POLICE and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for North Wales, Andy Dunbobbin, visited Bryn Cadno Community Centre in Colwyn Bay on June 12 to meet with representatives from North Wales Horse Watch and to see their Rural Education Project in action.
During the visit, PCC Dunbobbin met Helen Lacey, Chair of North Wales Horse Watch who comes from Wrexham, Trustee Carol Allen from Holywell, and volunteer Kristan Weild from Connah’s Quay. The session formed part of the Rural Education Project, an initiative delivered by the charity across North Wales with money from the PCC’s Innovate to Grow fund, which helps foster new ways of preventing crime in the region. The project aims to deliver over 20 workshops across North Wales, reaching at least 400 participants including school groups, youth organisations, community groups, and adults with additional needs. The hope is to improve participants’ understanding of the Countryside Code, rural crime risks, and environmental responsibility.
The Rural Education Project was originally established in 2020 in response to growing concerns about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural communities and the need for increased education and support. It aims to prevent and tackle rural and wildlife crime while promoting problem-solving skills and proactive approaches to safety.
The Bryn Cadno session was delivered to a group of individuals with learning disabilities, focusing on the Countryside Code and providing practical advice for staying safe while enjoying the outdoors. The session included interactive activities led by Carol Allen, encouraging participants to engage with nature by exploring herbs and creating items such as coasters, badges and snapbands.
As an organisation, North Wales Horse Watch aims to inspire positive action to enhance and protect the natural environment through educational workshops designed for people of all ages and abilities. Their work covers a wide range of topics, from countryside awareness to wider safety issues. North Wales Horse Watch works closely with North Wales Police to manage and reduce risks, share information and identify potential dangers in the countryside. In recognition of her commitment to supporting North Wales Police and rural communities, Helen Lacey was awarded the prestigious Lord Ferrers Award by the Home Office.
The Rural Education Project also places a strong focus on wellbeing and engagement. A therapy dog named Quinn plays an important role in sessions, helping participants to feel relaxed, comfortable and confident in new environments. They also deliver sessions to community groups such as the Women’s Institute on topics including cyber crime.
Speaking about the visit, PCC Andy Dunbobbin said: “It was inspiring to see the fantastic work being delivered by North Wales Horse Watch through the Rural Education Project.
“This initiative not only helps tackle rural and wildlife crime but also empowers people of all abilities to enjoy the countryside safely and responsibly.
“The engagement, creativity and wellbeing support on display demonstrate the real value of investing in community-led projects through initiatives like my Innovate to Grow fund.”
Helen Lacey commented: “I would like to thank the PCC for taking the time to visit us and see first-hand how the Innovate to Grow funding is being used.
“The funding has enabled us to expand the work of the Rural Education Project, helping us deliver engaging and accessible learning opportunities to people who might otherwise not have access to them.
“We see participants growing in confidence, developing new skills an, making friends and becoming more involved in their community.
“The Innovate to Grow fund has not simply funded activities it has helped create opportunities, reduce barriers, improve lives and increase knowledge about crime prevention and rural safety.”
To find out more, visit the Rural Education Project website.
