SECURITY is being stepped up in Newport ahead of the Nato summit, with drains and lampposts being sealed off as part of a police security crackdown.

Drains and lampposts near the Riverfront Theatre and the University of South Wales campus were sealed off at around 5pm on July 16.

Two stickers are placed on each side of every lamppost on the walk way that follows the River Usk from Town Bridge, all the way down to the SDR Bridge, Pill, with rubber seals on most drains.

Nato, which will see thousands of delegates and journalists from all over the world attend the event on September 4 and 5, will also attract some controversy with thousands of anti-Nato protesters expected to converge on the city.

Commenting on their work to seal up key areas which may pose a security risk, a Gwent Police spokesman said: “As the Nato summit draws closer we are finalising our preparations for the policing operation which will help ensure the safety of local residents and delegates.

“We are grateful to the public for their continued support and understanding and apologise in advance if any of our activity causes any disruption or inconvenience.”

This follows Gwent Police’s announcement last month, which confirmed they are taking no chances during the summit with a 10,000 strong policing team being deployed in South Wales for the event.

Chairman of the Gwent Police Federation Jeff Mapps said that all leave has been cancelled for Gwent officers during the deployment.