New car park plan to end funeral traffic chaos at Llanelli Crematorium

A new car park could finally bring peace to the chaos outside Llanelli Crematorium — with plans unveiled to build 150 dedicated spaces just a short walk from the site.

The proposal comes from local developer Dyfrig Richards, who says the new car park will end years of roadside congestion, stress for grieving families, and safety concerns on the busy A4138.

The £500,000 scheme is part of a wider plan to create Parc Penprys, a NetZero business park on land behind the crematorium. But the car park is the first priority — and it’s being offered at no cost to the crematorium, council or taxpayers.

“Huge tailbacks and grass verge parking”

Local councillors and funeral directors have backed the plan, saying the current setup is not fit for purpose.

Cllr Stephen Williams said:

“On several occasions I’ve seen huge tailbacks of vehicles trying to access the grounds and cars parked on the approach road. This proposal could have huge benefits for the future of services at the crematorium.”

Funeral director Matthew L Jones added:

“We see how often cars are parked on the grass verges, causing problems and extra stress to families. An overspill car park would make the journey in and out much less stressful and dignified.”

Green business park to follow

Behind the car park, the developer plans to build Wales’ first business park powered by its own renewable energy source. The developer says Parc Penprys will offer low-carbon office space, clean energy for tenants, and long-term economic benefits for Llanelli.

Dyfrig Richards said:

“Our first priority is delivering a safe, respectful parking solution for the crematorium — something families, councillors and funeral directors have been calling for for years. Beyond that, Parc Penprys will support jobs, growth and regeneration for Llanelli.”

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Llanelli man jailed for handbag robbery

Shadow turned to attack

Jake Dighton, 31, of Bridge Street, Llanelli, admitted robbery after targeting the woman late on Friday 20 June as she walked along Glenalla Road with colleagues.

The victim recalled noticing a shadow appear over her shoulder before Dighton forcefully grabbed her handbag, causing her to fall to the ground. Despite suffering cuts and bruises, she tried to chase him but lost sight of him as he fled.

CCTV evidence

Police launched an investigation and quickly identified Dighton thanks to local CCTV footage. He was arrested on suspicion of robbery and later pleaded guilty at Swansea Crown Court on 25 July.

On Friday 5 December, he was sentenced to three years and three months in prison.

“Predatory behaviour” condemned

Detective Constable Rhydian Davies from Dyfed Powys Police said:

“We welcome the sentencing of Jake Dighton; this was a traumatic incident for the victim who has been reliving the incident since that night.

Dighton’s predatory behaviour is completely unacceptable, and no one should fear walking the streets of their hometown.

I commend the victim for her bravery and the strength with which she supported our investigation and the court proceedings that followed.”

DC Davies praised the support shown by the victim’s family, friends and the wider Llanelli community, and thanked colleagues across Dyfed‑Powys Police for their joint work in bringing Dighton to justice.

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Inquest opens into death of Llanelli police officer found in Bristol harbour

PC Rehaan Akhtar, 28, was last seen in the city centre in the early hours of 22 November while out with friends. He failed to return to the hostel where he was staying, sparking a major search.

Two days later, his body was recovered from Bristol’s harbourside. He was formally identified by his mother.

At Avon Coroner’s Court, the assistant coroner confirmed a provisional cause of death as drowning. The inquest has been adjourned until 24 February.

Tributes from South Wales Police

South Wales Police said PC Akhtar had first joined the force as a Police Community Support Officer in Cardiff in 2021 before training as a constable and taking up a post in Swansea in September 2023.

A statement from the force said: “It is with immense sadness that we confirm the passing of our colleague and friend PC 8650 Rehaan Akhtar. Rehaan served our communities with pride and professionalism and was greatly respected by colleagues and the public alike.”

Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan added:

“I was shocked and saddened to learn of Rehaan’s passing. At this difficult time, our hearts go out to his family and friends, and we will do all we can to support them.”

Football clubs mourn “talented” player

Away from policing, Rehaan was a well‑known footballer in the West Wales Premier League. His current club, Calsonic Kansei Swiss Valley AFC (CKSV), described him as “a committed first team player, a passionate footballer, and a valued presence both on and off the pitch.”

His former side, Trallwm Tigers FC, said he was “not only a talented footballer but a kind and humble person” who “gave everything on the pitch and brought warmth, positivity, and commitment off it.”

Llangennech AFC also paid tribute, calling him “a much‑loved young man taken far too soon.”

Community shock

The alarm was first raised when Rehaan failed to return to his accommodation in Bristol. Friends and colleagues described him as a “talented footballer” and a dedicated officer whose death has left a deep impact across Llanelli and Swansea.

The inquest will resume in February, when further details surrounding the circumstances of his death are expected to be heard.

#AvonCoronerSCourt #Bristol #CalsonicKanseiSwissValleyAFC #coroner #inquest #Llanelli #LlangennechAFC #SouthWalesPolice #TrallwmTigersFC

Llanelli retail staff report high levels of abuse as campaign calls for stronger protections

Retail staff in Llanelli say they continue to face unacceptable levels of verbal abuse, threats and physical assault while doing their jobs — prompting renewed calls for public respect and tougher enforcement.

The Freedom from Fear campaign, led by trade union Usdaw, was marked at Tesco Trostre with a visit from Dame Nia Griffith MP, alongside Lee Waters MS, Cllr Dot Jones and other local representatives. The event aimed to raise awareness of the abuse faced by shop workers and encourage the public to “keep your cool” in the run-up to Christmas.

Survey shows 71% of retail staff verbally abused

Interim results from Usdaw’s 2025 survey — based on responses from over 3,000 retail workers — show that:

• 71% have experienced verbal abuse in the past year
• 48% were threatened by a customer
• 9% were assaulted

Usdaw general secretary Joanne Thomas said the figures show a “slight downturn” compared to previous years, but warned that the scale of abuse remains “shocking”.

“Nearly three-quarters of those working in retail are regularly facing abuse from customers,” she said. “Far too many are experiencing threats and violence. Our members are saying loud and clear that enough is enough.”

Local voices call for change

Dame Nia Griffith MP said retail workers “deserve to be treated with respect” and backed Usdaw’s call for stronger legal protections.

“We’re introducing a new standalone offence of assaulting a retail worker,” she said. “That gives shop staff the protection they need and sends a clear message that abuse will not be tolerated.”

She also pointed to Labour’s Crime and Policing Bill, which removes the £200 threshold for prosecuting shoplifting and introduces new powers to ban repeat offenders.

Campaigners urge public to ‘respect shop workers’

Usdaw activists say incidents tend to rise in December as shops get busier and customer frustration grows. The union is encouraging staff to report abuse and reject the idea that it’s “part of the job”.

The Freedom from Fear campaign continues throughout the year, with workplace and community events planned across South Wales.

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“Constitutional outrage”: Lee Waters and Mike Hedges join Senedd Labour revolt over UK Government funding bypass

Two prominent South West Wales politicians — Llanelli MS Lee Waters and Swansea East MS Mike Hedges — have joined a growing rebellion inside Welsh Labour over UK Government funding decisions that bypass the Senedd.

In a strongly worded letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, signed by over a third of Labour Members of the Senedd, the group accuses Westminster of using Tory-era powers to override devolved responsibilities — calling it “deeply insensitive” and “a constitutional outrage.”

“Why is Whitehall deciding where to fix bus shelters in Wales?”

At the heart of the row is the Pride in Place programme, a UK Government initiative that funds local regeneration projects — including bins, toilets and bus shelters — directly through councils, without going through the Welsh Government.

The letter slams the use of the UK Internal Market Act 2020, originally passed by the Conservatives, to impose funding decisions in areas like regeneration that are fully devolved.

“Why is the UK Government directly funding Welsh Councils to fix bus shelters, reopen park toilets, and provide bins?” the letter asks.

“For our own Government to then come in and use the very same powers to act in devolved areas is at best deeply insensitive, at worst a constitutional outrage.”

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Follow the latest debates, decisions and political rows shaping Swansea, Llanelli and South West Wales.

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Local voices speak out

Lee Waters, a former Welsh Government cabinet member, and Mike Hedges, one of the longest-serving MSs in the Senedd, are among 11 signatories demanding that Wales be treated as an equal part of the UK.

The group warns that the current approach undermines the Welsh Government’s authority and risks wasting public money by duplicating existing programmes.

“If this was being done by a Tory Government, we would be calling for a judicial review,” they write.

Pressure mounts on Starmer to act

The letter calls on the Prime Minister to recommit to devolving powers over rail infrastructure, policing, justice and the Crown Estate — pledges made in opposition but not yet delivered in government.

That last demand is particularly sensitive. Welsh Labour has long backed the devolution of the Crown Estate, arguing that profits from Welsh land and seabed should benefit Wales directly. But earlier this year, UK Labour ministers rejected a Commons amendment that would have transferred control, sparking anger among Senedd members and comparisons with Scotland, where the Crown Estate is already devolved.

With Llanelli MS Lee Waters and Swansea East veteran Mike Hedges among the signatories, the row has brought the issue home to South West Wales. Both have warned that bypassing the Welsh Government on regeneration projects undermines devolution and risks wasting public money.

The pressure is now firmly on Downing Street to respond — and to show whether Labour in power will deliver the reforms it promised in opposition, or face growing unrest from its own ranks in Wales.

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“She’s back!” – Llanelli hotel says guest returned after alleged unpaid £700 bill

The Diplomat Hotel Restaurant & Spa in Felinfoel reported that the woman booked a five‑night stay worth over £800, but was quickly recognised by a team member who remembered her from the previous incident.

Hotel Director and General Manager Paul Jenkins said in a social media post that the woman left the hotel in June 2024 without settling her invoice, despite repeated attempts to contact her.

“We were left several hundred pounds out of pocket,” Jenkins wrote. “She disappeared and we suspect she may have done the same to other establishments.”

Caught on camera

According to the hotel, the woman initially managed to check in, but when Jenkins approached her and asked if she had stayed before, she denied ever visiting.

Staff attempted to take payment upfront, but Jenkins said her card was declined. He added that she claimed she would contact her company and return with another card, but instead left the premises.

The hotel has released CCTV footage of the encounter, showing the guest at the front desk during the attempted check‑in.

Warning to fellow hoteliers

Jenkins posted a warning online, saying:

“To all fellow hoteliers: please be vigilant and keep an eye out for this individual.”

The incident has been reported to Dyfed‑Powys Police, according to the hotel.

Hospitality scams hitting South Wales

Serial offenders jailed
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Italian restaurant hit
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Sentencing due this month
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Browse Swansea Bay News’ full archive of dine and dash stories.

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£500k gym deal pumps new life into Llanelli fitness scene

Led by local entrepreneur Ioan Jones, the takeover brings together gyms in Llanelli, Trimsaran and Burry Port, with all sites staying open and memberships, staff and services continuing as normal.

The new Hyve Gym brand promises slick strength equipment, functional fitness zones and a packed timetable of classes — from indoor cycling and group training to conditioning and circuits.

Jones says he’s ready to grow the brand and keep the community at the heart of it: “Buying three gyms at once was a major step. I wanted a legal team who could guide me through every stage — and Peter Lynn and Partners did just that.”

No disruption, no downtime

The deal was wrapped up in just seven weeks, with Peter Lynn and Partners Solicitors handling the legal side — including lease transfers, TUPE staff arrangements and protection of existing memberships.

Greg George, James Lewis Hyndman and Rob Cherry led the negotiations, with funding from the Development Bank of Wales.

George said the team worked fast to keep everything running smoothly: “Each gym had its own lease, so we had to complete three assignments at the same time as the funding drawdown. We made sure the transition was seamless.”

Hyve Gym locations

Llanelli
Sandy Bridge Trade Park, Llanelli SA15 4AX

Burry Port (Express)
WDA Industrial Estate, Burry Port SA16 0NN

Trimsaran
Trimsaran Leisure Centre, Trimsaran SA17 4AA

What’s next for Hyve Gym?

Jones says the focus now is on expanding the timetable, upgrading equipment and building a fitness community that works for everyone — from first‑timers to seasoned lifters.

All three gyms are open with extended hours, accessible layouts and a growing list of classes.

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Llanelli’s Jonny Clayton handed slim chance in World Darts Championship supercomputer

A new “supercomputer” prediction has given Llanelli darts star Jonny Clayton just a 0.5% chance of winning his first World Championship title at Alexandra Palace this winter.

Clayton, nicknamed The Ferret, is rated as having a 35.7% chance of reaching the quarter‑finals and a 21.6% chance of making the semi‑finals. His chances of reaching the final stand at 1.5%.

The figures come from a statistical model run by BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest darts odds. The system simulated the tournament 10,000 times using player ratings and recent form.

Littler the overwhelming favourite

Teenage sensation Luke Littler is tipped as the runaway favourite, with a 70.3% chance of retaining his world title. His nearest rival, Welshman Gerwyn Price, is given just a 9.5% chance of winning.

The model predicts a repeat of last year’s final between Littler and Luke Humphries as the most likely outcome, with Humphries rated at 24% to reach the final.

Three‑time world champion Michael van Gerwen, runner‑up in 2025, is also given only a 0.5% chance of lifting the trophy again.

Local hopes rest on Clayton

Despite the long odds, Clayton remains a fan favourite in Llanelli and across Wales. His consistent performances on the PDC circuit have kept him in contention, and supporters will be hoping he can defy the predictions and make a deep run at Ally Pally.

The World Championship begins later this month, with the final set for New Year’s Day.

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New defibrillator installed at Llanelli play area as council tackles ‘defib desert’

The device, now active at Nightingale Court play area, has been registered on The Circuit, a national database that helps ambulance crews locate the nearest defibrillator in the event of a cardiac emergency.

Town councillor Shaun Greaney, who represents Lliedi ward, said the area had previously been a “defibrillator desert” — with no publicly accessible devices nearby.

“Every minute without treatment reduces the chance of survival by around 10 per cent,” he said. “We’ve seen tragic cases where cardiac arrests or critical bleeds could potentially have been survivable if help had been available immediately.”

The council says the new device is part of a broader push to improve emergency readiness across Llanelli.

“This Labour-led town council is spearheading a lifesaving safety drive,” Cllr Greaney added. “Early defibrillation, combined with CPR, can increase survival rates to 50–70 per cent if delivered within five minutes.”

National figures show survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests remain below 10 per cent — but experts say bystander CPR and rapid access to an AED (automated external defibrillator) can dramatically improve outcomes.

Council leader Cllr David Darkin said the council will begin offering free public training in the coming months, covering both defibrillator use and Critical Bleed Control Kits — specialist equipment designed to stop catastrophic bleeding.

“These kits are army-grade and invaluable in emergencies,” he said. “We’ll be rolling out training in community centres across Llanelli next year.”

Cllr Darkin praised Cllr Greaney for introducing the bleed control initiative to the council, and said it complements the town’s wider Sports, Youth and Activities programme, aimed at improving health and wellbeing outcomes for residents of all ages.

Cllr Gareth Lloyd, who represents Bigyn ward, said the new defibrillator was already being welcomed by local families.

“It’s a vital addition to the play area,” he said. “We’re proud to be making lifesaving equipment more accessible to the community.”

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Bus strikes across South West Wales come to an end after deal agreed

The company announced this week that a revised pay offer has been accepted by staff, lifting the threat of further walkouts and restoring certainty for passengers.

Agreement brings relief after months of disruption

Industrial action by Unite members had caused widespread disruption to services in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Llanelli and beyond, with strikes stretching into the autumn and winter.

Several rounds of negotiations saw offers rejected, strikes postponed, and services repeatedly thrown into doubt. At one stage, Unite confirmed action would continue into January, escalating concerns for commuters and local councils.

The breakthrough came after First Cymru tabled an improved offer, which has now been accepted.

First Cymru statement

Doug Claringbold, Managing Director of First Bus Cymru, said:

“We are pleased that the revised offer has been accepted by colleagues and that the threat of further strike action has been lifted. This agreement provides certainty for our teams and our customers, and enables us to move forward together.

“Our priority now is to restore confidence and deliver the reliable, consistent services that our communities depend on every day. We want to thank our customers for their patience during this period of uncertainty, and we look forward to welcoming back anyone who may have been affected by the recent disruption.”

Looking ahead

The end of the strikes will be welcomed by thousands of passengers who rely on First Cymru buses daily for work, school and essential travel. Local leaders, including Neath Port Talbot Council, had previously voiced concern about the impact of prolonged disruption on communities and businesses.

With the agreement now in place, attention turns to rebuilding trust and ensuring services run smoothly through the busy winter period.

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Llanelli mining families win pension justice after decades of campaigning

Around 150 former mineworkers and their families in Llanelli are set to receive increased pension payments following changes to the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme (BCSSS) announced in the Budget.

The adjustment will see an average uplift of £100 a week for eligible members, with payments backdated and expected to begin before the end of the year.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said the change would deliver a 41% uplift to annual pensions for 40,000 former mineworkers across the UK, with payments backdated and expected to begin before the end of the year.

“A victory for relentless campaigning”

Dame Nia Griffith, MP for Llanelli, welcomed the announcement, saying:

“For far too long former miners in Llanelli have had to wait for the pension settlement they deserve. I am pleased to see a Labour Government taking decisive action to finally end this injustice and deliver what is rightfully owed back to mining families.”

Griffith has campaigned alongside ex-pit workers and other MPs representing coalfield communities to secure the change, which builds on previous action taken on the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme.

Government and union response

Ed Miliband said the transfer of the investment reserve was a response to long-standing calls from campaigners:

“We owe the mining communities who powered this country a debt of gratitude. I pay tribute to those who have fought for a fair deal — without them this would not have happened.”

Chris Kitchen, General Secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers, said:

“The additional pensions this will provide will benefit not just the pensioners but our former mining communities.”

Welsh Liberal Democrats welcome move

David Chadwick, Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster Spokesperson, also welcomed the announcement, saying:

“This is welcome news for the roughly 4,000 former miners who were denied full access to their pension pots in last year’s budget. I am proud to have been the only Welsh MP to consistently press the UK Government to right this historic injustice.”

He added that many former miners now suffer ill health as a result of their work, and said it was only right they receive the full pension support they’ve long been owed.

What happens next

The trustees of the BCSSS are expected to begin uplifted payments before the end of the year, with adjustments backdated to align with previous changes made to the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme.

The announcement follows years of campaigning by former mineworkers and their representatives, and marks a significant change in how surplus investment reserves are handled within the scheme.

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Fifth daily train to run on Heart of Wales line from December

From 14 December, passengers travelling between Swansea and Shrewsbury via the Heart of Wales line will have access to a fifth daily train.

Transport for Wales is adding a new midday service in both directions, increasing the number of trains from four to five per day. The Heart of Wales line runs through Llanelli, Llandeilo, Llandrindod Wells and Knighton, connecting rural towns with Swansea and Shrewsbury.

The change is part of the UK-wide December rail timetable update. Journey planners have already been updated, and passengers can now check times for travel after 14 December.

Funding and political agreement

The extra service is being funded through the Welsh Government’s 2025–26 Budget deal with Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds.

In a statement, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said:

“The Heart of Wales line provides a spectacular and scenic journey for tourists but is also a vital link for rural communities in Mid Wales, so this will be welcome news for residents and visitors alike.”

“Railway connections are vital in driving prosperity. These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.”

“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”

Transport for Wales said the new service would give passengers more flexibility for day trips and essential journeys, and help support the local tourism economy.

What it means for passengers

The new train will run midday every day, giving people more choice when planning journeys.

Passengers are being advised to check journey planners for travel after 14 December to see the updated timetable.

#additionalTrains #heartOfWales #janeDoddsMs #kenSkatesMs #llandeilo #llanelli #swansea #trains #transportForWales #welshGovernment

New community hub opens in Llwynhendy as old library gets fresh lease of life

The renovated facility, now named Canolfan Llwynhendy, is open to the public following completion of works funded by the Welsh Government, Carmarthenshire County Council, Llanelli Rural Council, and Our Llwynhendy. Furnishing costs were supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The centre includes meeting rooms, a café, an automated library service, housing and employment advice, training opportunities, and a programme of events delivered through Pro-Vision Llwynhendy and Our Llwynhendy. Ownership of the building has officially transferred from Carmarthenshire County Council to Llanelli Rural Council.

The venue will operate Monday to Friday, with facilities available for hire seven days a week. An official opening ceremony is being planned, subject to ministerial availability, and a series of community events will be held to mark the launch.

“A fantastic venue for the community”

Council Leader and Chairman, Cllr Sue Lewis, said:

“Canolfan Llwynhendy is a fantastic venue for the community. It’s a fresh, light and welcoming space that has completely transformed the old library building. We’re proud to offer a place where people can access vital services locally and enjoy a wide range of activities.”

She added that the centre’s integration with outdoor improvements at Parc Y Gwili — including new play areas and landscaping — creates a seamless environment that encourages wellbeing and community use.

Cllr Deryk Cundy, Chairman of the Recreation and Welfare Committee, said:

“This is a real asset for Llwynhendy. The automated library service means longer opening hours and greater accessibility — no more part-time library services. But it’s not just about books; Canolfan Llwynhendy brings together a range of vital services under one roof.”

“The addition of a café creates a welcoming social space for residents to meet, relax, and engage with others, helping to build a stronger sense of community. Combined with the new play provisions and landscaping at Parc Y Gwili, the centre offers a seamless indoor-outdoor experience that makes the area a true destination for all ages.”

#canolfanLlwynhendy #carmarthenshireCountyCouncil #cllrDerykCundy #cllrSueLewis #llanelli #llanelliRuralCouncil #llwynhendy #llwynhendyLibrary #ourLlwynhendy #proVisionLlwynhendy #sharedProsperityFund #welshGovernment

Ammanford deputy mayor tops Labour’s Senedd list for Carmarthenshire

Higgins brings legal and union background to the top of the list

Labour members in the new “super constituency” of Sir Gaerfyrddin, covering the Westminster seats of Caerfyrddin and Llanelli, have backed Higgins to head the party’s closed list under the expanded Senedd arrangements.

A fluent Welsh speaker, Higgins told members he wanted to “represent Sir Gaerfyrddin to make a difference on the ground, ensuring national policies deliver for our communities.” He pointed to his experience as a Citizens Advice lawyer during austerity and later as a manager for a health trade union representing members across Wales during the pandemic.

Currently deputy mayor of Ammanford, Higgins also sits on Ammanford Town Council and Lliedi Community Council. He has lived in Tycroes all his life, trained as a barrister, and worked for Citizens Advice Cymru before joining an NHS trade union as a policy officer. Away from politics he plays rugby for Tycroes RFC 2nds and is active in local groups including Tycroes Local Aid.

Teacher from Burry Port takes second place

Second on Labour’s list is Dawn Evans, a teacher from Burry Port. In her pitch she described herself as “a proud Welsh speaking woman, rooted in Carmarthenshire,” and spoke of her personal experience when her son Iwan was left with lifelong disabilities following ambulance delays.

“That experience shaped me,” she said. “I promised myself that if I ever had a chance to improve health and care services for others, I would.”

County councillor and consultant joins the slate

Third on the list is Martyn Palfreman, Labour County Councillor for the Hengoed ward. He is also a consultant specialising in improvement across social care, health and public services, with a career background in practice development and service transformation.

Llanelli architect and town council leader makes his bid

Fourth is David Darkin, an architect and leader of Llanelli Town Council, who launched his bid for the Senedd list in July. He has combined his professional expertise with civic leadership, and has been active in local politics and community design.

Advisor to Lee Waters MS takes fifth spot

Fifth is Lewis Eldred Davies, Labour County Councillor for Kidwelly & St Ishmael. He works as an advisor to Lee Waters MS, the controversial former transport minister who is not standing again at the next election.

Llanelli councillor and mental health campaigner completes the list

Sixth on the list is Andre McPherson, Labour County Councillor for Tyisha ward and a member of Llanelli Town Council. A qualified personal trainer, he also chairs the Board of Trustees for MIND’s Llanelli branch, supporting mental health services in the community.

Electoral outlook

While Higgins heads the slate, Labour’s prospects in Carmarthenshire are far from certain. Our previous poll reporting suggested the party is in line for just one seat in this constituency, with Plaid Cymru and Reform UK both gaining ground as Labour’s support edges back.

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#ammanford #ammanfordTownCouncil #andreMcpherson #caerfyrddin #calumHiggins #carmarthenshire #cllrMartynPalfreman #davidDarkin #dawnEvans #kidwelly #lewisEldredDavies #llanelli #llanelliTownCouncil #senedd #seneddElection #seneddElections2026 #welshLabour

Council crushes Llanelli man’s truck after dumping household debris in two Briton Ferry lanes

Richard Darren Barwell, 55, of Ropewalk Road, pleaded guilty at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on 30 October 2025 to two offences under Section 33(5) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

The court heard that on 10 August 2024, large quantities of household debris — including timber, bathroom fittings, carpets, and building rubble — were found dumped in a lane between Gower Street and Tucker Street, and again later that day at Wharf Road.

Among the items were internal doors, a cream bath and sink with a seashell-like pattern, bags of rubble, loft insulation, a broken toilet, and a Carmarthenshire Council recycling bag.

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Waste Enforcement Officers traced the fly-tipping to a black Ford tipper van seen at both locations. Mr Barwell was found to be insured to drive the vehicle, making him liable under the law even if he did not personally deposit the waste.

The van was seized and later crushed after being deemed unfit for the road.

Mr Barwell was ordered to pay £1,516 in costs, a £114 victim surcharge, and complete 100 hours of unpaid work.

“A serious environmental crime”

Councillor Scott Jones, Cabinet Member for Streetscene, praised the council’s enforcement team:

“This kind of fly-tipping is a serious environmental crime and can be very distressing for the communities where waste is unlawfully deposited. I want to praise our Waste Enforcement Officers who worked hard to bring about this prosecution. It sends out the message that those who fly-tip, and in so doing damage our communities, will be brought before the courts.”

#britonFerry #cllrScottJones #flyTipping2 #flytipping #flytippingProsecution #llanelli #neathPortTalbotCouncil #wasteEnforcement

Llanelli Town Mayor steps down due to ill‑health

In a statement issued following Tuesday evening’s meeting of the Ex‑Town Mayor’s Committee, members said: “Cllr Bragoli has been incredibly busy with Mayoral engagements throughout his time in office. The Ex‑Town Mayor’s Committee expressed its best wishes to Cllr Bragoli for a swift recovery to full health and expressed its thanks to him for his service throughout his time as Town Mayor, which has included raising a large sum of money for his chosen charities, LAMAS and the Llanelli Warriors Rugby Club.”

The committee added that arrangements will be made to enable Cllr Bragoli to present the donations to the charities in due course.

It was also agreed that the immediate past Town Mayor, Councillor John Prosser, will represent the Town Council at mayoral engagements for the forthcoming period.

The statement continued: “Future arrangements will be made to appoint an interim Town Mayor for the remainder of the current Civic Year at the December Town Council meeting. The Ex‑Town Mayor’s Committee also put forward a recommendation to be placed before the next Town Council meeting that Cllr Prosser be nominated for appointment as Town Mayor for the remainder of the current Civic Year.”

#cllrAndrewBragoli #cllrJohnProsser #llanelli #llanelliTownCouncil #mayorOfLlanelli

Former Carmarthenshire Labour leader defects to Green Party

Cllr Robert James, who represents the Lliedi ward in Llanelli, was announced as the party’s newest councillor at the Wales Green Party conference in Cardiff.

Cllr James had led the opposition group at Carmarthenshire Council for nearly six years before being suspended by Labour in 2024. He had been sitting as an independent councillor since then. At the time of his suspension he said he would contest the decision, but Welsh Labour did not comment.

Announcing his move to the Greens, Cllr James said:

“During a time when our communities are the most divided in decades and the struggles our residents face continue to grow, I have joined a party that puts people and this planet first – by tackling crippling inequality, protecting public services and safeguarding the future of our environment.”

He added:

“As a Green councillor I will continue to fight for the interests of those living in Lliedi and Carmarthenshire more widely, to get the changes we desperately need.”

Cllr James has previously led campaigns to divest pension funds from fossil fuels, for a locally owned bus company for school pupils, and against cuts to local public services.

Green Party deputy leader Zack Polanski welcomed the defection, saying:

“I know this will be the first of many councillors who we will be welcoming to the Wales Green Party.I’m delighted to be welcoming Robert in person at this historic Wales conference where members are planning how to break through into the Senedd in the elections in 2026.

This defection of a county councillor shows that the momentum is building and more breakthroughs will follow. Rob is a pioneer – he was the youngest Labour group leader in Wales, and now the first councillor in Wales to join the Green Party from Labour. He won’t be the last – I know there are many more weighing up their decision.”

Wales Green Party leader Anthony Slaughter said the move showed “the political tectonic plates are shifting in Wales,” noting that the party’s membership had nearly tripled in two months to close in on 6,000.

The announcement came as the party met in Cardiff to plan its strategy for the 2026 Senedd elections.

The Greens also highlighted that former Caerphilly Council leader Sean Morgan has joined the party, having quit Labour in September after four decades of membership.

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#CllrRobJames #Defection #GreenParty #GreenPartyConference #Llanelli #Lleidi #politics #WelshLabour

Llanelli to host pioneering NHS drone hub as Wales trials autonomous medical deliveries

Dafen site chosen for key vertiport

The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service/Wales Air Ambulance base in Dafen, Llanelli has been confirmed as one of three sites to host prototype vertical take‑off and landing facilities — known as vertiports — as part of the Dragon’s Heart project.

The Llanelli hub will be used to demonstrate how drones can carry blood products and urgent medical samples directly between NHS sites, helping frontline teams respond more quickly to emergencies.

Local NHS staff will be able to engage with the new infrastructure during demonstration flights, exploring how the technology could enhance patient care in Carmarthenshire and beyond.

Transforming rural healthcare

While the drone network is designed to connect NHS facilities across Wales, its impact will be especially significant in rural and hard‑to‑reach communities. By bypassing road congestion and geographic barriers, drones offer a faster, more reliable way to deliver life‑saving supplies where they’re needed most.

“Harnessing drone technology will help us better serve patients and NHS teams, ensuring critical resources arrive where they’re needed most,” said Alan Prosser, Director of the Welsh Blood Service.

A Wales‑wide network with Llanelli at its heart

Alongside Llanelli, vertiports will also be installed at the Welsh Blood Service headquarters in Talbot Green and the Ambulance and Fire Rescue Services resource centre in Wrexham. Together, these sites will form the backbone of a future drone delivery network.

The technology includes autonomous flight guidance, ground‑based radar, and real‑time threat avoidance systems, ensuring safe and efficient operation even in complex environments.

Looking ahead to 2027

The current phase focuses on regional demonstration and strategic growth, with the goal of launching a fully operational prototype service from Talbot Green by 2027.

The Welsh Blood Service says it remains committed to exploring cutting‑edge solutions that improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes across Wales — with Llanelli playing a key role in shaping the future of NHS transport.

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#Dafen #DragonSHeartProject #DroneDelivery #droneMedicalDelivery #drones #EMRTS #Llanelli #medicalSamples #NHSDroneHub #NHSWales #Technology #WalesAirAmbulance #WelshBloodService

Police confirm online threat behind Dafen school closure

Critical incident declared after anonymous report

Police have confirmed that an anonymous online threat suggesting individuals would attend Dafen CP School with knives led to today’s closure of the Llanelli primary.

The report was first received by the Metropolitan Police before being passed to Dyfed‑Powys Police at 2.30am on Monday, 3 November. A critical incident was declared and Carmarthenshire Council was consulted on the decision to close the school.

Heavy police presence throughout the day

At least 13 police units were deployed to the school and surrounding area, including firearms officers, a dog unit, neighbourhood policing teams and response officers. Investigators worked throughout the day to assess the credibility of the threat.

Specialist enquiries have since confirmed the report came from a single anonymous source that cannot be identified, with no further information to substantiate it. Police say the risk is now deemed to have passed and there is no ongoing investigation.

Community reassurance

Gold commander Superintendent Chris Neve said officers understood the concern caused by the incident.

“We recognise the concern among families of children who attend Dafen CP School, and the wider community today, and apologise we have not been in a position to provide this detail any sooner,” he said.

“The safety of the school and integrity of the inquiry have been paramount. You will continue to see an increased police presence at Dafen CP School and the surrounding area throughout this evening, with teams also attending schools in the wider Llanelli area to provide reassurance tomorrow.”

No wider risk identified

Police stressed there is no reason to believe there is any ongoing risk to Dafen CP School, other schools, or the wider Llanelli community. Parents and guardians will continue to receive updates via the school’s communication app, and residents are encouraged to follow Dyfed‑Powys Police and Carmarthenshire Council for official information.

#CarmarthenshireCouncil #CarmarthenshireCountyCouncil #Dafen #DafenPrimarySchool #DyfedPowysPolice #knifeCrime #Llanelli #onlineThreat

Armed police outside Llanelli school after online threats force closure

Early morning alert

Dafen CP School in Llanelli was closed today (Monday, November 3) after threatening messages were made online. Dyfed‑Powys Police said they were alerted in the early hours.

In a statement posted on social media at 7am, the force said:

“We received information at around 2.30am that required safeguarding action to be taken. Working with Carmarthenshire County Council, a decision has been made to close the school today. There is currently a police presence at the school and surrounding areas, and officers will remain in the area while enquiries are carried out.”

By dawn, armed officers were seen outside the school, sparking alarm among parents and residents.

Parents seek answers

The sight of armed police led to a flurry of posts on social media from worried parents, many demanding to know the nature of the threats. Some said they were frustrated by the lack of detail, with no explanation given about when or how the police became aware of the messages.

At 9.42am, Dyfed‑Powys Police issued a further update on Facebook, acknowledging the concern.

“We understand there will be concern among parents and school staff following the message that was issued earlier this morning. We can assure that the necessary and appropriate safeguarding measures have been taken based on the information received by Dyfed‑Powys Police. We continue to work with Carmarthenshire County Council. No other schools have required closure in the local area.”

Council reassures families

Carmarthenshire Council’s Director of Education, Owain Lloyd, also addressed the situation in a letter circulated to other schools, including Bryngwyn. He confirmed the closure was made on police advice, writing:

“Due to information received by Dyfed‑Powys Police, Dafen CP School in Llanelli is closed today. We understand there will be concern among parents and school staff following this. We can assure that the necessary and appropriate safeguarding measures have been taken.”

Investigation continues

By 2pm, police said enquiries into the threatening message were still ongoing. In a third social media post, the force thanked parents and guardians for their support “during this understandably concerning time.”

They added:

“The safety and welfare of the school, pupils, and the wider community are at the heart of this inquiry. At this stage of the investigation, we are unable to comment any further on the nature of the threat and we encourage people not to speculate on the circumstances of the ongoing investigation.”

Officers confirmed they would maintain a visible presence at Dafen CP School and in the wider Llanelli area to provide reassurance. Parents of pupils at the school are being kept updated through the school’s communication app.

Unanswered questions

Despite the heavy police presence and repeated reassurances, no further information has been provided about the nature of the threats, when they were made, or how police became aware of them. For now, families in Llanelli are left waiting for clarity as the investigation continues.

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