VALE of Clwyd’s member of the Senedd (MS) has praised police officers in the country for retaining the ‘overwhelming support of the public’ during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Ann Jones MS, who is also Deputy Presiding Officer of the Welsh Parliament, issued a letter of thanks to Police Federation members in Wales and described their contribution as being ‘in the finest traditions of the service.’

Her support was warmly welcomed by John Apter, the National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, who said: “Police officers don’t do what they do for reward or thanks, but this appreciation will mean so much to my colleagues in Wales.

“Policing is tough at the best of times and during the pandemic it has undoubtably become harder. To receive the support of an influential person such as Ann Jones will be really appreciated by the entire police family.

“I’d also like to join Ann in saying thank you to my Welsh colleagues for their fantastic work during the crisis, and for their outstanding contribution to the country.”

In a personal message to North Wales Police Federation General Secretary Mark Jones, the leading politician wrote: “It is often said, that police are the public and that the public are the police. The challenging nature of the lockdown has seen officers across North Wales call on their excellent links with the community to explain the reasons for lockdown, encourage people to follow new rules and, where necessary, take enforcement action to ensure compliance.

“North Wales is blessed with some of the most beautiful countryside and coastline in the UK and in normal times, visitors would find a warm welcome. Enforcing nonessential travel rules has been a vital part of police officers’ duties for the small number of people who feel able to disregard the safety of others.

“All such encounters carry increased risk and officers have not shied away from putting the

needs of others at the forefront of their actions. It would be extraordinary if such a rapid and drastic change to policing saw no teething problems.

"As a former emergency service employee, I know the impact of these challenging times will not just be felt by police officers and support staff but also their families. Many officers will be separated from family who may be self-isolating.

“My gratitude, and that of the public at large, is extended to police officers and staff who continue to keep us safe during these unprecedented times.”