A COMMUNITY scheme aiming to tackle speeding in Torfaen has caught out 18 drivers since launching last month.

As previously reported, the community speed watch is operated by volunteers and supported by Gwent Police's Pontypool policing team.

Volunteers are provided with training in how to use a speed monitoring device and details of roads that have been risk assessed, as well a high-visibility jacket.

When speeds have been recorded, all the results are sent back to the officers in charge, with warning letters issued to the registered owner of vehicles caught speeding.

Since forming on February 18, the group has attracted new members with each volunteer having their own reasons for joining.

Pete Gill, of New Inn, who spoke to the Argus as the group monitored traffic on Station Road, Griffithstown, said he joined because of "particular concerns in the areas where we live".

He added the highest speed recorded so far was 42mph in a 30mph.

Derek Roberts, of Griffithstown, said the group had also received positive feedback from the local community.

"There are people speeding here and it is good to see someone around, they feel they want more of a presence. It's a deterrent in a sense," he said.

"The more people we get joining the scheme the more times people can go out as we need a minimum of three people here."

Rob Boyce, of New Inn, added: "People have modern cars today and they have their foot to the floor all the time. They have to get from A to B and have total disregard for anyone else".

Gwent Police PCSO Euan Powell is one of the officers responsible for Torfaen's first community speedwatch and said the group is five-strong so far with another three volunteers showing interest.

"It's an ideal opportunity for people to get involved in helping reduce speed in their local community," he added.

"So far we have had 18 drivers identified from two group sessions so far. That is 18 drivers who would have got a notice before now."

For more information on how to become a community speed watch volunteer, email either Hannah Brown CO127 or Euan Powell CO45 at Hannah.brown@gwent.pnn.police.uk or Euan.powell@gwent.pnn.police.uk