THE community of Burry Port came together to try and find a bicycle, which had been stolen from one of the town’s well known and much loved young men, Gareth McKibbins.
In what many have described as a callous act, the bicycle was stolen from Gareth as he went about his chores, shopping for his mother, Eira at the local Co-op store.
Gareth’s Mum was adamant that this was the equivalent of ripping Gareth’s heart out such was the emotional attachment he had with his bicycle, which provided his independence in daily living. Even though the bike was over 20 years old and had been continually fixed by Gareth’s friend and bike mechanic Dylan, it was his pride and joy.
Cllr Amanda Fox said that she believe that is was the power of the community who brought the bike back and said that she wanted to stress how hard the police had worked in the matter.
Gareth who has downs syndrome has competed for Wales at swimming and plays prop for the Warriors rugby team. He is also a big Scarlets fan. He was happy to have been reunited with his bicycle even though it was severely damaged. Speaking to Llanelli Online he said ‘Thank you’ to the community of Burry Port.
His mother Eira said: “We have had so many kind offers from businesses and the community including an offer of a free bike from Halfords.” We have been overwhelmed with the kind offers from the people of Burry Port and further afield.”
Police in Burry Port have arrested and interviewed an 18-year-old man, from the Llanelli area, in connection to a reported robbery outside Co-Op, Station Road, Burry Port. A man was attacked and his bicycle stolen during the incident, which happened at around 9pm on Tuesday (March 13).
The suspect has since been bailed with conditions which prevent him entering the Burry Port area, while the investigation continues. The victim is being supported by specially trained officers and his bike has since been returned.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police by calling 101. If you are Deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908. Quote reference 32 of March 14.
You can watch our film we made on a visit to Gareth today, Friday, (Mar 16).
Gareth says ‘Thank You’ from Llanelli Online on Vimeo.
