Police have established checkpoints at a popular Anglesey beach and its adjoining forest to combat the growing threat of wildfires. Two officers are now stationed at Newborough Forest, a 2,500-acre national nature reserve, and along the access road to Traeth Llanddwyn beach, greeting visitors and reminding them of strict fire prohibitions.
Checkpoints and Patrols
The initiative, praised by local community liaison Cathy Sands, aims to educate visitors and enforce bans on camping, open fires, and barbecues. Sands stated: "As people arrive, officers are having a quick word and reminding them that fires and barbecues are not allowed. The fact that we have police here at all is wonderful." North Wales Police confirmed that local officers are collaborating with the Rural Crime Team to patrol vulnerable areas.
Rising Fire Risk
The measures follow a weekend when fire risk levels forced the closure of the entire nature reserve for a day. Despite warnings, wardens and police found "quite a few" disposable barbecues and illegal campfires. New banners have been installed, but concerns persist after devastating wildfires in Conwy and Eryri National Park diverted fire resources away from Anglesey.
Near-Disaster in June
In late June, a catastrophe was narrowly averted at Newborough Forest when two residents spotted smoke and discovered a "full-on fire" among trees. They spent 45 minutes suppressing flames with branches until firefighters arrived. The incident has spurred demands for increased patrols and public awareness as summer peaks.
Ongoing Efforts
Cathy Sands expressed hope that police presence will continue through the summer: "Having them here is a real positive - it's a beautiful place but not all visitors respect its vulnerability to fire." Meanwhile, a month-long road and track improvement program is underway, and sand encroachment has forced partial closure of the beach car park. NRW recommends picnics over barbecues, stating: "It only takes one stray spark or discarded glass bottle to cause a devastating fire."
