Taxpayers will fork out average of 19p extra per week for police services from April, it has been announced.

Gwent police and crime commissioner (PCC) Jeff Cuthbert has announced the portion of council tax which goes to police services will go up by over four per cent this year.

The average band ‘D’ property will pay £238.84 for policing and related services next year, up £10.

The PCC said the increase is necessary to ensure Gwent Police is able to continue to run services and balance its budget next year.

“The decision to increase the precept is not one I have taken lightly and I recognise that any increase in taxation at any level will be challenging for some of our residents," he said.

"However, this is the right decision for policing and the safety of our communities and it received an endorsement from the public in my consultation.

"This budget will enable Gwent Police to maintain and protect the number of officers it currently has and achieve a balanced budget next year.”

Mr Cuthbert added, “I would like to thank all of the residents of Gwent who took the time to give me their views and I would like to thank the Gwent Police and Crime Panel for their challenge and scrutiny.”