Tywyn and Aberdyfi have welcomed police chiefs to discuss how to fight crime and build community links in the area.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Andy Dunbobbin and Deputy PCC Wayne Jones visited on 28 July alongside PCSO Delyth Edwards to meet with local organisations, businesses and community representatives in Meirionnydd and South Gwynedd and to explore opportunities for future partnership work.

The visit began at Tywyn Market. The commissioner met stallholders who help create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for the local community and tourists alike, and took the opportunity to sample some local produce.

He then visited Talyllyn Railway, meeting with railway management to learn more about the attraction's contribution to the local economy and tourism sector.

The Commissioner also visited Tywyn Co-op, where management spoke candidly about the challenges posed by shoplifting and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

Store representatives highlighted the significant cost of theft to the business and its potential impact on employees' livelihoods. Mr Dunbobbin highlighted the work he is undertaking in his role as the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners' Joint Lead for Business and Retail Crime to tackle these issues and to support businesses affected by retail offending, and welcomed the store’s proactiveness reporting incidents through 101. He acknowledged further work is needed to better protect retail staff and enhance the efficiency of crime reporting processes.

Staff praised PCSO Edwards, recognising her strong community presence and the role she has played in reducing ASB among young people visiting the store, as well as helping to tackle alcohol theft.

PCSO Edwards said: “It was a pleasure to welcome PCC Dunbobbin and Deputy PCC Wayne Jones to Tywyn and Aberdyfi. Their visit highlighted the remarkable community spirit across our area, with dedicated individuals and organisations working together to provide opportunities, facilities, and activities for people of all ages. From the Summer Market and Bwyd a Hwyl scheme to local businesses and community organisations, the visit showcased the strength and vitality of the southernmost communities of Meirionnydd.”

The final stop of the day was Aberdyfi Outward Bound Trust centre, where the Commissioner learned more about the organisation's work supporting young people through outdoor learning, skills development, and confidence-building activities.

PCC Dunbobbin said: "It was fantastic to see first-hand the strong sense of community in Tywyn and Aberdyfi, from the dedicated stallholders at the market, to the volunteers and staff who help preserve the area's rich heritage.

"I was particularly impressed by the work being carried out by the Outward Bound Trust and the opportunities it provides for young people to grow in confidence and develop valuable life skills. There is real potential for future collaboration, and I look forward to exploring how we can work together to support young people and communities across North Wales.

"Visits like these are invaluable in helping me understand the challenges and opportunities facing our communities and ensuring that policing and wider public services continue to work closely with local organisations for the benefit of residents and visitors alike."