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.

Families invited to reflect, remember and find comfort at Hywel Dda event

THE ANNUAL Hywel Dda Loved and Lost Baby Remembrance Service will take place in Carmarthen on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Organised by staff at Hywel Dda University Health Board and led by its Spiritual Care (Chaplaincy) team, the service has long offered comfort to bereaved parents and families, providing a space to reflect and come together in remembrance.

The service will be held at Bethel Chapel, Hill House, Picton Terrace, Carmarthen (SA31 3BT) at 12:00pm. The chapel is located behind the Welsh Government offices and the Army Reserve Centre, with ample parking available nearby.

Euryl Howells, Senior Chaplain at the health board, said the service recognises the many forms loss can take.

He said: “We know that the journey of grief can be slow and painful, and that the experience of loss can be wide — from early miscarriage to the death of a baby or a child.

“Our remembrance service is for anyone who has experienced loss, no matter when it happened or where you were living at the time.

“We offer a space for quiet reflection, as well as the chance to come together with others who have experienced similar loss. Being surrounded by support and love can provide comfort at a difficult time.”

This year’s service will include readings, poems and reflective music, including performances by a staff choir, alongside quotations from Winnie the Pooh.

Parents are invited to bring a photograph, a named item, or a keepsake such as a blanket or toy to place on a memory table during the service.

Refreshments will be provided thanks to the support of Pastor Tim and members of Bethel Church.

POLICE are appealing for information to trace a man wanted in connection with a Class A drugs investigation in Llanelli.

Dyfed-Powys Police has issued a public appeal to locate Jake Ware, aged 25, who is originally from Liverpool but is known to have links in the west Wales area.

The appeal follows the execution of a warrant in Llanelli on Tuesday (Dec 17, 2025), as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected Class A drug offences.

Officers are urging members of the public to come forward if they have seen Ware or have any information that could assist in locating him.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101, quoting reference: 25001029597.

Members of the public can also report information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.