Heartbreak in Carmarthenshire as a devastating flood claimed nearly 300 sheep when a Welsh river rose suddenly. New to farming, Kiyan and Tetiana Freedom have been left reeling after torrents of water swept through their rented land near Pontyates, catching them off guard. “I had no time to think,” said Kiyan, who battled the waist-deep water, diving into the deluge in a bid to rescue their flock.
The couple, who fled their respective countries seeking safety and a fresh start in the UK, established their flock earlier this year, hoping it would aid Kiyan’s recovery from lung cancer. But last week’s downpour saw their efforts drowned—272 sheep carcasses recovered so far, a figure they sadly expect to grow.
Local farmers and friends have rallied to assist, bringing machinery to lift both drowned and surviving sheep. The community’s outpouring of support has been heartening, but the challenges remain vast. A wrecked vehicle, destroyed feed supplies, and tattered fencing are just some of the obstacles the Freedoms face in the aftermath of the flood. “All of the lamb cake feed has gone. All the hay is gone,” Kiyan woes. Rebuilding will be costly, especially with a disposal bill they hadn’t anticipated.
Landowner Bob Stratford highlights the urgent need for better river maintenance to prevent similar disasters in the future. “We need to discuss what can be done to get the river dredged,” he urged. A call to arms for farmers is in motion, aiming to ensure their collective safety from such rapid floods.
As the community works together to salvage and protect what remains, Kiyan and Tetiana remain hopeful but in need of guidance and resources. “We still need advice and help for this kind of situation,” Kiyan shared. Those wishing to lend a hand or offer support to the Freedoms during this difficult time are encouraged to reach out. Together, they strive to overcome this tragic setback and rebuild their future in farming.