News
Wales records 2,000 child grooming crimes amid online safety bill debate
TODAY (Aug 15), NSPCC Cymru unveiled alarming figures showing almost 2,000 online grooming crimes against children in Wales over the past six years, a period during which online safety laws have been under discussion.
Research data from all major police forces in Wales pinpoints 1,753 offences of Sexual Communication with a Child since its inception in 2017/18.
Nationally, police recorded over 34,000 such offences, with a staggering 5,500 involving primary school children. This means under-12s account for a quarter of the identified victims.
Ahead of the final decisions on the Online Safety Bill, NSPCC’s analysis underscores the grave reality of child abuse on social media. Notably:
- 83% of grooming cases over the past six years targeted girls.
- Snapchat was implicated in 26% of these incidents, while Meta-owned platforms were involved in 47%.
Sophia*, a victim of online grooming at 15, shared her traumatic experience. He coerced her, using her photos as leverage, and instilled fear by threatening to expose her to family and friends.
The Online Safety Bill, drafted two years ago, was first mooted in 2018 after NSPCC’s clarion call. The legislation proposes a legal duty of care by tech companies to young users, obliging them to assess and mitigate child abuse risks. It also empowers Ofcom, the regulator, to address abuse in private messaging, ensuring safeguards even in encrypted settings.

Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC Chief Executive, said the research underscores the urgency for the Online Safety Bill. Cecile Gwilym, of NSPCC Cymru, echoed similar sentiments, urging the Welsh Government to collaborate closely with Westminster for child safety.
The NSPCC’s proactive involvement has also led to the incorporation of key provisions in the bill:
- Holding tech bosses criminally responsible for significant child endangerment.
- Introducing guidance on tackling Violence Against Women and Girls.
- Ensuring tech firms address grooming pathways across different platforms.
However, the NSPCC wants the bill to regulate AI and immersive technology. They are also advocating for a dedicated online child safety entity to pre-emptively address emerging risks.
As the Online Safety Bill’s fate hangs in the balance, the NSPCC is mobilizing support, urging campaigners to press MPs for its robust implementation.
*Name altered for confidentiality.
Crime
Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay
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
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
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
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