Anti-racism signs will be put up around Y Plas grounds in Machynlleth after the town council were informed of racist incidents.

Town clerk Gwilym John Rippon told councillors, during a council meeting on 29 March, of an email from a parent who reported incidences of xenophobia and racism on the Machynlleth Pump Track and playground on Y Plas grounds.

Mr Rippon said it had been organised for a police officer to visit children in Ysgol Bro Hyddgen to discuss such issues.

Cllr Michael Williams said: “I support absolutely what has been written in to the clerk and that we open discussions with the people who have expressed, quite rightly, those serious concerns regarding racist talk.

“We must do everything that we can to prevent it happening in the future.”

Mr Rippon suggested putting anti­-racism posters around the playground and pump track.

Mayor Cllr Richie Gaskell said: “I agree with some sort of sign going up.

“We put signs up about dog poo being picked up, it would be good idea to put signs there to say the council will not tolerate any abuse or foul language.”

Cllr Gareth Jones suggested that the signs include information for young people who may encounter such behaviour: “I strongly suggest the signage says something more than just not tolerating racism, there should be a way for young people to get help.

“It could give young people an idea about what to do if they encounter it. They may be there by themselves so they must have a way of getting help immediately.”

He added: “Whether that is the police, or when the Plas is open again, during the day time at least, I would hope they would be comfortable going there.”

The council voted in favour of writing to the parent involved to express their concern and to erect signage, including the 101 number so young people can contact the police if they encounter such issues.

Cllr MacGarry also proposed the council sign an anti-racism pledge. However as some councillors were concerned to signing up to the pledge without having seen it, Cllr Elliot suggested the council write their own pledge.

This is to be discussed further in the next meeting.