A TIBETAN Buddhist monk, third in line to his holiness the Dalai Lama, will be honouring Ammanford with his presence again this week when he returns to spread love and compassion across the town.

The trip will be the fourth time Geshe Lama Ahbay Tulku Rinpoche has visited the town but this time he has a special role.

The guest will have the honour of performing a closing ceremony of the Harmony and Reflections building as shop proprietor Helen Norman announces her semi-retirement.

Harmony originally opened in the Arcade in 2006 and moved to Quay Street in 2015.

Helen, who turned 60 in December, told The Guardian: “I would like to thank my customers, friends and family for their continuous support over the last 12 years whilst in business.

“Harmony will still live on but on a smaller scale due to semi-retirement.

"I began meditation and become spiritual around 25 years ago and it has been my life ever since.

“Diolch yn fawr and thanks everyone for making Harmony such a wonderful success.

“I feel truly blessed to have been in Ammanford for such a long period of time.”

Harmony and Reflections shop will officially close on Saturday, April 14 but Helen will continue her counselling, meditation and healing classes and will still be attending fetes and fayres with her merchandise.

Helen plans on organising spiritual trips to Glastonbury and other locations including a special trip to Geshe Lama Ahbay Tulku Rinpoche's monastery.

There will be an opportunity for residents to see Geshe Lama Ahbay Tulku Rinpoche on Friday, March 23 and Saturday, March 24 when he will be at Harmony and Reflections store.

He will also be giving private Puja blessings and ceremonies this Wednesday and Thursday for metaphysicians and meditation groups where the holy man will give teachings and philosophy from the Dalai Lama and a talk on removing obstacles from your life.

“There will be chanting and a healing ceremony before each person is personally given a blessing," added Helen.

“Please call in and be blessed by this holy man."

"He will bless Quay Street at around 2pm on Friday so feel free to join us."

The monk will also visit the Temple of Light in Ystradgynlais and Swansea's Peace Mala during his visit to Wales.