Man faces life sentence after murdering 'loving and generous' pensioner

A man is facing life imprisonment after admitting to murdering a "loving and generous" pensioner.

Kyle Bowen, 28, pleaded guilty to killing 73-year-old David Williams, at Swansea Crown Court on Friday.

Mr Williams was found dead following an assault outside his house near Pontwalby Viaduct, Glynneath, in January.

A court heard the cause of his death had been "a blunt force to the head and trunk".

Mr Williams' family said he "would go out of his way to help anyone he could."

“He was very well known in the dog showing community and he will be missed very much," they added in a statement.

He was nicknamed 'Dai Doberman' for his love of dogs and involvement in dog shows.

"Dave was such a lovely man," said Sue James, regional officer for the Doberman Welfare Association, of which Mr Williams had been a member for around thirty years.

"I can't believe he's gone. It's such a shock.

"He had been an important member of the The Doberman Welfare Association and dogs were his life.

"He had two dobermans - Eva, who is little older than a puppy, and George. They were always by his side. 

"He adored those dogs and he was the kind of person who would go out of his way to help someone."

South Wales Police said: "Our thoughts remain with Mr Williams’ family who continue to be supported by specially-trained family liaison officers.

"I am pleased that today’s plea means they will not have to endure a trial which can be very distressing.

"Myself and my team would like thank the community of Glynneath and Pontwalby who were clearly shocked and saddened by Mr Williams’ murder."

Bowen has been remanded in custody until he is sentenced on July 16.