News

Conservative MS James Evans loses whip amid Reform defection talks

Published

3 months ago

January 20, 2026

Tories accused of “chasing Reform” as Lib Dems demand by-election if he jumps ship

A SENEDD member for Brecon and Radnorshire has been stripped of the Conservative whip after his party said he continued to explore talks with Reform UK figures about the possibility of defecting.

James Evans MS was removed from the Welsh Conservative group’s front bench and now sits as an independent in the Senedd while he considers his political future.

The decision was taken by Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar MS, who said the move followed a breakdown in trust after Mr Evans was asked about reports linking him to Reform. Senior figures said assurances were given that the matter had been closed, but that further contact continued.

Mr Evans has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing and the issue is a political one: whether a sitting MS can keep their party position while holding discussions about leaving.

In a statement following the decision, Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds MS said the episode exposed “the complete mess the Conservatives have created by chasing Reform instead of focusing on the people of Wales”.

She claimed Reform was “fast becoming a retirement home for Conservatives worried about losing their seats” and criticised what she described as politicians “jumping ship” based on whether it improves their chances of holding on to power.

Ms Dodds added that if Mr Evans chooses to defect, he should “have the courage to face the electorate in a by-election and seek a fresh mandate from the people of Brecon and Radnorshire”.

Under Senedd rules, the removal of the whip does not automatically trigger a by-election. An MS can sit as an independent or join another group without vacating their seat, unless they resign or are disqualified.

The row lands as parties brace for the Senedd election in May, with Reform attempting to build its presence in Wales and the Conservatives under pressure in polls.

Mr Evans has previously held a prominent role within the Welsh Conservative group. In response to the whip being withdrawn, he has indicated he will continue working for constituents and has voiced concerns about the direction of the wider Conservative Party. It is not yet clear whether he will remain independent, seek to rejoin the Conservative group, or align himself with another party.

The Herald understands discussions and speculation about possible defections have been swirling around several political figures across the UK in recent months as parties reposition ahead of the next round of elections, with Reform targeting disaffected Conservatives in particular.

No timetable has been set for any decision by Mr Evans, but party opponents have seized on the incident as further evidence of instability at a time when public services and living costs remain at the top of many voters’ concerns.

Community

RNLI lifeguards attend Freshwater West memorial service

Published

11 minutes ago

April 29, 2026

Tom Sinclair

RNLI senior lifeguards Harry and Nia represented the charity at the annual Landing Craft Memorial Service at Freshwater West on Saturday (Apr 25).

The service is held each year to remember those connected with the wartime landing craft exercises and the area’s military history.

Freshwater West is one of 16 beaches across Pembrokeshire covered by RNLI lifeguards during the summer season.

The charity is reminding beachgoers to choose a lifeguarded beach whenever possible, swim between the red and yellow flags, and call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see someone in difficulty in the water.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the RNLI Lifeguard Service.

Education

College learner receives prestigious Welsh award

Published

14 minutes ago

April 29, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A PEMBROKESHIRE College learner has been recognised with a prestigious award celebrating her commitment, achievement and future potential.

Eleanor Edwards, a second-year Travel and Tourism learner, received the award from the Worshipful Livery Company of Wales as part of its annual College Awards programme.

The scheme supports young Welsh talent and recognises individuals undertaking academic and vocational studies, as well as members of the armed forces and those involved in community service.

Support for future career

The award will help Eleanor further develop her skills and broaden her learning experience through additional courses made possible by the funding.

The College said Eleanor’s success reflects both her hard work and ambition, as well as the high standard of vocational learning delivered at Pembrokeshire College.

Speaking on behalf of the Worshipful Livery Company of Wales, Sylvia Robert-Sargeant said: “We are delighted to have been involved in the selection of Eleanor Edwards as an outstanding second-year learner studying for a Diploma in Travel and Tourism at the College.

“We wish Eleanor every success, both in participating in the extra courses made possible by this award and in her future studies and career.”

Ambition to join cabin crew

Pembrokeshire College Principal Dr Barry Walters also congratulated Eleanor on her achievement.

Dr Walters said: “We are delighted to congratulate Eleanor on receiving a Worshipful Livery Company of Wales award.

“This achievement will support her continued progression, enabling her to gain the additional qualifications needed to pursue her ambition of a career in air cabin crew.

“We also extend our sincere thanks to the Worshipful Livery Company of Wales for their ongoing support and for the time invested in the selection process.”

The College said it was proud to see Eleanor acknowledged through the respected awards programme and wished her every success as she continues her studies and prepares for a future career in the travel and tourism industry.

Picture: Learner Eleanor Edwards with Sylvia Robert-Sargeant and Pembrokeshire College Principal Dr Barry Walters.

News

Wildfires continue near Claerwen Dam as public told to avoid Elan Valley area

Published

21 minutes ago

April 29, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Fire crews have been dealing with several wildfires in and around the Elan Valley since Sunday

FIREFIGHTERS are continuing to tackle wildfires near Claerwen Dam after a series of fires broke out in and around the Elan Valley area.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said crews have been responding to several incidents since Sunday (Apr 26), with firefighting operations still ongoing near the dam.

Members of the public are being urged to avoid the area while emergency services remain at the scene.

The fire service said keeping roads and access routes clear is vital to allow fire appliances and other emergency vehicles to reach the affected areas safely.

Local residents have also been advised to keep windows and doors closed if there is thick smoke nearby.

The cause of the fires has not been confirmed.

Emergency crews remain in attendance and further updates are expected as the incident develops.

Cover image:

Big blaze: Fire crews at the scene (Pic: Rhayader Fire Station)