RSPCA CYMRU has called on the new Welsh Government to ensure animal welfare remains a political priority during the next Senedd term.

The charity has written an open letter to Llyr Gruffydd MS, the Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, urging ministers to deliver animal welfare commitments made in Plaid Cymru’s manifesto.

Those pledges included promoting responsible pet ownership and breeding, licensing animal rescues, and strengthening the rights of renters who wish to keep pets.

RSPCA Cymru says Wales has already made progress, including bans on snares and glue traps, mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses, legislation to ban greyhound racing, and moves towards regulating animal sanctuaries, rescues and rehoming centres.

Its Animal Kindness Index found that 75% of people in Wales describe themselves as animal lovers, the highest proportion in the UK. The same survey found that 85% of people in Wales believe animal welfare should be protected through legislation.

Billie-Jade Thomas, RSPCA Cymru’s Senior Public Affairs Manager said: “It’s clear that Wales is a nation of animal lovers and that animal welfare is important to so many people.

“We really do have the opportunity to make huge progress in our animal welfare standards in Wales under the new Welsh Government and we look forward to working with them to ensure every kind of animal in Wales has a good life.

“That starts with those at the helm of the new Welsh Government delivering on their manifesto commitments for animals.”

The charity is also calling for ministers to go further, including granting RSPCA inspectors limited statutory powers, making pet abduction a specific offence in Wales, regulating livery yards, tackling horse tethering, improving farm animal welfare, and introducing mandatory labelling on animal-derived products.

One of the more politically sensitive areas is bovine TB. The RSPCA says it supports efforts to eradicate the disease but wants a humane approach that does not involve badger culling.

Farming unions have previously argued that bovine TB has had a devastating impact on Welsh farms, with cattle slaughtered, businesses disrupted and families placed under serious financial pressure. They have called for a stronger eradication strategy and say any policy must be based on evidence and the practical realities facing farmers.

The issue is likely to remain one of the most difficult areas for the new minister, as animal welfare campaigners, farmers, vets and conservation groups continue to press for different approaches.

RSPCA Cymru is urging supporters to sign its open letter and says animal welfare must not be allowed to slip down the political agenda.

The charity is also encouraging people to take part in its Summer of Kindness campaign, which promotes simple, family-friendly ways to help animals.

CARDIGAN RNLI is inviting the community to enjoy an evening of music, food and fundraising at its fourth annual Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival.

The event will take place at Cardigan RNLI Lifeboat Station on Saturday, June 20, from 3:00pm to 9:00pm.

Organisers say the family-friendly festival will feature live music throughout the afternoon and evening, with performances from Cariad Sound, The Bad Latitudes Shanty Group, Howni Shanty Group and Blaenporth Male Voice Choir.

A wide range of food and drink will also be available from local vendors, including Manuka Asian Street Food, Dewi James BBQ, Pembrokeshire Wood Fired Pizza, Ice Green Vegan Ice Cream, Los Muñecos Mexican Street Food, Bluestones Coffee, Mantle Brewery and Cream Tea.

Tickets cost £5, with all proceeds going towards supporting Cardigan RNLI’s lifesaving work.

Bruce Harris, event organiser said: “Our Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival is a fantastic way to bring the community together while supporting the RNLI’s lifesaving work.

“There’s something for everyone, great music, brilliant local food and a wonderful atmosphere by the water.

“Every ticket sold helps our volunteer crew continue to save lives at sea, so we’re really looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible for a great evening in support of Cardigan Lifeboat Station.”

A GENEROUS eight-year-old girl showed incredible kindness and determination when she donated 12 inches of her hair to help children affected by cancer.

The hair-cutting event took place at the Cross Inn, Broadmoor, where family, friends and members of the local community gathered to support her fundraising efforts. Her donated hair will be used to make wigs for children who have lost their hair during cancer treatment.

Alongside the hair donation, the young fundraiser worked hard to raise £2500 for the charity, with local businesses and residents contributing donations, vouchers and prizes to support the cause. The event helped raise valuable funds while also shining a spotlight on the important work carried out by charities supporting children and families facing cancer.

Her selfless act inspired many people in the community and helped raise awareness of the challenges experienced by young cancer patients. Supporters praised her bravery and generosity, recognising the difference her donation and fundraising efforts will make to children in need.

The event proved to be a wonderful success, demonstrating how one young person’s compassion can bring a community together and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.