CHILDREN are being driven out of a Newport playground by yobs, according to a worried parent.

Alan Martin, 46, from St Julians, fears the playground in Glebelands Park is becoming a no-go area for young children and their parents.

He says the area has been taken over by teenage yobs who destroy playing equipment, drink alcohol and smoke drugs, and smash bottles which shower the area with broken glass.

Mr Martin claims it has come to the point where he can sometimes no longer take his eight-year-old daughter, Chelsea, and nephew, Kaylun, to enjoy the park.

Gwent Police said they have only received one call about problems at the park this year and are urging anyone who feels threatened to contact them.

Mr Martin said: "The playground has been taken over by a gang of youths.

"About 12 weeks ago a motorbike was set on fire on the merry-go-round which has melted it, so it is no good anymore.

"For a while there was wire sticking out which could have garrotted someone's finger.

"The little children's swings have been ripped off.

"There is graffiti and some of it is foul language which you don't want to expose children to.

"On Saturdays you have the broken glass from smashed bottles of vodka drinks, and spliff ends all over the floor.

"You can't take the children down there in the daytime because there are 13- to 15-year- olds using the swings and lying all over the equipment.

"It has come to the point where you can't take the kids down there anymore."

A Gwent Police spokeswoman said: "We have had one call this year in relation to youth annoyance and criminal damage at this location, and this is being investigated.

"As this incident has now been highlighted, the ward officer will be made aware and monitor the area closely when on duty."

She said Gwent Police would urge anyone who feels threatened in the area to contact Maindee police on 01633 838111.