Torfaen wards get dedicated officers (From Free Press Series)

Torfaen wards get dedicated officers

AREAS of Torfaen have been given their own dedicated police officers.

Four new ward officers have been appointed in Pontypool and five in Cwmbran.

They are part of a 66-strong team of fully-trained police officers appointed throughout Gwent. Their job will be to reduce crime in a particular location. They should not be called upon to tackle crime outside that area. More could be appointed next year.

Inspector Jo Bull of Pontypool police said: "The officers, who will be working shift patterns determined by the needs of each ward, are committed to addressing local concerns in partnership with other local service providers.

"Over the coming months, the officers will be working hard to build relationships with the public and partner agencies and can be contacted over the phone should there be a non-urgent local issue that needs addressing."

The new PCs for Pontypool are: Mick Lumsden covering Trevethin and Penygarn, 01495 764600.

Ian Barnett covering Garndiffaith and Abersychan, 01495 772540.

Marc Johnstone covering New Inn, Griffithstown and Sebastopol, 01495 759449.

Mal John covering Blaenavon, 01495 790452.

A fifth officer, to cover Pontypool town centre, is currently being recruited. The Cwmbran PCs are: Stephen Marsdon covering Croesyceiliog, Llanyravon and Ponthir.

Annette Sanford covering the town centre, Northville and Pontnewydd.

Phil Williams covering Oakfield, Llantarnam and St Dials.

Matthew Hook covering Fairwater, Coed Eva and Greenmeadow.

Mark Gazzi covering Thornhill, Henllys and Ty Canol.

Call PC Darrell Dewar on 01633 642054 to contact these officers initially.

Superintendent Paul Symes, head of Gwent Police 'B' Division (covering Torfaen and Monmouthshire) said that the move underlines his force's commitment to neighbourhood policing.

"It's about high-visibility policing - listening to the community, and interacting as much as possible," said PC Marsdon.

He added: "It's a local police officer who will deal with all local issues. "Hopefully, therefore, people won't have to keep recapping on problems with a succession of different officers."

It's hoped the move will have an impact on common neighbourhood problems such as minor youth disorder.