Police presence will continue to increase in Caernarfon over Easter as booze-fuelled anti-social behaviour in the town spikes.

The clampdown comes after an increase in alcohol-related public order issues, assaults on police officers and damage caused to business premises, with North Wales Police saying the increase in presence has proven successful so far, with no arrests for any public order event in the town on Saturday night (April 9).

T/Sgt Steve Phelps from Caernarfon Response team said: “Caernarfon is a popular night out for locals and visitors and is enjoyed by many.

“The aim of the re-directed patrols is to ensure it remains a safe, friendly destination by excluding those causing the most harm from the town.”

The support and cooperation of the SIA approved door staff has been key to this success, police say.

Officers will continue working with local pub and nightclub security over the Easter Bank Holiday break to ensure problems are kept to a minimum.

Police have also issued a plea to parents to know what their children are up to, after a spate of anti-social behaviour in the area.

Measures introduced as part of the clampdown include police continuing to engage with SIA approved door staff to share information, drug detecting swabs being randomly utilised at licence premises (feeding back to the licence holder), stop and search powers being fully utilised, dispersal powers, drink banning orders (DBOs) being applied, and use of the town’s CCTV system to identify and peruse.

Sgt Phelps continued: “We are also seeing a trend of youths, as young as 13 around the town acting anti socially during the early hours, youths from Caernarfon but also nearby villages.

“Frankly I would ask, if parents and guardians really know where their children are, especially if they ask to stay with a friend.

“This is purely from a safeguarding perspective and ensure they are not exploited in anyway and that they do not become a victim of crime.”

“The message is clear. Caernarfon is a world heritage site and a town to be proud of. If you visit, stay safe and enjoy.”