**Wales Online – Breaking News, Weather, and Traffic Updates (Monday, October 28)**
**Latest News from Across Wales and Further Afield**
Hello and welcome to WalesOnline’s live blog for Monday, October 28. We’ll be providing you with all the latest updates from Wales and beyond, whether you’re on the move, at home, or at work. We’ll cover the latest traffic and travel news, along with major stories from the UK and around the world. Feel free to contribute to the live blog by posting your comments below or tweet us @WalesOnline to share breaking news from your area.
**Man Hospitalized after Alleged Assault**
In Welshpool, a man has been taken to the hospital following an alleged assault. Dyfed-Powys Police responded to a call at 1 am on Sunday, October 27, reporting the incident on Berriew Street. The 21-year-old victim is in stable condition, and an 18-year-old suspect has been arrested on suspicion of assault, later released on bail for ongoing police investigations. Anyone with information is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police or Crimestoppers anonymously.
**Fertility Rate in England and Wales Hits Record Low**
The total fertility rate in England and Wales plunged to an all-time low last year, with live births dropping to the lowest level in almost five decades. The rate for 2023 stood at 1.44 children per woman, the lowest value since records began in 1938. Fertility rates have been declining since 2010, with the sharpest decrease seen among women aged 20 to 24. The average age of mothers remained constant at 30.9, while fathers’ average age rose slightly to 33.8.
**Today’s Met Office Forecast**
Expect a cloudy day with mist and occasional rain, especially in western regions. Temperatures may reach 15°C during the day and remain mild at night with a minimum of 9°C.
**Traffic Update: M4 Eastbound**
One lane on the M4 Eastbound is closed for barrier repairs from J35 to J34, causing queueing traffic.
**Fatal Crash on A40**
A fatal two-vehicle crash occurred on the A4069 between Llangadog and Llandovery, resulting in one fatality. The vehicles involved were a black Volkswagen and a black KTM motorcycle. The deceased’s identity has not been disclosed, and witnesses or individuals with dashcam footage are urged to contact the authorities.
**Body of Missing Woman Found**
Police confirmed the body found on Saturday belongs to 49-year-old Joanne Jones, who went missing on October 21 in Pontypridd. Her death is not deemed suspicious, and her relatives have been notified. Community efforts, including police searches, were instrumental in locating her.
**In Other News**
– The Department for Work and Pensions explains the £300 Winter Fuel Payment schedule.
– Fans of reggae legends UB40 can look forward to a gig at Cardiff Castle.
– Former Rhondda pub, damaged by fire, is set to be transformed into a care home.
– A couple rigs fortune through lawn mowing business established in 2008.
– Manchester United searches for a new manager as Erik ten Hag faces axe.
Stay tuned for more updates throughout the day. Share your thoughts and news with us as events unfold across Wales and beyond.
Your trusted source for breaking news and updates, Wales Online.