A POPULAR Powys vlogger has vowed to carry on doing what he does after vandals smashed up his car – in what he believes is a personal attack.

Simon John, known as ‘Jungle’ in his hometown of Builth Wells, has become renowned in recent years for covering local events and promoting good causes in and around the town, as well as talking to people and promoting mental wellbeing, while also detailing his own battle with mental health.

But, he was posting a vlog of a very different nature on Saturday morning, July 29, detailing the damage caused to his Toyota Yaris in the early hours.

Simon woke to find four of his car’s windows smashed in, with a scaffolding pole found in the back of the vehicle believed to be the implement used.

“I’m taking it as a personal attack, it feels like I’ve been targeted,” said Simon.

“I’ve taken it very seriously. It’s knocked me about a bit. Lots of friends think it could be just jealousy because of what I do.

“As most people know I suffer with my own mental health so for something like this to happen, it’s sad really, because what I do is all rooted in helping me with my own mental health and shining a light on the subject and helping others who suffer too.”

Simon has become something of a local celebrity over the course of the pandemic, launching his own Jungle Productions Facebook page. He uses his spare time to take to the screen, firstly promoting the fact he walked up to a local beauty spot known as Garth Hill that overlooks the picturesque town every day for a whole year in February 2021.

He donated all the funds raised from his Garth Hill challenge – more than £6,000 – to Builth Wells Community Support (BWCS).

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Since that feat he has become more active on his vlog, using his platform to promote local businesses, events and competitions.

Last weekend he had just finished a busy Royal Welsh Show week following the owners of Penmaenau farm, beside the showground.

County Times: Simon 'Jungle' John pictured with members of Builth Wells Community Support at the end of his year-long challenge Simon 'Jungle' John pictured with members of Builth Wells Community Support at the end of his year-long challenge (Image: None)

“It won’t stop me doing what I do, I love it,” said Simon.

“As I say on my Facebook page, it’s a way of life. I’m creating positivity and this won’t stop me blogging about the community I live in and love.

“If anything, it will encourage me to carry on and do even more.

“People approach me to shine a light on what they’re doing. They might not particularly want to promote it themselves or to talk themselves up, but they’re keen for coverage.

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“And, there’s plenty going on to get me back out there, with the Builth’s biggest potato competition coming up soon and a charity bike ride. There’s so much going on that’s good in the town.”

He added: “I’d like to thank people, who have been so kind, from the bottom of my heart.

“Our neighbours have been brilliant and so supportive and Dyfed-Powys Police have also been brilliant. They have told me they’ve got some interesting leads, so hopefully whoever did it will be brought to justice.”