Individuals eager to help Dyfed-Powys Police make rural communities safer are wanted.

Those who can spare some time this month are being urged to attend one of four public focus groups.

Their opinions, observations and ideas will help the police force work with communities in the years to come.

Police and Crime Commissioner Christopher Salmon, who is organising the groups, said: “I want to understand what issues stop rural communities engaging with policing.

“How can people can be encouraged to report more crime? What would make them more willing to help tackle problems? What methods, outlooks and technologies work well in bringing the police and public together?

“Those keen to let me have their views are urged to attend a focus group. Your thoughts count!”

The focus groups will feature university researchers working on a scheme to establish a rural policing centre of excellence.

The 90-minute public focus groups are due to take place at Vestry Brondeifi, Lampeter, May 14, 1.30pm, and Narberth Museum May 22, 1.30pm.

Similar sessions will be held for front line police officers.

Mr Salmon said: “In Dyfed-Powys, geography is our big challenge. People can often feel isolated in rural areas, adversely affecting their fear of crime. I’m doing all I can to change that.”

To register an interest contact the Commissioner’s Office at least three days before your chosen focus group, specifying the event you’d like to attend, your name, the town/village in which you live, your contact details and whether you’d like to take part using the English or Welsh language. Email opcc@dyfed-powys.pnn.police.uk, phone 01267 226440 or write to Anne Williams, OPCC, PO Box 99, Llangunnor, Carmarthen, SA31 2PF.