Pontardawe NPT and Cwmtawe Comprehensive School arranged a Community Alcohol Partnership Day speaking with Year 10 students about the dangers and effects of Alcohol and Drugs last week.

Ammanford attack victim Paul Pugh spoke to the students about the unprovoked assault outside the Old Cross Inn on January 6, 2007 for which four men were jailed.

He told students about how a quiet night out for a drink with his friends changed his life forever.

Paul said: “For the love of god when are people going to learn that you don’t need alcohol to have a good time.

“By sharing my story I hope we can work together so this doesn’t happen to anyone else.

“I am determined to recover and prove to myself that I can do it.”

The pupils had the opportunity to ask Paul questions about his story and they were shocked to find out that he has forgiven his attackers and described it as “weight lifted from his shoulders”.

A carousel event was then held in the afternoon with partner agencies speaking with students of the diversionary activities they have to offer in the area.

PCSO Sian Jenkins told The Guardian: “This was an excellent event, which was well-attended and well-received by students, teachers and partner agencies.

“The day was a great success with partner agencies working together.

“The mornings guest speaker Paul Pugh was greatly enjoyed by all and was greatly received by all involved.

“The word remembered by all ‘’forgiveness’’.

“I would like to thank Paul, his family, the school and all partners for helping this to be once again a successful event.”