Young woman, 23, from Ammanford remembered as “a miracle” following tragic collision near Rhayader

THE FAMILY of a young woman who died following a road traffic collision on the A470 have paid an emotional tribute to her life.

Ellé Claire Evans, aged 23, from Ammanford, died after the incident which occurred between Doldowlod and Rhayader at around 2:30pm on Tuesday (March 24).

In a statement released through police, her family described her as a “beautiful, amazing, intelligent” young woman whose loss has left them devastated.

They said: “Our beautiful, amazing, intelligent, miracle of a daughter, Ellé Claire Evans, was involved in a road traffic collision at 23 years of age and has now departed from this realm to spend eternity with her Lord & Saviour.

“Ellé gave her all to help those around her in every way she could and as a family, we are devastated at this loss.

“Ellé has always been a bright and shining light everywhere she has ever been and was very much the centre of every gathering.

“We as a family are still processing our loss, pain and sorrow, but also rejoicing in the gift we had in Ellé and the joy she brought to our hearts.

“We miss you already, we love you always and you’ll be in our hearts and memories forever.”

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone who saw the incident, or who may have dash-cam footage from the area at the time, is urged to come forward.

Information can be provided online, via email, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

Quote reference: DP-20260324-197

NEW research from the University of Oxford has found that sperm quality may decline the longer it is stored before ejaculation—raising important questions for men trying to conceive.

The study suggests that prolonged periods without ejaculation can lead to increased DNA damage in sperm, along with reduced motility and overall viability. In simple terms, the longer sperm are “kept in storage,” the more their quality may deteriorate.

Researchers say that more regular ejaculation—whether through sex or masturbation—may help maintain healthier sperm by ensuring a fresher supply.

Balanced approach recommended

While the findings may surprise some, experts stress that the answer is not simply “more is better.”

Too frequent ejaculation, such as multiple times a day, can reduce the number of sperm released each time. On the other hand, long gaps—typically more than five to seven days—may lead to a decline in sperm quality.

As a result, many fertility specialists recommend a middle ground, with ejaculation every one to three days seen as a practical balance between sperm quality and quantity.

Implications for couples

For couples trying to conceive, timing remains key. Regular intercourse during the fertile window—often every one to two days—is widely considered the most effective strategy.

The Oxford findings reinforce the idea that maintaining a steady turnover of sperm may improve the chances of conception, particularly in cases where sperm quality is a concern.

Guidance may evolve

Current global guidance has often advised abstinence for several days before providing sperm samples for testing. However, the new research suggests that shorter intervals between ejaculations could, in some cases, produce better-quality samples.

Experts say further research is needed, but the findings may influence how fertility advice is given in future.

Bottom line

Regular ejaculation is unlikely to harm fertility and may, in fact, support it by improving sperm quality. However, moderation remains important, with most evidence pointing to every one to three days as the most effective approach for men trying to conceive.

Public consultation launched as ministers move to tighten animal welfare laws

TRAIL hunting could soon be banned across Wales and England under new UK Government plans, with a public consultation launched this week (Mar 26).

The move would deliver on a key manifesto pledge and marks the latest step in efforts to strengthen animal welfare protections across the UK.

Trail hunting involves hounds following a pre-laid scent, often animal-based, across the countryside to replicate traditional fox hunting. The practice became widespread after the Hunting Act 2004 outlawed hunting wild mammals with dogs.

However, ministers say trail hunting can still result in harm to wildlife. Concerns have been raised that hounds may pick up the scent of live animals, leading to foxes, hares, and in some cases pets being injured or killed.

There are also ongoing allegations that the activity is sometimes used as a cover for illegal hunting.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman, who leads on hunting for the National Police Chiefs’ Council, has previously warned that trail hunting can act as a “smokescreen”, giving individuals the opportunity to continue traditional hunting practices.

Ministers have stressed that alternative countryside activities—such as drag hunting and clean-boot hunting, which use artificial scents—would still be permitted.

The government acknowledged the role that hunts can play in supporting rural jobs and communities, but said future activity must not put wildlife at risk.

Animal Welfare Minister Baroness Sue Hayman said: “We pledged to ban trail hunting in our manifesto and that is exactly what we intend to do.

“The nature of trail hunting makes it difficult to ensure wild and domestic animals are not put at risk of being killed or injured – that is clearly unacceptable.

“We understand that this is a complex issue and are seeking views from everyone with an interest to help shape how we bring this forward.”

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens added: “It is right that the UK Government is going to ban trail hunting in Wales. In 2004 traditional fox hunting was banned and this is the latest step to ensure we have the highest standards for animal welfare.”

The proposals follow the publication of the government’s wider animal welfare strategy, described as one of the most ambitious reform programmes in a generation.

The public consultation on the ban will run until June 18.