ENVIRONMENTAL health officers are investigating a pile of dumped building waste which may be contaminated with asbestos.

Dr Nick Bell from St Arvans, a health and safety expert, drew the pile of rubbish in the village to Monmouthshire Council’s attention.

And a council spokesperson confirmed: "This matter is currently being looked into by our environmental health department."

Asbestos is a heat-resistant material used in many older buildings until the dangers of lung cancer and asbestosis became known.

"I believe that the material has been there for well over 10 years," said Dr Bell.

"Monmouthshire County Council environmental health team are taking this very seriously which is a huge relief."