There will be more police in Tenby over the summer months to help the town cope with the large number of people who will come to enjoy what is on offer.
Under ‘Operation Lion’ which will run in Tenby from this Saturday to August 28, more police resources will be dedicated to the area to help cope with the increase in crime, disorder and antisocial behaviour the town experiences over the summer.
Dyfed-Powys Police has worked with British Transport Police and Arriva Trains Wales to help people coming to Tenby by train get to and from the town safely.
Police officers from both forces will be on the trains and the platform on weekends, to help deal with the large numbers of people who use the service.
Tenby Inspector Aled Davies, said: “Tenby is home to a variety of tourist attractions and events, including the Summer Spectaculars, and experiences a huge boost in population over the summer months.
“The influx of visitors combined with the diversity of our patch brings challenges for us as a police force. This summer we are trying to help people enjoy our unique region by offering advice to help them do that.
“In the past we have seen a minority of people come to Tenby to visit the pubs and clubs who then cause trouble due to drinking too much alcohol.
“Very often some of these individuals have arrived by train already intoxicated, so by working closely with British Transport Police and Arriva Trains Wales, we will be able to stop people from getting on the train to Tenby in the first place, if their behaviour is not acceptable.
“As well as extra officers at Tenby train station, there will be extra officers on foot patrol around the town from the early afternoon onwards. We are working closely with local businesses and the community to make sure Tenby continues to be a safe and popular destination for all to enjoy.
“We are very lucky to live and work in a place that people want to visit and we welcome visitors to the area to come and enjoy what is on offer, but we won’t put up with people behaving badly and ruining the fun for everyone,” he added.
Sergeant Steve Dawkins, of British Transport Police, said: “Tenby is a fantastic place to visit during the summer, with an array of attractions and events, and we look forward to welcoming visitors using the railway.
“We want everyone to have a happy and safe Summer Spectacular, and will do everything we can to help make this happen.
“People shouldn’t be concerned to see additional police officers on patrol during July and August, which is traditionally an extremely busy time on the rail network.
“Our officers will be on hand to help make sure revellers not only reach the festivities, but also get home again safely.
“While we don’t want to spoil anyone’s evening, we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour or any form of aggression towards rail staff.
“Anyone who is found to be unfit through alcohol will be refused travel and could find themselves in front of the court.
“Enjoy yourselves, enjoy the summer, enjoy Tenby and all it has to offer, but please remember to keep a clear head - alcohol and railways can be a dangerous cocktail.”
Security manager at Arriva Trains Wales, Simon Turton, commented: “The safety of our passengers and staff is always our first priority, so we are very pleased to be working with the police to ensure they enjoy their visit to Tenby.
“As a train operator we will be providing as much capacity as we can to and from the town this summer and passengers can expect to travel in a safe environment with us.
“On some days it will be very busy, so having the support from police on trains and at the station will provide that extra level of reassurance for our customers.”