A GWENT MP has claimed tighter security is needed at Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny as there is a “real fear” among members of staff for their safety.

Monmouth MP David Davies says he has been contacted by worried staff who are concerned about security levels at the hospital after a man tried to strangle a nurse to death in front of shocked patients.

Royston Jones, aged 39 from Brynmawr, attacked his wife Claire last September in the intensive care unit where she worked.

He was recently convicted of attempted murder at Newport Crown Court and sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Mr Davies said no NHS worker should have to do their job in fear of being physically assaulted.

Mr Davies claimed that Nevill Hall Hospital "has no security staff at all" adding “I have been in A&E myself on Friday and Saturday nights and witnessed examples of threatening and intimidating behaviour by patients.

“In hospitals in London, it is normal for security staff to be employed at busy periods.

“I have therefore written to the Chief Executive of Aneurin Bevan Health Board asking her to explain what if anything is being done to improve security at Nevill Hall and ensure that all members of staff are able to work free from the fear of being attacked.”

A board spokesman said: “Aneurin Bevan University Health Board takes the safety of our staff, patients and their visitors very seriously. Hospitals are by their nature are public buildings that need to offer good access for patients, staff and visitors.

"Following the recent case, where an individual came into an area with restricted access with a clear intent to cause harm one of our employees, the Health Board invested £110,000 to improve security at the hospital. This includes CCTV, new doors and locks, swipe and proxy access points, video intercoms and two-way digital radios.

"This investment is demonstrates to our commitment to the security and safety of all staff, patients and visitors of Aneurin Bevan University Health Board. We will continue to review security at Nevill Hall Hospital over the coming months and if further security measures or presence is needed we will commit to this investment.’’