RESIDENTS worried about the continuing spate of burglaries in Osbaston will have the opportunity to voice their concerns at a public meeting on Friday 6th February.

Monmouth MP David Davies decided to organise the meeting after a further three houses were broken into and a man was assaulted.

The meeting will take place at 3.45pm at Osbaston Church in Wales Primary School by kind permission of the head teacher.

Gwent Police Chief Inspector Matthew Williams - one of two new chief inspectors covering both Newport and Monmouthshire - will be in attendance alongside Detective Inspector Andrew Tuck, who is leading the investigation.

"As many people will know, Monmouth is being targeted by a highly professional gang of criminals," said Mr Davies.

"They are now believed to have carried out over 20 burglaries, mainly in the Osbaston area, and there is understandably a great deal of concern.

"I have therefore arranged a public meeting so local residents can be given a direct update from the police about their progress in finding those responsible and what measures have been put in place to protect the town. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions."

Mr Davies believes it is "very likely" that people living in Osbaston may have unknowingly seen the burglars.

"With the support of the police, I would appeal to all residents to make a note of any suspicious activity or callers in their streets," he said.

"This could be very useful evidence if any incidents take place."