Tenby's police inspector has stated that 'imminent action' is to be taken in relation to offences identified from an incident that occurred in the town earlier this month when a group of around 40 to 50 intoxicated men from outside the area clashed with guests at a private party.

In response to concerns and adverse publicity associated with the incident of disorder on Saturday, November 8, Inspector Mark McSweeney addressed members of Tenby Town Council ahead of their meeting on Tuesday night, to give reassurance to the community that a significant amount of work had been done and was ongoing in Pembrokeshire, and in particular Tenby, with the police working with partner agencies, licensees and the community to reduce the impact of the late-night economy in the town.

"We are progressing matters in respect of complaints that have subsequently been received, and appropriate action will be taken imminently in relation to any offences identified," said Insp. McSweeney in relation to the incident that took place in the vicinity of the Five Arches, where eventually the large group of men were removed from the town.

"This was an isolated incident, and I'm keen that it should not tarnish the good work that has been seen over the past months," he explained.

"I would also like to thank door staff who were initially on the scene before the arrival of my officers, and I acknowledge and am grateful for their efforts.

"It is important to note that three officers were at the scene within less than a minute of the report being received, who were then supported by numerous other officers.

"We have a good working relationship with the licensees and door staff in Tenby, and look to move on from this incident," he continued.

Insp. McSweeney said that there was an ongoing thorough investigation into this particular incident, and that he had visited the party involved at the private function to discuss the events of that evening, and was keeping them updated throughout.

He stated that the police were still appealing for information, and anyone who witnessed the incident or has information relating to that evening is asked to contact PC Setaro at Tenby Police Station by calling 101.

Clr. Mrs. Christine Brown praised the police and door staff for the way they handled the incident.

"I'd congratulate the police officers for clearing the culprits out of the town before anything else could happen. The licensees and police handled the incident very well.

"A lot of the detrimental effect it has had on publicity for Tenby in the media, seems to stem from stories that made the national press and an interview given on Radio Wales, where a lot of rumours were spoken of surrounding the build up to the incident that simply weren't true," she said.

Clr. Lawrence Blackhall asked if there could be more of a significant police presence around the town when big televised rugby internationals that attracted revellers to the resort took place.

Insp. McSweeney told councillors that the following weekend, another Wales autumn international had taken place on the Saturday along with the Tenby Blues Festival, and that no incidents had taken place in the town.

He also said that progress had been made in particular with the reduction in violent crime and anti-social behaviour over the last 12 months in the resort, due to Operation Lion.

"We'd like to reassure everyone in Tenby that we have the right resources for busy weekends such as 'Black Friday' leading up to Christmas and Boxing Day," he added.