A county councillor for Saundersfoot’s concerns over a lack of police presence for the seaside village, especially over busy holiday periods, has seen a meeting lined-up with a Dyfed-Powys Police Inspector to consider matters.

County councillor for the South Ward, Cllr Chris Williams recently highlighted his continuing concerns over a perceived lack of police presence around the coastal village, and wrote to the Chief Inspector of Pembrokeshire policing outlining his views, with anti-social behaviour and other related issues, frequently occurring in the community.

“I had a very positive response,” said Cllr Williams. “I also had a meeting with the two local PCSOs to outline my comments to the Chief Inspector, Michael Llewellyn and how we can better communicate in the community.

“I also attended the drop-in centre at the Regency Hall to see how easy it was for local residents to drop by with any concerns.

“Insp Llewellyn has agreed to meet me in Saundersfoot and I will be looking at involving fellow County Councillor Alec Cormack and interested parties to attend, with the emphasis on working together to improve communication in our village.”

In correspondence sent to Cllr Williams, Insp Llewelyn stated: “I can assure you that whilst you may not always see Police officers or PCSOs in Saundersfoot, they are patrolling there as part of their tour of duty.

“I am satisfied, based on the data available to me at present with the allocated staffing to the area and there is an increase in patrols to Saundersfoot every summer. This year is no different.

“I would urge you, as you have done so already to reinforce the message with the shop owners to report incidents of shoplifting to us.

“The PCSOs will also reinforce this important messaging because without incidents being reported to us then the demand at Saundersfoot is not being realised, which is clearly a risk.

“One report of shoplifting came to us in the past month, and in addition to that there is only one report of disorder.

“This is not a Saundersfoot specific issue – this happens all across the country. I know, however, I will be expecting my staff to meet the needs of the most vulnerable in our community and focus on the Force priorities - domestic violence, sexual offences and drug supply.”

Insp Llewellyn reported that he was aware that the CCTV had not been working properly, but had been assured that repairs would take place in imminently.