The launch of the Carmarthenshire section of the Heart of Wales Line Trail took place at Llandovery Station this week.

Walkers arrived by train, on foot and by car to the event held on June 26.

The opening ceremony, organised by Robin and Monica Barlow of Llandovery Walkers are Welcome, began with Llandovery Male Voice Choir, originally a railway choir.

Speeches by Councillor Peter Hughes-Griffiths and Councillor Handel Davies took place and both the station and the volunteer run Station Café were highly praised.

After the official launch and refreshments, courtesy of the Station Café, three guided walks departed from the station, primarily to explore the newly-opened section of the Trail with one route branching off to Llanfair Church to see the grave of William Williams, Pantycelyn, the renowned Welsh hymn writer.

The two longer walks both took a break at the Myddfai Community Café and Hall, a chance to get out of the hot sun, share stories, attend to blisters and enjoy tea and marvellous cakes.

Prof Les Lumsdon, who has been a key figure in the making of the new trail from the outset, said: “Increasingly we are seeing sections of the trail, for example the trail between Llandovery and Llangadog, reaching an exceptionally good standard – and that’s something to be very proud of.

"The route between Cynghordy and Llandovery is also much improved and our thanks go especially to Alan Warner and the Carmarthenshire Rights of Way team, who have been extremely supportive.

"As time goes on we will see much of the trail reach these high standards.”

Rachel Francis, Manager of the Heart of Wales Line Development Co, added, “It’s a brilliant idea and the team working on it have been an inspiration.

"People of all abilities will be able to enjoy this trail and the wonderful and ever changing countryside that it passes through.

"The new trail provides a long distance challenge for the boldest walkers, a great opportunity for occasional weekender's to get away from it all and get fit, and better access (by rail) for walkers and would-be walkers of all abilities.

"Rail and Trail is a winning combination.”