I’m standing as an independent because I believe our communities deserve better than party politics.

Full statement

My promise is simple: to listen, to act, and to put people first. Free from party agendas, I can work with anyone to deliver what matters most — stronger schools, thriving towns, and a fairer future for Carmarthenshire.

My Roots
I was born in Carmarthen and grew up in Argoed Crescent, Trimsaran, the son of a miner. My wider family has deep roots in Carmarthenshire’s farming communities, with dairy farms in Idole and Pontantwn. Although I’m an only child, it’s a big family — if you meet someone in Kidwelly or Mynyddygarreg with the surname Peters, chances are they’re related to me.

I went to Ysgol Trimsaran and later Glan y Môr Comprehensive in Burry Port. School wasn’t always easy — I struggled with exams and writing because of dyslexia — but I developed a strong interest in science, technology and engineering. That curiosity has shaped much of my life.

Work and Life
Like many in Llanelli, I started young. At 12, I was working Saturdays on a pet stall in Llanelli Market. As a teenager, I set up my own aquarium cleaning business, before taking on what became my lifelong career: medical leech farming. It’s a unique job — in fact, I remain the only leech farmer in the UK after more than 35 years — but it’s one I’ve enjoyed and built with pride.

I believe in the future of our market towns. They are the heart of our communities, and I’ve seen first-hand how important they are to local people and businesses.

I lived in Llanelli town centre for 15 years before moving to Mynyddygarreg, near Kidwelly, where I’ve been for the past 12 years — close to where I grew up.

I’ve been married to my husband Chris for 17 years. We were one of the first couples in Llanelli to enter into a civil partnership, and later married at Llanelli Old Town Hall on our fifth anniversary.

Serving My Community
For the past seven years, I’ve served as an independent councillor on Kidwelly Town Council. I’ve had the honour of being Mayor for four successive years — the longest continuous term in over 400 years of the town’s history — and I still hold that role today.

My approach has always been simple: listen to people and act on what they ask for. I’m not bound by party politics or agendas. That independence means I can work with anyone, from any background or viewpoint, if it’s in the best interests of our community.

Why I’m Standing
People are tired of politicians who argue amongst themselves instead of listening. I believe there’s a better way. My mantra is clear: people, not party politics.

I believe in small government, less red tape, and more genuine engagement with the public on the issues that matter most to them. I want to bring that approach to a wider stage — practical, people‑focused, and free from the distractions of party lines.

My Promise
I’ve never been a member of any political party. I’m standing as an independent because I believe our communities deserve a representative who puts people first, not politics. If you share that belief, I’d be honoured to have your support.

More information:
You can find out more about Carl and his campaign at https://carlpetersbond.wales/