THE message is loud and clear: "Let's make Caerphilly borough safer."

A unique bus has been launched to help get the message across about the dangers of arson.

It is hoped the striking bus will capture the attention of people all over the region and deter the arsonists who cost taxpayers millions last year.

The Islwyn borough transport vehicle is a normal service bus travelling the streets of the area which has a huge skull and flames that stretch along the length of the bus.

The bus has been funded by the Arson Reduction Group and supported by the Safer Caerphilly County Borough Community Safety Partnership.

It is part of a new initiative called 'Safer Caerphilly County Borough' which is a community partnership.

Campaign has teamed up with Caerphilly County Borough Council, Gwent Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Caerphilly Local Health Board and Gwent Probation Service to promote the initiative.

The partnership will work to reduce crime and the fear of crime within the region, leaflets, posters and stickers are being distributed in the area.

A CCTV mobile unit will be up and running soon and a summer scheme co-ordinated by the police will be available for youngsters during the summer.

More Community Safety Wardens and Assistant Community Safety Officers will be also be employed to keep a closer eye on crime in local areas.

Station Commander Steve Logan said: "Over 83 percent of fires are caused deliberately in Caerphilly borough and that is just not acceptable.

We are confident that this advertising campaign will reduce arson in this area."