Cameron joins police patrol

Tory Leader David Cameron paid an unexpected visit to Mid Wales to experience first-hand the fight against rural crime.

The Conservative leader paid an unpublicised visit to Powys to shadow a sergeant and see the daily problems and issues faced by Dyfed Powys Police.

Mr Cameron paid the low-key visit to Powys yesterday and Wednesday.

He spent time on the beat with Welshpool-based Sergeant Paul Herdman and was given access to all aspects of life in the force.

Mr Herdman said: "It was a worthwhile exercise. Mr Cameron exhibited extensive knowledge of policing. It was a privilege to have the ear of a potential prime minister for two days."

The "Webcameron" blog details his time in Powys and describes policing in Wales as "the thin blue line at its thinnest".

"Arriving here, with picturesque places like Welshpool and Newtown, it's hard to believe this is a hotbed of crime," he wrote.

"But Sergeant Paul Herdman tells me they are fighting towns and we're likely to see some action.

"We hit the road and things hot up. Three young men arrested for drugs in Newtown are swiftly cautioned and sent on their way.

"We set out to find a local drug dealer but are soon diverted to Welshpool to deal with yobs on a train.

"Then we spot a well-known local hard man heading in the opposite direction and turn and give chase. His car is untaxed and he is breaking the speed limit."

Mr Cameron goes on to detail some of the problems police in Powys suffer such as a lack of holding cells for prisoners or the sheer volume of paperwork they face.

Mr Cameron also dropped in to Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant Post Office.

A surprised postmistress Dot Scott said: "Two police officers came in with him and just asked if I knew who he was."

She added: "He was just interested in what's happening with the post office."

Dan Munford, former Montgomeryshire Welsh Assembly Conservative candidate and Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant resident, said: "It's a one in a 100 years experience and we are delighted to have him.

"We welcome top secret visits by leaders of any nationality."

By Tamlyn Jones