A MAJOR new gateway has been developed to welcome people to Ammanford.

Three iconic sculptures have been placed at the entrance to the town.

Metal-framed boars have been created along with landscaping, new lighting and better signs near Penybanc.

The £95,766 Ammanford Gateway project is aimed at creating a sense of identity and encouraging visitors.

It has been funded by a Welsh Assembly Government Environmental Improvement Grant and Carmarthenshire County Council.

Regeneration staff from the council led the scheme in partnership with Ammanford Town Council and the Assembly Government.

Sculptor Tony Woodman was commissioned to construct the boars, which celebrate the town’s Celtic history and the link with the Mabinogian tales.

According to legend, King Arthur and his knights hunted the Wild Boar – Twrch Trwyth – throughout middle Wales, including the Amman Valley.

The boars made their first appearance during a procession at the Ammanford Big Day Out and have now been installed as part of the gateway.

Carmarthenshire’s Regeneration Executive Board Member Cllr Clive Scourfield said: “The Gateway scheme is aimed at intriguing people and creating a memorable image of their visit.

“The boars are a fantastic feature and provide an attractive focal point for visitors entering the town from Tycroes.”