The warning comes after traffic management was temporarily suspended on Monday evening following an incident in which workers were subjected to abuse and harassment from a member of the public.

UK Highways A55 Ltd, which operates and maintains the bridge on behalf of the Welsh Government, said the welfare of its staff had been placed at risk, forcing the company to withdraw workers until it was safe for them to return. Traffic management resumed the following day.

The company said hostility towards staff had become an increasingly common feature of the bridge's ongoing Phase Two maintenance programme and warned that any further incidents would be reported to North Wales Police.

A spokesperson said the safety of workers and subcontractors would always remain the highest priority.

The latest incident comes as frustration continues to grow over restrictions on the nearly 200-year-old suspension bridge, which links Anglesey with Gwynedd and carries thousands of vehicles every day.

A 7.5-tonne weight limit remains in force after engineers discovered defects in the bridge's suspension hangers – the critical components that support the suspension chains and roadway. Repair work is expected to continue until 2027.

As part of the safety measures, heavy goods vehicles over the weight limit must use the nearby Britannia Bridge instead, while traffic on the Menai Bridge is controlled by temporary signals and staff who monitor larger vehicles before allowing them to cross.

Highway officials say those checks are essential because any overweight vehicle crossing the bridge requires an immediate precautionary inspection to ensure no structural damage has occurred.

Earlier this week, one driver claimed their vehicle weighed 6.8 tonnes and was therefore within the legal limit. However, investigations by the Traffic Wales Control Room later established the vehicle actually weighed around 15 tonnes – more than double the permitted maximum.

Traffic Wales reminded drivers that the restriction is in place for public safety and warned that ignoring it is a criminal offence. The agency also urged motorists to show respect to workers carrying out the checks, adding that abusive behaviour towards staff would not be tolerated.

UK Highways A55 Ltd also responded to criticism circulating on social media after footage of Monday's incident was shared online. The company said workers seen using mobile phones were not distracted from their duties but were using specialist systems to verify vehicle weights and check information needed to keep the bridge safe.

The latest problems are another chapter in what has been a turbulent few years for one of North Wales' most important transport links.

Designed by renowned Scottish engineer Thomas Telford and opened in 1826, the Menai Suspension Bridge was the world's first major suspension bridge and remains one of Wales' most iconic pieces of engineering.

However, its bicentenary year has been overshadowed by continuing structural concerns.

In October 2022, the bridge was closed without warning after serious issues were discovered with its hangers, severing one of only two road connections between Anglesey and the mainland. The closure caused months of disruption for residents, commuters, businesses and emergency services, with traffic diverted onto the already congested Britannia Bridge.

Although the bridge eventually reopened to most traffic under strict weight restrictions, engineers have continued to identify further repairs requiring lengthy maintenance work. Local businesses have repeatedly voiced concerns about the impact on tourism and trade, while residents have endured congestion, longer journey times and uncertainty over future restrictions.

Officials say the current programme of inspections and repairs is essential to preserve the Grade I listed structure for future generations.

But they have warned that maintaining safe access depends on motorists obeying the restrictions and treating frontline workers with respect.

They added that any further abuse placing workers at risk could leave them with no option but to suspend operations again, potentially forcing another closure of the bridge until it is safe to resume.

North Wales Police say they are working closely with the local authority following reports of issues including street drinking and dog fouling. As part of the response, officers are seeking to introduce Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) against persistent offenders and a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to help address problem behaviour in key areas.

Neighbourhood patrols have also been increased in and around Llangefni to provide reassurance and deter further incidents.

However, officers say that despite concerns being widely discussed on social media, many incidents are not being reported directly to the police or the council, making it harder to take enforcement action.

Sergeant Matt Bentley said: "We're aware of concerns being raised on local social media pages regarding anti-social behaviour in and around Llangefni.

"We want everyone to feel safe to live, work and visit the area and are working closely with partners to respond to these concerns.

"Unfortunately, we are not receiving reports of these incidents when they are happening. Without this information from the public, it is difficult to act against those causing issues in the local area.

"I would encourage members of the public to report all incidents, even minor, of anti-social behaviour to the council or police, so we have a true reflection of the problems and evidence to apply for protection orders."

A Criminal Behaviour Order is a court order designed to prevent individuals who have engaged in persistent anti-social or criminal behaviour from continuing to cause problems in their communities. A Public Space Protection Order gives local authorities additional powers to tackle activities that have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of people in a public area.

North Wales Police are asking anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour in Llangefni to report it directly, either to Anglesey County Council through its website or to the police online or by calling 101. Officers say timely reports are vital in building evidence, identifying repeat offenders and helping to make the town a safer place for residents, businesses and visitors.

North Wales Police have confirmed that the body of Simon Wilson was discovered in the sea near Llwyngwril, Gwynedd, on Tuesday evening.

Officers were called at around 7.20pm on Tuesday, July 29, following reports that a body had been found in the sea near Llwyngwril. The man was later formally identified as Simon Wilson, one of the two men reported missing from Pwllheli last week. His family has been informed, along with HM Coroner.

The tragic discovery comes just two days after the body of Connor Parfitt was found on a beach in Aberystwyth at around 12.30pm on Sunday, July 26.

Mr Wilson and Mr Parfitt had been missing since last Tuesday evening after they were last seen close to the beach near Hafan y Môr Holiday Park in Pwllheli. The pair had been heading towards the coast with inflatable kayaks, prompting a major multi-agency search involving North Wales Police, HM Coastguard, RNLI crews and other emergency services.

Confirming the latest development, a North Wales Police spokesperson said: "Officers were called at around 7.20pm yesterday, 29 July, to reports of a body being found in the sea near to Llwyngwril, Gwynedd.

"The man has now been identified as Simon Wilson, one of the men who we circulated as missing from Pwllheli last week.

"Simon’s family and the coroner have been informed."

Chief Inspector Stephen Pawson said: "I share my deepest condolences with Simon's family at this incredibly difficult time.

"This is not the outcome any of us had hoped for, including the teams involved in the searches.

"Thank you to partner agencies, volunteers and members of the public who assisted in our searches.

"We would request that both Simon and Connor's families' privacy are respected."

The search for the two men prompted an extensive operation along the North Wales coastline after they failed to return from their trip. Rescue teams searched both land and sea, while officers appealed for information from the public and carried out precautionary shoreline inspections at several locations along the coast in the days following their disappearance.

On Monday, police confirmed that the body recovered from a beach in Aberystwyth had been formally identified as Connor Parfitt after it was discovered at around 12.30pm on Sunday.

The deaths have shocked communities across North Wales and beyond, with tributes expected to be paid to both men in the coming days.

North Wales Police have not released any further details regarding the circumstances of the incident. The deaths are not being treated as suspicious, and reports will now be prepared for HM Coroner, who will determine the causes of death.

Mary, who is described as Asian, around 5ft 4ins tall, with very long grey hair, remains missing and officers are asking members of the public to come forward if they have seen her.

She is known to frequent the Ecclesall Road area of Sheffield, including local cafes and churches. Police have also confirmed that Mary has links to the Llandudno area.

Officers say the new image has been released to help improve recognition and assist with the ongoing search.

Anyone who has seen Mary, or has information that could help locate her, is asked to contact police.

Members of the public can call 101, quoting incident number 247 of 24 July 2026.

Information can also be shared online via the South Yorkshire Police website.

The two organisations are working together to apply for a new Dee Estuary Cockle Fishery Regulating Order, which will replace the current Order introduced in 2008.

The existing Regulating Order has played an important role in transforming the Dee Estuary into one of the most sustainably managed cockle fisheries in the UK. The proposed replacement aims to build on that success by ensuring the fishery remains sustainable, well managed and resilient for future generations.

The new Order would continue to support cockle gatherers, local communities and the natural environment by providing a clear legal and operational framework for sustainable harvesting, habitat protection and fair access to the fishery.

The current Regulating Order is due to expire in June 2028. NRW and NWIFCA say that without a replacement there is an increased risk of overharvesting, damage to important habitats and the loss of the environmental, social and economic benefits linked to the fishery.

A series of stakeholder engagement sessions will take place during August, giving members of the public, businesses and organisations the opportunity to learn more about the proposals and share their views with the project team.

The sessions will be held at:

Thursday 6 August – Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria
The Old Police Room (Room 4), Victoria Hall, Main Street, Grange-over-Sands, LA11 6DP

Wednesday 12 August – Greenfield, Flintshire
Victorian Schoolroom, Greenfield Valley Heritage Park, Greenfield Road, Greenfield, Holywell, CH8 7GH

Wednesday 19 August – Wallasey, Merseyside
Wallasey Beach CIC, Coastal Drive, Wallasey, CH45 3PZ

Wednesday 26 August – Llanelli, Carmarthenshire
Furnace Hall, Furnace Community Hall, 51 Stradey Road, Llanelli, SA15 4ET

Stuart Thomas, Team Leader for Marine Sustainable Management at NRW, said the Dee Estuary cockle fishery is recognised as one of the best-managed fisheries of its kind in the UK.

He said: “We encourage anyone with an interest in the fishery to take part in these engagement sessions and help shape proposals that will support its long-term sustainability and benefits for both people and nature.”

Mark Taylor, Chief Executive Officer at NWIFCA, said feedback from stakeholders would help shape effective and sustainable management of the fishery under the proposed new Regulating Order.

He said: “North Western IFCA encourages everyone with an interest in the Dee Estuary cockle fishery to come along to one of these events and share their views. Your feedback will help NWIFCA and NRW develop effective, sustainable management of the fishery under the proposed new Regulating Order.”

Anyone wishing to attend one of the engagement sessions is asked to book a slot in advance by contacting the NWIFCA office on 01524 727970 or by emailing office@nw-ifca.gov.uk.

The sessions are available by pre-booked appointment only, with 45-minute slots available on the hour from 10am.

While face-to-face sessions are encouraged where possible, feedback can also be submitted by email to deecockleregulatingorder@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk.

Further information about the Dee Estuary Cockle Fishery Regulating Order is available from Natural Resources Wales and the North Western Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority.

As part of a national initiative, Amazon has donated 30 emergency grab bags containing everyday essentials for adults and children escaping abusive situations.

The bags, which will be available at police stations across North Wales, include toiletries, a mobile phone, writing materials and comfort items to provide immediate practical support and a sense of dignity for people who have been forced to leave their homes with little or no belongings.

The initiative forms part of North Wales Police's ongoing commitment to safeguarding victims of domestic abuse and ensuring they receive the right support at the earliest opportunity.

Detective Sergeant Sally White said the donation would make a real difference to those facing crisis situations.

"We are incredibly grateful to Amazon for their generosity. This donation will help us provide practical support to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities at a time when they need it most.

"This will assist officers to provide an excellent service to victims of domestic abuse in line with our force priorities.

"The grab bags offer more than essential supplies – they send a powerful message that survivors are seen, valued, and not alone.

"Leaving an abusive relationship can be one of the most frightening and difficult decisions a person will ever make. Victims often leave with nothing more than the clothes they're wearing, so having immediate access to essentials can make a significant difference during those first critical hours.

"Our message to anyone experiencing domestic abuse is clear: you are not alone. Please reach out to the police, and we will work closely with trusted safeguarding partners to ensure you receive the protection and care you deserve."

An Amazon spokesperson said the company was proud to continue supporting the initiative.

"We are proud to support North Wales Police in their efforts to protect and safeguard victims of domestic abuse. We hope these grab bags provide some comfort and practical assistance to those facing incredibly difficult circumstances."

Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or background and can include physical violence, coercive or controlling behaviour, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and financial abuse. Victims often leave dangerous situations at very short notice, making access to basic necessities an important part of their immediate recovery.

North Wales Police works closely with specialist domestic abuse services, local authorities and safeguarding organisations to protect victims, assess risk and bring offenders to justice. Initiatives such as the emergency grab bags complement that support by providing practical assistance while longer-term safeguarding arrangements are put in place.

The force is encouraging anyone experiencing domestic abuse to seek help. Anyone in immediate danger should always call 999. If speaking would place them at greater risk, they can use the Silent Solution by dialling 999 and pressing 55when prompted.

For non-emergency advice or to report domestic abuse, people can contact North Wales Police on 101 or via the force's website. Confidential support is also available 24 hours a day through the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.

North Wales Police said it remains committed to working with partner organisations to protect victims, support survivors and ensure that anyone experiencing domestic abuse knows that help is available.

Andy Green, who works for the NHS in Wales, is sharing his experience as health professionals encourage more people to come forward for testing, warning that untreated hepatitis C can lead to serious liver disease and liver cancer.

Andy was diagnosed with hepatitis C while living in the United States during the 1990s after seeking medical advice for extreme fatigue. Although he still does not know how he contracted the virus, he says the response from his doctor immediately put him at ease.

"My diagnosis was a shock and I don't know how I got it. But the doctor wasn't interested in how I acquired it and so immediately I felt there was no stigma and we just focused on treating the illness," he said.

After later moving to Wales following his marriage to a Welsh woman, Andy was able to receive treatment through the Blood Borne Virus Team in South Wales.

The treatment consisted of a short course of daily tablets, which successfully cleared the virus with virtually no side effects.

"It was just a few weeks of taking a daily tablet. I had no side effects, and then all of a sudden, the virus was completely gone.

"It was like having my life back – a huge weight off my shoulders. I'd always had a fear in the back of my mind that my daughter could pick it up from me by accident, and that fear has completely gone now."

Health experts say Andy's experience reflects the advances made in treating hepatitis C, with highly effective medicines now able to cure the vast majority of infections quickly and safely.

Several hundred people receive treatment for hepatitis C in Wales every year. However, because many people experience few symptoms, or only vague symptoms such as tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach pain or jaundice, the infection is often described as a "silent" disease and can remain undiagnosed for many years.

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus. In the UK, transmission can occur through sharing equipment used to inject or smoke drugs, including needles and crack pipes, or through unprotected sex with someone who has hepatitis C. There is also a risk associated with tattoos, piercings, Botox or cosmetic filler procedures carried out at unlicensed or unregulated premises, as well as some medical or dental treatment undertaken overseas where hygiene standards may differ from those in the UK.

If left untreated, chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious complications including cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.

Dr Daniel Thomas, Consultant Epidemiologist at Public Health Wales, said early diagnosis was key.

"Hepatitis C is a silent disease that can cause long-term illness, but with a simple blood test and effective medicines it is easy to diagnose and very easy to treat. Anyone with any risk should definitely get tested through the Public Health Wales Test and Post service. Get tested. Get treated. Get cured."

Testing is available through a number of routes, including the free and confidential Public Health Wales Test and Post service, with officials encouraging anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the virus to come forward.

Andy hopes sharing his own story will encourage others not to delay seeking help.

"I would advise anyone with concerns to get tested. The treatment is really easy to manage, and the cure has given me a new-found freedom."

Public Health Wales says increasing awareness and encouraging testing among people who may have been exposed to hepatitis C is an important part of efforts to eliminate the virus as a public health threat in Wales, ensuring more people receive life-changing treatment before serious liver damage develops.

A new report, The Case for a Third Menai Crossing, presented to the council's Executive, concludes that a new crossing is now the only long-term solution to improve resilience between Anglesey and the mainland.

The report argues that the two existing bridges across the Menai Strait – the historic Menai Suspension Bridge, opened in 1826, and the Britannia Bridge, first built in 1850 before being rebuilt following a fire in 1970 – are no longer able to meet the demands of modern traffic.

Council leaders say repeated closures of either bridge are causing widespread disruption, affecting commuters, emergency services, businesses, tourism and freight movements, while undermining confidence in one of North Wales' most strategically important transport corridors.

The report warns that failure to improve the crossing risks holding back major economic opportunities, including the Anglesey Freeport, the proposed Gwyddelwern Power Station development, and the long-term future of the Port of Holyhead, one of the UK's busiest gateways for trade with Ireland and the wider European Union.

Chief Executive Dylan J Williams said the lack of resilience had become impossible to ignore.

"The disruption caused by the increasing number of closures to the bridges is impacting our daily lives. They have now become a regular occurrence, as we witnessed during the week of the National Urdd Eisteddfod in May, one of the biggest events in the Welsh calendar, and again earlier this month.

"Anglesey is at a turning point, but our potential is being constrained by a transport network that simply isn't fit for the 21st century. We cannot continue to rely on ageing infrastructure that fails our residents, businesses and visitors. A third crossing is essential – and it must be delivered with urgency."

Council leader Councillor Gary Pritchard described the issue as one of fairness as well as economic necessity.

"This is about fairness, opportunity and the future of our communities. For too long, Ynys Môn has had to rely on infrastructure that simply cannot meet modern demands. Every closure affects our residents' daily lives, their ability to get to work, access healthcare, attend school and run businesses.

"Without decisive action, we face a real risk of continued economic decline and missed opportunities – particularly at a time when investment through several major economic projects and our wider growth plans could transform the Island.

"A third crossing is not a luxury; it is essential infrastructure."

The report will now be submitted to the Secretary of State for Wales, Stephen Kinnock, together with the Welsh Government's Cabinet Secretary for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, Adam Price, and Deputy Minister for Transport, Mark Hooper. Anglesey County Council is also seeking urgent meetings with both governments to discuss funding and the next steps.

Calls for a third crossing are not new.

For years, residents, businesses and transport organisations have argued that relying on just two bridges leaves Anglesey particularly vulnerable whenever either crossing is restricted.

The problem has become increasingly apparent in recent years as the Grade I-listed Menai Suspension Bridge has required major maintenance works. Weight restrictions introduced in 2022 after safety concerns forced lengthy closures and traffic diversions via the Britannia Bridge, leading to severe congestion across Anglesey, Bangor and the surrounding road network.

Even routine maintenance, collisions, high winds or police incidents can result in lengthy delays because there is no realistic alternative route between the Island and mainland.

The disruption affects far more than motorists. Ambulances transporting patients to Ysbyty Gwynedd, school transport, freight travelling to and from Holyhead Port, local businesses, tourism operators and emergency services all experience significant delays whenever one bridge becomes unavailable.

During busy holiday periods and major events, queues regularly stretch for several miles, with congestion impacting communities on both sides of the Menai Strait.

Support for a third crossing has grown across much of North Wales.

Plaid Cymru has consistently argued that Anglesey needs a more resilient transport network, particularly as the Island seeks to capitalise on investment opportunities including Freeport status, renewable energy projects and future nuclear development. The party has said reliable transport links are essential for the economy and public services, while also recognising the need for any major infrastructure project to minimise environmental impacts and respect local communities.

Business organisations, including the North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council and freight operators, have also highlighted the importance of improving resilience on one of the region's most important transport corridors.

The Welsh Local Government Association has previously recognised the strategic importance of maintaining reliable connections to Anglesey, while tourism organisations have repeatedly warned that prolonged closures can deter visitors during the busiest times of the year.

However, proposals for a third crossing have also attracted opposition.

Environmental campaigners have questioned whether building another bridge would ultimately encourage higher traffic volumes rather than solving congestion in the long term. Some groups argue investment should instead focus on improving public transport, active travel and rail services, while reducing dependency on private cars.

Concerns have also been raised about the potential impact on the Menai Strait's internationally important marine environment, landscape and protected wildlife habitats. Campaigners have said any new crossing would need to demonstrate clear environmental benefits and avoid unnecessary damage to one of Wales' most sensitive natural areas.

Others have questioned whether investment should instead be directed towards maintaining and upgrading the existing crossings, although supporters argue that this approach does little to address the fundamental lack of resilience when one bridge has to close.

The debate comes at a pivotal time for Anglesey.

Supporters believe the Island is on the verge of significant economic growth through projects including Anglesey Freeport, investment at Holyhead Port and the prospect of new energy developments.

They argue those opportunities depend upon reliable transport links capable of supporting workers, freight and visitors.

With both the UK and Welsh Governments now being asked to consider Anglesey's latest report, the question of whether a third Menai crossing should finally become a reality is once again firmly on the political agenda.

For many on the Island, the issue is no longer simply about reducing traffic congestion. It is about ensuring Anglesey has the resilient infrastructure needed to support its economy, safeguard essential services and secure its long-term future.

Crews remain on the ground at Capelulo near the Sychnant Pass, the Rhinogydd mountain range near Cwm Bychan, Harlech, and on Bangor Mountain to ensure there are no signs of fires reigniting while the risk remains high.

The fire service has reassured the public that these are precautionary re-inspections but is asking people to contact North Wales Fire and Rescue Service only if they see visible flames or if smoke becomes excessive in their area.

With the countryside remaining exceptionally dry, people are also being urged to stay away from the affected areas and to take extra care to reduce the risk of further wildfires.

Firefighters are asking the public not to use disposable barbecues or light open fires, to avoid carrying out controlled burning, to dispose of cigarettes responsibly and to take litter home.

The latest appeal follows a number of significant wildfire incidents across North Wales in recent weeks, including a major blaze in the Rhinogydd mountains that required a multi-agency response involving specialist wildfire teams and aerial support. Fire crews also tackled fires on Bangor Mountain and in the Conwy area as prolonged dry weather created ideal conditions for fires to spread rapidly.

Wildfires can cause widespread damage to wildlife habitats, destroy large areas of countryside and place nearby communities at risk. They also demand significant emergency service resources, with firefighters often spending days in difficult terrain bringing blazes under control.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service has thanked residents and visitors for their continued patience, support and cooperation, saying everyone's efforts to act responsibly during the current dry spell will play an important role in helping to prevent further fires.

Calum Darling has qualified as an Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) Navigator, while Vicki Tann has passed her ILB Tier 2 assessment following a day of operational evaluations on Monday, 27 July.

The assessments were conducted by Coastal Lifeboat Trainer Simon Bunting.

As an ILB Navigator, Calum will play a crucial role during rescue operations, supporting the helm by providing accurate navigational information, maintaining situational awareness, identifying hazards, planning safe routes and helping coordinate search and rescue missions.

To gain the qualification, he successfully completed both theory and practical assessments covering navigation policy and procedures, collision regulations, local knowledge, route planning, search and rescue navigation, electronic navigation systems, search planning and casualty location techniques.

Throughout the assessment, Calum demonstrated sound decision-making, interpreted tidal and environmental conditions, safely planned and executed routes, and confidently supported the helm during realistic operational scenarios.

Meanwhile, Vicki's Tier 2 assessment tested the wide range of practical skills required to take on greater responsibility as an inshore lifeboat crew member.

The assessment included watchkeeping, anchoring, veering, towing, seamanship and command of the helm during a series of practical rescue exercises, including a man overboard scenario.

Building on the foundations of Tier 1 training, the qualification demonstrates a high level of competence, confidence and operational readiness for responding to incidents at sea.

Both the navigator and Tier 2 crew roles are regarded as essential operational positions within the RNLI, ensuring lifeboat crews can operate safely, efficiently and effectively during emergency call-outs.

Llandudno RNLI congratulated both volunteers on their achievements and thanked Simon Bunting for carrying out the assessments.

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea, with volunteer crews providing a 24-hour search and rescue service around the coast of the United Kingdom and Ireland. At Llandudno, volunteers regularly respond to emergencies involving swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers, sailors and people cut off by the tide, as well as assisting HM Coastguard and other emergency services during incidents along the North Wales coastline.

The latest qualifications ensure the station continues to build and maintain the highly trained volunteer crews needed to respond safely and effectively whenever the pager sounds.

Janet Finch-Saunders MS has expressed concern over the latest statistics, which show the number of patient pathways waiting to start treatment in Wales has increased by almost 9,700 to 689,721.

The figures also reveal that more than 97,500 patients have now been waiting more than a year for treatment, while the number waiting over two years has risen to more than 4,200.

Pressure on accident and emergency departments also continues to mount. Across Wales, only 63 per cent of patients attending emergency departments in June were admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours – the worst performance since records began.

The latest data indicates that performance in the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area remains below the Welsh average across several key measures. Waiting times for diagnostic tests, referral-to-treatment waiting lists and first outpatient appointments are all worse than the national average, while cancer treatment waiting times also continue to lag behind Wales as a whole. Performance for therapy waiting times is broadly in line with the Welsh average.

Janet Finch-Saunders, the Member of the Senedd for Bangor, Conwy and Môn, said she continues to hear from constituents facing lengthy waits for treatment.

"Every week, I am contacted by concerned residents about the delays they are facing in receiving treatment, in some cases for life-threatening conditions such as cancer," she said.

"Alongside this, the frequent reports of long A&E waits and corridor care continuing to take place are causing serious concern and placing enormous strain not only on patients and their families, but also on our hardworking doctors and nurses.

"Urgent action must be taken to end corridor care once and for all, and we must declare a health emergency. It is only by recognising the scale of this crisis that we can fully address its causes and deliver real change for our health service."

The latest figures come as NHS Wales continues to face significant demand across hospitals and community services. Health leaders have repeatedly warned that an ageing population, increasing numbers of patients with complex health conditions, workforce shortages and sustained pressure on emergency services continue to affect performance.

The Welsh Government has previously said reducing waiting times remains one of its top priorities and has invested additional funding to increase capacity, expand diagnostic services and improve access to planned care. However, ministers have acknowledged that recovery from the pandemic, combined with ongoing demand, means improvements will take time.

The latest statistics are likely to intensify political debate over the future of NHS services in Wales, with opposition parties continuing to press the Welsh Government to accelerate efforts to reduce waiting lists and improve emergency care, particularly in North Wales where Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board remains under sustained pressure.

The schemes – Help to Buy – Wales, Help to Stay – Wales and the Empty Homes Grant – will now continue until 31 March 2027, providing continued support during what ministers say remains a challenging period for many families facing high housing and living costs.

Under the extension, up to 400 additional households will be able to purchase a new-build home through Help to Buy – Wales. The long-running scheme has helped thousands of buyers, particularly first-time purchasers, by reducing the size of the deposit needed to buy a home.

The Help to Stay – Wales scheme, which provides assistance to homeowners struggling to meet mortgage repayments, will also remain available until the end of the 2026/27 financial year.

The Welsh Government says the programme forms part of its commitment to support families through the continuing cost-of-living pressures and prevent avoidable home repossessions.

Meanwhile, the Empty Homes Grant will continue to fund the renovation of up to 300 empty and neglected properties, helping bring them back into use as modern, energy-efficient family homes while tackling the issue of long-term vacant buildings in communities across Wales.

Together, the three initiatives represent a broad package of housing support, aimed at helping first-time buyers, protecting existing homeowners and increasing the number of homes available without relying solely on new developments.

Cabinet Secretary for Local Government, Housing and Planning, Siân Gwenllian, announced the extensions during a visit to Hollybrook Park in Connah's Quay, where she met residents who purchased their homes through the Help to Buy – Wales scheme.

She said: "This government is committed to the principle that every family deserves a safe and affordable home in which to live. Increasing the supply of social homes is one way of achieving this and we have announced our 20,000 additional homes target.

"We are also offering targeted support for those who own or wish to own their homes – an option that is not affordable or accessible for many as prices continue to grow beyond the reach of local people across many parts of Wales. Today I am announcing the extension of three schemes that support people that are buying their first home, helping families from losing their home and helping to renovate empty properties into homes.

"The cost-of-living crisis has hit hard, and these extensions are about helping families and young people to buy and to keep their homes through challenging times.

"I am hugely grateful to our partners – the homebuilders, local authorities, mortgage lenders, and the Development Bank of Wales – whose commitment makes all of this possible. Together, we will keep pushing to make homeownership a reality for more people right across Wales."

The announcement was welcomed by the housebuilding industry.

Louisa Edwards, Marketing Manager at Edwards Homes Ltd, said: "We welcome the extension of the Help to Buy Wales scheme until 31 March 2027.

"This is excellent news for first-time buyers, providing continued support to help them purchase a new home in Wales.

"To date, 45 per cent of Edwards Homes' sales have been made through the Help to Buy Wales scheme, demonstrating just how important and valuable it has been in helping people take their first step onto the property ladder."

Help to Buy – Wales has been one of the Welsh Government's flagship homeownership initiatives since it was introduced in 2014. The scheme enables eligible buyers to purchase a new-build property with a five per cent deposit, with the Welsh Government providing an equity loan to reduce the amount that must be borrowed through a mortgage.

The Empty Homes Grant forms part of wider efforts to address the thousands of long-term empty properties across Wales, bringing disused buildings back into productive use while helping regenerate communities and reducing the need for development on greenfield sites.

The latest extensions come as housing affordability continues to be a major issue in many parts of Wales, particularly in rural and coastal communities where rising house prices and demand for second homes have made it increasingly difficult for local people to get onto the property ladder.

Ministers say the combined package of support will continue to help families access affordable housing, protect homeowners experiencing financial difficulties and create more sustainable communities by making better use of existing housing stock.

The closure follows Whitbread's confirmation that all Brewers Fayre restaurants across the UK will cease trading on September 7, marking the end of the family dining brand after decades on Britain's high streets and retail parks.

The Afon Conwy site, located at Glan Conwy Corner on the busy A470, is among 195 restaurants across the UK affected by the company's plans, which include the closure of 89 Brewers Fayre and 106 Beefeater restaurants.

Whitbread, which also owns the Premier Inn hotel chain, says it is reshaping the business into a "pure-play" hotel operator, with many former restaurant sites set to be converted into additional Premier Inn bedrooms.

The company has blamed the move on mounting financial pressures facing the hospitality industry, including persistent inflation, rising business rates and higher National Insurance costs, which it says have made some restaurant operations no longer commercially sustainable.

The closures are expected to affect around 3,800 jobs across the UK and Ireland, although Whitbread has said it hopes to redeploy as many employees as possible into other roles within the business where opportunities exist.

Customers have already been notified of the changes through the Beefeater Reward Club, while notices on Brewers Fayre websites confirm that loyalty schemes will end before the closures take effect. A banner on the Afon Conwy Brewers Fayre website advises customers that its Bonus Club loyalty scheme will close on Monday, August 31.

The Afon Conwy Brewers Fayre has become a familiar landmark for both local residents and visitors travelling through the Conwy Valley. Positioned next to the Premier Inn at Glan Conwy Corner, it has served generations of families, holidaymakers and business travellers visiting Conwy, Llandudno and Eryri.

Its closure represents the end of an era for one of the area's best-known roadside restaurants and leaves uncertainty over the future use of the building, although Whitbread has indicated that many restaurant spaces will eventually be converted into hotel accommodation as demand for Premier Inn rooms continues to grow.

The announcement forms part of one of the biggest shake-ups seen in the UK casual dining sector in recent years, reflecting the wider challenges facing restaurant operators as rising costs continue to reshape the hospitality industry.

Officers were called at around 12.30pm on Sunday (July 26) following reports that a body had been found on a beach in Aberystwyth.

North Wales Police has now confirmed the man has been identified as Connor Parfitt, one of the two men reported missing from the Pwllheli area last week.

Connor's family and the coroner have been informed.

The search for Simon Wilson is continuing, with officers supporting his family and appealing for any information or sightings.

Concerns were first raised after Simon and Connor were last seen near the beach off Hafan y Môr, Pwllheli, at around 6.30pm on Tuesday, July 21. They were believed to have been heading to the beach carrying inflatable kayaks and failed to return.

A major multi-agency search operation was launched involving North Wales Police, HM Coastguard, RNLI lifeboats, search and rescue teams and specialist aircraft, with crews searching along the coastline and surrounding waters.

Chief Inspector Stephen Pawson said: "My thoughts remain with both Connor and Simon's families at this incredibly difficult time.

"This is not the outcome any of us had hoped for, including the teams involved in the searches.

"Thank you to partner agencies, volunteers and members of the public who assisted in our searches over the last six days.

"We continue to appeal for any information or sightings of Simon to contact us quoting reference O120829."

The discovery in Aberystwyth, around 40 miles south along the Cardigan Bay coastline from Pwllheli, comes after several days of extensive searches involving emergency services and volunteers.

Police have not released any further details about the circumstances surrounding Connor's death. The matter has been passed to the coroner and enquiries remain ongoing.

Anyone who may have seen Simon Wilson, or who has information that could help locate him, is asked to contact North Wales Police quoting reference O120829.

The campaign, "I Wish Someone Had Told Me", features first-hand accounts from people whose lives have been affected by ketamine, with organisers hoping the honest stories will encourage young people to think twice before experimenting with the Class B drug.

At the heart of the campaign is Bradley's Story, a documentary-style film in which Bradley, a former ketamine user from Rhyl, speaks openly about how his drug use began, the addiction that followed and his eventual recovery.

Describing one of the darkest moments of his addiction, Bradley says: "I thought I was going to die, I thought I was going to be a statistic."

His story is accompanied by a series of striking campaign messages based on the experiences of young people and their families, including: "I wish someone had told me I'd end up dropping out of university."

The campaign brings together a wide range of organisations, including North Wales Police, Adferiad Mental Health and Addiction Support Services, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Public Health Wales, House of The Vivienne, Flintshire Sorted, In2change, Barnardo's, Be' Di'r Sgôr and The Wallich.

It comes amid growing concern over the increasing impact ketamine is having on young people across the region.

Figures released as part of the campaign show emergency department admissions linked to ketamine in North Wales have risen sharply over the past three years, increasing from 241 in 2023 to 372 in 2024 and 412 in 2025.

Organisations involved in the initiative say the increase is placing growing pressure on NHS services, addiction support providers and other public sector organisations.

Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans, of North Wales Police, said: "Ketamine misuse is having a devastating impact on young people across North Wales, and we are seeing first-hand the serious risks it poses to their health, safety and future.

"By sharing these real experiences and clear information, we hope to encourage early conversations, early intervention and ultimately prevent lives from being damaged.

"This work would not be possible without the commitment of our partner agencies, who bring their expertise, compassion and determination to tackling this issue from every angle. I want to thank each organisation involved for their continued dedication in helping us protect our young people and support those who need it most."

Dr Jane Moore, Executive Director of Public Health at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said clinicians across North Wales were seeing a significant rise in patients suffering conditions linked to ketamine use.

She said: "Clinicians across our services in North Wales have seen a large increase in the number of patients with conditions linked to ketamine, including young people who have developed lasting and life-changing physical and mental health issues.

"It is vital that young people and parents can get clear, honest information about the harm ketamine can cause from places they can trust – and that's why we are working with other organisations across North Wales to support this important prevention campaign."

Mike Cooper, Youth Work Co-ordinator at In2change, Wrexham's young people's drug and alcohol service, said referrals involving ketamine had risen significantly between 2021 and 2025.

He said the service is responding through drug education in schools, one-to-one support, harm reduction advice, diversionary activities and specialist training for professionals working with young people.

Parents and carers are also being encouraged to have open conversations with their children about the dangers of ketamine and to seek support if they have concerns.

Campaign organisers hope that by putting real stories at the centre of the initiative, they can help prevent more young people from experiencing the long-term physical, mental and social consequences associated with ketamine use.