into a police patrol.

In what must be one of the more attractive police beats in the country two community support officers will be patrolling the Wye Valley woodlands from Chepstow up to Monmouth.

The patrols funded by the Forestry Commission Wales and Gwent Police aim to tackle fly-tipping, criminal damage and off-road biking and helping to prevent visitors from becoming victims of vehicle crime.

Local forestry staff spend as much as 20% of their time dealing with the consequences of illegal acts. Community Support Officers (CSOs) Philip Barclay and Stephen Cowles will be working with forestry manager Richard Gable to prevent and deal with any incidents to enable forestry staff to concentrate on looking after the woodlands.

Mr Gable said: "The Wye Valley woodlands are very popular but there has been an increase in anti-social use which spoils the enjoyment of those who visit the area on a daily basis for the beautiful scenery.

"We already have a good working relationship with Gwent Police and the appointment of the CSOs should reassure the public of our determination not to tolerate any selfish or illegal behaviour."

CSO Philip Barclay will focus on the northern end of the Wye Valley from Monmouth down, with CSO Stephen Cowles concentrating on Wentwood.

Inspector Michael Boycott of Gwent Police said, "Our CSOs will be a valuable resource to the woodland area and surrounding wards and we hope that, by working together, we will not only reduce anti-social behaviour but also make the environment an even more pleasurable place for people to live in and visit."

The arrangement will run for three years, during which time the officers will also spend some of their time on other police duties.

If you are aware of any illegal activity in the woodlands of the Wye Valley, contact CSO Philip Barclay on 07800 886012 or CSO Steve Cowles on 07792 420931.