Cannabis farm discovered at disused Llanelli town centre shop

Pllumb Krosi, aged 34, was arrested on Wednesday 30 April after officers from Carmarthenshire’s Priority Policing Team forced entry into a property on Vaughan Street, Llanelli to execute a pre-planned drugs warrant.

Upon entering via the back of the building, officers were faced with a large-scale cannabis farm spanning three floors, with sophisticated modifications to control the building’s temperature, lighting, ventilation, and electricity.

Krosi was found by officers in what was described as the “living quarters” of the cannabis farm before he was swiftly arrested and taken into custody. He was charged and remanded later that day.

Approximately £326,000 worth of cannabis plants were seized during the search, along with keys to a padlock fixed to a metal bar which had been set up to prevent anyone forcing entry to the building.

Appearing at Llanelli Magistrates court the very next day (1 May), Pllumb Krosi pleaded guilty to cultivating cannabis and was remanded into custody until his sentencing at Swansea Crown Court on Thursday, 29 May 2025.

Detective Sergeant Richard Saunders from Dyfed Powys Police said: “This is just one of many warrants carried out as part of Operation Scotney as we seek to disrupt the production of cannabis by organised crime gangs in our force area.

“I want to urge the public to remain vigilant to the signs of cannabis grows in their local area and to continue to report any concerns to police. This case shows our commitment to ensuring our force area remains hostile to those who deal drugs.”

#Cannabis #CannabisFarm #drugs #DyfedPowysPolice #Llanelli

Budget supermarket reveals not so Lidl expansion plans

Lidl GB has announced plans to invest half a billion pounds in its expansion, as the discounter moves forward with plans to open more than 40 new stores across the country this financial year.

In addition to the store openings, Lidl has also published a list of locations it wants to open new stores – including high streets, retail parks, and mixed-use town centre sites. This includes more than a dozen stores in South West Wales.

There are also places where the budget supermarket wants to relocate several existing stores to provide a larger building.

Lidl currently has 980 stores across the UK and employs over 34,000 people.

Richard Taylor, Chief Real Estate Officer at Lidl GB, said: “This level of investment is a clear sign of our ambition. As we enter our fourth decade in Great Britain and hurtle towards a thousand stores, there are still so many parts of the country crying out for convenient access to a Lidl store. That’s why we welcome the measures proposed in the Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill – they recognise the urgent need to remove barriers to development and support the kind of growth we at Lidl are working towards.”

“Our latest site requirements brochure reinforces the scale of our ambition for the future. New Lidl stores mean new jobs, new opportunities for British suppliers, and continued investment into local economies. We’re proud to be one of the fastest-growing supermarkets in the country, and with this investment, we’re taking another big step in our journey.”

All the places in South West Wales Lidl wants to open new stores

Swansea

Lidl has announced 3 locations in Swansea where it wants to open new stores in Morfa, Killay or Sketty and Mumbles. It has also said it wants to relocate its existing Penlan store.

Neath Port Talbot

The budget supermarket has said that it wants to open a new store in Port Talbot – East or Margam.

Carmarthenshire

Lidl wants to open new stores in two locations in Carmarthenshire. One in Burry Port and another to the North of Llanelli.

Pembrokeshire

The supermarket has revealed ambitions to open a one new store in Pembrokeshire, somewhere in Tenby. It also wants to relocate its existing Pembroke Dock store.

Bridgend County

There are four locations Lidl has aspirations to open new stores in Bridgend County, in Bridgend Town, Bridgend – East or Pencoed, Maesteg and Pyle.

South Powys

Lidl has said they’d like to open a new store in Ystradgynlais.

#Bridgend #BurryPort #Business #Killay #Lidl #Llanelli #Maesteg #Margam #MorfaRetailPark #Mumbles #PembrokeDock #Pencoed #Penlan #Pyle #retail #Sketty #supermarket #Swansea #Tenby #Ystradgynlais

Health board ‘considering position’ on planning appeal after Llanelli North Dock building sold

Hywel Dda had previously applied to Carmarthenshire Council for permission to use the former WRW offices in North Dock for a new Health and Wellbeing Centre to include relocating services such as the Dyfed Drug & Alcohol Service.

This application was ultimately rejected by Carmarthenshire County Council’s planning committee after a public campaign against the proposals.

The health board then mounted an appeal against the decision, however this week it was reported that the building has now been taken off the market and that Threshold DAS, an organisation aimed at supporting people affected by domestic abuse, have now had their offer on the building accepted and plan to move to the unit shortly. 

Hywel Dda University Health Board have now said they are considering their position with regards to the planning appeal, but still believe that a new integrated wellbeing centre is essential for the town.

Ardiana Gjini, Director of Public Health for Hywel Dda University Health Board said: “We have been made aware that the property in North Dock, Llanelli which the Area Planning Board had identified as an appropriate location for a new Health and Wellbeing Centre, has now been sold subject to contract.

“We are considering our position and will make a decision on whether to proceed with the planning appeal in the near future.

“Although this news is disappointing, we believe a new health improvement and well-being centre in Llanelli is essential to the health board’s strategy of shifting services from treating illness, to promoting and supporting wellness, working with partners, patients and public to enable our community to enjoy a healthy lifestyle and tackle the leading causes of preventable ill health and early death.”

(Lead image: Google Maps)

#HywelDdaNHS #Llanelli #NorthDock

Councils in South West Wales to get £27m boost to improve local transport

The grants from the Welsh Government will fund projects that improve the condition of local roads and address disruptions caused by severe weather; pilot new bus services and upgrade bus journey times and waiting facilities; and make it easier for people to walk, cycle and use wheelchairs.

It will also fund the installation of more publicly available electric vehicle charging points; the creation of safer routes for children to travel to schools; and improve road safety.

Swansea

Swansea Council will receive core transport funding of £1.11 million, plus £50,000 for the Clyne Common Active Travel scheme to provide a safe cycling and walking route from Bishopston and Murton across the common.

There is £600,000 for a ‘Northern City Link’ that would see improvements made to the A483 North of Cadle along Carmarthen Road, through Dyfatty and High Street to its junction with Welcome Lane in the city centre. This includes remodelling the busy Dyfatty junction, bus priority measures along the whole route as well as improvements for walking and cycling. The grant money would be for a traffic modelling exercise to look at the potential impacts of any changes to the road network.

£500,000 is to go towards work on the Swansea Bay and West Wales Metro. Swansea will act as host authority for the region with projects including the creation of a new Regional Transport Plan covering all of the local authorities in South West Wales.

There is £380,000 towards plans for a multi-modal transport interchange at the Dairy Car Park in Mumbles, with funding going towards talking to the community and business owners about the proposed design and engaging with landowners affected by the proposals.

Flood alleviation measures on the A4118 Gower Road in Killay and on the same road between Scurlage and Llandew will see £265,000 of grant funding from Welsh Government.

There’s also £333,700 for motorcycle safety provision, £205,000 for implementation of 20mph speed limits, £60,000 for Kerbcraft pedestrian training, £30,900 for National Standards Cycle Training and £3,250 for Bike Safe training.

There’s £208,700 of safe routes in communities funding for Penllergaer and

£233,500 for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The council will also adopt Cae Rowland St in Manselton thanks to £80,000 of grant funding.

Neath Port Talbot

Neath Port Talbot Council will receive core transport funding of £716,000, plus £990,000 for phase 1 of the Neath to Cilma active travel route.

There’s £730,000 for Cymmer carriageway improvements, £440,000 towards plans for an Integrated Transport Hub in Neath outside of Neath Train Station and £1.6 million to deal with drainage and flooding issues on the A483 Fabian Way.

There’s road safety grants of £890,000 for the A4241 between Harbourway and Rutherglen and £220,000 for the B4242 Ynysygerwn to Glynneath.

In addition, there’s £14,000 for Dragon Rider motorcycle training, £12,180 for Pass Plus driver training, £6,700 for National Standards Cycle Training, £5,600 for Kerbcraft pedestrian training, £5,500 for Mega Drive pre-driver training for ages 16 to 18, £3,720 for First Responder (FBOS), £3,500 for Drive for Life, £3,000 for level 3 National Standards Cycle Training.

£50,000 will go towards creating a safe route between Coed Darcy and Skewen.

Carmarthenshire

Carmarthenshire Council will receive core funding of £732,000, plus £1.14 million for a replacement for Black Bridge in Llanelli that would see the construction of a new ramped access and shared use bridge for cycling and walking linking to previously completed routes to Trostre and Halfway with access to Pentre Awel and the Millenium Coastal Path.

There’s also £2.05 million towards the proposed Llanelli Interchange at the train station, as well as £574,000 for the A484 Sandy Road improvement scheme.

The council will get £1.5 million for highway drainage improvements across the county, as well as £520,000 for safety improvements to the B4304 Station Road and New Dock Road in Llanelli.

There’s £450,000 for the implementation of 20mph speed limits, £41,500 for Kerbcraft pedestrian training, £34,000 for active travel and road safety training, £28,120 for National Standards Cycle Training, £5,880 for Dragon Rider motorcycle training and £4,200 for Biker Down motorcycle training.

A safe routes in communities scheme in Five Roads will also receive £712,305.

Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire Council will receive core transport funding of £500,000, plus £802,880 for Saundersfoot shared use paths at Stammers and Frances Road.

There’s also £6.07 million towards the Milford Haven Transport Interchange project which sees improvement works to the existing Milford Haven train station to create a new public transport interchange, by relocating the existing rail platform and providing a dedicated bus interchange between the station and retail area, along with a, taxi rank, formalised car park, public realm spaces and improved Active Travel links.

£1.1 million will go towards projects in Newgale, including rerouting the Newgale section of the A487, creating a new walking and cycling path through the village, changing access to the beach and coastal businesses and releasing space for the beach to naturally adapt to coastal change.

In addition there is £39,200 for Kerbcraft pedestrian training, £32,080 for National Standards Cycle Training, £3,500 for Mature Driver training for ages 65 and over, £2,520 for Dragon Rider motorcycle training and £1,200 for Biker Down courses.

£500,000 has been given to the council towards EV Charger Network rationalisation and £84,000 for the council to adopt Mayfield Acres in Kilgetty.

Responding to the Welsh Government grant, Pembrokeshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said: “This is tremendous news for Milford Haven and allows us to move forward on a scheme that has been in development over a number of years. Not only will this significantly help the overall look of the station approach, it will also hopefully lead to better connectivity along the network for our own residents and also encourage more tourist visits. As this is an interchange scheme, it will also help us link up buses and taxis in a more seamless way.”

Bridgend County

Bridgend County Borough Council will receive core transport funding of £707,000 from Welsh Government, plus £119,000 for phase 1 of the council’s Pen y Fai active travel scheme that looks to create a shared pedestrian and cycle track from the safe crossing point along Tondu Road into Bridgend town centre, including work to improve the A4063 Pen-Y-Fai Junction.

Other funding commitments include £226,000 for Bridgend Bus Station information displays and £357,000 for improvements to the A4061 from the Junction 36 on the M4 to Heol Canola, Sarn. There’s also £137,000 for improvements to the A4064 King Edward Street in Blaengarw.

Welsh Government have given Bridgend County Borough Council £208,689 for implementation of 20mph speed limits, £29,636 for Kerbcraft pedestrian training and £25,440 for National Standards Cycle Training.

There is also £104,000 for residential charge point initiative and £16,000 towards the adoption of Lakeview Close, Porthcawl.

Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Ken Skates, said: “Connecting communities and delivering better transport for all is at the heart of this £27 million investment. We want to make it easier for people to travel to work, school, healthcare and to see friends and family, while also building a more sustainable transport network for future generations.

“These improvements will make real differences to everyday journeys – whether that’s safer routes, better paths for walking, wheeling and cycling, or more reliable bus services. We’re working with councils to ensure this money delivers the greatest benefits to communities across Wales.”

#A4063 #A4118 #A4241 #A483 #A484 #ActiveTravel #B4304 #BridgendCouncil #CarmarthenRoad #Carmarthenshire #featured #GowerRoad #Junction36 #Llanelli #NeathPortTalbot #Newgale #Pembrokeshire #SandyRoad #StationRoad #Swansea #Transport #TransportInterchange #WelshGovernment

Council to trial new seasonal school dinner menu – with veggies grown on its own farm

Carmarthenshire Council say the pilot aims to align public sector catering with local and national policies, including environmental sustainability, rural economic growth, and net-zero targets.

The Council has commissioned the local non-profit organisation, Cegin y Bobl, to work with Ysgol Teilo Sant, Llandeilo Primary School and Ysgol Pen Rhos in Llanelli, in co-creating the new menus.

Catering staff, teachers, parents, and children are joining chefs and educators from Cegin y Bobl to develop nutritious meals that will be served in the schools’ canteens. The redesigned menus are being created to reflect the seasonality of Welsh produce, which helps increase local economic impact and reduce reliance on imported food.

As a result, fresh, seasonal produce from Bremenda Farm in Llanarthne will be grown specifically for schools across the academic calendar. This 100-acre farm, owned by the Local Authority, is being used as a trial location to grow high-quality, affordable fruit and vegetables for the public plate.

The council says this initiative supports local agriculture, reduces the environmental impact of food production and transportation, and introduces children to the benefits of eating fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The redesigned menus will be introduced to the three participating schools in September 2025, with plans for a county-wide rollout in September 2026. A recipe file will also be made available as an open-source resource for other local authorities in Wales, helping other schools integrate sustainable food practices.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Rural Affairs, Planning and Community Cohesion, Cllr Carys Jones, said: “By involving the entire school community, we’re creating a collaborative approach to better food choices. This initiative isn’t just about changing menus; it’s about helping young people understand where their food comes from, why it matters, and how it connects to a healthier future for both them and the planet.”

(Lead image: Carmarthenshire Council)

#Carmarthenshire #CarmarthenshireCouncil #Farming #foodDrink #Llanarthney #Llandeilo #LlandeiloPrimarySchool #Llanelli #schoolDinner #YsgolPenRhos #YsgolTeiloSant

Llanelli Leisure Centre could become new home for Ysgol Dewi Sant

Once completed, the council’s new Pentre Awel development at Delta Lakes will house brand new leisure centre facilities.

The council are now debating the use of the current Llanelli leisure centre site, with education chiefs suggesting that it is used as a location for a new Ysgol Dewi Sant.

Council officers will now assess the site to see if it is suitable for a new school, and put forward an outline planning application.

Councillor Glynog Davies, the council’s cabinet member for education and Welsh language said: “The outcome of the outline planning will inform the possibility of locating the replacement school building for Ysgol Gymraeg Dewi Sant on the Llanelli Leisure Centre site,” 

Original £9.1m plans to relocate Ysgol Dewi Sant to recreational land in the Llanerch area of Llanelli was put on hold in 2018 before finally being shelved in 2020 following local resident’s concerns.

Chairman of Ysgol Dewi Sant’s governing body, Michael Bassett said: “We have trusted the process set by the authority of earmarking a suitable site and are pleased to hear that the authority is investigating a particular site in the hope that it will offer our school a suitable new home.

“A recent report by Estyn inspectors states that teaching standards at the school are of the highest standard, and I would like to thank all the school staff and pupils for their patience and excellent work. We very much hope that these early investigations will enable the school to develop and promote the Welsh language in the town.”

Rob James, an Independent Llanelli Councillor who represents the Lliedi ward who attended Ysgol Dewi Sant as a child, said he and the late Cllr Anthony Leyshon, who had also attended the school, had met council officers to press the case for a new site for Ysgol Dewi Sant over a period of years.

Cllr Rob James said: “We can finally announce that Carmarthenshire Council will soon commence investigative work on the suitability of using the current Llanelli Leisure Centre for the new Ysgol Gymraeg Dewi Sant.

“Cllr Anthony Leyshon and I discussed the need for a new site to be identified for the school over the last few years with senior council officers and it is fantastic that investigative works will soon begin.

“There are a number of challenges and opportunities in using the current leisure site for the school and I am eager to hear from pupils, teachings staff, parents and residents on this proposal.”

Concerns have already been raised around the suitability of the site to accommodate the anticipated additional school traffic on Park Crescent and Old Castle Road, as well as the need to segregate traffic and parking for the adjacent Selwyn Samuel Centre.

Campaigners have also raised the need to find a new location for Heol Goffa special school, and how this is a more pressing need than relocating Ysgol Dewi Sant.

Writing on social media, Richard Joseph Young said: “Why not use it for Heol Goffa school. Ramps, lifts, pools to use for hydrotherapy. Parking and parks near. Come on use your small brain. After 10 years of lies for Heol Goffa school, you owe it to these children and their parents.”

Carol West added: “You do have the Selwyn Samuel there with constant traffic. And access isn’t good. Cars park everywhere when picking up. Have you seen the road at the moment around Dewi Sant.. It’s gridlock. I don’t see where in that area you could accommodate that amount of traffic”

Deb Messing also thought the site would be better used for Heol Goffa, saying: “It’s a great location for Heol Goffa and most Heol Goffa children are taken to school by mini bus. Rather than individual children in individual cars so a lot less cars than if Dewi Sant was there. Then the existing Heol Goffa site could be used as a site for the new Dewi Sant, ideal location as it is in the same area. Parents without transport would have a lot further to walk to town.”

No decision has yet been made on the future of Heol Goffa school.

(Lead image: Google Maps)

#CarmarthenshireCouncil #CllrGlynogDavies #CllrRobJames #education #featured #LeisureCentre #Llanelli #LlanelliLeisureCentre #newSchool #PentreAwel #YsgolDewiSant

Llanelli North Dock building subject of controversial health board plans taken off the market

The building had previously attracted interest from Hywel Dda University Health Board, whose proposed change of use sparked significant controversy within the local business community and among residents of Glanymor Ward. The proposal to relocate the Dyfed Drug & Alcohol Service (DDAS) was ultimately rejected by Carmarthenshire County Council’s planning committee but the ‘Area Planning Board’ still decided to submit an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. 

It has been confirmed however that Threshold DAS, an organisation aimed at supporting people affected by domestic abuse, have now had their offer accepted and plan to move to the Unit shortly. 

Formerly known as Llanelli Women’s Aid, Threshold has been operating in Llanelli for over 40 years and is currently based on John Street in the town.

Victoria Pedicini, Chief Executive Officer of Threshold DAS said: “For a couple of years, we have been searching for suitable premises to accommodate our growing staff team at Threshold DAS. Securing this building in North Dock is a fantastic opportunity for us, and I’m really pleased to have finally found a space that meets our needs. It’s the perfect place for us to develop and expand our team, as well as increase our capacity to support the community. I’m absolutely thrilled to be moving and delighted that our offer has been accepted. We plan to move to North Dock as soon as the transaction is completed and hope to be settled in before the end of the summer.

“The local residents have been incredibly supportive and are welcoming Threshold’s move to the area. It’s really important to us to know that the community values our presence and supports the work we do. Having that backing gives us confidence as we continue to grow and strengthen our services.

“Our new building will primarily be used as office space for our staff, allowing us to operate more efficiently and continue our vital work in the community. At the same time, I’m committed to maintaining our presence at John Street, which will stay open as a community drop-in centre and food bank. It’s really important to us that we keep that connection and continue to offer accessible support right in the heart of the community.

“This new building marks an important new chapter for Threshold. It allows us to grow sustainably while continuing to be present where people need us most. I’m really looking forward to this next step and am truly grateful for the ongoing support from the community.

Juliet Phillips-James, Chair of Threshold DAS said: “We’re delighted to have secured new premises here in North Dock, Llanelli which will provide a much-improved working environment for our dedicated staff. As Chair of Threshold, I have witnessed how the charity has grown greatly and prospered over the last decade. Whilst this is an achievement and a credit to those who work in and manage Threshold it has caused logistical issues in that we have outgrown our existing premises. The new premises provide a functional space to allow us to collaborate more effectively and grow our services as we continue to support the Llanelli community. We’re incredibly excited about this move.

Sean Rees and Louvain Roberts, County Councillors for Glanymor Ward added: “We would like to wish Victoria and her team at Threshold all the very best with their move to North Dock. This is very positive news for our community which we know will be warmly welcomed by all. 

“Following this latest development, we are now urging the ‘Area Planning Board’ to cancel the planning hearing appeal currently scheduled for Wednesday 30th April this to avoid any unnecessary cost to taxpayers or potential judicial review should it be needed.”

Cllrs Rees and Roberts have previously called for Hywel Dda health board to to scrap plans to move its drug and alcohol unit to the former WRW building in North Dock and to consider the the empty Ty’r Nant council-owned building in Trostre instead.

#CllrLouvainRoberts #CllrSeanRees #domesticAbuse #HywelDdaNHS #Llanelli #NorthDock #ThresholdDAS

Family pay tribute to man who died in Llanelli crash the day after his 25th birthday

Aron Sinclair, from Ammanford was involved in a collision on the A4138 Llanelli to Hendy road at around 10.50pm.

Aron’s family said: “We as a family are devastated at the loss of Aron, a loving son, brother, nephew and grandson.

“Aron had only just celebrated his 25th birthday on the day prior to the collision, Tuesday April 1.

“We are heartbroken at the sudden loss of such a valued member of the family.”

Earlier today, Police reported that a second person has also died in hospital, following the collision on the A4183 between the Llangennech roundabout and the Crematorium roundabout on Wednesday, April 2.

(Lead image: Family Photo)

#A4138 #Ammanford #DyfedPowysPolice #fatalAccident #Llanelli #Llangennech #RoadTrafficAccident

Second person dies after Llanelli A4138 collision

Dyfed Powys Police have confirmed that the driver of a black Peugeot involved in the collision on Wednesday 2 April has sadly died in hospital.

The late night collision took place around 10.50pm, where the driver of a second vehicle, a silver BMW, also sadly died.

The busy A4138, which connects Llanelli with the M4 at Hendy, was closed for around 10 hours while accident investigators were on the scene.

Police say they are continuing to investigate the collision and are appealing for anyone with information that could help their investigation to contact them.

A spokesperson for Dyfed Powys Police said: “Sadly, we can confirm that a second person has died following the collision on the A4183 between the Llangennech roundabout and the Crematorium roundabout on Wednesday, April 2.

“The driver of the black Peugeot, involved in the collision, died in hospital on Saturday, April 5.

“Our thoughts remain with the families at this difficult time.

“Officers are continuing to investigate the collision and anyone with information that could help the investigation is asked to contact police.”

(Lead image: Google Maps)

#A4138 #DyfedPowysPolice #fatalAccident #Llanelli #Llangennech #RoadTrafficAccident

New Llanelli store ‘thriving’ at former Wilko’s

The Scarborough based family-owned department store group W Boyes & Co Ltd opened its doors late last year and has made waves in the town centre according to the council.

This marks the 87th Boyes store in the UK and the very first store in Wales.

The store sells a range of goods including everyday essentials, fashions and footwear, household goods, craft and hobby items, electrical, DIY and leisure products.

Wilko closed its St Elli Centre store in August 2022, with its second store remaining open in the out-of-town Trostre Retail Park until the chain went into administration in September 2022.

Boyes opened in the St Elli Centre unit in December 2024.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Cllr Hazel Evans commented: “It is wonderful that Boyes have chosen Llanelli for its first store in Wales and taking up permanent residence in the St Ellis Centre.

“The store was once home to Wilko before its closure, so it is great to see this impressive shop front in use again, welcoming visitors and shoppers. I hope the store goes from strength to strength”.

(Lead image: Carmarthenshire Council)

#Boyes #Business #CarmarthenshireCouncil #Llanelli #retail #StElliShoppingCentre

Bafta Winning Director runs Videography Course in Llanelli

Nick Skinner, who has worked for shows like Crimewatch and Antiques Roadshow, has been making promotional videos for the past five years.

The trained teacher wants to pass on his skill to marketers who don’t want the expense of hiring a videographer to create content.

“Businesses and charities are desperate for video content as it is the best way to generate engagement online. But they are struggling to get the quality right, and many don’t know where to start.

“There’s a real lack of training in this kind of thing so I thought I’d fill the gap.”

The first event, in Barry, sold out in just four days, and he was keen to spread the courses around Wales.

“I was speaking at an event in Swansea a couple of weeks ago and I was blown away by the response,” he said.

“So I thought I would run my second course in the west – and found the Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli was a perfect venue.”

The Videography for Marketing Course will teach delegates professional filming techniques, and give them pro-tips as they learn how to edit their videos.

“No prior experience is needed to come on the course. But I know there are lots of people out there who have experience but are struggling to make video they are happy with. The course is perfect for them too,” he said.

Since leaving the BBC in 2020 Mr Skinner has built up a formidable reputation as a teacher as well as developing his production company, Rough Cut Media.

He leads a videography module at Cardiff University and teaches at the National Film and Television School. He also trains digital journalists at S4C, and has run training for a number of other organisations. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy – the main qualification for university teaching.

In future he plans courses in different parts of Wales on videography, video editing and AI, which he currently teaches to postgraduate students.

“If Llanelli is a popular venue we will be coming back to run more courses. This kind of course tends to run in places like Cardiff and Swansea but it’s important to offer it across the country.”

Tickets are available via the Wales based ticketing agency Ticketsource: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/rough-cut-media

(Lead image: Huw John)

#Business #film #filmMaking #Llanelli #Marketing #StradeyParkHotel #videography

Police appeal for information after fatal Llanelli collision

The collision involving a silver BMW and a black Peugeot 208 happened around 10.50pm last night (Wednesday 2 April).

Police say the driver of the BMW died following the accident. The Peugeot driver is in a critical condition in hospital.

The busy A4138, which connects Llanelli with the M4 at Hendy, was closed for around 10 hours while accident investigators were on the scene.

Police are now appealing for anyone who witnessed the accident or who may have dashcam footage to get in touch.

A spokesperson for Dyfed Powys Police said: “We are appealing for information about a fatal collision on the A4138 between the Llangennech roundabout and the Llanelli Crematorium roundabout, Carmarthenshire, which occurred at round 10.50pm on Wednesday, April 2.

“The collision involved a silver BMW and a black Peugeot 208.

“Sadly, the driver of the BMW died as a result of their injuries. Their next of kin has been informed.

“The driver of the Peugeot remains in hospital in a critical condition.

“The road was closed for collision investigation and was reopened by 8.45am today (April 3)

“Anyone who may have been travelling along the A4138 at the time, is asked to contact police.

“Investigating officers would particularly like to speak to any motorists who were in the area at that time who have dash cam in their vehicles.”

(Lead image: Google maps)

#A4138 #DyfedPowysPolice #fatalAccident #Llanelli #RoadTrafficAccident

Don’t miss the bus: First Cymru makes raft of timetable changes to improve punctuality

The changes start from Sunday 27 April and affect services in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Bridgend and Vale of Glamorgan.

Service 111 from Swansea to Llanelli will see its early morning 6.15am service start 5 minutes later.

Service 4 and 4A from Singleton Hospital to Morriston Hospital through Swansea city centre will see a revised timetable to aid punctuality. The last evening trip on the service 4A will operate via Parc Gwernfadog on the way to Morriston Hospital.

Service 16 from Swansea to Pontarddulais will see changes to the route through Gowerton, with the service no longer calling at Gowerton Surgery and Mount Street stops on journeys towards Swansea. Instead journeys will operate via Mill Street, Gorwydd Road, Sterry Road, Cecil Road, Mansel Street and Hill Street.

Service 20 will see its timetable revised to aid punctuality. An additional morning journey will operate on school days only from Olchfa School.

Service 25 will operate every 30 minutes every Sunday from 27 April 2025.

Service 28 will have its timetable revised to aid punctuality. A 30 minute frequency will remain on the Swansea to Penlan and Penplas trip and buses will operate via Heol Cadifor in both directions hourly.

Elsewhere in Swansea, services 6, 12, 13, 20A, 21, 24, 31, 34, 36 and 38 will also see timetable changes to improve reliability.

In Neath Port Talbot, services 56, 59, 84, X3, X5, X6 and X7 will also see timetable changes.

Bridgend County service 70 will see its route changed to call at Maesteg’s Tesco in both directions from 27 April 2025.

Elsewhere in Bridgend County and Vale of Glamorgan, services 63, 73, X2, X3, 303 and 304 will also see timetable changes to improve punctuality.

Timetables for the services have been published to First Cymru’s website.

(Lead image: First Cymru)

#Bridgend #Bus #featured #FirstCymru #Llanelli #NeathPortTalbot #Swansea

Health board lays out options for Llanelli Minor Injuries Unit

The Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) was introduced to Prince Philip Hospital following the downgrading of its Accident and Emergency department ten years ago.

The 24 hour unit has been operating with a reduced 12 hour opening time since November 2024 due to staffing issues and safety concerns.

The change to remove overnight coverage has proved controversial, with campaigners from Save Our Services Prince Philip Action Network (SOSPPAN) amassing nearly 15,000 petition signatures in a matter of weeks urging a U-turn by the health board. At the time of the cuts, campaigers from SOSPPAN said “There are very real fears that lives will be lost unless the MIU is reinstated urgently”.

The Health Board have now said they will consult with staff, the local community and stakeholders on four proposed options for the future of the service.  

They are:  

• Option 1 – Doctor-led 12 hours (current temporary model) 
• Option 2 – Doctor-led 14 hours 
• Option 3 – Doctor-led phased (initially 12 hours, increasing to 14 hours, then 24 hours as staffing allows) 
• Option 4 – Urgent care centre (Same Day Urgent Care type model) 14 hours 

The health board say that people will have an opportunity to share their views on the proposed options and impacts they may have, as well as propose alternative options. 

Mark Henwood, Interim Executive Medical Director, encouraged the community to get involved: “We understand how important this service is to the people of Llanelli, and we are committed to providing a solution that meets the needs of the community while ensuring safe, high-quality care. We want to work together to make the right decision. Your involvement will be invaluable in helping us make the right decision for the future.”   

The health board said that in the meantime, the current temporary opening hours at the MIU, of 8.00am to 8.00pm will continue. 

The hospital’s Acute Medical Assessment Unit (AMAU) is unaffected by these changes, and still provides 24 hour a day treatment for very sick adult medical patients, such as those who have suffered a stroke or heart attack. The service must be accessed via 999, 111 or GP referral.   

(Lead image: Google Maps)

#featured #Llanelli #MinorInjuriesUnit #MIU #PrincePhilipHospital

Councillors call for Llanelli drugs and alcohol unit to move to Trostre

Hywel Dda Health Board are to appeal against the decision of Carmarthenshire County Council ‘Planning Committee’ refusal to relocate Llanelli Drug & Alcohol Service (DDAS) to the former WRW Anchor Point Unit at North Dock. An Inspector has now been appointed by Welsh Government ministers to decide if this will go ahead.

Sean Rees and Louvain Roberts, Independent County Councillors for the Glanymor Ward have expressed concerns at the way the situation continues to be handled and have urged Carmarthenshire County Council, Hywel Dda Health Board and the Welsh Government to explore all of the options available to them before a decision is reached on the relocation of the service.

The councillors say that where they fully recognise the need for the service to leave the town centre, it has been highlighted how the beach area which is a residential, recreational, tourist and business area in nature is not suitable given there is a children playground and a dock itself which presents a number of health & safety concerns which must be addressed under a duty of care for both clients who would use the service and members of the community.

A Freedom of Information request submitted by the Councillors has also revealed that the total funding to be granted for the move to North Dock and the Beach area is £860,000 from the Welsh Government ‘Substance Misuse Action Fund (SMAF) Capital Programme. It has further been revealed that an alternative location put forward that of the Ty’r Nant building in Trostre is structurally sound and can be brought back into use should it be considered as an option by the Health Board.

The County Council is currently looking at alternative options for the Ty’r Nant property after it rejected proposals by supermarket Lidl to build a new store on the site, along with a drive-through Tim Hortons coffee outlet.

The Planning Hearing Appeal is taking place on Wednesday 30th April starting at 9.30am in the Selwyn Samuel Centre. A protest has been organised outside the venue from 8.45am on the day.  

Councillors Rees and Roberts said: “We feel strongly that not all options have been considered. The Ty’r Nant building ticks all the boxes in terms of meeting requirements needed for this service and should be considered. Despite requests being made, no Risk Assessment nor that of a Community Impact Assessment have been undertaken. All of us have a duty of care to our residents and to visitors to the area. The health & safety of everyone has to come first.

“Following a review undertaken just earlier this year, evidence has been presented showing an increase in reported crime within the locality. This led to the North Dock area now being covered by a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). This is also enforced by Dyfed-Powys Police. A very clear message has been sent to the ‘Area Planning Board’. They do not have public confidence on side and their proposal has already been overwhelmingly rejected by both our community and by members of the Planning Committee. 

“We will continue to challenge this appeal and are prepared to explore all options available to us. We are now urging all the powers that be to look at the alternative suggestions in the interests of everyone.”

Dr Ardiana Gjini, Executive Director of Public Health at Hywel Dda University Health Board said: “Following consideration with our partners, we have come to the conclusion that there is a need for a Health and Well-being Centre in Carmarthenshire and that the Anchor Point building in North Dock is the best place for this.

“A new health improvement and well-being centre in Llanelli is essential to the health board’s strategy of shifting services from treating illness, to promoting and supporting wellness, working with partners, communities, patients and public to enable our community to enjoy a healthy lifestyle and tackle the leading causes of preventable ill health and early death.

“Smoking, alcohol and drug misuse are among the leading causes of preventable ill health and early death and tackling these issues are strategic priorities for the health board and members of the Area Planning Board.

“We engaged with the local community at the time of the original application and although some concerns were raised, there was also support shown for the plans by the local community during the consultation events and at the planning committee.

“The health board will continue to engage with the local community regarding this proposed development.”

#CllrLouvainRoberts #CllrSeanRees #drugAndAlcoholService #featured #HywelDdaNHS #Llanelli #NorthDock #Trostre

Over 120 Llanelli people identified as ‘money mules’ in fraud investigation

Economic Crime Team officers from Dyfed-Powys Police identified the individuals as part of an ongoing criminal investigation and issued notices advising them to stop the activity immediately or face prosecution.

Throughout February, the team visited people who had been linked with a suspected fraudster, as part of Operation Henhouse – a month-long nationwide clampdown on fraud offences.

On speaking to those involved, officers learned how the individuals opened online bank accounts using their personal information and identification and gave their account login details to criminals in return for cash, who then used their bank accounts to launder money obtained through crime.

The team offered safeguarding advice and warned them about the dangers of opening bank accounts to be used by someone else for criminal activity. 

Many were unaware of the implications of what they had done and thought it was an easy way to make some money. Some were given financial gifts ranging from £50 to £200, while others were promised money but did not receive it.

Dyfed-Powys Police Fraud Investigator Sian Stevens said: “Through intelligence, we were made aware of a fraudster who recruited a number of people in the Llanelli area to open bank accounts, which were then subsequently used for money laundering purposes.

“The Economic Crime Team visited over 120 individuals in February to explain that they had been used as a money mule – this is someone, who has allowed their bank account to be used to send criminal money. We issued them with cease and desist notice to interrupt any further fraud by making sure they were aware what they were doing was a criminal activity.  

“Many of the people were linked to each other. Some were family members or in the same friendship groups, ranging from young adults to pensioners. The accounts had been opened as a direct or indirect interaction with the fraudster. 

“For example, there were some instances where an individual opened a bank account after contact with the fraudster and then went on to tell their friends, ‘you can earn £50 if you open up a bank account and give the details to this person’ and so on. That was just one of many examples how the fraudster managed to obtain personal bank details.”

Dyfed-Powys Police Economic Crime Team Manager Paul Callard said: “People fall victim to fraud every day and the impact on victims can be devastating, both financially and emotionally.

“They can be taken advantage of by criminals and encouraged to allow their accounts to be used. People should be very careful about who they provide their personal information to.

“We will not tolerate fraudulent activity and will look to tackle criminals at every opportunity.”

(Lead image: stock photo)

#DyfedPowysPolice #fraud #Llanelli

Trains cancelled after person killed on railway lines near Llanelli

British Transport Police say they are working to identify the individual as part of their investigations into the incident near Llanelli.

A spokesperson for the British Transport Police said: “Officers were called to the line in Llanelli at 9.40am this morning (21 March) following reports of a casualty on the tracks.

“Paramedics also attended however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers are working to identify the person and establish the full circumstances behind their death.”

(Lead image: Transport for Wales)

#BritishTransportPolice #HeartOfWales #Llanelli #trains

Knife crime measures an ‘important step forward’ says Llanelli MP

Dame Nia Griffith MP hailed the UK Government’s new Crime and Policing Bill as “an important step forward” to reverse the increase in knife crime related incidents that has been seen across the UK, including in Dyfed Powys where it has gone up by a whopping 243% since 2015.

The Bill, currently making its way through Parliament, will give the police new powers to seize, retain and destroy knives held in private, applicable when the police believe the knife will be used in a violent crime.

It also includes strong new rules to prevent online knife sales, including personal liability for senior managers of online platforms who fail to act on illegal content including knives and offensive weapons.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper will also introduce a new offence of possession of an offensive weapon with intent to use unlawful violence. It also increases the maximum penalty for offences relating to the sale of offensive weapons.

The Bill will also strengthen age verification requirements for online sale of bladed products. The law will be named after 16-year old Ronan Kanda, stabbed to death in Wolverhampton by a boy who had used his mother’s ID to purchase a 22-inch sword online.

Dame Nia Griffith, Labour MP for Llanelli, said: “This legislation to crack down on knife crime and protect local communities is an important step forward. Far too many young lives are being lost to violence, with families and communities left devastated as a result.  The worrying increase in knife crime since 2015 needs to be properly tackled as a matter of urgency.

“This Labour UK Government has set an ambitious mission for the country to halve knife crime over the next decade.  Stronger laws and proper enforcement is the start and we must continue to pursue every possible avenue that we can to save young lives.”

#DyfedPowysPolice #knifeCrime #Llanelli #NiaGriffithMP

Carmarthenshire railway station to become multi-modal interchange? http://dlvr.it/TJbzMQ #Llanelli #Network #NetworkRail #RailNews

Carmarthenshire railway station to become multi-modal interchange? http://dlvr.it/TJby5L #Llanelli #Network #NetworkRail #RailNews