A ban on open-air drinking, better street lighting and more investment in the local youth club - these were some of the suggestions voiced at a public meeting in Aberporth last week.

The meeting - which was attended by more than 100 residents - was called by the community council in response to growing concerns about the rise in anti-social behaviour amongst village youngsters.

Some residents - many of whom were elderly - said they were afraid to go out at night for fear of abuse and vandalism from gangs of youngsters congregating outside the village hall and drinking cheap cider in the recreation park.

The meeting was addressed by Cardigan police inspector Alfor Evans who claimed the village was regularly patrolled by officers but admitted that resources were stretched.

The main problem is caused by youngsters aged 18 and over buying drink - usually strong cider that sells for a £1 a litre - and distributing it among younger children, some barely out of primary school.

One suggestion, from village motel owners Sian and Richard Morris that off-licence sales should be banned for three months was deemed unworkable.

There was a possibility that by-laws could be passed banning people from drinking in certain parts of the village, but even Insp Evans admitted they could be difficult to enforce.

Youth club chairman Tony Tucker admitted it was difficult dealing with some of the youngsters - but called on the community to help instead of standing by.

"Our youth leader left, fed up with the behaviour of a minority of the youngsters. The parents of these young people are not here tonight and need to take some responsibility. The community also has to start taking responsibility for its young people.

"The youth club is grossly underused. There is not enough community support. Volunteers are not coming forward."

He also called on the county council to invest more in youth services at grassroots level.

Rhydian Wilson, from Ceredigion Youth Services, said the county could only find enough money to open the youth club one night a week.

And, adding that he would be talking to the youth club and local youngsters, he said: "You have a great facility here. We have got to look at doing something positive for your young people - after all they are the future of your community."