Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

A convicted sex offender had to be escorted away by police after residents protested outside his home.

From images taken at the scene, around 50 people gathered directly outside the property in Coronation Crescent, Fochriw, and demanded the person leave.

A spokesperson for Gwent Police said: “We received a report of a disturbance in Coronation Crescent, Fochriw at around 12.40pm on Sunday July 21 after a group of around 40 people gathered in the street.

“Officers attended to disperse the crowd.

“No arrests have been made.”

According to an eyewitness, the protest was a peaceful one.

Eddy Blanche, a community councillor representing Fochriw on Darran Valley Community Council, said: “It’s great to see the community coming together to protect our children. Placing people like this in small communities like ours is unacceptable.”

The offender was named locally as Jordan Howe.

According to Cardiff Crown Court, Howe, aged 26, was handed a custodial sentence of 40 weeks, suspended for two years, on July 3, after admitting a single charge of engaging in sexual communication with a child.

His name was added to the sex offenders’ register for ten years and he was also given a five-year restraining order meaning he is not allowed to contact his victim.