MP Adam Price has never been slow to speak out over random violence and he was swift to condemn the horrendous attack which left Amman Valley footballer Paul Pugh fighting for his life back in January 2007.

What bitter irony, then, that Mr Price should himself fall victim to an unprovoked street attack which left him with facial injuries. And this incident did not take place on the streets of Ammanford late at night but in the comparatively tranquil setting of Worcester at around 5pm on Saturday afternoon.

As a result Mr Price was unable to attend his parents’ 50th wedding anniversary celebrations.

We wish him a speedy recovery and send our sympathies to his parents for the cloud this cast over their party.

************** Llandovery’s Christmas tree tradition has become the latest victim of barmy Health and Safety regulations which infringe upon our lives.

When conker-playing kids are ordered to wear goggles and cuddly toys are banned from refuse trucks you have to question those responsible.

For years Llandovery town councillors have erected up to 60 Christmas trees around the town, but they have been told that scaffolding and mobile platforms are required, and they do not possess the necessary insurance.

Yes, we live in a litiginous age where people sue at the drop of a hat, but the end of this tradition is just another example of old-style community spirit falling foul of the modern world.