PONTYPOOL RFC and Torfaen council are to work together on “a strategy” to safeguard the future of the historic club at Pontypool Park.

A second meeting was held between the two parties earlier this week, as a solution is sought to halt persistent issues of anti-social behaviour at the rugby ground part of the park, and even arson attacks.

Following the sit down on Monday, it was said to be clear that both council and club are committed to keeping Pooler at Pontypool Park

A Torfaen County Borough Council spokesman said: “Our meeting with Pontypool RFC on February 3 was extremely positive and we are clear that we both want what is best for the town.

“We will be meeting with the club again in the coming weeks and will work with them closely to agree upon the best strategy to take things forward.”

Pooler corporate director Ben Jeffreys has said previously that the club feels full enclosure of the area used by them is the only way to prevent shocking findings of needles on the pitch and nails driven into the try lines.

He said: “We are 100 per cent committed to staying at Pontypool Park. We think it is crucial for the town.”

He also thanked the local authority again for continuing to assist with their cause.

The club was last targeted by vandals on January 13. A bin fire was set near the stands, causing “significant damage”.

It came just days after plea for help dealing with yobs at the site.

The park has been plagued by similar incidents for years, with seats ripped out of the stand, and needles found on the pitch.

Club officials and volunteers were left disgusted in November 2012 when screwdrivers, nails and knife blades were found sticking out of the try line. Broken bottles were also discovered driven into the field with sharp shards pointing upwards.

Torfaen AM Lynne Neagle and local councillors also backed Pooler in the midst of growing concern that the club may be forced elsewhere if the situation didn’t improve.

Pontypool Community Council chairman Giles Davies previously said losing the club from Pontypool would be “final nail in the coffin” for the town.

Anyone with information about anti-social behaviour or vandalism at Pontypool Park is asked to call police on 101.