IT may seem more Dixon of Dock Green than The Bill, but a dramatic fall in the number of violent crimes in Llandovery has been attributed to the good old-fashioned policy of getting bobbies back on to the beat.

PC Howie Davies said a “substantial” police presence on a particularly busy weekend earlier this month had clearly paid dividends.

“I was extremely proud the way things worked out – we didn’t have to make one arrest,” he told town councillors.

“The amount of violent crime in Llandovery has dropped substantially – I could put that down to the policy of getting policemen back on the streets.”

Cllr Allan Stather said a rugby match, rally event and private party had all contributed to “the biggest weekend I’ve ever known”.

Cllr Robin Ennion was in no doubt that high-visibility policing had served as a deterrent to potential troublemakers.

“People realise that if they do step over the line they are going to get their collars felt,” he added.

PC Davies said one remaining problem area was the skatepark which had been the scene of under-age drinking.

“These are not local youths but youngsters from another village,” he said. “They will be issued with Anti-Social Behaviour warnings in respect of their conduct.”

He added that a recent clampdown on littering had made “a big effect” on local youths.

“This just proves what we’ve been saying all along,” commented mayor Gina Jones, “that a police presence on foot has a positive effect.”