Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales, Andy Dunbobbin, has visited the Bryn Cadno Community Centre in Colwyn Bay to see how a community project is helping educate people about rural safety and crime prevention.

During the visit earlier this month, Mr Dunbobbin met representatives from North Wales Horse Watch as they delivered one of their Rural Education Project workshops. The initiative is funded through the Commissioner’s Innovate to Grow programme, which supports new ideas aimed at preventing crime across the region.

The project plans to deliver more than 20 workshops across North Wales, reaching at least 400 people, including school pupils, youth groups, community organisations and adults with additional needs. Sessions are designed to improve understanding of the Countryside Code, raise awareness of rural and wildlife crime and encourage people to enjoy the countryside safely and responsibly.

The workshop in Colwyn Bay was attended by a group of adults with learning disabilities and included practical advice on countryside safety, alongside interactive activities exploring nature. Participants also created crafts including coasters, badges and snap bands using herbs and natural materials.

North Wales Horse Watch, a charity that works closely with North Wales Police, aims to protect the countryside through education while helping reduce rural crime by sharing information and promoting good practice. Its workshops also cover topics such as cyber crime and are delivered to a wide range of community groups.

The Rural Education Project was first established in 2020 in response to concerns about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural communities. Since then, it has expanded its work to focus on preventing rural and wildlife crime while encouraging problem-solving, environmental responsibility and personal safety.

A therapy dog called Quinn also forms part of many sessions, helping participants feel more relaxed and confident while taking part.

Speaking after the visit, Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin said: “It was inspiring to see the fantastic work being delivered by North Wales Horse Watch through the Rural Education Project. This initiative not only helps tackle rural and wildlife crime but also empowers people of all abilities to enjoy the countryside safely and responsibly.

“The engagement, creativity and wellbeing support on display demonstrate the real value of investing in community-led projects through initiatives like my Innovate to Grow fund.”

Helen Lacey, Chair of North Wales Horse Watch, thanked the Commissioner for visiting and said the funding had allowed the charity to expand the project and make it accessible to more people.

She said: “We see participants growing in confidence, developing new skills, making friends and becoming more involved in their community. The Innovate to Grow fund has not simply funded activities – it has helped create opportunities, reduce barriers, improve lives and increase knowledge about crime prevention and rural safety.”

Helen was previously recognised for her commitment to supporting rural communities and North Wales Police by receiving the prestigious Lord Ferrers Award from the Home Office.

To find out more about the Rural Education Project, visit: www.ruraleducationproject.co.uk