AMMANFORD police have denied claims that an Amman Valley village was the scene of major public disorder last week.

Angry Brynaman resident Dorian Stonehouse says a mob of around 60 drunken youths "caused mayhem" on the Heol-y-Gelynen estate on Friday, October 19.

In a letter in this week's Guardian, Mr Stonehouse says: "It was like a scene from a wild west movie".

And he maintains residents were left in fear with no police officers in sight.

"Half of the youths were drunk and were shouting and using abusive language towards members of the public," he said.

But Temporary Inspector Neil Jones is refuting his claims, saying Mr Stonehouse was the only person to contact police on the night in question.

"There were officers on patrol in the locality at the time who reported that there were no issues," said Insp Jones. "Mr Stonehouse describes himself as an acting neighbourhood watch co-ordinator', but there is no neighbourhood watch scheme in this area."

Insp Jones said police were aware of problems stemming from youngsters using Brynaman cinema on Fridays and "are directing resources to deal with it".

He added: "Any youths found to be unruly will have their details recorded and warning letters sent to their parents by the Community Safety Partnership."

Police also say they are encouraged by new figures they claim show crime has fallen in the Brynaman ward.

"Between January and September, woundings were down 13% compared to the same period last year," said Insp Jones.

"Common assaults are down 33%, autocrime has been cut by 30%, thefts have fallen by 21% and cases of criminal damage are down by 25 %."

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