FAMILIES concerned for the safety of their children have been outside Pembroke Dock police station this morning.

Protesters, made up of parents from Monkton, Pembroke and Pembroke Dock, were joined by local councillor Pearl Llewellyn.

The issue: fears that a convicted sex offender had been re-homed in Monkton.

Locals are worried their village has been made a 'dumping ground' for dangerous criminals.

As tensions ran high, Dyfed-Powys Police Superintendent Ian John addressed a crowd outside the station.

He said he wanted to work with local people and address their concerns, but could not speak give out personal information about anyone, convicted or otherwise.

He said the woman in question was not required to make authorities aware of her movements, and had not been "placed" locally by the council, but had in fact "placed herself there".

Charlie Price, from Monkton, speaking on behalf of the group, said he had received more than 300 messages from people telling him the community was "doing the right thing" and offering help and support.

"All we want here today is answers," he said.

Milford Mercury: Charlie Price, from Monkton, has become an unofficial spokesman for the protesters. PICTURE: Martin CavaneyCharlie Price, from Monkton, has become an unofficial spokesman for the protesters. PICTURE: Martin Cavaney

Also in attendance was Kerry MacDermott, head of housing at Pembrokeshire County Council.

Milford Mercury: Head of housing for Pembrokeshire County Council, Kerry MacDermot, with superintendent Ian John and protesters. PICTURE: Martin CavaneyHead of housing for Pembrokeshire County Council, Kerry MacDermot, with superintendent Ian John and protesters. PICTURE: Martin Cavaney

Today's meeting follows a protest in the town yesterday.

On Tuesday night, more than 100 Monkton residents crowded around a house in Gwilliam Court, which they believed was housing a convicted sex offender.

Police officers from Dyfed-Powys Police and South Wales Police were called at around 10pm to disperse the crowd.

Two occupants were escorted from the property by police.

Milford Mercury: Police in Monkton on Tuesday night. PICTURE: Martin CavaneyPolice in Monkton on Tuesday night. PICTURE: Martin Cavaney

Plans are taking shape for a further protest outside County Hall in Haverfordwest tomorrow at 11am.

It is understood the county council is aware of the plans, and officer and councillors are meeting today to discuss the best way forward.

Following on from this morning’s meeting with members of the public in Pembroke Dock, Superintendent for Pembrokeshire, Ian John, has issued the following advice: "I strongly advise anyone who has information or concerns about the behaviour of individuals in their community to report it to the police and let us deal with it.

“We recognise the strength of feeling within Monkton and are working hard as your local police in carrying out our duty to make sure all members of our community are safe.

“Please do not get involved in any unlawful activity or take matters into your own hands. Where any criminal offences are committed, we will take appropriate action.”