A NEW mobile app aims to provide local people with the latest police information for their area, on the go.

Following on from the roll-out of its new community messaging system earlier this year, Dyfed-Powys Police has launched a mobile app that sends up-to-the-minute information on where you are, not just where you live.

Users can sign up online, after which they will receive localised notifications by email or text.

Launching the app, T/Assistant Chief Constable Pam Kelly, said: “This fast-time targeted messaging system is another tool on an officer’s belt.

"DPCM enables us to send messages very quickly to people in specific locations and, when it comes to safely policing large events like the Royal Welsh and Ironman Wales, the system really comes into its own.”

T/ACC Kelly is especially enthusiastic about the opportunities DPCM brings in helping safeguard communities and in preventing and detecting crime.

She said: “If we become aware of a spate of crimes in a community, the app will enable us to send a message which will hit the phones of all those in the affected area.

"We can ask people to be alert to suspicious activity around them or, use the system to undertake virtual house-to-house enquiries.”

"It’s an exciting system and I’m optimistic about the potential it holds for Dyfed-Powys Police.

"It needs followers for it to be successful though, so I urge people to download it now.”

Community messaging systems are on the increase in many police forces around England and Wales.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: “Dyfed-Powys is the largest geographical policing area of Wales and England - and with that come significant pockets of isolation.

We also have a high proportion of elderly people.

“Through DPCM, individuals or groups can cast nets around properties and locations of their choosing, meaning they can capture relevant information distributed by the police specific to an area of interest to them.”

“I urge people to take advantage of this, to pass messages to friends and family who are not online, to inform community groups and - where there aren’t any already established - be inspired to set up new ‘watches’.”

“Vulnerability through isolation is a real concern, but DPCM provides an opportunity for us all to engage and work together differently.”

For further information visit www.dpcm.co.uk , or speak to officers from your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Visit your smartphone app store and search ‘Dyfed Powys’ to download the app.