Madam,

The recent announcement on the future of the Dyfed-Powys Police helicopter is very disappointing news. As a result of the commission-er’s decision, our local police will no longer have dedicated air support.

Although the Pembrey base will remain open in some form, there are no assurances on its long-term future. Aircraft will be based outside our area, meaning increased response times, and the risk of aircraft not being available when needed.Under the current commissioner there seems to be a pattern of cutting support services, centralising them away from our communities, and placing a political agenda of cuts above the needs of the police and the public. It’s unacceptable that this helicopter – paid for by the taxpayers of Dyfed-Powys – will be transferred and possibly sold off; the job of our police force will be made more difficult as a result.

Yours etc,Dafydd Llywelyn,Former Principal Crime and Intelligence Analyst, Dyfed-Powys Police, Plaid Cymru Candidate for Police and Crime Commissioner,Heol Llyn y Frân, Llandysul.