An Ammanford dad has been honoured by the Stroke Association.

The charity’s Life After Stroke Awards celebrate the achievements and contributions of local stroke survivors, carers, volunteers and fundraisers across Wales.

Dave Jones, 38, was a new dad to a six-month-old baby boy when a stroke left him with both physical and emotional challenges.

Dave was supported by the Stroke Association and attended a local group for survivors, where he saw that rehabilitation was possible.

He said: “I don’t say you recover from stroke, you rebuild.

“I’ve met people from within the stroke community who’ve been so helpful.

"I’m a member of the Carmarthen young men’s stroke group where there are boys younger than me – it doesn’t just affect older people.”

The Life After Stroke event, which took place at the Hilton Hotel in Cardiff, was sponsored by Barclays Partner Finance, with one award sponsored by the University of South Wales, and was opened by former Wales and Lions rugby player and pundit, Brynmor Williams, who volunteered his time after losing his own mother to stroke.

Carol Bott, Director of the Stroke Association in Wales said: “Congratulations to everyone nominated for a UK Life after Stroke Award.

"We were thrilled that so many people across Wales were nominated and were able to join us in highlighting the tremendous courage people have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping and supporting others to do just that.

"We know that a stroke happens in an instant but the affects can be devastating and last a life time.

“There are over 7,400 strokes in Wales each year with almost 68,000 people living with the effects of stroke today.

"The Stroke Association in Wales provides a range of services to support stroke survivors and their carers, and we encourage anyone affected by stroke to contact us if you need information or support”.

The Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards are an opportunity to recognise the courage shown by stroke survivors and carers as well as the great work and commitment shown by health professionals, groups and supporter organisations.

For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA