A COUNCILLOR says he owes his life to the NHS as he journeys on the road recovery from coronavius.

Talgarth County Councillor William Powell, spent several weeks in intensive care with coronavirus, being admitted to Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny on Thursday, March 16 and immediately placed on a ventilator.

He remained in a serious but stable condition for a long period, before beginning to improve around the Easter weekend. A prolific Twitter user, he returned to the platform last Saturday, April 25 to express his appreciation for the staff who had cared for him.

Beyond Talgarth, Cllr Powell is a well-known figure in the Welsh Liberal Democrats, having served as Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales, Party President and Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Panel member. His recovery has been a huge relief for many party members, for constituents in Talgarth and beyond and for friends of all parties and none.

Speaking about his NHS care, William Powell said: “I owe my life to the dedication and professionalism of the staff at Aneurin Bevan Health Board, whose expertise gave me the chance to survive, also my GP Dr Paul Barnes, of Crickhowell Group practice, who ensured I was admitted without delay.

"As I reconstruct the lost weeks, it is deeply humbling to learn of the kindness and dedication of those Welsh NHS staff who treated me. I will forever be in their debt.”

Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for Brecon and Radnorshire, Kirsty Williams said: “This is a huge relief for the whole Welsh Liberal Democrat family. William has been a huge presence in local and national politics and contributed greatly to improving the lives of people in our communities.

"I have always greatly valued Bill as a colleague and friend, and his energy, determination, and passion for public service.

“This crisis has brought to the fore, the extraordinary people who care and assist others through their daily work, particularly our nurses and other NHS staff. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude.”

James Gibson-Watt, Glasbury Cllr and Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrat-Green Group on Powys County Council, added: “It was fantastic to speak to Bill over the phone after a long period where we feared we might never be able to again. I am delighted that he is recovering well.

“Thank you to the staff at Nevill Hall Hospital involved in Bill’s care and caring for all those suffering with COVID-19. Thank you also, to everyone who has been in touch to wish Bill well and who have given his family privacy and support during this difficult time.”