THE BBC have defended its report of Rhyl after an MP called it 'damaging and emotive'.

Dr James Davies, Vale of Clwyd MP, has called on the BBC to feature a follow up story on Rhyl, highlighting the positive work that is being carried out in the town.

This comes after the BBC branded Rhyl "the most violent neighbourhood in Wales" in a number of news broadcasts and in an article online.

A BBC News Spokesperson, who said they had contacted Dr Davies directly, said: "This was the first in a series of reports monitoring the progress of the UK government’s ‘levelling up’ agenda. We spent time in Rhyl and met with North Wales Police to discuss our findings.

"We intend to keep returning to the town to reflect the views of local residents and organisations.

"We included in our coverage the positive work of those people who are working hard to improve the area – and will continue to do so – but we also have a duty to balance that with an honest account of the problems they face."

Dr Davies claimed, following the initial BBC report, that residents and businesses would be put visiting and investing in Rhyl.

He believes the BBC’s narrative was too "hard hitting" and failed to focus on any of the positive work that is being done to regenerate the town.

“There are problems in the town that need addressing and I am working with the police on this," he said.

"In particular, we need greater police visibility and attention to antisocial behaviour in the town centre. However, the BBC report went too far.

"I discussed the report with the North Wales Chief Constable earlier in the week, and with both Supt Simon Williams and the new PCC Andy Dunbobbin. I have also been in conversation with the Leader of Denbighshire County Council.

“Rhyl certainly has it challenges, but this type of reporting is irresponsible and damaging and the last thing the town needs as it recovers from the pandemic.

"I hope the BBC consider my suggestion to run follow-up pieces to provide viewers with a wider picture of Rhyl.”

The BBC research claimed Rhyl is one of the most violent and deprived areas in England and Wales.

The article states: "The number of serious offences went up every year for four years until the first coronavirus lockdown."

See the BBC written article here.