North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner are working with a Mold community centre to combat anti-social behaviour.

Following months of unacceptable anti-social behaviour at Parkfields Community Centre in Mold, involving a small group of young people, the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner was invited to the Centre to discuss a way forward.

The Commissioner, Andy Dunbobbin, understood the impact that this sort of intimidating behaviour can have on a town and the key role that Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) play in helping to combat it. Mold PCSOs Cleo Milburn and Connor Freel both work closely with Parkfields staff and volunteers and were also at the meeting.

West Ward town councillors Karen Hodgkinson and Brian Lloyd told the Commissioner about some of the incidents that had taken place in the area generally and the negative impact these had on residents and local businesses.

Kid’s and Youth Clubs are open twice a week at Parkfields Community Centre and give children and young people a safe, fun place to meet in an informal setting. Amy Williams, Parkfields Youth and Community worker explained that the Kid’s Club for primary aged children was thriving but that Youth Club for 11 to 17 years old, had had to be suspended this week due to some young people’s behaviour. This is an ongoing problem with a group showing complete disregard for the staff and vandalising the building and equipment.

Despite this Parkfields remains committed to working with young people in a safe environment and to offer activities they may enjoy, such as Thai boxing. As soon as it safe to do so.

The meeting was organised by Parkfields’ Trustee, Tina Claydon, and fellow trustees, Cllr Haydn Jones, chair of Parkfields Management Committee, Sheila Wilson and Andrea Mearns attended along side Parkfields staff.

Going forward Parkfields will continue to work with the local PCSOs, share information and involve other relevant agencies including Mold Town Council to try and reduce the anti-social behaviour.