The march, which set off from Sandy Water Park and wound through the town centre before finishing at Parc y Scarlets, was organised in response to the Welsh Rugby Union’s consultation on the future of the professional game in Wales. Supporters fear the Scarlets could be lost if the number of regional sides is reduced.

Carl said he was proud to stand alongside fans, former players and community leaders to show support for the club.

“I attended the Scarlets protest march in Llanelli yesterday, representing Kidwelly. The Scarlets have a huge heritage in the area — so many players have come from Kidwelly and Mynyddygarreg.

The loss of the Scarlets through the WRU’s potential reduction of the number of professional sides would be devastating, not just for the economy of South West Wales — Llanelli in particular — but also for the culture of the region.

Rugby here is more than a sport. It’s part of who we are, and it binds our communities together. That’s why I’ll always stand up for the Scarlets and for grassroots rugby across Carmarthenshire.”

The march was filled with colour, banners and song, with Scarlets legend Rupert Moon addressing the crowd and choirs leading supporters along the route. Political representatives from across the spectrum also attended, underlining the breadth of opposition to any plan that risks the region’s future.

Carl added:

“This isn’t about party politics. It’s about protecting something that belongs to all of us. The Scarlets are woven into the fabric of west Wales life, and losing them would be a blow we cannot afford.”