Three men were arrested after a 25-year-old man died at Penmaenau Farm campsite near the Royal Welsh showground, hours before the Royal Welsh Show was due to get under way. Temporary Chief Supt Steve Davies said the death is being treated as unexplained, while police say there is no evidence of any ongoing risk to the wider public.
About 22.30 BST
Paramedics were called to a medical emergency at Penmaenau Farm, Llanelwedd in Powys, at about 22.30 BST on Saturday. The man died despite their efforts, and the investigation has now shifted to what led to his death and why three men were arrested on suspicion of drugs-related offences.
Steve Davies and Llyr Gruffydd
Davies called it a “tragic incident, and our thoughts remain with the young man's family at this difficult time” and added: “I would like to reassure the public that this is an isolated incident and the death is currently being treated as unexplained”. He also said: “There is no evidence of any ongoing risk to the wider public in connection with this sad incident.”
Llyr Gruffydd added a second warning against speculation. He said: “It is important not to speculate what has happened and to remember that police investigations are on going”, and later: “As a parent of children who are staying in the show this week it reminds us of the importance of thinking about others and looking after each other”.
Royal Welsh Agricultural Society
A spokesperson for the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said: “We are deeply saddened by this tragic news, and our thoughts are with the young man's family and friends, and with everyone affected by this incident.” The spokesperson also said: “The safety and wellbeing of everyone attending the event remains our priority.”
The society said it was working closely as members of the Builth Wells Event Safety Group, with welfare and support services, medical provision and safety initiatives in place. For anyone heading to the Royal Welsh Show, the practical reading of that message is simple: the event is proceeding with safety cover intact, while police enquiries continue and three men remain in custody.
