Llanelli Rallies to aid Families Following Felinfoel House Fire

On Thursday, August 21, a devastating house fire in Felinfoel completely destroyed one property and caused serious damage to another, leaving the residing families displaced and devastated. Emergency services responded swiftly, ensuring the families from the affected homes were evacuated to a safe distance and taken care of.

Image: Mid and West Wales Fire Service tackle the fire

Emergency Response and Firefighting Efforts

Fire crews from Llanelli, Gorseinon, Morriston, and Port Talbot raced to the scene shortly before midday. Deploying six fire engines, specialist equipment, and breathing apparatus, firefighters worked tirelessly for more than three hours to bring the blaze under control. Dyfed-Powys Police attended to close the road and erect a cordon for public safety.

The British Red Cross is working closely with local authorities to ensure the affected families receive both emotional care and practical assistance during this difficult time.

Councillor Rob Evans Offers Immediate Support

Cllr Rob Evans attended the scene of the house fire at Brohawddgar and offered assistance to the affected family. Upon arrival, he was introduced to two occupants by staff from Ty Enfys Family Centre in Llanelli.

“I immediately offered my help to ensure the family had somewhere safe to stay for the evening and worked on arrangements for their longer-term accommodation, as their home was severely damaged by the fire,” said Cllr Evans.

Temporary Accommodation Secured

Two young adults were taken to Ty Enfys Family Centre, where Cllr Evans met them and explained the steps being taken to rehouse the family. Their mother, who had been in Cardiff, was on her way back at the time.

Thanks to the swift response from the Carmarthenshire County Council housing team, temporary accommodation was secured quickly. Social services are also providing ongoing support to the family, which consists of a mother, two young adults, and two younger children.

Community Rallies to Support Displaced Families

Local residents, Ty Enfys, and the people of Llanelli are rallying together to donate clothing and essential household items for the family, who lost everything in the fire. Donations can be dropped off at Trallwm Hall and The Good Shed, opposite Rice Street in Llanelli.

“As a former paramedic, I am relieved that no one was injured in the fire—homes can be rebuilt, and belongings replaced,” Cllr Evans added. “The professionalism of the fire service and police was outstanding. If the family needs any further help, both myself and Cllr Nysia Evans are just a phone call away.”

Extent of the Damage and Appeal for Help

While Cllr Evans could not comment on the extent of the damage to the neighbouring property, he confirmed that the home where the fire began was completely destroyed. The family living there have lost all their possessions and have been made effectively homeless.

We understand through information gathered that the neighbouring property of the house that the blaze started in has also been left totally uninhabitable. A GoFundMe has been arranged to support the family of the second property.

Cllr Evans said it was totally devastating to the families, but despite this, the community is rallying to support them.

“It’s a testament to the people of Llanelli,” said Cllr Evans. “People are coming out of the woodwork now to support both families during this difficult time.”

Donations and How to Help

Volunteers sort through donations at the Railway Goods Shed – pic Shaun Greaney

Donations of clothing, soft toys, and household items are already being collected at the Ty Enfys Family Centre in Llwynhendy and the Railway Goods Shed to help the families rebuild their lives.

If you would like to make any donations, you can take them to The Railway Goodshed at Marsh St, Llanelli SA15 1BG.