Wrist bands in Llandudno Safe Child Scheme for shoppers

The scheme is backed with funding from the Proceeds of Crime Act, and sponsorship from local businesses

Businesses have joined police to launch a safety scheme for lost children in the Conwy seaside town of Llandudno aimed at giving adults peace of mind.

Uniquely numbered wrist bands which show parents' telephone numbers can be picked up by adults at the start of a shopping trip.

The idea is that any child separated from an adult can then be quickly reunited with them.

A similar scheme a few years ago had to be abandoned due to lack of funding.

But this time it is being paid for with funding from the Proceeds of Crime Act - under which the courts can recover money and assets acquired illegitimately - and by local businesses.

The Llandudno Safe Child Scheme will cover the town from the pier to the retail parks.

Parents can collect the bands, which have unique numbers and which will carry their contact details, but not the name of the child.

"It's not just the police perspective, it's also about being a mum, ensuring that your children are secure when you go shopping in the town," said police community support officer (PCSO) Sarah Curry.

Sue Nash, manager of the Victoria Centre, said: "If they have a band on their wrist then it will enable parents to be found much quicker, and it will give them peace of mind".

Ifan Hughes, community safety officer with North Wales Police, said: "Sometimes the children who get lost are so young and so upset that they can't tell anyone who their parents are.

"No-one can do anything to help until the child sees mum or dad, but with a contact number on the wrist band it will make things much easier."

Bands will be available from any shops or businesses which display the child safety sign, and security staff in Parc Llandudno will also have them available.