Tributes have been paid to a St Clears police officer who was tragically killed in a collision last week whilst cycling.

A memorial service was held on Monday morning at Dyfed-Powys Police headquarters in honour of Sergeant Lynwen Thomas, who sadly passed away on Thursday evening (February 25).

Thirty-seven-year-old Sergeant Thomas who lived in St Clears and had previously been stationed in Pembrokeshire, worked as Dyfed Powys Police’s heritage crime officer.

“As a police family we mourn Lynwen’s untimely passing. With thanksgiving we recall the joy that Lynwen shared with us, that joy we will forever cherish; the memories of her will never die,” said temporary Chief Constable Claire Parmenter at the memorial service held on St David’s Day to honour Sgt Thomas’ life and to give thanks for her dedication to Dyfed-Powys.

A minute’s silence was held to remember Sgt Thomas and to think of her loved ones, with Chief Inspector Elaine Bendle then reading a poem entitled ‘For Lynwen’ describing her former colleague as a hero and “the most selfless woman by far”.

Retired force chaplain Tom Evans and Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn closed the service with a prayer and grace.

The mayor of St Clears, Clr. Ian Richards, a former colleague of Sgt Thomas, has also paid tribute.

“On behalf of St. Clears Town Council and the local community, I wish to express my sympathy and sadness at the sudden loss of Lynwen,” he said.

“Lynwen was a friend and ex-colleague of mine, but also a friend to so many people from the town, and this tragic incident has spread much sadness throughout the local community.

“Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues at this time, as we all come to terms with our loss. Her smile, kindness and love of life will always remain with us.”

Police are appealing for information following the fatal collision on February 25.

The A40 between Carmarthen and St Clears was closed for several hours following the tragedy, after police officers responded to the fatal collision which involved the cyclist and a van on the westbound dual carriageway near Bancyfelin at around 6.40 pm that evening.

The driver of the van was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and enquiries into the circumstances of the collision are ongoing, with any witnesses asked to come forward.

If you saw the incident and have not yet spoken with police, if you might have seen the cyclist or van involved prior to the collision, or have dash cam footage, please contact the Serious Collision Unit as soon as possible, either online: http://orlo.uk/d10jq; via email: [email protected], or by calling: 101