Police continue action over teenage gang fights

Speculation that fights are being planned between teenagers in Newtown and Welshpool is expected to see additional police patrolling the town over the weekend.

Newtown and Welshpool railway stations are expected to be monitored and more visible officers will be patrolling the town centre and other areas where groups could meet.

It follows an unprecedented statement by Dyfed Powys Police yesterday about rumours of fighting being arranged between teenagers in both towns.

There has always been a rivalry between the towns and incidents over the years, but police said they were concerned about specific speculation over this weekend.

Newtown Police Inspector Matthew Price said: “We are aware that groups of teenagers from the Newtown and Welshpool areas are arranging to meet and fight in the towns over the coming weekend. We are engaging with their school and are appealing to parents to support us to stop this behaviour," said Inspector Matthew Price of Newtown Police.

“This information has come to us from a number of sources, and is really concerning to hear. We want to warn those involved that we know their plans, and violent behaviour won’t be tolerated. We will deal with any offences committed.”

Anyone who has information can call police on 101.