Whole of Newtown affected by assaults, says mayor
The mayor of Newtown believes recent assaults in the town have left people feeling unsafe to walk the streets.
Four people sustained injuries in the three attacks, with one man suffering a broken leg.
A campaign for more CCTV and more police officers to be introduced on the streets has started, with a petition gathering over 2,800 signatures.
On Monday, Newtown Town Council will discuss the recent events and hear from Duncan Foulkes, who started the campaign after his son Danny was left injured following one of the attacks.
Ahead of the meeting, Newtown mayor Sue Newham has said in a letter the attacks have affected every member of the community in a negative way.
She is urging people to report any suspicious behaviour to the police, as attempts are made to tackle problems in the town.
She said: “Newtown is normally a peaceful place where people of all ages can walk around at all times of the day and night and feel safe, and that has been shattered by these appalling attacks.
“I am very concerned about the effect that incidents like this have on individuals and on the community.
“Victims of attacks can suffer long term physical and mental health problems, and always suffer a loss of confidence which makes them more safety conscious and anxious.
“Their friends and others who have heard of the attacks will also feel less safe.”
“I am currently practising for a 5km fun run, and have wondered if it is safe for me to go out and practice alone. These attacks affect every member of the community in a negative way.”
“For the good of the whole community I urge everyone to look out for other people when you are out and about. Please report any suspicious behaviour to the police.”
Earlier this week, Mr Foulkes announced Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llewellyn had confirmed a new, high definition CCTV system for Newtown is included in the £2 million that is to be invested in cameras across 14 towns.
He added: “I have requested details of the costs of the proposed project and the likely contribution that the town will have to make.
“This is very positive news and Mr Llywelyn has pledged to make Newtown a high priority in view of the public concern about violence and drug crime in the town.”
