Plan for police museum in Llandudno

Sep 30 2010 by Deborah James, North Wales Weekly News

THE first ever museum tracing the history of the police in North Wales is expected to open shortly.

Arrangements have been made for part of Llandudno Museum to be dedicated to memorabilia from the former five county forces which now make up the North Wales force.

An appeal has been launched for anyone with items of interest to loan or donate them.

One of the driving forces behind the project is ex-detective Gwyn Roberts from Caernarfon, who is secretary of the Denbigh branch of the National Association of Retired Police Officers, having served in the original Denbighshire Constabulary.

“Some items of historical interest such as certificates, badges and shields used to be on display in the foyer and conference room at headquarters in Colwyn Bay but, sadly, they were removed,” he said.

“We have tried to recover as many of them as possible and some were found in another part of the building, but unfortunately some items, including a gallantry medal, have not been found.”

Mr Roberts, who was instrumental in having Dr Kenneth Birch’s book The History of Policing in North Wales published after the author’s death a couple of years ago, said current chief constable Mark Polin was very supportive of the museum plan.

“I am sure many ex-officers or their widows must have a wealth of memorabilia such as documents, helmets, photographs, insignia, pieces of uniform and medals,” said Mr Roberts.

“We’re very grateful to Llandudno Museum for offering us the space which will allow us to display all our exhibits as one comprehensive collection.”

It is hoped to have the museum open by early 2011; anyone with artefacts is asked to contact Gwyn Roberts on 07720 532585.