Drunk Neath man strangled ex-partner in front of her children before crashing car

37-year-old Grant John, from Neath town centre, grabbed his ex-partner around the throat while in an intoxicated state, causing her to lose consciousness for a brief period before hitting the victim in the face when he was asked to leave.

He then smashed the glass on the victim’s front door. These incidents took place whilst the victim’s children were at the home and some of the children witnessed them. John also pleaded guilty to assaulting one of the children.

A few hours later, John, still intoxicated, crashed his vehicle into a parked car on the victim’s street.

John pleaded guilty to assault, intentional strangulation, driving while under the influence of alcohol, driving without third-party insurance, driving a motor vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and criminal damage.

He has been sentenced to 24 months in prison.

Detective Inspector Danielle Thorne from South Wales Police said: “Grant John is clearly a violent man who took out his anger on his partner and her children while he was under the influence of alcohol.

“This would have been a scary incident for both the victim and her children, for a man as dangerous as Grant John to be within their own home.

“We hope that following his prison sentence, the victim and her family no longer have any contact with him.”

#assault #domesticViolence #Neath #SouthWalesPolice

Mayhill man jailed after 110mph police pursuit leaves passing car on roof

31-year-old Kyron Farrell had planned to attend a large car meet of around 100 people at Milland Road, Neath in March this year. Officers witnessed him reversing up the slip road from the A474 before heading off at speed towards Stockham’s Corner, where rather than negotiating the roundabout, he performed a u-turn to head back up the A-road.

He then joined the A465, where he reached speeds of up to 110mph in a bid to escape police. After running a red light and circling the roundabout at Llandarcy, he then attempted to travel westbound along the eastbound carriageway.

As police made attempts to stop Farrell’s vehicle, it collided with a passing Nissan Micra, flipping the Micra and causing it to roll until it came to a stop on its roof in the carriageway.

Farrell and three friends then exited the vehicle and tried to flee. Farrell was found a short time later by a police dog, hiding in nearby undergrowth.

Farrell pleaded guilty to driving a motor vehicle dangerously and driving without insurance.

He has been sentenced to 16 months in prison. He has been disqualified from holding a driving licence for three years and eight months.

Sergeant Daniel Kathrens from South Wales Police said: “Kyron Farrell’s manner of driving was not only stupid; it was also incredibly dangerous, as he repeatedly ran red lights and hit outrageous speeds in a bid to escape police.

“It is a miracle that the two innocent people in the vehicle which ended up on its roof escaped without further injuries, and Kyron Farrell can count his blessings that that is the case.

“His driving also put the safety of his two passengers at risk, as well as that of other road users. Prison is the only reasonable outcome for him.”

#dangerousDriving #Llandarcy #M4 #Mayhill #Neath #RoadTrafficAccident #SouthWalesPolice

Neath man charged over collapse of Ammanford school stabbing trial

45-year-old Christopher Elias appeared before Swansea Magistrates’ Court earlier today (Wednesday 14 May) charged with the offence of refusing to answer a question relating to the qualification to serve on a jury.

The trial over the stabbing and attempted murder of two teachers and a pupil at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman by a 14-year-old collapsed in October last year, with the judge saying there had been a “great irregularity in the jury”.

A subsequent retrial saw the teenage girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, sentenced to 15-years for the attack on teachers Fiona Elias, Liz Hopkin and a pupil during break time at the school in April 2024.

Elias was released on unconditional bail ahead of his next hearing on 2 June at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court.

#Ammanford #juror #Neath #trial #Waunceirch #YsgolDyffrynAman

Former professional singer, youth worker and reverend is new Mayor of Neath Port Talbot

Melin born Cllr Carpenter, who represents the Neath East ward on Neath Port Talbot Council, is the son of a Metal Box worker father and a mother who helped provide school meals in Neath for a large part of her life.

For many years Cllr Carpenter administered youth arts and music for the former West Glamorgan County Council and was the administrator for the annual Margam Festival.

A committed Christian, he later became a professional singer, recording four albums and touring the UK, Southern Ireland, the Channel Islands, South Africa and Romania.

After becoming pastor of his home church, Bethel Elim, in Melin, he was ordained as a reverend, serving in Neath for 12 years then in Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil for ten years.

As Regional Youth Director for his denomination for eight years, he encouraged, trained and developed youth work in 42 churches in Wales and the Southwest Midlands. In 2009 he was given the Citizen of The Year Award by Neath Town Council for work with young people and the elderly.

He was sworn in by Neath Port Talbot Council Chief Executive Frances O’Brien at a ceremony as part of the council’s Annual General Meeting at Margam Orangery on May 9th, 2025, where he paid tribute to the excellent work during the past year of outgoing Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Matthew Crowley and his wife Michelle Crowley.

His Mayoress this year will be his wife, Carol. They have two children, Claire and Christian (Christian played guitar at the ceremony), and six grandchildren Grace, Layla, Jacob, Reuben, Faith and Isabella.

Cllr Carpenter will raise funds during his mayoral year for these two causes:

Type-1-Derful – A local charity under the umbrella of Diabetes UK, it supports children and their families who have been diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at a young age, organising summer camps and Christmas parties and helping finance some of the treatment needed by children with Type 1 diabetes.

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru – Another Welsh charity it seeks to support those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and their families.

Cllr Carpenter said: “It’s a great honour and privilege for us to be inaugurated as Mayor and Mayoress of Neath Port Talbot Council.

“This authority recognises the importance of economic prosperity and works towards making Neath Port Talbot a thriving, forward looking, confident place where people want to live, work and visit – a place where jobs and businesses can flourish.

“I could never let this moment pass without thanking my wonderful wife and your new Mayoress Carol. We’ve been married for 50 years this year and can’t think of a better way to celebrate our Golden Wedding Anniversary by becoming your new Mayor and Mayoress.”

Also sworn in at the ceremony were this year’s Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayoress Cllr Alan Lockyer and his wife Jan Lockyer.

#CllrWayneCarpenter #MayorOfNeathPortTalbot #Melin #Neath #NeathPortTalbot #NeathPortTalbotCouncil

Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2025 Chair and Crown Unveiled

Angharad Pearce Jones from the Brynaman area has designed and created the Chair, sponsored by Soar-Maesyrhaf Chapel. Nicola Palterman from Neath has created the Crown, sponsored by primary schools in the West Glamorgan Region.

Some of the final pieces of steel from Tata Steel’s works were used in the designs of the two prizes, paying tribute to the local industrial heritage of this year’s Eisteddfod yr Urdd, which will be held at Margam Park, Port Talbot.

Creating an Eisteddfod chair “a dream come true”

“Creating this year’s chair has been a wonderful privilege and a dream come true. It’s something that’s been on my wish list for many years,” says Angharad Pearce Jones, the award-winning artist who is originally from Y Bala, but who has lived in the Brynaman area for twenty years.

The chair is inspired by the local steel works and industry, and a combination of the Welsh steel and flat steel produced in Port Talbot was used to create it. Angharad was given a guided tour of the Tata Steel site and saw parts that were not visible from the main road, such as countless pipes, and these parts can be seen on the finished chair.

“I’m lucky that I had the last piece of Welsh iron ore from Tata’s works for the chair, and I was determined to create a chair that felt positive – a celebration rather than a sad symbol of the past. My intention was to create a contemporary and appealing chair for the young person who will hopefully win it. I want them to be able to enjoy the chair forever.”

Angharad is famous for her work with steel. She won the gold medal for fine art at the 2024 National Eisteddfod at Rhondda Cynon Taf, and she’s currently designing a permanent sculpture for the site of the Ruthin Craft Centre.

The chair is sponsored by the Soar-Maesyrhaf Chapel, Neath. Angharad visited this Welsh chapel while researching the history and the building for further inspiration: “Remarkably, the woodwork and the red and cream colours of the steelworks’ pipes were similar to the chapel’s colours. There was a strong sense of correlation between the two sites. Many of the Welsh-speaking people who used to attend the chapel were also employed in the steelworks, and the chapel will be reflected in the design as well.”

It’s clear that Angharad was thrilled at the opportunity, as the Urdd means so much to her. “I had a lot of fun and success competing on the Urdd stage with school choirs in Y Bala. Our school won the choir competition five years in a row. We were famous and we released a CD! I’ve competed in gymnastics, on the piano and as a soloist, and my daughter has just competed in the Urdd’s rugby 7s competition. We owe a great debt to the Urdd.”

The crown to feature diamonds “for the first time ever”

This year’s crown is sponsored by the primary schools of the West Glamorgan Region. They were looking for someone local to create the crown and Nicola Palterman jumped at the opportunity when asked.

“I’ve had several interesting design commissions over the years, from wedding rings to prizes such as the Prince William Cup, but this is the first crown,” explains the luxury jewellery designer. “My business partner, Laura Thomas, has designed a crown for the National Eisteddfod in the past, and now I’ve had the opportunity to design a crown for Eisteddfod yr Urdd!”

Born and bred in Neath, Nicola went on to study at the Birmingham School of Jewellery before being offered a job as a luxury jewellery designer at Aur Cymru, Dolgellau. She set up her own jewellery shop in Dolgellau 30 years ago, before deciding to establish a business back in her hometown. After sharing a studio and workshop with local jeweller Laura Thomas, the pair decided to merge their businesses and create ‘Jewel and Grace’ eighteen months ago.

In discussions with the sponsors and the local committee, everyone agreed that the culture and history of the area needed to be reflected in the design: “I wanted the design to be based on the steel and sea theme. The waves of the coastal landscape in the Aberavon area can be seen, while the birds are a strong symbol in this year’s Welcome Song and offer much hope for the future. But the design also recognises the importance of the steel industry, which has been the lifeblood of people over the years.

“The material is a striking combination of the ‘young’, shiny silver; tin coated with a layer of local steel from Tata’s works; and blue velvet that represents the maritime element on the cap. I’ve also added small blue diamonds to introduce an element of luxury that has been a hallmark of my work over the years. I think it’s the first time ever that the Eisteddfod yr Urdd crown contains diamonds!”

The Chairing ceremony will be held on the Thursday of the Eisteddfod, sponsored by the Ivor and Aeres Evans Trust. The Crowning ceremony will take place on the Friday of the festival, sponsored by Cardiff University.

#Brynamman #Chair #crown #JerseyMarine #Neath #NeathPortTalbot #sculpture #Urdd

Plaque unveiled for Neath leisure centre, library and retail complex

The Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Steve Hunt, has unveiled a plaque to mark the development of the transformational Neath Leisure Centre, Library and Retail Complex.

It offers a 25m pool, learner pool, a 100-station gym, steam room, health suite, modern library and other facilities right in the heart of Neath.

And the retail section has also attracted the popular Cadno Lounge bar/restaurant and home, leisure and garden superstore The Range with a deli and coffee shop, a jewellery shop/boutique and a children’s soft play attraction signed up and coming soon says the council.

The council says that Neath town centre footfall has increased since the complex was built and as for the new leisure centre, the Celtic Leisure team confirm that, compared to the old Dyfed Road building, memberships have increased 100% and overall participation rates have doubled.

Cllr Hunt said at the unveiling on Friday, May 2, 2025 : “Although our fantastic new Leisure Centre and Library have been in use for a while, an ‘official opening’ was never held. Given the positive difference it has made to Neath’s town centre and the wider county borough, I was keen to mark the opening and see a plaque installed to recognise the key partners involved.

“The ‘vision’ was clear from the very start – this was based around providing a multi-use complex in the heart of Neath which would breathe new life into the town centre, bring people in (both residents and visitors), complement and stimulate new and existing businesses, attract further investment and to promote wellbeing and create new places for people to meet and socialise.”

Among the visitors to the ceremony were representatives of main contractors for the project, Kier Construction, consultants Faithful and Gould, Neath Port Talbot Council members and officers including Chief Executive Frances O’Brien, Neath MS and Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Jeremy Miles, Neath Town Council Mayor Cllr Paul James and representatives of businesses established in the complex’s retail section.

The project has been part funded by the Welsh Government through its Transforming Towns initiative which aims to help town centres across Wales survive the huge rise in online shopping and a change in the way we use our town centres.

Welsh Government Minister for Climate Change, Julie James MS, said: “We want town and city centres across Wales to be the beating heart of Welsh communities, where people can access services, shops, communal and cultural spaces.

“Through our Transforming Towns programme, we are providing millions of pounds to further support the economic and social recovery of our town and city centres.

“Our Town Centre First policy, embedded in Wales’ national development plan Future Wales, means that town and city centre sites should be the first consideration for all decisions on the location of workplaces and services.”

#CelticLeisure #Neath #NeathLeisureCentre #NeathLibrary #NeathTownCentre #retail #swimmingPool #TheRange

First Minister celebrates two Neath Port Talbot Bletchley Park code breakers

Kath Morris and Gwenfron Picken only found out recently that they had both worked at the secretive intelligence facility, Bletchley Park. The veterans were part of a team decoding enemy communications, which helped shorten the war and saved many lives. Their work remained classified for decades after the war ended.

Kath from Neath and Gwenfron from Port Talbot got together at a local church to share memories of their time at Bletchley Park with each other and Eluned Morgan. The celebration of their efforts during the war comes ahead of VE day on the 8th of May, which marked the end of World War Two in Europe after Germany’s unconditional surrender.

Kath said: “I was eighteen when I received a letter to go to the Foreign Office, I was given a typing test and interviewed but I had no idea what it was about. I then received a letter to attend Bletchley Park and I signed the Official Secrets Act. I decoded morse code and passed it to the next person. I was a small cog in a big machine. I didn’t even tell my husband about my job until years later.”

Gwenfron said: “I was eighteen when I was called for an interview where I was asked what I wanted to do to support the war effort, I said a nurse, but I received a letter saying I needed to go to London for an interview. After that I was told to go to Bletchley Park where my work started. I am very proud of my service, I made friends there and had a promotion during my time at Bletchley Park.”

The First Minister, Eluned Morgan, said: “It’s an honour to meet these extraordinary women whose work at Bletchley Park was vital to our wartime effort.”

“Their story reminds us of the many unsung heroes who served in silence for decades.”

“Kath and Gwenfron represent the very best of Welsh contribution to the war effort.”

#BletchleyPark #ElunedMorganMS #FirstMinister #Neath #NeathPortTalbot #PortTalbot #VEDay #Veterans

Machete wielding biker jailed after threatening to stab group of teens

20-year-old James Driver, from Caewern, brandished the knife at three boys in an incident in Aberavon on 22 January.

Terrified onlookers described how Driver brandished a machete and charged at a group of youngsters while threatening to stab them.

He then then rode off on a motorbike, going around a busy roundabout the wrong way cutting-up a number of vehicles, before driving over a pedestrian footpath into Lidl supermarket’s car park.

He was later arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of a bladed article. The machete was found by police officers who were conducting a search of Driver’s address.

In court, Driver pleaded guilty to affray, possession of bladed article, possession of an offensive weapon and dangerous driving. He has five previous convictions for nine offences including driving without a licence and without insurance.

He has been sentenced to sixteen months in prison, serving up to 40% of that sentence in custody before being released on licence to serve the remainder in the community.  He was also banned from driving for 15 months and will have to take an extended test before he can get a licence in future.

PC Lincoln Burrow from South Wales Police said: “James Driver’s behaviour for all three of his offences was unacceptable. Threatening and intimidating behaviour such as that he has displayed will not be tolerated.

“We hope that James will use his time in prison to think hard about his actions and change his ways.”

#Aberavon #Caewern #knifeCrime #Neath #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

Local volunteers to be honoured at Eisteddfod yr Urdd after decades of work for the youth organisation

Each year, individuals who have made a special contribution to Wales’ largest youth organisation are honoured by the Urdd. This year, attention turns to West Glamorgan, and four volunteers will be named Honorary Presidents of Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2025 in a special ceremony on the Maes (the festival ground).

The four Honorary Presidents of Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr 2025 are Davida Lewis, Janet Jones, Menna Bennett Joynson and Wayne Pedrick.

Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts, Urdd Gobaith Cymru said: “The four who are being honoured this year have given over 160 years of support to the movement. Volunteers play a vital role in the work and reach of the Urdd, and we’re delighted to recognise the dedication of these particular four volunteers at a special ceremony at the Eisteddfod on Monday, 26 May.”

Davida Lewis

Brought up in Swansea, Davida Lewis has spent her life in the Eisteddfod’s local area. She established two local choirs: ‘Côr Plant Waunarlwydd’ in 1965 and ‘Côr Waunarlwydd’ in 1970. The choirs have had considerable success locally and internationally for 60 years. The choirs still exist, and even though Davida has transferred the reigns to a new conductor, she still enjoys participating as a member. Being awarded the title of Honorary President at the Eisteddfod in her own area will be a crowning achievement, after her wealth of experiences and successes in Eisteddfodau over the decades.

Janet Jones

Brought up in Loughor, Janet has lived in Neath for over 40 years. Music is in her blood and over the years she has competed regularly on stages, winning several major prizes at Eisteddfod yr Urdd and at the National Eisteddfod.

Janet is the conductor of ‘Parti Llwchwr’. She has shared her musical talents by teaching children to sing and perform at Eisteddfodau and numerous events over the years. She established ‘Adran Nedd’ in 1993 to offer cultural and Welsh experiences to the youth of the area. Following the success of the group, she established ‘Uwch Adran Nedd’ to continue to provide experiences to older children.

She has also been an active member of the Neath and Afan Local Committee, as well as Chair of the Regional Committee. Janet is one of the Vice-Chairs of the Executive Committee for this year’s Eisteddfod yr Urdd.

Menna Bennett Joynson

Menna was born in Llanidloes before her family moved to Llanuwchllyn and then to Aberystwyth. She grew up in a musical and cultured household and was familiar with singing and participating in Eisteddfodau from an early age. At Eisteddfod yr Urdd, she has had considerable success in the field of ‘cerdd dant’, while she also coached pupils to sing and compete in her role as a music teacher at Ysgol Rhydfelen.

In 1976 she moved to Swansea with her husband and raised three children locally. Menna established ‘Adran Sgeti’ in 1978 which later developed into ‘Aelwyd yr Urdd Sgeti’. Over the years, they went on to have considerable success at Eisteddfod yr Urdd. Menna was appointed music teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Gŵyr and a peripatetic harp teacher in the area. She talks of her gratitude to the Urdd, adding that all the experiences she and her pupils have had have greatly enriched her life.

Wayne Pedrick

Wayne’s first experience of Eisteddfod yr Urdd was through his children, Lisa and Aled, when they were pupils at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Gwaun Cae Gurwen and Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera. Both loved to compete, with Aled winning the 2003 Bryn Terfel Scholarship at the Tawe, Neath and Afan Eisteddfod.

Wayne worked at the local coal plant, and in 1998 he got a job as a peripatetic brass teacher. In that role, he encouraged and supported his pupils to compete at Eisteddfod yr Urdd, both as soloists and as an ensemble.

He was appointed Head of the Peripatetic Music Service in Neath Port Talbot in 2016 and helps run three youth and junior orchestras, three youth and junior brass bands and a Youth Choir and Big Band. Wayne also regularly adjudicates instrumental competitions at regional and national Eisteddfodau.

Eisteddfod yr Urdd Dur a Môr will be held at Margam Park between 26 and 31 May. Tickets for Eisteddfod yr Urdd, including for the Triban Festival which will be held on the festival ground, are available at www.urdd.cymru/en/eisteddfod/ 

#choir #Eisteddfod #Loughor #Margam #Music #Neath #Urdd #Waunarlwydd #WelshLanguage

Neath transport hub proposals could mean Victoria Gardens bus station move

The council say the proposal will relocate the existing bus station at Victoria Gardens to Neath railway station, creating a single transport hub in the town centre. Additionally, to help improve and integrate the active travel network into the public transport system, secured cycling facilities and dedicated cycling and walking routes will be added.

If approved, the council says the hub would redevelop the area around Station Square and would serve as a striking new gateway to Neath town centre, encouraging people to visit, shop, work and explore.

The council and its partners, Transport for Wales, Network Rail, and infrastructure experts Amey, want views on the proposals from businesses and members of the public. A public consultation is being held between 30th April and 11th June.

Three drop-in events are also planned at Neath library to allow members of the public to discuss the proposals between Tuesday 13 and Thursday 15 May.

#Neath #NeathRailwayStation #publicTransport #Transport #TransportHub

Council appoints specialist architectural design firm to grow the appeal of Neath Market

The council says that Roberts Limbrick, which has worked with other indoor markets across Wales and the UK, will gather the views of residents, traders, town centre businesses and others to take the market forward while respecting its heritage and sense of place in the heart of Neath.

Cllr. Jeremy Hurley, the council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Economic Growth, said: “The market has been at the centre of community life here since it opened on Green Street back in 1837. The council is committed to the market’s future because of the very important role it plays in the town centre economy providing a unique local offer for both local residents and visitors. 

“It also provides a home for a variety of small and local businesses including antiques, clothing, fresh meat and poultry, fruit and vegetables, household goods, hairdressers, nail bars, pet food and more.

“Roberts Limbrick will be asking for feedback from all parts of the community about ways of progressing the market so please get involved in the process if you want to have your say over the coming months.”

The Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr. Steve Hunt, said: “Neath Market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a cornerstone of the town’s heritage, and a vital part of our local economy. By engaging with residents, traders, and businesses, we aim to ensure that the market will continue to thrive and evolve. Your input is invaluable, so please take this opportunity to shape the future of our beloved market.”

The council says the survey will be shared through social media, local community networks and the local media, as well as in the market itself and in other public outlets, including Neath Leisure Centre and Neath Library.

Local Senedd Member, Sioned Williams recently published a survey into the future of Neath town centre, which gained nearly 400 responses, and revealed how much locals value their historic market, albeit with concerns over its future.

Ms Williams had also been in correspondence with Neath Port Talbot council over their plans for the future of the market. 

#Neath #NeathMarket #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #RobertsLimbrick

Swansea Bay Sewage Scandal: Tawe named as one of the most polluted rivers in UK

According to data published today, the River Tawe is one of the most sewage-polluted in the entire UK.

Figures released today show that Dwr Cymru released sewage into rivers, lakes and the sea for more than 968,000 hours last year, an increase compared to more than 916,000 hours the year before, despite the public outrage and campaigns by groups like Surfers Against Sewage.

The River Tawe saw a staggering 2,173 sewage dumps in 2024, lasting 16,144 hours. This made it the 14th most polluted river in the entire UK.

Meanwhile, the River Neath saw sewage dumped 1,351 times, lasting 7,507 hours.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats, who have been campaigning to clean up Welsh rivers over several years, have stated that the new figures were ‘catastrophic’ for local wildlife and risk damaging tourism and public health.

The Party has stated that the Welsh Government have been ‘asleep at the wheel’, using Dwr Cymru’s position as a so-called ‘non-profit’ and ‘arm’s length’ organisation to avoid proper regulation and accountability.

They have also criticised the previous Conservative UK Government for failing to clamp down on the financial regulation of water companies, with Dwr Cymru having paid out huge bonuses to executives in recent years, despite having one of the worst environmental records of all companies and continuing to charge customers the highest bills in the UK.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Senedd Candidate for Gwyr Abertawe (Swansea West & Gower) and Swansea Councillor for Waterfront Ward, Sam Bennett said: “The Welsh Liberal Democrats have consistently pressed both the UK and Welsh Governments to take meaningful action on this growing environmental crisis. Yet, Welsh Labour has remained asleep at the wheel—using Dŵr Cymru’s status as an arm’s-length body as an excuse to avoid proper regulation and accountability.

“As a result, we’ve seen Dŵr Cymru hike customer bills and hand out ridiculously large bonuses to its executives, all while ranking among the worst water polluters in the UK.

“Our rivers and seas are vital to our wildlife, our culture, and our economy—particularly tourism—and they deserve far better stewardship.

“If elected to the Senedd next year, I will use my voice to continue to hold both water companies and governments to account.”

Adding her comments, Welsh Lib Dem Leader & Senedd Candidate for Neath Jane Dodds MS said: “For years, the Conservatives allowed water companies to get away with polluting our beautiful local rivers while paying out massive and undeserved bonuses, all while charging Welsh customers record-breaking prices.

“The Welsh Labour Government must get to grips with this crisis and properly regulate Welsh Water and ensure there are real, enforceable punishments for breaking the rules and damaging our waterways.

“We’ve been pushing them for years on this issue, but they’ve totally failed to even start to get to grips with it.

#DwrCymru #featured #JaneDodds #Neath #pollution #RiverNeath #RiverTawe #SamBennett #Swansea #WelshLiberalDemocrats #WelshWater

Neath man jailed after campaign of sexual and violent offences

Swansea Crown Court heard how 40-year-old Simon Morgan, from Neath, raped his victim in July 2021. He then refused to leave the victim’s address for several hours until the victim called police.

In a separate incident, following a verbal altercation, Morgan threw his victim onto the sofa and onto the floor. As the victim tried to leave, Morgan pushed them to the floor and stamped on their head several times.

Morgan pleaded not guilty to charges of rape, coercive controlling behaviour and ABH but was found guilty after trial in September 2024.

Following a sentencing hearing, he will now face 14 years in prison.

Detective Inspector Sharon Gill-Lewis from South Wales Police said: “Simon Morgan waged a campaign of violence and terror upon his victim and knew at every stage that his behaviour was likely to have a serious effect on the victim’s wellbeing.

“For too long, the victim has lived in fear of Simon Morgan. We hope that the news that he will be in prison for a number of years will at least allow the victim some semblance of comfort as they try to recover from this terrible ordeal.

“I thank Detective Constable Emma Robbins for her tireless work towards this investigation, and in getting long-awaited justice for the victim.”

(Lead image: South Wales Police)

#assault #Neath #rape #SouthWalesPolice

Lib Dems announce lead candidates for Swansea and Neath Senedd seats at next May’s election

The Gwyr Abertawe constituency covers the Westminster constituencies of Gower and Swansea West, and is one of the party’s top targets in the 2026 election. 

Lead candidate Cllr Sam Bennett has represented the Waterfront ward on Swansea Council since 2022, where he was elected with over 60% of the vote. With a background in marketing at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and Swansea University, Sam is passionate about education and widening participation. He has also been active in the campaign for justice over the cladding scandal affecting flats and high-rise blocks. 

Commenting on his selection, Cllr Sam Bennet said: “I am delighted to be leading the list for the Welsh Liberal Democrats for Gwyr Abertawe.

“The Liberal Democrats are already the largest opposition party in Swansea and as a local Councillor I’ve been holding Labour to account.

“Labour have let Swansea and Gower down, whether it’s the Welsh Government allowing sewage to be dumped in our rivers and seas, letting NHS waiting lists reach their highest level ever, or the UK Labour Government taxing jobs and letting pensioners go cold, people are crying out for change.

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats will be offering voters a positive vision to support small businesses, provide families with better childcare resources and to tackle the crisis in social care to help fix the NHS.”

The Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd constituency stretches from the Mid Wales borders to Swansea Bay, covering the Westminster constituencies of Brecon, Radnor and Cwmtawe and Neath and Swansea East. The Liberal Democrats won the Brecon, Radnor and Cwmtawe constituency at the 2024 General Election. 

Just this week, the Party one a council by-election in Ystalyfera, pushing Labour into fourth place and seeing the Conservatives take just 1% of the vote.

Jane Doods has served as a Senedd Member for Mid & West Wales since 2021 and during that time has helped secure a banking hub in Pontardawe, has campaigned against cuts to local public services as well secured more as for more investment in the Swansea Valley. Prior to entering politics, Jane was a child protection social care worker for over 27 years. 

Speaking at the announcement event, Jane Dodds MS said: “In this election, the Welsh Lib Dems will be the antidote to both years of failure under Labour and the Conservatives, and to the Trumpian delusions of populists and nationalists. Our candidates will be relentlessly focused on improving people’s lives and everyday issues such as fixing the Welsh NHS and growing the Welsh economy.” 

#JaneDoddsMS #Neath #SamBennett #Swansea #WelshLiberalDemocrats

Hope for backing for Neath Market new vision

The visit was organised by Sioned Williams MS off the back of Ms Williams’ survey into the future of Neath town centre, which gained nearly 400 responses, and revealed how much locals value their historic market, albeit with concerns over its future.

Ms Williams had also been in correspondence with Neath Port Talbot council over their plans for the future of the market. 

On Thursday 3 April, Ms Williams and Mandy Gunter, the Chair of the Traders Association took Cabinet Secretary Jayne Bryant, her officials together with the Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, and council officers on a tour of the market to meet traders, hear their concerns and gain their views about what improvements were needed.

During the visit the Council confirmed its commitment to continue working with traders and other town centre businesses to develop a plan for the market, and Ms Williams pressed the Cabinet Secretary for financial support from Welsh Government to help deliver that plan. 

Sioned Williams MS, Plaid Cymru Member of Senedd for South Wales West, said: “Neath Market is not only historically significant, but plays such an important role in attracting footfall to the town centre. I know how much it’s valued by the community, and how many feel that, with more support, it could have an even bigger contribution in ensuring the prosperity of Neath and its local businesses.

“That’s why I felt it so important to get Welsh Government, Neath Port Talbot Council, and traders all together so that all are aware of what needs to be done, what can be done, and – crucially – how we get it done.

“I am grateful to the Cabinet Secretary for coming to Neath following my invitation and I was pleased to hear that Neath Port Talbot Council are in the process of working with traders, neighbouring business owners, and people who shop in the market to develop a plan.

“However, intentions require investment, and with local authorities under significant financial pressure, we need to make sure that Welsh Government understands the importance of the market and why its future must be secured and its potential developed. The market is a central part of the town’s identity, and I have been calling for years for the funding to be made available to realise its full potential. 

“I will keep campaigning to ensure everything is done by the Council and Welsh Government to support and celebrate the ongoing contribution Neath Market makes to the local economy and to the vitality of the town centre.”

#Business #Neath #NeathMarket #retail #SionedWilliamsMS

Women’s touch rugby tournament to support those Touched by Cancer

Ruth Wearing was a member of Bryncoch RFC’s women’s touch rugby team when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer last year.

But her team-mates have continued to share the values which the game prides itself on, supporting her throughout her time on the sidelines.

Ruth said: “I had a pain in my stomach last July and then felt a lump, so I went to my doctor who referred me for an ultra-scan which discovered a cyst.

“Doctors suggested I had a hysterectomy which I had at the end of September and, following that, a biopsy confirmed I had ovarian cancer.”

Ruth began a course of chemotherapy, with treatments every three weeks.

Despite the challenges, she is hoping to return to playing touch rugby with the team, possibly even as soon as August, when the side is one of 16 from across the Swansea Bay region taking part in a women’s touch rugby tournament.

The Touched by Cancer competition at Aberavon RFC’s Talbot Athletic Ground will see scores of women pit themselves against each other in the first event of its kind organised by Swansea Bay Health Charity, the health board’s official charity.

It is in aid of the charity’s Going the Extra Mile for Cancer appeal, which aims to raise £200,000 for the South West Wales Cancer Centre at Singleton

Ruth added: “I was reasonably fit and healthy before I was diagnosed. I’d go for walks and fitness classes.

“About a year earlier, I had started playing touch rugby, and I was going to training every week.

“So when I got the news it was a huge shock. You think with cancer, ‘it’s not going to happen to me’, but you just don’t know.

“When I was told I went into a different world. I was not aware of things like the cold cap for treatment to reduce hair loss for example.

“I’ve had some aches and pains and there have been other side effects, but if I have had problems the nurses and doctors and consultants have been there and able to reassure me.

“Maggie’s charity and my work colleagues have also all been very supportive.

“Hand on heart it has been one of the hardest things I have done. But apart from my family and friends, I have also had support from the rugby team.

“I made new friends when I joined and they have been there for me, with cwtshes or dropping off cards. I’m still in the WhatsApp group and they send messages asking if I want to go for a cup of coffee if I’m feeling up for it. It has been a great support to know they are there. I suppose that’s what rugby’s all about.

“I’ve been back to watch them train recently and maybe when it gets a bit warmer I might be able to join in again. The touch rugby tournament is in August; there’s no guarantee I’ll be ready to play with them then, but who knows? I’ll certainly be going to watch and cheer them on.”

The South West Wales Cancer Centre, or SWWCC, is run by Swansea Bay University Health Board and provides a range of lifesaving NHS treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

It celebrated its 20th anniversary last year and Going the Extra Mile was launched by Swansea Bay Health Charity, to commemorate the landmark.

The appeal will support the thousands of patients from the Swansea Bay and Hywel Dda areas who are cared for there every year, as well as relatives and staff. Its £200,00 target aims to enhance care for patients, support their families, and provide extra resources for the dedicated staff at the cancer centre.

Touched by Cancer women’s touch rugby takes place on Saturday 9th August. It is run mainly by volunteers and will rely heavily on sponsorship to help make it one of the best charity rugby events in Wales.

Cathy Stevens, of Swansea Bay Health Charity, added: “We hope you can join us for the Touched by Cancer Tournament, which looks set to be an exciting competition of women’s touch rugby featuring 16 local teams all competing for the trophy!

“We encourage everyone to come and cheer on the players. Entry is £5, with free admission for children. The first game kicks off at 10am at Aberavon RFC, SA13 1AB.

“Please note that parking may be challenging, so car sharing is recommended. If you can’t attend but still want to support, you can contribute through our fundraising page, Touched by Cancer.”

(Lead image: Swansea Bay NHS)

#Bryncoch #Cancer #Charity #Maggies #Neath #OvarianCancer #Rugby #SouthWalesCancerCentre #SwanseaBayNHS #WomenSRugby

Council looks for views on new Neath cycling and walking plans

Neath Port Yalbot Council says it is looking for views on a new ‘masterplan’ for Active Travel in Neath Town Centre.

The council says the proposals aim to make local routes safer, more accessible, and sustainable, as part of the its commitment to improving health, wellbeing, and the environment, while reducing congestion.

Three routes are being proposed for improvement.

Route one covers Neath Abbey Road, Cadoxton Road and Bridge Street.

A second route goes from Cadoxton Road, the B4434, Riverside Road and Prince of Wales Drive.

The third route covers a section of Gnoll Park Road.

Possible improvements include small-scale enhancements like dropped kerbs and tactile paving, as well as bolder changes like creating shared-use paths and introducing new safe crossing facilities for all users.

The council say the project is still in its early stages, and no decisions have been made yet. The council added that it is keen to hear the public’s views and will use feedback from residents to review and refine the potential ideas presented.

(Lead image: Neath Port Talbot Council)

#ActiveTravel #CadoxtonRoad #cycling #Neath #NeathAbbeyRoad #NeathPortTalbot #walking

Plans approved to demolish Neath’s historic Caewern House to make way for 36 flats

Caewern House, which has been a part of the area since the 1870s, has stood empty since closing as a care home in 2019.

After purchasing the site in 2022, Linc Cymru says it has been focused on preserving the building’s heritage while planning for a sustainable future.

The vacant building has seen “numerous instances of vandalism” and is now in a poor state of repair.

Once demolished, six three-storey blocks of apartments will be constructed, each with six apartments.

Linc Cymru say the development has been designed to blend with the surrounding area, with the homes will facing inward, ensuring privacy for neighbouring gardens and fostering a strong sense of community.

While Caewern House is being redeveloped, Linc Cymru say its rich history will not be forgotten. Thanks to a £164,964 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the housing association is running ‘What Once Stood‘, a project that aims to preserve the history, stories and memories of Caewern House and Lower Dyffryn School in Port Talbot before they are redeveloped. 

Running from January 2024 to January 2026, What Once Stood will capture and share the history of these buildings through research, digital archives, and creative storytelling, ensuring their legacy lives on for future generations.

(Lead image: Tim Morris / Linc Cymru)

#Caewern #CaewernHouse #housingAssociation #LincCymru #Neath

Neath rugby club owner apologises after backlash over sexist match advertisement

On Monday evening Neath RFC posted details on social media of a match against Llangennech set to take place under the lights at the Gnoll stadium on March 28th. It quoted – “This one isn’t for the faint-hearted, this one isn’t for the half-committed, this one is definitely not for girls!”

The post included an image of Neath RFC players with a slogan in pink stamped across it stating the match was “not for girls”.

The club received a backlash online from social media users who branded the advisement sexist and mysogynistic.

Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi called for the post to be taken down and called on Neath RFC to issue an apology saying:

“Disappointing for a club with such a great history and legacy which has inspired so many women and girls to want to play and have played!

“Be good to see it taken down with an apology @neathrfc.”

Sports reporter Beth Fisher called on the WRU to carry out an investigation into the club’s messaging, she said:

“This tweet has been deleted but a full investigation by the WRU should take place into how @neathrfc think it’s acceptable in 2025 to post this type of disgusting sexist messaging.”

Neath RFC have since deleted the post from its social media channels.

Shadow Secretary for Sport, Gareth Davies likened the club’s post to “Yorkie bar-style sexism” he said:

“For Neath RFC to post such a comment, especially during the same week as International Women’s Day, is not just ill-judged but completely unacceptable.

“At a time when the WRU is working to address the deep-seated issues of misogyny within the organisation and the sport, language like this only undermines those efforts and damages the cause of inclusivity in rugby.

“We have moved beyond the outdated, Yorkie bar-style sexism of the past, and the club must recognise that such comments are not just inappropriate but harmful.

“They must take responsibility, address the attitudes behind this remark, and show that rugby is a sport that welcomes everyone.”

The club’s owner Matty Young has since issued an apology this morning which said:

“To respond to our recent post, I sincerely apologise for any offence caused. That was never my intention and in no way flects any attitudes within Neath RFC.

“I take full ownership as the club owner and author of the post. The idea from the start was to shine a light on the casual misogyny that still exists in parts of rugby and, more importantly, to champion the incredible women and girls’ rugby players who represent our club with passion, skill, and dedication.

“I now recognise that the initial post did not effectively convey this message, and for that, lam sorry. I would also like to apologise to Llangennech RFC, who had no prior knowledge that this was our opening strategy. We look forward to welcoming them to The Gnoll.

“In light of the response, I have decided to delay the release of the intended follow-up videos to take the time to reflect, listen, and ensure that we are delivering the right message in a way that fully aligns with our values as a club-one that is committed to inclusivity, respect, and the celebration of women’s rugby.

“Most importantly, I want to make sure this message comes from the women and girls of our club, in their voices.

“I can categorically assure you that our commitment to women’s rugby remains steadfast, and we will continue to champion all participation in rugby.”

A Welsh Rugby Union spokesperson said:

“We asked Neath to remove the post as soon as possible and of course do not condone the sentiment it contained.”

#featured #GnollStadium #Neath #NeathRFC #Rugby #Sexism

RAIB release update as South Wales trains travel ‘significantly’ over weather related speed limits http://dlvr.it/TJ9fHJ #Neath #Network #Newport #RailAccidentInvestigationBranchRAIB