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North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Andy Dunbobbin and Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPCC) Wayne Jones recently visited Holyhead, Anglesey to speak to members of the local neighbourhood policing team about measures in place to combat anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the area.
The PCC and DPCC were accompanied by North Wales Police Inspector for Ynys Môn Wayne Francis, along with colleagues, Sergeants Chris Burrow and Maggie Marshall and Police Community Support Officer Kelly Tatlock. The group went on a walkaround of the town centre and discussed recent policing efforts around recent reports of ASB that had been affecting the community. The wards covering Holyhead saw an increase in reports, most notably in February where there was a spike in reported incidents of properties and businesses being targeted with eggs, and large groups of youths intimidating others in the town centre.
The walkaround included locations such as Holyhead Police Station, Stanley Street and the Morawelon area, and the railway station. Inspector Francis, who accompanied the team, provided insights into the ongoing pro-active, high-visibility policing approach. This will be supported through working with local community groups, businesses, the town council and the schools on several initiatives including events aimed specifically at local young people.
The visit also coincided with National Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP) Awareness Week, providing an opportunity to discuss local crime challenges to the business community. Discussions centred on the types of business crime prevalent in the area, mostly involving nuisance behaviour in shops around the town. The group explored strategies to encourage local businesses to report incidents, such as via 101 and Live Chat, so that police can get a better picture of the situation in the area. This was a call emphasised by the PCC.
North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin said: "Our visit to Holyhead underscores our commitment to understanding and addressing the specific challenges facing the community. A local neighbourhood policing presence is a key priority in my plan to fight crime in North Wales and I was pleased to hear the local team in Holyhead are working hard to keep residents and their community safe.
“However, the reported incidents of anti-social behaviour are a concern, and we're dedicated to working closely with the Force, businesses, and residents to develop targeted solutions. I would encourage all residents to report these incidents when they happen so that police are able to act on them."
North Wales Police District Inspector Wayne Francis commented: "The walkaround was an opportunity to provide the Police and Crime Commissioner with a perspective on both the challenges we're facing in Holyhead but also the huge opportunities the town holds.
“We're looking to develop interventions that address the root causes of anti-social behaviour, particularly focusing on youth engagement and community support. Our aim is to work collaboratively to reduce crime and create a safer environment for residents and businesses."
North Wales Police urges residents and businesses to report any incidents of anti-social behaviour or crime. You can report crime by calling 101 for non-emergency incidents, calling 999 in case of an emergency or using the online reporting tool at https://www.heddlugogleddcymru.police.uk/police-forces/north-wales-police/areas/live-chat/