ROBBERIES and attempted robberies involving a weapon have more than quadrupled within the last three years.

In 2005 there were just ten robberies or attempted robberies in Gwent, where the aggressor had a weapon - two where shops were targetted and eight involving individual victims.

But just two years later in 2007 that figure had risen to 47.

Knives and blades are now the most commonly used weapons, although firearms, airweapons, blunt objects and even a glass bottle were also used in robberies across Gwent last year.

Police officers are quick to point out that the number of overall robberies and attempted robberies has decreased over the same period, from 332 in 2005 to 256 in 2007.

Detective Superintendent Geoff Ronayne added: "The number of robberies involving a weapon is still relatively low, although there has been an upward trend."

He added that the use of firearms in armed robberies and attempted armed robberies was down.

But the biggest increase was in bladed weapons, which mirrors a national trend.

DSI Roynayne says this is now being targetted by Gwent Police.

He said: "The force is prioritising violent and alcohol-related crime in 2007/8."