Broadcaster promises debates, youth-focused content and full results coverage across Wales

BBC CYMRU WALES has unveiled its plans for comprehensive coverage of the 2026 Senedd election, with a strong focus on accessibility, youth engagement and on-the-ground reporting.

The broadcaster says its election output—available in both English and Welsh—will include live debates, breaking news, in-depth interviews, analysis and expert commentary across television, radio, online and social platforms ahead of polling day on Thursday (May 7).

Special attention will be given to first-time voters aged sixteen and seventeen, as well as explaining the new electoral system. Content aimed at younger audiences will feature prominently, including short-form videos, “minute manifestos,” rapid-fire leader Q&As, and fact-checking reels shared across BBC Wales’ social channels.

Delyth Isaac, Head of News and Current Affairs at BBC Wales, said: “Welsh voters are our number one priority in this election. Our job in the run-up to polling day is to ensure they have all the information they need to make their choice.

“Our teams are getting out into communities across Wales, listening to voters, reporting on local issues and holding politicians to account. We will create spaces for open debate and ensure all voices are heard.”

Debates across Wales

A series of live debates and Q&A programmes will take place across the country in the weeks leading up to the election.

On Tuesday (Mar 17), Nick Servini hosted a Your Voice Live debate in Wrexham, featuring representatives from Welsh Labour, Welsh Conservatives, Plaid Cymru, Welsh Liberal Democrats, Reform UK and the Wales Green Party.

Further programmes include two Your Voice Live: Ask the Leader events. One will be broadcast from Haverfordwest on Wednesday (Apr 8) at 8:00pm on BBC One Wales, with another from Llandudno on Wednesday (Apr 15) at the same time. Both will also air on BBC Radio Wales and BBC Sounds.

The main leaders’ debate will take place on Tuesday (Apr 28), hosted by Bethan Rhys Roberts in Cardiff and broadcast at 8:00pm on BBC One Wales.

Digital, radio and investigation focus

BBC Wales News Online and Cymru Fyw will provide rolling coverage throughout the campaign, including policy analysis, constituency breakdowns, manifesto guides and BBC Verify fact-checking.

The BBC’s investigations team will also examine the spread of disinformation during the campaign, particularly on social media.

On radio, BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru will feature regular election coverage across flagship programmes, alongside special editions of podcasts such as Walescast and Gwleidydda.

Full results coverage planned

BBC Wales reporters will be present at every count across the country when results are declared on Friday (May 8).

Coverage will include live reporting, expert analysis and reaction from candidates, with Political Editor Gareth Lewis playing a central role.

Special results programmes will air on BBC One Wales and S4C, alongside rolling coverage online and on radio. Politics Wales will also broadcast extended programmes during the campaign and a one-hour results special on Sunday (May 10).

Content for younger audiences

BBC Bitesize will produce a bilingual series of explainer videos aimed at 14–16-year-olds, while Newyddion S4C will provide dedicated coverage for younger viewers.

A major Welsh-language debate, Y Ddadl Fawr, will be broadcast live from Carmarthenshire on Thursday (Apr 23) at 8:00pm across S4C, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Sounds.

The BBC said its aim is to ensure every voter in Wales understands how to take part and how their vote counts as the country heads towards a crucial election.

Saundersfoot celebration to feature choirs, raffle and charity fundraising evening

SAUNDERSFOOT Rotary Club is set to celebrate its golden jubilee with a special community concert later this month, marking 50 years of service to the local area.

The event will take place on Thursday (Mar 26) at The Regency Hall, Saundersfoot, running from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, and will feature performances from Tenby Male Choir and Côr y Môr.

Founded in 1976 by a group of like-minded individuals committed to the Rotary principle of “Service above self,” the club has spent five decades supporting a wide range of charitable causes and community initiatives.

Over the years, members have raised around £500,000 through events such as the popular Saundersfoot Duck Race and annual hog roasts. In addition to fundraising, volunteers have contributed thousands of hours supporting projects across the community.

These include work with the Tenderfoot Disabled Sports Club, organising interschool competitions to promote writing, environmental awareness and the arts, assisting the Saundersfoot Wombles with beach cleans, and planting purple crocuses throughout the village to raise awareness of the global fight against polio.

The anniversary concert will also include a raffle, a silent auction featuring a painting of Saundersfoot titled The Beach Front donated by local artist Andrew Phillips, and a display showcasing the history of the Rotary Club.

Tickets are priced at £10 for adults, with free entry for under 16s. The price includes a hot drink and a Welsh cake. Tickets are available in advance from The Regency Hall and The Shoe Box in Saundersfoot, or can be purchased on the door.

Funds raised during the evening will go towards future Rotary activities, including replacing essential equipment and purchasing first aid kits, helping ensure the club can continue its work in the community for years to come.

Port of Milford Haven chief to give quarterly update as venue decision looms

MILFORD HAVEN Town Council will hold its next full council meeting on Monday (Mar 23) at 6:00pm at the Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets Unit in Havens Head Business Park.

The meeting, chaired by Mayor Councillor W. Elliott, will include a quarterly update from Mr T. Sawyer, Chief Executive of the Port of Milford Haven, expected to outline developments at the port and its impact on the town.

Members of the public will have an opportunity to raise questions during a ten-minute session early in the meeting.

Venue decision on agenda

Councillors are also set to discuss the future location of town council meetings from March 31, a decision which could shape how residents engage with local democracy going forward.

The agenda includes consideration of minutes from the previous full council meeting held on Monday (Mar 9), along with reports and recommendations from the Public Events Sub-Committee.

Funding applications to be considered

Under financial matters, councillors will review applications for financial assistance, including requests from Pembrokeshire Vikings and the Paul Sartori Foundation.

The council will also consider its February accounts and a bank reconciliation dated March 2.

Community and civic updates

Routine items such as mayoral engagements, councillor activity reports, and updates from representatives on outside bodies will also be discussed.

The location of official town council church services is listed for consideration.

Private session likely

An item relating to HR matters may be discussed in private, with the public excluded if councillors vote to do so under the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960.

Remote access to the meeting is available upon request in line with current legislation.