13/10/2026
Remembering Andrew Davies D7 – A True Carmarthen Coracle Man
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew Davies, a much-loved member of the Carmarthen coracle fishing community, who dedicated nearly 40 years of his life to the River Towy and the unique heritage of coracle fishing.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Andrew’s beloved wife Helen and their two daughters Rosie and Lily at this very sad time.
Andrew first came onto the river as an endorsee of Johnny Rees, learning the ancient skill of coracle fishing at a time when the river was alive with fish and full of the colourful characters who made up the coracle fishing community. In time, Andrew took over the D7 coracle licence and went on to become Chairman of the Carmarthen Coracle & Netsmen’s Association.
A skilled and dedicated craftsman, Andrew made both coracles and coracle nets, helping to keep alive the traditional skills that have been passed down through generations. He was immensely proud of Carmarthen’s coracle fishing heritage and passionate about sharing its history with others. Over the years, he welcomed countless schoolchildren and visitors to the coracle sheds and The Quay Centre, helping them understand and appreciate this remarkable part of our town’s identity.
Andrew proudly represented the coracle fishermen in the annual St David’s Day Parade, carrying his beloved D7 coracle through the streets of his hometown alongside his fellow coracle men. He was also a familiar face at the Carmarthen River Festival, taking part in the coracle races and joking that he was hoping to win the wooden spoon. That sense of humour and camaraderie was part of what made Andrew so special.
Andrew also took part in the two-year Coastal Tales project with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, sharing his knowledge of traditional coracle fishing. In August 2026, he travelled to Alaska to meet local fisherfolk, sharing experiences and traditions across communities. It was a wonderful opportunity for Andrew to help showcase Carmarthen’s unique coracle fishing heritage on an international stage.
In more recent years, Andrew’s passion for the river extended beyond fishing and heritage. Having witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of pollution, he became a determined campaigner for a cleaner, healthier River Towy. He was deeply frustrated by the lack of action to protect the river he loved and worked tirelessly to raise concerns, attending numerous meetings and standing up for its future.
Even in his final days, Andrew’s determination had not faded. He had planned to attend today’s petition event outside the Senedd, continuing the fight for the river that had been such a huge part of his life. His fellow coracle men made sure his presence was felt by taking his D7 coracle with them. It was a fitting tribute to a man whose commitment to the river never wavered.
Andrew worked so hard, not only as a coracle fisherman, but as someone determined to ensure that this ancient tradition would survive for generations to come. His contribution to our heritage, his friendship, his craftsmanship and his tireless advocacy for the River Towy will never be forgotten.
He was a gentleman, a good friend and a passionate champion of everything our coracle fishing community stands for.
The River Towy will not be the same without Andrew. His coracle may rest on the riverbank, but his legacy will live on in the traditions he helped preserve, the people he inspired and the fight to protect the river he loved so dearly.
Rest in peace, Andrew. Thank you for everything you gave to our river, our heritage and our community.
You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
