News

Another critical report on Dyfed-Powys Police

Published

9 years ago

February 18, 2016

Tom Sinclair

Confident Force is effective: PCC Christopher Salmon, Conservative candidate

A FURTHER report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) has found ‘some shortcomings’ in the Dyfed-Powys Force’s approach to investigating crimes and has suggested that insufficient attention is being paid to the victims of crimes when allocating investigators.

The report is not all bad news, however: it finds that the force works effectively with partners and highlights its joint work with Barnardo’s to support runaway children.

Dyfed-Powys Police has a strong ethic to protect the vulnerable. However, the report finds that this is overshadowed by difficulties that call-handlers have in identifying vulnerability at the first point of contact. Additionally, the service to some domestic abuse victims falls short of acceptable standards.

Perhaps most troublingly, the report finds that there is a lack of availability of experienced detectives and out-of-hours coverage.

More positively, the force has three integrated offender management (IOM) units. HMIC found these to be well managed and their staff are highly motivated and their systems and ways of working are effective at curbing the offending behaviour of the most prolific offenders in Dyfed-Powys.

In October 2015 HMIC graded the force’s financial and workforce future planning as “requiring improvement” – the only force in Wales not to receive a grading of “good”.

Last week HMIC said the force also “required improvement” in the way in which it treats members of the public.

Commissioner responsible for ‘a catalogue of failures’: Dafydd Llywelyn, Plaid candidate

Dafydd Llywelyn, who is the former Principal Crime and Intelligence Officer at Dyfed Powys, has today been equally as critical of the current Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner, Christopher Salmon. Mr Llywelyn, currently lecturing in Criminology, said today’s report made him think that “enough is enough”.

He added that the workforce and residents in Dyfed and Powys communities needed a new Commissioner who could competently lead the force.

Dafydd Llywelyn said: “In recent weeks and months HM Inspectorate of Constabulary has been very critical of Dyfed Powys Police Force. I am deeply concerned to see yet another damning report today.

“Let’s take stock of the current position of Dyfed Powys: HM Inspectorate has said the police force has put workforce cuts before organisational requirements, has no clear plans as to how the force will manage future budget cuts and that the force is not performing well in child protection cases.

“Last week HM Inspectorate issued a damning verdict on the way the force treats and engages with the public. Today the independent watchdog said the force must improve how it keeps us safe and improve on how it can reduce crime.

“All of these critical reports have been issued within the last few months. The current Conservative police and crime commissioner has presided over a catalogue of failures and I think enough is enough.

“Dyfed Powys Police force, the resident is serves and its workforce are desperate for new and competent leadership. That leadership can only come with a change of Commissioner in May.”

Mr Llywelyn concluded: “As things stand, with critical Inspectorate report after critical Inspectorate report, the public would not have any confidence in the decision making and appointment by the current Commissioner.”

In response to today’s HMIC report Police Effectiveness 2015, Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Christopher Salmon said: “Dyfed-Powys has the lowest crime rates in England and Wales.

“Crime and antisocial behaviour combined have fallen further and faster here than anywhere else in Wales since 2012.

“Dyfed-Powys Police investigate every crime. They take more cases to court than the average in England and Wales.

“Since my election in 2012 we have more officers spending more time on our communities’ streets.

“We have more officers investigating the most serious crimes and my Help Hub has increased support for victims.

“There is always more to do but I am confident that Dyfed-Powys is effective and keeping people safe and reducing crime.”

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

16 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”