A POPULAR park in the valleys is still being used for late-night drinking sessions despite attempts to prevent the problem.

Bedwellty Park in Tredegar - a much-loved and well used facility - is also being used illegally by motorcyclists, it is claimed.

But now it is hoped that an expected £1 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund could help stamp out the vandalism.

Last November the Argus reported the bandstand, which was recently refur-bished at a cost of £100,000, was badly vandalised.

The wrought-iron banister on the steps was so badly twisted that the supports were wrenched from their sockets.

There was also another attack in the park earlier last year, when the long shelter was burnt down.

The popular shelter, where walkers could sit and rest, is still not replaced as insurance details are being finalised.

But Dr John Evans, clerk of Tredegar town council, said yesterday that the problems in the park are continuing.

"It is happening all the time," he told the Argus. "It is has been going on for years but it is getting worse. It is a people's park - but many people won't go there now."

He believes youngsters climb over the gates to get into the park - which is closed at dusk - and then leave litter, especially bottles, in the grounds.

A meeting of the Bedwell-ty Park Joint Committee next week is due to discuss the ongoing problems of vandalism and motorcycling.

Town councillor Megan Fox said they are waiting to hear if Bedwellty Park and House will receive the Heritage Lottery grant, saying they were "very hopeful".

Some of the money would be used to restore the upper floor of Bedwellty House in the style of the original building.

Councillor Fox added the money would also be used for a full-time park warden, which would, hopefully, resolve some of the problems there. At the moment the area is patrolled by wardens who also work at Bryn Bach Park and St James' Reservoir.