TWO residents of Ammanford – an athletics volunteer and a police constable – will join a British Lions Test player and a singing star as finalists of the first St David Awards in March, which recognise the achievements of people from all walks of life, each nominated by members of the public.

The finalists were announced today by the First Minister, Carwyn Jones at a ceremony at the Wales Millennium Centre.

Nathan Jones, 18, has been nominated for the young person category for his dedication as a volunteer over the past three years at Carmarthen and District Harriers Athletic Club and Amman Valley Harriers.

The teenager is a voluntary assistant team manager for Carmarthen Harriers, also taking on administrative duties along with managing their website. He has also volunteered with Dyfed Schools and West Wales athletics and cross country teams.

In 2012 Nathan qualified as a track officiating official and acts as a track official and marksman at Welsh athletics competitions.

“I’m happy to be nominated and short-listed for a St David Award for my work volunteering with the athletic clubs," he said. "I enjoy my work with the athletic clubs and within athletics in general and it has helped me make a number of friends at Carmarthen Harriers and Amman Valley Harriers.

“Being nominated for this award in the first year is hugely exciting and I am very much looking forward to the awards evening itself.”

Llanelli-based police officer PC Alun Morgan has been nominated in the bravery category following an incident at Cilyrychen Quarry, Llandybie, in June 2012 when the officer put his own life at risk in his vain attempts to rescue 14-yr-old Luke Sommerville.

PC Morgan, a former lifeguard, said that at the time the priority was to do everything possible to save the boy.

“In the police force we are trained to assess situations and respond accordingly," he said.

"For me, I did what was necessary and in such situations you often don’t have time to think.

"I am very grateful for this nomination and will be very proud to represent Dyfed Powys Police in these inaugural Welsh awards.”

Famous faces, including both Leigh Halfpenny and Warren Gatland, have been nominated for their contribution to Welsh sport and the singer Cerys Matthews has been nominated in the international category for promoting Wales all over the world through her music.

The winner for each category will be announced in an award ceremony at the Royal Welsh College for Music and Drama in Cardiff on Thursday, March 13, which will be televised by S4C, with English commentary available.