'Louts on bikes' kill lake ducks

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Vandals have killed wildlife and caused damage to a boating lake which has had £250,000 spent on improvements.

Torfaen council said "louts on bikes" killed ducks by riding into them at Cwmbran boating lake.

Vegetation, fencing and decking were also damaged, and police and park wardens are stepping up patrols.

Some £250,000 was recently spent on environmental work, including new viewing platforms, improved access, repairs and a wetlands habitat.

Insp Martin Hayter, of the Cwmbran neighbourhood policing team, said: "Patrols in the area will continue and any incidents of criminal damage or anti-social behaviour should be reported and will be thoroughly investigated".

I'm disgusted that people would do something like this when we are doing our very best to provide improved facilities Councillor John Cunningham

Officials say there has been a "spate of incidents" over the past few weeks, including defecation by the vandals in the wetlands area.

Work on a new £250,000 boathouse is due to be completed next month to replace one burnt down in 2007.

A further £170,000 is due to be spent later this year on other improvements to the lake area.

New catering and toilet facilities are due to be completed and patrols will be stepped up to ensure they are not vandalised.

The building is being made from fire-resistant materials and has detectors to alert emergency services.

'Mindless vandals'

Councillor John Cunningham, executive member for operational services, said: "I'm disgusted that people would do something like this when we are doing our very best to provide improved facilities for the local community.

"I have said all along that the improvements will once again make the boating lake an asset to Cwmbran and the whole of Torfaen.

"Unfortunately, the reckless actions of a few mindless vandals are jeopardising this. By working with police, we will do everything we can to protect the local area."

Police said anti-social behaviour had been targeted during the past 12 months with officers using dispersal notices, seizing alcohol and dealing with "habitual offenders".

Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to contact Gwent Police on 01633 838111.