LITTER louts have left their mark at one of Abergavenny's best loved beauty spots reports GEMMA BALL.

The unseasonally warm weather during the Easter school holidays has seen large crowds gathered at River Usk in Castle Meadows.

However, a lack of litter bins has meant the banks of the river have been left with piles of rubbish consisting of food cartons, packing, bottles and other mess while the dog mess bin next to Llanfoist Bridge was overflowing with general waste.

Residents who live near the Castle Meadows have complained about the anti social behaviour and the amount of rubbish left by youths who have spent many hours at the river enjoying the beautiful Easter weather.

One resident said, "Last week there were about 30 to 40 youths along the river and at one point three girls urinated on the pubic footpath.

"Visitors from Canada eating nearby didn't even finish their food because they were so appalled at this display of anti social behaviour."

The resident said the bad language being used and the way some of the young people were behaving led him to contact the police.

"People don't want to see this almost, pornographic behaviour when all they want to do is enjoy a stroll or picnic alongside the river.

"It's a nice area that young families can enjoy but visitors won't come if this behaviour continues.

"The amount of rubbish left was disgusting, it doesn't help that there are no litter bins along the path but to just leave your rubbish lying on the riverbank is appalling.

A Gwent Police spokesperson said, "We have a dedicated Neighbourhood Policing Team which works with the community to target any problems the public raise this includes anti social behaviour which we work with our partners to raise awareness."

At the time of going to press, no-one was available for comment from Monmouthshire County Council.