Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a well-known couple from Wiston who were killed in a collision at the weekend.

Married couple Ian and Shirley Richards died in a collision on the A40 just outside Haverfordwest at 3.50pm on Saturday (May 10).

Ian and Shirley produced honey at their West Valley Honey Farm home in the village near Haverfordwest.

They had been at the farm for around 30 years.

Ian had kept bees for more than 65 years, acquiring his first beehive in 1947. He had spoken in the past about the plight of the honey bee and had devised his own solutions to ensure his bees were kept healthy.

The couple’s son, Mark Richards, a serving police officer in the county, made a statement on behalf of the family.

He said: “Shirley and Ian will both be sorely missed by all their family and friends. They were devoted parents and grandparents and were active members of the Beekeepers Association, the Church and the Royal Welsh Fusiliers Old Comrades. Their door was always open and they were always willing to help anyone.

“The family wish to thank everyone for their kind words.

“Our thoughts and prayers are also with the other people who were injured in the collision and their families.”

Members of the Pembrokeshire Beekeepers’ Association also paid tribute to the popular couple.

“Ian started keeping bees when working for the police and continued and expanded his beekeeping in retirement. He provided many beekeepers with their first bees and was always willing to provide practical help and advice to local beekeepers.

“He had been an active committee member of Pembrokeshire Beekeepers’ Association for many years. Shirley was invariably at Ian’s side assisting with honey processing and producing preserves which they sold alongside their honey at Pembrokeshire Farmers Markets where they were familiar faces.

“Our thoughts are with their family at this sad time,” a statement added.

Friend and neighbour, Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb, said they would be greatly missed.

"There is an enormous sense of shock and grief in the village. We are all struggling to come to terms with what happened and praying for the wider family. Ian and Shirley were known and loved by so many people, and their loss will be felt deeply.

“They were both incredibly warm and generous, and were very special friends. Two very bright lights have gone out,” said Mr Crabb.

Anyone with information about the collision should call 101.