News

Two simple steps to help keep summer bugs away

Published

2 months ago

May 20, 2026

HOUSEHOLDERS in Wales are being urged to take action now to reduce the risk of wasp and mosquito problems later in the summer.

Experts at the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) say two simple spring checks could help prevent gardens, sheds and homes becoming a breeding ground for pests.

Residents are being advised to look under eaves, inside sheds and garages, and around sheltered spots in the garden for early wasp nests. At this time of year, nests are often small — around the size of a golf ball — and can be dealt with before they become established.

People are also being urged to empty water butts, watering cans, buckets and any containers where rainwater may have collected over winter. Cleaning them out can help remove overwintering mosquito eggs.

Niall Gallagher, Technical Manager at BPCA, said: “These two simple steps in spring can make a real difference in the summer.

“Deterring wasps and mosquitoes from settling down and breeding in your garden means you’re much less likely to have problems with them later in the summer.

“You can’t keep them out, but a few visitors are much less hassle than thousands of insects that have moved in for the season.”

Wasps play an important role as pollinators and natural pest controllers, feeding on aphids and other insects. Where a nest is in a low-traffic area, BPCA says it may be best to leave it alone.

However, nests left to develop through spring and summer can contain between 5,000 and 8,000 adult wasps by late August. If one wasp senses a threat, it can release a pheromone which alerts the rest of the nest and may trigger a mass stinging response.

Removing an early-stage nest will not stop a queen wasp from building elsewhere, but it can encourage her to choose a site away from sitting areas, homes and places where children play.

Mr Gallagher added: “At this time of year, bumblebees, bees, wasps and hornets are all likely to become active again after the winter.

“All of these insects build nests that can look very similar, but each requires different methods to deal with any issues — particularly as a quarter of all bee species are endangered, so it really is important to ensure correct identification if a nest is found somewhere it shouldn’t be.

“If there is any doubt at all, we highly recommend getting in touch with a BPCA member for advice.”

Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water, including ponds, ditches, marshes, water butts, buckets and watering cans. Emptying stagnant water and cleaning containers can reduce the number of mosquitoes emerging as temperatures rise.

Mr Gallagher said most native UK mosquitoes pose little risk beyond itchy or swollen bites, although some people may suffer an allergic reaction requiring medical attention.

He added that climate change could increase the risk of non-native mosquito species becoming established in the UK.

Eggs from the Egyptian mosquito were detected for the first time in the UK at Heathrow Airport in September 2023, while Asian tiger mosquito eggs were found at a service station on the M20 in Kent in August 2024.

Anyone experiencing problems with wasps, mosquitoes or other insects around their property can contact a BPCA member business for advice.

BPCA member businesses are endorsed through the Government’s TrustMark quality scheme and must carry appropriate insurance. Technicians are trained, qualified, assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636, and follow BPCA Codes of Best Practice.

For more information, visit bpca.org.uk/find.

Crime

Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay

Published

14 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

16 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

16 hours ago

July 4, 2026

Tom Sinclair

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