News

Welsh rugby crisis eases as district moves to halt crunch WRU meeting

Published

3 months ago

April 2, 2026

A PLANNED extraordinary general meeting of the Welsh Rugby Union could now be called off after the district that pushed for it said its main objectives had been achieved following two high-profile departures from the game’s leadership.

Central Glamorgan Rugby Union had secured enough backing from clubs to force the WRU into holding the meeting on Monday, April 13. The district had tabled three motions, including votes of no confidence in WRU chair Richard Collier-Keywood and Professional Rugby Board chair Malcolm Wall.

But the district has now written to clubs saying it intends to withdraw all three motions, arguing there is no longer a need for the EGM in its current form. That follows confirmation that Collier-Keywood will step down on July 16 after deciding not to seek a second term, while Wall left his role in March at the end of his tenure.

In its letter, Central Glamorgan said the exits of both men, together with the prospect of fresh talks with the WRU board over governance reform, meant the campaign had already achieved its key aims. The district said it now wanted constructive engagement with the WRU over future governance changes, including the way council representatives are elected to the board.

A WRU spokesperson said the union was aware of the letter sent to member clubs and was awaiting direct correspondence from Central Glamorgan.

The row had developed against the backdrop of deepening unrest in Welsh rugby over the WRU’s controversial proposal to reduce the number of professional teams from four to three by June 2027. Those plans have triggered fierce criticism, protests and legal action, particularly over fears for the future of the Ospreys.

While the latest letter did not directly settle that issue, Central Glamorgan urged the WRU to pause its plans for the professional game and publish all the evidence behind any decision before moving forward. The district also called on the union to engage with an alternative proposal aimed at preserving all four professional sides.

Central Glamorgan thanked clubs across Wales for their support, saying they had come together to safeguard the future of the game. The district added that Welsh rugby remained at a critical moment, but said it hoped the latest developments would lead to greater openness, respect and transparency between the WRU and its member clubs.

I can also give you a sharper Herald-style headline and subheadline for this.

Crime

Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay

Published

2 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A 20-YEAR-OLD man remains in a critical condition in hospital after being seriously assaulted in New Quay.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the incident happened at around 12:51am on Saturday (July 4) in Margaret Street, leading to Uplands Square.

The victim suffered serious, life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in police custody.

Police said enquiries are progressing, led by CID and the Major Crime Team. A visible police presence is expected to remain in the area over the coming days.

Officers are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with information, to come forward.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], by direct message on social media, or by calling 101.

Quote reference: DP-20260704-028.

Community

Kilgetty and Begelly tractor run raises funds for local charities

Published

4 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Around 70 tractors joined the annual charity road run, hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel

THE ANNUAL Kilgetty and Begelly Charity Tractor Run brought a colourful convoy to the roads around the Narberth area on Saturday (Jul 4), with around 70 tractors taking part.

The event was hosted by the Begelly Arms Hotel, where farmers, families and supporters gathered before the start of the run.

Entrants were treated to bacon rolls and coffee by the hosts before setting off, while many families took the opportunity to pose for photographs alongside the tractors.

The road run once again proved to be a popular community event, bringing together local farmers, vintage tractor enthusiasts and supporters for a good cause.

The sight of dozens of tractors heading out together made an impressive display as the convoy travelled through the local area.

Organisers said local charities are set to benefit from money raised at the event.

The annual run has become a well-supported fixture in the local calendar, with farming families turning out in force to take part and support the fundraising effort.

For further information, contact Peter Adams at the Begelly Arms on 01834 812601.

Pictures: Malcolm Richards

Community

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival brings village together for colourful celebration

Published

4 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PONTRHYDFENDIGAID Carnival returned in style on Saturday, with a strong community turnout as villagers, families, children and young people gathered on the Village Green before the procession moved on to Bont Pavilion.

The afternoon was full of colour, music and community spirit, with bunting, balloons, decorated floats and smiling faces helping to create a true village celebration.

Among the highlights were the children’s and young people’s entries, which showed real creativity, confidence and effort. Farmyard scenes, animal costumes, a Noah’s Ark-themed float and brightly decorated tableaux all helped bring the carnival to life.

Organisers praised the work that had gone into the displays, competitions and activities, with many families clearly spending hours preparing costumes, props and entries.

The carnival programme featured a wide range of competitions, including floats and tableaux, children’s age-group entries, adverts, pairs, “anything on wheels” and the ever-popular welly throwing competition.

The mix of Welsh and English throughout the event reflected the strong local identity of Pontrhydfendigaid and the importance of keeping village traditions alive for the next generation.

Thanks were also paid to the organisers, volunteers, presidents, compères, families and all those who gave their time behind the scenes. Events of this kind take a great deal of work, and the turnout showed how much the carnival continues to mean to the community.

Pontrhydfendigaid Carnival 2026 proved to be a joyful reminder of what can be achieved when a village comes together.

Photographs and report by Jeremy Rundle