On Monday 21 February, PCC Dafydd Llywelyn visited Talgarth, Hay on Wye and Brecon as part of a Community Engagement Day in South Powys where he was able to discuss aspects of his new Police and Crime Plan for Dyfed-Powys with local community representatives.

In Talgarth, the PCC met with retail managers to discuss concerns over some anti-social behaviour and a recent rise in petty theft. While in Hay on Way, the PCC met with several Councillors as well the Town Mayor to identify ways of working closer with the community to tackle some of the local issues.

Following another meeting with Councillors in Brecon, the PCC visited Brecon Police Station where he had an opportunity to discuss and raise all the concerns with the local Inspector Gwyndaf Bowen.

PCC Dafydd Llywelyn said: “I was glad to be able to be out in local communities once more, interacting and engaging in person with people. It was a very positive engagement day overall, and I am grateful for the Councillors for coming forward to discuss local issues with me.

“The feedback I received was positive, and it was great to hear about the impact of our Neighbourhood Policing Team in the area. Understandably there were some concerns about a rise in antisocial behaviour during lockdown, but preventing harm caused through crime and antisocial behaviour is one of the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan and, by taking a proactive and partnership approach, I am confident we will create safer communities across Dyfed-Powys.”

Local County Councillor, William Powell, who is also member of the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Panel, accompanied the Commissioner during his engagement day.

Cllr Powell commented: ‘’After the many months of lockdown, Covid-19 restrictions and endless Teams fixtures, it was really rewarding to join the Dafydd Llywelyn on this, his first in person engagement day post Covid.

“In my own community of Talgarth, it was interesting to hear of the daily challenges faced by key workers upholding the law. Colleague councillors in Hay on Wye and Brecon were candid, both in recognising proactive policing, as well as those areas where fresh impetus is required, in delivering on the Police and Crime Plan.”