Extra police patrols at hospital

The extra patrols are in reaction to a series of thefts

Police are putting on extra patrols at one of south Wales' busiest hospitals after a series of thefts there.

Officers are to patrol the Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport after concern was raised about crime levels in and around the site.

Three thefts have taken place at the hospital since Saturday and concerns over the safety of staff leaving work have mounted in recent weeks.

Gwent Police say the extra patrols will "bolster" the hospital's own security.

Insp Chris Watts said police will patrol the hospital building as well as its car parks.

"I want to assure the public that the Royal Gwent is already a safe place as it already has its own excellent security team.

"But due to a number of incidents in recent weeks, we have decided to put on these patrols to bolster their efforts.

"We have identified problem periods and will have officers there at those times to offer reassurance to both staff and patients.

"The hospital patrols should help deter criminals who may target the hospital."

The police have urged patients and staff at the site to be vigilant and to keep their belongings in a safe place.