Police in Ammanford give warning to Cilyrychen Quarry trespassers

Despite safety warnings to stay away from the site, people are still cutting the perimeter fences to gain access to the lagoon.

Neighbourhood Constable John Hill of Dyfed-Powys Police has praised Tarmac Ltd for their continued efforts to keep the site secure after reports of damage to fencing at the disused site.

“Apart from the issue of safety and trespassing, swimmers are committing criminal offences by carrying tools and cutting the fence” said PC Hill.

“The message couldn’t be clearer; the fences are there to keep people out for good reason.

"Quarries are dangerous places with steep cliffs, freezing cold water and sharp objects just under the surface. I urge people to consider the consequences of entering the quarry and the water.

"The water can look inviting, but is very cold and deep, and even experienced swimmers can suddenly find themselves in difficulty.”

Tarmac Ltd are operating a CCTV system at Cilyrychen, which is monitored 24/7and security staff are employed at the site and police continue to patrol daily.

Constable Hill added “The primary concern is, of course, safety. However, Tarmac Ltd are keen to take action against trespassers and Police are committed to recording and investigating criminal offences.”

Seven years ago, on June 6, 2012, Luke Somerfield, a Tre-Gib School pupil, was with three friends when he got into difficulty in the quarry’s freezing water.

He was pulled from the water by rescue teams but died that day in Morriston Hospital.

Luke’s parents David and Kim set up the Luke Somerfield Memorial Trust after his death.

The charity aims to advance the lives of young people in Carmarthenshire by providing advice and organising programmes of physical and educational activities.

The charity also teaches water safety awareness and potential life saving skills in the hopes that it will prevent another tragedy such as Luke’s from happening.