Four Welsh mixed-ability rugby teams selected for International competition

Swansea Gladiators RFC, Llanelli Warriors and Port Talbot Panthers will participate in the Men’s Tournament while the newly formed Merched Cymru will take part in the Women’s Tournament between 22 and 27 June 2025.

With an emphasis on including those with barriers, impairments and disabilities – Mixed Ability rugby union is a competitive contact sport that aims to challenge the stigmas around disability inclusion. The sport uses the same rules and regulations as the standard XV-a-side game set by World Rugby, with the only significant law change being the shift to uncontested scrums. It is not classed as a disability sport, but aims to offer a controlled contact sporting environment to everyone regardless of age, ability, disability or experience.

Wales is generally accepted as the birthplace of mixed ability rugby with the creation of the first ever MA club coming from Swansea in 1991. Since then, Wales has continued to cement itself as a hotbed for the sport with Mixed Ability clubs currently active in Swansea, Llanelli, Port Talbot, Cardiff, Newport, Pembrokeshire, Newtown, Colwyn Bay and Anglesey.

With the sport taking hold in countries around the world – the IMART World Cup was created in 2015 and has since become the most significant event on the Mixed Ability global calendar welcoming teams from the likes of England, Ireland, Italy, Belgium, Canada, Argentina and Chile.

Founded in 2020, Port Talbot Panthers will compete in their first ever World Cup at Spain 2025. The Panthers are based out of Aberavon Green Stars RFC but have close ties to clubs across the local area including Aberavon Harlequins RFC, Taibach RFC and Cwmavon RFC.

Port Talbot Panthers captain Jon Tyrell said: “Attending IMART 2025 means the world to us! Port Talbot Panthers aim to provide rugby playing opportunities to those with mental health difficulties and physical disabilities, for those who can no longer mainstream rugby and those completely new to the game.

“With comparatively smaller player pools and resources than other MA sides, Panthers have always punched above their weight. And through sheer hard work and determination from everyone involved we have done it again to provide this once in a lifetime opportunity to our players- one we intent to grab with both hands and a smile on our face!”

Swansea Gladiators RFC were formed in 1991 and are recognised as the world’s oldest Mixed Ability rugby club. Playing out of Dunvant RFC, Swansea Gladiators have competed in every IMART World Cup to date, reaching the Semi-Finals in 2022. Spain 2025 marks their 4th appearance in the World Cup.

Hosting the meet-and-greet event at Morriston RFC, Swansea Gladiators representative Matt Gemine said: “IMART provides an opportunity for players to show their rugby skills on a World stage, an opportunity that has provided motivation for every Swansea Gladiator in the lead up to this year’s tournament. 

“IMART is the pinnacle of MA rugby.  It’s the opportunity to show how hard you have worked.  It’s the opportunity to show that barriers are nothing.  It’s the opportunity to show that extraordinary people can achieve great things. It’s the opportunity to celebrate all of the achievements every team and individual has made through MA rugby regardless of who they play for. It’s an opportunity for each Swansea Gladiator to show what the Oldest MA club is all about”

Llanelli Warriors, based out of Llanelli Wanderers RFC, were founded in 1995. One of the most influential Mixed Ability Clubs worldwide, this will be the Warriors 3rd World Cup appearance. The club are also founding members of the MARI’s (Mixed Ability Rugby Invitationals Club) and played a crucial role in the assembly of Merched Cymru for IMART 2025.

Llanelli Warriors find themselves in a unique position for Spain 2025 – alongside the Men’s team, the club also founded Merched Cymru to accommodate a selection of Female Mixed Ability players from across Wales.

Merched Cymru are a newly formed Women’s Mixed Ability team – representing several mixed ability and women’s rugby clubs from Wales. The 2025 IMART Squad includes female players from Llanelli Warriors, Port Talbot Panthers, Cardiff Chiefs, Colwyn Bay Stingrays, Morriston Ladies and additional players from the Mixed Ability Community.

Llanelli Warriors Coach and Merched Cymru Founder Jamie Evans said: “I couldn’t be prouder of the Llanelli Warriors and Merched Cymru—two incredible teams that represent everything rugby should be about: fun, community, and inclusion. Watching both squads grow, overcome challenges, and support one another on and off the pitch has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

“The Warriors have always shown what’s possible when you believe in people, and Merched Cymru are blazing a trail for women in mixed ability rugby in Wales.”

#Llanelli #LlanelliWarriorsRFC #MerchedCymruRFC #MixedAbilityRugby #PortTalbot #PortTalbotPanthersRFC #Rugby #Swansea #SwanseaGladiatorsRFC

Taibach vape shop shut down after selling illegal cigarettes and vapes

A District Judge at Swansea Magistrates Court approved the closure of Vape Land in Commercial Road, Taibach, under Section 80 Of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Trading Standards Team say the premises had been selling counterfeit and non-tax paid tobacco and cigarettes as well as Illegal and oversized vapes on a number of occasions since June of last year.

A Senior Investigations Officer from the council’s Trading Standards Team gave the District Judge a brief history of Vape Land, explaining that on June 12th, 2024 a test purchase of a pouch of Amber Leaf hand rolling tobacco was made by colleagues as part of a national operation – trademark holders later confirmed the tobacco to be counterfeit.

In August 2024, South Wales Police and Neath Port Talbot Council Enforcement Officers conducted an inspection at Vape Land which led to vapes, leaf tobacco and cigarettes being seized.

The District Judge was further told more complaints were received regarding the sale of non-compliant single use vapes, cigarettes and tobacco and the sale of vapes to people under 18.

As a result, a further operation with South Wales Police took place in April of this year during which vapes, cigarettes and leaf tobacco were seized. All the single use vapes seized were found to contain far in excess of the fluid allowed for such products.

The District Judge agreed to the closure order at a hearing on June 12th, 2025 after being told by the investigations officer it was the council’s view that unless the shop was closed the nuisance would not stop.

The court heard the person who has been leasing the shop since April 2024 could not be traced for interview.

The sale and supply of single-use (disposable) vapes across the UK became illegal on June 1, 2025. This ban applies to all businesses, both online and in-store, regardless of whether the vapes contain nicotine. 

The rationale behind the ban is to address the environmental impact of disposable vapes, which are often discarded improperly and contain harmful substances. The ban also aims to protect children and young people, as disposable vapes are seen as appealing to underage vapers. 

Non-compliant single use vapes of the type found at Vape Land are often in colourful, child-appealing packaging and flavours. The consequences to the mental health of the impressionable children purchasing these vapes can be long term and very serious.

The NPT Council Senior Investigations Officer told the District Judge: “The business which was trading from this premises was operating with blatant disregard to the consequences the children would suffer due to accessing these vapes.”

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, Cllr Cen Phillips said: “I commend our Trading Standards Officers for achieving this closure order and I would urge anyone who cares about their community and their children’s health to report any information they have relating to illegal tobacco or vape sales.”

#CllrCenPhillips #illegalCigarettes #illegalVapes #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PortTalbot #Taibach #TradingStandards

New Aldi and Starbucks gets green light in Aberavon

Members of Neath Port Talbot Council’s Planning Committee gave the go ahead for the development earlier this month. It will involve 141 parking spaces, a number of bicycle parking hoops and 18 Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points.

The Starbucks outlet will come with an associated drive-thru facility. The planning permission also covers landscaping and drainage works and access onto the adjacent Afan Way and Water Street.

The new development will also mean Active Travel benefits for Water Street. There will be a new pedestrian / cycle route from Water Street (3.5m wide) and a widened footway along Water Street’s southern flank (3.2m wide).

Cllr Jeremy Hurley, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Economic growth said: “This proposal will result in the redevelopment of what has been derelict, unsightly, underused and vacant land.

“The project will contribute to creating a more viable ‘destination’ for shoppers both travelling to Port Talbot via car or using active travel.”

A planning officers’ report said: “It is considered the proposal represents an appropriate form of development that integrates well within the surrounding urban context, with no adverse impacts upon visual amenity, residential amenity, flood risk or drainage, land contamination, highway or pedestrian safety nor biodiversity.”

Public consultation led to 317 representations of support with just three objections.

The planning committee was told the development fits in with Future Wales: The National Plan 2040 which is the national development framework, setting the direction for development in Wales to 2040.

The development plan sets out a strategy for addressing key national priorities through the planning system, including sustaining and developing a vibrant economy, achieving decarbonisation and climate resilience, developing strong ecosystems and improving the health and wellbeing of communities.

#Aberavon #ALDI #BurrowsYard #Business #coffeeShop #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PortTalbot #retail #Starbucks #supermarket

Farage promises ‘reindustrialisation’ of Wales reopening coal mines and restoring steel production

At the conference in Port Talbot, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage promised to “reindustrialise” Wales by restarting coal production and “reopening” Port Talbot’s steelworks.

Port Talbot’s Steelworks have not actually closed, but its two blast furnaces were closed last year as part of Tata Steel’s plans to install a £1.25billion electric arc furnace as part of a push towards greener steel production and cost savings.

The plans resulted in the loss of thousands of jobs at the plant.

Labour has proposed banning new coal mines from opening in the UK, however Mr Farage has said he would defy the UK Government to bring coal mining back to Wales.

If Reform win the Senedd election, Mr Farage also pledged to start a ‘Welsh DOGE’ to cut costs emulating the work of Elon Musk’s controversial White House task force in the USA.

He added the party would “use Welsh Development Grants to support real industry. We’ll redirect economic funding from consultants and NGOs to actual factory floors, machinery, and industrial jobs in places like Llanelli, Shotton, and Ebbw Vale”.

Mr Farage also proposed setting up “regional technical colleges” for people to have a “path into proper trade”.

The Labour Party have hit back at Mr Farage’s claims.

A Welsh Labour spokesperson said: “Nigel Farage has no plans for steel – just a camera crew. You can’t restart a blast furnace with a press conference.

“Nigel Farage says that hopefully they mightthey’ll bring back mining. The people of Wales will see through the false hope and false promises of a public-school boy from England who does not understand them and does not understand Wales.

“His answer is to bring back the mines. The only thing Nigel Farage is trying to mine is votes from communities that have already gone through tough times.

“Nigel Farage has today brought his fantasy politics and magic money tree to Port Talbot. He’s gambling with real people’s livelihoods.”

Meanwhile environmental campaign group Greenpeace have said Reform’s plan to bring back coal has “as much chance of success as resurrecting dinosaurs”

Greenpeace climate campaigner Mel Evans said: “Farage is peddling false promises as usual. Bringing back the British coal industry has about as much chance of success as resurrecting dinosaurs. It’s frankly an insult to the thousands of Welsh steelworkers who are losing their jobs and the local community. 

“Doing steelworkers and their children justice means investing in the industries and jobs of tomorrow, like green steel production and renewables. This is not just good for the climate – it’s good financial sense. Reform’s impractical and sentimental ideas would set back Wales and the UK in the global race to build a green tech economy.”

Commenting ahead of Nigel Farage’s visit to Wales, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS said: “Nigel Farage has some real cheek to come to Port Talbot and promise them the world while his best mate Donald Trump is threatening to destroy the remnants of our steel industry, with yet more tariffs at the end of this month.

“Like his idols, Donald Trump and Liz Truss, Nigel Farage would wreck the Welsh economy and local services with unfunded tax cuts and the hollowing out of public services.

“I understand that a lot of people are frustrated that they have been let down by Labour in Wales and the Conservatives across the entire UK, but it’s the Liberal Democrats who are offering real change, not Reform. We are passionate local campaigners focused on getting you swift access to local healthcare and ensuring that schools are safe places for our kids.

“Last year’s general election shows that we are winning again. And in a recent by-election in Neath Port Talbot, we easily beat Reform and pushed Labour into 4th place in the sort of industrial heartlands both claim ownership of.”

#Coal #coalMine #mining #NigelFarage #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #ReformUK #steelworks #TataSteel

Council granted £803k to draw up plans for Grade II listed Port Talbot bridge

Neath Port Talbot Council has been awarded £803,000 in UK Government funding via the Levelling Up Fund to carry out detailed design work for a proposed Active Travel project involving Port Talbot’s historic Newbridge Road Bridge.

The proposed overall scheme involves renewal work on the Grade II listed bridge and redeveloping the adjacent Dock Road as far as the roundabout linking Dock Road and Harbour Way.

The total estimated cost of the proposed project is £13.5m, with £12.3m to come from UK Government funding via the Levelling Up Fund and £1.2m being matched by Neath Port Talbot Council.

UK Government funding for the project will not be confirmed until early July after a budget review but the design work funding will allow a start to be made on the scheme.

Neath Port talbot Council say the proposed scheme will preserve the deteriorated Grade II listed bridge structure and improve east-west connectivity in Port Talbot, reducing ‘severance’ created by the River Afan.

The council say the scheme will also provide a more attractive, safe, and continuous traffic-free route, avoiding the heavily trafficked Victoria Road and increase the coherence and density of the local active travel network, improving linkages to a national cycle route.

Cllr Wyndham Griffiths, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Transport and Connectivity said: “This initiative aims to improve walking and cycling connections in the area by restoring the historic bridge, which was closed decades ago, and creating safer, more accessible routes. 

“The plan includes using the existing bridge piers for a pedestrian and cycle bridge, potentially revitalising the route and providing better connectivity.”

Erected by the former Aberavon Corporation, the bridge was officially opened on October 29th 1903 as a result of expansion at Port Talbot’s docks.

The bridge is listed by Cadw as “a finely detailed plate-girder bridge which is unusual at this date for carrying a strategic road rather than a railway. The association with the development of Port Talbot docks is of additional historic interest.”

The bases of original gas lamp-posts are still mounted on the bridge’s large, square stone piers.

#CllrWyndhamGriffiths #featured #LevellingUpFund #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #NewbridgeRoadBridge #PortTalbot #UKGovernment

Time of the essence to find home for Port Talbot dog who was found as a stray

Lurcher Alfie was discovered roaming the streets at the end of December, and rescued by charity Angels for Animals Foundation.

The two-year-old dog has since been living in a foster home as part of a residential training programme in Port Talbot in Wales.

But Alfie’s training placement finishes at the end of June, and he will then have to be returned to kennels. Angels for Animals – which works to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abandoned and abused dogs – is desperately trying to find a permanent home for the loveable hound to spend the rest of his days.

Charity founder Katie Harrison-Holland said: “When Alfie’s residential training programme ends, he will have nowhere to go other than to our kennels. This would set his progress back and make all the effort and money spent worthless, which is heart-breaking.

“We need to find him a home where he can start thriving but unfortunately, we have had no interest in Alfie, for no fault of his own.

“Alfie is a very special dog and whoever adopts him will have an absolute treasure. He is loyal, playful, intelligent and an absolute bundle of energy who loves people.”

Alfie is a bouncy dog so needs a home without children, and can live with or without another dog. He can be left alone for a couple of hours, but would need a home with an experienced owner who is home most of the time.

Katie added: “Alfie is more than ready to find his forever home and his foster carer will also be on hand to provide training support.

“This is a great opportunity to adopt a loving sighthound with a great foundation of training.

“Alfie will be a great companion dog for an adopter who wants to be with their dog as much as possible, either in the home or out and about.”

Visit angelsforanimals.org.uk/2025/01/09/alfie/ to find out more about Alfie and to get in touch about adopting.

#adoptADog #AngelsForAnimals #animalRescue #Dogs #PortTalbot

New community garden opens in Port Talbot’s Sandfields

The garden, developed on unused green space behind Sandfields Library, was officially unveiled this week by Councillor Jo Hale, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Alan Roberts, local resident and Chair of the Friends of Sandfields Community group.

Led by Local Area Coordinator Aled Davies and supported by a wide range of local residents, volunteers and partner organisations, the garden is the result of more than two years of community-led development in Sandfields. It follows the success of working alongside the weekly coffee mornings, multi-agency drop-in sessions, the area’s first ‘Library of Things’ (a scheme where you can loan out everyday items), and more recently, a new food pantry and repair café.

Organisers say the garden will now provide a welcoming space for people to meet, grow fresh produce, and support biodiversity – with all produce made available for local residents to enjoy.

This project was funded by the Keep Wales Tidy Local Spaces for Nature (supersize package) who provided the resources and knowledge of Roger Key who helped the volunteers build the garden.

Councillor Jo Hale said: “This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local people are empowered and supported to take the lead in their communities. The garden is more than just a green space – it represents connection, purpose and pride. I was honoured to be invited to open the garden and to see first-hand how much it means to those involved.”

The project has been supported by a wide range of organisations including Keep Wales Tidy, Tai Tarian, The Woodland Trust, Morrisons, local councillors, Coastal, CJ Construction, Tempo Time Credits, NPT Community Food Partnership, The National Lottery, and pupils and staff from Awel-y-Mor.

Roger Key, Roving Officer for Keep Wales Tidy said: “It’s been fantastic to work alongside such passionate volunteers to bring this space to life. Thanks to the Supersize Package from our Local Places for Nature scheme, we were able to transform an underused area into a vibrant garden that will benefit both people and wildlife for years to come. We were thrilled to attend the opening and can’t wait to see the garden thrive.”

In addition to supporting people in need in the community, Local Area Coordinators say they also help people to start up local community groups that benefit local residents and help them to grow.

#CommunityGarden #Gardening #KeepWalesTidy #LocalAreaCoordination #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PortTalbot #Sandfields

Ymlacio ar ôl diwrnod gwlyb iawn yn #Eisteddfod Yr #Urdd.

Da iawn i'r trefnwyr a'r cystadleuwyr - cyfle ardderchog i bobl ifainc.

#PortTalbot #ParcMargam #EisteddfodYrUrdd

Port Talbot man jailed after drink and drug fuelled arson at his own housing association flat

42-year-old Nicholas Ronan, from Sandfields in Port Talbot, confessed to having started the fire at his flat on Parry Road at the scene on 9 December 2024. He later attacked police officers attending the scene.

A sentencing hearing at Swansea Crown Court heard how Ronan threw a dumbbell through the glass of a second-floor window.

A resident was seen running out of the block of flats shouting “He’s lit a fire!”, before a passerby spotted Ronan through the broken window watching TV, drinking cider and snorting what appeared to be cocaine.

Ronan then refused to leave the burning flat saying “the ghosts are going to get me”.

Once outside the building, Ronan then threatened a firefighter and a police officer with a dumbbell, before admitting setting the fire with his curtains as he was cold.

Damage to the Tai Tarian flat caused by Ronan was estimated at £60,000.

After a psychiatric report deemed Ronan fit for court, he was sentenced to four years and four months in prison.

Detective Sergeant Grant Phillips from South Wales Police said: “Nicholas Ronan’s reckless actions could have resulted in a fire spreading to neighbouring properties and other people being injured or worse. He clearly posed a significant risk to the public.

“His neighbours, some of whom live with their children, were rightfully highly concerned about their safety whilst living near to Ronan.

“Prison is the best place for him.”

#Arson #PortTalbot #Sandfields #SouthWalesPolice

‘Immature’ Aberavon man jailed following controlling and abusive behaviour

South Wales Police say that 36-year-old Richard Clement would take his ex-partner’s phone to prevent her from communicating with others. In one incident, when Clement’s ex-partner refused to drive him to a friend’s house, he took her car keys before throwing her to the floor and carrying out a physical assault.

On one occasion he attended the address of his ex-partner’s friend, where his ex-partner was staying, and caused damage to vehicles owned by both the ex-partner and her friend by throwing a stone at them.

After his arrest, Clement displayed threatening behaviour towards the interviewing police officer, saying they had “sh*t evidence” and threatening to “knock out” the detective who was asking him questions. 

Swansea Crown Court heard that Clement had a crack cocaine addiction at the time of the offences.

Clement pleaded guilty to the offences of assault causing actual bodily harm, coercive and controlling behaviour and criminal damage.

He has nine previous convictions for 21 offences including ABH, battery, unlawful wounding and making threats to kill in relation to a different partner.

He was jailed for 30 months in June 2021 after being found guilty of dealing cocaine in Port Talbot.

At a sentencing hearing in Swansea Crown Court, Judge Paul Thomas said Clement was an “immaturely jealous man” who behaved more like a 13-year-old boy with his first crush than a man in his late 30s.

He has been sentenced to two years in prison and given a restraining order against the victim.

Detective Constable Andrew Williams from South Wales Police said: “Richard Clement is an individual who is too immature to feel comfortable in a relationship if he doesn’t have complete control over his partner.

“His ex-partner was perfectly entitled to want to distance herself from Clement after the vile ordeal to which he subjected her.

“This was disgraceful, bullying behaviour for which there is no place anywhere in our community.”

#Aberavon #controllingBehaviour #domesticAbuse #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

Record-breaking numbers to compete at next week’s Urdd

Following the final rounds of the Urdd’s Composing and Creating Competitions (homework), the organisation is proud to announce a record-breaking 119,593 registrations to compete in this year’s festival, which also includes a significant rise (of 42%) in the number of young Welsh learners compared to last year.

Organisers have also confirmed details for the shuttle bus service running between Port Talbot (Parkway) train station to the Eisteddfod Maes throughout the week. The service is free to the public, running between 06:30 and 21:56 or 23:26 (depending on which day).

Thanks to a £200,000 support package from the Welsh Government, lower income families can access the Maes for free once again this year.

Llio Maddocks, Director of the Arts, Urdd Gobaith Cymru said: “Eisteddfod yr Urdd is for all. Seeing more young people and more Welsh learners than ever choosing to take part this year proves that the Eisteddfod is meeting the needs and the interests of the young people of Wales, providing them with valuable opportunities to experience activities and opportunities to build their self-confidence through the medium of Welsh. A huge thank you in advance to the hundreds of volunteers helping us at the festival next week.”

As well as competitors, local talent and celebrities be visiting the Eisteddfod, including the festival’s President Jeremy Miles MS, and five Presidents of the Day: actor Steffan Rhodri, famous for his role as ‘Dave Coaches’ in Gavin and Stacey, presenters and sports stars Lowri Morgan and Sarra Elgan, entrepreneur Emyr Afan from Afanti and singer and TikTok star Bronwen Lewis, who also performed the Eisteddfod’s Welcome Song alongside Huw Chiswell.

Triban Festival continues on the maes over the weekend (30-31 May). Friday night will be a tribute to Welsh musician and performer Dewi Pws, with artists including Mei Gwynedd and band, Dadleoli, Taran, local schools and more. Saturday will be an evening with Huw Chiswell, Bronwen Lewis, Aleighcia Scott and other popular artists. 

The Urdd and the local Council say they acknowledge the incredible work and dedication of local residents who have worked tirelessly over the past three years to raise money for the event.

Neath Port Talbot Councillor and Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing said: “As we eagerly anticipate the National Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2025, I am delighted to welcome this prestigious event to our beautiful county. The record-breaking number of registrations and the increase in young Welsh learners highlight the festival’s growing impact and importance. We are proud to host such a vibrant celebration of Welsh culture and arts at Margam Country Park. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in organising this event and look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to experience the best of Neath Port Talbot.”

Live broadcasts on S4C and BBC Radio Cymru

For those unable to attend this year, S4C will be broadcasting the competitions from the Red, White and Green pavilions from 8.00am every day and they will be streamed on Clic.

For the first time, it will also be possible to look back on the streams and re-watch competitions, by watching Clic on desktop devices. The streams will be available for a period of 3 days after the competitions have taken place and it will be possible to ‘spool’ the stream by watching on a computer or laptop. This will be available from the ‘Our picks’ section at the top of the Clic home page.

S4C’s live daily programmes will be hosted by Trystan Ellis Morris and Heledd Cynwal between 10.30am and 6.30pm and a highlights programme will air every night at 8.00pm. These programmes will be available on demand on Clic and BBC iPlayer with English subtitles.

BBC Radio Cymru and the Ifan Evans programme will be broadcasting daily live radio shows on the Maes between 2pm and 5pm, with Jac Northfield joining in. All winners will also be featured across the station and BBC Cymru Fyw will share the latest daily news and stories online.

The main daily ceremonies will take place in the white pavilion at 2pm: Monday, Chief Artist and Art Medal; Tuesday, the Drama Medal; Wednesday, Welsh Learners Medal and the Bobi Jones Medal; Thursday, the Chairing; Friday, the Crowning; Saturday, Main Composer Medal.

#Eisteddfod #MargamCountryPark #NeathPortTalbot #PortTalbot #Urdd #WelshLanguage

Man jailed after cannabis plants starting growing through wall of house into next door

26-year-old Tu Ba Dien has been jailed after he pleaded guilty to producing Class B drugs.

Police were alerted to the Sandfields property after cannabis plants were found to have started growing through a wall into a neighbouring address.

Officers found that all three bedrooms, as well as the attic, were being used to grow cannabis.

Tu Ba Dien was sentenced to 12 months in prison.

Sergeant Carys Pudner from South Wales Police said: “Tu Ba Dien was the only person found at the address during the drugs warrant, but as is always the case, he is just one of many people involved in the network enacting this illegal trade.

“It hasn’t paid off for him – he will lose the next year to a prison term.”

#Cannabis #CannabisFarm #PortTalbot #Sandfields #SouthWalesPolice

Work to begin on Port Talbot’s Civic Square and Princess Royal Theatre

The council has appointed building experts Morgan Sindall Construction as the main contractors on the project which it says is aimed at regenerating the town centre and improving key facilities.

The Civic Centre itself is not included in the regeneration project and public parking will continue to be available in the civic centre’s ‘top car park’ prior to the barriers.

The regeneration project, which is funded by the UK Government, aims to ‘rejuvenate and modernise’ the 798-seat Princess Royal Theatre by improving customer experience with new cafes, an extension to the southwest elevation of the building, a remodelled bar servery area and an auditorium entrance lobby with a large, modern foyer.

Other additions for the theatre include improved  conferencing facilities, a remodelled, lightweight orchestra pit, better sound and lighting along with additional technical improvements designed to host a wider variety of productions at the popular venue.

The council say that Port Talbot’s Civic Square will be transformed into a multi-purpose community space with features such as new seating and significantly improved green spaces with extensive tree and shrub planting.

This ‘greening’ of the Civic Square will involve a 70% increase in trees and the area will also benefit from ‘rain gardens’ – green areas designed specifically to hold and soak in rainwater runoff.

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetscene, Cllr Scott Jones said: “We will appreciate people’s understanding and patience as we begin work to enhance and transform Port Talbot’s town centre area. 

“We want to keep our residents and customers fully informed about access to our key facilities and any potential disruptions during the work so look out for social media posts and other council announcements.”

#CivicSquare #featured #MorganSindallConstruction #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PortTalbot #PrincessRoyalTheatre #regeneration

New Port Talbot mural pays tribute to Meyrick Sheen

The mural has been added alongside an existing portrait of actor, Michael Sheen

Writing on social media, Steve Jenkins, known as street artist ‘Jenks’ said: “Meyrick Sheen was at one time more famous than his son and still very fondly thought of in the town of Port Talbot. So it only seemed right that he should join his son in the mural in Forge Road after passing away last weekend. My condolences to the family.”

Meyrick’s son Michael posted an emotional tribute to his father on social media who died on Sunday 11 May.

#Art #Jenks #MeyrickSheen #MichaelSheen #mural #PortTalbot

Michael Sheen pays an emotional tribute to his father Meyrick on his passing

Writing on social media platform X on Sunday (11 May), Michael said: “On behalf of my family it is with heartbreaking sadness that I mark the passing of my beautiful father Meyrick Sheen today.

“We were with him throughout. There will never be anyone like him. RIP Meyrick Sheen (1940 – 2025).”

Thank you to the amazing staff at Swn Y Mor care home and Morriston & NPT hospitals. Your kindness made all the difference. That beautiful portrait is by Roo Lewis. He loved it and so do we. X

— michael sheen 💙 (@michaelsheen) May 11, 2025

He added: “Thank you to the amazing staff at Swn Y Mor care home and Morriston & NPT hospitals. Your kindness made all the difference. That beautiful portrait is by Roo Lewis. He loved it and so do we. X”

Meyrick was a British Steel Corporation personnel manager as well as a Jack Nicholson impersonator.

His son Michael, has followed in his father’s footsteps emulating famous faces such as Tony Blair, David Frost and Brian Clough in hugely successful Hollywood films.

Meyrick suffered a heart attack in 2021 and received a quadruple bypass, prompting support for the British Heart Foundation.

Meyrick and Irene donated some of their son Michael’s suits to their local British Heart Foundation shop in Port Talbot, with Meyrick saying “Thanks to my heart surgery I’ve been able to have an active and happy life.”

He added: “The research the BHF funds has made a difference to the lives of countless families like ours, and we want to help raise awareness and donations so that more progress can be made into the causes and treatment of heart conditions.”  

Responding to the news of Meyrick’s passing, Local MP, Stephen Kinnock said: “This is so terribly sad. Meyrick was truly one of the warmest, kindest and loveliest people. A legend of our amateur dramatic scene, and a much loved and hugely respected presence in our community.

“Deepest condolences to Irene, Michael, family and loved ones.”

Nia Clark reflected on memories of Meyrick through local amateur theatre, saying: “I knew Meyrick through the Port Talbot Youth theatre. Lovely guy, so passionate about the society.

“My thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP Meyrick.”

Resolven resident, Chris Evans added: “Oh that’s such sad news, Meyrick was such a nice guy, who did so much good in and around the community and farther afield.

“He will be deeply missed.”

#featured #MeyrickSheen #MichaelSheen #PortTalbot

Transport for Wales launches ‘Mistar Urdd’ train at Port Talbot

The train was welcomed by First Minister Eluned Morgan, along with Siân Lewis, CEO of the Urdd and Ysgol Tyler’r Ynn.

The new CAF Class 197 trains have been running all over the Wales and Borders network since 2022 and are part TfW’s £800 million investment into brand-new trains.  

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “It’s great to see one of our new trains named after Mr Urdd, who has a special place in the hearts of so many of us in Wales and will bring a smile to the faces of passengers.

“What better way to travel to the Urdd Eisteddfod, and so many events in Wales this summer,  than aboard one of our brand new Transport for Wales trains.”

Lowri Joyce, Welsh Language Strategy Lead said:  “Who better and more iconic than Mr Urdd, who is recognisable by almost all children in Wales. We are also pleased to be supporting the Urdd’s Fund for All, to allow children from impoverished backgrounds to enjoy a holiday at one of their many camps.

“We are proud to give him a big Croeso Cynnes onto our network ahead of the Eisteddfod in Margam Park so do keep an eye out for him as he travels all over Wales.”   

Siân Lewis, Chief Executive of the Urdd, added:  “Getting to the Eisteddfod in Margam by public transport will be extremely easy.

“A bus service will be provided between Port Talbot train station and the Maes, and further details will be on our website.

“This goes hand in hand with our commitment to running a green festival and reducing carbon emissions.”

#Class197Trains #ElunedMorganMS #FirstMinister #MargamCountryPark #PortTalbot #TransportForWales #Urdd

Transport for Wales Names New Train Ahead of Youth Festival http://dlvr.it/TKdpDF #Network #PortTalbot #RailNews #TransportforWales

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

Taskforce aims to clamp down on Aberavon Beach antisocial behaviour

The operation sees South Wales Police work closely in partnership with Neath Port Talbot Council, Safer Neath Port Talbot, the RNLI and other agencies in order to make the beachfront a pleasant space for all to enjoy.

Police say that on occasions throughout the summer, Section 35 dispersal will be authorised on the beachfront, meaning that people involved in anti-social behaviour will be required to leave the area.

The designated area to leave is defined as: Entirety of the Beach area including The ‘Small Beach’, North Pier, and the entirety of the promenade area including businesses along the promenade such as Remo’s and Franco’s to Baglan Bay Beach, including the dunes at this beach.

Inspector Jared Easton from South Wales Police said: “Op Adriatic is a co-ordinated multi-agency response which has been launched to ensure that Aberavon Seafront remains a safe, welcoming and enjoyable space for everyone this spring and summer. The operation will focus on engaging with the public and preventing any anti-social behaviour.

“The operation is part of a wider seasonal approach to support the local community and visitors by encouraging positive behaviour and promoting shared responsibility for keeping the beach environment safe and respectful.
“Partnership working is key, and by combining resources and sharing intelligence, we’re better-placed to prevent issues from escalating and offer support where needed.

“By engaging early and often, we can prevent issues before they start and ensure everyone feels safe and included.”

Councillor Alun Llewelyn, Deputy Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council and Cabinet Member for Housing & Community Safety, said: “Operation Adriatic is a vital part of our summer safety plans, and through our Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership, we will be working closely with South Wales Police and other partners to keep Aberavon Seafront safe and enjoyable for all.

“The beachfront is one of our county borough’s most loved spaces, and we know how important it is to local families, residents and businesses. By combining our efforts—whether that’s through community engagement, youth outreach, or targeted enforcement where needed—we’re helping create a welcoming environment where everyone can feel safe.”

Clive Morris, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: “Operation Adriatic is now entering its fourth season. It was developed to make the beachfront area a safer and more desirable place for everyone to enjoy. The RNLI has teamed up with other agencies to reduce response times to incidents involving missing persons and to enhance overall safety coverage along the seafront.

“By working together, we’ve created a vibrant and welcoming beachfront that continues to attract more visitors. It’s always a pleasure to see our partners at South Wales Police working from our station — their presence makes a real difference.”

#Aberavon #AberavonBeach #antisocialBehaviour #PortTalbot #RNLI #SouthWalesPolice

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