News

Llanelli split as asylum seekers take shelter in Stradey Park Hotel

Published

3 years ago

August 24, 2023

WITH echoes of Pembrokeshire’s Penally Camp saga, the controversial government decision to house asylum seekers has sparked tensions in a tranquil Welsh town, leading to an outpouring of both compassion and confrontation.

Previously heralded as a beacon of Welsh culture, Llanelli finds itself at the crossroads of a national debate. Many regard the Stradey Park Hotel as “the jewel in Llanelli’s crown,” a stunning cream-coloured Edwardian mansion with magnificent views of the Gower coastline. Yet, its transformation to accommodate approximately 250 asylum seekers, overseen by the Home Secretary Suella Braverman, has led to uproar.

The Home Office’s choice to use the Stradey Park Hotel stems from a backlog of asylum requests. This has made the Home Secretary, perhaps surprisingly, one of the largest hotel proprietors in the UK. But the commercial side of this venture has not gone unnoticed. The Stradey Park Hotel, acquired by Sterling Woodrow in 2020, has made considerable profits by partnering with Clearsprings Ready Homes, one of three firms that provide accommodation for the Home Office’s asylum seekers.

However, beneath this tapestry of politics and commerce lies the heart of Llanelli, and it is pulsating with mixed emotions. The initial wave of opposition came in the form of court cases and formal letters. But things took a turn between 14 and 16 August, when significant damage was inflicted upon the hotel and its surrounding property.

Following these events, 17 individuals have been arrested in relation to the protest. Most of the arrests were a result of the concerning behaviour displayed by some protestors, causing substantial damage to the hotel grounds and property. Superintendent Ross Evans, Commander for Carmarthenshire, weighed in on the matter, affirming the force’s dedication to preserving public safety whilst recognising the concerns of the protestors.

“Public safety remains our priority and we will continue to listen to and work with all parties. In particular, it is our intention to work with any protest groups in advance of any events so that we can facilitate peaceful demonstration,” Superintendent Evans remarked.

Of the 21 arrests made since July, most of those apprehended are now bound by bail conditions restricting them from entering the vicinity of the hotel or even Llanelli. Notably, on 18 August, Emmanuel Agius was found guilty of possessing offensive weapons and a class B drug. He received a 16-week suspended sentence and a curfew requirement.

The situation in Llanelli serves as a testament to how national policies can ripple into the heart of local communities. The town, once bustling with the anthracite coal, tin, and steel industries, now finds itself grappling with new challenges, echoing larger discussions surrounding migration and identity.

But amid the commotion and contention, Llanelli’s true strength may lie in its ability to navigate these tumultuous waters, hopefully finding a path that not only respects its heritage but also upholds the principles of compassion and unity.

Crime

Man in critical condition after serious assault in New Quay

Published

3 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

5 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

6 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