RESIDENTS in a Gwent village claim they are being plagued by gangs of boy racers.

Police have received a number of complaints about youths gathering outside the car park in Gilwern, and speeding motorbikes and cars have been reported in Common Road.

It follows reports of cars being raced around the picnic site and along Dan Y Bryn and Brynglas.

Residents have also told police of two hotspots - the picnic area and the canal - where late-night anti-social behaviour regularly occurs and where gangs of youths aged around 11 to 18 loiter.

Some residents say they have been kept awake all night by youths shouting from the canal paths.

Monmouthshire county councillor Tony Carrington said boy racers used the gravel area near the canal to do wheelies and handbrake turns.

"We need a zero-tolerance measure to this," said Councillor Carrington. "Police respond but I think we need preventative measures."

He believes there is also a drug culture emerging in the area, adding that he had seen "bongs, foil and needles" and on one occasion had thrown away two syringes.

Councillor Carrington is now hoping to meet the police to discuss his concerns.

"My greatest fear is lack