THE entire Amman Valley village of Garnant has been devastated by the death of the 41-year-old woman who lost her life in a road crash last week.

Bethan Davies, of Maesybedol, died in a collision with a college bus on the A483 near Tycroes in atrocious conditions at 4.21pm on Tuesday, January 29.

Tributes have been led by Garnant councillor and leader of Carmarthenshire County Council Kevin Madge, who had known Bethan and her family for more than 30 years.

“I have been absolutely shattered by the news of Bethan’s death – the whole community is devastated,” Cllr Madge told the Guardian.

“Bethan was an absolute gem of a person.

“She was always so kind and helpful to everyone who knew her.

“She was a truly lovely lady – quite simply one of the best. She will be sadly missed.

“I feel absolutely devastated for her mother and brother and my heart goes out to them.

“The entire community needs to rally around them - they need all our support and we, as a community, will help them in any way we can.”

In a statement issued through Dyfed Powys Police, Ms Davies’ family said: “Bethan was a loving daughter, beloved sister, a valued friend and work colleague to many and well-loved within the community.

“Our loss as a family is indescribable and the fact that she is no longer with us has not yet sunk in properly.

“We are touched and very grateful for every one of the messages of support and condolence we have received from family, friends and from the community as a whole.”

Ms Davies was travelling between Pont Abraham roundabout and Tycroes when her car collided with a bus carrying students from Coleg Sir Gar to Llanelli.

Twelve students were injured in the crash, but none seriously.

●The funeral willbeheld at Llanelli Crematorium at 10am tomorrow (Thursday). Bethan’s family would appreciate donations be given to the National Deaf Children’s Charity in lieu of flowers.