Aberavon’s Labour politicians have strongly criticised plans for a proposed mass gathering on Aberavon Beach planned for this weekend.

David Rees MS and Stephen Kinnock MP have urged local people to continue following the Welsh Government’s Covid-19 guidance – and stay away from any public gathering until restrictions have been lifted by the Welsh Government.

In a joint statement Mr Rees and Mr Kinnock said: “Following the reports of plans for a mass gathering on Aberavon Beach this weekend, we are urging people to stay away from such events. We must continue to follow the clear and necessary guidance set out by Welsh Government and leave our homes for essential purposes only.

“Neath Port Talbot has not been exempt from the virus and we have sadly seen the devastation that some families have suffered as they have lost loved ones to Covid-19. Anyone who organises public gatherings of this nature at this time are behaving in a reckless and irresponsible way and putting the public at risk.

“In the last week, we have made good progress in Wales to minimise the spread of this virus. Gatherings like this will only undermine the good work and discipline people have put in up to now to keep safe, protect our fantastic NHS staff and save lives.”

‘We fully understand that people want to get back to work, and to meet up with friends and family again. But now is simply not the time to do so. It is vital that we honour the memory of those who have so tragically died because of this awful virus by ensuring that we do everything that we possibly can as a community to beat it.’