The Pembrokeshire Herald - Issue 328 - 18th October 2019 by Herald Newspapers

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woman assaulted twice in two days

A HAVERFORDWEST man assaulted a woman for a second time two days after causing her actual bodily harm, a court has heard. Rennie Dean Edwards, of Slade Park, Slade Lane, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates via video link for sentencing on Wednesday (Oct 9). Edwards, 51, had previously pleaded guilty to assaulting a woman in Haverfordwest, causing her actual bodily harm on September 30 and had also admitted to assaulting the same woman by beating her on October 2. Magistrates imposed a 12-month community order with a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement and the man was fined £80 as well as being ordered to pay £85 costs, plus a £90 surcharge.

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A HUGE MOMENT But deal will put a border in Irish Sea Father found guilty of raping his daughter • p3 hangar5.wales

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Father found guilty of raping his daughter He fathered six children with her over 20 years A MAN, who fathered six children by his daughter over 20 years, has been found guilty of 36 charges of rape and one charge of sexual assault. The man cannot be named for legal reasons. The Swansea Crown Court heard that the man had repeatedly raped his daughter and had fathered ‘at least’ six children as a result. He had denied all the charges against him but was convicted on Wednesday (Oct 16) by a jury, after four hours deliberation. The victim had told the court that her father told her he wanted to ‘teach’ her how to have sex, so she knew what to do when she entered into a relationship with another man. At just 14-years-old, she became pregnant with her first child. She told the court that she and her sisters were living with her father when they were teenagers, and she was questioned by him about any sexual relationships she had had in the past, and that he told her: “I will show you how it’s done one day.” She ignored the comment. Within a few weeks of being questioned, her father began touching her in sexual ways, touching her arms and her behind. It wasn’t long before she was taken off in the car by him to a recycling centre, with nearby woodland. It was there that she was forced into having sex with her father. She told the court: “I knew that was wrong and I thought it would never happen again but I was wrong. It happened at least two to three times a week.” She said that she had to deal with the thought of knowing that it was going

to happen again, whether it was out and about or in her bed. She was too scared to say anything, the court heard. The abuse continued from when she was 14-yearold until she reached adulthood at 18. The victim explained that she had been brought to an area that was secluded and forced her to touch him. He told her it wasn’t wrong, and that he was going to teach her how to ‘do it right’, and that she will learn from what he was doing to her. She told the court: “It made me feel dirty. We went back to the car. I would not talk to him. He told me my attitude better change before I get home.” The daughter told the court that if they ever went out together by themselves, he would suggest having a ‘quickie’ in the back of the car, which she said happened 20-30 times. He would also come into her bedroom while she slept and ‘throw’ himself on top of her, causing her to wake up. She said that he would be there for a few minutes and be gone again. In that time, would have had penetrative sex with her and left. She said: “I was made to feel disgusted and used. That’s how it felt. I felt there was nothing I could do to stop it.” The court heard about a time he has come into her bedroom whilst she was on her period and said it was the ‘wrong time of the month so left again. The victim also recalled a time when she was taken over to her father’s friend’s address, where she described the man as being a ‘big flirt’ with her and her sister. She was still in her school uniform. Her dad told her to

take off her clothes and lie down on the bed. Her dad’s friend them came into the room, climbed on top of her, ‘crushing her’, before engaging in sexual intercourse with her. Her father was in the room at the time. She said: “I was staring at my father thinking ‘why is he letting this happen?’ He was just watching him and didn’t acknowledge my face at all.” The man had used elements of witchcraft and the occult to manipulate her and even went to the lengths of including a fake mystic who told the women they had to perform sex acts with him. She told the court her life was based on messages from the mystic and had even cancelled holidays she had booked because she was told there was an accident waiting for her. The psychic had told her a problem would occur with her child in five years, and something did happen and she thought because of that, it was real. She left home at the age of 18 but visited her old home with her boyfriend on occasions in later years. Her father admitted having sex with his daughter when she was 14 but claimed that he was blackmailed by her to continue a sexual relationship with him when she was a teenager. He claimed that she told him she wanted to have sex with him and that if he didn’t he would end up in prison. A witness had contacted Crimestoppers in 2017 because she was suspicious that her father had been abusing one of her sister’s daughters - a teenage girl. However, police were hampered because the sibling had refused to allow

DNA tests to be carried out. Video footage was shown to the court of an interview between the daughter and the police, where she said she began to be abused by her father when she was aged around 13 or 14, and her father had told her they weren’t related because he was in prison at the time she was conceived. She also told police that he would give her alcohol and cigarettes, and would ‘touch’ her while they cuddle up watching films late at night. She then became pregnant with her first child at the age of 14. She said it felt like she was dating him at the time, but she didn’t know what dating was like because she hadn’t dated anyone at that point. A story was concocted to say that the father of the baby was, in fact, a boy from school, for when social services asked them what had happened. She was told by her father not to tell anyone about what happened and that everything would be okay. She became pregnant again at 16 following the birth of her first child. She told the court that her father had sex with her nearly every night. She was also receiving daily emails from her psychic, who told her that she was to purchase a witches’ ring from eBay, and she must drink her father’s urine to control her man. The second pregnancy ended in a miscarriage, however, she went on to have two more children with her father in the space of two years. One child sadly passed away in infancy. The court heard that after her father was arrested, he remained in contact with her, and she still received emails from

the psychic. The psychic told her that the allegations against her father were false and that she was lying to cause trouble and make money. She became pregnant again last year by her father but aborted the baby after her father bought her termination pills online, which she took. She said she was ‘too chicken’ to go to a clinic. On Wednesday, the father was asked if she accepted if he was having sex with his daughter for several years, to which he said yes. He also accepted that he was having sex with her from the time she was 14 until he was arrested and that he fathered children by her. He said that when the children were born, he didn’t think they were his, and named three other men that he thought may have been the father. He told the court that he got drunk one night and she told him they had sex and accused his daughter of controlling his life by threatening to take photographs. He said she wanted to ‘play mummy’, however, he admitted that when he did have sex with his daughter, he never wore protection.

He also told the court that he saw his daughter having sex with his father, and with one of her sons, but was told to ‘mind my own business’. He added that he suspected she may be ‘after compensation’, and denied ever taking her out in the car to have sex with her. He told the court that when he had sex with her, it was at her insistence, saying: “I was like a little ant on the hill, and everybody else was on the other end of the see-saw and I was the poor bugger who would fall off.” When asked if he was, in fact, the mystic who would send daily emails, he said no, but said the mystic was known to him. The mystic was named Amelia Sanctuary and would send explicit emails telling his daughter to perform sex acts with her father. One of the emails even praised her father on his sexual performance and how his stamina was that ‘of an 18-year-old man’. Following claims of being blackmailed into having sex with his daughters, prosecutor Mr Hipkin asked why he did not go to the police. He said: “Who are they going to believe? Me or the girl?

They are always going to believe the girl.” Mr Hipkin said the blackmail story was one he had recently made up and was ‘utter nonsense’. In summary, the judge concluded that the daughter had been through nine pregnancies - six live births, two miscarriages and one termination. The judge, Paul Thomas QC, said: “Through that, you were having unprotected sex with her, are you saying it never crossed your mind that you were the father?” The defendant said: “It might have done.” After four hours and 23 minutes of deliberating, the jury returned to say they found the defendant guilty of 36 counts of rape and one of sexual assault. Judge Paul Thomas said: “I have been involved in criminal cases as a barrister and as a judge for 40 years. This is in the top three worst cases I have ever had to deal with.” He added: “You will not be surprised to hear a very long prison sentence awaits you.” The father has since been remanded in custody. He will be sentenced next Friday.

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Council to explore prosecution

PEMBROKESHIRE County Council has set up a working group to consider exploring a prosecution in respect of the Pembroke Dock Commercial Property Grant Scheme. Earlier this year, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said they would not be prosecuting. Dyfed-Powys Police also accepted that there had been ‘regrettable’ delays in investigating the matter. The CPS decision came not long after the recipient of the grant money, Cathal McCosker, paid back a large sum of money to the council.

The Council appealed against the CPS decision because of several inaccuracies and although it was upheld, it was considered that they weren’t significant enough to change the outcome. The working group was proposed by Cllr Mike Stoddart, who himself has said is considering a private prosecution, and will have seven members. Cllr Jacob Williams said the case wasn’t done justice by the Police or the CPS adding that the opportunity for them to prosecute had passed and that if the council could

do so they should do it. Cllr Stoddart said that people reading about the story are appalled at what they have read and added that he was ‘determined to get to the bottom of it’. Cllr Paul Miller said they had to ask “What message are we sending to people?” when dealing with grant money adding “We’ve got to be a bit more robust.” Cllr Stoddart called for a recorded vote with 43 members voting for 1 voting against and there were three abstentions. Cllrs Stoddart and Williams were then voted on to the working group as unaffiliated members.

HUNDREDS of vulnerable people living across South West Wales have been coming together to enjoy the shared experience of live music at their local day centres. Electricity distributor Western Power Distribution (WPD) has provided funding for 15 free live music sessions with professional musicians. The initiative follows a partnership between the company and UK charity Music in Hospitals & Care, which provides nearly 5,000 live music performances each year. These bespoke, interactive concerts are designed to reach and connect people whilst encouraging communication, meaningful interactions

and evoking joyful emotions and memories. One visitor at the Day Centre in Tenby Cottage Hospital experienced a particularly moving response to the music. Senior Carer, Sing Taylor, told us her story: “Mair lives with her husband in Pembrokeshire and is originally from North Wales. Her first language is Welsh and she is living with Dementia, which at times causes her to experience great depths of anxiety and confusion, which can be very upsetting & distressing for her. Tenby Day Centre was fortunate to have a wonderful young woman, Joy Cornock, who came to sing and play the harp. It was a joy to see Mair taking part and she joined

in singing in Welsh to every song and listened intently to it all. This brought a tear to my eye, as usually Mair can struggle to join in and even make conversation. This live music session was wonderful and it certainly improved and helped reduce Mair’s anxieties and agitation. It lifted her spirits and enabled Mair in that moment to connect with the music, sing in Welsh and fully participate. Mair looked so happy.” At each of the South West Wales concerts WPD has been promoting its Priority Services Register (PSR), which is a free service enabling vulnerable people to get priority support in the event of a power cut. WPD’s Karen Welch explained: “Power cuts

Mike Stoddart: Called for a working group to be set up

The joy of singing in Welsh

Our taxi drivers provide you with a local taxi service in and around of Haverfordwest and Pembrokeshire – this includes Johnston, Narberth, Roch, Tenby, St Davids, Milford Haven and Pembroke. If you’re further afield in Pembrokeshire and need a taxi ride, we can do that too – including holiday transfers to hotels and holiday cottages, and corporate contracts. We also offer long distance taxi transfers beyond Pembrokeshire

Harpist: Joy Cornock was joined by WPD’s Mark Phillips at Tenby Cottage Hospital Day Centre happen sometimes for reasons beyond our control, and we know how worrying it can be, especially if you rely on electricity for medical equipment or if you are elderly, vulnerable or disabled. “Our PSR is designed

to give people with specific needs a little extra help when they need it, and our partnership with Music in Hospitals & Care is enabling us to reach some of our more vulnerable customers in rural areas of West Wales.”

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Speeding leads to court fines A 53-YEAR-OLD woman appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (Oct 15) to face a charge of speeding. Jayne Watkin Phillips of Walton East, Clarbeston Road, pleaded guilty to driving a Seat Leon Fr Technology Tdi on the A40 at Toch Hill, whilst exceeding the prescribed speed limit.

The court heard that on July 28, Phillips had been travelling at a speed of 100mph at Toch Hill. The limit was 60mph. Magistrates fined Phillips £301 for the offence and ordered her to pay £32 victim surcharge and £85 prosecution costs. Her driving licence was also endorsed with five penalty points.

The speeding driver has to be ‘very careful’ A MAN from Haverfordwest appeared before the town's magistrates on Tuesday (Oct 10) to face a charge of speeding. Kieran Kilminster, aged 26 of Clover Park, pleaded guilty to speeding at Toch Hill in Haverfordwest on July 31 in an Audi A4. The speed that Kilminster was driving at was 111mph in a 60mph zone. The court heard that Kilminster already had three points on his licence for a defective

tyre. Kilminster said: "I apologise. I was overtaking and there were two lanes." The chair of the bench asked if there was an exact reason for speeding, two which Kilminster said no. Magistrates fined Kilminster £311 for the offence and ordered him to pay £32 victim surcharge and £85 prosecution costs. His licence was also endorsed with six penalty points. The chair of the bench said: "You already have three, so you have to be very careful now."

Fine for disorderly behaviour at Withybush A HAVERFORDWEST man appeared before the town's magistrates on Tuesday (Oct 15) to face a charge of disorderly conduct. Mark Hambrook, aged 34 of Fleming Crescent, pleaded guilty to the charge. Prosecutor, Vaughan Pritchard-Jones, said: "The incident occurred at Withybush General Hospital. The defendant attended the hospital with his girlfriend. Both were in the resus part of A and E, and the defendant was sitting in the bed being very abusive to staff and shouting and using the 'F' word in every sentence. He was uncooperative so the police were called. He told police the staff were f***ing useless. There

were three other occupants in resus beds, and all of them were alarmed by his behaviour." Defence solicitor, Jonothan Webb, said: "He doesn't disagree with the facts. It was out of order. He had far too much to drink, and he can't remember the incident. He has suffered from alcoholism for several years, and he recently required a community order. He has a long way to go as far as sobriety is concerned, but his drinking is reducing. On this day, he drank many bottles." Magistrates fined Hambrook £120 for the offence and ordered him to pay £85 prosecution costs and £30 victim surcharge.

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Withybush cancer ward’s overhaul starts CONSTRUCTION and engineering work is well underway as part of the modernisation and refurbishment of Ward 10 at Withybush Hospital. Building work started on the project in April 2019 and the ward is now starting to take shape. Although some of the early stages of construction work has taken slightly longer than planned, Hywel Dda University Health Board confirms that the work is expected to be completed early in the New Year. In the meantime, Ward 10 patients are currently being cared for in the repurposed Ward 9 area whilst the building works on Ward 10 are carried out. Working in partnership with key stakeholders, the Health Board is keen to ensure the improved facility strengthens services and provides a better environment and inpatient experience in a modern, purpose built, fit for the future facility, in which to care for designated oncology and haematology patients, and those with complex palliative care needs. The refurbished ward 10 area will provide five en-suite single beds to enable greater privacy during care and for access by neutropenic sepsis patients and those requiring isolation facilities. Smaller bays (2 x 4 bedded bays and 1 x 3 bedded bay) are also being developed as well as improved overnight facilities for relatives plus a dedicated day/dining room for patients. There will also be a dedicated multidisciplinary team meeting and video conferencing facility, as well as much needed storage space, to support a safer and improved environment and

Construction work underway: Ward 10 Withybush gets massive refit to comply with the relevant infection prevention and fire safety standards. Whilst the majority of funding for the development is provided by Welsh Government, more than £500,000 of charitable donations are contributing to the scheme from the health board’s Pembrokeshire Cancer Services Fund, Elly’s Ward 10 Flag Appeal, together with significant donations also received from the late Luke Harding and his family. Dr Andrew Burns, Hospital Director at Withybush said: “Our partners, charity and fundraising representatives in the local community are integral to the development of this project. We very much value, and thank them all for, their ongoing involvement and support.” Lyn Neville, Elly’s

father, added: "We are very proud with all that Elly’s Ward 10 Flag Appeal has achieved, having now raised over £208,000 for cancer patients on Ward 10, and we wish to thank everyone who has supported and encouraged us over the last four and a half years. We are very excited that our hard work will soon come to fruition when the ward re-opens in the New Year, at which point patients and staff will experience an enhanced and much more comfortable environment in which to receive care and treatment and to work in.” The Harding family commented: “Fundraising initiated by Luke Harding when he was originally diagnosed with lung and brain cancer, has been allocated in line with his wish towards the new facilities at Withybush Hospital’s

Ward 10, where he received treatment. Luke's vision, that whilst medical care is vital, the provision of nonclinical relaxation areas for patients and their families is also essential towards the quality of life, wellbeing and retaining as much personal dignity and normality as possible. With supporters who contributed throughout the world, the majority known to him, others not, but all touched by his selflessness, openness, and determination to make a difference, we as #teamharding are pleased that this has been recognised.” The Health Board has been closely working with stakeholders to identify innovative ways to significantly improve the patient experience on ward 10, involving engagement with fundraisers and

donors, members of the ward 10 Stakeholder Group (including the Community Health Council), patients, ward 10 staff, the hospital’s management team and other key staff groups. The improvements feature items to make a patient’s stay in hospital more comfortable, including additional patient comforts, enhancing the ward environment generally, specialist equipment, staff training and technology. Ward Sister, Nicola Zroud, commented: “Our patients and staff will benefit so much from this enhancement of the ward, which would not be possible without the fantastic generosity of our fundraisers and donors. We are extremely grateful to everyone involved and keenly await the ward’s reopening.”

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A HUGE MOMENT

But deal will put a border in Irish Sea LOCAL Tory politicians have moved to praise their leader for this work on the Brexit negotiations. But other parties have condemned the deal, which creates a hard border in the Irish Sea. Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb told the Herald in a statement: "Boris Johnson has proved his doubters wrong. He has reopened the Brexit negotiations and landed a better Brexit deal for the United Kingdom. This is exactly the kind of deal we need for Pembrokeshire, with our oil refining and farming interests." “I am pleased that Boris has taken advice and I believe we are now in a position to get Brexit done. However, there is a big

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moment coming for Labour MPs who’ve been telling their Leave voters that they really want to deliver Brexit. Well, there is now a deal on the table and they should get behind it if they are serious about honouring the referendum result.” Simon Hart MP said “I think that at long last we have something that resembles a consensus. People said that it wouldn’t happen, and that it could not be done, its extraordinary that it has been done.” “Both sides would have had to give a bit of ground. The onus is now on MPs to bring the final stage to a conclusion with the vote on Saturday.”

Stephen Crabb MP: Deal will protect refinery and farms

“Any more delay would be bad for business and the country; and the inability to deliver on a referendum is not a great accolade for Parliament.” “This is potentially a huge moment.”

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'A BAD DEAL FOR WALES' Plaid’s Jonathan Edwards MP who represents Carmarthen East and Dinefwr constituency said: "A poor man’s Trump statement from a politician who has just signed a deal based on the initial Brexit demand of the EU. What a fraud." Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats Jane Dodds, said: “It is remarkably clear that Boris Johnson’s deal would be bad for our economy, bad for our public services, and bad for our environment. “His deal will create a hard border down the Irish Sea, hurting Welsh farmers and businesses - as well as causing chaos at our ports. The deal is so bad even the DUP have said they won’t back it and no Welsh MP should be supporting it either. "The next few days will set the direction of our country for generations, and I am more determined than ever to fight to stop Brexit and protect Wales’ place in Europe. “This deal must be put to the public, with the option to remain. When this deal comes before Parliament, I and my Liberal Democrat colleagues will do all we can to make sure we get a People’s Vote.” Northern Ireland's DUP

has warned it still cannot support the agreement. Ex-Welsh first minister Carwyn Jones told BBC Wales Mr Johnson was "in exactly the same position which Theresa May was in" with the DUP "holding the rest of the UK to ransom". The Northern Irish party earlier released a statement saying it could not back proposals "as things stand", and - after the Mr Johnson's announcement - said their statement "still stands". 'A REASONABLE FAIR OUTCOME' At 2pm on Thursday (Oct 17), Boris Johnson has just given a brief statement to the press at the EU summit alongside Jean-Claude Juncker, the European commission president. Juncker said the deal was fair and balanced. He said: "This is a fair, a balanced agreement. It is a testament to our commitment to finding solutions. It provides certainty where Brexit creates uncertainty. The Prime Minister said this was a very good deal for both sides. He told reporters: "I do think this deal represents a very good deal for the EU and the UK. I think it is a reasonable, fair outcome and reflected the large amount of work undertaken by both sides. I agree very much with

Jean-Claude about what he said about protecting the peace process on the island of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Of course, for us in the UK it means we can deliver a real Brexit that achieves our objectives. He added: "It means the UK leaves whole and entire on October 31 and it means that Northern Ireland and every part of the UK can take part in not just free trade deals, offering our tariffs, exporting our goods around the world, but it also means we can take, together as a single United Kingdom, decisions about our future our laws, our borders, our money and how we want to run the UK. Those decisions will be taken in the UK by elected representatives of the people in the UK." BORIS: PLEASE BACK ME The Prime Minister urged Parliament to back his "great new" Brexit deal that he claims "takes back control" - but crucially the agreement isn't supported by the DUP or Labour. European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker said the deal was a "fair and balanced agreement for the EU and the UK and it is a testament to our commitment to find solutions". And the EU's chief

negotiator Michel Barnier confirmed the news, telling the European Commission: "We have arrived at an agreement with the British Government on an ordered withdrawal of the UK from the EU." He added: "Discussions over the past days have at times been difficult, but have delivered and we have delivered together." He said the revised withdrawal agreement answers the "uncertainty" created by Brexit. After the deal was announced the DUP said an earlier statement saying it could not yet back the prime minister's Brexit plans "still stands". Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn claimed the deal is "even worse" than Theresa May’s. The Northern Irish party earlier released a statement saying they could not back proposals "as things stand", and - after the PM's announcement - said their statement "still stands". In a letter recommending the deal to European Council President Donald Tusk, he wrote: "It is high time to complete the withdrawal process and move on, as swiftly as possible, to the negotiation on the European Union's future partnership with the United Kingdom."

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FOR OUR COUNTRY Some thoughts on the proposed Brexit deal

Many people will know (although some may not) that despite being a Labour Party member, I actually support leaving the EU. I voted to Remain in 2016 but have since changed my position. There are multiple reasons for this. The main one is democracy. We all have our different opinions and beliefs yet I believe that it’s vital for any liberal democracy to respect the individual sovereignty of the people, and to disregard and undermine a vote so substantial is dangerous and disrespectful. There have been many accusations that people were misled, that the vote was racist or fascist (words that have become meaningless because of how freely they are thrown about today), or that “no one voted to make themselves poorer” and they were tricked. From my experiences since the vote I have to say that I truly disagree with all of these accusations and have been disgusted by the way that that Leave voters have largely been treated by brigades of sneerful patronising people who have no respect for other people’s decisions if they go against their own. In a democracy you must accept things that you do not like, to try and impose your subjective view of what is right or wrong is authoritarian, and is actually the definition of being fascist. From spending hours door knocking one 2016 and speaking to many individuals from all across the political spectrum, including many Labour voters, it’s clear that people don’t regret their decision and still want to leave. It’s no surprise

to see that in Wales, a country where the leave vote was higher than the national average, that the Conservatives have now overtaken Labour in the Westminster polls, no doubt a response to Welsh Labours misguided full throttle remain position. People don’t want economic damage of course, but a lot are willing to accept it and actually value certain things higher than profit which is commendable in my opinion! There has been a lack of willingness to engage with our Leave supporting communities and it is going to cost us so many constituencies. Places like Bolsover and Hartlepool will now be under threat. Only a handful of MPs like Caroline Flint and Lisa Nandy seem to have actually made an effort to respect the wishes of their constituents. Attempts to get a second referendum are merely weakly disguised efforts to overturn a result people don’t like. It would be a disgrace and an insult to 52% of people who voted Leave to offer another ballot with options of Remain and Remain-light, a Leave deal that sees us tied to all of the EUs structures and rules. Yes, not everyone had the exact same vision as Leave, but I’m pretty sure 99% of voters wouldn’t have voted to leave only to have to abide by all the same rules and regulations as being in but with no way, that renders the point of leaving completely pointless. Getting a deal that works for the country and for the EU has been thwarted by undemocratic elite powers who have no concerns but their own. The EU up until

recently have not taken the negotiations seriously because they have no reason to. Why offer any concessions or facilitate leaving when they know that our own parliament can simply force the country into extension after extension, and is even trying to get another vote. The EU has until now been able to let us extend constantly with the hope that they can get a GE or referendum to overturn the result. Any deal negotiated in my opinion would always have a few things guaranteed: a stop to free movement to some degree, a departure from the key structures of the EU to increase sovereignty, and a close alignment to trade so business has minimum disruption. The proposed deal that has now been negotiated pretty much fulfils those requirements. People talk about a cut in GDP growth, but remember there is a 2 year transition phase! We’re not even going to leave properly until another 2 years and in that time the government will be able to create trade deals that closely mimic what we currently have to keep disruption to a minimum. I imagine we will seek a FTA close to Canada. What Labour could do is actually pass the Withdrawal Agreement, force a General Election and then put forward their own political declaration if they wanted! Outside of the EU there are plenty of opportunities for growth. How can people think our entire economic future is contingent on remaining part of this political trade bloc? Whatever party you support, all of their policies and ideas can be pretty much enacted

By Daniel Metcalf from Haverfordwest outside the EU. There’s even an argument that a lot of Labours more radical policies are ONLY possible outside the EU. MPs worried about no deal have the chance to pass a deal that takes that off the table. If they vote against it they can’t blame anyone else. Those worried about Northern Ireland, the EU have agreed the deal works and is sensible, and that includes the approval of Ireland. Why not work together now to just get on with carrying out the departure as the people voted for over 3 years ago. This deal means businesses operate as normal for 2 years and we should have a similar trade agreement in place afterwards. There are plenty of things we can do to grow the economy from there. Imagine if instead of trying to attack other people’s opinions that we don’t agree with we all worked together constructively to try and make a success of the future. Whatever way you voted for, democracy, sovereignty, none of this should scare you. I will probably get a lot of stick for this and I have seen a lot of prominent figures involved with Labour calling for the IMMEDIATE SACKING of any Labour MP who supports the deal. This is just silly factional politics and is indicative of the hostile and silly political environment we now have. People should not be scared to have and voice their own opinions, and should be respected and listened to. No side has a monopoly on what is acceptable or not, or what is compassionate and right. The attempt to

stifle people’s thoughts and actions just because we dislike them is a dangerous one and something we should move away from. It is sad that people like Tony Benn, Bob Crow, Michael Foot and Bryan Gould would now be ridiculed as dangerous lunatics and people would be calling for them to be punished for their beliefs. In my opinion MPs need to put differences aside, pass the deal and bring the country together and focus on a positive future. Any rejection or second referendum will just lead to more division and disruption.

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Vote will come down to the wire

THE PM faces an uphill battle to pass his Brexit deal through the House of Commons without the support of the DUP. It would be just about possible if he retained all MPs who voted for the deal last time, all of the 28 Eurosceptic “Spartans” who rejected Theresa May’s agreement and won over a handful of Labour MPs. However, there are concerns about the deal among Eurosceptics, expelled former Tories and pro-deal Labour factions, making the result extremely ambiguous. The prime minister has about 259 votes in the bag and needs another 60-odd to get over the line (depending on abstentions). There is a possible pool of approximately 71 votes: The European Research Group (28 MPs) are reserving judgment until they have fully examined the legal text of the UK-EU agreement. It would be hard for many of them to back a deal rejected by the DUP. Johnson has worked

hard at trying to get them on side. Patel, Villiers, Andrea Jenkyns, Ranil Jayawardena, Lee Rowley and James Duddridge have so far all indicated they are likely to be on board. That still leaves 22 votes to win. Steve Baker, the chair of the European Research Group, said he was optimistic about supporting a “tolerable” deal but he has not given his blessing yet. The 19 Former Tory anti-no-deal rebels are mixed on whether they would now back a deal. Most of them would probably support Johnson because it would avoid the UK crashing out with

no deal. However, there is some concern among former cabinet ministers such as Philip Hammond and David Gauke that the deal is far harder than they would have wanted. Another of those expelled, Margot James, told the BBC she was likely to give a Johnson deal the “benefit of the doubt”, but she felt his current proposal was worse than May’s. There are 19 Labour MPs who indicated to the EU that they could be willing to vote for a deal if it contained sufficient assurances on protecting workers’ rights, the environment and giving parliament a say on the future relationship.

Could Freeports mitigate Irish Sea border? OPPOSITION parties believe that the Irish Sea Border could disadvantage local ports. But there is some good news. As previously reported, Milford Haven could become one of up to 10 new ‘Freeports’. Steven Crabb highlighted that one of the opportunities of Brexit is the creation of these to boost business activity at UK ports. Speaking in August he said: “Milford Haven is one of the UK’s leading energy ports with an unrivalled skills base and a wide range of facilities and infrastructure. I urged the Minister to ensure that Free Ports build upon the existing capabilities of ports and flagged up the potential for Milford Haven to be a successful Free Port. International Trade

Freeport?: Milford Haven Secretary Liz Truss MP said: “Freedoms transformed London’s Docklands in the 1980s, and Freeports will do the same for towns and cities across the UK. “They will onshore enterprise and manufacturing as the gateway to our future prosperity, creating thousands of jobs. “We will have a truly independent trade policy after we leave the EU on October 31.” Last year, Alec Don,

then chief executive of the port of Milford Haven, said free ports were of great interest and could have potential for different ports in Wales, each with different markets. "Being able to create a place where every movement of a good isn't attached with bureaucracy and tariffs but also where the decision to invest build a new fabrication hall or buy a new piece of plant - is something you can do quickly, at the

pace the market wants it," he said. However, some have criticised the planned freeports as being an opportunity for dodging taxes and causing upheaval to local economies. Labour’s Barry Gardiner, shadow trade secretary, said the plan would create a “race to the bottom that will have money launderers and tax dodgers rubbing their hands with glee”. “Free ports and free enterprise zones risk companies shutting up shop in one part of the country in order to exploit tax breaks elsewhere, and, worst of all, lower employment rights.” Singapore is currently the largest tax-free trade zone in the world, or free port, in the world, and the USA operates a total of 240 of them.

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Talented graduate launches leisurewear business

A UNIVERSITY Graduate, who gained a first-class honours degree in Design for Performance at Birmingham City University, has launched her new business in Pembrokeshire. Megan Rose Thomas, who lives in Milford Haven, launched Novi Wear in June after several months of planning and preparation. The business started as a swimwear and gym wear brand but Megan is also currently developing a line of clothing and knitwear to add to her collection. Megan said: "When I finished Uni I had done a few costume jobs and enjoyed that work, but I wanted to create a business doing something that I love. I love making things for people and seeing their reactions. I also like to support small, local businesses myself." When asked where the unusual name came from, Megan claims: "The name Novi comes from ‘Nofio’ which, in Welsh, means ‘to swim’. I had the idea for the business in mind for years and wanted to start with swimwear as it works for the area where I live. I wanted something short, snappy and memorable, but also with a meaning behind it. I have Welsh roots so I thought it would be nice to have something that linked to that. As swimwear is where I started, Nofio was a perfect fit. Must admit I love being based in Pembrokeshire as I grew up here and as much as I loved being in the city, I think Pembrokeshire suits the outgoing, fun and relaxed style of my business. My beach and gym wear is comfortable but still looks good. You can wear it up or dress it down." The location of Megan’s home and the studio is really important to her work and she cites living in 'idyllic Pembrokeshire' as an inspiration to her as well as a useful marketing tool. The photos for her website were taken at local locations, including Nolton Haven and Sandy Haven beaches. She also makes rash vests suitable for surfers and sea swimmers, like herself, who use the local beaches.

James Winstone

james.winstone@herald.email

Megan has always been a keen swimmer and competed in many sports activities when she was younger, as well as ballet classes. This is where her business idea originates from. Her course at Birmingham City University was Fashion design with design for performance, and she decided to focus her final year on costumes. "This meant I was making clothing for humans rather than a mannequin, so I learnt a lot about fitting an individual." Her dance and athletic background have allowed her to apply her knowledge of the movement and restrictions of material on the body. "This helped a lot in understanding the fit of clothing to the body, and it links closely to swimwear as well." Megan says she has always wanted to do something creative. In school, she chose GCSE textiles and her Mum bought her a sewing machine and taught her how to knit. Although she didn’t take to it that well, she eventually returned to it during University. When it came to considering A-Levels she was torn between focusing on a career in ballet, for which she had a natural passion, but struggled physically with the demands and toll it took on her body or doing something creative. In the end, she opted for a creative degree which allowed her to focus her talents towards performance in a different way. When asked how this affected her, she replies: "I thought that if I can’t be on stage then I want to be backstage." Ever since she has surrounded herself with everything she loves. She has worked both Front of House and backstage in Theatres, made costumes and leisurewear for numerous clients and she regularly attends cinema screenings and Theatre/ dance productions to feed her inspiration. It’s clear to see Megan’s passion for her business and she tells that she always wanted Novi to have a different feel to other brands.

She said: "I like the idea of a business being organic. I’ve used photographs of myself and my friends for the website and social media posts because I want it to come across as fun and natural." A quick search of Novi’s website brings up the quote ‘catering for REAL body types’. When asked about this, Megan says: "I don’t understand why plus size has to be labelled as a separate thing. A size 8 is no different to a size 18 in terms of structuring the clothing I make. I’ll make for whatever size you want – it doesn’t matter. As long as you’re happy and comfortable in yourself and what you’re wearing, that’s what’s important. Novi is for everyone." When asked how her business is different from others, she says: "No two businesses are the same. What makes it unique is me. I hand make everything to order, in my home." Megan has a studio in the house that she shares with her partner, Alex. Here, she works on orders from day to day, as well as working in the Torch Theatre as a Front of House Duty Manager and Box Office Assistant. She also works on costume/ wardrobe on the Torch Theatre Company shows during the Autumn. With the current focus on businesses and individuals playing their part in protecting the environment, Megan was asked how she ensures her business is eco-friendly. She replied: "It’s important to me. I prefer the term eco happy. I’m doing my best to be earth aware and animal aware. I use regenerated lycra for swimwear and gym wear which is made from recycled fibres, such as fishing nets, mixed in with new fibres. This is called ‘life recycled’ and it’s ordered from a company which allows me to produce at a reasonable price for consumers. The T-shirts that I order are ‘Climate neutral,’ as the factories in which they are made use entirely renewable energy. They use organic cotton which is verified by the Fairwear Foundation who work with companies to support

New businesswoman: Megan Rose Thomas opens a new clothing brand in her home county

better working conditions." There have been some recent new developments in the Novi range, which Megan notes are extremely important to her vision. She said: "I’ve always wanted to do something for charity, to give something back to the world. I have vowed to donate £3.00 from the sale of each T-shirt from my new range to the WWF (World Wildlife Fund). As a small business, I can only do so much, so this is my way of doing something more." Megan’s new T-shirts are beautifully hand embroidered creations which feature several endangered animals such as turtles, pandas, elephants and penguins. Megan has a fantastic creative vision as well as a talent and passion for her work. So what’s next for Novi? Megan says: "I have so many ideas; it’s hard to keep up! I’m also working on a knitwear range for the Autumn/Winter collection. 100% wool bobble hats and knitted headbands in a variety of colours." Megan talks of producing more T-shirt designs, one to support the Mental Health Charity Mind, as well as possibly knitting some headwear, with a donation going to Children In Need.

Ultimately, however, she would love to return to her athletic and dance roots. She said: "I would

love to bring performance wear into the company. Performance can mean in terms of swim and gym wear but also terms of

dancewear. The links are there for me to transfer between the two – combining my passions."

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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Union wants Development Program

NFU Cymru has written to the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths AM to call on Welsh Government to urgently commission an independent review of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) in Wales. The Union says that only 41% of the money earmarked for the period 2014-20 has been spent after the Welsh Government collared a massive chunk of the money for its pet rural projects. The Welsh Government is now using money allocated to the RDP to bankroll its own controversial post-Brexit land management schemes. Those plans are supposedly still open for consultation, but the use of RDP money to fund planned changes suggests ministerial minds are already made up. The union states any review should include the effectiveness and value for money of the range of advice services and wider RDP projects and measures. The call comes in the light of Welsh Government’s ‘Sustainable Farming and our Land’ consultation proposals, which set out revised proposals for supporting farmers after Brexit and includes replacing the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and Glastir with a Sustainable Farming Scheme. The proposed new scheme will comprise two elements – business support with a focus on advice, capital investment and skills development and the Sustainable Farming

Rural Development Fund: Being used to push WG’s rural agenda

Jon Coles

jon.coles@herald.email Payment which will reward farmers for the delivery of mainly environmental outcomes. An adviserled approach to scheme implementation is proposed. John Davies, NFU Cymru President said: “Through the course of extensive consultation with our members it is clear the proposed replacement mechanisms which, in effect, broadly replicate measures in the current RDP or Pillar 2 do not fill farmers with confidence. “Our experience of the Welsh Government’s implementation and delivery of the current RDP has not been positive. “Up to the end of August 2019, RDP spend stands at just 41% for the

Where’s the money gone?: NFU-Cymru President John Davies demands a review

programme period 20142020. The slow rate of rollout means that Welsh farm businesses are not receiving the support promised at the time of the pillar transfer in 2013. At that time, the Welsh Government opted to

Government has picked farmers’ pockets: Llyr Gruffydd

Andrew RT Davies: ‘This money should have already been spent’

transfer the maximum funds possible from Pillar 1 to Pillar 2 – a decision unique across Europe and one that NFU Cymru was strongly opposed to. Based on Welsh Government performance, NFU Cymru’s opposition to the pillar transfer decision

has been completely vindicated. “Our members tell us opportunities to access RDP funds have been limited for farming businesses, application windows have been sporadic and often under-resourced with

applicants turned away. The application and claim process has been complex and costly with many farmers having to resort to paying advisers and consultants to assist. These are implementation issues that are all firmly under the control of the Welsh Government. “Regrettably our members’ experiences of RDP implementation severely undermine confidence in the Welsh Government’s proposals for the new scheme. 12 months ago, when responding to ‘Brexit and our Land’ proposals, we emphasised both Welsh Government and industry needed to have a high degree of confidence that proposed measures could be effective in mitigating for the shortfall left by the proposed loss of direct support. A full evaluation is

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required to understand the impact and the cost-benefit of increasing investment in such interventions. “Whilst the Welsh Government consultation provides significant analysis on the case for ending BPS, the consultation is deeply flawed in that no objective analysis has been provided on the effectiveness of the current RDP and how similar measures can deliver in the absence of BPS. This is deeply concerning. We are clear that some form of stability support is a vital component of future policy to underpin the continued production of safe, highquality food in Wales for all the benefits that provide.” Mr Davies concluded: “Under current Welsh Government proposals, the business support will be operating in the absence of BPS or any form of the stability support mechanism. Welsh Government needs to demonstrate that the new package of measures proposed can match or better what is currently achieved – namely a return of around £7.40 for every £1 invested -otherwise jobs will be lost from farming and the allied industries and our rural communities will be poorer. This is a matter of serious concern and why we have called for a comprehensive review of RDP delivery as a matter of urgency. “We encourage all farmers in Wales to have their voice heard by responding to the Welsh Government consultation which closes on October 30, 2019.” Conservative Rural

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me review Affairs spokesperson Andrew RT Davies told us: “Labour Ministers are dragging their heels on getting this vital money to the rural communities that need it, which means Welsh farm businesses are not receiving the support which was promised some time ago by the Welsh Government. “Farms are under pressure, wages stagnating and TB continues to ravage the countryside. Meanwhile, the Welsh Labour Government in Cardiff is sitting on a pot of money that could offer huge relief if administered now to those who need it. “This money should have already been spent boosting the rural economy but farmers are being limited by ridiculously short application windows and poor implementation processes, all due to the incompetence of the Welsh Labour Government which is oblivious to the needs of rural communities in Wales. “I will be seeking assurances from the Minister that she will tackle this issue as a priority and implement a deliverable timetable for administering these vital payments.” Llyr Gruffydd, Plaid’s Rural Affairs spokesperson said: “This Labour Government picked the pockets of Welsh farmers under the premise that the money would be used to maximise opportunities for rural Wales “Instead, this government is failing to spend that budget effectively and in full.” Mr Gruffydd is calling on the Senedd’s Public

Accounts Committee to investigate the way the Welsh Government has managed the RDP. The North Wales AM also wants an assurance that the RDP funds will be used in full – providing they are not allocated in a “lastminute panic” before the deadline. A Welsh Government spokesperson told The Herald: “The RDP provides much-needed investment in our environment, farming and rural communities. This includes investment in managing our ecosystems, efficient energy use and greenhouse gas reduction. “To date, Wales has drawn down 45% of our EU funding for the RDP and this is comparable with other EU Member States. At the end of 2018, the EU Member States had, on average, drawn down 42% of their funding. We have no plans to hand unspent money back to the EU. We are making good progress. At a project level, a total of £664.9m funds have been committed, representing 80% of Programme funds. Plans are in place to achieve the full commitment of the Programme by the end of 2020 and full spend by the end of the N+3 period.” The Welsh Government told us that whilst the RDP is a seven-year programme, spend takes place over ten years under the “N+3” rules. This means it can spend until 2023. The EU’s first spend target in December 2018 was €123,814,873 and the Welsh Government achieved this well ahead of schedule in November 2017.

iewpoint V with

Matthew Paul

IDENTITY CRISIS

THE GOVERNMENT has at last conceded defeat in its silly plans to introduce age checks on users of pornographic websites. It should be seen as a small victory for freedom. The plans were a mess. Age verification depended either on handing over credit card details to your friendly pornographer for verification – what could go wrong? – or, if for some reason you chose not to, going into a newsagent – presumably wearing a stained raincoat – and whispering a request for an age verification card, which would be taken from under the till and pressed into your sweating palm to tuts from old ladies in the queue behind you. This latter wheeze could only have been drafted by ministers who secretly enjoyed grubby adolescent memories of self-loathing from buying porn. But today’s consumer of pornography prefers to do it on, not in, a Mac. There was zero public enthusiasm for retro pornshaming which would, in any event, have been useless in preventing techsavvy teens from getting at online filth. Forcing people to prove their identity, whether online or in person, is alien to our political tradition. Back in

2004, one Boris Johnson thundered that the Labour Government’s plans for compulsory ID cards were 'a recipe for tyranny and oppression'. If compelled in any circumstances to produce one, he would 'take that card out of my wallet and physically eat it in the presence of whatever emanation of the state has demanded I produce it'. Boris’ appetite for this kind of tyranny and oppression must – literally – have become keener since taking office because among the 26 Bills announced in Monday’s Queen’s Speech was one hoping to compel voters to produce a photo ID before casting their ballot. At present, to vote in Britain all you need to do is go down to a polling station and point at a name on the electoral register. You don’t even have to show a polling card, let alone prove that you are the person at whose name you have pointed. Fraud and personation, in theory, are easy. Electoral fraud does of course exist. The trial of Lutfur Rahman, the slippery former Mayor of Tower Hamlets, heard evidence that 'clearly showed' in Mayoral elections in that Borough 'that there was personation and that other voting offences took place'.

There is also strong public suspicion of skulduggery around postal votes, usually involving the surmise that large families of dark-skinned people are being compelled by a belt-wielding paterfamilias to hand over great sheaves of postal ballot papers in support of some reptile like Rahman. This doesn’t mean it happens much. Polling booth fraud of any particular scale is impracticable. Making repeated trips into a polling station wearing a Groucho Marx moustache and the overcoat you were saving up for trips to the newsagent will get you quite rapidly nicked. Even the postal voting is pretty clean: a trial of entirely postal votes by 35 local authorities in 2003’s local elections saw turnout in some areas double, with no evidence of an increase in voter fraud. There is no empirical evidence to suggest that voter ID fraud is a serious problem. The judge in Lutfur Rahman’s trial went on to question how widespread personation was; certainly, nowhere near enough to account for Rahman’s large majority as Mayor, which was got by the more effective expedients of bribing and ‘spiritually intimidating’ electors.

Following the 2017 General Election, only one person was convicted of the offence of personation (eight more were cautioned). Political parties stand tellers at polling stations to keep an eye out for subterfuge by their opponents. Although very old-tech and loosely controlled, the integrity of the voting system in the UK has never been seriously in doubt. So why is Boris scrapping one pointless requirement to prove identity, but wasting time that could be spent ‘getting Brexit done’ on introducing costly measures to deal with the non-problem of voter fraud? His suggested reform of the voting system certainly won’t be in place before the next General Election. He can’t get anything –including, most probably, a Brexit deal– through Parliament without a majority. None of that stopped the Labour Party from bellowing its objections to the proposed reform. Jeremy Corbyn moaned that poorer voters and ethnic minorities, who tend towards supporting Labour, were disproportionately represented amongst the 3.5 million potential electors who have neither passport nor driving licence. In Corbyn’s paranoid world view, this was a measure intended only to suppress the Labour vote.

Paranoia about the measure from Labour is hard to justify. In a pilot earlier this year, a statistically insignificant 0.4% of voters were turned away from the polling booths for want of ID. Most people who didn’t vote told researchers, somewhat implausibly, that while available to chat to pollsters they were too busy to spend thirty seconds in a polling booth. 9% were away on holiday, and 6% forgot there was an election. In any event, for voters who don’t have a passport or driver’s licence, ID – as the Reverend Dr Ian Paisley once commented about teeth– will be provided. Local authorities will assume the presumably rather expensive burden of producing a suitable card for production at the polls. Monday’s Queen’s Speech was exceptional in that everyone present, Her Majesty included, knew there is not a cat in Hell’s chance of any of the measures she announced becoming law under this Government. Corbyn denounced the whole thing as a party election broadcast. Unusually, the Lenincapped loon is perfectly right. He just seems not to have noticed that in putting himself on the side of corrupt electoral practices, he has picked up Dominic Cummings’ script and stepped right in front of the camera.

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Plaid Platform Celtic Manor dinner will raise £100k for children With Helen Mary Jones

This week we’ve seen elected representatives from Catalonia jailed for merely asking the people whether they believed their nation should be independent or not. I was proud to join a cross-party group of elected members and staff on the Senedd steps to stand in solidarity with Catalonian politicians. It is distressing to witness the extraordinarily long prison sentences given to Catalan political prisoners. They were the political leaders of the campaign for Catalan independence, but their movement was driven by ordinary Catalans who voted for independence in their millions. On a happier note, I was pleased to highlight the good work done by hospices during Hospice Care Week in the Senedd. It was particularly good to welcome Pembrokeshire based charity Paul Sartori Foundation to the Senedd. The theme this year is ‘This is what it takes’ to celebrate the valuable work of hospices in Wales, last year charitable hospices provided help, support and care to over 11,400 adults in Wales. There is also the difference they make not only for people with life-limiting conditions but also for their carers and families every year. I would also like to celebrate the work of the 3,500 volunteers for their local hospices in Wales in 2018. There were eight stalls at the event: City Hospice, Cruse Cymru Bereavement Support, Paul Sartori Foundation, Ty Hafan, Marie Curie, Skanda Vale, Hospice of the Valleys and Hope House/Ty Gobaith. Thank you to everyone who attended. On Monday the Conservative Westminster Government unveiled its

legislative programme, called the Queen’s Speech. There is a contradiction between outlining a year-long programme of legislation while at the same time the Prime Minister has demanded an immediate Westminster election. Plaid Cymru has called for a Final Say Referendum Bill. With Parliament in deadlock, legislation is required to take the decision on whether or not to leave the European Union, knowing what we know now, back to the people. In our MPs alternative legislative agenda, the Party of Wales called for bills to equalise geographic inequality across the UK and create an Office for Fair Funding. This would include a package of measures to help women affected by the State Pension Age increase, and proposals to ensure agricultural support is not cut. In my Mid and West region, the House of Commons library estimates the unfair changes to the state pension age impacts on 41,600 women born in the 1950s. These women worked hard, paid their taxes and made their plans for retirement but have had their lives totally disrupted as a result of UK Government actions. Plaid Cymru would introduce a Bill establishing a review into State Pension Age changes in order to award compensation to the women for their losses. My Plaid Cymru colleague Ceredigion MP Ben Lake has been a powerful advocate for the WASPI women in the House of Commons. Plaid Cymru is offering up solutions while Westminster continues to ignore Wales. That is why we need the powers to do the job ourselves.

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Star-studded event: Ian Gough and Carol Vorderman

BROADCASTER and writer Carol Vorderman MBE will host the inaugural National Children of Wales Awards. The star-studded event scheduled for April 3, 2020, will celebrate the inspirational achievements of children across Wales. The National Children of Wales Awards have been founded and launched by Blanche Sainsbury, chair of Bluestone National Park Resort, and the Bluestone Foundation, the company’s charitable foundation. The awards will culminate in a gala dinner at the Celtic Manor on April 3, 2020, hosted by Carol Vorderman MBE and Welsh rugby legend Ian Gough. The organisers aim to raise £100,000 at the event, which will be distributed to charities in Wales dedicated to helping children. The Teenage Cancer Trust, Dreams & Wishes and the National Society for the Prevention

of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) will all benefit from the event as will the Bluestone Foundation. The Bluestone Foundation works with many local charities in Pembrokeshire while Bluestone National Park Resort has for many years aided charities including Dreams & Wishes, which helps seriously and terminally ill children enjoy precious holiday time with their families. The prestigious event will feature male voice choir Only Men Aloud, the winners of the BBC talent show Last Choir Standing; Welsh choir Angelica Celtis, a choir of schoolgirls who reached the semi-final of Britain’s Got Talent in 2017; and feature performances from Motionhouse, a world-class dance-circus production company. Blanche Sainsbury, chair of Bluestone National Park Resort and founder of the National

Children of Wales Awards, said: “Our aim is to shine a light on both the brave children of Wales, who overcome challenges every day, as well as some of the amazingly talented young people we have in this country. We want to recognise those who never give up, never stop trying – inspiring those around them in the process. “The National Children of Wales Awards promises to be an unforgettable and inspirational evening from start to finish in the incredible venue of the Celtic Manor. Some 700 guests will help us celebrate the bravery and incredible stories of young people from across Wales – sharing their stories and achievements. “It will also be a glamorous and star-studded night with a number of high-profile Welsh sports stars attending, and many celebrities and special guests playing important

roles during the evening. But we also need the support of businesses to make this a reality. I would encourage individuals and companies that want to get involved in what will be a remarkable evening, to visit our website.” Pamela McNamara, founder of the Bluestone Foundation, said: “The Bluestone Foundation was established to help people to help themselves through environmental, economic and social projects in Pembrokeshire, underpinning the ethos of Bluestone National Park Resort. Our association with the National Children of Wales Awards is a fantastic opportunity to take our work to a new level by recognising the inspirational achievements of children from across Wales while working with the business community to raise further funds to help those in need.” Carol Vorderman MBE said: “I am delighted to

be involved in the first National Children of Wales Awards. Special events such as this are so important to shine a light on the incredible stories of courage demonstrated by young people across Wales. I am looking forward to meeting these inspirational young people and I would encourage the people of Wales to nominate those who deserve recognition. We promise to offer them a truly amazing experience on a truly special night.” Ian Gough said: “It's an absolute honour to be involved with the National Children of Wales Awards. To be part of the recognition and rewarding of these remarkable young people as well as raising substantial amounts for some great causes is truly humbling for me. These awards will go from strength to strength and I'm sure will be the pride of the annual Welsh events calendar.”

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Lucky pup escapes injury after cliff fall Torys top attendance poll A DOG was found barking up a tree when it was caught in branches during a cliff fall but the tree, on the cliff at Swallow Tree caravan park, near Saundersfoot, broke the fall of the lucky animal who was then swiftly rescued by coastguards. Tenby's RNLI lifeboat was alerted to the situation and launched at 9:35 am on Tuesday (Oct15) after the coastguard received a call from a member of the public saying that their pet dog had fallen over the cliff. The volunteer crew arrived quickly at the scene and found the owner of the dog on the beach watching in horror as their dog was stranded halfway up the cliff, stuck in a tree. Due to the height of the incident, the crew stood by to provide safety cover while Tenby and St Govans coastguard rescue teams set up their equipment and sent a technician down the cliff to retrieve the dog, who

had escaped any injury. Posting on Facebook, HM Coastguard Tenby said: "It was initially decided that a coastguard cliff technician would rescue the dog from its position on the cliff and there be lowered into the waiting ILB. The cliff technician was lowered into position and managed to place the dog into a rescue bag for recovery. Due to the canopy of trees, the original plan had to be amended and the coastguard officer and dog were recovered back to the clifftop. The dog was reunited with its worried owner, none the worse for wear." The relieved owner has since thanked everyone involved for their quick response in rescuing her beloved pet before all the rescue teams were stood down. Lucky pup: Dog is saved from a cliff by RNLI as owner watches in horror below

COUNCILLOR attendance figures for 2018/19 have just been released by Pembrokeshire County Council. The data shows that the Conservative group have got the best attendance figures with an average attendance of 93.18%. The IPPG group achieved 89.46%, Labour 86.7%, Unaffiliated Councillors achieved 84.95% and Plaid 82.17%. Looking at members that achieved 100% attendance, 27.3% of the Conservative Group attended all meetings they were scheduled to, the IPPG group achieved

30.8%, Labour achieved 14.3%, and Unaffiliated 23.8%. No Plaid members attended 100% of meetings. Overall 14 members achieved 100% attendance at meetings. The lowest attendance by a member, discounting those on sick leave, was 61%. Looking at individual member committee attendance, the figures are based on a year's data from 18 different committees, 1 Plaid member attended 10 different committees throughout the year and a Conservative member 9 different committees. The lowest number of different committees attended by a member

was 3, this data includes both Annual and Full Council meetings. The more varied committees a Councillor attends, the greater their knowledge becomes. Conservative County Councillor Mark Carter summarised: " What this data clearly shows is that the Conservative group is working together as a team to ensure that all committee seats are filled and if a member is unavailable then wherever possible a stand in a member is provided. This cannot be done by unaffiliated members nor on Licencing or Planning Committees."

Paul Potts to perform with special guests

Potts trots to Pembrokeshire: BGT star to entertain Pembrokeshire crowd for a charity event

BRITAIN'S GOT Talent star, Paul Potts, will be joined by Pembrokeshire artistes Bella Voce and Talfan Jenkins at a charity concert this weekend where all three will perform to those who purchased tickets. The Rotary Club of Narberth and Whitland is organising the event this

Saturday (Oct 19) at the Follies Theatre, Folly Farm and all proceeds from the concert will be donated to Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, Rotaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s End Polio Now appeal, Treat Trust Wales Rehabilitation Centre at Morriston Hospital and other Rotary charities supported by the club. The concertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main

sponsors are Rob and Mandy Scourfield, teams of the Carew Inn, Tudor Lodge, Mark White and colleagues of Ocky White Travel in Haverfordwest, along with Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, which are providing the magnificent venue for the evening. Few tickets remain

for the concert and the remaining few can be bought online at www. nwrotary.co.uk or from Paul Sartori on 01437 763223 for collection on the door. The last of the tickets will be available for purchase at the door, where card payments can be made.

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House prices in west Wales

L E N D E R Principality’s House Price Index will be released next week, the headlines from the report are: The average house price in Carmarthenshire is £166,769. This is a rise of 0.6% in the last three months (July – September). The average house price in Ceredigion is £204,404 which is a fall of 3.9% in the last three months (July- September) The average house price in Pembrokeshire is £207,561. This is a rise

of 3.8% in the last three months (July – September). The average house price in Wales is £191,006. Wales continues to buck the trend seen across England as the average house price in Wales has climbed to reach a record peak. In terms of housing sales when comparing Q3 2019 and Q3 2018, the number of sales also increased by 5.6% in Wales, suggesting people in Wales aren’t being put off by uncertainty around Brexit when buying a home.

‘Man o’ war’ creatures wash up on our shores PEMBROKESHIRE residents are being warned to be careful on beaches after sightings of stinging jellyfish. 'Atlantic Portuguese man of war' have been washed up in Freshwater East and West, Newgale, Amroth and Angle in Pembrokeshire and the coastguard are requesting any sightings to be reported to them immediately. The creatures, which resemble jellyfish but are a species of siphonophore, cause painful stings if people come in contact with their tentacles. Similar sightings have been reported on beaches in Cornwall and Ireland and it is thought that the recent Storm Lorenzo has brought more of the Man o’ war on Pembrokeshire coasts: Jellyfish-like creatures washed up on creatures to the Welsh Pembrokeshire shores amidst Hurricane Lorenzo aftermath • Pic by Darren Harries waters. monitoring numbers at far and Pembrokeshire to walk barefoot on the Freshwater East Freshwater beach, said Coast National Park has beach and to keep pets Coast Care Group, they had collected about since warned people away. which has been 60 of the creatures so not to touch them, not A spokesperson for

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park said: "If you or your dog are stung and experience severe or lasting pain seek medical or veterinary advice immediately.” According to National Geographic, the creatures, whose scientific name is Physalia Physalis, look like jellyfish but are not classed as such because what looks like one organism is a colony of organisms, known as polyps, working together. True jellyfish are single organisms and the 'man o' war' are carnivorous invertebrates and have a gas-filled bladder which floats above the water, and tentacles which deliver their sting. The tentacles can grow up to 165ft (50m) in length so caution is advised if one is spotted at your local beach.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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Remarkable talent in the travel industry

THE 2019 Revolut everywoman in Travel Awards finalists were announced on Thursday (Oct 10). From young apprentices starting their career journey to wellestablished entrepreneurs inspiring other ambitious individuals to join the industry, the 33 finalists are the role models whose success stories will encourage the next generation of travel stars. Paula Ellis from St David’s Pembrokeshire is a finalist in the Revolut everywoman in Travel Awards. The global travel and tourism sector is considered to be among the world’s largest economic activities and The World Travel and Tourism Council claim that in 2018 travel and tourism contributed $8.8 trillion to the global economy, providing 319 million jobs within the sector. In the United Kingdom, the hospitality, travel and leisure sector is the thirdlargest private sector employer in the country,

Finalist: Paula Ellis providing employment for 3.2 million people and this vast opportunity the industry presents for employment has resulted in almost twice as many female employers in travel and tourism than other sectors offering women opportunities in leadership and entrepreneurship. The 2019 Revolut everywoman in Travel Awards programme is vital in recognising the

achievements of females and males within the sector who are making significant contributions to reach these targets and promote young talent to strive to success. This year’s finalists were hand-selected by the industry’s most discerning leaders including: Rhiannon Dowdall, Head of CRS Programme at Heathrow; Pippa Jacks, Group Editor at TTG

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Media; Rachel Temperton, Head of Travel & Tourism for Allianz Partners; Clare Tobin, Chief Executive, Olympic Holidays, Jo Rzymowska, Vice President & Managing Director at Celebrity Cruises, to name a few. Winners will be announced at a ceremony held at East Wintergarden, located between the iconic towers of Canary Wharf in London on 13 November 2019. Aside from category winners, an extraordinary Woman of the Year, whose success makes her an exceptional role model and industry ambassador, will also be announced. A new category has been introduced for 2019,

called the Disruptor Award, looking for a woman who is challenging issues in the industry in a creative, unconventional and pioneering way. The 2019 Revolut everywoman in Travel Awards category Leader of Change Award follows: Komal Tekchandani, Head of IT Business Change at Heathrow from London Lisa Henning, Chief Operating Officer at The Travel Network Group from Woking Lorraine Quinn, Head of Sales, Ireland at Celebrity Cruises UK from Dublin Paula Ellis, Group General Manager at Retreats Group Ltd from St. David’s Karen Gill MBE, CoFounder of everywoman, comments: “This year’s finalists represent the talented men and women passionate and determined to achieve gender equality within the travel industry. We are excited about these incredible role models to aspire the next generation of talent in the sector and continue to promote the importance of the everywoman in Travel Awards. It’s clear that the travel industry is moving in the right director to achieve gender equality, but there is still a way to go”

Community event in Narberth COMMUNITY engagement event in Narberth will be held to discuss household waste and recycling changes, active travel plans and new multi user route from Narberth to Haverfordwest. A part of the roll out of information about the Household Waste and Recycling Changes, Pembrokeshire County Council will have information and advice for residents. It is a chance to find out about: Reusable Nappy Scheme, Absorbent Hygiene Product collections (AHP’s), availability of assisted collections, Kerbside Sort – new method and new containers, additional recyclable household items, text alerts for collection days. There will also be plans on a show of the current active travel routes in Narberth and residents will be able to discuss and comment on how they work for the town and how they could be improved whilst planning for the future. An officer from Sustrans, the Sustainable Transport Charity, will also demonstrate what has been done so far with the multi user route from Narberth to Haverfordwest and what plans there are for the future. Cllr. Vic Dennis said:

“All 3 of these pieces of work are part of the local efforts to reduce carbon and improve our environment, along with helping us to access and enjoy our environment. I am delighted that we have staff from County Hall here to advise and answer questions as well as listen to local people. The rollout for the new recycling and waste collection is planned for 4 November so it will be very timely to have this information available before then. Join us in the Sports Hall at Bloomfield Community Centre, Narberth on Wednesday (Oct 23) between 1-4 pm. I hope that residents from the surrounding area will also take the opportunity to join us to find out more.” This is a part of a wide information campaign so look out for further information in the press, on social media and the website at www. pembrokeshire.gov.uk/ waste-changes

South Hook LNG celebrates efforts of its people

THE SOUTH Hook LNG Staff Participation Programme continues to support the many volunteers and fundraisers across the Company, committed to raising much needed funds for their chosen community groups. Fourteen community organisations across Pembrokeshire have recently benefitted from the Company’s scheme. Community groups, including sports clubs, charities and schools’ Friends Associations, have received match funding as individuals working at the Terminal willingly gave up their evenings and weekends, either volunteering or fundraising for a cause close to their hearts. Mariam Dalziel, South Hook LNG PR Manager said, “Our volunteers gave up an impressive 420 hours

A team of willing volunteers from South Hook LNG: Took on the challenge of painting the main hall at the Pill Social Centre in Milford Haven of their free time last year C o m m u n i t y Haverfordwest Town and money raised through organisations that received Council, as well as a the Company’s match support following efforts number of local rugby, funding, has contributed of South Hook LNG’s football and golf clubs. Ty to everything from safety community volunteers, Hafan, Cancer Research and sports equipment to include Cleddau UK, Mind Pembrokeshire RNLI Pembroke fundraising and wellbeing Reach School PFA and and events. We are very proud Templeton School PTA, Ladies Lifeboat Guild, of all our volunteers and Wiseman’s Bridge Rowing also received funds, due to fundraisers, dedicating Club, Pembrokeshire match funding activities, so much time to so many Yacht Club, Neptune’s successfully undertaken by of Rubbish the Company’s fundraisers. worthwhile causes across Army Collectors (NARC) and our county.”

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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New NRW Chair confirmed

ON TUESDAY, October 8, Lesley Griffiths, Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, confirmed Sir David’s Henshaw’s appointment as Chair of Natural Resources Wales. Sir David Henshaw is NRW’s interim chair and has been in that position since 1 November 2018. Sir David will take up the role of Chair of NRW on November 1, 2019. His predecessor, Diane McCrea, left NRW following a string of scandals regarding timber contract awards. A period which included the body ignoring direct advice from the Wales Audit Office regarding its timber business and receiving qualified accounts for three consecutive years. NRW is the largest Welsh Government socalled ‘Sponsored Body’ and employs 1,900 staff across Wales with a budget of £180 million. Sir David Henshaw

was the Chief Executive of Liverpool City Council, from 1998 to 2005. His departure from that role was shrouded in controversy. He resigned after a row over the Council’s plan to offer him the same sort of sweetheart pension deal which claimed the scalp of Pembrokeshire’s former CEO Bryn Parry Jones and given to the former Carmarthen CEO Mark James before the Wales Audit Office ruled it unlawful. From there he undertook an investigation into administrative problems at the Child Support Agency. His investigation made a series of sweeping recommendations for reform of the Agency, which was – by then – unfit for purpose. The functions of the CSA were eventually re-absorbed into the DWP. Sir David’s next jobs were at the troubled Alder Hey Children’s

NHS Foundation Trust before moving to the scandal-hit University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation. His next move was to the poorly-performing Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust, at which the Director of Nursing had recently quit after only three months’ in the post, closely followed by the departure of the Trust’s Chair and Chief Executive. Sir David subsequently chaired St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in London, which was beset by financial problems and placed in special measures. During his period in charge, Border Force officers were stationed in the hospital to check patients’ papers and discourage ‘health tourism’. With a record of troubleshooting appointments, the NRW position should be no surprise to Sir David.

However, criticism of his appointment came from some who questioned why no Welsh candidate, let alone a Welsh-speaker, was ever in the frame for the hot seat. Confirming Sir David’s appointment, Lesley Griffiths said: “I am pleased to confirm Sir David’s appointment as chair of NRW. Sir David has a proven track record in providing strong Board-level leadership and transformation. His appointment will enable the organisation to continue to build on the good progress made since his appointment as interim chair.” Sir David Henshaw, Chair of NRW, said: “I am delighted to be appointed the chair of NRW. When I took on the role of interim chair in November 2018, I intended to help the organisation rebuild from some of its challenges and then hand over to a successor. But that changed when I got to

know the organisation better. “The passion, commitment and expertise of staff; the importance of the role we can play in tackling climate and environment emergencies; and a deeper appreciation of our successes and our ability to improve Wales’ present and future. These are compelling reasons why I wanted to stay for longer. There is still much work to do, but I’m looking forward to continuing the job I’ve started, leading the board in supporting the chief executive and her team in building NRW’s success.” Clare Pillman, chief executive of NRW, said: “I am very pleased that Sir David will continue as our chair, working with us to take our organisation forward. “His steadfast support for the staff of this organisation has been unwavering. His leadership over the last 12

Sir David Henshaw: NHS troubleshooter takes NRW Chair its potential.” months has helped us not A pre-appointment only steady the ship, but hearing by the National to start to steer a course Assembly’s Climate towards a successful Change, Environment and future and I’m looking Rural Affairs Committee forward to continuing to endorsed the appointment. work with him to help the organisation fully achieve

Crabb slams Barclays Post Office cash opt-out Crocodiles comng to Folly Farm

Snapped up by Folly Farm: New exhibit as Folly Farm brings pair of extraordinary crocodiles to Wales

PRESELI MP Stephen Crabb has criticised Barclays Bank’s ‘short-sighted’ decision not to allow its customers to withdraw cash from Post Office counters. A new agreement has seen 28 banks and building societies sign up with the Post Office for three years from January. The agreement will see postmaster paid more to take in and dispense cash

on behalf of these banks. However, Barclays is the only bank to exclude cash withdrawal as part of the agreement. Government ministers have been urging the banks to make greater use of the Post Office network so that bank customers will still be able to save and withdraw cash following a large number of bank branch closures. Preseli MP Stephen Crabb, who has spoken out

against bank closures and the shortage of free ATMs, said: “This is another slap in the face from Barclays for its own customers. The Post Office has become essential to high street banking as banks have closed their doors, taking with them free ATMs. To not allow Barclays customers to withdraw money from the Post Office is a short-sighted decision, which will likely result in Barclays customers paying

to take their own money out. Earlier this year I spoke in Parliament about the drive towards a ‘cashless society’ which goes against the needs of rural communities. I have now written to the Treasury Minister to ask him to challenge this decision by Barclays.” Barclays customers currently make 1.2 million cash withdrawal from the Post Office each month.

A PAIR of crocodiles is set to join the Folly Farm family and be shown off in a new enclosure. The West African Dwarf crocodiles will take their place in the Tropical Trails exhibit next February. The fascinating reptiles are classified as vulnerable due to being hunted for their meat and having their habitats destroyed. The crocs are labelled as 'dwarf' in name only, as both are over five foot long

at 29 years old. Folly Farm is re-homing them from Drayton Manor Park, their home for several years, as it is currently renovating its crocodile enclosures. The female of the duo was caught in the wild as part of the illegal pet trade and seized by customs whilst her male companion was captive-bred at Barcelona Zoo. The two crocs will join sloths, bats and snakes in the Tropical Trails enclosure. Folly Farm's zoo

curator, Tim Morphew, said: “Tropical Trails seeks to highlight the issues of habitat destruction and the illegal pet trade, so these new additions will be a flagship species for the conservation messages we’re trying to deliver. We’re designing the enclosure to replicate the swampy, forest habitats in Africa with plenty of glass viewing windows so our visitors will get a good view of these powerful creatures.”

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Defective tyre results in points

A 50-YEAROLD man appeared before magistrates at Haverfordwest Law Court on Tuesday (Oct 15) to face a charge of driving a vehicle with the ply/cord exposed. Richard Pugh of Tower View, Marloes, pleaded guilty to the charge. Pugh told the court: "I had to stop working due to my disability. The car belonged to my father and he had a fall so I took on the car. I paid for the tax and insurance and I paid for the wheels. "I hadn't planned to drive it that day, but I had

chest pains that morning and I phoned the doctor. The doctor told her that due to the description I gave I would need to be seen, but they couldn't send someone out to me. "Normally I wouldn't use the car, and I knew that one tyre was beginning to wear. There was a very small strip that had slipped my attention. I had new tyres fitted within two days." Magistrates fined Pugh £80 for the offence and ordered him to pay £85 prosecution costs and £32 victim surcharge. His licence was also endorsed with three penalty points.

Heroin possession results in court A WOMAN from Haverfordwest appeared before the town's magistrates on Tuesday (Oct 15) to face a charge of possession of heroin. Anne Marie Daley of Scotchwell View pleaded guilty to having 0.5g of heroin. Prosecutor, Vaughan Pritchard-Jones said: "This lady was subject to a stop and search on April 6. She was asked if she had any drugs and produced a wrap from her back pocket."

Defence solicitor, Jonothan Webb, said: "Daley pleads guilty at the first opportunity and should be awarded full credit. She has had a drug issue but voluntarily referred herself for treatment. She has prescribed an opiate substitute and has shown progress." Magistrates fined Daley £120 for the offence and ordered her to pay £85 prosecution costs and £30 victim surcharge. A destruction order was also made for the drugs.

NEWS

Welsh Water welcomes ‘Golden Ticket’ winners

CUSTOMERS from across Wales and Herefordshire were given a behind-the-scenes peek into how their water company works as part of a competition. Nearly 20 customers took part after entering a 'Golden Ticket' competition to be given an access-all-areas tour of Welsh Water's sites, as part of National Customer Service Week. Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water is the only not-forprofit water company in Wales and England, serving around three million customers across most of Wales, Herefordshire and parts of Cheshire. A group toured sites in South Wales and learned about water treatment processes during their tour of Llandegfedd Reservoir, wastewater treatment at Cardiff Wastewater Treatment Works, and the work the company does to ensure the best possible water quality at our laboratories in Glaslyn, Newport. Customers also had

Access-all-areas: The Welsh Water Tour the chance during lunch customers were taken to question the company's to Welsh Water's water Chief Executive, Chris treatment works and Jones, as well as the laboratories in Bretton, Managing Director of near Chester, before going Household Customers, on to visit the wastewater Samantha James, and treatment works in Mold. The tours were part of Managing Director, Peter Perry, who will take up the the company's activities Chief Executive position around National Customer in April 2020 when Mr Service Week, which is Jones retires after more an opportunity to raise awareness of customer than six years in the post. Another group of service and the vital role

it plays in successful business practice and the growth of the UK economy. Among the feedback received from the customers – which included a toxicologist, a PhD student and a research chemist, was: “What a brilliant and enjoyable day, I am very impressed.” The company also held an 'Ask the Customer'

live chat session - with Welsh Water staff posing questions to customers to get their views on how the company could build on their customer service offering in future. Director of Customer Strategy and Communications, Alun Shurmer, said: "These events are invaluable to Welsh Water to ensure we're providing customers with the customer service they want and need. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do – so how we deliver customer service is crucial for us realising our company vision of earning their trust, with everything we do. By opening up our sites and showing customers how much work goes into providing them with clean, safe drinking water and cleaning their wastewater - and by getting their feedback on how we should be working together with them - we go some way to ensuring we're working for their benefit."

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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Social Enterprise in Pembrokeshire – Where are we now?

Hosting the event: The Picton Centre PEMBROKECentre in Haverfordwest SHIRE’S Social and it is open to anyone Enterprises will who has an interest in the be celebrating on Social Enterprise Sector or Wednesday 30 October would like to learn more at a free event organised about what it is they do. by Pembrokeshire Social Enterprises Association of Voluntary differ from other forms Services’ Catalyst of business in that any Project. profits made through The event is held trading in goods and from 2-5 pm at the Picton services are reinvested

back into the enterprise to drive its social, economic or environmental aims. The Welsh Government’s ‘Social Services and Well-Being Act 2014’ emphasizes local businesses delivering health and wellbeing services such as befriending, shopping and gardening to name just a

few. They see the Social Enterprise model with its emphasis on social aims and reinvestment of profits, as an equal partner to more traditional business models and County Councils have been encouraged to assist Enterprises to tender for Public Service Contracts which deliver local services. As well as being a celebratory event there will be an update from the Procurement Team at Pembrokeshire County Council who will show how they can help guide Enterprises through the Tender Process. Mariam Dalziel, Public Relations Manager at

South Hook LNG will share her experience in Public Relations engagement, tips for the best ways for businesses to communicate and build a good reputation, and how to engage and work effectively with the Press and Social Media. Enterprises will have an opportunity through a brief ‘around the table’ consultation to inform PAVS on what they require in terms of support and how PAVS can best assist them in their development. Liz Cook, PAVS’ Social Enterprise Catalyst explains “Here at PAVS we are looking forward to the first networking and information event organised by ourselves for Pembrokeshire’s Social Enterprises for many years. Pembrokeshire has nearly 30 Social Enterprises delivering successful services and offering employment and training or day opportunities to those furthest from traditional routes open to others, thereby fulfilling their social aims. Hopefully, this event will encourage others to engage with the Catalyst project being run at PAVS and we can assist potential new Social Enterprises with their development” If you’d like to know more about the event or book a place on it then please contact Liz Cook on liz.cook@pavs.org.uk or telephone 01437 769422. Alternatively, email the PAVS Development Team on development@pavs. org.uk

Locals asked for their views

ESTYN has launched a survey to ask residents in Pembrokeshire for their views on how well education services provided by the council supports schools and youth services. The survey asks parents, carers, learners and anyone working or involved in education to help inspectors judge how effective the education services are at ensuring young people receive the education they are entitled to. Meilyr Rowlands, Chief Inspector, says, “Local views from those involved with schools and youth services are vital to help give a picture on

how well the council is performing. Inspectors will be considering how well the education services help pupils to achieve, support those who are vulnerable or have particular needs and provide youth support services for those aged 1125.” The survey is part of the new inspection framework for local government education services in Wales. Results from the survey will be used to inform the inspection of Pembrokeshire which begins in December. https://www.estyn. gov.w a le s /i nspect i onsurvey-pembrokeshire The survey is open until 11 November 2019.

Welsh Labour

with Joyce Watson

FEW WHO saw BBC Wales’ recent investigation into Welsh puppy farms could fail to be disgusted by the callous disregard for animal welfare which was secretly filmed at licensed puppy farms in west Wales. I was first horrified, then furious. I wrote to the two councils involved, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, then also to Pembrokeshire and others across my Mid and West region, to find out why services had failed to tackle cases of animal cruelty at the premises of licensed breeders. The responses I have received so far, listing the range of actions they had taken, led me to believe that services are stretched and almost overwhelmed by the challenge of regulating puppy farms to a good standard. The day after the broadcast I raised this matter with Welsh Government ministers. The Minister for the Environment agreed to write to the expert body, the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework group, to request an urgent and immediate review of dog breeding regulations. I have also been promised a further ministerial meeting to take the matter forward. I have been in contact with animal welfare groups, supporters and refuges to hear their stories and to work to address their concerns. I will be pursuing this further – animals do not have a voice to speak for themselves, so we must act on their behalf. I have called for a moratorium on licensing new puppy farms in Wales and I have opposed the application for a new puppy farm near Newcastle Emlyn in Ceredigion. I am calling for an increased ratio of kennel

workers to dogs from the current 1:20 adult dogs. How can one worker care properly for 20 adults and their litters? With the best will in the world, how can that worker spot every health issue and prepare those puppies for family life? Similarly, I am campaigning to reduce the numbers of dogs in any breeding establishment, which would raise standards and limit potential profits. Finally, I want to see laws that punish the perpetrators and protect the animals. The current maximum sentence for animal cruelty is just six months. The badger baiters caught by a previous BBC Wales investigation were seen laughing as they left court earlier this month. They received light sentences despite multiple previous offences. The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill, which could raise the maximum sentence to five years in prison, was one of several which fell due to the Prime Minister’s recent prorogation of parliament. The bill is back in the Queen’s Speech, and I will be following its progress closely. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous people are willing to exploit our love for animals, and we can all play our part to change this. With the annual increase in puppy sales ahead of Christmas coming up, there are steps we can take. If you are considering buying a puppy as a Christmas present I would urge you to a) thoroughly research any providers and check that their stories add up; b) consider getting a rescue dog, and c) think about whether you will be able to give a dog a good home in the long term. Two familiar observations to end with - a) if an offer looks too good to be true then it probably is, and b) a dog is for life not just for Christmas. Lecture over!

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THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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Consultation launched PEMBROKESHIRE County Council is consulting on its council tax reduction scheme, which remains unchanged from the last financial year. The Council is required to seek the public’s views as the current scheme will come to an end in March 2020. The scheme is a national one, proposed by the Welsh Government, which has to be adopted by all local authorities in Wales. The Welsh Government has frozen the amount of money that it will pay to local authorities to help support schemes between April 2020 and March 2021. Those eligible for a council tax reduction will continue to receive financial assistance at a maximum level of 100% The scheme

includes proposals from Pembrokeshire County Council on the backdating of benefit, extending benefit payments, the exclusion of war widow and war disablement pensions from calculations and the annual uprating of social security benefits, personal allowances, premiums and nondependant deductions. You can give your views by completing the response form available at www.pembrokeshire. gov.uk/haveyoursay Alternatively please telephone the Customer Contact Centre on 01437 764551 to request a hard copy to be posted to you. The closing date for responses is Friday 1 November 2019. For further information, please contact Anna Wilson, Press and PR Officer on 01437 775855.

Joyce and Eluned backing votes for 16 and 17-year-olds

MID AND WEST Wales Assembly Members Joyce Watson and Eluned Morgan joined Welsh Labour colleagues in supporting the lowering of the voting age to 16 in elections to the National Assembly for Wales. The proposals will mean that in the next elections to the Senedd in 2021, the franchise will be extended to 16 and 17 years olds. The Assembly Members also voted to allow foreign nationals residing legally in Wales to vote in assembly elections. Joyce Watson AM said: “I am delighted that 16 and 17-year-olds across Wales will have a say on who represents

them in the Senedd. Welsh Labour have been campaigning on this issue for a long time and I have always thought it would widen participation and give a voice to young people in the decisions which affect them.” Eluned Morgan AM said: “I am very pleased to support this legislation. Young people want to have a say in their future and by extending the voting age, the Welsh Labour Government is delivering on another election promise. I believe it is also important that people from other countries who are legally resident here in Wales can have their say in outward-looking Wales we are building together.”

NEWS

Elly’s appeal helps child patients

EARLIER this year Elly’s Ward 10 Appeal wrote to Hasbro Gaming asking for support towards the campaign’s local fundraising. In 2015, at just 5 ½ years old, Elly Neville won first prize in a school competition for her collage of the Pembrokeshire Flag. Elly and her family decided to raffle the flag to raise funds to support the planned refurbishment and upgrade of facilities for cancer patients at Ward 10, Withybush General Hospital, Haverfordwest. The flag was raffled and exceeded its income target, raising £500 in the process – this is where Elly’s real passion for fundraising began. In November 2015, with the help of her parents, Elly’s Ward 10 Flag Appeal was created. Over the last four years, Elly’s Appeal has received support from far and wide. Elly’s Ward 10 Flag Appeal has now raised over £208,000 towards the refurbishment of Withybush Hospital’s cancer treatment ward. When the Appeal wrote to Hasbro, it hoped for a few games and toys to raise money for that appeal. H o w e v e r , Hasbro’s response was overwhelming. Hasbro very kindly offered Elly to donate toys and games to our local children’s services and with support from Hywel Dda Health Charities it happened – Hasbro have donated 174 games to be distributed across all Hywel Dda Health Board sites. Sandra Jones, Play Service Manager, said: “As Play Service Manager within the Women and Children’s Directorate, I would like to thank Elly’s Ward 10 Flag Appeal and Hasbro Gaming for the donation of games and toys. Children and young people visiting or admitted to the Puffin Unit at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, Cilgerran Ward at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen and Angharad Ward at Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth will benefit from such a very generous donation. The vast array of games and toys will

Hasbro’s generosity: Helps Elly deliver games and toys for the whole of Hywel Dda beds. “We are delighted the Cilgerran Ward based also be shared with “So many children and mobile unit is a natural fit at Glangwili Hospital Speech and Language, is the largest children’s young people will greatly to such an incredibly busy Physiotherapists and ward in west Wales. benefit from this donation department and will help many other Community to provide the children Patients on Cilgerran which will not only help staff within the Hywel with a much-needed Ward are children and our patients interact and Dda University Health distraction by providing young people aged 0-16 socialise whilst recovering Board. The donation will hours of creative fun.” years (young people with in hospital but will also be enable us to provide the Elly said, “I am really an invaluable distraction additional needs – up extras that make a stay in happy that we have been from their medical to 18 years) who live in or a visit to the hospital able to help children. condition, treatment Carmarthenshire and the a more positive patient I love helping to raise and pain. The unit will neighbouring counties experience and I would money for Cancer Patients enable us to provide an of Pembrokeshire and like to thank you once on Ward 10 but it is great inclusive, positive patient Ceredigion. The ward again for thinking of us.” to be able to help children experience and we are currently has 30 inpatient In January 2019, who have to be in hospital extremely grateful,” said beds, 8 assessment beds Elly’s Ward 10 Flag Sandra Jones when they are ill.” and three high dependency Appeal wrote to Merlin Entertainment asking for support and were introduced to Erin from Merlin’s Magic Wand children’s charity. Merlin’s Magic Wand is a children’s charity that supports children facing challenges of serious illness, disability or adversity around the world. The Charity makes FUN accessible to children with three Magic Spells: ‘Magical Days Out’ providing tickets and funding travel grants to families to enjoy their day at a Merlin Entertainments’ attraction; ‘Merlin’s Magic On Tour’ working with our local communities at hospitals and hospices to bring the magic to the children wherever they are; and ‘Merlin’s Magic Spaces’ designing and creating amazing projects in hospitals, orphanages, learning Centres and more all around the world. Impressed with Elly’s achievements the charity kindly offered Elly the opportunity to donate one of their Mobile Entertainment Units to a children’s ward of her choice.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

NEWS

Coast path challenge gets the Point Across Positively Liberal

YOUNG people from the Fishguard area recently stepped up to the mark to take on a walking challenge set by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority Ranger, Richard Vaughan. Members of the POINT Youth Centre had been tasked with completing a 22-mile sponsored walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path – one mile for each year Richard has worked for the Park Authority. Richard said: “I was so pleased to see 17 young people take part in the Get the POINT Across challenge, some of them giving up three days of their summer holidays to boot. “The POINT team certainly went the extra mile and more, walking from Poppit Sands back to the youth centre in Fishguard, which is a total of 27 miles. I’ve worked with POINT for around 15 years and have seen how the centre encourages young people to play a positive

role in their community. It was great to help them raise some money to continue this work, while they also discovered parts of the National Park for the first time.” POINT was set up to provide young people aged 11-25 gain the self-esteem,

skills and self-confidence to cope with the personal problems during the transition from childhood to adulthood. The drop-in centre provides a safe and welcoming place six days a week with a range of activities, community

projects, workshops and trips. Many have a particular emphasis on the environment such as the John Muir Award and beach cleans. All the proceeds raised during the walk will go to POINT and Get the Boys a Lift, a not for

PEMBROKESHIRE Bed & Breakfast, Fields Lodge is celebrating after being crowned the Welsh Hidden Gem at last night’s eviivo Awards, the UK’s premier annual awards for  the independent hospitality industry. Fields Lodge finished top of the list in the Welsh Hidden Gem category after being judged by a panel of industry experts at a glittering awards ceremony in London. Five other independent

accommodation businesses shortlisted from Wales also competed across a variety of categories including: ‘Sweetest Homestay’, ’Direct Line for Business Outstanding Host’ and ‘Budget with a Twist’. These independently owned B&Bs, guesthouses, boutique hotels and holiday rentals were shortlisted to represent the pinnacle of UK and particularly Welsh hospitality, providing some of the country’s most special holiday

experiences in a variety of settings. The  eviivo Awards, now in their fifth year, were hosted at the luxurious Grand Connaught Rooms in London and recognised the very best of the UK’s world-class independent accommodation sector. eviivo reports that year on year, properties that were shortlisted in previous years command prices that are 8% higher than the rest of the sector and enjoy 17% higher occupancy level across the range of

nominees, regardless of Winning the award really the location, grade or type put us on the map and of accommodation they meant that many more visitors from across the offer. Sarah Alexiou, UK and around the world B&B owner  of have become aware of our Wo o l m a r k e t   H o u s e , boutique-style country Chipping Campden getaway. Combined with and winner of the the additional publicity Most Beautifully from media, this has a significant Presented Award 2018 played in generating c o m m e n t e d :   " T h e part interest generated new enquiries and i n   Wo o l m a r k e t   H o u s e substantially increasing since receiving the Most the  level of exposure. Beautifully Presented The award has proven award almost 12 months to be  a fantastic way ago has been remarkable. to attract new guests.”

with Alistair

Cameron

Pembrokeshire Coast Path Challenge: Ranger Richard Vaughan and the team from the POINT Youth Centre

profit based community interest company (CIC) working to better improve mental health within the community. To view a video of the Get the POINT Across challenge on the POINT Youth Centre’s YouTube channel.

Fields Lodge picks up ‘Hidden Gem’ award

At the time of writing, we do not know whether we will be leaving the European Union on 31 October and under what terms. A no-deal will severely affect the livelihoods of many in Pembrokeshire and West Wales. However, the deal proposed by Prime Minister Johnson would also be damaging to our economy and public services. There can be no ‘win-win’ if we leave. Five key industries (aerospace, automotive, chemicals, food and drink and pharmaceuticals) have warned that the Government’s plans for post-Brexit trading arrangements pose a “serious risk to manufacturing competitiveness.” Collectively, the sectors employ 1.1 million people, contributing £98 billion to the UK economy. In particular, they are concerned about the lack of alignment with EU regulations which will restrict their ability to trade with the EU. Any limitation on trade will affect our economy which will also damage our public services. Concerns have also been raised that the prime minister might be looking for a form of free trade agreement with the EU which could mean cutting back on workplace rights, social rights and environmental rights. Locally, Brexit will impact many areas including farming, care homes (through higher staff costs), our public

services and Valero Oil Refinery. Whilst Valero is committed to remaining in Pembrokeshire, the prospect of tariffs on oil exports combined with the government’s policy of not taxing petrol imports places them at a serious disadvantage. Boris Johnson’s proposals for the Northern Irish border have been branded as unworkable and designed to fail. Naomi Long MEP, Leader of the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland has described the proposal to offer “two borders for four years” as an alternative to the backstop as “in no way serious.” She added that the idea that the Northern Ireland Assembly, which has not sat for nearly three years, would be able to take on the responsibility for an international treaty between heads of sovereign Governments, is “a ludicrous proposition.” The best deal is the one we currently enjoy as EU members giving us full access to European markets. I will, therefore, be joining other travellers from Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire at the People’s March in London on Saturday where we are calling for a People’s Vote (referendum) on any deal the Prime Minister has negotiated. This vote must give us the option to remain within the European Union.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

NEWS

Exploring Sacred Wales HISTORIC churches and chapels are to become a key part of Wales’ tourism offer, thanks to ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’, a new project from the National Churches Trust. Working with Visit Wales, the Church in Wales, Addoldai Cymru, Cadw and other national partners, ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’ will see over 500 historic places of worship in Wales featured on ExploreChurches, the UK’s church tourism hub (www.explorechurches. com), by May 2020. The website will showcase the fascinating history and stunning art and architecture of over 500 historic churches and chapels along and around The Wales Way, a family of three national routes developed by Visit Wales – The Coastal Way, The Cambrian Way and The North Wales Way. New photography and films will form part of ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’, helping to shine the spotlight on some of the very finest sacred spaces in the UK. The project has

St. Davids Cathedral: hoping to boost numbers

received funding through the Welsh Government Rural Communities - Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government. ‘Exploring Sacred

Wales’ will make it easy for visitors to discover Wales’ world class sacred heritage, with the ExploreChurches website providing details of opening times, special events and mapping tools to make historic churches and chapels a ‘must see’ on

OPEN MON - THURS 10:00 - 2:00 OPEN TIL 5:30 EVERY FRIDAY FROM 3RD OCTOBER ONWARDS

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the tourist map of Wales. Key information will also be featured on The Wales Way website. The aim is to make sure that visiting churches and chapels becomes part of family holidays, weekends away, short breaks and days out in Wales. The sacred spaces of Wales will also be marketed to the tourism trade in Britain and abroad. Are you longing to sit where the Bishops did? To be moved by the power of the chapel? To follow in the footsteps of pilgrims? Five powerful ‘experiences’, bookable online and themed around place and history will form part of ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’, so visitors can book and easily explore Wales’ heritage at first hand. Huw Edwards, Broadcaster and Journalist and Vice-President of the National Churches Trust said: “From hill top chapels to ancient churches to medieval cathedrals, the churches and chapels of Wales are some of the most beautiful religious buildings anywhere in the world.” “I’m delighted that ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’ is making it exciting and easy to discover the sacred spaces of Wales. It’s high time that the churches and chapels of Wales took their rightful place on the tourism map alongside

our magnificent castles, stunning mountains and exhilarating coastline.” Claire Walker, Chief Executive of the National Churches Trust said: “For too long, the history, art and architecture of the churches and chapels of Wales has been a secret known only to a lucky few. The sacred space of Wales are packed with history, culture and mythology and have the power to inspire the mind and invigorate the soul. Using the power of the digital, ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’ will make it easy for the people of Wales and visitors from the rest of the UK and abroad to discover and experience this living work of art.” “I’m very grateful for the investment of time and money in ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’ by our key partners, Visit Wales, the Church in Wales, Addoldai Cymru, Cadw. Attracting more people to visit the churches and chapels of Wales is key to ensuring their long term sustainability. The tourist pound they bring with them will also help boost the economy and support local businesses which is good news for everyone in Wales.” Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Lord ElisThomas, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to support this exciting partnership and initiative during our Year of Discovery. So much of Wales’ story is linked to our sacred places – and this initiative will bring that story life and attract more people to discover what our chapels and churches have to offer.” Sarah Crossland, Church Tourism Manager of the National Churches Trust said. “We are looking forward to working with volunteers in churches and chapels along The Wales Way and throughout Wales to discover and tell their stories. Wales’ ancient churches and powerful historic chapels will become an important part of the country’s growing tourism offer. With glorious photographs, engaging films and unique ‘experiences’ we invite you to join us in ‘Exploring Sacred Wales’.”

Cheaper autumn travel for over 50’s

Cheaper train journeys: for over 50’s

RAIL PASSENGERS in Milford Haven aged 50 and over in Wales and the Borders can now save money on longer journeys throughout Wales and the Borders network with TfW’s latest offer, Club 50. Under Club 50, these passengers can travel offpeak between any TfW network destinations before December 2 for a fixed price of £29 return, with tickets on sale until November 24. This new ticket option extends the previous Club 55, improving the eligibility to 50 and over in order to widen the offer to over 200,000 more people in Wales and the Borders. Tickets are valid on any off-peak journey booked in advance for specific trains and can be bought from 12 weeks and up to 6pm, prior to the day of travel. Club 50 is the latest ticket pricing initiative launched by TfW to make travelling by train more affordable for customers across the Wales and Borders network. It follows the rail operator’s reduced Advance ticket prices (on journeys over 50 miles), and discounted, flexible travel options via Multiflex e-tickets. James Price, chief executive officer of Transport for Wales, said: “Affordability of rail travel was an important part of encouraging more rail travel and that more ticket reductions for a range of customers are planned. “We’re pleased to launch an extended offer under Club 50, as we know that our customers want to be able to travel

further for less and to be able to choose the train for longer trips to visit family and friends or for short breaks. “When we took over the franchise almost a year ago, we made a commitment to our customers across Wales and the Borders that rail travel would significantly improve over the coming years in a number of ways. “While our teams are working hard behindthe-scenes on the large-scale projects to improve infrastructure and introduce worldclass trains, we’re also committed to improving our customers’ experience now. Improving affordability is a key element of that and, by introducing price-based offers such as the new Club 50, we are able to provide our customers with increasing value-formoney.” Colin Lea, customer experience director and deputy chief operations officer at Transport for Wales Rail Services, added: ““Following the success of previous pricing initiatives such as reduced Advance fares, we know how important it is for our customers to have access to low-cost travel options, especially when it comes to taking longer journeys. “We hope that Club 50 will encourage passengers aged 50 and over to take advantage of the discounted tickets and travel with us more often.” For more information about TfW, and how to purchase Club 50 tickets, visit a ticket office, the TfW Rail app or tfwrail. wales.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

NEWS

Anti-slavery campaigner receives medal

A PEMBROKESHIRE woman who has committed herself to combating modern slavery has been presented with the British Empire Medal. Dr Anne Kelly of Saundersfoot was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June. A Swansea University lecturer, she sits on the Dyfed Powys anti-slavery forum that meets in Carmarthen. Much of her work is done through the Soroptimist International organisation. Through her personal commitment, she is contributing to more victims of slavery being identified, recovered and supported as well as bringing their perpetrators to justice. It is partly through her determination and constant lobbying of MPs that the Modern Slavery Act became law in March 2015. Dr Kelly was presented with the British Empire Medal by the LordLieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards, in a ceremony at County Hall on Friday (October 11). Dr Kelly was accompanied by family members.

Plaid announce candidate Plaid Cymru Preseli Pembrokeshire constituency is pleased to announce that Cris Tomos will be standing for Plaid Cymru in Preseli Pembrokeshire for the Assembly election in 2021, he is also standing for any snap general election when one is announced. Cris will launch his campaign at Caffi Beca, Efailwen tonight (Friday, October 18) at 7pm. Cris will be joined by Jonathan Edwards

the MP for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr who will explain the current situation with Plaid Cymru campaigns at Westminster. The evening is open to all who wish to support Cris Tomos’ campaign to ensure the families and communities of Pembrokeshire are at the forefront of social, economical, health and wellbeing developments for Wales. For additional information see the Facebook page for Plaid Cymru Preseli.

A ‘Haunting Halloween’ at Scolton

Dr Kelly with the Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards: and Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman, Councillor Dr Simon Hancock. With them is the Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet, Cadet Corporal Max Thompson of Neyland.

SCOLTON Manor will be marking the school holidays with a fiendish fortnight of Halloween activities from Saturday 19 October to Sunday 3 November. Visit the Manor House and challenge yourself to the ‘Spooktacular Quizzes’ or get creative with the ‘Monstrous Makes’. Both activities are included in the normal Manor House admission price and are available daily between 11 am and 4 pm. Entrance to the

Manor House costs just £3.50 for adults, £2.35 for concessions and children over 4 years and £9.35 for a family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children). Carry on the fun outside and follow the ‘Spinetingling Trails’ around the picturesque grounds. Solve the clues to win a prize! The trails are available between 11am and 4pm daily, at a cost of £1 per child. For enquiries, contact Nikki Caldwell on 01437 731328 or nikki.caldwell@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Wales revealed as modern slavery hotspot

T :01646 695341 E: lordnelson@sabrain.com Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven, SA73 3AW

WALES has been revealed as a modern slavery hotspot, according to a Salvation Army report released in time for Anti Slavery Day today (Oct 18). The report finds that: • Between July 2018 and June 2019, 74 potential victims were based in the country and needed support from The Salvation Army. • Of these 10 people were British. • The British victims were four women and six men. To help raise awareness of how widespread slavery is, The Salvation Army is urging people to wear a #WeAreNotForSale temporary tattoo and to post images of the tattoo on social media. The tattoo takes the form of a barcode to symbolise how slavery treats a person as if they can be bought or sold. The tattoos can be bought via the Salvation Army website and profits will pay for additional support for modern slavery victims.

Anti Slavery Day: October 18 Major Kathy being forced to work as Betteridge, The Salvation slaves in places like farms, Army’s Director of Anti car washes, and even nail Trafficking and Modern bars. Slavery, said: “It’s “By wearing the tattoo, appalling that anyone is you will help remind forced to work as a slave people to be aware of the whether a British national signs that someone could or a victim from across the be working as a slave near world. to you. “Our report shows that “If you suspect gangs target vulnerable someone is being forced people, often with mental into slavery, call our referral health issues to act as drug confidential runners, or to move cash. helpline on 0300 303 8151 However, people are also anytime, day or night.”

The Salvation Army provides support for adult victims of modern slavery under a UK Government contract, and in addition to this The Salvation Army offers grants to help slavery survivors get their life back. They have been made for specialist trauma counselling sessions, childcare costs to enable people to access education and training, and household items including furniture

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

NEWS

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Schoolchildren celebrate nature in the National Park

THE WINNERS of this year’s Friends of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Children’s Literary Competition were presented with their prizes at the charity’s AGM at Lawrenny on Saturday (Oct 5). This year’s competition had a theme: 'Nature in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park' and, perhaps encouraged by the Friends’ donation of The Lost Words, the award-winning book by Robert Macfarlane and local artist Jackie Morris, to the county's primary schools, the number of entries increased to 148 with 22 entries written in Welsh. The competition was judged by Stephen Drinkwater (Chairman, FPCNP), Ann Morris and Carys Jones. Entries were in either poetry or prose and prizes are awarded for age ranges Primary (9-11 years) and Secondary (12-14 years).

The winners Primary Age Group • 1st Prize: Mared Phillips, Ysgol Casmael, Puncheston • 2nd Prize: Mary

Prize winners at the 2019 AGM: ( L to R) Steve Drinkwater (FPCNP Chair), Mared Phillips, Alaw Williams, Indigo Young and Mared Nicholas Reed-Moane Ysgol, Preseli Hopwood. once again, exceptional, Llanychllwydog, All the winning entries and it was again extremely Pontfaen Group prizes were are published on the difficult for the judges to • 3rd Prize: Alaw awarded to Ysgol Friends’ website. pick the winners". Williams, Ysgol Llanychllwydog and Ysgol Steve Drinkwater said The Friends have now Casmael, Puncheston y Preseli in recognition of of this year's competition: launched the 2019/2020 the volume and quality of "I would like to say a big competition with the Secondary Age Group entries received from these thank you to all the pupils theme 'Plastic waste and • 1st Prize: Esyllt Corp, schools. These schools will who submitted such varied the Pembrokeshire Coast'. Ysgol y Preseli receive a copy of Geiriau and interesting entries for As usual, there will be • 2nd Prize: Indigo Diflanedig, a new Welsh this year's competition categories for both Primary Young, Ysgol y Preseli language version of The and to congratulate the and Secondary School • 3rd Prize: Mared Lost Words which has winners. The quality and pupils and entries can be in Nicholas, Ysgol y been written by Mererid standard of entries were, English or Welsh and can

National awards Merit celebration

A LOCAL company has been nominated for two national awards in the same month, as they prepare to go head-tohead with global giants. Merit Software, based in Neyland, is the UK’s market-leader for temporary recruitment and umbrella company payroll software, which they develop in-house. Having recently celebrated its 22nd birthday, the company now employs nearly 50 members of staff, and over two million workers are paid through their software every single week. The company’s high quality products and service has been recognised recently with two prestigious award nominations. The first nomination is in the ‘Best Accounting or Payroll Software’ category at the Contracting Awards, which is being held at the Grand Ballroom in London on November 6. In addition, last

week the company was shortlisted as a finalist in the ‘Payroll and HR Software Product Award’ at the Reward Strategy Awards, which is held on December 5 at the Hilton London Bankside. With global companies such as Freeagent and XERO also up for the awards a win is by no means a guarantee, but Merit Software see being nominated alongside such big players as a victory in itself. Sam Radion, Sales Director, said: “It is great to be recognised with these award nominations following our hard work this year. “I was particularly pleased to see Merit listed alongside companies such as Freeagent and XERO, many times our size with global presences. “To have reached the finals of this award shows that we really are leading the way in the UK when it comes to solutions for the umbrella and recruitment market.”

Esyllt Corp, Mary Reed-Moane, Ann Morris (judge), take the form of a letter, a poem, a journal, a diary, a leaflet or a piece of prose. Entries must be submitted by 15th June 2020. Full details and terms and conditions are on the Friends’ website. The Friends of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a charity with over 400 members whose stated aim is to help to protect,

conserve and enhance the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The charity welcomes new members of all ages – please visit www. fpcnp.org.uk for more information. The Friends run a comprehensive series of events including visits, walks and talks as well as contributing to consultations affecting the future of the park.

CASTLE SCHOOL

Castle school is a well-established, all-inclusive, co-educational, independent school offering education for girls and boys from ages 3 - 18 We provide an exciting and forward thinking education. Current and past pupils are testament to the fact that it is both possible and beneficial to excel in non-selective environment where they feel cherished and encouraged to grow into confident young adults. Sam Radion: Sales director, Merit Software

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THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

COMMENT

Off the record! Edwards with

Badger checks out

BY THE time you read this, Badger will no longer be with you, readers. Sorry to disappoint some of you, but – unless fate is even more prone to temptation than Badger supposes – all that means is that he will finally be away on a holiday. As in ‘a holiday’ holiday and not ‘a holiday’ interspersed with frantic writing as a deadline approaches. Mrs Badger and Dr Owl have been very clear on that point. ‘A holiday means a holiday’ is what Badger’s been told. It makes him think of a similar phrase deployed by some mad old bat in the past. But in this case, the definition of the noun is as inflexible as Mrs Badger’s grip on the rolling pin brandished in Badger’s general direction when she made the point. Badger isn’t even being allowed to take his beloved laptop with him. Yes, readers, Old Faithful, upon which Badger has poured out hundreds of thousands – maybe millions - of words over recent years is staying at home. It’s not quite the same as sun, sea and culture – but a rest is as good a change for appliances. Next week, this space will not be filled with Badger’s ponderings on the insanity of the world and the inanity of humans. Mutterings of a guest columnist have been uttered. Whether this space is filled by Bernie Beaver or cat-magnet Hemmy Hamster is not a matter with

which Badger is concerned. All Badger can think is ‘you lucky bugger’ to whoever’s words you read in this spot in this paper’s next edition. This week, however, Badger fulfils his contractual obligation to you by reviewing the last Council meeting. Way back when Jamie Adams led the Council, there was an almighty brouhaha about sixth form education in the north of the County. Ambitious plans to do away with post-16 education in schools and decant over 16s compulsorily to Pembrokeshire College to prepare for life beyond A-Levels and their equivalents ended in a row. Eventually, St David’s kept its secondary school, but only at the cost of it and Fishguard’s sixth forms. In Haverfordwest, the abject stupidity of the Council’s own legal department and the vaulting ambition of the College ran aground on legal and practical grounds. The College sulked and withdrew its backing for the Pembroke Learning Campus, intended as a centre for vocational training. Of Milford Haven, little was said. Milford Haven School – largely like Greenhill – was relegated to footnote status in the grand scheme. Indeed, the contempt with which those schools and Pembroke were treated was palpable. The Council boldly declared that federation between schools to provide

sixth form education was a second-best option to stop it happening in Haverfordwest, St Davids, and Fishguard while foisting it on Milford Haven, Pembroke, and Tenby. A closer look at the plans only confirmed that sixth forms would only continue temporarily for those schools. Eventually, students wishing to study academic A-Levels would have been bussed from Pembroke, Pembroke Dock, Tenby and points in between to Haverfordwest. The only question was ‘how soon’? Now we know. Very. It is difficult to disagree with the analysis offered by Cllr Mike Stoddard both at the time and on several occasions since: as long as the College was allowed to compel students to attend it for post-16 education, a time bomb ticked under Pembrokeshire’s sixth forms. As soon as the Memorandum of Understanding between the Council and Pembrokeshire College about post-16 education was signed in 2017, that bomb became live. In the first predictable explosion of a chain reaction, the first school’s sixth form has gone ‘boom’. Milford Haven’s students want to save their sixth form. They will get all of the condescending attention given to Haverfordwest’s sixth formers. ‘Momma knows best’, will be the refrain as

a box-ticking consultation goes through the motions and Kate Evans-Hughes gets shirty with students who dare to ask questions about concepts like ‘choice’ and ‘compulsion’. It’s a hard lesson for students to learn, but as far as some council officers are concerned they are a cost and a drain on resources. As far as the College is concerned they’re a resource to be exploited for monetary reasons. It’s a pity so few students in Pembrokeshire study economics at any level; otherwise, they would soon find out about the mechanism by which the Memorandum of Understanding rigged the market for resources in the College’s favour. There is no earthly reason why sixth formers – or potential sixth formers – wishing to study at A-level should not go to either Haverfordwest High School or Pembroke when push comes to shove. At least when the shove comes to the cessation of post -16 education in Milford Haven. At Pembrokeshire College, some 60% of Sixth Formers (before the St Davids and Fishguard intake), was put on vocational courses – with only a few students undertaking some academic courses such as History and Geography. Vocational is, of course, where it’s at for post-16 education and it would be interesting to find out just how many students from Fishguard and St Davids

have ended up enrolled on vocational courses instead of academic ones since theirs and their parents’ choice was removed. For purely altruistic reasons, of course. But what really burns – and what should be seriously grinding the gears of any councillors with a memory and a sense of a system being rooked is this: Pembrokeshire College is largely getting what it wanted out of the Council in terms of student numbers without spending penny one on a Pembroke Learning Campus. The Memorandum of Understanding is not a deal with the Devil; however, there are certainly elements of a Faustian pact being struck. In this case, especially with Kirsty Williams bent hell-forleather on getting sixth forms out of schools, there’s no divine intervention coming to save the day. Once you are at the College, you have nowhere else to go. Badger recollects one young cub who was shuffled from one unsuitable vocational course to another to ensure he did not spoil the retention stats before leaving. He left. Did well for himself. Got a job. Made it a career. Guess where he’s back doing the paper bits to show he’s as good as his employer knows he is. It’s like Hotel California. It’s like working for a local newspaper, too. You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave.

THE BEST that can be said about this month is that there are under two weeks left in it. The weather has been vile. Wet and cold. And where it has not been wet and cold, it has been cold and wet. There have been times I have contemplated trying to locate the kids’ old beach equipment and canoeing down to the shops to pick up the daily paper and a packet of Victory Vs. One particular sodden day last weekend, I tucked the wife’s favourite newspaper under my coat and legged it the short distance to the car in rapid order. No good. On removing it from its place of concealment, the wretched tabloid was soaked. I took it home and showed it to the wife, who proceeded to display the self-control and good humour I have come to expect when she is deprived of her horoscope, the racing form, and her daily dose of bilious right-wing tat. She crumpled the offending sodden mess into a ball and hurled it across the kitchen diner towards the bin, where it landed with a sorry splat. On the plus side, when it dried and completed its journey towards papier-mache it had the advantage of looking like a perfectly realised model of the half-completed Death Star in Return of the

Mike

Jedi. But the weather is not the only reason that this last month will go down as I hope to be able to forget but never shall. Having recently had a prolonged bout of stomach trouble, in the middle of July I hauled my carcass to the GP who after much prodding of my tender belly referred me to the hospital. There I found myself a few weeks ago to have a camera inserted in my nether parts and samples taken. The experience was, mercifully, brief. For those of you who have not had the pleasure, I can heartily recommend avoidance in all but the most urgent and trying of circumstances. Nothing can quite prepare you for the sensation of having the air blown up your back passage while the whole drama unfolds on a screen in front of you displaying those parts never destined to see the light of day. While I lay there and thought of England (as I am inclined to do whenever the word ‘arseholes’ pops into my head), I wished the procedure was happening to Boris Johnson (ditto). In his case, I cheered myself by imagining that fantastic journey undertaken by a full BBC camera crew and soundman). Preferably with a hushed commentary from either Professor Brian Cox or Sir David Attenborough.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

FARMING

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Farming News

Farmers not exploiting EBVs A RECENT survey shows that many farmers are familiar with Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) but do not have the confidence to use them when purchasing rams. The data, collected by Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) at the recent NSA Wales Ram Sale in Builth Wells has shown that whilst 80% of buyers were familiar with EBVs only 23% used EBVs when selecting a new ram. EBVs offer data on recorded performance traits - such as maternal ability, eight-week weight, fat depth and muscle depth - and provide a platform for farmers to buy rams based on data and information rather than by visual appearance alone. Of the survey participants who did buy rams with EBVs, maternal ability was the most focused-on trait, followed by eight-

week weight and muscle depth. HCC Flock Genetic Executive, Gwawr Parry, who co-ordinates HCC’s Hill Ram Scheme explained: “Genetics is the only influence a ram has over its offspring so it’s beneficial for buyers and farmers to understand what rams are offering to their future flocks when making purchasing decisions.” The Hill Ram Scheme is a 5-year project as part of HCC’s Red Meat Development Programme to encourage the use of performance recording in the hill sector and the prominence and understanding of EBVs as a result. It is funded as part of the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government. HCC is also part of

the UK-wide interbreed RamCompare project which aims to drive genetic improvement forward through the inclusion of commercial data in genetic evaluations. Gwawr Parry added, “Whilst it is heartening to see that so many farmers are familiar with the term, the fact that so many farmers are still not actively using EBVs in their flock planning shows that this project is both timely and important. “As projects such as the Hill Ram Scheme and Ram Compare develop, more and more performance recorded rams will be available to buyers meaning that farmers will be able to make informed choices to suit their particular enterprise or goal – whether that’s an increased potential maternal ability or increased growth rates. “Participants in the Hill Ram Scheme also receive

Farmers purchasing rams: Not using Estimated Breeding Values There are currently years to gain a critical seven Leader Flocks and mass of performance 20 new participants in the recorders for Welsh hill scheme who will receive breeds and ultimately support and training from making the Welsh sheep HCC over the coming sector more efficient

training on understanding and analysing EBVs which should importantly, improve confidence in explaining them to potential customers.”

and resilient. There will be a further application window in early 2020 for farmers interested in joining the scheme.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

FARMING

Farming News

NFU puts pressure The cost of Bovine TB: Almost 12,500 cattle slaughtered in year to June 2019 NFU CYMRU has urged the Welsh Government to reconsider its current bovine TB eradication programme. The Union made its call after the publication of a new peer-reviewed paper on the effectiveness of badger culls in England. NFU Cymru says the evidence within the Downs

Jon coles

jon.coles.herald.email Report, published on Friday, October 11, clearly shows that badger culling can result in significant reductions in the number of TB outbreaks in cattle. Research into the effectiveness of the English badger cull in the original

cull zones in Gloucestershire and Somerset showed, after four years, a 66% reduction in new bovine TB breakdowns in cattle in Gloucestershire and a 37% reduction in Somerset. NFU Cymru President John Davies said: “I am delighted that the NFU’s policy has been vindicated and farmers within England

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WANTED TRACTORS & MACHENERY DEAD OR ALIVE

Badgers: A known TB carrier

can take comfort from the fact that genuine progress is finally being made in tackling this terrible disease, with positive steps being made towards the country becoming TB free. This research is clear evidence of the success of the Westminster Government’s bovine TB eradication strategy. “Of course, this new evidence will only add to the extreme frustration and anger that Welsh farmers feel about the inadequacy of the Welsh Government's current bovine TB eradication programme. "Bovine TB continues to severely affect Welsh farming families, both emotionally and financially. Latest statistics show that 12,360 cattle were slaughtered in Wales in the year to June 2019: that is unsustainable for the Welsh cattle industry. “It is essential lessons are learned from the way the Westminster Government has implemented its bovine TB eradication plan in England. This new evidence emphatically shows the only way forward in eradicating this horrific disease here in Wales is for Welsh Government to recognise that robust controls to tackle the reservoir of disease in the wildlife population need to be employed. This should be alongside the range of other measures already in operation, such as enhanced biosecurity and cattle control measures. “The peer-reviewed, scientific evidence released

today cannot be ignored. Welsh Government must now urgently review its current ineffective bovine TB policy. We need a fitfor-purpose science-based programme to tackle this terrible disease across all its vectors. “The Minister has repeatedly ruled out an English-style approach in Wales. Based on the evidence published today, we ask she now urgently reconsiders her decision. "In a letter to the Minister in February, we set out our willingness to work in partnership with the Welsh Government to take forward a farmer-led badger control strategy. That strategy took onboard the protocols established between the NFU and the Westminster Government. The offer remains; but to deliver, farmers need to know the Welsh Government will provide the support successive farming Ministers in England have given to the bovine TB eradication programme. “As we head into a postBrexit world it is essential that farmers in Wales are allowed to compete on a level playing field and are not hamstrung by an ineffective policy. At NFU Cymru we are ambitious for the future of our farming sector, but if we are to realise our ambitions then we must be allowed to rid ourselves of this disease once and for all and move forward with a thriving cattle industry sitting alongside a healthy wildlife population.”

There is a scientific consensus that culling on its own will not contain or eradicate bovine TB. The Welsh Government’s vaccination trial, which resulted in an increased number of cattle being slaughtered, was abandoned unfinished. Welsh Government policy on controlling bovine TB rules out any organised or monitored badger cull. A limited plan to trap badgers, euthanise, and test them caused an uproar among fringe wildlife activists. The controversy grew larger after the 'accidental' publication of the locations of farms where those trials took place from within the Welsh Government. Instead, Cardiff Bay’s lawmakers have preferred to concentrate on increased movement controls and biosecurity. That policy has failed to make a dent in bovine TB’s toll on farms and farming communities, in spite of the gloss placed upon it by Government ministers. The Welsh Government's latest wheeze is to cut compensation payments for farmers whose herds are slaughtered. Its approach has been described as 'a cattle eradication programme'. In spite of that criticism, the prevalence of persistent TB outbreaks in some areas suggests that other vectors for the disease are in play; for example, cattle-to-cattle transmission. Vaccination won’t work on an animal that already has

bovine TB, and no country in the world where wildlife carries the disease has eradicated it in cattle without tackling it in wildlife too. There are calls for cows to be vaccinated against bTB. Currently, the only option is the BCG vaccine. The problem is it is currently impossible to distinguish between a BCGvaccinated and TB-infected cow. And for this reason, it is currently illegal under EU law to vaccinate cattle with the BCG jab. Professor Rosie Woodroffe of Imperial College London, who is researching whether a TB vaccine for badgers would be effective said: “A reduction in cattle TB inside at least some of the culled areas would be expected, based on the findings of the Randomised Badger Culling Trial [which took place a decade ago]. “The question remains as to whether culling is a cost-effective tool in the fight to eradicate bovine TB. This study suggests that culling is not working consistently across all TBaffected areas of England. Previous studies showed that culling did not lead to the sustained reductions in TB that would be required from an eradication tool, partly because it consistently increased TB prevalence in the badger population, even as it reduced badger numbers. The authors are right, therefore, to highlight that “Culling badgers will not provide the entire solution

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

FARMING

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on WG over BTB to the cattle TB problem in Great Britain and the impact of the policy needs to be evaluated alongside other TB controls.” Prof James Wood, Head of Department of Veterinary Medicine and Alborada Professor of Equine and Farm Animal Science, University of Cambridge, said: “This is a robust scientific evaluation of the overall impact of farmer-led badger culls in the first three areas that the policy was implemented in, comparing rates of disease in cull zones and their periphery with those in comparable other parts of the country. “Importantly, the analysis takes into account known confounders although it cannot distinguish the impact of culling itself from the other measures that farmers may have implemented in cull zones. Overall, the

WG must review ‘inadequate’ policy: Says NFU- Dr Rosie Woodroffe: “The question remains as to Cymru President John Davies whether culling is a cost-effective tool”

incidence of cattle TB on farms was significantly and substantially lower in Gloucestershire and Somerset, but not significantly reduced in Dorset, in areas where

badgers were culled by farmers. “Interestingly, there was no increase in rates of cattle disease in zones around the cull zones, but rather a significant decrease in

Gloucestershire and Dorset. This paper thus describes a positive impact of the overall policy, with evidence that the increased movement reported elsewhere in surviving badgers is not

significantly increasing the disease in cattle. “The variation in impact between cull zones is not surprising given the results of the earlier randomised controlled badger trial.”

Cattle vaccination: Not a current option

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THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

FARMING

Farming News

NFU-Cymru condemns

WE’RE halfway through October and the nights are drawing in. We might even start seeing a touch of frost in the mornings. As the temperatures drop, the leaves fall and turn golden brown and red, the wind starts to blow and the rain whips across the land - what better is there than to wrap up in a woolly blanket or pull that big jumper on to keep warm? And as we are celebrating all that wool has to offer as part of Wool Week 2019 ( 07 - 20 October), highlighting its natural performance qualities and ecological benefits, we would encourage anyone wanting to help the environment and lead a more sustainable, plastic-free life, to embrace wool and buy local and in-season food. Every year our sheep will produce a new fleece and they will do so as long as there is grass for them to graze on, making wool an excellent renewable fibre source. That is especially true if compared to synthetic fibres, which require oil and refineries and are a non-renewable resource for man-made fibre production. Indeed, sheep farmers actively work to safeguard the environment and improve efficiency in livestock production. The strain on natural resources and reductions required in the use of fossil fuels means that we all have to look at our longer-term choices. Let’s not forget that farmers feed the nation

with sustainable and well cared for lamb and they take their responsibility to look after the environment seriously. They share concerns about plastic and micro-fibre pollution in our oceans and soil, as well as pollution from fossil fuels. One solution to the problem is wool produced by sheep here in Wales. There are over 10 million sheep here, which means we have access to a great resource right on our doorstep. Wool at the end of its useful life can be returned to the soil. Where it decomposes, it releases valuable nutrients into the ground and it only takes a very short time to break down. It doesn’t pollute the oceans and has many other benefits. If you are serious about doing your bit for the environment - make a conscious decision. Consider where the food you are consuming has come from or what the clothes you’re wearing have the potential to do to the environment. It might not fix all the problems all at once, but it would be a good start. And after all, is there anything better than a home-cooked stew whilst wearing your favourite woolly jumper?

NFU CYMRU has expressed profound disappointment and dismay at the Welsh Government’s approach to introducing new rules for water quality in Wales. Following the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Planning and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths’ Written Statement of November 14, 2018 announcing that there would be new measures to protect water quality from agricultural pollution, it is clear that these new regulations comprise a ‘cut and paste’ of the existing full NVZ action programme together with a number of additional elements to be applied across the whole of Wales. New proposed regulations will include statutory measures to control the dates (closed periods) and conditions under which nitrogen fertiliser and organic fertilisers are spread; having sufficient facilities for the storage

of manure and slurries; limiting nitrogen fertiliser applications to crop requirements; limiting the total quantity of organic materials applied at per hectare and farm level as well as preparing detailed plans and record-keeping which will be subject to inspection. Following discussions between NFU Cymru lawyers, JCP and the Welsh Government earlier this year, the Government confirmed to NFU Cymru that the development of the regulations would be subject to consideration of the available evidence and the findings of a Regulatory Impact Assessment. NFU Cymru has recently submitted available evidence to the Minister which includes analysis of a broad range of environmental, economic, social and cultural factors. Data from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) as part of its Water Framework Directive (WFD) monitoring shows that the number of water

NVZ Regulations: NFU Cymru slams the Welsh Government

bodies achieving good or better overall status has increased in 2018 compared to 2015; water quality in rivers has generally improved over the last 25 years. NRW data shows that less than 15% of WFD failures were attributable to agriculture in 2014.

Evidence from the Glastir Monitoring and Evaluation Programme (GMEP) found that soil nitrogen levels were stable on improved land and after recent declines in soil phosphorus, levels on improved land were stable and within the appropriate zone for

sustainable production whilst presenting a lower risk to waters. The perception that levels of agricultural pollution are greater now than in the past is also grossly misleading; NRW evidence shows there has been no increase in levels of agricultural pollution

Search is on for Welsh Livestock Champion NFU CYMRU and NFU Mutual are again looking to find the best livestock person working within the agricultural industry in Wales. Now in its sixth year, the Welsh Livestock Champion of the Year Award seeks to champion dedicated, committed and enthusiastic livestock persons from all across Wales. The award winner will receive a top prize of £500 and a Welsh Royal Crystal Trophy. Wyn Evans, Chairman of NFU Cymru’s Livestock Board, who will judge on behalf of NFU Cymru, said: “Here in Wales we have some of the best quality beef and sheep in the world, produced to the highest animal health and

Aiming to celebrate excellence among livestock producers: NFU-Cymru’s Welsh Livestock Champion welfare standards. This award livestock person can make their animal health planning, aims to celebrate excellence to a livestock farm and the breeding programme, their amongst Welsh livestock Welsh livestock industry as stock handling skills, how they a whole. Potential winners incorporate health and safety producers. “We want to recognise will be judged on their into their day-to-day activities the key role an exceptional management of the flock/herd, on-farm and their vision for the

future of the industry.” Mike Thomas, Builth Wells Group Secretary who will be judging the award on behalf of NFU Mutual, said: “The quality of the stockmanship is a major factor in determining the success of any livestock business. We have some superb stock people in the industry here in Wales and I am confident that this will be a keenly contested competition once again this year and one which NFU Mutual is pleased to support as the leading rural insurer in Wales.” The closing date for entries is Monday, November 11, and the winner will be announced at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair, at Llanelwedd, Builth Wells on Monday, November 25.

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FARMING

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‘cut and paste’ WG during the period 2001 to 2018. There are many waterbodies in Wales where there have been no agricultural pollution incidents at all. Based on NRW monitoring, preliminary expert judgement identified a downward trend in nitrates at just two of the 11 existing NVZ designations, some dating back to 2002. Aled Jones, NFU Cymru Deputy President said: “The EU Nitrates Directive aims to protect water quality by preventing nitrates from agricultural sources polluting ground and surface waters. Based on the evidence from water quality monitoring undertaken by NRW, there can be no justification whatsoever of the need for the whole Wales designation that the Welsh Government is proposing. Welsh Government’s approach of ‘cutting and pasting’ the NVZ Action Programme into new regulations is without scientific foundation and is completely unjustified and disproportionate. “We believe it is reasonable to expect the Welsh Government to have a high degree of confidence that any new regulations will deliver improved water quality outcomes. Our analysis shows that the necessary evidence to demonstrate that this approach can deliver these outcomes simply does not exist. “We are also disappointed at the vigour with which the Welsh Government is pursuing

WG Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths: Farmers request NVZ exemption over-burdensome EU required to enable them regulation at a time of to reach compliance. If profound uncertainty farming businesses are for farming. We are not adequately equipped in no doubt that this with these resources in decision will threaten this eventuality Welsh will be farm business viability, Government increase bureaucracy and effectively setting the complexity and reduce industry up to fail.” Concluding, Mr farmers’ ability to make good nutrient management Jones said: “NFU Cymru has long been clear that decisions. “The lack of openness one pollution incident and transparency shown is one too many and we by the Welsh Government remain committed to on this issue over the working with partners past few months is highly on the development of a concerning. If Welsh framework that enables Government insists farmers to take positive on pursuing a ‘cut and action to improve water paste’ of the NVZ Action quality where this is Programme, which is an necessary. “NFU Cymru’s unwieldy and inflexible of available EU regulation, then it analysis needs, at the very least, to evidence shows that the be honest with the farming costs associated with NVZ industry and provide them rules vastly outweigh with all the resources any benefits to water

quality. It is, quite frankly, unthinkable that Welsh Government is moving ahead with this approach at this time. We urge the Welsh Government to consider the costs and impacts very carefully before moving forward. Our evidence is clear proposed new regulations, as they currently stand, will not deliver the outcomes for water quality or the environment but will place many farm businesses and jobs at risk.” NFU Cymru has written to Welsh Government to seek an exemption that will allow farmers operating within Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) to spread during the forthcoming closed period which began on Tuesday (Oct 15). This request comes as increasing numbers of farmers operating within NVZs have contacted the union highly concerned and distressed that the prolonged wet weather of recent weeks has prevented them from spreading, with the result that they head into the closed period with their slurry storage near or close to full capacity. The closed periods relate to the spreading of nitrogen fertilisers including manufactured nitrogen fertiliser, slurry and other organic manures and prevent the spreading of organic manure with high readily available nitrogen between specific dates. For grassland on all other soils, this is October 15 to January 31 inclusive.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

NEWYDDION CYMRAEG

Newyddion | Cymraeg

Y Prif Weinidog yn plannu coeden rhif 10 miliwn

Yr Alban wedi eu hysbrydoli gan gynllun ‘Iaith Gwaith’

Pic credit Llun: Ed Parker Maint Cymru: Ymgyrch yn nodi carreg filltir RHAGLEN Maint Caerdydd. Y Prif Weinidog Cymru Mbale wedi yn wedi ymuno ag plant pasio carreg filltir o 10 o dîm Eco ysgol gynradd miliwn o goed wrth i’r Cwmcarn Yn ogystal â brwydro ymgyrchydd ynghylch y newid yn yr hinsawdd yn erbyn y newid yn yr Leah Namugerwa a’r hinsawdd - un o faterion Prif Weinidog Mark mwyaf ein hoes - mae coed Drakeford blannu coed sy’n tyfu’n gyflym hefyd yn diogelu pobl leol yn ar ddau gyfandir. Mae’r cynllun rhanbarth Mynydd Elgon uchelgeisiol ym Mbale, rhag effeithiau erydu pridd a ariennir gan raglen a all achosi tirlithriadau Cymru o Blaid Affrica angheuol. Llywodraeth Cymru, yn Mae’r coed hefyd plannu coed yn rhanbarth yn rhoi ffrwythau ffres a Mynydd Elgon dwyrain lloches i gymunedau lleol, Uganda, sydd wedi’i yn ogystal â ffynhonnell incwm bwysig. ddatgoedwigo yn helaeth. Y gwaith wedi plannu Caiff ei gefnogi hefyd gan gynllun Plant! coed yn cael ei gynnal wrth Llywodraeth Cymru, sy’n i Gymru a’r byd ddathlu plannu dwy goeden ar Diwrnod Rhyngwladol y gyfer pob plentyn sy’n cael Cenhedloedd Unedig ar ei eni neu ei fabwysiadu gyfer yr Eneth. Mae Leah Namugerwa yng Nghymru - un yng Nghymru ac un yn Uganda. yn un o genhedlaeth Leah Namugerwa, sy’n newydd o ferched ifanc 15 oed, yn wedi plannu sy’n protestio ynghylch y coeden rhif 10 miliwn newid yn yr hinsawdd, gan mewn seremoni arbennig dorri cwys newydd ochr yn yn Uganda. ochr â’r cyd-ymgyrchydd Ar yr un pryd, y Prif Greta Thunberg. Mae ei Weinidog Mark Drakeford gwaith ymgyrchu ar gyfer yn wedi plannu ‘gefeilles’ plannu coed a gwahardd i’r goeden ym Mharc Bute, plastig untro wedi dechrau

cael effaith sylweddol ar draws Uganda. 600 o blant o Ysgol Gynradd Makunda ac aelodau Grŵp Menywod Sunu yn ymuno â hi, gan blannu rhagor o goed i ddathlu’r prosiect a’i gynlluniau i blannu 25 miliwn o goed erbyn 2025. Dywedodd y Prif Weinidog Mark Drakeford: “Mae rhaglen plannu coed Mbale wedi bod yn llwyddiant aruthrol, gan helpu’r cymunedau mwyaf agored i niwed yn Uganda i addasu i’r newid yn yr hinsawdd. “Mae coedwigoedd trofannol yn amsugno bron i draean o’r holl allyriadau CO2 a wneir gan ddyn, gan olygu eu bod yn hanfodol wrth sefydlogi hinsawdd y byd. “Mae plannu coed yng Nghymru ac Uganda yn hanfodol wrth helpu i fynd i’r afael â’r newid yn yr hinsawdd, ac yn helpu plant Cymru i deimlo cysylltiad personol gyda’u hamgylchedd.” Dywedodd Elspeth Jones, cyfarwyddwr Maint

Cymru: “Mae plannu coeden rhif 10 miliwn yn Uganda yn gyflawniad aruthrol. Mae’r rhaglen wedi bod yn gweithio tuag at hyn ers sawl blwyddyn ac mae llawer o bobl yng Nghymru ac yn Uganda wedi mynd ati yn angerddol i sicrhau ei fod yn digwydd. “Rydym oll yn falch iawn o weld y coed hyn yn cael eu plannu heddiw i nodi’r garreg filltir arbennig hon. Rydym yn gobeithio y bydd llawer o bobl o bob rhan o Gymru yn dod i weld ein coeden yn harddwch Parc Bute ac yn defnyddio hyn fel cyfle i ddysgu am y prosiect arbennig hwn a phwysigrwydd coed wrth fynd i’r afael â’r argyfwng hinsawdd. “Rydym yn gyffrous iawn am gam nesaf y prosiect, sef plannu 25 miliwn o goed erbyn 2025 - gall unrhyw un sydd eisiau cefnogi’r ymdrech hon gyfrannu i blannu coeden fel rhan o’r prosiect ar wefan Maint Cymru.”

Comisiynydd y Gymraeg, Aled Roberts: Yn lansio ymgyrch newydd i annog siaradwyr Gaeleg MAE’R Bòrd na Gàidhlig (Bwrdd yr Iaith Aeleg) wedi lansio ymgyrch newydd i annog siaradwyr Gaeleg i roi gwybod i bobl yn yr Alban a thu hwnt eu bod yn gallu siarad yr iaith. Mae’r ymgyrch wedi ei hysbrydoli gan y cynllun ‘Iaith Gwaith’ yng Nghymru, sy’n annog siaradwyr Cymraeg i wisgo’r swigen oren i ddangos i gwsmeriaid eu bod yn gallu siarad Cymraeg. Mae siaradwyr a dysgwyr Gaeleg yn cael eu hannog i ddefnyddio’r hashnod #cleachdi – neu #useit – gyda’r hashnod #gaidhlig (sef Gaeleg) wrth siarad gyda’i gilydd – ar gyfryngau cymdeithasol, e-bost neu wefannau. Maent hefyd yn cael eu hannog i wisgo cortyn gwddf, bathodyn neu sticer gyda swigen siarad gwyrddlas arni, i ddangos i’r byd eu bod

yn falch o allu siarad yr iaith. Yn ôl Shona MacLennan, Prif Weithredwr y Bòrd na Gàidhlig: “Rydym yn falch iawn o fod yn lansio’r cynllun hwn yn ystod ein digwyddiad cenedlaethol Gaeleg, y Royal Mòd. Mae mwy a mwy o bobl eisiau defnyddio a dysgu’r Aeleg ac mae’r cynllun hwn yn ffordd hawdd iawn o annog pobl i ddefnyddio’r Aeleg mewn mwy o lefydd. Mae’n wych ein bod yn gallu edrych ar sut mae ein cyd-Geltaid yn hyrwyddo eu iaith a dilyn eu harweiniad hwy gyda’r ymgyrch yma. “Byddwn ni yn sicr yn y Bòrd na Gàidhlig yn falch iawn o ymuno yn yr ymgyrch hon i ddangos ein balchder o allu siarad yr iaith ac adnabod pobl eraill all ei siarad. Rydym yn credu mai #clachdi yw’r ffordd berffaith o wneud

hynny. Felly dewch i ni ei defnyddio a rhoi #gaidhlig ar y map.” Ychwanegodd Aled Roberts, Comisiynydd y Gymraeg: “Mae Iaith Gwaith wedi hen ennill ei blwyf yng Nghymru, ac yn adnodd defnyddiol i sefydliadau, busnesau ac elusennau i ddangos i gwsmeriaid pwy all siarad Cymraeg. “Yn y blynyddoedd diweddar, mae wedi datblygu ac yn cael ei ddefnyddio mewn amryw o ffyrdd newydd yn amrywio o gwmni peirianneg yn rhoi fersiwn ‘vinyl’ ar hetiau caled i fyrddau iechyd yn creu fersiynau magnet i roi ar welyau er mwyn dangos pa gleifion sy’n dymuno derbyn gofal yn y Gymraeg. “Mae’r cynllun yn mynd o nerth i nerth yng Nghymru ac rwyf yn falch iawn o fod yn rhan o’r lansiad hwn yn yr Alban.”

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

NEWYDDION CYMRAEG

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Newyddion | Cymraeg

Diogelu ‘Salem’ i’r Genedl MAE Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru wedi cyhoeddi ei bod wedi prynu llun Salem ar ran y genedl, i’w ddiogelu a’i drysori am byth. Mae’r paentiad erbyn heddiw yn eicon celfyddydol Cymreig. Wedi ei beintio yn 1909 gan yr arlunydd Curnow Vosper, mae’n darlunio golygfa yng Nghapel Salem, Cefncymerau, Llanbedr ger Harlech. Siân Owen yw’r cymeriad sy’n ganolog i’r paentiad. Daeth Salem i fod yn gofnod eiconig o fywyd Cymreig a’r traddodiad anghydffurfiol yng Nghymru, a magodd enwogrwydd cynyddol yn sgil y ffaith bod rhai yn gweld delwedd o’r diafol ym mhlyg siôl cymeriad canolog y llun. Mae’r paentiad yn un o ddwy fersiwn a baentiwyd gan Vosper. Fe brynwyd y cyntaf yn wreiddiol gan ddiwydiannwr o’r enw William Hesketh Lever a defnyddiwyd y ddelwedd mewn ymgyrch hyrwyddo eang gan Sunlight Soap, cwmni’r Lever Brothers’. O ganlyniad, l l e d a e n w y d atgynhyrchiadau o’r llun

ar draws Prydain ac y mae’r ddelwedd yn enwog am ei hymddangosiad mewn cartrefi ar draws Cymru. Nid syndod felly bod Salem heddiw yn un o luniau mwyaf enwog Cymru, mor eiconig yn ôl rhai ag yw The Hay Wain yn Lloegr. Cafodd yr ail fersiwn hwn ei beintio ar gyfer brawd-yng-nghyfraith yr artist, Frank James. Dywedodd Pedr ap Llwyd, Prif Weithredwr a Llyfrgellydd y Llyfrgell Genedlaethol: “Rydym mor falch o fod wedi llwyddo i brynu’r llun eiconig hwn o’r oedfa yng Nghefn Cymerau a Siân Owen a’r diafol yn ei siôl. Mae’r gwaith enigmatig hwn o eiddo Sydney Curnow Vosper yn un o drysorau’r genedl ac rwy’n edrych ymlaen at cyfleoedd i’w rhannu â Chymru a thu hwnt. Bydd yn bleser medru ei harddangos a mynd â fo allan i’r gymuned, fel rhan o’n rhaglenni Campwaith Mewn Ysgolion.” Yn ôl Meri Huws, Is-lywydd y Llyfrgell: “Gallai’r trysor amhrisiadwy hwn fod wedi’i golli’n hawdd i’r genedl a byddai hynny

wedi bod yn drychineb mawr. Mae’r Llyfrgell ar hyd y blynyddoedd wedi casglu gwaith celf sy’n portreadu bywyd Cymru ac fe fydd y darlun hwn yn cyfoethogi’r casgliad rhagorol ac helaeth sydd gennym o waith celf Cymreig. ” Meddai Ben Rogers Jones o gwmni arwerthwyr Rogers Jones: “Hoffwn achub ar y cyfle hwn i ddiolch i Lyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru am eu hwylustod wrth gytuno ar y gwerthiant. Ni allaf feddwl am geidwad mwy deinamig, creadigol a theilwng na’r Llyfrgell, a byddaf am un yn edrych ymlaen at weld ‘Salem’ yn ei gartref newydd yn Aberystwyth.”

Taflu golau ar gysgodion bywyd Meic Stevens

“DWI DDIM yn nabod y person dwi nawr,” cyfaddefai Meic Stevens mewn ffilm ddogfen bersonol newydd fydd yn darlledu yn fuan ar S4C. Wrth i’r canwr agor ei ddrysau i un gŵr a’i gamera, bydd y trwbadŵr o’r Solfa yn rhannu ei fywyd yn ei holl onestrwydd yn Meic Stevens: Dim Ond Cysgodion. Mae Meic wedi bod yn ffigwr dadleuol yn llygad y cyhoedd ar hyd ei oes, ac yn y ffilm, fydd yn darlledu nos Sadwrn, 19 Hydref am 9.00, fydd y canwr chwedlonol yn ôl yn hawlio sylw ei gynulleidfa. Bydd y ffilm awr a chwarter o hyd yn adrodd hanes bywyd Meic, gan blethu cynnwys o’r archif ar ei ddyddiau cynnar yn Solfa, Manceinion a Chaerdydd, gyda chynnwys gwreiddiol, cyfoes o’i fywyd presennol o’i gartref yn y Sblot, Caerdydd. Gyda’r canwr bellach yn 77 mlwydd oed, llwydda’r ffilm i gyffwrdd ar gyfnodau cythryblus

ym mywyd Meic, gan gynnwys ei gyfnod o ddioddef gyda chanser ar y gwddf saith mlynedd yn ôl. “O’n i’n wahanol iawn cyn y canser pan o’n i’n 70,” rhanna Meic, “dwi ddim yn teimlo fatha’r un person, dwi ddim yn ei nabod e. Dwi heb byw gydag e ers amser hir, dim ond saith blwydd oed yw e. “Ar ôl proses y driniaeth, odd fy mhen i’n bobman. Pan wedon nhw bo fi’n mynd i ddod trwyddo fe, roedd rhaid i fi ail ddysgu canu, ‘chos roedd y triniaeth wedi rhoi niwed i ngwddw i. Do’n i ddim yn gallu siarad,” ychwanegodd. Daeth y syniad i greu’r ffilm gan Guto Williams, sydd eisoes wedi cynhyrchu ffilmiau ar yr eiconig Merêd (Meredydd Evans) a’r prifardd Gerallt Lloyd Owen. “Mae hi’n hawdd iawn i ni feirniadu pobl,” meddai Guto, sydd wedi cyfarwyddo’r ffilm, “a dwi’n teimlo bod pobl yn ei chael hi’n hawdd iawn i feirniadu Meic Stevens.

Meic Stephens: ‘Dwi ddim yn nabod y person dwi nawr’

Does ‘na neb tebyg wedi bod i Meic – mae ei ddylanwad ar gerddoriaeth gyfoes Gymraeg yn un heb ei ail. Mae o’n aml yn cael ei gamddeall.” “Mae ‘na bwysau ar rywun i wneud ffilm o’r fath. Mae ‘na sawl ffilm wedi cael ei wneud ar Meic Stevens yn y gorffennol, ond dim un efallai mor bersonol â hon. Does neb erioed wedi cael camu i mewn i’w fywyd mewn modd o’r fath o’r blaen,” ychwanegodd Guto.

Dyw enw Meic Stevens heb fod yn bell o benawdau’r newyddion yn ddiweddar yn sgil honiadau iddo fod yn hiliol yn ystod ei berfformiad yng Ngŵyl Arall, Caernarfon yn gynharach eleni. “Mi ddigwyddodd yr honiadau ar ddiwedd ein proses ffilmio, a doedd dim modd osgoi cynnwys hynny yn y ffilm. Roedd o’n berson gwahanol ar ôl yr honiadau. Dwi’n rhoi cyfle iddo esbonio’i hun yn y ffilm,” meddai Guto.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

EDUCATION

Education | News

Chinese summer for Lampeter students

Support staff outnumber teachers

Welsh schools staff: Over half of staff in support roles Lampeter students: Summer school in conjunction with Beijing Union University UWTSD Archaeology Beijing, these included inspire our students to the opportunity to do. For me, the most Imperial Palace, widen their horizons and Heritage students the have attended a two- Tiananmen Square, The and learn more about memorable part of the week Summer School Summer Palace, The Ming China, we also seek to trip was visiting the Great in Beijing where they Tombs and The Great Wall promote our excellent Wall and also watching a academic programmes in series of traditional dances had an opportunity to of China. In Xi’an, the group archaeology and heritage at a theatre in Xi’an. immerse themselves in potential Chinese I think that my main visited the City walls, to Chinese culture. takeaway from the trip, This year’s Chinese the Terracotta Army and students.” Lilian Earp is particularly about future Summer School, like the also had an opportunity one in 2018, was again to attend a performance currently studying BA studies, is how civilisation arranged in conjunction of traditional dance and Ancient Civilisations and develops and changes, with UWTSD’s partner music. The trip illustrated institution, Beijing Union the importance of University (BUU). crossBUU is one of the interdisciplinary largest universities in cultural work as well as Beijing and over several the importance of heritage years both institutions and archaeology for all have been working in disciplines of humanities. Associate Professor partnership on some projects. This important Thomas Jansen, Director collaboration includes the at UWTSD’s Confucius Annual Summer School Institute commented: “The which saw UWTSD’s purpose of the China trip Lampeter campus-based was to offer our students students visiting several a unique experience in archaeological excavation a country that is steeped in history and tradition sites. The students but has also experienced also attended many one of the most dramatic archaeology and heritage transformations in recent workshops provided human history. This is by BUU which gave what makes archaeology them an insight into and heritage such exciting conservation, restoration, subjects in China with Visiting Xi’an: Students saw the terracotta army and archaeology huge public impact. We had the privilege describes the trip as a which is something that practices from a Chinese I find particularly easy to attend workshops ‘wonderful experience’. perspective. This included to She said: “The Chinese visualise in a country such demonstrations of ceramic by experts from top exceeded as China.” and painting restoration institutions such as the Archaeology Amy Ferguson who is Palace Museum, the my expectations, due to by experts in their field. Metropolitan the range of activities; studying BA Archaeology During the two- Beijing week trip, the students Museum, the Summer especially such things was also on the trip. She added: “The trip had an opportunity to Palace Museum or the as visiting a current Provincial excavation site in Xi’an, to China was better than visit several of China’s Shaanxi most iconic landmarks History Museum in Xi’an. which was not something I expected it to be. It was While we hope to that I had expected to get amazing having something and heritage sites. In

to do every day as well as a chance to explore independently. There was never a dull moment and I didn’t expect to learn and see so many new things. The most unforgettable moment was the Great Wall which was breathtaking. Also, our lecture on ceramic restoration, smashing

bowls with hammers and piecing them back to together was a lot of fun. I didn’t think I’d enjoy it as much as I did but everyone involved did a great job of creating a nice atmosphere and providing us with amazing experiences and memories.”

NEW data published by the Education Workforce Council (EWC) has revealed that there are now more learning support staff than teachers registered to work in maintained schools in Wales. Of the over 80,000 people eligible to work in schools, further education, work-based learning and youth work settings in Wales, over 37,325 are registered for school support roles compared to 35,545 for school teacher roles. This highlights the changing nature of Welsh classrooms and how our children are educated. Statistics also show that the education workforce in Wales is mainly female, with over 80% of school staff and over 60% in other settings being women. The age profile of the school and youth work workforce is balanced, with around three-quarters of staff under the age of 50. In contrast, further education and work-based learning workforce is older, with 45% of registered college lecturers aged 50 and over. The ability of school teachers (33.3%) to speak Welsh exceeds

census figures (19%). However, figures in further education colleges and workbased learning are below the census. This shows the challenges ahead if Wales is to meet its aspiration of one million Welsh speakers by 2050. EWC Chief Executive, Hayden Llewellyn said: “This is the first time such extensive intelligence has been available about the whole of the education workforce in Wales. The data raises interesting questions for policymakers and workforce planning as we move towards a new curriculum, a greater focus on the Welsh language and other major reforms”.

Hayden Llewellyn: EWC Chief Executive

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EDUCATION

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Education | News

Exhibition: Stuart Pearson Wright - HALFBOY HALFBOY, a touring exhibition by Stuart Pearson Wright, is on show at the School of Art Gallery until November 22. Conceived in a South London NHS facility in 1975 using anonymous donor sperm, the artist has no way of discovering his father’s identity and, by extension, knowing his own. Initiated by photographs and personal memories, the works in this exhibition are an attempt to reconstruct his childhood to make some sense of this feeling of incompleteness. The paintings are imbued with Stuart’s portraitist’s eye for detail, bringing to life the minutiae of time and place. Viewers are transported from 1980s council estates to thorny depressions in the landscape, bearing witness to tragicomic scenes from the artist’s childhood and adolescence. Humour and pathos jostle for attention in this

autobiographical series of paintings and drawings which has been four years in the making. Neil Holland, Senior Curator at the School of Art, commented: “It seems odd to promote an exhibition by saying this, but Stuart Pearson Wright would rather not have had to paint the works in HALFBOY: he would rather have had a father to love him - to have grown up knowing his paternal grandparents, uncles, aunties, cousins. This aching void in his life and the attempt to address the profound sadness it causes him are given form in these painfully sad, funny, queasily beautiful paintings and drawings.” Stuart Pearson Wright said: “In 2007 I brought my exhibition Most People are Other People to Aberystwyth School of Art Gallery. It will be great to return there this year with my most recent body of work, HALFBOY.”

Half Boy and Half Sister: On exhibition at Aber’s School of Art Gallery Stuart Pearson Wright trained at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, during which time be won the BP Portrait Awards Travel Award (1998) awarded by the National Portrait Gallery (NPG). The subsequent exhibition at the NPG opened to rave

reviews and Wright was heralded ‘a Hogarth for our Times’ by Godfrey Barker of the Evening Standard. In 2000, a chance encounter with the actor John Hurt in Old Compton Street led to a small portrait on oak, which was subsequently bought

by the NPG along with a portrait of the Ballet dancer Adam Cooper. Earlier in the year, he won the BP Portrait Award for Gallus gallus with Still Life and Presidents and was awarded a commission to paint J. K. Rowling for the collection of NPG.

Recent exhibitions of Wright’s work were held at Riflemaker, London, in 2010, 2012 and 2013 and his works are in public collections including The British Museum, Government Art Collection, Ashmolean Museum, Fitzwilliam

Museum and many others. HALFBOY is on view at the School of Art Gallery, Buarth Mawr, Aberystwyth until November 22. The Gallery is open Monday to Friday, from 10 am to 5 pm. All are welcome and admission is free.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

BUSINESS

Business | News

MONEY MATTERS By Mark Jones, director of Carmarthen-based Clay Shaw Butler chartered accountants and business consultants

The government has announced that the taxman at HMRC collected a record sum of £5.4 billion in inheritance tax (IHT) during the 2018/19 tax year. The increase comes on the back of a 15% rise in the number of estates liable for IHT. Between 2015/16 and 2016/17, the number of estates paying IHT rose by 3,600 to 28,100. Rising asset values, particularly in regard to properties in London and the South East of England, have been a key factor behind the increased number of estates falling into the IHT net. The freezing of the tax-free nil-rate band threshold also played a key role. The residence nilrate band (RNRB) gives an additional allowance to people leaving their family home to direct descendants, such as children or grandchildren. The amount of relief is £150,000 for 2019/20, rising to £175,000 for 2020/21. Despite the increase in estates paying IHT, the tax only applies to 4.6% of deaths in the UK. The average amount of tax paid was £179,000. If you need advice on estate and IHT planning, then please contact the team at Clay Shaw Butler. In other news, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) there are ‘major gaps’ in the government’s no-deal Brexit guidance

for UK businesses. The BCC carried out a review of official government no-deal Brexit guidance for businesses and found that 31 of 36 critical areas are still marked amber or red, suggesting that businesses have ‘incomplete or insufficient information available to plan thoroughly for a no-deal outcome’. Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the BCC, said: “While the government has ramped up communication to businesses in recent weeks, there are still big gaps in the guidance available to help businesses to prepare for Brexit, with just days to go until 31 October. “Our business communities don’t want to see a disorderly nodeal exit on 31 October, which would lead to an overnight change in trading conditions. “Averting a messy and disorderly exit is still critical. “Businesses across the UK want politicians on all sides to come together and find a way forward – fast.” Tax calendar dates for your diary – October Saturday 19 - Tax and NI due under a 2018/19 PAYE Settlement Agreement Saturday 19 - PAYE, Student loan and CIS deductions are due for the month to 5th October 2019 Saturday 19 - PAYE quarterly payments are due for small employers for the pay periods 6th July 2019 to 5th October

2019 Thursday 31 Deadline for submitting ‘paper’ 2018/19 self assessment returns Thursday 31 Deadline for submission of 2018/19 self assessment returns if you require HMRC to compute your tax liability and/or if tax underpaid is to be collected by adjustment to your 2020/21 PAYE code You can find out more about money matters on the Clay Shaw Butler website (under our news for business section) h t t p : / / w w w. c l a y s h a w b u t l e r. c o m / news/latest-news-forbusiness We have a strong and experienced team with great local knowledge all geared-up to helping you get the very best from your finances – whether that is as an individual or as a business. We stay ahead of the game by putting great store by continual professional development for our staff. With Investors In People status at Clay Shaw Butler, we care passionately about making sure our staff have all the tools they need to serve you, our customers. Weblink - http:// w w w.clays haw butler. com The team at Clay Shaw Butler can be contacted on 01267 228500. The team at Clay Shaw Butler are on Twitter. Look for @ clayshawbutler.

Immigration changes to hit tourism

R E S E A R C H released by leading tourism trade association UKinbound and Canterbury Christ Church University shows that the Government’s proposed post-Brexit immigration reforms have the potential to severely destabilise the tourism industry in the UK, putting at risk an industry that contributes over £4 billion to the Welsh economy. The research includes a survey of Welsh tourism and hospitality businesses, undertaken by Canterbury Christ Church University with Qa Research, which highlights the critical impact that the Government’s proposed immigration reforms could have on the sector post-Brexit. The survey shows that: • 53% said that the proposals would impact negatively on their ability to continue to operate • 73% believe that the proposals would impact negatively on their ability to expand • 73% believe that the proposals would impact negatively on their ability to remain competitive • 54% of tourism businesses cited the limited domestic labour market as the key reason for the continued need for EU workers This new evidencebased research will help the tourism and hospitality sector to respond to consultations about future immigration policy when the UK leaves the European Union and the free movement ends. It draws from a wide review of the evidence, analysis of national workforce datasets and primary research with UK businesses through an online survey and indepth interviews. As the tourism and hospitality

Welsh tourism industry: Depends on EU citizens as locals shun jobs salary of £23k for sector is widely known to tourism hotspots, full-time workers. have a higher than average • q u a r t e r l y Joss Croft, Chief reliance on EU workers, independent reviews Executive of UKinbound the research provides a to ensure tourism commented: “This timely critical lens through which sectors are not research shows that the to view the potential adversely affected. Government must listen impact of a national skillsDr Karen Thomas, to the tourism industry based immigration system Director of the Tourism and before committing to an on the sector. Events Hub, Canterbury immigration system that The survey of UK Christ Church University runs the risk of forcing tourism and hospitality commented: “The businesses to close businesses in the report uncertainties surrounding throughout the UK. also highlights how the the Brexit negotiations Our tourism industry reporting of the reliance and the consultation over is vital to the UK economy of the sector on EU the Immigration White and EU workers are workers (approx. 10%) is Paper with the emphasis crucial to ensuring that this extremely conservative prioritising ‘highly success story continues. and such national averages skilled’ and ‘skilled’ We have a skills shortage mask the realities of many labour migration, have in the UK, caused not least tourism organisations. intensified the concerns by low levels of language A fifth of Welsh over the likely shape of skills and a lack of interest businesses reported that the UK’s immigration amongst UK nationals in EU workers make up more system after the end of the sector. than half their workforce. Free Movement. The Government Set against the results “EU workers must, as a first step, ensure of the survey, the study constitute a vital labour that language skills are shows that: pool for tourism and recognised as a key skills • shortages of ‘lowhospitality businesses. shortage and ensure that skilled’ labour are Our research demonstrates any future immigration as damaging to the that national reporting of system is rooted in what industry as ‘highthe reliance of the sector actually works and not in skilled’ on EU nationals masks populist soundbites.” • the picture of skills the realities of many Following on from needs is complex tourism and hospitality the publication of the and the distinction businesses in terms of the research, UKinbound and between ‘high-level’ scale of reliance, and the other industry associations and ‘low-level’ skills significant variations in are calling for: at the centre of the sub-sectoral, occupational • language skills to Immigration White and regional experiences. be added to the Paper appears to have We have identified occupation shortage little relevance to the a wide range of factors list and be exempt reality of skills gaps which together with from immigration and skills shortages a higher than average restrictions, across tourism and reliance on EU workers • if any salary threshold hospitality places the industry in is proposed that it • the proposed salary an extremely vulnerable be regionally set to threshold of £30k is position when faced with take into account significantly above the end of Free Movement lower salaries in key the sector’s average post-Brexit.”

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

BUSINESS

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45 the age to seek work/life balance

MORE than three in five UK adults (61%) favour a balanced work/ life ratio over a high salary, according to new data. The research from Hitachi Personal Finance also revealed it is those aged 45 and upwards that are most likely to seek out a better work-life balance. A staggering 82% of workers aged over 45 said they would always opt for a better work/life balance over a high salary, given the choice, versus 49% of under 45s. Those under 45 were less sure of whether the salary or the balance should take priority with a fairly even split down the middle. Almost half (48%) of 18-24’s, 55% of 25-34’s and 47% of those aged 35-44 opting for the higher income. Overall, just over half (51%) of those aged 18-44 would prefer the money over a better work/life balance. Self-employed (82%) and part-time workers (86%) are far more likely than those in full-time employment (53%) to favour a better worklife balance over a high

salary. This perhaps explains the upward trend in the number of workers entering self-employed roles and becoming their boss, with figures reaching a record 4.96 million selfemployed this year. Interestingly, ONS data also shows that self-employment is most prevalent within the 4554 age bracket, which correlates with this demographic’s desire for a more balanced work/life ratio. This data suggests that this is the age at which people realise their need for balance, stepping off of the corporate career ladder, even if it comes at a price. When it comes to earnings, interestingly the lower the annual salary, the more value is placed on maintaining a good work/ life balance, suggesting that health and happiness are taking precedence over earnings for much of the UK workforce. • Up to £9,999 pa (83% favour work/life balance compared to higher salary) • £10,000 - £19,999 pa (76%) • £20,000 - £29,999 pa

(75%) • £30,000 - £39,999 pa (70%) At the other end of the spectrum, there is a vast difference in attitude among workers earning £40,000 and upwards, with higher earners most likely to favour the bigger salary, rather than a good work-life balance. • £70,000 - £79,999 pa (77% favour higher salary compared to a good worklife balance) • £60,000 - £69,999 pa (74%) • £50,000 - £59,999 pa (66%) • £40,000 - £49,999 pa (64%) • Over £80,000 pa (56%) Looking to the future, more than half (51%) of those surveyed would rather retire earlier but have less income, than continue working and earning money. When asked what the main reasons were for this, freedom to travel (59%) and spending more time with loved ones (45%) came out on top. Commenting on the findings, Vincent Reboul, Managing Director at Hitachi Personal Finance,

said: “There are so many benefits of maintaining a good work/life balance, including better levels of efficiency and lower levels of absence, yet previous research showed that 40% of workers felt that they neglected other aspects of their lives because of work. Our research shows that now, the majority of Brits are prioritising their work/life balance, which is fantastic to see as this is so important for both mental and physical wellbeing. We’re seeing more and more people focusing on their personal goals and life experiences over money and material things, so this data proves that theme is continuing to grow. With more than four in five (82%) of over 45’s prioritising their work-life balance, it is evident that there is a need for this as we mature in our careers. The lack of people prioritising high salaries indicates that we are moving into an age where people have realised that money does not equal happiness and other hopes and dreams move to the forefront.”

FSB Chair Mike Cherry: Rethink needed to ensure access to staff UK SMALL firms believe it has become harder to recruit and retain EU staff since the Brexit referendum, according to new statistics from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). FSB’s research shows that one in five small employers have a team member from the EU and of these firms, over a

quarter (26%) believe that recruitment of EU staff has become more difficult since the outcome of the EU referendum. Just under a fifth (18%) of these firms believe that retention of EU staff has become more difficult. The research follows the release of the Government’s latest EU Settlement Scheme statistics which shows that only a half (1.5 million) of EU citizens have had their status approved. Pre-settled status numbers have jumped two per cent to 38%. According to the Office for National Statistics, there are currently around 2.3 million EU citizens working in the UK. Responding to the findings and the latest EU Settlement Scheme data, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Mike Cherry raised

concerns about the impact uncertainty is having on small firms’ ability to recruit and retain EU staff. He said: “European staff are absolutely critical for our small businesses with many relying on their skills and labour to grow, thrive and survive. This need flows across a wide range of sectors and skill levels – from careworkers, engineers, and to office workers, small employers need easy access to these workers. Wo r r y i n g l y, uncertainty over EU citizens living and working in the UK is now really starting to hamper small firm’s ability to plug these chronic skills gaps. Coupled with falling EU immigration figures, we are in danger of shrinking an already diminishing talent pool and exacerbating a widening skills gap in the UK. It is of vital importance

that the Government and EU secure a last-minute Brexit deal that guarantees the rights of EU citizens living and working in the UK and of UK citizens living and working in the EU. Small firms also need clear direction from the Government about what they are proposing for the UK’s future immigration system. As things stand, we are still in the dark about what this will look like and how it will work. This is particularly concerning for those small businesses in sectors like care and construction with a heavy reliance on EU employees and EU selfemployed individuals. A rethink is needed to ensure that small firms that rely on low-skilled workers and EU selfemployed individuals, can access the staff that they need when they need them.”

Small firms concerned about recruitment

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

POLITICS

Leave the EU, Political News

AS THE UK prepares to leave one union, the future of the union between the component nations of the UK has come under increasing scrutiny. Having tapped into nationalism to drive the Brexit vote, the nationalist genie is refusing to get back into the bottle and behave itself. Former PM Gordon Brown warned that the UK faced an existential threat to its future existence, but that threat is not only accepted but embraced by those devoted to leaving the EU. LEAVE ONE UNION, LEAVE ANOTHER

In September, a poll showed a majority among Northern Irish voters in favour of Irish reunification among all age groups, bar the over 65s. Statistically, the poll was a tie; however, the direction of travel among younger voters is striking. When a question was put on whether it was better for Northern Ireland to remain within the EU or the UK, the former won by a significant margin. Northern Ireland, as is widely forgotten, voted to remain within the European Union by a significant majority of votes cast. Scotland, as its main political party never ceases to remind, voted to remain within the European Union by an even larger one. Scottish opinion polls about independence show a small lead for an independent Scotland, with the generational gap even wider than in Northern Ireland. A majority of voters up to the age of 49 said they would vote for independence, with over 60% of those polled in the 18-24 age group favouring the move. The overall figure favouring independence is, ironically, 52%-

Growing support for independence: The Yes Cymru campaign gathers momentum Jon Coles

jon.coles@herald.email

48% of those polled. Respondents more readily accepted the proposition that Brexit gave impetus to calls for Scottish independence. Scottish voters are closely divided as to whether – if it were not possible to do both – it would be more important for Scotland to remain part of the UK, or to remain in the EU. While 43% would prioritise the Union, 45% would prioritise the EU. In Wales, the vote to leave the EU was 52.5% to 47.5% of votes cast. Unlike Scotland, Welsh public opinion historically opposes the idea of national independence by a huge margin. Wales is, however, fragmented on the issue. In the West and NorthWest of Wales support for Welsh independence is significantly higher, with one poll showing it as a marginal majority view. The proposition of independence is far less popular the further south or east in Wales you go. A YouGov poll

in 2013 showed 62% opposed and only 10% in favour. A poll by the same organisation after 2016’s referendum showed an upsurge in support for independence to a then-high watermark of 28%. Following polls showed support for independence slipping back. Then, in May this year, a YouGov polled showed 36% support for independence against 47% opposed. The remaining 17% polled were indifferent one way or the other. DISINTEGRATING UNIONISM Opinion polls suggest a drift towards remaining in the EU has become hardened in recent months, as the risk of a crash-out Brexit has inched closer. At the same time, those who supported leaving the EU, particularly in some regions of England, show preparedness to scrap the United Kingdom to get out of the EU. The trend first showed up came to prominence among leave supporting English Conservative voters last year. Asked by

YouGov whether the risk of returning sectarian violence in Northern Ireland was a price worth paying to get out the EU, a large majority said ‘yes’. In June this year, a poll of Conservative Party members carried out by the same polling company revealed an even more surprising result. Party members said they were willing to sacrifice another fundamental tenet of Conservative belief to bring about Brexit: unionism. Asked whether they would rather avert Brexit if it would lead to Scotland or Northern Ireland breaking away from the UK, respectively 63% and 59% of party members would be willing to pay for Brexit with the breakup of the United Kingdom. The full title of the Conservative party, Conservative and Unionist, is redundant if you take the word of members as definitive. Boris Johnson’s legitimacy as PM rests upon his selection by the same membership.

SHORING UP THE UNION The Scottish Government’s position on independence is unblinking. Following a scandal affecting the DUP, there is no government in Northern Ireland. There is also little likelihood of a return to the devolved government any time soon. That has left the Labour Party in Wales and their Conservative counterparts to defend – more or less – the status quo.

In a paper delivered in September for the Institute of Welsh Affairs, Glyndwr Cennydd Jones notes: ‘In today’s world, nearly two hundred states are underpinned by written constitutions. [T]he UK is not, but ironically it has involved itself in drafting constitutions for countless others during the last century’. Mr Jones also notes the content of an essay by David Melding, the Conservative AM, published earlier this year in which he wrote unionists and

The UK is ‘indefensible’: Says Adam Price

nationalists: ‘[W] ill always have to strike some bargain to manage and utilise the forces created by the geography, culture, and economic needs of the British Isles. Whether that now requires a formal, political union is open to question. For if Brexiteers can be European without remaining in the EU, then ’. Against the gathering momentum of the proindependence ‘Yes Cymru’ campaign, last week Wales’ First Minister, Mark Drakeford, weighed in. In a speech calling for fundamental reform of the UK’s constitutional arrangement, he said: “We need an urgent debate to secure fundamental constitutional reform of this United Kingdom towards a fairer, more equitable and more sustainable settlement.” His proposals included: • continued representation for Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and England in the House of Commons and a reformed upper House of Parliament with a membership, largely or wholly elected, which takes into account the multi-national character of the union • the relationship between the four

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POLITICS

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Leave the UK Political News

governments should be based on a partnership of equals, in a spirit of mutual respect • a root and branch reform of the existing intergovernmental mechanisms, including memoranda of understanding, to meet the new challenges of a post-Brexit world • involvement of devolved administrations in forming the UK government’s policy on international relations and trade • fair funding across the four UK nations • membership of the Supreme Court should reflect the make-up of the union • a constitutional convention to consider

future constitutional developments The last of those is a time-hallowed way of ensuring the indefinite maintenance of the status quo. None of his proposals is Labour Party policy. Responding to Mr Drakeford’s suggestions, Plaid Cymru said the Welsh Government should focus its efforts not on saving the union but on securing the tools needed to build ‘the Wales of tomorrow’ Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said: “It is disappointing – if not surprising – that the Labour Welsh Government continues to defend this

indefensible union. “The fact of the matter is that long term reform of the UK is futile. As we’re seeing at the moment through the Brexit chaos, this union allows the Tories to do their very worst to Wales. “The pooling and sharing of risks and resources is, frankly, a fanciful idea. Westminster has always been all risk and no reward for Wales. “As we saw last month, support for Welsh independence is at an all-time high. It is moving from the margins and into the mainstream – and no amount of reform will stop the march of a nation.”

Separate flags, separate nations: Can the United Kingdom survive Brexit?

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

HEALTH

Health | News Cell therapy: Safe to use in liver patients

Successful first trial for therapy

LIVER disease patients could one day benefit from a new cell therapy that has just completed its first clinical safety trial, led by researchers at the MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine

at the University of Edinburgh. The study, published in Nature Medicine, tested the potential treatment in patients with liver cirrhosis – where long term damage produces scarring – and found the

therapy had no significant adverse effects. Now the team is conducting the next stage of the trial to gauge the effectiveness of the treatment based on white blood cells, called macrophages, which are

key to normal liver repair. The next stage of the trial will measure whether the therapy helps the liver to reduce scarring and stimulate regeneration. The results should be known within the next two years. At present, the only successful treatment for end-stage liver cirrhosis – which claims around 14,000 lives in the UK each year (British Liver Trust) – is an organ transplant. The safety trial is a vital step forward in finding an alternative therapy. During the trial, scientists took cells from the blood of nine patients with the disease and turned them into macrophages, in the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service’s (SNBTS) cell therapy

facility. The new cells were then re-injected into the patient with the hope of repairing the damaged organ from within. The research was funded by the Medical Research Council and was conducted in partnership with the SNBTS and the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult. Causes of liver cirrhosis include infections such as hepatitis C, obesity, alcohol excess and some genetic and immune conditions. Professor Stuart Forbes, from the MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, who directed the trial, said: “Liver cirrhosis is a major healthcare issue in the UK and is one of the top five killers. The results from this first safety trial are

encouraging and we can now progress to testing how effective it is in a larger group of people. If this was found to be effective it would offer a new way to tackle this important condition.” Dr Robin Buckle, Chief Science Officer, Medical Research Council, said: “The goal of regenerative medicine is to drive the body to self-repair. This has the potential to provide long-lasting treatments for major and often untreatable health problems, such as liver cirrhosis. MRC is proud to fund this study which is an important first step in transferring cutting-edge science to the clinic. This will pave the way for testing the effectiveness of this new cell therapy

in patients who would otherwise require a liver transplant.” Pamela Healy, CEO of the British Liver Trust, said: “Across the UK we are facing a liver disease epidemic. The number of people affected has been rising at an alarming rate and liver disease is now the biggest killer of 35 to 49-year olds. Chronic liver disease occurs when the liver is damaged irreparably and becomes scarred (cirrhosis). At this stage, there are very few treatments available. This new innovative approach is an exciting development and could in the future reduce the need for transplantation. More research is needed and the next stage of this work will be to test the potential benefit for patients.”

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HEALTH

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Don’t dump it, donate it THOUSANDS of UK adults are choosing to bin household items or furniture that could be otherwise recycled, reused or donated, according to a new British Heart Foundation shops survey. The survey of over 2,000 first time buyers and renters revealed a third are sending their unwanted goods to landfill, rather than finding ways to give them a new lease of life. The leading charity retailer says this could be linked to the rise of ‘fast furniture’ – replacing items in good condition due to rapidly changing interiors trends. According to those surveyed, the most likely reasons for binning

unwanted items instead of recycling or donating were not having the means to transport it (20%), wanting to get rid of things as quickly as possible (16%) and finding it easier to take it to the dump (9%). Just under one in five UK adults aged 1624 (19%) admitted they wouldn’t know how to donate or re-cycle furniture and homeware. This was reflected in stats showing that just under four in five respondents aged 55+ (79%) have never thrown away furniture, electrical items and homewares in good enough condition that they could have been re-used, sold or donated compared to under three in five respondents aged 16-24 (55%).

The survey has been released as part of the BHF’s Reuse Revolution campaign, which is encouraging the nation to shop, upcycle and donate second-hand furniture. The charity says that millions of people – including firsttime buyers and renters could be benefiting from the unique, high-quality and affordable items that are available second hand. The survey also found that despite the financial pressures of buying a first home or taking on a new rental property, only two in five UK adults (41%) have bought secondhand furniture and homewares. Similarly, less than a third (31%) have taken advantage of second-hand sites

like eBay and Gumtree. This suggests that thousands of first-time buyers are overlooking the opportunity to find good quality, unique and affordable furniture through sources like second-hand furniture shops or via online resell outlets. Allison SwaineHughes, Retail Director at the BHF, said: “Last year the British Heart Foundation rescued 74,000 tonnes of items from landfill due to the generous donations of our supporters. “But we know that there are still so many more sofas, sideboards and beds out there that aren’t yet ready for the tip and could provide an ideal and affordable answer for those looking to furnish their home on

THIS World Sight Day, Hywel Dda University Health Board is raising awareness of the work of community optometrists and how they do more than help their patients choose the right pair of glasses. In a short video, Community Optometrist Heddwyn Davies has highlighted the range of services that he and his colleagues provide to their local communities, and the specialist skills and knowledge they bring to primary care-based eye care. Community eye care covers a spectrum of symptoms that many people may go to their GP for such as red-eye, a painful eye, double vision

and a foreign body in the eye. Llandeilo based Mr Davies, who is a Partner at Evans and Hughes Optometrists, said: “Whether you are looking for a routine eye examination or you have eye-related symptoms that require further and enhanced investigation, then your community optometrist should be your first port of call. Your optometrist has the knowledge, expertise, skills and equipment to help diagnose and manage eye conditions or refer if necessary for a second opinion. Many optometrists are upskilling and are providing enhanced services such as Low

Vision clinics and are also participating in shared care schemes, comanaged with consultants and professionals within the hospital eye care service. Remember if you have acute symptoms such as loss of vision, flashes and floaters, red eye, painful eye, foreign body in the eye to name but a few, then visit your optometrist who can potentially see you as an emergency under the Eye Health Examination Wales scheme.” Jill Paterson, Director of Primary Care, Community and Long-Term Care said: “Hywel Dda University Health Board is pleased to support our community optometrists in taking

forward the increasing range of services which can now be provided within our local communities. We recognise the importance of the additional training which our optometrists have undertaken in order to provide these services and hope that individuals experiencing acute eye care problems can approach their local optometrist with confidence, knowing that accredited optometrists will have the expertise to assess and treat a range of symptoms in the local community setting and prevent the need for a trip to hospital where this is deemed not to be required.”

Board highlights community eye care

Sustainability and recycling: Better for your health you think a budget. life-saving research into This month we are heart and circulatory asking the public to join disease. You can simply the Reuse Revolution call your local shop to and shop, upcycle or arrange a free donation.” donate their secondLast year, the BHF hand furniture while reused and recycled helping to raise funds for over 42,000 tonnes of

than in more ways than

furniture and electrical products including 185,000 sofas and 50,000 TVs. This helped prevent 53,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions being released into the atmosphere.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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Official WLTP Fuel Consumption for the: 2019 Suzuki range in mpg (l/100km): Low from 34.3-39.7 (5.1-9.8). Medium from 37.1-66.4 (4.3-7.7). High from 36.7-66.9 (4.3-7.7). Extra High 28.3-51.3 (5.6-10.0). Combined from 36.6-58.8 (4.8-8.8). CO 2 Emissions 89-170g/km.

All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which replaces the New European Driving Cycle test procedure (NEDC). All CO2 figures quoted are NEDC equivalent. This means the CO2 figures are based on the new WLTP test procedure but calculated (using a standard European calculation method) to allow comparison with the NEDC test procedure and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. All mpg figures quoted are WLTP figures. More information can be found by visiting: www.vehicle-certification agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. CO2 and fuel economy figures may vary according to factors such as driving styles, environmental conditions, load and accessories. Prices are correct at time of print, are subject to availability and may change. These offers are available to customers within the UK (excluding Channel Islands and Isle of Man). These offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Prices and specifications are correct at time of going to press. Models portrayed for illustration purposes only. ^Terms & Conditions Apply. Metallic paint at extra cost, (ask for details). ^ Plus Administration Fee of £85. #,000 Miles Per Annum, Excess mileage charges apply+VAT. Prices shown already have a discount applied.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

MOTORS

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Herald | Motors

Inflation hits cars’ sizes

Not so mini anymore: The Mini Cooper has grown by 73% DO YOU struggle a whopping 63% larger Design expert, Sam to squeeze your car than the original model Livingstone, who into parking spaces? launched in 1964. revealed the key factors Dread driving down The not-so Mini triggering expansion. country lanes? Don’t Cooper has also evolved He said: “Originally, worry, you aren’t the since the 1950s when cars on UK roads were only one. lorry drivers struggled designed, engineered Zuto analysed 14 to see the motor in and produced in the UK popular car models, from their side-view mirrors. — but today they come when they were first Thanks to safety from all around the launched, to present-day regulations it’s now 61% world. Notably in China to determine just how bigger than the original. and America, the largest much they have evolved Weighing in at cars markets, the roads in size and style. 865kg, the Fiat 500 has and freeways are much Looking at seen the biggest weight wider, meaning cars can everything from weight, increase, up 73% on the afford to be quite a bit length and height to 1957 model. bigger. As they aren’t wheelbase and luggage The only vehicle to designed for UK roads, capacity, nine out of the see a decrease in size is it’s a tight squeeze when 14 models have either the Land Rover Range they’re imported.” stayed the same or Rover, which is 3% “Safety is another increased in size, whilst shorter and 2% lighter reason why cars are just five have seen minor than the original. expanding in size. decreases. Crash beams, airbags, In fact, the top eight WHY ARE CARS and the crumple zones cars which have seen the GETTING BIGGER? need space, so cars have biggest increase in total grown in width and area size have expanded Now we know how length over the decades by up to 63%. much cars are increasing to accommodate these From the top eight in size, we wanted to find features — we end up models we analysed, we out exactly why is this with larger cars as a discovered that the Ford happening and what it result, but they are far Mustang has increased means for future design. safer than they were the most overall, now We spoke to Automotive twenty years ago.”

“Cars are also growing in size partly because manufacturers can charge more for a larger car, whilst the cost to produce today’s sophisticated small cars is not much less than for a larger car. Car finance deals make it much easier for us to own large, luxury models as it’s affordable. This wasn’t the case 30 or 40 years ago, when most people had to buy a car with cash upfront, and when a smaller car would be a lot more basic than a large luxury car.” Expert Sam says: “Rather than cars getting wider, we’re going to see them getting slightly taller. The rise of electric vehicles will impact on how cars change in size in the next 10 years. The battery in an EV sits under the seats in the car, meaning cars will grow in height by around 5-10 cm.”

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

2014 ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA,1.4 TB PROGRESSION 5d 120 BHP PETROL, BLUE 41553 MILES £7,250

2013 FIAT PANDA,1.2d MULTIJET 4x4 5d 75 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 62916 MILES £5,495

2010 MERCEDES-BENZ A CLASS,2.0 A180 CDI AVANTGARDE SE 5d AUTO 108 BHP DIESEL, BLUE, 68470 MILES £4,495

2011 MINI HATCH ONE,1.6 ONE PIMLICO 3d 97 BHP PETROL , BLUE, 66010 MILES £5,495

2008 AUDI A4,2.0 AVANT TDI SE DPF 5d 141 BHP DIESEL GREY, 149406 MILES £3,995

2012 FIAT PUNTO,1.4 EASY 5d AUTO 77 BHP PETROL, WHITE, 66587 MILES £3,495

2006 MERCEDES-BENZ B CLASS,1.5 B150 SE 5d 94 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 57940 MILES £2,995

2005 MINI HATCH ONE,1.6 ONE (PEPPER PACK / PANORAMIC ROOF) 3d 89 BHP PETROL, BLACK, 101568 MILES £2,250

2013 AUDI A4,2.0 TDI SE TECHNIK 4d AUTO 174 BHP DIESEL, BLACK, 71170 MILES £9,995

2012 FORD FIESTA,1.2 ZETEC 5d 81 BHP PETROL, GREEN, 68787 MILES £4,750

2011 MERCEDES-BENZ C CLASS,1.8 C180 BLUEEFFICIENCY SE 4d AUTO 155 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 44595 MILES £8,295

2015 MG 3,1.5 3 STYLE VTI-TECH 5d 106 BHP PETROL, BLACK, 46317 MILES £4,995

2008 AUDI TT,2.0 TFSI 3d 200 BHP PETROL, BLUE, 144406 £4,995

2017 FORD FIESTA,1.0 ST-LINE NAV 3d 139 BHP PETROL, GREY, 16662 MILES £10,495

2013 MERCEDES-BENZ C CLASS,2.1 C220 CDI BLUEEFFICIENCY EXECUTIVE SE 2d AUTO 168 BHP DIESEL, SILVER, 35854 MILES £10,995

2007 NISSAN 350 Z,3.5i GT 300 V6 3d 297 BHP PETROL, GREY, 105000 MILES £6,495

2009 AUDI TT,2.0 TFSI 3d 200 BHP PETROL, WHITE, 101975 MILES £6,995

2013 FORD FOCUS,1.6 ZETEC TDCI 5d 113 BHP DIESEL, RED, 91348 MILES £5,750

2014 MERCEDES-BENZ C CLASS,2.1 C250d BLUETEC AMG LINE PREMIUM PLUS 5d AUTO 204 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 90000 MILES £14,995

2017 NISSAN MICRA,1.2 ACENTA 5d 79 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 17000 MILES £7,495

2012 BMW 3 SERIES,2.0 318D SE 4d 141 BHP DIESEL, SILVER, 105454 MILES £6,995

2010 FORD KA,1.2 ZETEC 3d 69 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 106566 MILES £2,495

2013 MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS,2.1 C220 CDI BLUEEFFICIENCY AMG SPORT 2d AUTO 170 BHP DIESEL, BLACK, 85000 MILES £10,495

2017 NISSAN X-TRAIL,1.6 DCI ACENTA XTRONIC (SMART VISION PACK) 5d AUTO 130 BHP DIESEL, BLACK, 19286 MILES £15,995

2009 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA,2.4 LS 5d 135 BHP PETROL, BLACK, 77068 MILES £3,995

2016 FORD RANGER,3.2 WILDTRAK 4X4 DCB TDCI 1d AUTO 197 BHP *** NO VAT !!! *** DIESEL, GREY, 29900 MILES £21,495

2008 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS CLASS,3.0 CLS 320 CDi 4d AUTO 222 BHP DIESEL, BLUE, 110729 MILES £5,495

2006 PEUGEOT 107,1.0 URBAN 3d 68 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 68030 MILES £2,250

2013 CITROEN C3,1.4 EXCLUSIVE PLUS 5d 89 BHP PETROL, BLACK, 33338 MILES £2,995

2007 FORD TRANSIT,2.4 350 LWB SHR 15 SEATER 1d 115 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 90537 MILES £3,995 + VAT

2009 MERCEDES-BENZ M CLASS,3.0 ML350 CDi BLUEEFFICIENCY SPORT 5d AUTO 224 BHP DIESEL, BLUE, 84967 MILES £10,495

2004 PEUGEOT 206,1.6 COUPE CABRIOLET S 2d 110 BHP PETROL, BLUE, 57171 MILES £1,995

2008 CITROEN C3 PICASSO,1.6 PICASSO SELECTION HDi 5d 91 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 50749 MILES £4,995

2015 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT 1.6 200 P/V 1d 74 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 27366 MILES £7,995 +VAT

2006 MERCEDES-BENZ M CLASS,3.0 ML320 CDi 4WD SE 5d AUTOMATIC 222 BHP DIESEL, SILVER, 98359 MILES £6,495

2016 PEUGEOT 208,1.0 ACCESS A/C 5d 68 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 16020 MILES £6,995

2015 CITROEN C4 CACTUS,1.6 BLUE HDI FEEL 5d 98 BHP DIESEL, PURPLE, 52199 MILES £6,995

2001 HONDA CBR,1137cc CBR 1100 XX SUPER BLACKBIRD PETROL, RED, 50050 MILES £2,250

2008 MERCEDES-BENZ M CLASS,3.0 ML 320 CDi EDITION 10 4WD 5 d AUTO 222 BHP DIESEL, BLACK, 85579 MILES £8,795

2017 RENAULT CLIO,1.1 DYNAMIQUE NAV 5d 73 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 19251 MILES £7,995

2007 CITROEN C4 PICASSO,2.0 5 VTR PLUS EGS I 16V 5d AUTO 139 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 85540 £2,995

2016 HYUNDAI I10,1.0 SE 5d 65 BHP PETROL, BLUE, 32196 MILES £5,995

2013 MERCEDES-BENZ SLK,2.1 SLK250 CDI BLUEEFFICIENCY AMG SPORT 2d AUTOMATIC 204 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 53000 MILES £13,495

2008 RENAULT CLIO,1.1 RIP CURL 16V 5d 75 BHP PETROL, GREY, 79817 MILES £2,295

2015 CITROEN DISPATCH,2.0 1200 L2H1 ENTERPRISE HDI 1d 126 BHP DIESEL, WHITE. 46481 MILES £7,995 +VAT

2006 KIA SPORTAGE,2.0 XE CRDI 5d 139 BHP DIESEL, SILVER, 126826 MILES £2,495

2015 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER,2.1 313 CDI LWB 1d 129 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 139279 MILES £9,495 + VAT

2010 RENAULT CLIO,1.1 I-MUSIC 16V 3d 74 BHP PETROL, SILVER, 97913 MILES £2,495

2014 FIAT DUCATO,2.3 35 MAXI LUTON H/R MULTIJET 1d 129 BHP DIESEL, WHITE, 75560 MILES £8,995 + VAT

2011 KIA VENGA,1.4 CRDI 2 ECODYNAMICS 5d 89 BHP DIESEL, GREY, 72334 MILES £3,795

2007 MINI1.6 COOPER S (CHILI PACK) 3d 172 BHP PETROL, BLACK, 81051 MILES £3,750

2010 RENAULT MEGANE,1.4 DYNAMIQUE TOM TOM TCE 2d 130 BHP PETROL, WHITE, 57494 MILES £5,495 MILES

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

MOTORS

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Born to be mild MORE than 1 in 4 Welsh people now say it’s time to change the law to allow electric scooters on roads, as 49% say they are considering purchasing an electric scooter for themselves. The new research of 1,000 Brits from electronics distributor reichelt elektronik also found that while electric scooter ownership in Wales is currently low, 37% expect uptake to greatly increase in the future. IS IT TIME TO CHANGE THE LAW? 29% of Welsh people now say that electric scooters should be made legal on public roads. This figure coincides with

more than a quarter of the whole country who feel the same, adding to the mounting pressure for the government to allow the increasingly commonplace vehicles on the roads. 25% want scooters to remain illegal on public roads, while 45% are yet to make their mind up. However, 13% say that they want more oversight from police when it comes to electric scooters on roads, and of those surveyed who want to keep scooters off public roads, all cited safety concerns as their biggest worry. Of those that don’t own an electric scooter now, 24% said they would be convinced to buy one if the current laws

Herald | Motors

on their use changed. Meanwhile, 18% said that the price of electric scooters would need to fall, and 31% would want to see dedicated electric scooter lanes on roads or pavements. WHAT’S DRIVING DEMAND? 37% believe that electric scooter usage will increase in the future, although 24% said that scooters were a passing craze and that they expected no one to be riding them in 25 years’ time. Demand is expected to increase in the product category, and interest is continuing to grow. 18% of those considering buying a scooter said they wanted one because it’s a more

portable and flexible way to travel, while 16% said they wanted one so they would drive less and reduce their impact on the environment. 12% currently believe that electric scooters have a bad image, despite the resistance to making them legal at levels of government. HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT Reichelt’s research also investigated why Welsh people were increasingly interested in electric scooters. 16% said that they saw electric scooters as an important way to help reduce their impact on the environment in the long run. However, respondents were more

positive about the environmental benefits of switching to electric cars and electric bicycles. Thomas Kruse, product manager at reichelt elektronik,

comments: “Electric scooters are one great way to help people reduce their impact on the environment, and can contribute to cleaner and greener cities. However,

consumers need more clarity on the current laws, to ensure they are making the right purchasing decisions, and so they are not caught out by current regulations.”

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

MOTORS

Herald | Motors

Award for Kia e-Niro THE ALL electric Kia e-Niro has been named ‘Car of the Year’ 2019 by the Northern Group of Motoring Writers. This is Kia’s fourth ‘Car of the Year’ award from the Northern Group, following wins in 2011 with the Picanto, 2012 for the cee’d and most recently, the Stinger in 2018. Members of the Northern Group were asked to vote for their favourite vehicles from a long list of newly launched models. The list was cut down to the top five vehicles before members of the Northern Group met in Yorkshire in September to determine which vehicle was worthy to win the title of ‘Northern Car of the Year’. The Kia e-Niro won with members awarding the car 52 votes.

Jonathan Gravell, General Manager of the Gravells Group commented; “It’s great to see the e-Niro winning another fantastic award - it’s really proving to be a popular car! We’ve seen a surge of customers visiting Gravells to enquire about the e-Niro and make the switch to a greener vehicle.” C o m m e n t i n g on the award, Andy Harris, Chairman of the Northern Group of Motoring Writers said: “After much deliberation and a wellattended driving day, The Northern Group of Motoring Writers has chosen its Car of the Year. The Kia e-Niro scooped the top spot due to its combination of class-leading electric range, everyday practicality and topnotch build quality.

Affordable pricing is the icing on the cake and a rapidly growing waiting list means the car-buying public would seem to agree.” The Kia e-Niro merges crossoverinspired design with a class-leading driving range of 282 miles, zeroemissions driving and enjoyable performance. It includes a nextgeneration electric powertrain, using new production technologies developed specifically for Kia electric vehicles. The 64kwh battery can be charged to 80 per cent in as little as 54 minutes. Gravells Kidwelly, Narberth, Swansea, Bridgend and Narberth stock a wide range of new and used Kia vehicles, including the Niro Plug-In Hybrid, with prices starting at £31,945.

The Kia e-NIRO: Won ‘Car of the Year’ award

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THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

LETTERS

bbc repeat ‘facts’ off DEAR EDITOR, I was recently amazed to view on a BBC 2 repeat of ‘Digging for Britain’, Prof Alice Roberts misconstruing the early history of Britain, especially that of the Welsh people and their language. The programme was filmed in 2017 from Hadrian’s Wall to Fife, north of Edinburgh. She continually referred to the ‘savage Picts and civilised Romans’ of that region of South West Scotland. At no time did she state that the large area comprising the Kingdom of Strathclyde [Ystrad Clud], Rheged in Galloway, Gododdin in Lothian and Elmet [Elfed] in West Yorkshire was...and is...’ Yr Hen Ogledd’ [The Old North] to us Welsh. Not surprising! The Gaelicspeaking Scots did not come from their native Ireland, nor the Anglo-Saxons from their native Germany, until after the Romans had left Britain in AD 410...nearly 300 years after Hadrian’s Wall was built! When constructed in the First Century, the natives spoke Britonnic or Early Welsh on both sides! When is that ever said on innumerable historical programmes? The people we call ‘Y Gododdin’, were the ‘Votadini’ to the Romans. They occupied Manaw Gododdin from Hadrian’s Wall to the Antonine Wall at the Firth of Forth. So they formed a friendly buffer state in an alliance with the Romans. ‘Savage Picts’ were much further north in what is now Scotland. So to find Roman goods, signifying trade and friendship, in graves in Fife, just across the Firth of Forth, is not in the least surprising. Stirling, not far from there, was known as ‘Strevelin’ even as late as 1124 and is said to derive from the Welsh Ynys Tre Felin [ the meadow of the mill steading ] according to William Oxenham’s brilliantly informative book, ‘Welsh Origins of Scottish Place-Names’ [Carreg Gwalch]. Our oldest existing Welsh poetry, the brilliantly alliterative, strict-metre ‘Y Gododdin’, by Aneirin, was composed in the Welsh-speaking kingdom of Mynyddog Mwynfawr in Din Eidin [now called Edinburgh] circa AD 600.

When is that ever featured in English history on BBC TV? Professor Alice Roberts does Wales a great disservice by not mentioning any of this. Born in England, she was educated at the University of Wales College of Medicine. She is a former G.P in Wales... but no historian! So why is she involved in BBC history programmes? Why don’t our Welsh historians ever speak up? I invite them to reply to this letter! Yours faithfully, Lyn Jenkins Cardigan

The grants are only available to establish older people’s groups such as lunch clubs, forums or even bowls clubs. Our limited fund is usually oversubscribed so applicants need to make sure they match our eligibility criteria. For full details of the eligibility criteria and to download an application form please visit our website: w w w. a g e c y m r u . o rg . u k / wintercelebrationgrants or call our office for a paper copy of the application on 029 2043 1555. The deadline for applications is Friday 8 November 2019. Age Cymru

Winter Celebration Grants

age at work

DEAR SIR We wish to invite local older people’s groups to bid for grants of up to £200 to help organise winter celebrations. We know that loneliness and isolation can have a devastating impact on older people, particularly at winter time, so we’re encouraging local older people’s groups to organise social events or celebrations anytime between December 2019 and the end of February 2020. The Winter Celebration grants programme is open to applicants from across Wales. It’s hoped that through this initiative, older people will have an opportunity to meet new friends and build upon existing friendships. In previous years our grants have helped fund a variety of events including Christmas lunches, Chinese New Year celebrations and theatre trips.

DEAR SIR Age Cymru and Business in the Community Cymru have teamed up to deliver the Age at Work programme across Wales. Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, the five-year programme will support people aged 50+ to remain in the workplace and plan for later working life as well as encourage businesses in Wales to become more agefriendly in retraining and recruiting older workers. To highlight the many benefits of employing older workers (aged 50+) and having a multi-generational workforce, we would love to hear about the positive experiences of your older readers in the workplace and how their employer may have supported them with, for example, re-training or flexible working. And we’d like to know whether training and development opportunities are being offered to workers of all ages. We’d also like to hear about the reasons why older

people continue working. Is it simply about money or is it also about maintaining social networks? For an informal chat about their experiences as an older worker or as an employer taking positive actions to support their older workers, your readers may call me on 029 2078 0061. They may also download our simple survey in either paper format or via Survey Monkey at www. agecymru.org.uk. Thank you for helping us with this important project. Jill Salter, Age at Work Programme Manager

one amongst many

DEAR SIR Present western materialistic culture, without rational formal philosophy or religious levels of thought, makes it difficult for adults to discover the abstract ethical values of this universe. However, we still have access to a slightly less convincing lesson for sincere people, the moral progression of history, which some historians attempt to obfuscate. Under the Royal Duke of Clarence, the British Parliament voted for the slave trade for the colonies. For 18 years, until 1807, William Wilberforce fought against the slave trade, and for a further 26 against slavery, when that became a crime, when he died in 1833. William was only one amongst many, with a somewhat flawed character, but he deserved to become a timeless example to us all, of the majesty of a life sacrificed for others, and the consequences are there to be seen. Many fine coloured people assisted William, in the struggle to reach bigoted minds. That leader of a nation, Abraham Lincoln, gained from William, and all coloured people owe him a debt because, to some limited amount, within his ability, he freed them from a life of torture. But those humans who benefitted most of all from the life of Wilberforce, were white people, just like me, today, whom he saved from inheriting the truly despicable values of the

Duke of Clarence, which would have poisoned my life also unless someone had inspired me to see a more glorious vision. There are more profound, intellectual, metaphysical methods to comprehend this universe, but Wilberforce assisted every single person throughout all future time, to find Justice built into human progress. Name and Address supplied

BIGOTED VOTERS

DEAR SIR A large number of people insist on giving me their fixed opinion, that all politicians are mad, bad or dishonest, but these citizens fail to understand that this universal condemnation, from them, of other people, can be seen as serious criticism of their own judgement. A large number of people insist on giving me their fixed opinion, that all politicians are mad, bad or dishonest, but these citizens fail to understand that this universal condemnation, from them, of other people, can be seen as serious criticism of their own judgement. Every intelligent person recognizes, that if I boast proudly that, ‘I am a lot smarter than all these famous people, to know so much more than all their conflicting beliefs.’, this is most easily explained by the fact that I am a bigot, glued to my own personal opinion, uninterested in all other many wrong ones. If I were smart enough to assess everybody, that would mean that I could perceive intelligently, the many distinctions among them. The very fact that I lump them all together, is proof that I do not understand any of them, and there is only one reason for that, my worship for my own opinion, which has never been matched against anything valuable. The Presidents of the USA, Turkey, Hungary and the PM of Britain, have all been selected by voters exactly like that, who do not respect the human thought process but use their unstable emotions, to choose similar loudmouthed celebrities to rule the world, as an extension of themselves. Anonymous

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

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Spooky celebrations and events at National Park THIS half-term a creepy concoction of events and activities will be taking place at all three visitor attractions run by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority. Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, Castell Henllys Iron Age Village and Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre will all be hosting Halloween-themed events, from witch hunts to ghost tours and encounters with woodland fairies. Events at Carew Castle and Tidal Mill will include Fireside Tales on 19, 20, 26 and 27 October, where guests will be invited to sit around a fire and listen to spooky tales and stories of brave knights and beautiful princesses. For those interested in honing their sorcery skills, The Carew School of Witchcraft and Wizardry will open its doors to new pupils on 29, 30 and 31 October. The syllabus will include wandmaking, discovering spirit animals, spellcasting and broomstick agility. For those in costume, there will be a competition at noon. Ghost Tours of the Castle will also take place during this period. At Castell Henllys

the thinning of the veil between this world and the next will be celebrated on 31 October with Samhain – Haunted Henllys. With a variety of spooky activities on offer, including a Ghost Walk, the day will end with the spectacle of the burning of the wicker man. Scary Fairy Fun on 28 and 30 October offers visitors the opportunity to meet the woodland fairies at Castell Henllys and take part in activities such as facepainting, storytelling and enchanted woodland crafts. Those of a magical mindset might also be interested in attending Wizards and Witches on 29 October and 1 November, with magical crafty activities organised throughout the day. Between 20 October and 3 November, Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre in St Davids will host a Halloween Trail around the grounds and centre. The Trail will cost £2 per sheet and will run between 10 am - 4 pm each day. For those seeking a less hair-raising halfterm experience, places are still available for the Wildfowl of the Western Cleddau walk arranged to take place at Little Milford between 1 pm

Join the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry: at Carew Castle and Tidal Mill

- 3 pm on 26 October. Guided by a Ranger, this gentle stroll along the banks of the Cleddau will offer the opportunity to see wading birds, such as the curlew and redshank. Children must be supervised and no dogs are allowed. If culture holds greater appeal than the occult, two exhibitions, A Celebration of Contemporary Welsh

Painting and The Cabinet of Curiosities will be hosted at Oriel y Parc during October and November, featuring top contemporary Welsh artists and members of the Carmarthen Artists’ Network respectively. For details of all the events taking place in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park visit www. pembrokeshirecoast. wales/events.

Burry Port Opera to entertain The chance to see a real Italian delight. Burry Port Opera are presenting Donizetti’s Don Pasquale this month on October 23, 25 & 26. A cleverly crafted and melodic show with wonderful arias and ensembles, it’s a light hearted domestic drama and so something we can all relate to; some things never change!

Uncle and nephew pitting their wits against each other to see who gets the wealthy widow. Audiences will remember Sven Fuerst from excellent previous performances with the society in the title role, with another friend of the society James McOran Campbell, both directing and singing the role of Dr Malatesta. Lucy Mellors takes on the great role of Norina,

a delight and challenge to sing. Continuing the excellent tradition of promoting and supporting Welsh talent, Rhodri Prys Jones plays the nephew Ernesto having already played the role at Longbourne Opera Festival. Burry Port Opera are delighted to have secured the commitment from all 4 of our visiting soloists and with

excellent support from Graham Freeman as the notary, its promises to be a production not to miss. A limited number of tickets will be available on the door, on 01554 833518 or from the wonderful chorus members. Of course you could pay £195 for a ticket and go to Covent Garden instead but I’m sure you won’t have as much fun.

Beggars Reach Hotel, Burton, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire SA73 1PD T 01646 600700 • Email stay@beggars-reach.com • www.beggars-reach.com

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019 ENTERTAINMENT

The Herald reviews

Our Top three

dly n e i r f Family Halloween movies

Ghostbusters: second in our countdown

IF there’s something strange in your neighbourhood, who are you gonna call? Ghostbusters, the answer is clearly Ghostbusters, we all know this. It feels like Ghostbusters is more than just a film, but a genuine cultural phenomenon that most people are aware of, even if they haven’t seen it. The original 1984 was so far ahead of its time that it somehow still feels fresh and modern some 35 years later. Even a poorly received 1989 sequel (that I secretly think is up there with Empire in regards to great 80’s sequels) couldn’t take the shine of this film and the absolutely fantastic cartoon series ‘The Real Ghostbusters’ would only ever cement its place in legend as Ghostbusters weren’t stuck on the silver screen, they were right there on TV....and the voice of Garfield was Venkman. Perfect. Anyways, back to the original: Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), and Egon Spengler (the late Harold Ramis) are scientists at Columbia University investigating

the paranormal. Following their first encounter with a ghost manifesting at the New York Public Library, the dean fires them and dismisses the credibility of their research. In response, they create

seeing a creature that utters a single word: “Zuul.” Soon their business booms as paranormal activity increases across New York City. To cope with demand, they hire a fourth member, Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson). Venkman meets

is the film that forced Murray, Aykroyd and Ramis into the public conscience more than their stint on SNL. The special effects still hold up today and Slimer still looks absolutely top notch. Don’t be afraid of checking out the “all female’ Ghostbusters

“Ghostbusters”, a paranormal investigation and elimination service. They convert a disused firehouse, develop high-tech equipment to capture and contain ghosts, and convert a combination car into the “Ectomobile” to support their business. Seeing their television ad, a skeptical cellist, Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver), is initially dismissive but reluctantly calls them after a paranormal encounter in her kitchen. Recounting the event, she describes opening her refrigerator and

with Dana. He shares that Zuul was a demigod worshiped as a servant to “Gozer the Gozerian,” a shape-shifting god of destruction. He convinces Dana to discuss her case further over dinner. However, when Dana returns home, she is supernaturally assaulted and possessed by Zuul.... Full of scares, full of jokes and some truly great, tense action scenes. Ghostbusters is right up there at the very top of family friendly Halloween films. The whole cast, Hudson included, shine out in this movie and it

film from 2016 if you are after a bit more busting for your bucks. If you have kids I think the more modern jokes might land a little better and it is paced slightly better too. It’s also nowhere near as bad as the internet tried to make everyone believe, no it’s not a timeless classic but it is a re-telling of Ghostbusters for the 21st century, not some feminist take-over as fanboys thought it was. Either way, Bustin’ is a surefire way to get everyone in the spooky spirit and it’s sitting pretty at 2 on our Halloween countdown.

Andy Chandler

andy@herald.email

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019 Like us on Facebook facebook.com/thepembrokeshireherald

El camino:

a breaking bad movie: review

El Camino: on Netflix now WHEN Breaking Bad drew to a satisyingish close, it was hard to see exactly what story was left to tell. Walter White lay dead on the floor of a meth lab and Jesse Pinkman was speeding into the night, finally free of his concrete cage but also free from Heisenberg’s deadly games. Fast forward 6-ever-so-long years and El Camino picks up immediately where ‘Felina’ stopped, literally. We find Jesse Pinkman still tearing along the same desert road, in the same El Camino, into the same night. His initial elation at being free is shortlived as he spots flashing red and blue lights on the horizon and hides in the car. It’s clear from the get-go that this freedom that Jesse felt on the very cusp of at the end of Breaking Bad isn’t just waiting for him at the end of the road, he’s done too much for a simple ‘happy ever after’. What happens next is the best continuation of a series I’ve ever seen. Strong, confident and utterly gorgeous to look at, El Camino is a triumph, a delight for Breaking Bad fans and a tense, noir-esque thriller with an intense feeling of tension throughout that might do just enough to appeal to people out there who haven’t watched an episode of the show leading up to this. Jesse’s predicament is made clear through a series of flashback’s that, while never feeling

boring for long-term fans, act as a way for newbies to get the gist of what’s going on pretty quickly. It’s important at this point to make clear that it is friendly for newbies, but at the very heart of it, this is one for Breaking Bad fans. Breaking Bad Hermanos will laugh, woop, shed a tear and feel their hearts race as Jesse’s plight for freedom takes twist after twist. Jesse’s journey to freedom brings him full circle in El Camino, Skinny Pete isn’t the only character to get their moment, let me put it that way. Actors reprise their roles left and right in this and it’s a testament to Vince Gilligan that a lot of the cast would make time in their schedules for what are, in essence, cameo roles in a character piece about the only man left standing, but broken, when Breaking Bad ended. El Camino is all about desperation and what some people are driven to do to preserve themselves physically and mentally when the proverbial hits the fan. The flashback’s are always welcome and fit into the story that’s being told and, more crucially, these flashbacks don’t mess around with or shoehorn anything into the existing lore of the show. El Camino is the perfect next chapter for Jesse Pinkman and may just be most beautifully shot anything I’ve seen in a long time. 5/5

ENTERTAINMENT

Mid Wales Opera returns

On Saturday, November 9 at 7:30pm and for the first time in over a decade, Mid Wales Opera (MWO) returns to Theatr Felinfach with a radical reworking of John Gay’s 1728 ballad opera The Beggar’s Opera. Join Mrs. Peachum, her daughter Polly and the Beggar in their bawdy, ballsy take on relationships and the relative virtues of virginity. Horrified to learn of Polly’s illicit marriage to an errant highwayman, Mrs. P contrives to get the rascal hanged so Polly can claim the reward. Loyalty and love are put to the test as murder, rage and fury drive this rumbustious tragicomedy towards its conclusion. Will things really be left so unhappily and will Polly remain true to her man and abandon her mother to the lure of London Gin? MWO are delighted to premiere this new one act opera, adapted by Richard Studer, in a new musical version by Jonathan Lyness, accompanied by MWO’s Small Stages Ensemble of four musicians, a cast of three singers including the brilliant Northern Irish mezzo Carolyn Dobbin as Mrs Peachum (Madame Popova, The Bear, Small Stages 2017) and Welsh soprano Alys Mererid Roberts as her feckless daughter Polly. Carolyn Dobbin was in

the last production that MWO brought to Theatr Felinfach in 2008, which was Tales of Hoffman. As with John Gay’s original ballad opera, the score is bursting with melodies both familiar and new, from Lillibolero to Greensleeves. MWO’s restoration comedy is filled with as many musical twists as there are in the plot. Though the trio of characters may live in the gutter, musically they are looking to the stars... During the second half and following the interval the team will sing a medley of delights

Country Music Fundraiser

The popular county music duo Memphis Belle will be performing at Canolfan Hermon on Saturday, October 19 starting at 8pm. The evening will be a charity fundraising event for the hall maintenance fund and there will be a

grand raffle drawn on the evening. The entry is £5 at the door with a prize for the best-dressed country music outfit. The evening will be filmed by Cwmni Da of S4C as they roll out new local talent programmes.

exploring love and marriage in all its forms - a curtain raiser for the Spring 2020 Main Stage tour of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. MWO’s Small Stages

brings live opera to the heart of communities across Wales and the Borders, touring to theatres, village halls and community venues. Tickets are available

from the Box Office on 01570 470697 or Online at theatrfelinfach.cymru. Tickets are £15 for Adults, £14 for OAPs and Members and £10 for Students and Children.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

Double Crossword CRYPTIC Choose possibly to take Lee to court (5) 8

It’s rough being right in a mess! (5)

1 2

Urchin who hasn’t nished playing

(5)

4 Galatea’s keeping us waiting (4) Tough master embraced by a female 5 Rings you can get from most (2-3) chemists (6) Bit of a grimace from a Scot (3)

6 D octrine you can read up (5)

Was Gertrude a mug? (5)

Clip one unfairly in a game (7)

Full of pith, yet not vegetable (5)

Continental street of sadness (3)

Goes into business to create upsets (4,2) Barely runs on narrow lines (7)

Goddess who lives again? (4)

French name for a bit of a renegade The fear possibly associated with a white one? (7) Try to get free perhaps? (3,3)

Strain a gut? (3)

Possibly early bird at the egg farm Canada’s ratable system (7) Worried about the future? (5)

17 19 20 21

(4)

Managed to participate in athletics? Possibly restless peelers? (7)

Charlie has half an hour with the Eastern oral centre (5)

Where some Belgians are in the

One corner in heaven that’s just like QUICK

In historical times, wonderfully

Woody ways into a well-defended

Centre of revolution (3)

green outskirts of the City (7) place (6)

It doesn’t agree with the number 27 Impertinent, say, about saints (5) 28 Good times for cash payments on a tin opener (3) around Tuesday (5) 36 Something a woman’s burnt? (5) 30 It’s essentially oily and owery (5) 37 A canoe could be lost in it (5) 32 A fantastic wine? (4) 38 A long piece can still be comic (5) 33 A bit shy, but heroes use it (3) 35

Solution to this week’s puzzles will be printed here next week

TEL:01792363699

Across 3 Explosion (5) , 8 Conspiracy (5), 10 Fertile spot (5), 11 Groove (3), 12 Jeans fabric (5), 13 Permits, tolerates (7), 15 Post o (5), 18 Managed (3), 19 Former currency (6), 21 Afternoon show (7), 22 Sully (4), 23 Public pool (4), 24 Shortage (7), 26 Insight (6), 29 Small feline mammal (3),

Last week’s answers Cryptic Across:

Beverage

8, Biased

10, Santa

3 3

4, Deride

13, W-and

7 14 Rodent (3), 16 Deserve (5), 17 Sharply hooked claw (5), 19 Aquatic bird (7), 20 Academy Award (5), 21 Take away (5), 23 Word for word (7), 24 Indicate, designate (6), 25 Vehicle (3), 27 Tree type (5), 28 Legendary king (5), 30 Naked gures (5), 32 US coin (4), 33 In good health (3)

31 Tree sap (5), 32 Cautious (7), 34 Senior member (5) , 35 To free (3), 36 Moroccan capital (5), 37 Detests (5), 38 Chairs (5) Down 1 Farm buildings (5), 2 Unstudied (7), 4 Fibs (4), 5 Private evening party (6), 6 Domesticates(5), 7 Finger or toe (5), 9 Unopened ower (3), 12 Inhabitant (7) ,

9 2

Latest thing in ties (5)

velvet (5)

Quickly get out in the alley! (7)

money, presumably (5)

23 24

Sudoku

Fill the grid with the number 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 block contains the numbers 1 to 9. Target: 30 minutes

18 20

aunt (5) (3)

dog (3)

(5)

7 Language usable for a letter to an

Costers’ companions? (7)

10 11

Down

Across 3

14,

Ewer 15, B-Art. 16, Inn 17, A-but 19, UE-FA 21, Wild cards 23, Pile 24, Hung 26, So-n 27, Wee-K 29, Ari-d 32, Burr 33, F-reda 34, Reci-pe 35, Chas.-tens 36, At-test. Down:

1, A-bus-E 2, O-VI-ne 3, Aria 4,

Debar 5, Re-AD 6, Due-nnA 9, In turn 11, Awe 12,

Trail 13, Watcher 15, Bud 16, Ifs 18, Blew up 20, Edgar 21, W-I-N

22, A-UK

23, Potent

25, Rid

28, Erect

30, Refer 31, Da-is-y 32, Bit-e 33, Fi-sh.

8, Erupts

10, Irish

Quick Across:

4, Fedora

13, Deer

7, External Down: 15, Bets 5, Dour

14, Menu

6, Rotten

1, Denim 2, Stain 3, Arch 4, Fleet 9, Resign

11, Red

12, Susan

16, Net 17, Stir 19, Iron 21, Harbinger 23, Tone 13, Derides 15, Bib 16, Nor 18, Tremor 20, 24, Dune 26, Top 27, Meet 29, Knit 32, Tows 33, Reeks 21, Hop 22, Nut 23, Tomato 25, Bid Aside 34, Nature 35, Reporter 36, Mopeds.

28, Ewers

30, Nifty

31, Tears 32, Tune 33. Ahoy

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

Cellar Bards event is part of international arts fest The October Cellar Bards event in Cardigan will be a special night as part of the second Coracle Europe International Arts Festival, which is being held at a variety of venues across Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire and draws participants from west Wales, Ireland and Sweden. Guest readers on the evening – on Friday, October 25 -- will be Helen May Williams and Mick Evans, both with new and very different poetry collections published this year by Cinnamon Press. Doors and the bar open at 7.45pm, at the Cellar Bar, Quay Street, Cardigan SA43 1HU. Entry is £3, and open mic spots are available as always. We expect visitors from Sweden and Ireland will take part in the open mic sessions. Helen May Williams’ latest collection, Catstrawe, is the result of a year-long project in which she set herself a challenge to write at least one haiku a day. Each day she had to write 17 syllables before midnight. In the course of the year many themes and preoccupations emerged from the daily acts of attention the writing required. Notably: family and family histories, connections between generations of women, stimulation from travel, inspiration from one’s immediate home locale, terrorism,

the migrant crisis, and running through it all, the experience of living with cancer. Mick Evans has poetry published in a number of anthologies; he was a runner up in the Cinnamon Single Poem Competition, and a winner of the Welsh Poetry Competition. His collection, Burlesque, explores, through the figure of Punch, themes of identity and the roles imposed by circumstance and conditioning. The Coracle Europe event is an international arts festival taking place over five days from October 24-28. Other venues include The Queens, Carmarthen; Cwrw, Carmarthen; and Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli. Events include book launches, a poetry slam, music, arts exhibitions and spoken word performances. Open mic spots are always available at The Cellar Bards, Cardigan’s only regular spoken word event. The Bards welcome writers of poetry, short stories, micro-fiction and novels, we like a song or two as well (max five minutes each reader). People who want to read can put their names down at the door on the night. Or go along to listen to the fabulous poetry of Mick Evans, Helen May Williams, guests from Sweden and Ireland, plus our own talented local writers. See The Cellar Bards Facebook page for more information.

Dream State, Drugs, Debut

Dream State: ready to rock spoken to the BBC about IN 2014, a South her addiction to drugs, Wales hardcore band mentioning that she was formed with the would spend nights alone lofty aspirations of becoming the biggest act taking MDMA and whilst at university, she would from Wales since Bullet deal with the stress by For My Valentine. Fast forward 5 abusing marijuana and years and, after being alcohol. Since she was signed to an Australian a young child, CJ often wrote music and played record label, CJ Gilpin acoustic guitar and had a (lead singer), guitarists Aled Evans and Rhys massive passion for rock music. Wilcox and Jamie Lee Since 2014, Dream the drummer currently make up the band ‘Dream State have released State’ which you’re sure seven music videos, to be hearing more of including ‘White Lies’ in 2017, making it their over the next year. breakthrough hit with CJ, formally from Pembrokeshire, has more than ten million

views online. The band have also played Reading and Leeds Festival where they were found and signed to UNFD record label, releasing their second album ‘Recovery’ and winning the Best British Breakthrough in the Kerrang! Awards in 2018. The South Wales band has also taken part in an album alongside Neck Deep and Taking Back Sunday called ‘Songs That Saved My Life’, in aid of Mental Health. Dream State is

On tour: selling out already the rest of the UK and finishing off the year Europe, with a new with the rest of their tour landing them in album ‘Primrose Path’ Swansea (Nov 1), before set to be released October they move onto touring 18, 2019.

Do you want your event to feature in The Herald? Email andy@herald.email

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

CHURCH NEWS

Pause for Thought I ADMIRE Sir David Attenborough. Most of us tend to slow down a bit when we reach the official retiring age but not this broadcasting genius. He may be in his nineties but he continues to create the most stimulating and challenging of programmes as well as helping to set the climate change agenda. But I don’t agree with everything he says, especially when it comes to God and the contentious issues that surround the creation of the world. Sir David hit the headlines recently when along with some 45 other individuals and organisations he signed a letter asking the Welsh Government to explicitly ban the teaching of creationism as science. Organised by campaign group Humanists

UK (surprise surprise!) it also calls for primary school pupils to be taught about evolution. Now I have no problem with school children being introduced to the theory of evolution. To do anything else would be retrograde and would fail to introduce them to the current default position on the origin of life. But sadly, in true secular humanist tone, the letter is simplistic and just a little bit intolerant in describing creationism and intelligent design as pseudoscience. It also fails to acknowledge that there are distinguished scientists who accept evolutionary theory yet still find it possible to believe in God. Professor Stuart Burgess would go even further. He’s clearly no intellectual

pygmy having held academic posts at Bristol University, Cambridge University and Liberty University in the USA. He has also worked for the European Space Agency as lead designer for the solar array on the world’s largest civilian earth-observation spacecraft (Envisat) and led the design and testing of the chain drive for the British Olympic Cycling Team who won a record six gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics. And yet he can write “Christians can be confident in their faith in the Book of Genesis knowing that real science in the laboratory supports biblical creation. They can also be confident in teaching children that true science supports the Bible and that science makes sense when God is included” By Rob James

Emmanuel Christian Centre - Sunday: 11.00am (10.30am for prayer) Wednesday: Mothers & Toddlers 10.00am & 1.00pm Prayer Meeting 7.30pm Friday: Children’s Clubs 6.00pm and 7.30pm For more information: www.emmanuelchristiancentre. org.uk Tel 01437 767921 Hill Park Church – Sunday: 11am, 6pm. Tuesday: 2pm - Prayer and Praise. Wednesday: 7:30pm - Mid-week meeting. Any enquiries please email: secretary@hillpark.net. Prendergast, Haverfordwest. Calvary Church – Sunday: 10am, 6pm - Includes communion. Wednesday: 7:30pm Prayer Meeting. Trafalgar Road, H/west, Pembrokeshire, SA61 2TP Cleddau Community Church – Sunday: 10:30am Family Worship. Milford Marina The Church at Nantucket – Sunday: 10:30am. Marine House, Nantucket Ave, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, SA73 2BE. Please visit our website for more information www.churchatnantucket.co.uk. St Katharine & St Peters Church – Sunday: 8am - Low Mass, 10am - Parish Mass with Sunday school. Monday: 8am - Low Mass. Tuesday: 9am Morning Prayer. Wednesday: 10am - Low Mass St. Mary’s Church, Haverfordwest – Sunday: 11:15am - Holy Eucharist. 5th Sunday of the month: 10.30am -United Parish Mass (Venue by rotation). Friday: 11am – Holy Eucharist. Church of the Holy Spirit – Sunday: 11:15am- Informal Worship (Informal Communion every 2nd Sun), 6pm – Informal Praise (2nd, 4th & 5th Sun) & Informal Communion (1st, 3rd Sun). Top of Court Rise/St Lawrence Hill, Hakin, SA73 3PG St Mary’s Church – Sunday: 9.15am - Holy Communion (1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th Sunday of the month) & Morning Prayer (3rd Sunday of the month). Wellington Road, Hakin, SA73 3BU St David’s Church, Hubberston – Sunday: 8am - Holy Communion (1st Sunday of the month), 10.00am - Morning Prayer (1st and 3rd Sunday of the month) & Holy Communion (1st and 2nd Sunday of the month, last Sunday of each month Family Service). Hubberston, SA73 3PL & The Rectory, 35 Westaway Drive, Hakin, Milford Haven. Tel. 01646 696914 or email AndyBookless@hubberston.org.uk Broad Haven Baptist Church - Sunday service at 10.30am. Minister: Revd Helen Dare, The Barvels, 21 Marine Road, Broad Haven SA62 3JS

01437 781428 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter – Day Saints - Sunday: 10am – Worship Service. Congregation Leadership: Branch President Calvin Williams. Milford Rd (Junction of A4076/ A477) Johnston SA62 3HL Grace Church West Wales - Sunday: 10.30am. Queens hall, Narberth. Visit our website www.gracewales.orghttp:// www.gracewales.org/ St Davids Cathedral – Sunday: 8am - Holy Communion, 9.30am - Cymun Bendigaid (Capel Mair), 9.30am - Parish Eucharist (Nave), 11.15am - Choral Matins, 6pm - Choral Evensong. St Davids Cathedral, The Deanery Office, The Pebbles, St Davids, SA62 6RD. www. stdavidscathedral.org.ukhttp:// www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk/ St.Clement’s Neyland Sunday: 9.30am - Holy Communion, 10.45am - Happening@Neyland. St Clement’s Rd, Neyland, Milford Haven, SA73 1EB www.parish.churchinwales.org.ukhttp://www.parish. churchinwales.org.uk/ St. Peter & St. Cewydd Church, Steynton – First Sunday Only - 9 am Said Eucharist & 11 am Family Service. All other Sundays 11 am Holy Eucharist. steynton.btck.co.uk Zion Free Church – Sunday: 10:30am, 6pm. Meyrick Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6UT The Salvation Army – Sunday: 10:30am – Morning worship, 6pm - Café Style Worship. Upper Park Road, Tenby SA70 7LT Albany United Reformed and Methodist Church – Sunday: 11am – with Rev HughJohn Wilson (Tea & coffee after the service). Wednesday: 10.30am - service of Holy Communion. Hill Street, Haverfordwest, SA61 1QE St David’s Church – Sunday: 8.30am - Said Eucharist, 6pm – Evensong. 2nd Sunday: 11.15am – Sung Eucharist. 5th Sunday: 11am – Café Praise. Wednesday: 10:30am – Said Eucharist. Prendergast, Haverfordwest. Pembrokeshire Quakers – Sunday: 11am at Friends’ Meeting House, Priory Road, Milford Haven, and at Curtis House, 9 Bryn Road, St Davids, as well as Bloomfield Community Centre, Narberth. Every third Wednesday of the month: 7pm at Albany Vestry, opposite Haverfordwest Leisure Centre. Fishguard meetings at 6.30pm every second Tuesday of the month and 11am every last Sunday of the month. Phone 01348 891286 for more details. St Francis R C Church – Sunday: 11am, 6pm. Monday: 9.30am. Wednesday: 7pm.

Thursday: 9.30am. Friday: 9.30am. Saturday: 9.30am Tabernacle Congregational Church - 1st Sunday: 11am - Communion Service and children’s Sunday club. 2nd Sunday: 2.30pm - Welsh Language Service. 3rd Sunday: 4pm - Communion Service. Tabernacle Congregational Church, Barn Street, Haverfordwest. St Peters Church, Johnston - 1st Sunday: Morning Prayer. 2nd & 3rd Sunday: Eucharist. 4th Sunday: Family Service. 5th Sunday: Joint Service. Grace Church, Narberth Sunday: 10am - Coffee, 10.30am - Prayer. Narberth CP School, SA67 7FE. 01834 861777 www. gracewales.org Thornton Baptist Chapel, Milford Haven - Sundays: 11am with communion 1st Sunday of every month. Christ Church, Priory Road, Milford Haven - Rev. Lorette Hinson. Service 11am every Sunday morning. Midweek Communion monthly on a Thursday, Messy Church monthly on a Tuesday, dates on noticeboard outside the Church. A WARM welcome awaits those who wish to attend the Sunday service at St Mary’s Church in Fishguard. The services commence at 10am, and at other times during the day. Services vary from traditional to informal and are mostly in English. For detailed information, please call 01239 821023 Rehoboth Presbyterian Chuch (Lower Hill Street, Hakin): First and third Sundays of the month: 11am Second Sunday: Zion, Neyland and 2.30pm Fourth Sunday: Rehoboth at 2.30pm Both afternoon services include Holy Communion Bethlehem Baptist Chapel on B4329 (SA62 5QL) - just 5 minutes from Haverfordwest invite everyone to our fun Family Service suitable for all ages as we worship Jesus together: Sunday, July 28, 10.45am. All welcome! For more information please see our website (www. bethlehemchapel.co.uk) or our Facebook page or ring 01437 731448. St Asaph Anglican Catholic Church A Continuing Anglican Church with traditional orthodox faith. Mass held in the Chapel of St Giles, in the grounds of Upton Castle near Cosheston every Sunday at 11am. You’ll find a warm welcome. For further information, please contact Rev’d Dr Miles E Maylor, on: revmem123@ gmail.com

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

DEATH NOTICES

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Mr. Michael Denis Edward Critcher Milford Haven The death occurred suddenly but peacefully at his home on Monday, October 7, of Mr. Michael Denis Edward Critcher, aged 83 years of Hanover Court, Robert Street, Milford Haven. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. The funeral service will take place on Friday, October 18 at 10.45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven. Tel: 01646 693180.

years of Waterloo Road, Hakin, Milford Haven. Affectionately known as Nonie, she is loved dearly and will be sadly missed by her family and friends. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday October 30 at 10.00am at St. David’s Church, Hubberston followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only, donations, if desired, may be sent to Portfield School, Portfield, Haverfordwest SA61 1BS. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven. Tel: 01646 693180.

Miss Noreen Margaret Nickerson Milford Haven

Mr. Thomas Charles Richards Milford Haven

The death occurred suddenly but peacefully at her home on Tuesday, October 8, of Miss Noreen Margaret Nickerson, aged 79

The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Thursday, October 10 of Mr. Thomas Charles

Richards, aged 85 years of John Lewis Street, Hakin, Milford Haven. Affectionately known as Tommy, he is greatly loved and will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by his family and friends. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 23 rd October at 1.45pm at St. Katharine & St. Peter’s Church, Milford Haven followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3.15pm. Family flowers only, donations if desired The British Heart Foundation may be sent to Mr. M. Richards, 1 Brooklands Close, Simpson Cross, Haverfordwest, SA62 6DZ. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd, Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven. Tel: 01646 693180. Mr Edward Harvey Eldred Peacefully on Sunday 13th October 2019, Harvey of

Llandyfaelog. Beloved husband of the late Joan, loving father, grandfather and great grandfather. Harvey will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. Funeral Monday 21st October, friends please meet for service at St. Maelog’s Church, Llandyfaelog 10.30 a.m. followed by interment at the churchyard. Family flowers only please but donations if desired in Harvey’s memory to Dementia UK (cheques only please) will be gratefully accepted by Arthur Cambrey Funeral Directors, Alban Road, SA15 1ES, Tel: 01554 772829. Mr Arwyn George Peacefully at Glangwili Hospital on Saturday 12th October, Arwyn, Bryn, Manordeilo. Devoted husband of Eileen, dear father of Wendy and Dorian and a special ‘Dat’ to his

grandchildren and great granddaughters. Public funeral service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Tuesday 22nd October at 12:15pm. No flowers. Donations if so desired towards ‘Oncology Department, Glangwili’ or ‘Velindre Cancer Unit’ will be kindly received by D. Lloyd & Sons, Glanrwyth, Pumsaint, SA19 8YU, 01558 650209. Mrs Edna Lewis Peacefully on Thursday October 10 at Glangwili Hospital, Edna of Sunnyside, Capel Seion Road, Pontyberem. Beloved wife of the late Danny, devoted mother of Huw and David, much loved grandmother of Hywel, Catherine, Marc, Simon, Louise and Owain, great grandmother of Dylan, Deian, Isobel, Noah, Cadi, Finn, Phoebe and Oliver and a respected motherin-law of Frances and Gill. Resting at

the private chapel of Wyn Bishop, until the funeral on Monday October 21, family service at the Chapel of Rest at 3.15p.m., public service at Llanelli Crematorium at 4.00p.m. Family wreath only, donations in lieu if so desired to R.S.P.B., or Arthritis Research U.K., c/o Wyn Bishop, Waunddewi, 43 Cross Hands Road, Gorslas, Llanelli, SA14 6RR. Mrs Alisha Mary Dorothy Dann Suddenly on Wednesday 9th October 2019 at her home, Alisha of Tir Einon, Llwynhendy, Llanelli. Alisha will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. Funeral Friday 25th October, friends please meet for service at Llanelli Crematorium 9.00 a.m. Further enquiries to Arthur Cambrey Funeral Directors, Alban Road, Llanelli, SA15 1ES, Tel: 01554 772829.

Mr Robert John Jones Suddenly on Saturday 28th September, Robert of Rhosfach (formerly of Cresselly). Treasured son of Sharon Harris and Brian Jones, cherished grandson and nephew. Funeral service on Wednesday 23rd October at St Dogmael’s Church, Mynachlogddu at 11.00am followed by a private interment. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘WTSW’ (Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales) c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250. Mrs Iris Dyer 16th October. Birthday memories of a dear mother and grandmother. Beautiful memories, treasured forever. God Bless Gloria, Tracey, Leanne and Natalie.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

Pembrokeshire Food Directory

Roast dinners, lled rolls and family favourites to take away daily. Mix and match menu for the fussy eater, Home-cooked dailyCakes and puds, Local Welsh produce

OUR OPENING TIMES

Tue - Sat 11am-7pm Mon closed Sunday 12 noon - 5pm Tel: 01646 278250 • 42 Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock

halfway Café

07787 833569 Pope Hill, Johnston

1,2,3 Agamemnon House, Nelson Quay, Milford Marina, Milford Haven Call 01646 692082

Full Menu Including Lunches, Snacks, Hot Meals, Homemade Specials, Choice of Teas, Coffees & Cold Drinks

Sunday lunch and full menu available 12 - 3pm

Families welcome Recently refurbished dinning area The Friars catering for everyones needs. 5 Castle Square, Town Centre, Haverfordwest SA61 2AB

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

Pembrokeshire Food Directory

CAFÉ  RESTAURANT  PIZZERIA Open daily from 10am for Breakfast/Brunch, Coffee and Homemade cakes, Lunch, Evening meal and pizzas from 4pm

The Seafront, Broad Haven, SA62 3JN Telephone: 01437 781 175 e-mail: info@sunshineitalian.co.uk

Afternoon teas • Buffets • Sandwich and Baguettes • Pies and Pasties • Hot and Cold Drinks Plus much more...

Milford Haven - 01646 697 713

NEW POOL TABLE

WINTER OPENING HOURS OPEN FROM

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OPEN FROM 4PM FOR FOOD TUESDAY - FRIDAY OPEN FROM 11AM SATURDAY & SUNDAY

11AM FOOD FROM 12 LUXURY EN SUITE ACCOMMODATION

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

SITS VAC / PUBLIC NOTICES

Situations Vacant | Public Notices

Sales Reps Wanted Weekly Paid Commissions All areas of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire

Stay Low are currently recruiting for experienced sales representatives to sell our services to small and medium sized businesses across West Wales. You will be working as part of a team and reporting to the Regional Sales Manager on a daily basis. You will be required to generate your own leads by way of telephone calls, face to face and referrals, however you will also be given appointments to attend daily in your area that have been pre qualified by our contact centre. Full training is provided. To succeed at this role you must be well presented, well organised and a real people person. All appointments are to be updated on to our portal, therefore basic IT skills are a necessity. Requirements • Car • Mobile phone • Internet access on a tablet/laptop A proven track record in sales is a must with experience in a similar role desirable. A realistic OTE for this position is £1000 a week. We look forward to hearing from you! Job Type: Commission Salary: £30,000.00 /year

Christmas Support Team Next PLC Haverfordwest Apply On Company Site

Dominos Delivery Driver Dominos Pizza Tenby Apply With Indeed

About the Role You will: Be working on the sales floor, in the stockroom, or both Offer fast and friendly service to all of our customers Help get stock to the sales floor as quickly as you can Keep the sales floors looking fantastic and easy to shop from About You A great communicator who’s always looking for ways you can help Friendly, calm and efficient – even on your busiest days Excited about the challenge of a varied and fast-paced job Flexible, supportive and always ready to go the extra mile

Looking for immediate start! Pay Hourly rate of pay will be in line with the national minimum wage in addition to an allowance paid per delivery made and tips on top. Benefits Hours of work will be flexible. FREE PIZZA* 5.6 Weeks Holidays Pension Scheme Free Uniform Rewards & Incentives Career Progression Opportunities Job Summary Delivery Driver Are you Driven to Deliver? Working for Domino’s Pizza as a Delivery Driver is a fun and flexible role enabling you to work

adminwales@staylow.co.uk mobile :- 07930 344965

For more information email jobs@herald.email

or call 01646 454545

within a fast paced team environment. Here at Domino’s Pizza we have a passion for winning, service, quality and relationships, these are the underpinning values to the success of Domino’s Pizza. Domino’s Pizza Delivery Drivers are at the forefront of our business ensuring customers get excellent customer service and receive their pizza fresh, hot and on time. Excellent Career opportunities within the business. Responsibilities As a Delivery Driver you will be responsible for delivering excellent Customer Service at all times ensuring all deliveries are made on time, hot and fresh. You will be trained in all aspects of the role ensuring all products are delivered safely and securely, avoiding unnecessary risks by adhering to all Safety and

Security Policies. Being a Delivery Driver means you are an integral part of the Domino’s Team, therefore you will be responsible for upholding a positive brand image and working together to create a successful team. You will receive Food Hygiene and Safety training to ensure you maintain the highest standards of food hygiene and store cleanliness. Skills and Qualities To work for Domino’s Pizza you need to have a passion for Customer service, a positive attitude and good communication skills. We are looking for talented people who excel in the following areas: Customer Service Communication Hard Working Hands on approach Requirements Full UK Drivers License or DVLA approved international

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

SITS VAC / PUBLIC NOTICES

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Situations Vacant | Public Notices license Have your own car Produce up to date car related documentsMOT, Insurance etc. Good Knowledge of the local area Must be available to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays Job Type: Part-time Salary: £8.21 /hour Location: Tenby, Pembrokeshire (Preferred) Licence: Driving License (Required) Technical Writer Genpower Ltd Pembroke Dock Apply With Indeed Role: Technical Writer Location: Pembroke Dock Salary: £21,000 Working hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm Based in scenic Pembrokeshire, Genpower Ltd is the exclusive distributor for Hyundai Power Equipment for the UK and Ireland. We are looking for a creative, motivated and detail-oriented individual to take ownership of our technical documentation from start to finish.

Main duties: Producing user manuals, which will include content writing, photographs, design, structure and layout. Producing instruction materials and support documents. Creating technical blog content. Writing technical product descriptions. Compiling and creating product specifications. Managing the product certification process. Establishing a system for tracking changes in certain technical documents. Owning and managing the Declaration of Conformity process for all our products. Registering the products using the Europa website. Generating a UK DoC certificate for these products. Adding DoC certificates to appropriate manuals. Maintaining and managing a product specification database containing information such as weights, dimensions and features for each product. Inspecting all new machines that arrive to ensure that spec is 100% correct. If there are any changes then applying these to all channels.

Valpak registrations and submissions. Continuously reviewing product marketing content to enhance and update according to latest standards. Liaising with the factories to obtain exploded view diagrams, parts listings and certificates. Making last minute changes based on business needs and direction.

Training can be provided to support some aspects of this job role e.g. liaising with factories, the DoC process and Valpak registrations. The ideal candidates will possess: Previous experience in a similar role e.g. experience of dealing with technical documentation, copywriting or product management. Excellent rational thinking and problem-

solving skills. A broad understanding of document formatting. Strong understanding of Microsoft Office programmes. Experience of Photoshop and Magento an advantage. Creative flair. Document formatting. Commercial awareness. An ability to follow style guides. Used to a fast-paced,

deadline-driven work environment. Works autonomously. A good focus and time management skills. Works with accuracy and attention to detail. What is in it for you? Competitive salary. Perkbox Private health care plan. Dentist and optician cash back scheme. Increasing holiday

allowance with service. Pension scheme. To apply please send CV and Cover Letter outlining your suitability. Job Type: Full-time Salary: £21,000.00 /year Experience: Technical Writing / Copywriting: 1 year (Required)

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

Llanstinan Boarding Kennels - Dog Kennels and Luxury Cat Hotel in Pembrokeshire Located in the heart of the Pembrokeshire countryside, Llanstinan Kennels provides the perfect environment for your "best friend" to enjoy a home from home in our dog kennels and luxury cat hotel.

Barnlake House, Burton, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, SA73 1PA Telephone: 01646 600420

Boarding Kennel and Cattery Dog Training and Behaviour What do you want for your dog or cat when you choose a Boarding Kennels? You want to know that he will be safe. That he will be as happy as he can be away from home, and that his health will be supervised. And that the people who look after him have experience, a love of animals and a responsible attitude. That is why much thought and planning has gone into providing trouble-free accommodation for your dogs and cats at Barnlake. At any time during opening hours you are welcome to visit, meet the staff and see the kennels, while you discuss your pet's needs. No appointment necessary. Open Monday – Saturday 10 am –6.00pm Sundays and B Hols 10.00 am – 1.00pm 5.00 pm7.00 pm

Successful dog training depends on both the dog and the handler – but the role of the Handler is vital! That is why here at Barnlake we aim to help you to train your dog. But why bother with dog training anyway? What will you and your dog get out of this effort? A well-trained dog is a happy dog. He can be taken anywhere, he’s relaxed and confident, and is allowed more freedom and privileges than his wild and undisciplined cousin. Sometimes problems develop in your dog's life. Professional advice can help to avoid a lot of heartache later, particularly if taken early! Group courses, Puppy Playschool or Problem modification – whatever is needed, we are here to help.

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

COMMENT

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Trick or treats?

Halloween Spider Pizzas WHIP up these fun pizzas for a Halloween party. There are plenty of ways to make the spiders on top – I’ve used olives and salami but peppers work well too • • • • • • • • • 1.

1 pack pizza base mix Plain flour, for dusting 120ml passata or tomato pasta sauce 1 garlic clove, crushed 150g grated mozzarella 25g-50g parmesan, grated 4 large pitted black olives 6 small slices salami or chorizo 8 small capers, drained Make the pizza dough following pack instructions. Tip the dough onto a floured surface, flour your hands, then gently knead the dough for about 2 mins until fairly even, soft and bouncy. Return the dough to the bowl, cover with oiled cling film, then let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hr). While the dough proves, mix the passata and garlic in a bowl. Heat oven to 240C/220C fan/gas 9 or as hot as it will go. Dust two baking sheets with flour. Split the dough into eight, then roll four balls into thin, rough circles. Lift onto the floured sheets.

Smear a thin layer of the tomato sauce on top of each and scatter over the mozzarella and parmesan. Halve each olive and put four halves, cut-side down on four pizzas – these are the spider bodies. Cut the rest of the olive halves into thin strips, then arrange on either side of the bodies to look like legs. Put four pieces of salami or chorizo on the four remaining pizza bases. Cut the other pieces of salami into thin strips and use them to make the legs of the spiders. Add 2 capers to each spider for the eyes. Bake each tray for 12 mins or until golden and crisp and the cheese is starting to brown.

2. 3.

Spooky Witches Fingers • • • • • • • • • • • • 1.

225g (8 oz) butter, softened 125g (4 1/2 oz) icing sugar 1 egg 1 teas poon almond extract 1t easpoon vanilla extract 350g (12 oz) plain flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 100g (4 oz) whole almonds 1 tube red decorating icing Combine the butter, sugar, egg, almond

extract and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat together with an electric mixer; gradually add the flour, baking powder and salt, continually beating; chill for 20 to 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 160 C / Gas mark 3. Lightly grease baking trays. Remove dough from fridge in small amounts. Scoop 1 heaping teaspoon at a time onto a piece of greaseproof paper. Use the paper to roll the dough into a thin finger-shaped biscuit. Press one almond into one end of each biscuit to give the appearance of a long fingernail. Squeeze biscuit near the tip and again near the centre of each to give the impression of knuckles. You can also cut into the dough with a sharp knife at the same points to help give a more finger-like appearance. Arrange the shaped biscuits on the baking trays. Bake in the preheated oven until the biscuits are slightly golden in colour, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove the almond from the end of each biscuit; squeeze a small amount of red icing into the cavity; replace the almond to cause the icing to ooze out around the tip of the biscuit (makes 30)

The use of VHF

VHF Radio: An important tool

I WRITE on this subject as from time to time coastal folk need reminding of its proper use. For commercial shipping that I visit, a quick trip to the bridge to check if the ships VHF is powered down to a minimum output has become second nature to me. Whether it’s my fear of missing something out, this seafaring life has made me into a ‘constantly checking things are OK’ individual. Getting into a car, before setting off is a routine that all motorists should adopt. Does having a radio on loud interfere with your concentration? I doubt very many of us can drive safely with distraction like that. Applying this to the use of marine radio, a listening watch should be kept whilst under way on your craft. It is part of keeping a safe navigation watch which includes

keeping a lookout by sight as well as by hearing. I’m told that in cold waters, one can hearing the sound of cracking and falling ice of ice bergs. This is part of keeping a lookout by reporting sounds. Even more basic, what about fog signals and navigation mark bells?! So we have established its’ good common sense (Seamanship to us readers) that keeping a VHF watch aboard is all sound practice for keeping a safe navigational watch. So what is involved? Good practice dictates that a suitable radio channel should be monitored for the area you are navigating in and maintaining a VHFCh.16 safety and distress watch is essential. Remember that VHF CH16 is for this purpose. If you have to use it to call another station, make sure the channel is free of traffic and keep your call to an absolute minimum,

changing to an alternative working channel as soon as you can. This is acceptable practice, but there are users that use the VHF to have mundane conversations on and I’ve heard them on Ch.16!! Suppose it’s you that is in trouble afloat, would you want idle chat interfering with your communication? The setting of a VHF distress alert is another disturbing reality. Marine band VHF can pick up communications from a large part of the coast. I have even heard some coastal stations transmitting from as far away as the South Coast of England. Some hand held VHF radios can pick up signals from afar. A log should preferably be kept of all radio communication, which should be part of the crafts radio outfit. Any safety, urgency, distress alerts should be logged and records kept.

To end this article, I was master on a small container vessel on passage from Piraeus to Valletta in the Mediterranean. It was August time and the weather suitably warm with a calm sea. Off Cape Matapan in Southern Greece, I was on the 8-12 evening watch when I heard Valletta Port Control call another vessel on VHF. This was some 250 miles away. I raised contact with Valletta Port control on VHF Ch.!6 and thus switched to their working channel to pass on my ETA. I was so far away that Valletta Port informed me to call again before I arrived of the port. This was a good example of ‘ducting’ where a signal is carried some distance and where weather conditions were suitable for such transmissions. Strange thing is VHF! Keep those lifejackets on and good sailing!

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

ACTIVITY CENTRE

BED AND BREAKFAST BELHAVEN HOUSE HOTEL 28-29 Hamilton Terrace (on A4076) MILFORD HAVEN, UK West Wales SA73 3JJ

RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL VISITS ADVENTURE DAYS FOR 8 - 16 YEAR OLDS STAG AND HEN PARTIES CORPORATE TEAMBUILDING FAMILY FUN DAYS T: 01348 840763 E: enquiries@sealyham.com W: www.sealyham.com SURFING • CANOEING • HIGH ROPES • BUSHCRAFT COASTEERING • CLIMBING • KAYAKING • ARCHERY

Tel: 01646 695983 Mob: 07436582854 N.51’42’03 W.05’01’59

BUILDING / CONSTUCTION

CLEANING Helping Hands Cleaning Services PEACE OF MIND, DBS CHECKED, RELIABLE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CALL AMANDA 07866 003388

Booking for activities is essential

ACCOUNTS

CARPETRY 07800 558466 01437 890888

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JOINERY MANUFACTURER DOORS • WINDOWS • STAIRS • CONSERVATORIES • BARS • COUNTERS • SASH WINDOWS

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BEDS

CARAVANS / MOTORHOMES

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

ELECTRICAL

CATERING

GARDENING

PHIL OWENS PLASTERING & ELECTRICAL SERVICES

pembrokeshireseasalt.co.uk

LOCAL, RELIABLE, COMPETITIVE

• Rewires • Fault Finding • New Installations • PAT Testing • Inspection & Testing • All aspects of plastering covered 34+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

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for purchase on our website

30 Port Lion, Llangwm, Haverfordwest, SA62 4JT

Following the closure of Hallam’s Catering Supplies – and following discussions with the company – Crystal Catering are proud to be Barry Hallam’s preferred supplier for his valued customers. As a gesture to Barry and you, his customers, we will honour or where possible better his prices. To discuss your requirements and to place your orders please do not hesitate in contacting us using the details below. We would like to wish Barry all the best for his future.

01970 624114 or Richard on 07986 705504 We Look Forward to seeing you soon!! www.crystalcateringequipment.co.uk

CARPETS

FINANCE

INSURANCE THAT’S ON YOUR DOORSTEP Call our office in Narberth on

01834 861944

ELECTRICAL

West Wales Laser Cutting and engraving services

Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

3 Crowns House, Waterston, Milford Haven SA73 1DU

ALL TYPES OF FENCING UNDERTAKEN Specialist in: • GARDEN FENCING • GATES •PERGOLAS • ARBOURS FREE QUOTATION/CONSULTATIONS Mobile: 07766 150603 Telephone: 01646 690912 www.chrisjohnfencing.co.uk Email: chrisjohnfencing@btinternet.com

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

Secure Fencing South West

Metal Railings, Gates, Light Fabrication

PAINTING & DECORATING

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MOTORS

Pembrokeshire Classic Car Hire and Wedding Car Hire

THE HERALD FRIDAY OCTOBER 18 2019

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Scarlets hit heights to go top

Guinness Pro 14

Scarlets Zebre

54 10

SCARLETS soared to the top of the Guinness PRO14 Conference standings after an emphatic 54-10 eighttry victory over Zebre at Parc y Scarlets. The home side dominated the contest from first to last to make it three wins from the opening three rounds of the competition. Playing with a real adventure and ambition, the Scarlets had the bonus point secured before the half-hour mark. Man of the match Kieran Hardy grabbed two of them, while Josh Macleod and Ryan Conbeer also crossed. In the second period, hooker Taylor Davies, full-back Johnny McNicholl (twice) and

replacement Josh Helps added to Zebre’s misery to continue the impressive start for Brad Mooar and his coaching team. Scarlets shot out of the blocks and were over for the game’s first try with just 90 seconds on the clock. International wing Steff Evans made the incision in midfield and he found Hardy on a familiar support line on his inside with the scrum-half having far too much pace for the covering defence. Dan Jones converted and the Scarlets were off to a flyer. A chip and chase from Evans almost brought another, but it wasn’t long before the home side were celebrating their second after openside Josh Macleod touched down from a slick catch-anddrive move. Zebre hit back with a penalty through fly-half

Michaelangelo Biondelli, but the Scarlets’ response was swift. Uzair Cassiem punched the hole, Steff Hughes put a delicate kick through and Ryan Conbeer was first to the ball for the score. With the penalties

racking up against the Scarlets, Zebre claimed their first try from hooker Marco Manfredi, converted by Biondelli, but on 29 minutes the home side had their bonus point in the bag. Conbeer made the break after collecting a

cross-kick, Paul Asquith took play on and his inside pass found that man Hardy for his second. Leading 26-10 at halftime, Scarlets enjoyed another rapid start to the second period as the outstanding Taylor Davies finished off a line-out

drive to celebrate his first PRO14 start. A deft chip from Hughes set up McNicholl for try number six with replacement Angus O’Brien adding the extras. Lewis Rawlins was shown yellow midway through the half, but

Scarlets’ 14 men continued to press. Dan Davis spilled the ball over the line after a charge down by fellow sub Jonathan Evans, but moments later replacement lock Josh Helps was on hand to dive over for his first try for the Scarlets. O’Brien converted again. There was still time for a spectacular finish McNicholl plucking the ball out of the skies to cross for his second to complete a comprehensive win.

Scarlets tries: K. Hardy (2), J. Macleod, R. Conbeer, T. Davies, J. McNIcholl (2), J. Helps. Cons: D. Jones (4), A. O’Brien (3) Zebre try M. Manfredi. Con: M. Biondellii. Pen: Biondelli

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Welsh and Scottish teams renew rivalries

SOME famous names of Welsh and Scottish rugby will renew old friendships and rivalries in cross-border matches between Indigo Group Premiership sides and Scottish Super6 teams at the end of the season. The top six sides from last season’s Premiership will play all six new Scottish Super6 teams on a home or away basis. Watsonians, Heriot’s, Stirling County and Boroughmuir will be well-known names to Welsh supporters and are included in Scottish Rugby’s new semiprofessional competition, while Melrose and Ayr have rebranded and will play as Southern Knights and Ayrshire Bulls respectively. Following the conclusion of the Indigo Group Premiership and inaugural Fosroc Super6

in Scotland, the new crossborder competition will take place on consecutive weekends from April through to May, with each team hosting three games on home turf and all sides playing each other once. Ebbw Vale, Pontypridd and Aberavon begin at home to Southern Knights, Ayrshire Bulls and Stirling County respectively on the weekend of April 25, while Cardiff, Llandovery and Merthyr travel to Watsonians, Heriots and Boroughmuir Bears. Jonathan Jones, chair of Ebbw Vale and the Premiership clubs said, “We’re excited about this opportunity of crossborder competition against these Scottish teams. It is a welcome new addition to our season for everyone involved. As a club, we have an old friendship with Watsonians which we are looking forward to

renewing – the supporters are already looking at which match – or matches – they can organise trips too!” Jason Hyatt, Aberavon head coach said, “We worked hard at the end of last season to finish in the top six and secure our spot for this competition. t’s always good to expose our players and everyone involved in different opposition. We enjoyed the British & Irish Cup and we are delighted to be part of the Super6 for the same reasons. We have a competitive squad and while we will be aiming for success on all fronts this season, these matches will bring a welcome freshness at the end of the season.” Justin Burnell, Pontypridd head coach added, “This is an exciting, extra dimension to the season for players,

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supporters and coaches too. It’s a great reward for the top six clubs from last season’s Premiership and hopefully, the competition will stay and expand in the future.” On the announcement, Fosroc Super6 Tournament Director Stephen Gemmell said, “We’re delighted to be able to announce these fixtures alongside the WRU. The tournament will provide our six teams with quality opposition against their experienced Welsh counterparts and will make for some intense, physical and, I am sure, entertaining rugby. Our clubs have enjoyed similar cross border matches in the old B&I Cup and these new fixtures are a great addition to our Super6 calendar and will provide a significant challenge for the players and coaches of all of our teams.”

Llandovery: Taking on teams from Scotland in 2020 [Photo credit: Darren Harries]

Cross-border fixtures 2020 Week 1 - April 25 Watsonians Rugby v Cardiff Heriots Rugby v Llandovery Boroughmuir Bears v Merthyr Ebbw Vale v Southern Knights Pontypridd v Ayrshire Bulls Aberavon v Stirling County

Week 4 - May 16 Southern Knights v Aberavon Boroughmuir Bears v Pontypridd Stirling County v Llandovery Cardiff v Ayrshire Bulls Merthyr v Watsonians Rugby Ebbw Vale v Heriots Rugby

Week 2 - May 2 Watsonians Rugby v Ebbw Vale Heriots Rugby v Aberavon Ayrshire Bulls v Llandovery Cardiff v Boroughmuir Bears Pontypridd v Stirling County Merthyr v Southern Knights

Week 5 - May 23 Southern Knights v Cardiff Ayrshire Bulls v Merthyr Stirling County v Ebbw Vale Aberavon v Watsonians Rugby Pontypridd v Heriots Rugby Llandovery v Boroughmuir Bears

Week 3 - May 9 Watsonians Rugby v Pontypridd Heriots Rugby v Cardiff Stirling County v Merthyr Ebbw Vale v Ayrshire Bulls Llandovery v Southern Knights Aberavon v Boroughmuir Bears

Week 6 - May 30 Southern Knights v Pontypridd Boroughmuir Bears v Ebbw Vale Ayrshire Bulls v Aberavon Llandovery v Watsonians Rugby Merthyr v Heriots Rugby Cardiff v Stirling County

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Pembrokeshire Powerlifters break British records

Tesco funding helps Pembrokeshire gymnasts

Breaking records: Pembrokeshire Powerlifting Club broke 5 British records throughout the two day event

PEMBROKESHIRE PowerliftingClub brought home 5 more British records last weekend at 2020 British and Amateur British Powerlifting Union Welsh Qualifiers held at the Pembrokeshire Powerlifting Club in Cresselly, Carew. 70 lifters were competing over the two days for a spot in the 2020 British and European Championships next year The Club ran another great qualifier with lifters travelling hundreds of miles to compete at the PPC as its reputation for hosting great competitions grows in the powerlifting community. The lifters for the club itself all qualified and will be looking ahead to the British Championships to be held at the BodyPower Expo in the NEC, Birmingham in June next year which has promised to be an even bigger event than last year. On the first day of the two day event, the PPC’s Junior Lifter Sam McLean in the u82.5kg classic raw (wrapped knee) category lifted a 272.5kg squat for a British Record at his age/weight, 155kg bench press and a 285kg deadlift for 712.5kg total. In the female open u75kg classic raw category, Maz Thomas hit a 120kg squat, 50kg bench press and 127.5kg deadlift for a qualifying total of 297.5kg and in the female u90kg open classic raw Shell Read, having dropped a weight class got a 130kg squat, 62.5kg bench press and 137.5kg

Heavy lifting: Powerlifters on action amidst heavy competition deadlift to qualify with 330kg total. On the second day in the open u100kg raw (naked knee) category Tommy Ray D’Ortez got a 235kg squat, 150kg bench press and 275kg deadlift and also won best raw lifter with his total of 660kg. Andrew Murphy in the u100kg single-ply equipped category with a 300kg squat, 180kg bench press and 277.5kg deadlift for a total of 757.5kg. And finally, Steven Arnold in the u82.5kg classic raw masters 1 category

having dropped a weight class from last year took 4 British records for the club with a 165kg squat, 125kg bench press and a 197.5kg deadlift for a total of 487.5kg. The venue was busy throughout with refreshments served and had a great atmosphere with the Pembrokeshire Powerlifters and the BPU/ ABPU hosting the event, more to come from the team next year at the 2020 British Championships, the team have their eye on more records yet.

Would you like your club or sport featured in The Herald? Contact our Sports Editor: James Hemingray • james.h@herald.email

GYMNASTS from Pembrokeshire’s Special Needs Gymnastics Club are jumping for joy after winning 47 medals at a national championships, thanks to the support of a £4,000 donation from Tesco. As the only volunteerrun gymnastics club of its kind in Wales, the charity caters for people with special needs and disabilities across the area. The donation, from Tesco’s Bags of Help initiative, funded a trip for more than two-dozen gymnasts to compete in the annual Disability Gymnastics Competition in Poole. The club’s secretary, Rachel Mathias, is hoping that young gymnasts could be asked to compete

at international level after impressing at the competition. “I’m extremely grateful to Tesco for the donation and to locals for choosing our charity to receive the support,” she said. “It allowed us to pay for travel and accommodation for our 28 gymnasts, their families and coaches to attend the national Disability Championships in Poole. “Scooping a grand total of 47 medals wasn’t only a huge confidence boost for all of our gymnasts, but for the club and our volunteers too. With scouts in attendance at Poole, we’re hopeful some of our gymnasts will be picked to represent Wales at the Special Olympics GB

Summer Games Liverpool in 2021, which would be incredible!” Tesco’s Bags of Help scheme has been running for the last four years in collaboration with the charity Groundwork. The initiative, which sees funding awarded to thousands of local community projects every year, has donated more than £5m to groups across Wales since it launched in 2016. David Page, Tesco’s Head of Community, said: “We’re really proud of the impact our Bags of Help scheme has had on communities, groups and charities across Wales. The funding for Pembrokeshire’s Special Needs Gymnastics Club

was chosen by customers in our Pembrokeshire stores, so it’s great to see the charity recognised for its hard work in the area.” Customers cast their Bags of Help votes for local good causes by using blue tokens handed out at checkout points in their local store. Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s National Chief Executive, said: “Bags of Help continues to enable local communities up and down Britain to improve their local spaces and the places that matter to them. We’re pleased to be able to be a part of the journey and provide support and encouragement to groups enjoying, protecting and improving Britain’s coastlines.”

Match abandoned after ref injured Burry Port 5 - Fishguard & Goodwick 0

WHAT should have been a close match between secondplaced Burry Port and Fishguard ended in unusual circumstances on Saturday, October 11. Burry Port had taken an early lead and looked to have the best of the game in the early stages. However, after only 22 minutes’ play, referee Dr Simon Davies, pulled up with a leg injury which meant he could not continue to officiate.

The only replacement official was local to Burry Port. The Seagulls’ coaches Nathan and Steve Jenkins discussed the issue. In conjunction with skipper Chris Shousha, they decided the game could not go on in the absence of an appointed referee from outside the area. As play could not continue, the match was abandoned. The match will be replayed on a date decided by the league.

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Hundleton hammer home advantage

Hundleton Morriston

5 2

MORRISTON started strongly but Hundleton stayed solid and withheld the early pressure. Billy Davis put Hundleton in the lead with a stunning strike from outside the box. Scores were levelled when Hundleton keeper fumbled into his own net. Scores stayed level at half time. From the start of the second half, Hundleton looked in control and started playing some lovely football. Their endeavour was rewarded with a neat finish from Mikey Davis to make it 2-1. Davis quickly turned

provider, giving the assist for Connor Hay to lash one home. As the game opened up, Hundleton kept control with some lovely football and strong play at the back. Hundleton’s Connor Hay was brought down when through on goal and the referee issued a straight red to the offending defender. Tom Dyson curled the resulting freekick into the top corner to make it 4-1. Hundleton added the 5th through a deflected shot from Alex Lewis. Morriston grabbed a late consolation goal minutes from the end when the referee awarded a penalty. The resulting spot-kick hit the back of the net to make the final score 5-2.

Dafen delight

That’s in!: Dafen strike on way to 4-2 win DAFEN booked their shot into the back of the net place in the second round from the edge of the box. of the West Wales Cup on Evans was at it again Saturday (Oct 12) as they moments later as he was beat Pennar Robins 4-2. played through before Dafen could have shooting over the Pennar taken an early lead when keeper to make it 2-0. they were awarded a Pennar were not out of penalty five minutes in. the game and they pulled a However, Pennar’s keeper goal back when they stole made an excellent save to the ball in the box and keep the scores level. turned and curled the ball The Carmarthenshire into the top right corner of league side then hit the bar the net. before taking the lead. Just moments later Lenny Evans turned though Dafen restored the defender and fired a their two-goal lead when

Jordan Williams was played in and he fired into the bottom right corner. Pennar missed a good chance to get another goal back, but it was 3-1 before half time. After the break, Dafen’s Rhys Winnett turned neatly inside the box and fired into the far corner to all but put the game to bed. Pennar did pull another goal back in the second half but there was no comeback as Dafen saw the game out.

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Milford Haven show grit in defeat Cardiff University 9 v Milford Haven Ladies 4

FOR their first away game of the season Milford Haven started the long journey to Cardiff to play one of the strongest teams in the division Cardiff University The game started off for what appeared to be an even game with both teams playing end to end and with 10mins gone both teams had managed to score two consecutive goals with Milford’s Kacey Arran and Charlotte Davies for the travelling team making the score 2-2. For the next 10 minutes Milford were able to hold the draw and play some good drilled hockey. However, Cardiff Uni were able to up their game and scored

three further goals in quick succession to take a 5-2 lead at the half. The second half began much as the first ended. Cardiff Uni piled on the pressure and scored another 3 goals in quick succession to take an 8-2 lead. Undeterred, Milford kept playing hockey and put together some good passages of play, moving the ball well from defence to attack to threaten the Cardiff goal. Kacey Arran, Milford’s player of the match, showed some fantastic stick work to release Rachel Coe to score two goals to peg the score back to 8-4. Cardiff reacted sharply, scoring the final

goal of the match to take a deserved 9-4 win. Captain Rachel Coe stated “It going to be a hard season in this division we have a number of young players coming through and all bodes well for the future. I felt the score today didn’t truly reflect the tenacity shown by this young Milford Team”. Milford Haven Ladies: Emilie Zatac, Vicki John, Kate Farr, Lucy Griffiths, Cerys Jones, Alice Wonnacott, Charlotte Davies, Emma Summons, Kacey Arran, Rachel Coe (Capt), Lucy Macintosh , Megan Owens, Amy Power This week’s game is at home to Kington, 2pm push back.

Pics credit: Eddie Davies

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Short Mat Bowls Friendly League

Cracking cross country

Get that jack!: Short Mat bowlers aiming high Last week was a free week in the schedule but the following two catch up games were played both from week two. Llanteg continued their

fine early form with a convincing win over neighbours Kilgetty. Meanwhile, Cosheston retained their unbeaten record, gaining a 9-1 over

Reynalton, who have now played and lost three games. Cosheston 9 v Reynalton 1 Llanteg 8 v Kilgetty 2.

Ready to go: Students line up at Ysgol Dyffryn Taf THE FIRST of four Brianne Secondary Schools Cross Country League fixtures headed down the A40 to Ysgol Dyffryn Taf Comprehensive School in Whitland. It’s become a popular grassroots event for secondary schools in the Carmarthenshire area having been organised for several years. The races are open to those in years 7, 8, 9 and 10. More than 250 pupils participated in the 2019/2020 series opener. This was the first opportunity for those stepping up to secondary school level in year 7 to take part in the league. The seven schools in the Brianne area Ysgol Dyffryn Aman - Ammanford; Ysgol

Maes Y Gwendraeth Cefneithin; Ysgol Bro Dinefwr - Llandeilo; Ysgol Bro Myrddin - Carmarthen; Queen Elizabeth School Carmarthen; Ysgol Dyffryn Taf - Whitland and Llandovery College Llandovery sent teams to Whitland with the hosts winning the opening match by 4 points. Year 7 Girls - 1 Mared Jones (Bro Myrddin), 2 Nieve Taylor (Dyffryn Taf), 3 Daisy Webb Asher (Bro Dinefwr), 4 Melody Devereaux (Dyffryn Aman), 5 Leah Jones (Dyffryn Aman) Year 7 Boys - 1 Macsen Toogood (Bro Dinefwr), 2 Alex Coles (Bro Dinefwr), 3 Ellis Burrows (Bro Dinefwr), 4 James Sloyan (QE High), 5 Liam Upton-Boorman

(QE High) Year 8 Girls - 1 Erin Fflur Morgan (Bro Myrddin), 2 Ellie Fuller (Dyffryn Taf), 3 Nel Davies (Maes Y Gwendraeth), 4 Mali Garland (Maes Y Gwendraeth), 5 Mari Collier (Maes Y Gwendraeth) Year 8 Boys - 1 Ifan Bowen (Bro Myrddin), 2 Harry Billingham (Dyffryn Taf), 3 Jake Lynock (Bro Dinefwr), 4 Rory Gravelle (QE High), 5 Jac Jones (Maes Y Gwendraeth) Year 9 & 10 Girls - 1 Amy Greatrick (Dyffryn Aman), 2 Jasmine Jones (Llandovery College), 3 Awen Roberts (Maes Y Gwendraeth), 4 Emma Ferns (Dyffryn Aman), 5 Millie Patterson (Bro Myrddin) Year 9 & 10 Boys

- 1 Frank Morgan (Bro Myrddin), 2 Morgan Lloyd (Bro Myrddin), 3 Ioan Cressey-Rodgers (Bro Myrddin), 4 Zach Elvy (Bro Myrddin), 5 Scott Price (Maes Y Gwendraeth) Looking ahead to the second league fixture, it will be held at Ysgol Bro Myrddin’s sports field on Tuesday, October 22, starting at 1 pm. Llandeilo and Ammanford Recreation Ground will host rounds 3 and 4 in November and at the beginning of the New Year. Pembrokeshire is the other county in Dyfed to put on these league races at this time of year and matches will be in Haverfordwest and Milford Haven over the coming weeks.

WRU Bowl - Round 2

afterwards the visitors were awarded a penalty try after some further strong scrummaging. LLanybydder responded with a try for young lock Josh Jones, which was converted by Tobias to give a half-time score of 17 – 13 to the visitors. A further try early in the second period for Rhys Baker, converted by Mikey Jones led to a 24 – 13 comfortable lead for the visitors. Strong defence by both teams prevented further scores until the clock ticked towards injury time. The match appeared to be ended as a contest, but a huge late effort by the home side ensured a dramatic finale. The ball was kept alive for several phases, eventually leading to a fine

try for No 8 and skipper Ricky Davies to bring the score to 18 - 24. LLanybydder attacked from the kick-off, keeping the ball alive. It was skipper Davies who broke several tackles to cross under the posts for his

second crucial score. The conversion by Tobias ensured a 25 – 24 morale-boosting victory for the home side. Next week, Llanybydder entertain Cardigan in Division 3 West A

Llanybydder dig deep for Haverfordwest win

LLanybydder Haverfordwest

25 24

LLANYBYDDER welcomed in-form Haverfordwest to Parc OJ, and it was the home side who eventually gained victory to progress to the next round. Fly-half Llyr Tobias scored 2 early penalties for Llanybydder, but it was the visitors who dominated territory and possession during the first half. Some fine interplay by the backs led to an excellent score for fullback Rhys Baker. The Haverfordwest forwards were strong in the set-piece, and a series of close-range scrums led to a pushover try for No 8 Ashley George, while shortly

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