Castle under attack from vandals

Problems have increased in the area around the castle

A castle built to defend a south Wales town against invaders is coming under attack again, but this time by vandals.

Barriers have had to be erected at one of the entrances to Caldicot Castle in Monmouthshire after a series of anti-social incidents were reported.

Most of the incidents have taken place in the car park next to the town's tourist attraction.

It follows similar action at nearby Newport after crime levels rose within the city castle grounds.

It is a great shame, but a growing number of complaints have led us to take action Councillor Bob Greenland

According to its website, Caldicot Castle was "founded by the Normans, developed in royal hands as a stronghold in the Middle Ages and restored as a Victorian family home".

But a new chapter has now been added to its "romantic and colourful history".

The barrier has been put in as part of a trial to see if problems fall after the castle has closed for the day.

It will be lowered as staff leave in the evening and raised when they return the next day.

Monmouthshire councillor Bob Greenland said: "It is a great shame, because of the problems we have had, to impose these restrictions, but a growing number of complaints have led us to take action.

"The last thing we want to do is prevent appropriate use of the park, but we need to balance the proper enjoyment of the park with the risk of crime or intimidation of the public.

"If the restrictions cause excessive inconvenience for users or they fail to prevent the problems, we shall have to think again."

The trial is being supported by Gwent Police and the Severnside Community Safety Action Team.