Crowds are flocking to Aberavon Beach to enjoy the summer sunshine – and so are members of the local Neighbourhood Policing Team.
With the fine weather upon us large numbers of visitors are descending on the Port Talbot seafront.
Local officers are conducting regular patrols to ensure visitors remain safe and to deter any anti-social behaviour.
Operation Jewel will also target any criminal activity and vehicle annoyance in the beach car parks and along Princess Margaret Way.
Sergeant Paul Davies of the Sandfields and Aberavon Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “The seafront is a jewel in the crown of Port Talbot’s visitor attractions and is enjoyed by thousands of visitors every summer.
“The vast majority of people come here and thoroughly enjoy their visit and come back time after time.
“However, there is an element of criminal and anti-social behaviour which we are aiming to stamp on with Operational Jewel.
“We will be working with the beach lifeguards, the RNLI and local authority estate rangers to ensure the beach remains safe for everyone to enjoy.”
Residents have raised the issue of police presence at local PACT meetings as they believe it offers reassurance to those using the seafront facilities.
Officers are patrolling the area on foot and utilising mountain bikes, while traffic cars are targeting the vehicle related issues.
Sergeant Davies added: “A very small minority of people behave in such a way that spoils the enjoyment of other people and causes concern.
“Our work will aim to allow people to enjoy themselves without being in fear of crime or anti-social behaviour. Getting drunk, being rowdy and leaving cans and bottles strewn across the seafront will not be tolerated.”
