RESIDENTS in Penarth had the opportunity to quiz police officers and learn about South Wales Police's plans to combat knife-crime.

A Neighbourhood Policing knife awareness event in the town, hosted in conjunction with Vale of Glamorgan Council and the police online Fearless crime reporting service,  marked the halfway point of the force's Safer Streets Summer Initiative

Since the launch of the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee in south Wales, neighbourhood policing teams (NPT) have seen an uplift in activity to tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour, theft, and shoplifting.

Those visiting or living in Penarth may have spotted the pop-up community event near Glebe Street which raised awareness of the dangers of carrying a knife, and how to report concerns around weapons.

Locals and businesses were also given advice on reporting anti-social behaviour and what the new police guarantee means for them. Alongside this, intelligence-led patrols focusing on acquisitive crime, such as shoplifting, has seen a reduction in offences through July, totalling three reports across the town centre throughout the month.

 Similar activity has taken place right across the force, with 10 key areas including Swansea, Merthyr Tydfil, Bridgend, and Penarth highlighted as focus points.

Chief Inspector Tony Williams said: "Neighbourhood Policing Teams across South Wales Police have been working extremely hard, alongside local authorities and partners, to make our town centres safer in line with the Safer Summer initiative.

"I'd like to remind residents and businesses that each community now has a named, contactable officer, listed for their area enabling them to reach out, engage with the local teams and be kept informed on local issues and priorities."

• Read more on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee in South Wales Police here.