Police thank community and media following public appeal to trace suspect

AN ARREST has been made following last week’s stabbing in Carmarthen that triggered a major police search and public appeal.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the development on Monday after officers spent several days carrying out extensive searches around Carmarthen Park and surrounding areas.

The force had been trying to locate 57-year-old James McKenna in connection with an attempted murder after a woman was attacked inside the park on Thursday afternoon.

Detective Chief Superintendent Ross Evans said: “We would like to thank the media and our communities for assisting our investigation so far.”

The incident happened shortly after 4:00pm on Thursday when a woman was injured inside the park and managed to escape through the Picton Terrace entrance to raise the alarm.

Emergency services, including the Welsh Ambulance Service, attended and the victim was taken to hospital with stab wounds. Police have since confirmed she is expected to make a full recovery.

Over the weekend, officers carried out forensic examinations and systematic searches of the park, nearby allotments, wooded areas and along the River Towy. Specialist teams, including dog handlers and drone pilots, were deployed as part of the operation.

A knife believed to have been used in the attack and a rucksack were recovered during the searches.

Police have not yet released further details about the arrest or any charges.

Officers previously thanked local residents for their patience during road closures and visible policing in the area, and say enquiries remain ongoing.

Anyone with information is still urged to contact police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Police expand searches across riverbank and woodland as public urged to come forward with information

DYFED-POWYS POLICE say their search for a man wanted in connection with an attempted murder in Carmarthen Park is continuing.

Officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries since Thursday afternoon (4:00pm) when a woman was attacked inside the park.

The 57-year-old suspect, James McKenna, remains outstanding.

He is described as white, British, around five foot seven inches tall, bald with white facial hair. At the time of the incident, he is believed to have been wearing a green coat and a blue beanie hat.

Police were called just after 4:00pm following reports a woman had been injured inside the park. She managed to escape through the Picton Terrace entrance and raise the alarm.

Officers attended alongside colleagues from the Welsh Ambulance Service. The victim was taken to hospital for treatment to stab wounds and is expected to make a full recovery.

Since then, specialist teams have carried out forensic examinations and systematic searches of the park, nearby allotments, woodland, wetlands and the River Towy riverbank.

Dog handlers, drone pilots and police search advisers have been involved in the operation.

A knife believed to have been used in the attack, along with a rucksack, has been recovered.

Detectives are also carrying out digital and financial enquiries and have contacted local transport providers to determine whether the suspect attempted to leave the area.

Detective Chief Superintendent Ross Evans said officers had worked continuously over the weekend.

He said: “We are doing all we can to locate James McKenna. Our searches have expanded to cover large wooded areas and places he is known to frequent.

“At this time, we do not believe he has left the area using transport, but we urge anyone with information to get in touch immediately.

“Despite the seriousness of the attack, the victim is expected to make a full recovery. We are supporting her and her family.

“We thank the community for their cooperation while our work continues.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police online, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

Consultation invites unpaid carers across the country to shape new national strategy

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has unveiled plans to make Wales a “Carer Aware” nation, with a new public consultation launched today (Monday, Feb 2) aimed at improving recognition and support for the country’s thousands of unpaid carers.

Ministers say the move is designed to ensure people who look after relatives, friends or neighbours are identified earlier and treated as partners in decisions about the care of their loved ones.

A draft National Strategy for Unpaid Carers has been developed with input from hundreds of carers and representative groups across Wales. It sets out eight key priorities, including better recognition of carers’ roles, improved access to respite and short breaks, stronger wellbeing support, and measures to prevent young carers from carrying too much responsibility.

Under the proposals, carers of all ages and backgrounds — including disabled carers and those in minority communities — would be able to access clear, local information and help when they need it.

Officials say earlier identification is critical, so carers can receive advice, financial guidance and emotional support from the start of their caring journey, rather than only at crisis point.

The strategy also stresses the need for sufficient alternative care arrangements to allow carers time to rest and protect their own health.

Dawn Bowden, Minister for Children and Social Care, said many carers do not even see themselves as carers.

“Too often, unpaid carers go unrecognised – even by themselves. They’re simply ‘looking after mum’ or ‘helping out a friend’, but caring can have a profound impact on people’s finances, careers, health and wellbeing,” she said.

“We want Wales to be a place where carers are identified early, where they know their rights, and where they’re treated as partners for the person they care for.

“This consultation is important in shaping a strategy which takes into full account how carers feel and how they’re supported. I’d encourage everyone with an interest to provide their views.”

The consultation is open now and runs until April 13, with responses helping to shape the final strategy and future support services across Wales.

People can take part online via the Welsh Government website.