The Pembrokeshire Herald 13/12/2024

New Abbot Father Jan Rossey

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Council ‘s £34m budget gap

‘the most challenging since its inception’

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL is staring down the barrel of a £34.1m funding gap for 202526. Despite a 3.6% funding increase from the Welsh Government, announced on Wednesday (Dec 11), councillors are grappling with tough decisions on tax increases and service cuts to balance the books.

Cllr Joshua Beynon, the Cabinet Member for Finance, described the situation as the most challenging financial landscape the authority has faced since its inception. He warned that rising costs and increasing demand for services have created an unsustainable financial outlook.

Expenditure is set to rise by 11.2%, leaving the Council with two options: raise taxes or cut services. Either way, difficult choices are ahead.

HIDDEN COSTS ADD MILLIONS TO BUDGET WOES

The Welsh Government’s settlement does not cover increased employers’ national insurance contributions or the costs of commissioned care services. These omissions add £2m to the Council’s budget pressures, a cost that will recur annually.

Additionally, First Minister Eluned Morgan confirmed on BBC Radio Wales Breakfast that the UK Government’s level of cost coverage for the national insurance increase will not be clear until May or June, after the increase takes effect in April. This uncertainty casts doubt on the deliverability of savings and the level of Council Tax needed to fund essential services. It’s likely that by the time clarity emerges, much of the funding increase will have been

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STATUTORY SERvICES FACE FUNDING CRUNCH

Cllr Beynon outlined the pressures of delivering statutory services like education, adult social care, and child social care. He highlighted the “rural premium” of delivering services in Pembrokeshire, where clients are often miles apart, compared to urban areas like Cardiff.

“The cost of delivering services has

far outpaced consumer price inflation,” he said. Even a proposed 11.4% Council Tax increase would leave a significant funding gap that could only be filled by service reductions. Councillors must weigh these challenges carefully when setting Council Tax next March.

Over the past 11 years, Pembrokeshire County Council has faced a cumulative funding gap of £174.8m. This has been addressed through a combination of budget savings, Council Tax increases, premiums, and reserves. Of that, 63% has come from savings and reductions, with just under a quarter from increased taxes.

COUNCILLORS DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY ON SAvINGS

Cllr Alan Dennison queried how the Council’s Budget Forecasting Tool assigned risk bands to budget elements, suggesting cross-party input was necessary. He questioned why reducing schools’ budgets appeared easier than cutting senior roles within the Education Directorate.

Chief Executive Will Bramble defended the process, explaining that risk assessments consider the feasibility of cuts and their impact on services. He assured members they could provide input on the process.

The exchange turned heated when Cllr Dennison challenged figures quoted by the Chief Executive about savings achieved. Mr Bramble refuted any suggestion of inaccuracy, promising to provide detailed figures after the meeting.

INvESTMENT IN SOCIAL CARE

The Council plans to divert £5m of reserves into a designated fund for investment in social care, aiming to build a provision pot and manage inyear budget pressures. Cllr Beynon said this move was critical to ensuring the sustainability of vital services.

NExT STEPS

The Council voted to proceed with the draft budget, which will undergo extended scrutiny in January. A series of committee meetings and a further budget seminar will determine the path forward. As Pembrokeshire councillors face a gruelling budget process, the decisions they make in the coming weeks will shape the county’s financial future and impact every resident.

Crymych pensioner guilty of animal cruelty

AN 80-YEAR-OLD Crymych woman has been handed a suspended prison sentence after admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to 11 donkeys and a pony in her care over a prolonged period.

Elizabeth Palmer, of The Retreat, Llethr-Uchaf, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Dec 11), where she pleaded guilty to two charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The court heard that between September 2023 and March 2024, Palmer failed to provide the animals with essential farrier and

dental care, leaving them in significant distress.

The offences came to light following an investigation by the RSPCA, which revealed severe neglect at Palmer’s property. One donkey had to be euthanised due to the extent of its suffering.

Magistrates described the offences as “so serious” that Palmer was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months. In addition to the custodial sentence, she was ordered to pay a £150 victim surcharge, £400 in court costs, and

£3,570.62 in prosecution costs to the RSPCA.

Palmer has also been disqualified from owning, keeping, or dealing with any animals, except for dogs and cats, for 10 years. The court further granted the RSPCA authority to seize any animals in her possession, with a five-year restriction on applying to lift the ban.

Palmer’s guilty plea was taken into account when sentencing. She has been ordered to pay her financial penalties in monthly instalments, starting from January 22, 2025.

Extensive historical child sexual abuse and institutional failings at Caldey Abbey

AN INDEPENDENT REvIEW into historical child sexual abuse at Caldey Abbey, situated on Caldey Island, Pembrokeshire, has uncovered extensive abuse by members of the monastic community and critical institutional failures in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

The report, led by safeguarding expert Jan Pickles OBE, was commissioned in April 2024 by Father Jan Rossey, the Abbot of Caldey Abbey, to address longstanding allegations and promote transparency and healing within the community.

The comprehensive review examined allegations of child sexual abuse spanning several decades, focusing on the actions of specific monks and the abbey’s responses to these allegations. It incorporated survivor testimonies, historical records, and an evaluation of the abbey’s safeguarding policies and practices

KEY FINDINGS

The review highlighted multiple monks involved in child sexual abuse, with significant attention on Father Thaddeus Kotik, who lived at the abbey from 1947 until his death in 1992. Kotik is alleged to have abused numerous children between 1972 and 1987.

The abbey failed to act on abuse allegations, allowing perpetrators to continue unchecked. Safeguarding policies were inadequate, and reports of abuse were ignored or mishandled.

Survivors have endured long-term trauma, worsened by the abbey’s failure to acknowledge their suffering or provide meaningful support.

THE REPORT OUTLINED SEvERAL KEY RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Public Apology: Acknowledge the abuse and institutional failures.

• Support for Survivors: Establish accessible counseling services and avenues for redress.

• Policy Reforms: Implement robust safeguarding policies, ensuring all staff are trained to report abuse.

• Collaboration with Authorities: Establish clear protocols for reporting allegations to law enforcement and child protection agencies.

• Ongoing Monitoring: Engage independent bodies to review safeguarding practices regularly.

RESPONSE FROM CALDEY ABBEY

Father Jan Rossey expressed deep regret for the abbey’s historical failures and committed to implementing all recommendations. He emphasized the abbey’s dedication to creating a safe environment and supporting survivors.

The findings at Caldey Abbey

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underscore a broader issue of child sexual abuse within religious institutions, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and rigorous safeguarding measures.

The abbey plans to collaborate with survivors, safeguarding experts, and authorities to ensure the effective implementation of the recommendations. Survivors and advocates stress the importance of sustained vigilance to prevent future abuse.

STATEMENT FROM ABBOT FATHER JAN ROSSEY

“It is with deep sorrow and regret that I have read in the review of the great suffering of children who were abused by Father Thaddeus Kotik and the culture of secrecy and cover-up that kept this hidden.

Opportunities were missed to stop the abuse of children. It is particularly heartbreaking to hear children spoke up to adults, and no action was taken. Children and their families were failed when they should have been supported and listened to. The abuses should have been reported to statutory authorities.

On behalf of the monastic community, I sincerely apologise to all those who have been hurt and have suffered because of the abuse of Thaddeus Kotik and past failures to protect children.

It is a matter of great shame that this abuse was allowed to happen.

We are committed to implementing all the recommendations in the review and to ensuring that safeguarding is at the heart of our mission.

We will do all that we can to support those who have been harmed and to ensure that Caldey Island is a safe place for all.”

Caldey island is a popular tourist destination for families

(Image: Herald)

Father Jan Rossey became the new abbot on Caldey Island in 2023

It is unknown how many children Father Thaddeus Kotik abused. He died in 1992 without facing justice (Image: Herald file)

Safeguarding overhaul: Caldey implements comprehensive reforms

CALDEY ISLAND has undertaken a major overhaul of its safeguarding protocols and governance structures under the leadership of Father Jan Rossey. Initially appointed as acting Abbot in January 2023, Father Jan was confirmed in the role in April 2024 and has since spearheaded a series of reforms to enhance the safety and well-being of residents and visitors to the island.

LEADERSHIP AND GOvERNANCE

One of the key developments has been a reshaping of the abbey’s leadership framework. In June 2023, Caldey appointed a new Island Manager alongside a volunteer Safeguarding Lead to focus on ensuring the highest standards of safety. By July 2023, a revised Board of Directors and Trustees was established, including lay members with legal and financial expertise. Safeguarding now features as a standing agenda item in the Board’s bi-monthly meetings, ensuring it remains a priority. Further governance changes have made the Island Manager directly accountable to the Board, supported by newly agreed Terms of Reference and other governance structures.

STRENGTHENING SAFEGUARDING PRACTICES

Caldey Abbey has conducted a thorough review of its safeguarding files, completed in December 2023, and commissioned an external review into historical abuse allegations. Initially launched in March 2024, this review was expanded in June 2024 to include all

allegations, both historical and recent. Training and enhanced policies

Ahead of the 2024 tourist season, the abbey provided safeguarding training to all monks, employees, volunteers, and islanders to bolster awareness and improve reporting mechanisms. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks were also expanded to include all individuals working or residing on the island. The monastic community underwent DBS checks as early as January 2023.

New policies have been introduced to address safeguarding concerns comprehensively. These include a code titled Caring Safely for Others, which monks must read and agree to, and updated processes for tenant and visiting priest applications that require rigorous vetting.

In collaboration with local authorities, the abbey has also adopted missing child forms and emergency planning measures. Safeguarding posters and dedicated reporting channels via phone and email have been implemented, making it easier for concerns to be raised.

ExPERTISE AND COLLABORATION

A key milestone in 2024 was the appointment of a part-time Professional Safeguarding Lead, a qualified social worker, to oversee the abbey’s safeguarding practices. Additionally, a Safeguarding Subcommittee comprising independent professionals in health, education, and human resources now provides oversight.

The introduction of a GDPRcompliant system, My Concern, has further enhanced the secure storage and analysis of safeguarding concerns.

Caldey Abbey has also strengthened its partnerships with Pembrokeshire County Council and Dyfed-Powys Police, ensuring appropriate safeguarding referrals are made when necessary. The abbey benefits from guidance provided by Religious Life Safeguarding Services (RLSS) and is preparing for an audit by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) in 2025.

A SAFER FUTURE

Looking ahead, Caldey Abbey has advertised for a permanent part-time

Safeguarding Lead and continues to expand its safeguarding culture. These reforms are part of a wider commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable individuals. The Herald says: The publication of this report is a significant step toward justice and healing for the victims. It serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals in all communities. The measures now in place mark a significant step forward for Caldey Abbey, signaling a new chapter that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all who live on or visit the island.

Caldey island is a popular tourist destination for families (Image: Herald)

Seventeen deaths at Parc Prison: Calls for action after MP inquiry

SMUGGLING PROBLEMS

PERSIST

DRUGS smuggled into Parc Prison in Bridgend using drones, staff corruption, and even children’s nappies are contributing to a crisis that has seen 17 inmate deaths this year. MPs have grilled the management of the G4S-run facility – which houses many offenders from Pembrokeshire – over safety and governance issues.

Will Styles, director of HMP Parc, told the Welsh Affairs Select Committee that contraband enters the prison via several routes. “It can be thrown over the wall, brought in by visitors – hidden in bodily orifices or children’s nappies – or through staff corruption,” he explained.

Organised crime gangs, particularly those based in Wales and the Midlands, are exploiting drone technology to smuggle illicit items. “It takes 20 seconds to fly a drone over the wall, drop drugs, and exit the premises,” said Gordon Brockington, G4S managing director. “Even small amounts of drugs can cause enormous problems.”

DEATHS UNDER SCRUTINY

The committee heard that of the 17 deaths at the prison this year, eight were from natural causes, three were selfinflicted, and five were drug-related. Parc Prison houses an ageing population, with 16% of inmates aged over 50, and serves as one of two palliative care centres in the UK.

Mr Brockington highlighted the threat of nitazenes, synthetic opioids up to 1,000 times more potent than morphine, which were introduced into the prison earlier this year. Despite these challenges, he insisted that the majority of staff are not corrupt.

PROGRESS BUT MORE TO DO

Ruth Jones, chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, pressed prison officials on whether inmates can be guaranteed safety. Mr Styles responded: “An awful lot of work has gone into improving safety and security. Self-harm and violence metrics have significantly improved, and there have been no non-natural deaths

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since June.”

Inmates have also reported feeling safer, and improvements to prison conditions and regimes have been noted. However, Ms Jones expressed concerns about ongoing issues, particularly the introduction of new drugs like nitazenes and the smuggling of tiny mobile phones designed to evade security.

FUTURE STEPS

The committee acknowledged that

progress has been made but emphasized the need for continued efforts. Ms Jones said: “Seventeen deaths in one year is a tragedy and raises serious questions about safety. Frontline staff must be better trained to address emerging threats. Additionally, the Government must act swiftly to address the smuggling of mobile phones designed to evade security.”

The committee also noted that plans to expand Parc Prison would require addressing staffing and healthcare concerns. Ms Jones confirmed that her committee would monitor progress closely and revisit the issue if necessary.

MINISTER BACKS G4S CONTRACT

The UK Government’s Prisons Minister, Lord James Timpson, told the committee he has no plans to strip G4S of its contract to run HMP Parc. Responding to questions from the committee’s chair, Ruth Jones, Lord Timpson said he was impressed by improvements during a recent visit and saw no reason to cancel the contract.

“I’ve seen a number of prisons over the years, both in private and public ownership. It comes down to leadership and focus over the long term,” Lord Timpson said. “Despite the challenges, I think they did a lot of good things at HMP Parc, and the reasons to close a contract aren’t present in this case.”

DRUGS IN PRISONS: A PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS

Lord Timpson admitted that tackling drugs in prisons like Parc remains a significant challenge. “We have a long way to go on drugs,” he said. “We need to see it as a public health problem and ensure opportunities for inmates to turn their lives around. Substance-free wings, education, purposeful activity, and building meaningful relationships with officers are key.”

The minister emphasized the importance of reducing reoffending through rehabilitation efforts, saying: “If we can help people leave prison free of drugs or alcohol, it will make a massive difference to reoffending rates.”

SECURITY AND STAFFING IMPROvEMENTS

Will Styles told MPs that security checks on staff have increased five-fold since June, and staffing levels have improved. “The vast majority of staff are not corrupt,” he stressed, adding that work is ongoing to address smuggling routes, including industrial-scale drone drops organized by crime gangs.

Parc Prison’s management and the UK Government face mounting pressure to implement lasting solutions to safety and governance challenges. The Welsh Affairs Select Committee has pledged to continue monitoring progress closely.

Milford man denies assault and knife possession charges

A MILFORD HAvEN man is to appear before magistrates for trial after allegedly assaulting a woman in Neyland and causing criminal damage to her property.

Reece Cookson, 33, is also accused of possessing a knife or a sharp-bladed article when he was arrested by police on December 6. Cookson, of Hawthorn Path, Mount Estate, Milford Haven is accused of assaulting Cherrelle McCalla by beating on December 6 and of causing criminal damage to her property. Details of

the damage caused were not given to Haverfordwest magistrates when Cookson appeared before them on Tuesday.

After denying all three charges, magistrates adjourned the case until January 23 when his trial will take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court. Cookson was released on conditional bail, the conditions being that he lives and sleeps at his home address and he does not contact, directly or indirectly, Cherrelle McCalla.

There was disorder in Parc Prison earlier in 2024, support was sent from other prisons (Image: Herald file)

Parc Prison: Drug overdoses caused by the misuse of Nitazenes have killed inmates, MPs heard (Image: File)

Narberth mother banned from driving after drink-drive crash

A MOTHER of four has been disqualified from driving after crashing her Mercedes sports car when she was almost twice over the legal drink-drive limit.

Claire Moore, 51, drove her Mercedes 180 Sport into a wall on the A478 just before midnight on November 23 following a night out with her friends.

“She’d had a few drinks and naively thought she wasn’t over the limit,” her solicitor, Liam Francis, told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“But she left the pub and very foolishly drove back home. She recognises the seriousness, particularly because she crashed the vehicle, but she knows it could have been a lot worse.”

Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker said that Moore’s Mercedes Sport was

discovered by police officers who were travelling from Templeton to Narberth on the night in question.

“It was a single vehicle road accident where the car had collided with a wall,” she said. “There was extensive damage to the front of the car and the defendant was the sole occupant.”

A roadside breath test carried out on Moore proved positive while subsequent breath tests at the police custody suite gave a reading of 69 mcg. The legal limit is 35.

Moore, of Allensbank, Providence Hill, Narberth, pleaded guilty to drinkdriving. She was disqualified from driving for 18 months, fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge.

Cardiff man wanted for theft and drug charges after failing to appear

A WARRANT without bail has been issued for a man accused of stealing over £80 of items from Pennar Post Office in Pembroke Dock.

Sean McGahn, 35, is accused of stealing the items on April 3. The same day he is alleged to have stolen items of an unknown value from Victoria Scott in Pembroke Dock and to have

been in possession of cocaine and 17 capsules of the class C controlled drug, Tremadol.

McGhan, of Clos Parc Morgannwg, Leckwith, Cardiff, was listed to appear before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday. Following his failure to attend, magistrates issued a warrant without bail for his arrest.

Motorist faces sentencing after drink-driving plea

A 59-YEAR-OLD motorist has admitted driving through Clarbeston Road when he was more than twice over the legal drink-drive limit.

Andrew John was stopped on November 20 as he drove his Vauxhall Monaro through the Market Place, Clarbeston Road. Subsequent breath tests showed he had 89 mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35.

John, of Nant yr Eglwys, Ambleston, pleaded guilty to an additional charge of driving otherwise than in accordance

Motorist banned again for drug-driving offence

ALMOST a year to the day that Carl Whatling was convicted of drug-driving, the Milford motorist returned to the dock to plead guilty to driving after taking cocaine.

Whatling, 40, was pulled over by police officers as he drove his VW Polo along the A477 at Cleddau Bridge in the early hours of June 5.

A drugs wipe carried out by officers proved positive while further blood tests at the police station showed he had 200 mcg of the cocaine derivative benzoylecgonine in his system. The legal limit is 50.

This week Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest magistrates that on December 6, 2023, Whatling was convicted of an identical drugdriving charge.

“He was being naive,” his solicitor, Liam Francis, told the Bench after Whatling, of Observatory Avenue, Hakin, pleaded guilty to the charge.

“This was a Wednesday night and he’d taken the substances a few days before. At the time of the offence,

he was in a low place and his drug use had increased. He was having very little support from his family and friends.”

Mr Francis went on to say that since the offence was committed, Whatling has been in contact with his GP.

“He now feels that he’s making progress and he’s in a much better place,” he said.

After pleading guilty to the charge, Whatling was disqualified from driving for 14 months.

He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 court surcharge.

with a licence.

Despite his guilty pleas, magistrates adjourned sentencing following a request from probation officer Julie Norman. She said that as a result of John’s previous convictions, a full probation report will be required before sentencing can take place.

The case was adjourned to January 8, and magistrates imposed an interim disqualification which prevents John from driving until his sentencing takes place.

North Court drug dealer who offered OAP discounts jailed

A DRUG dealer who styled himself as a “professional businessman” and offered so-called discounts to NHS workers and the elderly has been sentenced to a total of three years and four months in prison.

Nathan Murdoch, previously of North Court, Haverfordwest was given his custodial sentence at Swansea Crown Court after police dismantled his drug distribution network, which involved cannabis, cocaine, and MDMA.

Police uncover drugs and cash in raid

On June 16 last year, officers visited Murdoch’s property, where he initially admitted to possessing “a small amount” of cannabis. However, a detailed search revealed over £3,000 worth of cannabis and cocaine, £2,800 in cash, and digital weighing scales, according to prosecutor Sian Cutter.

Analysis of Murdoch’s mobile phone exposed text messages detailing his drug dealing, which had been ongoing since at least October 2021. The messages suggested he had also enlisted someone else to distribute drugs, with records of threats and demands for payment.

Targeting NHS workers with deals

The court heard that 35-yearold Murdoch referred to himself as a

Court Reporter

“businessman” and ran his operation with a veneer of professionalism. He promoted discounts for NHS workers, pensioners, and individuals facing financial hardship.

Defence barrister Dan Griffiths argued that Murdoch had turned to drug dealing after experiencing personal difficulties, describing the venture as “financially motivated.” Griffiths added: “He acknowledges the seriousness of his actions and views his arrest as a turning point.”

Judge: ‘Your choices have consequences’

Judge Paul Thomas KC told Murdoch: “You made a calculated decision to profit from illegal drug sales. You saw it as easy money, but the reality is clear: you gambled, and you lost. Now, you must face the consequences.”

Murdoch, now residing in Swansea, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis, as well as being involved in the supply of cocaine, MDMA, and cannabis. The court heard he had five prior convictions for six offences.

Warrant issued for man accused of assault

A WARRANT without bail has been issued for David Guy, the Haverfordwest man accused of assaulting a person in Market Street, Haverfordwest, causing him actual bodily harm.

Guy, 48, of Market Street, Haverfordwest, was scheduled to appear before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday, December 10. However, following his non-appearance, magistrates issued a warrant for his arrest without bail.

Guy is accused of assaulting Mr Andrew Mark Lloyd during an alleged incident in the town centre on August 8.

Man denies refusing blood specimen to police

A HAvERFORDWEST man is to appear before magistrates for trial after refusing to provide a blood specimen to police officers.

Jamie Wilkinson was suspected of driving a vehicle on November 24 when not authorised to do so. However, the Crown claims that when he was asked to provide a blood specimen for

further laboratory testing at Withybush Hospital, he refused to cooperate.

This week Wilkinson, 22, of North Court, Haverfordwest, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates where he denied the offence.

His trial will now take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court on January 30, 2025

Man, 83, dies in property fire near Llanybydder

AN 83-YEAR-OLD man has tragically died in a fire that caused extensive damage to a property in Drefach, Llanybydder.

Emergency services were alerted to the blaze at around 12:20pm yesterday (Dec 11). Despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

A joint investigation by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Dyfed-Powys Police is underway to determine the cause of the fire. Early reports indicate that the fire, which was contained to a single property, is not being treated as suspicious. Investigators are expected to remain at the scene over the weekend.

The incident prompted the closure of the A475 Drefach-Rhydowen road, with Dyfed-Powys Police shutting it between the B4338 (Llanybydder turn-off) and the B4459 (Capel Dewi turn-off) to ensure public safety. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

A police statement said: “The road is currently closed due to an incident. Please avoid the area and find alternative routes for your journey.”

The fire brigade said :”At 12.12pm on Wednesday, December 11th, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Tregaron, Lampeter, Aberaeron and Aberystwyth Fire Stations were called to an incident in Drefach in

Llanybydder.

“Crews responded to a two-storey, domestic property, that was well alight on their arrival and fully involved in fire. Crews utilised three hose reel jets, one 45mm jet, one light portable pump and thermal imaging cameras to extinguish the fire. A turntable ladder appliance was also used as a water tower.

“An adjoining property was assessed with no signs of fire spread found.

“Sadly, one man, aged 83, died at the scene.

“An investigation is underway to find out the cause of the fire, with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service investigators and Dyfed-Powys Police

crime scene investigators likely to be at the house over the weekend.

“The fire, which was contained to one property, is not being treated as suspicious at this time.”

Jury shown graphic images in Saundersfoot pub assault trial

A JURY at Swansea Crown Court has been shown graphic images of injuries sustained by a man whose lip was bitten off during an altercation at a Saundersfoot pub.

The incident occurred on October 28, 2022, when Stephen Kanauros visited The Boathouse to celebrate his daughter’s birthday with his wife, Kate, their daughter, and her boyfriend.

The Crown alleges that shortly before 10:30 pm, James O’Neill, 53, from Merthyr Tydfil, struck Mr. Kanauros to the ground.

CCTV footage played in court on Monday showed Mr. Kanauros surrounded by O’Neill, his son, Aron O’Neill, 25, and his nephew, Shaun Nicholas, 24. Moments later, Mr. Kanauros stood up with blood pouring from his mouth.

“James O’Neill had bitten a part of his

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lip off,” Dyfed Thomas KC, prosecuting, told the jury. “The section that had been bitten off was later found on the floor.”

The court also heard that James O’Neill bit Mr. Kanauros’ finger during the altercation. “He intended to cause harm— really serious harm—and he certainly achieved it,” added Mr. Thomas.

CHARGES AND ALLEGATIONS

James O’Neill denies charges of grievous bodily harm with intent and a lesser charge of causing grievous bodily harm. Aron O’Neill, of Dane Street, Merthyr Tydfil, and Shaun Nicholas, of Japonica

Drive, Dowlais, both deny causing actual bodily harm to Mr. Kanauros.

The prosecution claims the violence stemmed from James O’Neill’s anger after bar staff questioned his daughter, Lowri O’Neill, about her ID while she was buying alcohol. Following the exchange, staff asked the group to leave.

“James O’Neill responded angrily, blowing vape smoke towards the staff and calling them the ‘c’ word,” said Mr. Thomas. “He was then seen confronting another man near the door, beckoning him outside for a fight.”

EvENTS LEADING TO vIOLENCE

The jury was shown CCTV footage of Kate Kanauros dancing near her husband, who stood by the bar, before the

altercation escalated. James O’Neill was seen walking through the bar as others, including Mrs. Kanauros, tried to usher him outside to defuse the situation.

The footage showed James O’Neill pushing Mrs. Kanauros, causing her to fall backwards. “The complainant then stepped in,” said Mr. Thomas. “You may think it was to protect his wife or because he was angry that she had been assaulted.”

The prosecution argued that James O’Neill’s claim of self-defence was unfounded. “He had already displayed aggression towards staff and another individual at the door,” said Mr. Thomas. “To claim he was acting in self-defence is simply untrue.”

The trial continues and is expected to conclude early next week.

Four dogs in poor condition found at Pembroke Dock property

A MAN has been sentenced after four dogs were discovered living in squalid conditions in a Pembroke Dock property, which was littered with rubbish and contaminated with faeces and urine.

The animals—a male chow, two bulldog-type dogs (one male and one female), and a male lurcher—were found in January 2024 in a state of neglect. Two of the dogs were confined to cages, with one described as being in an appalling condition.

The male chow, found with a matted coat contaminated with faeces, was

in such poor health that he appeared unresponsive. The female bulldog-type dog, also in a cage, had no bedding or water, although dry dog food was present. The environment was described as filthy and unsuitable for any animals.

COURT PROCEEDINGS

Kane Robert Jake Watson (24), of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to three offences under the Animal Welfare Act. He appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Nov 27), where he was handed a 32-week prison sentence,

suspended for two years. Watson was also ordered to carry out 300 hours of unpaid work, pay £750 in costs, and was disqualified from keeping animals for 10 years.

FAILURE TO CARE FOR ANIMALS

Watson admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to the male chow and the female bulldog by failing to investigate and address their poor condition and weight loss. He also failed to provide necessary veterinary care for the bulldog’s skin condition. Additionally, he was found guilty of failing to meet the basic needs of all four dogs, including providing a suitable environment, fresh drinking water, and adequate care and supervision.

INSPECTOR’S STATEMENT

RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben attended the property on January 24, 2024, following a request from the local dog warden to conduct a welfare check. “I entered the property, and the smell of dog faeces and urine made me cough,” said Inspector Hogben. “The environment

was filthy, wet, and strewn with household rubbish. Dog faeces and urine were on the floor.”

He described finding the male chow in a cage without water and with a heavily matted coat. “The chow was in poor condition and smelled disgusting. The female bulldog in the adjacent cage was lean and had no water or bedding, although dry food was present.”

Two other dogs, a bulldog with a cherry eye and a lurcher, were found elsewhere in the property. While they appeared in better health, the environment was deemed unsuitable for them.

OUTCOME FOR THE DOGS

Following a veterinary assessment, the male chow and female bulldog were determined to be in a state of suffering. The chow’s health deteriorated further despite treatment, and he was humanely euthanized. The remaining dogs were taken into police care and rehomed. This case highlights the serious consequences of neglecting animals and the importance of maintaining proper living conditions to meet their welfare needs.

Man accused of ‘parasitic behaviour’ used woman for sex, money and drink

A PEMBROKESHIRE man accused of exploiting a vulnerable woman for sex, accommodation, finances, and alcohol has been made the subject of an interim Stalking Protection Order.

Mark Ion, 53, is set to be released from custody next Thursday, December 19.

This week, Dyfed-Powys Police solicitor Simon Schwarz urged Haverfordwest magistrates to impose the order to protect the victim, whom he described as “vulnerable, with drug and alcohol addiction issues.”

“She has been preyed upon by the defendant since September 2023,” Mr Schwarz told the court on Tuesday (Dec 10). “He has demonstrated parasitic behaviour towards her, using her for accommodation, finances, drink, and sex.

As soon as he’s released, he’ll be back, exhibiting coercive and controlling behaviour. His criminal record shows extreme violence towards women.”

Ion is accused of a prolonged period of control and abuse over the victim, with incidents dating back to October 2023.

Mr Schwarz presented harrowing evidence of Ion’s behaviour, including instances of violence and coercion.

• October 6, 2023: A member of the public reported seeing Ion with the

victim on a bench in Haverfordwest. The victim appeared intoxicated and barely conscious, slumped against Ion, who was seen with his hands inside her trousers. The victim was taken to the hospital but had no memory of the incident.

• October 30, 2023: A 999 call led officers to an address in Slade Park, Haverfordwest, where the victim was found with a swollen

eye. She alleged that Ion had hit her. At the time, Ion was subject to a restraining order prohibiting contact with another woman living on the same street as the victim.

• October 24, 2023: Ion and the victim were seen arguing on a bus from Haverfordwest to Pembroke Dock. Ion, drinking whisky, threatened to hit the victim with the bottle and struck another woman who

intervened. This assault led to a custodial sentence.

• November 21, 2023: A neighbour called 999 after hearing someone kicking the victim’s door. Ion was heard shouting, “Open the door, you f****** bitch,” while the victim was described as cowering like “a timid animal.”

Further incidents occurred, including a violent attack on June 8, 2024, when Ion punched the victim after she refused to have sex with him.

According to Mr Schwarz, Ion continued to harass the victim while in custody, sending letters that terrified her, including claims they would marry and have children.

Ion, currently serving a custodial sentence for an unrelated matter, appeared via video link from HM Parc Prison in Bridgend. He became aggressive during the hearing, leading prison staff to mute his comments.

After reviewing the evidence, magistrates imposed an interim Stalking Protection Order, effective from Ion’s release until a full hearing at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on December 31. The order aims to safeguard the victim and prevent further contact.

“This is a woman who needs protection. It’s now clear her life is at risk,” Mr Schwarz concluded.

Town could introduce car park charges to save public toilets

A NORTH Pembrokeshire beachside car park could be given to the local town council to use as a source of funding to keep its closurethreatened public toilet open, in a proposal before the national park next week.

Members of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, meeting on December 11, are recommended to approve the surrender of the existing National Park Authority lease of the 40-vehicle Newport Parrog car park and listed lime kiln to Newport Town Council.

A report for members says the Park acquired an 80-year lease at a “nominal rent” of £268 a year on the site back in 1996.

The report says the continued existence of the lease prevents the Park or anyone else from introducing parking charges, with a special covenant in its conditions.

Adjoining the car park is a public toilet which the county council intends to close in early 2025, unless another party is willing to step forward and assume responsibility for its continuing management and operation, the report says.

“Newport Town Council has stated their willingness to assume that responsibility conditional upon them being able to generate a longterm revenue stream to cover its operating costs. They have identified the introduction of parking charges for the car park as a means of raising that revenue stream.

“It is an unusual step for a local community to advocate for the imposition of car park charges upon itself, although their reasons for doing so in this instance are quite clear, and has already received a mandate of support from within the local community.

“To give effect to that mandate, Newport Town Council need to secure two principal objectives: Long-term control of the subject land: they have already agreed terms with our landlord

(The Baroney of Cemmas, Alex Hawksworthy) to acquire his freehold of the subject land and the public toilets. Secure full vacant possession of the subject land by taking a surrender of the Authority’s remaining unexpired lease term thereby allowing them to introduce parking charges in their capacity as the owner-operator of the subect land.”

The report, recommending delegated approval be given to its chief executive to complete the surrender, concludes: “The continuation of the National Park lease represents an unfunded long-term liability for the Authority and also frustrates Newport Town Councils ability to protect and secure the at-risk public toilet facilities.

“The proposal put forward by Newport Town Council is considered to be a creative and practical longterm solution which would see both the freehold of the car park, lime kiln and public toilet facility pass from private control into local public ownership and remain available for public use under the direct control of Newport Town Council.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Pembrokeshire loses out as Labour ‘rewards its heartlands’

THE HEADLINE figure is an average rise in Welsh local authority budgets by 4.3%. Every Welsh rural council got less than that.

From Monmouthshire in the east to Anglesey in the north to Pembrokeshire in the west, the funding bonanza trumpeted by the Welsh Government as part of the best financial settlement since devolution turned into a damp, wet fart. No rural authority got the average settlement; only Carmarthenshire came close with a 4.1 increase. Meanwhile, Labour councils in the Valleys and metropolitan areas all experienced above-average rises in Welsh Government funding. Not impressed: Pembrokeshire’s Sam Kurtz MS has blasted the Welsh Government

Local MS Sam Kurtz said, “It’s clear that the Welsh Labour Government is looking after their heartlands first and foremost as we run up to the Senedd election and is ignoring the needs of others.

“Delivering services in rural areas costs more; it’s the rural premium, but for the Welsh Labour Government to ignore this shows them at their worst.

“Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire county councils are asked to do more and more. It’s only right that they are supported correctly to deliver those services. Sadly, this provisional settlement falls well short of what is required.”

WG “TAKING PEMBROKESHIRE PUBLIC FOR FOOLS”

County Councillor Aled Thomas JP says Labour is taking the Pembrokeshire public for fools Pembrokeshire Conservative county councillor Aled Thomas said: “Labour is taking the Pembrokeshire public for fools, claiming that today’s announcement is good for Pembrokeshire when the reality is that our rural communities are being left behind once again.

“Labour is giving with one hand and taking away with the other, with a significant proportion of this additional money already spent on increased national insurance contributions.

“Pembrokeshire’s Labour cabinet member for finance must now commit that this money will be spent on core services and not wasted on vanity projects as we have seen time and again in the county.”

Whether Josh Beynon, Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, rises to that challenge remains to be seen. Our request for a response to the Welsh Government’s funding settlement for Pembrokeshire was refused.

SETTLEMENT SHOWS WHERE LOYALTIES LIE

The Independent Group was not as shy.

“The Welsh Government settlement lays bare where their true loyalties lie and the battleground for Senedd 2026 where Labour will concentrate their resources on protecting their established strongholds at all costs. “They may deny it, but that’s the appearance with healthier WG settlements of above 5% for Cardiff, Newport and Merthyr compared to 3.6% for Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Anglesey and even less for Gwynedd at 3.2%. Inflation is currently at 2.3%, meaning the real increase for Pembrokeshire is around 1.3%, and higher inflation over the next few months will erode the value of this settlement further.

“Furthermore, all local authorities are currently having to accept the consequence of the Chancellor’s rise of National Insurance, with Mark Drakeford revealing that there will be no decision from the UK government on NI compensation for public sector

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

employers until May 2025, meaning much of the additional AEF will have already been swallowed up, a decision that needs to be taken sooner rather than later many would suggest.”

CONSULTATION UNDERWAY

The Independent Group spokesperson continued: “Today launches six weeks of formal consultation on the settlement for 2024-25, ending on Friday, January 24, 2025.

“We hope that the current administration will use this process to articulate the concerns of many, that the settlement is not sufficient to cover the financial pressure faced by Pembrokeshire and argue for additional support, even if targeted towards areas of significant concern

such as Social Care.

“The reality for us in Pembrokeshire is that providing the services our residents expect and rightly deserve has just become a lot more difficult with this settlement, which can only be described as disappointing.

“As a direct result of this AEF settlement, we will inevitably face a higher than wished-for Council Tax rise in April 2025, and much of the responsibility will sit with Cardiff.

“Pembrokeshire has the joint highest second home council tax in Wales, and we will almost certainly increase the level of tax on empty homes. Many of us in County Hall cannot be accused of shirking tough decisions that best serve our residents.

“We have significant Social Care pressures, which is a common theme across all Welsh local authorities. We have many schools falling into deficit, with Ysgol y Preseli, Milford Haven & Greenhill in dire need of a total overhaul to provide the facilities our young deserve. We hope that the Welsh Government will see fit to allocate Pembrokeshire a generous element of the £1.04bn for the capital grant they have provisionally allocated in this settlement for all of Wales. The continuation of the 40% business relief for tourism, hospitality and leisure businesses is welcomed for an industry that employs 23% of our working population.

COUNCIL TAx AFFORDABILITY CRUCIAL

“The Independent Group will focus on the need to protect essential services whilst addressing the ability of hard-pressed households to afford further Council Tax rises next April.

“In a week when the local authority, partner agencies, and many volunteers have stood up to Storm Darragh’s challenges, the least our residents deserved was more bad news with today’s Welsh Government settlement for Pembrokeshire.

“Storm Darragh’s impact highlighted the need for careful management of Council reserves. Using up reserves cannot continue year on year. Therefore, any proposal for their future use must be carefully considered before we can support it. Once used, these reserves are not available for future eventualities.

“Without additional support, this settlement will result in even higher Council tax bills in four months.”

The spokesperson concluded: “As the largest opposition group within County Hall, we will hold this administration to account in the forthcoming weeks and months prior to setting the Council Tax for 2025/26. We will be critical friends in this task and will not shirk from asking difficult questions.”

Not impressed: Pembrokeshire’s Sam Kurtz MS has blasted the Welsh Government

County Councillor Aled Thomas JP says Labour is taking the Pembrokeshire public for fools

Global Green Hydrogen pioneers make Milford Haven their new HQ

Haush Ltd plans to be the first of its kind to offer green hydrogen to decarbonise land, sea and air transportation as well as fuel exports to Europe.

Haush Ltd, a green energy and technology company specialising in green hydrogen, has today officially announced Milford Haven as their new

HQ as they press ahead with plans to make the area a green hydrogen powerhouse.

Work on their Fleet Surgeons House HQ will now commence imminently, with the immediate creation of the first jobs and plans to develop an education centre.

Welsh Government is supporting

Haush through the HYBRID SBRI Hydrogen Port Re-Fuelling Project (HyPR).

The project is developing trials to fast-track hydrogen production and refuelling services for onshore and offshore servicing of vessel fleets.

This includes designing a permanent hydrogen refuelling solution for the

Port of Milford Haven.

Economy, Energy and Planning Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Evans was given a tour of the new Milford Haven site by Haush CEO Richard Winterbourne, CTO Joanna Oliver, COO Adam Hill and CFO Peter Kristensen yesterday [Thursday 12th].

Rebecca Evans said:

“Jobs and green growth are a priority for this Welsh Government, so I am delighted Haush has chosen to make Milford Haven the base of its new UK head office.

“The company has ambitious growth plans, which align with our own aspirations to see Wales become a global leader in new renewable energy generation. This investment will be good for our climate and our economy, and will generate quality, skilled jobs.

“Haush has indicated its intention to train local residents to the highest standards for all of the jobs created in Milford Haven, and to expand to the surrounding community the educational aspect of all they do.”

Haush CEO Richard Winterbourne said:

“Haush is delighted to be able to make this announcement today, and to be taking this exciting green hydrogen production project forward. We look forward to working handin-hand with Welsh Government to maximise the training and educational opportunities for the local community, including equipping a future workforce with a transferable skills set.”

Haush CTO Joanna Oliver added:

“Haush will be operating at the leading edge of green hydrogen technology and hope to play a major role in making the local green energy transition a reality.”

Plans to relocate Pembroke Dock police station submitted

AN APPLICATION to move Pembroke Dock’s police station from its “no longer fit for purpose” Water Street location to a former council building have been submitted to county planners.

Dyfed Powys Police, through agent Asbri Planning Ltd is seeking a change of use of the former Public Information Centre, Argyle Street, Pembroke Dock to a police station.

A supporting statement says the former Public information Centre has been deemed surplus to requirements due to changes in working patterns, with Dyfed Powys Police declaring a strong interest in purchasing the property “to enable a more efficient building to house their new model

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

hub for policing” than its current building in nearby Water Street.

It adds: “Should planning be approved, Dyfed Powys Police will progress with the sale of the current police station with the property then being advertised for sale on the open market.”

The statement says: “The Public information Centre was formerly used by Pembrokeshire Council to accommodate a number of services including adult and children social services and housing. The use of the building was predominantly used as an office for council operatives,

however, due to a shift in working environment and the council employing a flexible approach to working, the use of the building was deemed surplus to requirements. Accordingly, the use of the building by the Council ceased in early 2024 and the and the services moved online. The building has been vacant since and it is an expense to the council to keep maintain the building with no business use.”

It goes on to say: “The proposed re-location of the police operation

from Water Street to Argyle Street will require no alterations to the building; it is considered adequate for the intended use with no changes required. The nature of policing also means the transition should be seamless as it is akin to a business use moving back into the property. The office is served by adequate parking for the intended number of employees without a need for any additional spaces.”

The application will be considered by county planners at a later date.

£1 billion boost to Welsh Economy as ultrafast broadband reaches 1 million

A REPORT from the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) and Stantec reveals that Openreach’s ongoing rollout of Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband could inject £1 billion into the Welsh economy by 2029.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

This prediction coincides with a major milestone: over one million homes and businesses in Wales now have access to ultrafast Full Fibre broadband via Openreach’s network.

The research, commissioned by Openreach, highlights the transformative potential of Full Fibre broadband, including economic growth, job creation, and enhanced social connectivity.

Lion Hotel: A digital transformation

success story

Treorchy’s award-winning Lion Hotel is among the properties celebrating the broadband milestone. Known as a community hub and a venue for study groups, meetings, and co-working, the Lion Hotel has embraced digital transformation with the installation of ultrafast broadband.

Adrian Emmett, the hotel’s owner, explained: “Since coming out of lockdown, we’ve digitised our business systems, including music, tills, CCTV, and bookings. But our Wi-Fi often struggled, letting down customers who use the Lion Hotel as a shared working space. With ultrafast broadband, we can now provide a seamless experience. It’s a game changer for our business and the community.”

The Lion Hotel has also installed interactive dart systems and plans to expand its TikTok presence, which already boasts 127,000 followers and 260 million views. Emmett added:

“With ultrafast broadband, the sky’s the limit. We can now explore live streaming and other opportunities that weren’t possible before.”

Economic and social benefits

The Cebr report outlines the extensive benefits of Full Fibre broadband:

• Economic Growth: Contributing £66 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy by 2029.

• Job Creation: Enabling 620,000 people, including parents and older workers, to re-enter the workforce through flexible opportunities.

• Healthcare Advancements: Supporting five million online appointments annually by 2029— double the current figure.

• Educational Gains: Improving pass rates for 21,700 students in key subjects.

• Property Value Increases:

Boosting the average home value by £1,900.

• Environmental Impact: Reducing car journeys and carbon emissions by allowing 1.4 million more people to work from home.

GOvERNMENT SUPPORT AND FUTURE PLANS

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens praised the milestone, stating:

“Reaching one million properties in Wales with ultrafast broadband is a significant achievement. Full Fibre broadband is essential for boosting growth and productivity in communities across Wales.”

Rebecca Evans, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, added: “The Welsh Government is committed to delivering the connectivity services that businesses, the public sector, and homes in Wales need to thrive. This milestone is a testament to that commitment.”

Openreach aims to expand its Fibre network to 25 million UK premises by 2026, with plans to reach 30 million by the decade’s end. Suzanne Rutherford, from Openreach’s Complex Engineering Wales, said:

“With Full Fibre now available to one million Welsh homes and businesses, we’re laying the groundwork for economic growth, job creation, and increased opportunities for remote work and digital innovation.”

To check Full Fibre availability, residents can use the Openreach postcode checker and contact their broadband provider to upgrade. More details can be found in the Cebr report at openreach.com/about/policy-hub.

Outcry from residents as council proposes closing Pembroke Pool

County Council is looking to save money by shutting faciltiies

LOCAL residents and community leaders have expressed outrage following Pembrokeshire County Council’s proposal to close Pembroke Pool as part of its 2025-26 budget consultation. The suggestion has sparked a wave of criticism, with the Pembroke Town Team labeling the move “truly disgusting” and urging locals to voice their objections.

Pembroke Town Team said on social media that the proposal came to their

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attention after it was shared in a private group chat, leading to widespread disbelief and anger among pool users and community advocates. The pool, a popular hub for swimming lessons, fitness sessions, club activities, and children’s parties, is described as consistently busy and a vital facility for

the town.

One community member said: “This is shocking news. Pembroke Pool is always bustling, and instead of closing it, it should receive investment from levelling-up funds to enhance its services.”

The council’s budget consultation documents outline the proposed closure as part of cost-saving measures, prompting calls for residents to respond through the consultation process. The Pembroke Town Team has urged locals to complete the consultation form and make their objections known, emphasizing the pool’s importance to the community.

WIDESPREAD IMPACT

The potential closure has raised concerns about the impact on swimming clubs, fitness groups, and the wider

community, including schools that rely on the pool for lessons. Parents, fitness enthusiasts, and club members have taken to social media to rally against the decision, calling on Pembrokeshire County Council to reconsider.

“This is not just a pool; it’s a community lifeline,” one user commented on social media.

Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation process via the council’s website. Pembrokeshire County Council has yet to respond to the criticism, but the consultation period remains open, providing an opportunity for voices to be heard.

To have your say on the proposed closure, visit the council’s consultation page: Pembrokeshire Budget Consultation 2025-26.

The Pembroke Town Team is urging residents to share the consultation link and encourage others to participate.

Pet owners want more clarity around vet fees

RECENT research has revealed that 78% of pet owners believe there should be greater transparency regarding the cost of veterinary treatments. Alarmingly, over a quarter (28%) said they were not always informed about the costs before agreeing to treatment.

The study, commissioned by John Lewis Pet Insurance and conducted among 2,000 UK pet owners, aimed to understand perceptions of veterinary care costs and the role of pet insurance. It found that just over half (52%) of pet owners said their vet practice clearly displays pricing information. Regional differences were notable, with only 38% of practices in Northern Ireland displaying prices compared to 75% in London.

Lack of clarity impacting treatment decisions

The research highlighted how unclear pricing can affect pet care. Over a third (38%) of respondents

believed they were charged more than initially quoted, leading 23% to discontinue treatment for their pets due to unexpected or increased fees.

ADvICE FROM A vETERINARIAN

Veterinarian Martin Stevens advises pet owners to ask detailed questions about treatment plans to avoid surprises:

• “Ask about potential medicines, overnight stays, and post-treatment needs,” he said.

• “Understanding the full scope of care and associated costs ensures owners feel informed and prepared.”

Tips to manage vet fees

Stevens shared practical advice for pet owners:

• Register with a vet early: Having a vet in place ensures you’re prepared for emergencies.

• Shop around: Compare costs for routine check-ups, X-rays, or ultrasounds across practices.

• Annual health checks: Spotting issues early can reduce long-term costs.

• Understand treatment journeys: Ask about every stage, including recovery, follow-ups, and associated costs.

• Consider pet insurance: This provides financial cover and peace of mind.

Niall Lownie from John Lewis Pet Insurance added:

“What’s clear from our research is that many pet owners are sadly unprepared for veterinary expenses. Pet insurance can provide much-needed support, covering treatments like behavioural care and dietary needs.”

For more details, including the average costs of common veterinary treatments in the UK, visit John Lewis Pet Insurance.

Happier times: Pembroke Octopush Club making good use of the pool (Image: File)

Pool has uncertain future: Pembrokeshire

Major step forward for Tenby housing development

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL says it is pleased to confirm the award of a PreConstruction Service Agreement for the Brynhir housing development in Tenby.

Morgan Construction of Carmarthen has been appointed following the evaluation of a two-stage tender.

Morgan Construction is currently due to begin work on the site in summer 2025.

This will be subject to discharging planning conditions, consideration to ecology periods and minimising disruption during the height of the tourist season.

Eight phases are currently planned,

allowing for homes to be available sooner. It is expected that the development will be completed in 2029.

In total, 125 homes will be constructed by Pembrokeshire County Council at Brynhir.

These homes will range in size and consist of 93 affordable housing (social and intermediate rent), 16 shared ownership, and 16 open market sale.

This development will also include a

range of formal and informal play and recreational areas throughout the site, with direct links into the town.

Anyone who is interested in the properties are advised to complete a housing application form to join the Choice Homes housing register.

However, if you are already on the housing register, you do not need to do anything else at this stage.

To join the housing register, please see: www.choicehomespembrokeshire. org/new-customers/how-to-apply

There will be a local connection requirement applied to this housing development.

The criteria for this will be developed closer to the time, ahead of the first phase completion.

Cllr Michelle Bateman, Cabinet Member for Housing said: “I am delighted that we have reached this stage, and I look forward to seeing the site take shape.

“This is a significant development for Tenby and the surrounding area, providing much needed affordable housing.”

If you have any questions about this, or any other development, please contact the Housing Development Team via devclo@pembrokeshire.gov. uk or 01437 764551.

£335m to support Welsh businesses unveiled by the Welsh Government

A £335 million package to help businesses with their rates bills in 2025-26 was unveiled by the Welsh Government today (Dec 11), including continued support for retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses for the sixth consecutive year.

As the Draft Budget was published this afternoon, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Mark Drakeford, highlighted Welsh Labour’s commitment to economic growth, job creation, and decarbonisation. Key funding allocations include £144 million for all-age apprenticeships and an extra £6.5 million for the Flexible Skills programme, focusing on sectors linked to green growth.

The Draft Budget prioritises record investments in flood prevention and coal tip safety. This includes an additional £25 million for 2025-26 from the UK Government, complementing the £65 million coal tip safety programme running from 2021 to 2025. The publication coincides with the introduction of a new Coal Tip Safety Bill.

Key highlights of the budget include:

• £88 million in capital funding for city and growth deals.

• £23 million to develop employment sites and property to create new jobs.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

• £5.15 million to support Trydan Gwyrdd and local energy plans.

For the first time, Welsh Labour is leveraging collaboration with the UK Government to allocate over £3 billion in capital funding. Every department will see an increase in funding, enabling significant investments in infrastructure and services across Wales.

This marks a shift from the difficult budget decisions of previous years, with an additional £1.5 billion earmarked for public services, aiming to restore growth and resilience.

The funding reflects the First Minister’s priorities, focusing on job creation in sectors addressing climate change, restoring nature, and supporting families.

Specific allocations include:

• £3.7 million to address planning system delays.

• £5 million for Natural Resources Wales to expand land and marine consenting capacity.

• £4.5 million for Green Business

Loans to assist SMEs with energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “Welsh businesses are the heartbeat of our economy, and this is a budget for a brighter future, supporting those businesses to thrive and survive.

“It is also an opportunity to build on our outstanding green and renewable energy sector, underpinning our unashamed support of new renewable energy projects to meet our electricity demands.”

Cabinet Secretary for Finance Mark Drakeford added: “This Draft Budget is for a brighter tomorrow. With two Labour governments working together, we can provide long-denied investment to public services, put Wales back on the path to growth, and start to reverse the damage inflicted over the last 14 years.

“It is a budget of hope and growth for Welsh businesses and the green sector.

The First Minister’s priorities, those issues which matter most to the people of Wales, are reflected in this funding.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Artist’s impression of the forthcoming Brynhir development.

Lions Club Christmas fundraiser returns to support local charities

THE PEMBROKE AND PEMBROKE DOCK LIONS CLUB is once again spreading festive cheer while raising funds for local causes through its annual Christmas fundraising campaign.

For years, the Lions Club delighted Pembrokeshire residents with their iconic sleigh rides. However, as members grow older, the tradition has evolved into static displays at key community locations, making it easier to continue their charitable mission.

This year’s campaign features an expanded schedule, with appearances at Morrisons in Haverfordwest on December 14 and 15, Tesco in Milford Haven on December 13, and Tesco in Pembroke Dock on December 23 and 24. Volunteers will be on-site from 10:00am to 4:00pm, weather permitting, to collect donations and share holiday cheer.

The Lions Club has been a steadfast supporter of the Pembrokeshire community, stepping in to fill the void left by the closure of Lions Clubs in Milford Haven and Haverfordwest. Their fundraising efforts have supported numerous local charities, including Sandy Bear and Adam’s Bucketful of Hope, ensuring these vital services continue to thrive.

Tony Wilson, Secretary of the Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Lions Club, expressed his gratitude for the community’s continued support:

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

“Morrisons, Haverfordwest welcomed us with open arms last year and immediately invited us back. We’re excited to continue this collaboration

and expand our fundraising efforts to Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock.”

The Lions are urging the public to visit their displays, contribute generously, and help make a difference this Christmas. All proceeds will go directly to local charities and initiatives that rely on community support.

For more details about the Lions Club’s work or how to get involved, visit their displays at the locations listed above.

Haverfordwest opticians recognised for sustainability leadership with gold award

SPECSA v ERS

HAvERFORDWEST has achieved a gold award in the Greener Primary Care Wales Framework and Award Scheme, recognising its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing its impact on the planet.

Launched in 2022 by the Primary Care Division of Public Health Wales, the framework supports GP practices, community pharmacies, primary care dental practices and optometry practices to adopt eco-friendly initiatives.

Specsavers Haverfordwest is among only a handful of optometry practices and Specsavers stores in Wales to achieve this award, having first joined the scheme in January 2024.

Over the past year, the practice has implemented a range of sustainability measures, from healthy lifestyle changes to carbon management, all aimed at contributing to the Welsh Government’s target of achieving netzero carbon emissions.

Wayne Jones, retail director at Specsavers Haverfordwest, says: ‘We are delighted to be recognised for our commitment to sustainability. Climate change poses serious challenges to both individual and public health and we have a role to play in mitigating its impact.

‘Participating in the Greener Primary Care Wales Framework and

Award Scheme reflects Specsavers’ dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and ensuring that its operations and services support a healthier future. We look forward to driving this forward at our new store.’

Specsavers Haverfordwest will relocate to a new premises in the Riverside Shopping Centre on 16 December. The new £1.2 million store will have 14 test rooms, including two audiology suites which

will support the growing local demand for advanced eye and hearing care while helping to ease pressure on the NHS.

The store will be open seven days a week. To find out more information about Specsavers in Haverfordwest, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit www.specsavers. co.uk/stores/haverfordwest.

Additionally, to make eye health accessible to all, the store offers a Home Visits service for those unable to leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness.

More than one in four in Wales face a struggle to afford Christmas

NEW polling by StepChange Debt

Charity reveals a worrying trend this festive season: more than one in four people (26%) in Wales are finding it difficult to afford Christmas. The survey also shows that over one in twenty (6%) plan to turn to credit to cover holiday expenses.

The study, conducted by YouGov, highlights broader national issues across Great Britain:

• Over a third (35%) of households with children are struggling to meet Christmas costs.

• One in twelve people (8%)—around 4 million—intend to rely on credit to fund festive spending.

• Of those using credit, nearly four in ten (38%) will choose Buy Now, Pay Later services, a rise from 36% last year.

StepChange anticipates a surge in people seeking help with debt in January, urging anyone facing financial challenges to seek advice early.

Financial strain grows

Richard Lane, Chief Client Officer at StepChange, said: “The Christmas period is often especially difficult for those already facing financial hardship. The pressure to create a perfect holiday often leads to overspending, and turning to credit can cause further strain as the new year begins.

“With rising energy bills and high housing costs squeezing budgets, many households have little left for festive spending.

“If you’re considering borrowing through credit cards, Buy Now, Pay Later, or other forms of lending, it’s vital to evaluate whether repayments will be manageable. Loved ones wouldn’t want you to jeopardize your financial health out of generosity. Support is available, and it’s never too early to seek help if you’re concerned about debt.”

Managing festive finances

StepChange has shared three practical tips for staying on top of holiday finances:

Set a budget

Assess your disposable income and

MIKE EDWARDS

THE WIND! The awful wind!

It howled. It shrieked in the treetops and moaned in the wires like an old blues singer. Fences were flattened. Much-loved potted plants toppled and were dashed to pieces. A small child’s see-saw flew up our drive like a winged horse and thumped into our bin store. Next door’s backyard incinerator went dancing up his garden, shedding ash while its lid whizzed away on hidden wings and decapitated a garden gnome.

And a pane of glass blew out of one of our garden shed’s windows.

Ye gods!

The horror.

Ahem.

There was a storm. It was a bad storm. There was a lot of wind. The wind was very powerful.

Walking outside in the wind in the intermittent showers was like being sandpapered over those parts of the body that remained exposed to the elements.

Mitzi the Mutt, who is much closer to the ground than me, was unconcerned. However, her ears were flattened to her canine skull, and her usually waggy tail resembled nothing so much as a helicopter’s rotor blades as it whirred behind her in a vain attempt to fly her like a kite.

As I walked the dog, I reflected on my life, expecting it to end when I was pinned underneath a tree or toppled pylon. It was my fault. My beloved usually walks the hound. However, I was seized by a gallant impulse. Fully expecting her to decline my offer, I volunteered to take Mitzi for her constitutional sniff-fest and wee. I was confident my wife would decline my offer. She always tells me how much she looks forward to walking her favourite furry pest.

To my astonishment, my darling one thanked me and told me where I could find the lead. My heart sank. I pulled on my thick coat and gloves, latched the lead onto Mitzi’s collar and flung open our front door.

Or, rather, I gently placed my hand on the door handle and pushed down, only to have the door fly open and almost bop me on the head.

determine what you can realistically afford to spend. Planning ahead can prevent unnecessary debt.

Shop smart

Focus on items you genuinely need and watch for deals. A clear shopping list can help avoid impulse purchases. Be cautious with credit

High-cost borrowing, such as shortterm loans or Buy Now, Pay Later schemes, can lead to financial stress if repayments become unmanageable. Consider whether the short-term gain is worth the long-term impact.

As I struggled into the tempest, I heard something hum past me in the twilight. I looked behind me. The lid of a neighbour’s council garden bin had missed me by inches.

We reached the corner of the road, where we would usually turn left and stroll down a leafy lane.

“SOD THAT!” I thought aloud. The bosky path was alive with whipping branches that threatened to turn a pedestrian into mince. Instead, we turned right and headed out towards the eerily quiet main road. The wind propelled Mitzi and me forward at high speed.

The flaw in my plan only became apparent when we turned to head home. A brisk walk turned into a trudge into the teeth of Storm Darragh, leaving me feeling battered and bruised by loose chippings and high-velocity crisp packets from the pavement. Mitzi didn’t care. We got home. I unleashed the hound. Yes. Mitzi “was mummy’s little hero”. Meanwhile, I retreated unheroically to the bathroom and unpebbledashed my face.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Drug misuse in Wales highlighted in new data from ONS

NEW data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlights the evolving patterns of drug misuse across England and Wales. While the overall drug use rate has stabilised, there are significant regional disparities, with Welsh communities facing unique challenges in tackling substance misuse.

The ONS survey reveals that drug use in Wales aligns closely with the overall trends in England and Wales. Approximately 8.8% of adults aged 16 to 59 reported using illicit drugs in the past year. Cannabis remains the most commonly used drug, but its usage has declined to levels last seen a decade ago. However, some experts warn that Wales faces specific risks due to socioeconomic factors prevalent in certain areas.

Drug-related deaths have reached record levels across England and Wales, with 5,448 fatalities recorded in 2023. In Wales, communities such as Swansea, Cardiff, and the Valleys have reported higher-than-average rates of drug poisoning deaths, reflecting challenges linked to deprivation, mental health issues, and access to treatment services.

The North Wales region, in particular, has seen a worrying increase in deaths involving synthetic opioids, echoing

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

a trend observed nationwide. These substances, often more potent and dangerous than traditional opioids, have fueled a rise in fatal overdoses.

REGIONAL DISPARITIES IN DRUG MISUSE

The survey highlights significant

regional differences, with Wales showing a slightly higher prevalence of drug misuse in younger age groups. Among 16 to 24-year-olds, 18% reported using drugs in the past year—higher than the England and Wales average of 16.5%. Experts attribute this to factors such as the availability of substances, cultural influences, and economic conditions affecting younger people.

Communities in Wales are mobilising to address these issues. Harm reduction initiatives, such as needle exchange programs and overdose prevention sites, have expanded in urban centers like Cardiff and Swansea. In rural areas, such as Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, efforts focus on improving access to addiction services and raising awareness about the risks of drug misuse.

In Newport, a pilot program offering free naloxone kits—an antidote to opioid overdoses—has been credited with saving lives. Local charities, including Welsh homelessness organisations, have also played a key role in supporting individuals at risk.

GOvERNMENT AND POLICE EFFORTS IN WALES

The Welsh Government has prioritised tackling drug misuse through its substance misuse delivery plan. This includes a £50 million investment in treatment services over the next five

years and a focus on harm reduction strategies. Welsh police forces, including Dyfed-Powys Police, have also stepped up operations to disrupt drug supply chains, seizing record quantities of Class A drugs over the past year.

PUBLIC HEALTH CAMPAIGNS TARGET WELSH YOUTH

Recognising the higher rates of drug use among young people, Public Health Wales has launched campaigns aimed at educating young adults about the risks of drug misuse. Initiatives like the “Know the Score” campaign are using social media and community outreach to engage with at-risk groups.

THE HERALD’S PERSPECTIvE

The findings underscore the importance of regional solutions tailored to Wales’ unique challenges. While progress is being made through community initiatives and government funding, the persistent disparities in drug misuse and related deaths highlight the need for sustained investment and innovation in public health.

For Welsh readers, these statistics are a sobering reminder of the impact of drug misuse in our towns and cities. The Herald will continue to shed light on this issue, amplifying the voices of those working to create safer, healthier communities across the nation.

Antisocial behaviour action a ‘waste of money’

A PUBLIC protection order, introduced in the centre of Haverfordwest to tackle antisocial behaviour more than two years ago has been a “waste of taxpayers’ money,” with no prosecutions or penalties issued, councillors will hear.

Prior to its backing in mid 2022, a plan to introduce a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in Haverfordwest town centre had been under discussion for some time, with a public consultation on the matter, as well as previous debates by Pembrokeshire County Council.

The proposals were brought by the town’s five county councillors, initially prompted by anti-social behaviour and drinking issues at the skate park and were developed in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police.

Claims had previously been made that “gangs of feral children are roaming around town”, with members of the public subject to verbal and physical abuse in Haverfordwest, and a “criminal element” dealing drugs in the town.

The PSPO gives police and PCSOs additional powers for three years to issue a fixed penalty notice of £100 if someone fails to comply with a request to cease consumption of intoxicating substances in a designated area.

At the time, Cllr Jacob Williams said on “civil liberties grounds” he was shocked to see what was being proposed.

“I think this is way over the top and not a proportionate response,” he said.

The PSPO area includes the Withybush retail area, the river alongside Morrisons, Barn Street, Horsefair roundabout, Rifleman Field, skatepark, Fortunes Frolic and out to

the train station.

After a lengthy debate the introduction of a PSPO was approved 30 votes for and 21 against, with four abstentions.

The December 12 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council will receive a submitted question by Independent Group leader Cllr Huw Murphy on the subject.

“At full council on July 14, 2022 a decision was made to implement a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) within certain areas of Haverfordwest.

“A Partnership Panel held on May 23, 2024, received confirmation that since this PSPO was implemented there have been no prosecutions or fixed penalties issued. There was a cost implication in implementing this PSPO for PCC, money that we can ill afford to spend when ample legislation exists for dealing with antisocial behaviour.

“Therefore, can it be agreed that in future such applications are given greater scrutiny to avoid further waste of taxpayers’ money and what actually reduces antisocial behaviour is increased pro-active policing not more legislation?”

Cllr Murphy’s question will be heard at the December 12 meeting.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

‘Last chance’ warning for Pembrokeshire farm barn attraction

A PEMBROKESHIRE farm barn attraction, which gained a 3,500-strong petition of support after previously being refused by planning officers, is being given a “last chance saloon” to justify staying open ahead of a site visit.

Late last year, Stuart Williams of Home Farm, Leweston, near Camrose, was refused retrospective permission by planning officers to retain the Willhome Farm Barn farm park – and ancillary buildings – built in June 2022.

The site – whose facilities were used by the council’s own educational providers and parents of children with learning difficulties – is home to rabbits, llamas, donkeys, poultry, owls, goats, ponies and pigs, along with a café building, public conveniences, a children’s play area, and parking.

The attraction was set up as a form of diversification after the farm lost its entire cattle herd through bovine tuberculosis; developing over time to having more than 150 children and students visiting a week.

It was previously refused by officers due to highway safety concerns and fears it would generate additional foul water flows which are likely to result in an increase in phosphate levels in the Cleddau River.

Since the refusal by planners, a change.org petition, Grant Planning

Permission for Willhome Farm Barn in Pembrokeshire, was set up by Hookbased Jessica Austin, which has attracted more than 3,500 signatures to date.

Jessica’s petitionsaid: “This decision not only affects this resilient family but also impacts schools attended with over 6,000 pupils, by adults from local wellbeing centres and families with children who have autism or learning difficulties like mine.”

Earlier this year, the applicant submitted a fresh call, which was again due to be decided by planning officers.

At the request of local county councillor, and former council leader, Cllr Jamie Adams, a special meeting was held in July backing a decision for it to be made by councillors rather than officers.

The application was due to be heard at the October meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, with a recommendation of refusal, reasons including those given for the previous application, the application returning to the December meeting to allow the applicant’s agent more time to address planning issues.

It was again recommended for refusal at the December meeting.

Speaking at the December meeting, agent Carys Thomas felt highways concerns could be dealt with through passing bays and temporary signage, an informal agreement having been entered into with a local landowner.

Local member Cllr Jamie Adams said the area had seen a decline in agricultural stock vehicle movements, following a decline in cattle numbers, suggesting concerns about increased traffic generated by the attraction was something of “a misnomer”.

He added: “Without supporting the changing needs of farms in Pembrokeshire we will lose the economic drivers of our communities, communities like mine in Camrose, it’s farms that support many of the other rural business and many of the services in the communities.”

One of the sticking points for officers was the length of time of the “long and arduous process” of the various applications and their reasons for refusal, dating back some 18 months, with what they saw as insufficient information to address their concerns, members heard.

Cllr John T Davies moved a site visit before any decision, allowing the applicants a final chance to address the planning issues, describing his proposal as “a final opportunity, a last-chance saloon,” adding: “If it’s not addressed by then I will be very clear in my vote of refusal; one final opportunity, one final throw of the dice.”

Members, by eight votes to four, backed a site visit ahead of a final decision, the application expected to return to the February meeting.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Welsh Government rejects Council’s tourism tax plea

THE WELSH GOvERNMENT

has rejected a request from Pembrokeshire County Council to reconsider its 182-night rule on holiday letting.

In a letter to the local authority from Wales’s Finance Secretary, Mark Drakeford, the Welsh Government said it would not reconsider its approach until it had two years’ data on its effects.

The Labour government introduced the 182-night rule to target property owners who casually rent properties and pay neither the increased Council Tax premium on second homes nor Small Business Rates. By encouraging owners to release properties onto the for-sale market, the government wants to increase the availability of homes in Wales’s holiday hotspots. It’s a blunt tool, and there have been predictable but unforeseen consequences (at least by the Welsh Government). The rule’s introduction has reduced the number of properties upon which owners pay either the enhanced rate of Council Tax for second homes or pay business rates.

A LETTER TO MARK

On October 17, Pembrokeshire’s county councillors instructed the Council leader to write to the Welsh Government asking for a reduction in the 182-night rule.

Although councillors agreed an increase in the previous threshold was welcome, many felt the letting target was too high for many viable businesses.

The letter to the Welsh Government said: “Whilst 182 days is certainly achievable in some of our main tourist towns such as Tenby, Saundersfoot, and Newport, it was very difficult to achieve this in other parts of the county, particularly away from the sea.”

The letter said the rule is having a detrimental effect on Pembrokeshire’s vital tourism industry.

Council Leader Jon Harvey’s letter also said: “We do not wish to implement any local policy decisions that would conflict with Welsh Government, and, as such, I am formally writing to you to ask the Welsh Government to consider reducing the 182 days let threshold for self-catering properties to qualify for Non-Domestic Rates.”

DRAKEFORD SAYS “NO”

In a reply from Mark Drakeford, which was circulated to all Council

members, the Welsh Government refused to reconsider its position ahead of the next tourism season.

Mr Drakeford said: “The primary aims of our changes to local taxes are to ensure property owners are making a fair contribution and to maximise the use of property to the benefit of local communities. This could include benefits arising from increased occupancy for short-term letting or the release of some properties for sale or rent as permanent homes for local people.

“As a consequence of the changes, self-catering properties are classed as non-domestic only if they are being used for business purposes for the majority of the year. This provides a clearer demonstration that the properties concerned are being let regularly and are making a substantial contribution to the local economy.”

Mr Drakeford claimed that information from businesses engaged in holiday letting showed the Welsh Government’s approach was having the effects Cardiff Bay desired. That seems contrary to data provided by the Wales Tourism Alliance and the figures produced for Pembrokeshire County Council’s budget.

Confirming the Welsh Government has no plans to reconsider its position, Mark Drakeford said: “We understand that there may be a period of adjustment, as some property owners

consider their options and determine how to respond. It will be important to allow time for the changes to embed before drawing any firm conclusions.

“The initial impact on the number of self-catering properties classified as non-domestic will be known after April 2025, when two years will have elapsed since the changes took effect. This is when the Valuation Office Agency is expected to have completed a full round of routine compliance checks.”

Claiming that reconsidering the position would cause “uncertainty” in the private letting sector, Mr Drakeford wrote: “There are no plans to undertake a formal review in the short-term, nor in isolation from the broader package of measures within our three-pronged approach to tackling the impact that large numbers of second homes and holiday lets can have on communities and the Welsh language.”

That’s not only a “no”, it’s a “no” with knobs on.

YOU ALREADY HAvE ALL THE TOOLS YOU NEED

Mark Drakeford doubled down on his “no” by claiming Pembrokeshire County Council already had all the tools it needed to address the problems caused by the tourism tax.

He said: “We have extended the exceptions to council tax premiums to include properties with a planning condition which specifies that the

property may only be used as a holiday let or prevents its permanent occupation as a person’s sole or main residence. We have also provided guidance for local authorities on the use of discretion to tailor their arrangements to reflect local circumstances.”

Quite how designating a property for a holiday let allows its release onto the local housing market where homes for local families are in short supply is unaddressed.

The Finance Secretary continues: “Where a self-catering property does not meet the letting criteria and is not subject to a planning condition, the Welsh Government has provided local authorities with as much discretion as possible to consider the approach to take for the benefit of your communities.

“We consider our local taxation regime will help local authorities to incentivise the right balance between capacity within the self-catering tourism sector, and [its[ economic benefits and supporting viable communities of local residents to live and work in these areas.”

If, as Mark Drakeford claims, Pembrokeshire County Council has all the powers and options it needs to address the issue, there will, no doubt, be a flood of information coming from the Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, Joshua Beynon, to show members precisely where the rabbit that should be in the hat is hidden.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Uncertainty over future of Manorbier school after fire

A CALL for an update on a south Pembrokeshire school and the timeline for its rebuild more than two years after it was devastated by fire is to be heard later this week.

Manorbier Church in Wales VC School and its adjoining schoolhouse was severely damaged by a fire on October 11, 2022, which broke out in the school roof space.

Pupils and staff were successfully evacuated with no injuries, and a ‘school from school’ was set up in Jameston Village Hall, after a brief period of sanctuary at the nearby Buttyland caravan site.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s insurers have previously said the fire was accidentally started while ‘hot works’ were being carried out by contractors to renew an adjacent flat roof, but, as has previously been stressed, no liability has been accepted to date.

Councillors have previously heard the majority of costs were likely to be met from the council’s insurers, with the caveat of the unknown issue of liability and its effect on a £200,000 insurance excess.

They have also been told that, if liability was found or accepted, the council would “pursue for the full maximum claim of the costs associated with the fire”.

In a question submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council ahead of its full council meeting of December 12, local councillor Cllr Phil Kidney asks: “Manorbier School was subject to a serious fire in October 2022, so serious that the school premises has not been used since.

“At Schools O&S on February 6, 2023, Manorbier school was discussed and Councillor Stoddart queried the possibility of the contractor insurance covering the cost of the rebuild, to which the cabinet member advised, legal discussions were ongoing.

“At full council on October 12, 2023, Councillor Aled Thomas asked: ‘had the Authority been successful in recouping any of the £200,000 insurance excess that PCC had to bear.’

“At the same meeting I asked a question requesting an update on the rebuild of Manorbier School and was informed by the Cabinet Member that it would be included as part of a business case for further consideration by Cabinet.

“Over two years have now lapsed, since the fire and considerable disruption it has caused to the school and community, therefore could full council be provided with a full update with regards to the insurance claim in respect of the school fire and some timelines for the rebuild?”

Cllr Kidney’s question will be heard at the December 12 meeting.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Choir celebrates Christmas at annual fundraising concert

A NARBERTH-BASED ladies’ choir is gearing up to headline a festive evening of music and cheer at the Regency Hall, Saundersfoot, on Friday, December 20.

Serendipity Ladies’ Choir, led by musical director Juliet Rossiter, will be joined by baritone Martyn Davies, young singers from Saundersfoot Primary School, and trombonist Ianto Evans for the seasonal celebration.

Founded eight years ago, the choir has grown to include 50 members who meet weekly for rehearsals in Narberth. Juliet, who has been with the choir for seven of its eight years, praised the group’s resilience, recalling the one Christmas concert she missed due to undergoing a kidney transplant.

“The choir managed brilliantly without me, of course,” said Juliet. “This year, we’ll be performing classic favourites like O Holy Night as well as some new pieces that are sure to amaze the audience.”

Serendipity’s Christmas Concert takes place at 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

Tickets are £12 and will be available at the door.

Councillor visits fire station for electric blanket safety event

CASTLE WARD County

Councillor Thomas Tudor visited Haverfordwest Fire Station on Thursday (Dec 4) to witness a vital safety initiative in action. The fire service hosted a free electric blanket testing event for residents, providing advice on fire protection and prevention.

The initiative aimed to highlight potential fire hazards posed by faulty electric blankets, helping ensure residents stay safe during the colder months. Fire officers also educated

attendees on other safety measures, including the importance of carbon monoxide detectors to guard against the dangers of the “silent killer.”

Councillor Tudor described the event as an eye-opening experience, praising the fire service’s commitment to promoting safety and raising awareness within the community.

For those who missed the event, fire safety tips and advice on carbon monoxide monitoring are available on the fire service’s website and through local outreach programs.

Serendipity Ladies’ Choir from Narberth, pictured with musical director Juliet Rossiter (Pic: Supplied).

James – Music to your ears

PEMBROKESHIRE composer, writer and director, James Williams, has worked on every Torch Theatre festive show for the past 25 years. His first show at the Torch in Milford Haven was Christmas Cat and the Pudding Pirates back in 1998 and since then James has been lucky enough to work with several artistic directors and actors along the way.

This Christmas, James, an Associate Director of the Torch, has composed music for the Torch Theatre’s festive pantomime of Jack and the Beanstalk as well as Little Red Riding Hood for the Sherman Theatre, written A Christmas Wish for Simply Theatre, Geneva and written and directed Snow White and the Seven Elves for Bluestone Wales.

“Composing for the Torch Theatre this year has been an absolute joy, with a lot of silliness. The script is just fantastic, and the songs are catchy, full of earworms that will stick in your head. We have some incredible singers, and the music is just banging, challenging, popping and a lot of fun with audience participation where people will feel part of the action. The ‘five a day song’ is definitely one you’ll remember,” chuckled James.

But having composed for so many festive pantos here in Pembrokeshire, from where does James get his inspiration?

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

“It all starts with the script, and I make sure that the songs are relevant to the actions on stage. I try to imagine what it would be like to be in that world and if I can get the character clear in my head, it all comes easily. It’s the words that are harder I find and it can be quite challenging,” explained James who moved to the Carew area from Cardiff just before lockdown.

Over the years, James has worked for several other companies including NTW, WNO, Hijinx, Triongl, Give It A Name and Theatre Royal Plymouth. He’s the composer of the musical The Jolly Folly of Polly the Scottish Trolley Dolly and The Sheep Chronicles in collaboration with playwright Lesley Ross. He is director of the award-winning circus show Flown for Pirates of the Carabina and has directed the MAMT Showcase for RWCMD since the course inception in 2011.

With only five more years of enjoyment before James reaches a huge milestone of composing for the Christmas shows here at the Torch Theatre, Jack and the Beanstalk remains one of his favourites.

Jack and the Beanstalk can be seen at the Torch Theatre from Fri 13 – Sun 29 Dec 2024 with matinee and evening performances. Ticket prices: £23.50 | £19.50 Cons | £75.00 Family. Relaxed Environment Performance on Saturday 14 December at 2pm. BSL Performance – Tuesday 17 December at 6pm.

To book your tickets or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit

Choir brings Christmas cheer to Pembroke Castle

COLOURFUL choristers filled Pembroke Castle with festive spirit during its Christmas Fayre on Saturday, November 30.

Dressed in an array of Christmas jumpers, ties, and Santa hats, the Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir delighted visitors with a programme of 12 songs, complemented by leading several beloved carols.

Musical Director Juliet Rossiter conducted the choir, ensuring their performance ran smoothly. Accompanying them for the second time was the Rev William Lambert, the choir’s new accompanist who has quickly become a valued addition.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, two members of Cor Meibion De Cymru joined the choir on stage for a rousing rendition of American Trilogy, marking a memorable conclusion to their set.

As 2024 draws to a close, the choir plans to bring joy to three local residential homes before taking a wellearned break. Practices will resume in January, and new members are warmly encouraged to join.

Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays at 7:00pm at St Teilo’s Church Hall, Pembroke Dock. Interested singers can contact Choir Secretary Dave Powell on 07572 080401. Pembroke and

District Male Voice Choir on stage at Pembroke Castle’s Christmas Fayre. (Picture: P&DMVC)

A Festive Return with Chilling Charm at Christmas!

This Christmas, Wallace and Gromit return after a 16year hiatus with Vengeance Most Fowl, a delightful yet dark instalment in the beloved series. Directed by Nick Park, the film debuts on BBC One and iPlayer on Christmas Day, following a Halloween premiere at the American Film Institute Festival, possibly setting up an Oscar bid.

The plot reintroduces Feathers McGraw, the chilling penguin villain from The Wrong Trousers. Imprisoned after his jewel heist, Feathers now plots revenge from his zoo cell, commandeering Wallace’s latest gadget, Norbot—a

robot gnome designed for household tasks.

Predictably, chaos ensues, testing Wallace’s faith in technology and Gromit’s enduring loyalty.

Though the film’s start feels slow, it quickly regains its stride with classic elements: Wallace’s tech blunders, misunderstandings that leave man and dog falsely accused, and a madcap race to uncover the true culprit. Fans will relish the attention to detail, from Wallace’s bafflement at his smart teapot to Norbot’s eerie personality settings. Witty gags, sharp satire on police incompetence, and

even a memorable nun joke add to the fun.

While the film’s themes of tech scepticism feel slightly dated compared to modern animations like WALL-E, the vintage charm of West Wallaby Street still enchants. However, Feathers McGraw steals the show, his menacing silence outshining Wallace’s verbose antics. As Aardman’s history shows, their finest moments often come with few words—just ask Shaun the Sheep.

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl airs in the UK this Christmas and streams globally on Netflix from 3 January.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG RETURNS in CINEMAS

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” delivers an exhilarating continuation of the Sonic cinematic franchise, bringing the beloved video game characters to life in a fresh and engaging manner. Directed by Jeff Fowler, the film reunites Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails as they face a new formidable adversary, Shadow the Hedgehog, voiced by a menacing Idris Elba. The plot weaves together elements from the video game series, especially drawing from “Sonic Adventure 2” and “Shadow the Hedgehog,” blending thrilling action with humor and heartfelt moments

The film’s pacing is brisk, keeping audiences entertained with its

high-energy action sequences, vivid visual effects, and characterdriven storytelling. The dynamic between Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails remains a highlight, as their interactions provide both comic relief and emotional depth, particularly as they grapple with their identities and purpose

Jim Carrey’s reprise of Dr. Robotnik adds another layer of joy, offering some of the film’s best comedic moments

However, while “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” excels in its presentation and action, some critics feel the plot struggles to match the complexity of its predecessors. The introduction of Shadow as a central character adds

depth to the narrative but also makes it somewhat convoluted, particularly for newcomers unfamiliar with the games

Despite this, the film successfully maintains its family-friendly vibe, offering a blend of nostalgia and fresh elements that cater to both new viewers and long-time fans of the Sonic franchise

Overall, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is a fun and visually impressive entry in the series, balancing action, humor, and heart, and setting up intriguing possibilities for future installments. If you’re a fan of the Sonic games or just looking for a lively, entertaining movie, this one delivers on all fronts.

wITH EDDIE THE gAME gURU

RIGHT, comrades! Strap yourselves in, because we’re diving into Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and it’s a tale of squandered potential, frenetic multiplayer brilliance, and a campaign that’s like an overcooked stew of spy clichés, bad stealth mechanics, and occasional flashes of genius.

It’s the gaming equivalent of inviting The Prodigy to DJ your party, only for them to play muzak while the host rambles about geopolitical skullduggery.

The Campaign: A Netflix-Grade Spy Thriller

First up, the campaign. Now, Call of Duty used to be about the everyman soldier, the unsung hero dragged through the mud and blood of historical moments that defined generations. But here, the soul’s been swapped out for Jason Bourne on discount. What happened to the faceless, unknown warriors? They’ve been traded for shiny, Netflixready characters sprinting through European alleyways, chasing poloshirted baddies like it’s a corporate espionage edition of Lupin.

Oh, it’s trying to say something, with shadowy government dealings, rogue PMCs, and Eastern Bloc mercs under the banner of “Pantheon.” It’s all there to paint the illusion of depth. But mate, it’s like staring at a puddle pretending to be the Mariana Trench.

The Multiverse of Missed Opportunities

Raiding Saddam’s palace for WMDs? Oh, that could’ve been the stupidly fun, politically tone-deaf spectacle we secretly hoped for! And sure, there’s one glorious “hell yeah!”

moment of missile-slinging chaos. But that’s buried under layers of dreary mini-open-world missions that desperately want to be Metal Gear Solid V but instead feel like Metal Gear: Bargain Bin Edition.

And history? History is treated like a decorative vase shoved in the back corner of the room—technically present, but irrelevant. The Gulf War is a glorified backdrop, a smudge on the canvas of a story dominated by rogues, mobsters, and generic militaristic power plays. No Mekong Delta singalongs to “Sympathy for the Devil,” no burning Reichstags, no gut-punch moments of historical gravitas. Just... fluff. Forgettable fluff.

Multiplayer: Sweet, Sweet Redemption

And here’s where the grumbling stops. Because, folks, the multiplayer is bloody brilliant. Treyarch went full John Woo, gave us omnimovement mechanics, and essentially said, “Do you want to feel like you’re starring in Hard Boiled?” Yes. Yes, we do.

The sprint-slide-dive-dump mechanics are buttery smooth, chaining together chaos and grace in equal measure. You’re sliding across Babylon’s chaotic meat grinder maps or diving through Derelict’s tight corridors, feeling like Max Payne on a caffeine binge. It’s twitchy, weighty, visceral, and honestly, one of the most empowering experiences I’ve had in CoD.

Kill Order, the VIP mode’s cooler, smarter cousin, is a revelation. A dynamic game of cat-and-mouse with heavily armed targets that always know where you’re coming from? It’s exhilarating, frustrating, and everything multiplayer should be.

HOROSCOPES

And the guns. Oh, the guns. Each one feels like it’s been calibrated for maximum joy. From the punchy AK-47 to the oddball delights of the Tanto .22 and Tsarkov 762, it’s a smorgasbord of auditory bliss and tactile feedback. The ‘90s setting might be a bit of a stretch, but the arsenal? Chef’s kiss.

Zombies: A Garish, Clown-Skinned Rave

Then there’s Zombies mode— bigger, louder, and more colorful than a glowstick rave. It’s a garish spectacle of neon-drenched monstrosities and gaudy skins that make your eyeballs weep. Functionally, it’s the best it’s ever been, but aesthetically, it’s a bloody circus. Who signed off on “Zombie Woods” as a pre-order bonus? It’s like your mate showed up to a black-tie event wearing Crocs and a sombrero—confident, but why?

Closing Thoughts: Style Over Substance

At its best, Black Ops 6 is a multiplayer adrenaline rush that hits harder than your first warehouse rave in the ‘90s. At its worst, it’s a campaign slog weighed down by bad stealth, bad writing, and missed opportunities. There’s magic here, buried under the detritus of uninspired decisions, but you’ve got to wade through a lot of slurry to find it. So yeah, mate, it’s a good year for Call of Duty. Not a great year. Not a historic year. Just good. A game of fleeting highs, eye-rolling lows, and one hell of a multiplayer mode that makes you forget the rest—at least until you’re back in the campaign’s tedium, wondering where it all went wrong.

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an

Lots of

goes into

though it doesn’t look like much in the early and middle stages. Now, however, the concept is really taking shape. Instead of being hypercritical of what you’ve done so far, keep going. If necessary, you can make alterations when it’s completed.

LIBRA

If you’re feeling down in the dumps today, you just need to get out of bed and make something happen regardless of your feelings. Events in the past are over and can’t be changed. Everyone has to live with the consequences of their actions, and that can be difficult. But don’t give in to any tendency to endow your regrets with more significance than they deserve. Melancholy people are only appealing in works of fiction.

SCORPIO

Others will be eager to fall into step behind you today, so make sure you have some idea of where you’re going. Fixing your sights on a destination shouldn’t be a problem, though. Your confidence is high, your outlook is positive, and you can explain anything to anyone. Put those communications skills to good use and keep the team fully informed. Their morale will soar.

SAGITTARIUS

You really want to explore your creative potential, and you feel that you need a professional’s direction. So today’s overriding concern is probably how to make that happen financially. Sure, such lessons could take a big bite out of your budget, but look at the big picture and establish some priorities. Are you willing to forego a few dinners out to move in this new direction?

CAPRICORN

Getting up in front of a crowd is easy for you today, especially since you are showered with so many good wishes before you begin. You could be making an important business presentation, speaking to a classroom of students, or making a heartfelt toast at a celebration. Words come easily, backed by your sincerity and positive feelings. Everyone who hears you is touched in some way.

AQUARIUS

Have you been having trouble sleeping? Exhaustion is your constant companion today. Staring wide-eyed at the clock in the middle of

Badger: A Journey to the Far Side of Stupid

IT WAS STORMY LAST WEEKEND

Badger knows that you know, readers. You were there. Slates flew. Fences were flattened. Auntie Maureen had a nasty surprise when her pussy blew away.

We in the woodland community did our best to shelter from the storm, but there were casualties.

Badger was glad to be subterranean while all the clangs and bangs went on up on the surface. Some of his woodland chums weren’t so lucky. Uncle Bert was rendered homeless after the tree he lived under was blown over. Imagine it, readers, there you are, mid-bowel movement, when, with a mighty crack, you find yourselves staring at the heavens where once there was a roof.

Badger never knew Pembrokeshire had a flying squirrel population. It did last weekend. Poor Friend Nutkin flew high and handsome. He would still be flying now if an inconsiderate barn hadn’t got in his way. Poor Nutkin! We shall miss him. Badger is even more startled by what happened to Roni the Rook, who, at the height of the storm, laid the same egg three times. And it wasn’t even her egg to start.

Now, readers, after shared trauma, it’s important to keep a sense of humour. One of Badger’s furry friends tipped him off to take a look at BBC Wales News’s Facebook feed about the storm. Badger scratched his head, wondering why that would cheer him up.

It was comedy gold!

The wind obviously blew away what marbles some of the nutters on the bus had left. Their already loosened screws were scattered to the four corners of the globe. There is a famous American novel called “The Confederacy of Dunces”. It was not hard to think of a Welsh version that would be called “Halfwit City”.

Let’s be clear: weather is what happens when complex systems of air currents, temperature, moisture, and physical geography interact in complicated ways. Warm air is

inherently more turbulent than cool air. The weather is becoming more turbulent and, consequently, more violent more frequently.

That is a fact.

However, what was on BBC Wales’s Facebook feed was not only fiction but a fund of material so deranged and so unintentionally funny that a good stand-up comedian would get two tours’ worth of laughs from it.

Let’s start gently. Firstly, to reduce any embarrassment for a post’s author, Badger has put their name in inverted commas in case someone is pretending to be a moron using their name. Secondly, you can find the comments yourself to verify someone made them here.

According to someone who called themselves “Maria Polisca”, Storm Darragh was a conspiracy.

“How to stop everyone going to Christmas fetes and panic buy? Oh yes put out a red warning. Seriously this country needs a wake up call.”

Yes. The observable threat caused by high winds and, in some places, torrential rain that threatened

lives and property was a cunning plot to cancel jumble sales. Oh, really?

But there’s more, readers. So much more.

Scientific expert “Richard Sharpe” (by name, not nature) opined: “Wales has a weather modification institution there.

Geoengineering is at its best. We will see huge aid wind now to turn those useless Wind turbines that are popping up all over the country, thanks to Edd Sillyband and his elite friends, who try desperately to convince us that Climate change is real while actually producing the bad weather themselves through geoengineering.”

Badger suspects Mr Sharpe, should that be a real name, is a frequent purchaser of tin foil.

And “Carole Curtis” agreed with Professor Sharpe: “Governments should stop the Chem trails manipulating the weather.”

A pseudonymous responder, “Sparks Vinny”, said, “Man-made weather. HAARP... geoengineering and cloud seeding.”

Badger does not doubt that each of the above believes that they are not only well-informed but also ahead of the scientific curve. They are, nonetheless, delusional. Whatever they’ve put in their pipes and smoked is doing them no good at all.

The important thing about conspiracy theories is that the more you try to uncover a conspiracy, the more likely you are to find one. It’s the nature of the interaction between the observer and the observed.

The thought pattern runs something like this:

• I don’t like (or understand) this explanation.

• There must be another explanation

• The other explanation is being hidden by people who benefit from the first explanation.

• Here is another explanation (that I “understand”).

• Therefore, this is the truth.

When it comes to rib-tickling hilarity, the determined truth-finder offers more than most to a casual and sceptical observer.

If you accept the contentions put forward by the poor souls Badger has listed above, and - Badger will be fair - there may be credulous oafs who do, you believe that a nationstate, one among 230-odd nationstates, where the train service is a joke, the rivers are polluted, and the government has the firm grip on events of a new curate in an innercity parish, can control the weather.

Either that or the government is part of a vast global conspiracy to control the weather, but only to inconvenience someone who wants to go to a “Christmas fete”.

Jesus wept.

But there’s an even better side to conspiratorial thinking.

What if it’s not the government?

What if it’s Amazon? Or Ebay? Or Argos?

Well, readers, according to Carol Grace, “Big companies will MAKE A FORTUNE FROM PEOPLE SHOPPING ONLINE.

“Hmmm, sounds like a plan, alright.”

And the use of block capitals makes the argument even more persuasive.

Thankfully, there are always the consolations of faith.

“Justin Thomas” spelled out the necessity of belief.

“Some of them sleep so that even an alert on their phone will not wake them up. We are at the End of the Age of Bible Prophecy.

“U have 56 weeks exactly until the extinction of the throne of God, Nibiru, hits the earth.

“So what is it? Repentance and dwelling with God of nuke world war booked for June 2026”

Never mind the weather manipulation; ignore the plotting of online retailers; the end of times is nigh, readers.

Yea, readers! For is it not written in the Book of Badger that if you go fishing for idiots, you’ll haul in a full net every time?

SYRIA’S WINDS OF CHANGE

CAWWW! Fellow feathered flappers and human readers, this seagull has soared across many stories, but none as stormy as the skies over Syria this week. For once, when humans squawk about something being “historic,” they’ve got it right. The crumbling of Bashar al-Assad’s iron perch after more than 50 years of family rule and 13 years of civil war marks a monumental moment. Syrians are flapping their wings in celebration, and who can blame them? After decades of dictatorship, they’ve earned a chance to chirp freely.

But hold your squawks of joy –this gull has seen enough to know that triumph can turn to trouble faster than you can shout “achafi!” Just ask Iraq and Libya. A toppled tyrant is one thing; building a better nest is another. Right now, Syria’s skies are dark with rival factions circling for power, and the winds of chaos threaten to blow the country’s fragile feathers to bits.

OLD ENEMIES, NEW PROBLEMS

The rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), swooping into Damascus from Idlib, is the stuff of revolutionary dreams – or nightmares, depending on who you ask. Led by Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, a man with a past as murky as a harbour at midnight, HTS claims to represent the people. Yet their track record of human rights abuses makes this gull wary. Are they freedom fighters or just another flock of authoritarian hawks?

Meanwhile, other groups are circling: Kurdish militias in the northeast, Turkish-backed rebels, and southern opposition forces. They may have united to boot out Assad, but unity is as rare as a fish supper down at Milford docks. What happens when their common foe is gone? A splintered Syria could be a feeding frenzy for power-hungry predators.

FISHY FOREIGN INTERESTS

Let’s not forget the meddling humans from afar. Russia and Iran,

Assad’s biggest backers, are licking their wounds. Their grip on Syria, once as firm as a seagull’s on a chip, is slipping. Vladimir Putin’s airstrikes and Iran’s support kept Assad afloat, but now their investments look shakier than a pier in a gale. Israel, too, has its feathers ruffled, fretting about chemical weapons and the return of jihadist threats. And then there’s Turkey’s President Erdoğan, whose obsession with Kurdish forces may have accidentally triggered this chaos. A classic case of a gull biting off more than it can chew.

As for Britain, Europe, and the US? Their response has been as effective as a seagull trying to negotiate with a crab. Years of half-hearted interventions and missed opportunities leave them squawking from the sidelines.

THE PEOPLE’S PERIL

Let’s not forget the real victims: the Syrian people. More than 300,000 lives lost, millions displaced, and countless scars – physical and emotional. Now,

prisons are emptying, and refugees may flood home to a country in tatters. Rebuilding Syria will be harder than finding a sunny spot on a Welsh beach in winter.

But amidst the doom and gloom, there’s a glimmer of gullish hope. Syrians have shown incredible resilience, and their determination to rebuild their nest is inspiring. If they can rise above revenge and chaos, perhaps they can piece together a brighter future.

A CAUTIONARY TALE

So, my feathered friends, let Syria’s story remind us that toppling tyrants is just the first step. The real challenge lies in creating a fairer, freer flock. Until then, this seagull will keep watch, wings spread wide, hoping the winds of change blow in the right direction. Remember, folks, whether in Milford or Damascus, it’s the people who hold the power to shape the skies. Let’s wish them steady wings and fair weather. CAAAWWW!

RSPCA reports large rise in pet neglect cases in Wales

The RSPCA has revealed a distressing 12% increase in animal neglect reports in Wales during the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period last year. With 3,163 cases reported between January and September, up from 2,822 in 2023, the charity fears the situation will worsen as financial pressures mount during the festive season.

C OUNTIES HIT HARDEST

Rhondda Cynon Taf recorded the highest number of neglect reports (266), closely followed by Cardiff (262) and Swansea (237).

Across England and Wales, the RSPCA’s emergency cruelty line logged 48,814 incidents of neglect during the same period, marking a 25% increase from 2023’s 38,977 cases. On average, one incident is reported every four

minutes, highlighting the scale of the crisis.

F ESTI v E FEARS

The RSPCA, celebrating its 200th anniversary this year, attributes the rise in neglect and abandonment to the surge in pet ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the current cost-of-living crisis.

Superintendent Jo Hirst said: “A 12% rise in neglect calls in Wales is deeply concerning, especially as winter brings increased financial pressures. With energy bills, Christmas costs, and other challenges, we fear the trend will continue.”

She added: “Every four minutes, we receive a report of neglect. Coupled with a 30% rise in abandonment cases over the last three years, it’s a stark reminder of the challenges pets and their owners face. But together, through our Join the Christmas Rescue campaign,

we can make a difference.”

H EARTWARMING RESCUE : PATSY PANCAKE

One of the year’s most remarkable rescues involved a Shih Tzu affectionately named Patsy Pancake. Found abandoned in Bridgend in January, Patsy was in a critical condition, with a matted coat contaminated by faeces and sepsis threatening her life.

Thanks to prompt veterinary care and RSPCA foster support, Patsy made a miraculous recovery. Now officially adopted by her foster carer, Jayne, Patsy is thriving alongside another rescued Shih Tzu, Ruby Bish Fingers.

Jayne shared: “Patsy Pancake has transformed into a sassy, vocal, and loving dog. She’s settled wonderfully with my other pets, including Ruby, and I couldn’t let her go after fostering her.”

RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector Gemma Cooper praised the community’s role in Patsy’s rescue. “It was touch and go, but thanks to incredible veterinary staff and a caring finder, Patsy has a second chance at life.”

Help for struggling pet owners

The RSPCA has launched a cost-of-living hub offering advice and support for those in financial difficulty. In Wales, the charity’s branches have established the Wales Pet Food Bank, distributing donations to food banks across the country.

To locate your nearest pet food bank or seek assistance, visit the RSPCA website: Wales Pet Food Bank.

As the festive season approaches, the RSPCA urges the public to support its lifesaving work through donations and by joining the Join the Christmas Rescue campaign.

Campaigners fight to secure Lampeter University’s future

CAMPAIGNERS are striving to secure 10,000 signatures on an online petition to prompt a debate at the Welsh Senedd about the future of Lampeter University.

The petition follows an announcement in November by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) to relocate all undergraduate teaching from Lampeter to its sister campus in Carmarthen. The decision has sparked a campaign to safeguard Wales’ oldest university.

The Lampeter Society, an alumni group, has strongly opposed the proposal, citing years of underinvestment in Lampeter’s infrastructure, courses, and marketing. In contrast, the Society claims significant resources have been allocated to expand the university’s Swansea campus.

“Inevitably, this prioritisation against Lampeter has led to a marked decline in student numbers on the Lampeter campus,” the Society stated. “But the proposals will have a

devastating effect on the local community as well as opportunities and employment in the area.”

The petition calls on UWTSD and the Welsh Government to create a “viable, sustainable plan for the long-term future of the Lampeter campus.” Over 2,000 supporters, many of them alumni from across the UK, have signed so far. However, 10,000 signatures are required to secure

a debate at the Senedd.

Organisers have intensified their efforts, reaching out to residents in the streets, pubs, and shops of Lampeter to drum up local support.

Local voices join the campaign

Former student Jane Langford, who lives near Lampeter, highlighted the potential impact of the changes.

“Local people are all very aware how bad this would be for

the town,” she said.

“The campus at Lampeter has always fostered an environment of acceptance and inclusivity, and gave me the confidence to be myself. I’ve carried that with me throughout my life.

“Local campuses and universities are so important for widening provision and access to higher education. For so many people, studying in a campus like Lampeter is perfect, as not everybody wants the hustle and bustle of a bigger town or city. I feel very sad that these proposals will end 200 years of undergraduate teaching at Lampeter.”

A historic institution under threat

Established in 1822, Lampeter University is Wales’ oldest higher education institution. In 2009, it merged with Trinity College Carmarthen and later joined Swansea Metropolitan University to form UWTSD.

Supporters of the campaign who wish to sign the petition can visit: https://petitions.senedd. wales/petitions/246410.

Progress and challenges in Additional Learning Needs reform

ESTYN has published a report today assessing the implementation of the Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018 (ALNET) and its accompanying ALN Code by schools, settings, and local authorities across Wales.

The report, titled The Additional Learning Needs System: Progress of Schools, Settings, and Local Authorities in Supporting Pupils with Additional Learning Needs, highlights the dedication and resilience of staff while exposing inconsistencies in the effectiveness of reforms and the challenges faced by stakeholders. It builds on findings from Estyn’s recent thematic review, The New Additional Learning Needs System.

Progress and successful practices

The report finds that where ALN reforms are implemented successfully, many pupils are making notable progress from their starting points. Schools and settings with an inclusive culture are shown to focus effectively on the learning and well-being of all pupils. The role of the Additional Learning Needs Coordinator (ALNCo) is particularly impactful when integrated

into senior leadership teams, enabling strategic contributions to improving provisions and outcomes for pupils with ALN.

Positive developments were also identified in funded non-maintained early years settings, with Early Years Additional Learning Needs Officers (EYALNLOs) providing timely and effective support for younger children with emerging or identified ALN.

Challenges and inconsistencies

Despite progress, the report identifies significant challenges that must be addressed:

• Variability in local authority guidance for inclusive teaching and learning.

• Inconsistent interpretation

of the ALN Code, especially regarding the development of Individual Development Plans (IDPs).

• Limited support for Welshmedium ALN provision due to recruitment and resource shortages.

CHIEF INSPECTOR’S STATEMENT

Owen Evans, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, commented: “It is encouraging to see the dedication of school staff and local authorities in implementing ALN reform. However, our findings show that more needs to be done to ensure consistency and equity in provision, especially for Welsh-medium learners and in

clarifying the application of the ALN Code.

“We hope this report will support schools, local authorities, and the Welsh Government in building on the positive practices identified and addressing the remaining challenges, particularly in strengthening inclusive education across all settings.”

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPROvEMENT

The report includes actionable recommendations for school leaders, local authorities, and the Welsh Government. These focus on:

• Strengthening professional learning for ALN staff.

• Enhancing Welsh-medium support to address recruitment and resource gaps.

• Improving quality assurance processes to ensure consistent application of the ALN Code.

By addressing these issues, the report aims to guide all stakeholders towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system for pupils with additional learning needs in Wales.

EDUCATION

Calls to oppose farming inheritance tax change

A CALL on Pembrokeshire County Council to oppose the Labour Government’s changes to inheritance tax affecting family farms is to be heard later this week.

At the Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced farmers would have to pay inheritance tax on agricultural property and land worth more than £1 million at a rate of 20 per cent, with a £3m threshold for couples passing on their farms.

This compares to a 40 per cent rate on other estates.

A Notice of Motion by Councillor Aled Thomas, ‘relating to Protecting British Family Farms and Preserving Rural Communities’ is to be heard at the December 12 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s full council meeting.

Cllr Thomas, who stood as a Conservative candidate for Ceredigion-Preseli in the 2024 general election, asks that: “Pembrokeshire County Council notes its concern to the proposed changes to inheritance tax announced by the Labour Government in the recent Autumn budget, which would scrap Agricultural Property Relief (APR).

“APR has been instrumental in allowing British family farms to remain intact across generations, supporting food security,

sustaining rural communities, and aiding environmental stewardship. This tax is estimated to impact over 70,000 family farms, leaving the average farming family with a tax bill of at least £240,000, which will force many to sell portions of their land or close entirely, paving the way for corporate ownership over family ownership.”

It calls on the council to resolve to “oppose the Labour Government’s changes to inheritance tax affecting family farms,” to “advocate for the

exemption of family farms to preserve the UK’s food security, rural communities, environmental initiatives,” and to “commit to maintaining its county council farms portfolio, particularly to encourage younger and new generations of farmers into the industry”.

It finishes: “This council urges all councillors to stand with Britain’s family farms, to support our rural communities, and to protect the environment by formally rejecting this proposed ‘family farm tax’.”

Cllr Thomas’s notice of motion will be considered at the December 12 meeting.

Claims were recently made,

and denied, that Mid and South Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell may have had insider knowledge of changes to Agricultural Property Relief recently announced by the Chancellor, with inferences it led to his wealthy landowner parents shielding their estate.

A spokesman for the Mid and South Pembrokeshire Labour MP said: “As has been widely reported, it would seem that even Steve Reed, the Secretary of State for DEFRA, was not aware of the specific changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) before the Budget was announced.

“It would therefore be implausible to suggest that Henry – a backbench MP – would have this kind of knowledge prior to the Chancellor’s Budget announcements before they were made public.

“The actions taken by Henry’s parents were based on professional advice from qualified financial advisers, reflecting prudent and responsible management of their family affairs.

“This is something that every farmer in Pembrokeshire should consider in light of the Chancellor’s recent announcements, to ensure they are prepared for the evolving landscape of farming taxation.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Royal Welsh 2025 county Caernarfon to hold hill farming event

CAERNARFON, the feature county at next year’s Royal Welsh Show, is to hold an upland farming event at the iconic Hafod Y Llan farm near Beddgelert, Snowdonia on Thursday, July 12.

Bedwyr Jones, working committee chair who farms next to Hafod y Llan, said local and national agricultural companies will be invited to showcase their products for upland farming, alongside various other community organisations and businesses.

The committee aims to offer something for everyone, with guest speakers and demonstrations, including sheepdog trials. Additionally, seven colleges providing agricultural education across Wales are expected to bring teams of three students to compete in contests such as fencing, motorbike driving, shearing and stock judging.

Arwyn Owen, Hafod y Llan farm manager, said the farm’s origins date back to medieval times, with the first recorded mention of it found in letters from Llywelyn Ein Lliw Olaf to Edward I in the 13th century.

Early inhabitants depended on the valley’s fertile pastures and natural resources. By the 19th century, Hafod y Llan had become synonymous with sheep farming, shaping the area’s cultural and natural landscapes while supporting the local community.

In 1998, the National Trust purchased the Hafod y Llan estate to safeguard its cultural and ecological heritage. It has since become a model of sustainable land management,

blending traditional farming practices with innovative conservation efforts.

Having land that rises from 71 metres to the summit of Yr Wyddfa at 1,085 metres, Hafod y Llan continues to inspire visitors and future generations, showcasing how agriculture can thrive in a harsh, unforgiving yet breathtakingly beautiful landscape.

Anyone interested in securing a stand or a sponsorship package is asked to contact: hfe.dffu25@gmail. com.

Call for more responsible farming in Pembrokeshire to be heard

A CALL for a special farming role to be established for one of Pembrokeshire

County Council’s senior councillors is to be heard later this week.

In a question to council leader Cllr Jon Harvey, to be heard at the December 12 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s full council meeting, Conservative group leader Cllr Di Clements will ask: “With the recent changes in the budget from the UK Labour Government on Inheritance Tax and Agricultural Property Relief, many Pembrokeshire farmers are feeling concerned for the future of their family farms, many in Pembrokeshire which have been in the same

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

family for generations.

“I have always found it disappointing that in all the years I have been a councillor, and the major contribution farming has to this county’s economic, cultural and environmental well-being, there has never been a Cabinet Member’s title with rural affairs or farming, or agriculture within it.

“To show that this council recognises the importance of agriculture, and the hundreds of millions of pounds generated by farming, will the Leader consider including it in one of the titles of his Cabinet

Members’ portfolio?”

Cllr Clements will also ask a second question of the council’s leader, who replaced Cllr David Simpson in the role back in May.

Pembroke St Mary North member Cllr Harvey beat fellow leadership hopeful Conservative group leader Di Clements by 30 votes to 27 to secure the role.

Cllr Clements will ask: “The leader has now had some time to settle into his new role. Could he outline his key priorities for the future and explain how he intends to ensure value for money for council taxpayers on the services it provides?”

Both questions will be heard that the December 12 meeting.

Recent months have seen a range of challenges emerge within the farming sector. From the strain of compliance with the latest Agricultural Pollution ‘NvZ’ regulations, to the recent upheaval and uncertainty stemming from UK Government’s changes to inheritance tax. However, for many, both will be dwarfed by the continued impact of Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) on Welsh farmers and their livelihoods.

The devastating disease has cast a long shadow over Welsh farming for decades, meanwhile farmgate frustrations regarding the Welsh Government’s approach have often boiled over - further fueling the farming sectors’ protests earlier this spring.

The scale of the problem facing the sector and Welsh Government in tackling the disease remains substantialdespite huge sacrifices already being imposed on farming businesses.

Earlier this year we were reminded of the magnitude of the challenge, with Welsh Government data recording over 11,000 animals being slaughtered for TB control in the year up to March 2024 - an increase of 16.8% yearon-year.

Meanwhile, previous FUW analysis of GB TB statistics show that over the last six years, there has been a mere 0.09% reduction in the number of ‘Not Officially TB Free’ herds in Walessetting a dismal trajectory for achieving TB freedom.

For Welsh farmers, the financial burden accompanying the disease remains immense - with the strict control measures, testing, and culling a severe disruption to farming operations, reducing productivity, and diminishing farm incomes.

Beyond the economic toll, the emotional and

mental health burden on farmers can also be significant. Dealing with the disease can be a deeply distressing experience, with farmers witnessing the suffering of their animals, whilst grappling with the uncertainty of their business and future.

Whilst eradicating bTB remains a massively complex and emotive subject, it’s all too clear that we cannot continue with the status quo.

To this end, the FUW welcomed the opportunity last week to attend the Welsh Government’s first meeting of the Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board in Cardiff. Chaired by Sharon Hammond, a beef, sheep and poultry farmer, the Board brings together expertise and experience from a range of farmers and representatives from both farming unions.

The Programme Board will meet quarterly and provide strategic advice to the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales and Welsh Ministers. This work will include working alongside the Bovine TB Technical Advisory Group in the New Year to review Wales’s 6-yearly eradication targets.

A productive first meeting was had, with the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs also present. As was the case with the recent discussions over the revised Sustainable Farming Scheme, we have welcomed the opportunity to work collaboratively with both industry and Government to influence and direct change over this crucial issue.

The future of Welsh farming depends on our ability to address the threat of bTB. By working together, we truly hope we can eradicate this devastating disease and secure a brighter future for our cattle. farmers, and our rural communities.

The all-new Škoda Elroq:

Ringing in the next chapter of electric mobility in the popular compact SUV segment

Curtains up for the first of its kind: the all-new Škoda Elroq is the Czech brand’s first all-electric model in the strategically important compact SUv category. At the same time, it is also the first model to adopt Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language, combining robustness, functionality and authenticity. The Elroq offers a comprehensive line-up of powertrain and battery options, with a maximum range of up to 360 miles. Its extensive standard equipment includes a rear-view camera, Crew Protect Assist, Blind Spot Detection, 13-inch infotainment and SmartLink. This combination makes the Elroq the most affordable electric vehicle in its segment in the UK market, with a starting price of £31,500.

Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, says: “The Škoda Elroq is our first BEV model in the compact SUV class, the fastest-growing and most popular sub-segment in Europe. The Elroq stands out as our first model to adopt the Modern Solid design language, defined by robustness, functionality and new visual accents such as the black Tech-Deck Face. A wide choice of battery sizes and an excellent drag coefficient enable a range of up to 360 miles. The standard equipment package is extensive, including multiple state-of-the-art

assistance systems. At a very competitive starting price, the Elroq is the most affordable vehicle in its segment, achieving price parity with its ICE counterpart.”

Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, adds: “The Škoda Elroq delivers an attractive pricevalue proposition at the right time, as it offers many interested car buyers an easier and more affordable way to drive electric. Its appealing overall package, combined with a spacious, comfortable, and highly functional interior, as well as outstanding

handling characteristics, makes it the ideal companion for many customer groups – from families to corporate clients. We are confident that the latter, in particular, will appreciate its expected high residual value. We will be offering flexible financing options and attractive leasing rates, paired with special service packages and car insurance conditions.”

Perfect choice for everyday explorers in and out of the city

The all-new Elroq is the latest addition to Škoda’s growing electric portfolio, which will include various new models over

the coming years. The compact SUV is the electric alternative to the Karoq and offers list price parity with its ICE counterpart. It is perfectly equipped for both urban and suburban environments and outdoor adventures off the beaten track, thanks to its compact dimensions, spacious interior and superb driving characteristics.

Modern Solid: Tech-Deck Face with a new interpretation of familiar Škoda lines

The exterior of the Elroq is defined by a distinctive shape and clean lines, making it the first Škoda model to adopt the new Modern Solid design language. Looking at traditional Škoda design elements from an entirely new perspective, the glossy black Tech-Deck Face replaces the typical Škoda grille, while still referencing familiar Škoda lines. The new front is also characterised by a robust front bumper with a Unique Dark Chrome insert, while the hallmark Škoda SUV “four eyes” headlights graphic has been completely reinterpreted. The Elroq is also the first model to feature the Škoda lettering on both the bonnet and steering wheel. The Elroq features an exceptionally aerodynamic body, boasting a drag coefficient of just 0.26. This is achieved through a range of innovative design elements, enabling a top speed of 111 mph.

Call to stop MP employing councillor labelled ‘political stunt’

A CALL to stop a senior Pembrokeshire County Council member being employed by the local MP, to be heard later this week, has been labelled “a political stunt, aimed at fostering division”.

In a Notice of Motion submitted to the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, Independent Group leader Cllr Huw Murphy says: “While it is acceptable for Cabinet members to hold other employments, no serving county councillor should hold a Cabinet position within Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) while simultaneously being employed by a sitting Member of Parliament (MP) or Member of the Senedd (MS).

“Cabinet members hold executive responsibilities, and such dual roles risk potential conflicts of interest, particularly if Cabinet decisions conflict with the policies of their employer, often a political party. This concern is heightened in a council where most members are Independents.”

In the registration of interests for the eight members of leader Cllr Jon Harvey’s Cabinet, only Cllr Joshua Beynon, Deputy Leader of the Labour Group and Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, lists a politician as an employer, in his case newly-elected Mid and South Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell.

Responding to the notice of motion, Cllr Beynon said: “I have

significant concerns about the Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Huw Murphy, which is scheduled for consideration on December 12.

“This motion, which appears to target my unique position as a Cabinet Member for Finance and part-time parliamentary employee, raises serious questions about its fairness, legality, and intent.

“At its core, this is a politically

motivated motion that seeks to undermine the principles of fairness and freedom. It attempts to dictate lawful employment choices of councillors, disregarding the importance of balancing public service with individual rights. Such an approach risks creating a chilling effect, discouraging capable individuals from serving in public office in the future.

“Furthermore, this motion lacks substantive merit and is not worth the paper it is written on. It is little more than a political stunt,

aimed at fostering division rather than focusing on the needs of the community.

“I trust that my constituents will see this for what it is—a distraction from the real issues that matter to the people of Pembrokeshire. I remain committed to serving with integrity and ensuring that the values of fairness and transparency are upheld within our council.”

Cllr Murphy’s notice of motion will be heard at the December 12 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council.

More scrutiny over second home owners tax

A CALL to identify when Pembrokeshire councillors learned the second homes council tax premium also applied to the police precept for Dyfed-Powys as a whole is to be heard later this week.

Second homes in Pembrokeshire are to pay a 150 per cent council tax premium from the next financial year, down from a previous 200 per cent premium, what was effectively a treble council tax rate, after a drop was recently backed.

In two related submitted questions to be heard at the December 12 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s full meeting, Sian Evans asks: “When Pembrokeshire councillors first agreed to impose a [second homes] premium on council tax in 2016, they voted to apply the premium (initially 50 per cent) to the basic council tax rate.

“However, council tax bills for second homeowners have

always multiplied all three elements of the council tax bill: the basic council tax, the town/ community council precept and the police precept.

“This year the police precept (Band E) was £400. With the premium this increased to £1,200. It should be remembered that the collection of the premium was intended to offset the negative effects of second homes in Pembrokeshire.

“Given that councillors were unaware of the need to multiply all three components of the council tax bill when they voted for the adoption of the council tax premium, when were councillors subsequently informed – in the intervening seven years – of this requirement?”

Her second question asks: “Precept collected from second homeowners in the name of Dyfed Powys Police is allocated widely

across four counties. Those who should be able to, find it difficult to explain the calculation, allocation and application of the precept, or how the charging of extra precept that is spent in three other counties, can offset the negative effects of second homes in Pembrokeshire.

“Would the council make an undertaking to provide a simple yet thorough explanation of this extra police precept to the satisfaction of those who pay it, and those who agreed to it, in readiness for the new financial year?”

Last year, following a call by Cllr Mark Carter for an investigation of how the second homes premium tax rate for the police precept was used and spent, members heard the police part of the bill for ordinary taxpayers was lowered by a small amount as second-homeowners paid a premium.

A report for committee members at the time clarified

that the additional revenue was not handed over to Dyfed-Powys Police.

It stated: “Whilst the introduction of the premiums does not increase the overall funding for Dyfed-Powys Police, it does change the proportion of their costs that Pembrokeshire is expected to fund.”

This meant – on last year’s rates – the police precept for a non-second-home average Band D property would increase from £290.16 to £296.12 without a second homes tax premium, committee members heard.

A response to Sian Evans’ questions is expected to be heard at the December 12 meeting.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Drakeford: Plaid Cymru faces ‘day of reckoning’ on draft budget

MARK DRAKEFORD warned Plaid Cymru will face a “day of reckoning” on whether to block the Welsh Government’s £26bn spending plans for next year.

Wales’ finance secretary laid down a challenge to Plaid Cymru after unveiling the Welsh Government’s 2025/26 draft budget which included an extra £1.5bn for public services.

Prof Drakeford said he remains open to talks with Plaid Cymru about how the budget can be improved, with Labour one seat short of the majority needed to pass its spending plans.

But, addressing opposition benches, he warned: “If that’s not the business you are in then, believe me, the people of Wales will see through you and the political games you think you can play with their future.”

He added: “There’s £253m for local government and when you vote against the budget, you will be saying to those local authorities that you don’t want them to have a single penny of it.

“That’s what serious politics is about … and that day of reckoning is coming your way.”

The cooperation agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru collapsed in 2023, and the party has said it intends to vote against this year’s budget on March 4.

Leading a debate on December 10, the former First Minister told the Senedd the spending plans for the 12 months from April seek to protect the most vulnerable people in society.

He said: “It is a budget for priorities, it is a budget for growth, it is a budget that reminds people in Wales why, time after time, they have put their trust in a Labour government.

“A government which shares their values of trust, ambition, care for one another, and especially those who need that care the most. And that … is why this is a budget for hope, a budget which sets out on that path to deliver a brighter future.”

Peter Fox, the Conservatives’ shadow finance secretary, criticised Labour’s “taxand-spend frenzy” and raised concerns economic growth could slow.

Mr Fox said: “Both Labour governments just don’t understand business,” as he described national insurance increases as a tax on growth and a broken manifesto pledge.

He rejected “fictitious” claims of a £22bn “blackhole” in the UK’s finances left by the Tories, adding that the Welsh budget has increased due to tax rises and vast amounts of borrowing.

Mr Fox welcomed an additional £253m for local government but cautioned it will still leave councils facing a “cliffedge” with financial pressures totalling £300m.

The former council leader said the Welsh Government has “finally seen sense”, agreeing to offer retail, hospitality and leisure businesses the same business rates relief as in England.

Heledd Fychan, for Plaid Cymru, warned the draft budget falls short of the funding Wales is owed following the lowest real-terms increase of all the devolved nations at 1.3%.

The party’s shadow finance secretary reiterated calls for billions from HS2 and

replacement of the “outdated” Barnett formula with a fairer model based on population need.

Ms Fychan said: “Without this, it is clear despite the uplift many sectors will be left broken and uncertain about the future: cuts will still have to be made, council tax will have to rise and the backlog across the NHS will remain incredibly high.

“Yes, the investment is welcome but it is a drop in the ocean of what’s needed.”

Ms Fychan, who represents South Wales West, warned the budget will largely plug gaps created by Westminster and Labour mismanagement.

Labour’s Lee Waters said the opposition reaction “breeds cynicism in politics”, accusing the Conservatives of complaining about revenue raising plans while demanding more money.

Pointing to a need for cooperation, the former minister added: “Plaid Cymru have already said before they heard the budget that they would be voting against this budget. So, how is that seriously engaging with the constitutional reality that we’ve all embraced?”

Responding to the debate, Prof Drakeford said: “I understand the Conservative party – the problem for them is so do the people of Wales.”

Turning his ire to Ms Fychan’s depiction of £1.5bn extra as a “drop in the ocean”, he told the debating chamber or Siambr: “Well … some drop and some ocean.

“She too asked for more money for local government, more money for the arts, she referred, of course, to the sainted Scots. There is a day of reckoning coming for Plaid Cymru, though, isn’t there, on the budget?”

Plaid Cymru MS Heledd Fychan

Conservative MS Peter Fox

Chris Haines

ICNN Senedd reporter

last Thursday’s speech (or reboot?) by PM Keir Starmer on a ‘Plan for Change’, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said:

“The targets announced risk being milestones on the road to nowhere, without a proper plan to deliver them.

“After years of being ignored by the Conservatives, people feel like this new government still just isn’t listening.

“The Liberal Democrats will hold this government to account on delivering on the issues people care about most, from fixing the NHS and care to solving the cost of living crisis.”

On the government’s announcement on neighbourhood policing, he added:

“The previous Conservative Government pushed frontline policing to the brink and robbed our communities of the justice they deserve.

“What the government has announced is the first step in addressing years of Conservative

W ITH ANDREW LyE

incompetence and rebuilding the proper frontline policing our communities deserve.

“Now, it’s up to the government to bring forward the resources and reforms needed to actually make these proposals a reality.

The Liberal Democrats will hold this government to account on crime. That means ensuring these new bobbies on the beat are able to focus on stopping and solving the crimes that impact our communities the most.”

Commenting after the speech Ed Davey said:

“After years of Conservative chaos, the people want real change instead of a government simply moving the goalposts.

“The Liberal Democrats will hold this government’s feet to the fire on keeping its promises, most of all on fixing the NHS and care.”

With health and social care being devolved to the Senedd, the problems are as serious here in Wales, under the Welsh Labour Government.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Council could end support of popular triathlon

A CALL to end Pembrokeshire council support for the annual Long Course Weekend triathlon event which it is said has left south county communities ”at breaking point” is to be heard later this week.

Billed as ‘Europe’s largest multi-sport festival’, the event features swim, bike and run over a variety of distances, with the elite athletes completing all three disciplines at maximum distance to earn the coveted Long Course Weekend medal.

The Tenby-based multi-day triathlon events have been held in the summer since 2010 in the county, but concerns have been raised about loss of trade and inconvenience due to road closures associated with it.

Local members Cllr Chris Williams and Cllr Alec Cormack are to ask, at the December 12 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s full council, that the council withdraw support for the annual Long Course Weekend.

Their Notice of Motion says: “This multi-day triathlon event, typically taking place in June, has been a significant success in terms of showcasing our county and promoting physical activity. However, as the event has grown in scale, it has increasingly led to disruption for residents and businesses along

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

the course, many of whom report inconvenience or loss of trade due to road closures spanning up to three days.

“While Pembrokeshire County Council does not provide direct financial contributions to the event, it offers substantial ‘inkind’ support. Given the feedback from residents and businesses, it is evident that public support for the event has diminished. Additionally, in light of the council’s ongoing financial pressures, it is no longer appropriate to allocate resources to support a profitdriven event at the expense of taxpayers.”

It ends, proposing that “PCC withdraw all support for the Long Course Weekend moving forward, ensuring that council resources are directed towards services and initiatives that directly benefit the wider community”.

In a supporting statement, the two councillors say the event has now “reached a scale where its negative impacts are impossible to ignore in village communities,” and “the continued support of the LCW by Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) is no longer justifiable”.

“Our community is at breaking point; residents and businesses in Saundersfoot, Amroth,

Wisemans Bridge and Coppet Hall are effectively cut-off for the majority of a Saturday each June/July by the Long Course Weekend two-lap bike race. Many other areas of South Pembs are similarly affected, some on both Saturday and Sunday if they are also on the run course too.”

It adds: “Community support for the event, which began on a much smaller scale and without road closures, has always been based on the argument of the event representing a ‘greater good’ for Pembrokeshire as a whole – especially to businesses in the Tenby and surrounding area, even if it had a negative effect on Saundersfoot and Amroth.

“However, [at a meeting on September 11 this year] where county councillors from the whole route provided community feedback it seemed to us that there were no councillors enthusiastically supporting the event in its current form and its current location.”

They finished: “There is a mounting sense of frustration in our wards that the Long Course Weekend is a fait accompli and will always take place each year in the same place, in more or less the same way. We therefore ask councillors to support our motion to end the council’s support of Long Course Weekend in its current form.”

Streeting strengthens puberty blocker ban

A TEMPORARY ban on the sale and supply of pubertysuppressing drugs is now indefinite.

Although Health is a devolved responsibility, the Scottish, Northern Irish, and Welsh Governments have endorsed a UK-wide approach on the issue.

The UK’s Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, announced the decision in the House of Commons on Wednesday, December 11. Mr Streeting’s decision followed a report by the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM), which found the drugs’ use represented an unacceptable safety risk to children. The report recommends indefinite restrictions while work is done to ensure the safety of children and young people.

NO REvIEW UNTIL 2027

The NHS stopped the routine prescription of puberty blocker treatments to under 18s in March 2024, following the Cass Review into gender identity services.

Despite the Health Secretary’s decision, some persons are advising others to defy or circumvent the Secretary of State’s order. Breaching the order is a criminal offence under The Medicines Act 1968.

The last government imposed a temporary ban on the use of puberty blockers in May. On Wednesday, the Labour Government made the order indefinite. It will not be reviewed until 2027.

“UNACCEPTABLE SAFETY RISK”

Health and Social Care

Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Children’s healthcare must always be evidence-led. The current prescribing and care pathway for gender dysphoria and incongruence presents an unacceptable safety risk for children and young people.

“Dr Cass’s review also raised safety concerns about the lack of evidence for these medical treatments. We need to act with

BLUE vIEW

SAMUEL KURtz

As we reach the end of the year, it’s always a good time to pause and think about the past twelve months—celebrating the wins, learning from the challenges, and wondering, as we often do, where the time has gone.

2024 has certainly been a busy one, full of twists and turns. For me, one of the standout moments came back in February with the farming protests against the Welsh Labour Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). Leading that protest as Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs is something I’ll always be proud of. It wasn’t just any protest—it ended up being the biggest demonstration the Senedd has seen in its 25-year history.

caution and care when it comes to this vulnerable group of young people and follow expert advice.”

Dr Hilary Cass, author of the independent review of gender identity services for children and young people, said: “Puberty blockers are powerful drugs with unproven benefits and significant risks. That is why I recommended that they should only be prescribed following a multi-disciplinary assessment and within a research protocol.

“I support the government’s decision to continue restrictions on the dispensing of puberty blockers for gender dysphoria outside the NHS, where these essential safeguards are not being provided.”

LOOPHOLE CLOSED

James Palmer, NHS Medical Director for Specialised Services, said: “We welcome the government’s decision to ban further access through private prescribers, which closes a loophole that posed a risk to the safety of children and young people, but this will be a difficult time for young people and their families who are affected, so we are extending an offer of targeted support to anyone affected by the banning order from their local mental health services.

“NHS patients who are already receiving these medicines for gender incongruence or gender dysphoria can continue to access them, as can patients receiving the medicines for other uses.”

popular at first, and I received plenty of letters about it. But I had faith that once the work was finished, people would see the benefits. Now that the system is up and running, with all lanes open again, I’m hearing from those same sceptics who are pleased with how it’s turned out. The junction is safer, and journeys are much smoother.

Who could forget the striking image of hundreds of wellington boots on the Senedd steps? Each pair represented a job at risk because of the scheme. Farmers and rural communities from across Wales came together to make their voices heard, and they made a real impact. The Welsh Labour Government was forced to acknowledge that their SFS just wasn’t good enough. The demand for 10% tree coverage was unworkable, and the scheme as a whole put livelihoods at risk. In the end, they delayed the rollout, promising to go back to the drawing board, listen to the people it would affect, and make changes.

Success like that often sparks momentum, and another big issue that came up locally this year was the Nash Fingerpost junction. After a series of accidents there, including a tragic fatality, something had to be done. Many people had been calling for a roundabout, but for various reasons, including cost, that wasn’t an option. Instead, temporary traffic lights were put in place while work started on permanent smart traffic lights. These lights use technology to keep traffic flowing as smoothly and safely as possible.

I’ll admit, the roadworks and lane closures weren’t

This year has also brought plenty of political change. We’ve seen a new Prime Minister take office, two new First Ministers here in Wales, and just last week, the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd elected Darren Millar as our new leader after Andrew RT Davies stepped down. A change in leadership is always a time to pause and reflect, but it’s also a chance to look ahead with fresh energy. Darren has already made it clear that the Welsh Conservatives won’t just sit back as the opposition. Labour doesn’t have a divine right to govern Wales, and over the next 17 months, leading up to the Senedd election, we’ll be working hard to give voters a real alternative. We’re not just going to oppose Labour policies; we’ll be setting out our own positive vision—standing up for farmers, supporting small businesses, and championing conservative values like freedom and justice. Darren summed it up perfectly: “Wales is broken, and we’ll have a plan to fix it.”

As I look back on 2024, I’m filled with optimism and ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead. I can’t wait for 2025 and to keep serving the incredible people of Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire.

Over one in four care seekers in Wales unsure who will pay for care as costs soar

A NEW report has uncovered significant uncertainty surrounding elderly care funding in Wales, with more than a quarter of care seekers unsure who will bear the costs.

Data from carehome.co.uk, a leading reviews website, shows that 26% of Welsh care seekers who inquired between November 1, 2023, and October 31, 2024, did not know how their care would be funded— surpassing the UK national average of 21%.

SELF-FUNDING: A GROWING TREND

Among those with a clear funding plan, 41% in Wales stated they would self-fund their care. This figure compares with 53% in England, 40% in Northern Ireland, and 37% in Scotland, highlighting regional differences in funding approaches.

LOCAL AUTHORITY FUNDING AND THE RISE OF TOP-UP FEES

The research reveals that 13% of Welsh care seekers rely on local authority funding, aligning with the UK average. However, with local councils under financial strain and care home fees climbing, many families face additional “top-up” costs to bridge the gap between council contributions and actual fees.

In Wales, 13% of care seekers anticipate paying top-up fees, a growing challenge as families struggle to meet rising expenses.

NHS continuing healthcare: A complex system

Only 7% of care seekers in Wales expect to benefit from NHS continuing healthcare funding, slightly above the UK average of 5%. This funding, which is not means-tested, covers full care costs for adults with complex health needs. However, critics point to inconsistencies in assessments across regions.

James Urquhart-Burton, a partner at Ridley and Hall Solicitors, described the issue:

“Your chances of getting NHS continuing healthcare funding vary based on your location, which is a problem given that the criteria are standardized nationwide. The reliance on assessors’ judgments

to determine need introduces subjectivity into the process.”

Rising costs and public confusion

Sue Learner, editor of carehome.co.uk, expressed concern over widespread confusion about care funding:

“Our data shows an acute lack of understanding among the public in Wales about how the social care system works and how to navigate it. It’s incredibly concerning that a significant proportion of care seekers still don’t know whether the council or they themselves will cover costs.”

Learner highlighted the financial strain on self-funding

residents, with care home fees in Wales averaging £1,066 per week. Rising costs—driven by increases in National Insurance, the National Living Wage, energy bills, and food prices—add to the burden.

“Care homes are increasingly prioritizing self-funding residents due to financial pressures,” she added. “This trend may reduce the number of care homes accepting state-funded residents, leaving families to grapple with an already complex system.”

As care costs continue to rise, understanding funding options and planning ahead are becoming critical for families across Wales.

16 TVs for Withybush purchased thanks to charitable donations

Thanks to donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, has been able to purchase 16 Tvs worth over £7,000 for the patient rooms in the Accident & Emergency Department at Withybush Hospital.

Jo Dyer, Senior Nurse Manager, said: “We are very grateful that charitable funds have enabled us to purchase 16 new TVs for the Accident & Emergency Department at Withybush Hospital.

“It is hoped that patient experience will be improved by installing the new televisions

in patient rooms as well as helping to make them more comfortable during their time in the department.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www. hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk

Senedd votes to ban single-use vapes

A vOTE has been passed in the Senedd today introducing new regulations to prohibit the supply of single-use vapes in Wales.

Introducing The Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) (Wales) Regulations 2024 to prohibit the supply (including for free) of single-use vapes in Wales will be another crucial step in tackling the litter and plastic pollution which blight our streets and environment.

Following the vote in the Senedd, the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “This is a major step forward in tackling throwaway culture and the environmental impacts of single-use vapes. This is a key priority for the Welsh Government, and we continue to work with the other UK nations to address these challenges.

“Removing single-use vapes from the supply chain will stop them harming

wildlife and the environment when they’re littered or sent to landfill. This ban will mean we generate less waste, clean up our streets, and protect nature and wildlife.”

The Regulations will come into force on 1 June 2025.

The Welsh Government has worked closely with UK Government and other Devolved Governments on this matter with all Nations commencing the bans at the same time.

This will enable the bans to be coordinated to improve compliance and help provide a consistent approach to enforcement across the UK.

No single-use vapes can be sold or given away for free after 1 June 2025. Businesses should speak to their suppliers now about ordering alternatives and start to educate staff and inform customers.

Businesses will need to organise, for their customers, the eventual safe disposal of their single-use vapes.

Lib Dems press Welsh Government on ambulance waiting times

THE WELSH LIBERAL DEMOCRATS have intensified their criticism of the Labour Government over shockingly long ambulance waiting times in Wales. During Wales Questions in the House of Commons, Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe MP David Chadwick highlighted a harrowing case from his constituency, underscoring the dire state of emergency healthcare in Wales.

An 82-year-old man was forced to drive his wife, who had suffered a stroke, from Rhayader to Hereford—over an hour and 15 minutes away on winding, poorly maintained country roads—while she was paralysed and vomiting, unable to receive any immediate medical assistance. The family was left with no choice after waiting two hours for an ambulance and being informed that the wait could extend another 4–7 hours.

Chadwick described the delays as “abysmal” but, unfortunately, not uncommon in border communities across Wales. He called on both the UK and Welsh governments to take urgent action to address ambulance delays, emphasizing that a crisis in social care was exacerbating the problem.

RECENT FIGURES HIGHLIGHT GROWING CHALLENGES

Recent NHS Wales data reveals that in 2024, response times for Category 1 (life-threatening) calls remain below the target of 65% being answered within eight minutes. In some areas, fewer than 50% of such calls are met within this critical window. Furthermore, figures show that average ambulance waiting times have reached nearly six hours in parts of rural Wales, leaving patients in vulnerable situations.

Hospital congestion is one of the primary causes of the delays. Ambulances are frequently left queuing for hours outside hospitals like Hereford and Glangwili, as wards remain full due to patients who cannot be discharged without adequate social care arrangements.

Care Forum Wales has warned that the ongoing social care funding crisis could collapse the system entirely, leaving a £150 million shortfall after changes in funding announced by Labour in the UK Government Budget.

STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES IN WALES

The geography of Wales presents unique challenges for healthcare provision. Vast rural areas, coupled with poor road infrastructure, mean that emergency

services often struggle to reach patients quickly. In 2024, Powys—one of the most rural counties in Wales—saw ambulance response times among the worst in the country.

Moreover, staff shortages across the NHS and social care sectors are contributing to the strain. Healthcare workers are reportedly leaving the industry due to burnout, low pay, and the increasing complexity of their roles. Many social care providers have also expressed concern that the Labour Government’s decision to increase national insurance for care providers risks making an already precarious situation worse, potentially leading to more closures of care homes and services.

CALLS FOR ACTION

David Chadwick reiterated his concerns, saying: “Residents across Powys and right across Wales are

enduring unacceptably long waits for ambulances in moments of crisis. A 7-hour wait is no longer a rare occurrence—it’s a damning indictment of how stretched our emergency services have become.

“Our hardworking healthcare professionals are doing everything they can under incredibly tough circumstances, but they need support. Labour’s policy of increasing national insurance for social care providers risks making the situation at A&Es worse by leading to more blocked hospital beds and further delays in ambulances being able to respond to emergencies.

“Social care is a critical part of the solution to easing pressures on hospitals and ambulance services. Without urgent action to address these systemic issues, residents will continue to face unacceptable risks. I will keep fighting for my constituents to ensure that no one is left without care during their time of need.”

The Welsh Liberal Democrats are calling for a reversal of the national insurance rise for social care providers, increased investment in both NHS Wales and the social care system, and improved road infrastructure in rural communities to ensure emergency services can reach patients more efficiently.

A SYSTEM UNDER STRAIN

The challenges facing Wales’s healthcare system are deeply rooted and multifaceted. While ambulance waiting times are a visible symptom of the crisis, addressing the underlying causes—such as social care shortages, funding deficits, and rural infrastructure—will require coordinated action between the Welsh and UK governments. Without such efforts, the risks to patients across Wales will continue to grow.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

SEND yOUR LEttERS tO: THE EDITOR, 11 hAMILtON tERRACE, MILFORD hAvEN, PEMBROKEShIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US At: editor@herald.email

LETTERS & NOTICES

NOBLE SACRIFICE

DEAR SIR,

Britain recently marked the noble sacrifice of those who gave their lives in warfare. Yet, amidst this solemn remembrance, some hypocritical television presenters called on Labour politicians to increase armament expenditure, all while insisting taxes remain unchanged.

There seemed to be little recognition that British sacrifice in World War II was intrinsically linked to the sacrifices of our Allies— Russia, China, and many others—who rose above nationalism to forge a new world order. Together, they established global standards of justice, epitomised by the United Nations and international cooperation, exemplified by the European Union. Their collective aim was World Peace, a goal they deemed worth the ultimate price. It is not for us to devalue that legacy.

I recall certain U.S. generals and right-wing politicians in 1945 suggesting it was a strategic moment to turn against our Communistweakened allies, driven by hatred rather than gratitude. This weekend, similar rhetoric emerged from Conservative figures, distorting the international sacrifices made to secure peace as justification for increasing modern armaments. Such actions only provoke further rearmament from nations like China, perpetuating an arms race.

Simplifying complex international politics is unwise, but desecrating the memory of those sacrifices with such distortions is a moral failure. This is not merely an opinion but a universal truth: hatred and greed destroy those who embrace them, while sacrifice uplifts humanity.

The roots of this issue lie in psychology and economics. Capitalism, devoid of ethical foundations, has fostered Conservative policies that deny our children the moral values they need to mature. Instead, toxic ideals of masculinity—conceited superiority, patriarchy,

PICTURE OF THE wEEK!

by STAN PARTLETT

misogyny, and even sadism— are often glorified, creating role models unworthy of emulation.

If we allow our children’s characters to be shaped by such destructive influences, we lose the power to preserve a civilization that once championed the values of the United Nations and international cooperation. We must choose a path that honours the sacrifices of the past by striving for peace and justice, not perpetuating cycles of conflict.

C N Westerman

CARING FOR thE LONELy AT CHRISTMAS

DEAR SIR,

As Christmas approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations – shopping,

decorating, and planning celebrations. But for many people, this season is not a time of joy, but of loneliness and isolation. The festive cheer that fills the air can often deepen the sense of solitude for those without loved ones to share it with.

In our community, there are countless individuals – the elderly, single parents, those grieving a loss, or simply people living far from family – who may feel forgotten at Christmas. The good news is that each of us has the power to make a difference.

Here are some simple ways we can all help: Check in on neighbours: A warm hello or an invitation to share a meal can mean the world to someone who might otherwise spend the holidays alone. Volunteer your time: Local charities, food banks, and shelters often need extra help during the holiday season. Volunteering not only helps others but also enriches

your own festive spirit. Support community events: Many towns hold Christmas lunches or parties for those who might otherwise be alone. Donations of food, money, or time can help make these events a success.

Send a card or gift: A thoughtful gesture like a Christmas card or small gift can brighten someone’s day and remind them they are cared for.

Be inclusive: When planning your own celebrations, consider inviting someone who might not have family nearby.

Christmas is a time to share love, kindness, and goodwill. By reaching out to those who may feel lonely or forgotten, we can help make this season a little brighter for everyone.

Together, let’s make this Christmas not just a season of giving, but of caring.

James Francis

Death Notices

WILLIAM SCOtt BOyLE

THE death occurred peacefully at his home with his family at his side, on Sunday 1st December of Mr. William Scott Boyle, aged 76 years, of Walwyns Castle.

Dearly loved husband of Alison, devoted father to Emily and adored grandfather to Joshua and Freya.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 17th December at 11.30am at St. James Church, Walwyns Castle followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1pm.

Family flowers only, donations if desired for The Audiology Department, Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest or The Paul Sartori Foundation may be sent to Miss. Emily James, 32 Tudor Way, Haverfordwest, SA61 1HU.

All enquires to Tom Newing and Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Tel 01646 693180

ARTHUR THOMAS

THE death occurred peacefully on Thursday 28th November 2024 at Park House Court Nursing Home, Tenby of Mr. Arthur Claude Thomas, aged 80 years.

Beloved Husband of Pat. Dearly loved Father of Caroline, Beverley and Stewart. Cherished Grandpa to Callum. A dear Brother, Father-in-law and Uncle.

The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 18th December 2024 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1:00pm.

There will be family flowers only.

Funeral arrangements will be carried out by E.C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth (01834) 831876.

GRAHAM THOMAS

SUDDENLY at his home on Saturday 23rd November, Graham of Penbanc, Fishguard.

Beloved husband of the late Margaret, loving father of William and Peter and a dear brother.

Funeral service on Wednesday 18th December at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3:15pm.

Family flowers only.

Further enquiries to Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Fishguard. Tel: 01348 873250.

CAthERINE MARGAREt PEARL DAvIES

PEARL passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on 30th November, aged 85 years.

Dearly loved Mother and Motherin-law to Julie and Jestyn, an adored grandmother to Aaron, beloved sister and sister-in-law to Alec and Diane, dear Aunty to Nigel and Victoria, Nerys and Richard and great-aunty to Carwyn, Iestyn, Gethin, Jimmy and Grace Funeral service, Thursday 19th December at 1.00pm, Penuel Chapel, Roch.

Family flowers only, donations if desired, to be shared equally between Penuel Baptist Chapel, Roch and Ward 4, Withybush Hospital c/o W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, 64 New Street, St.Davids, SA62 6SU

EDWIN WATTON

The death occurred peacefully on Sunday 1st December 2024 at Caldey Grange Care Home, Kilgetty of Mr. Edwin Watton, affectionately known as ‘Ted’ aged 92 years formerly of Gibbas Way, Pembroke.

Beloved Husband of Pam. Ted will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

A private funeral service will take place.

Should you wish to make a donation in memory of Ted, please kindly forward direct to Dementia UK www.dementiauk. org

Funeral arrangements are being carried out by E.C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke (01646) 682680 & Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth (01834) 831876.

ELIzABEth MARy hUNt

THE death occurred peacefully on Monday 25th November 2024 at Withybush Hospital of Mrs. Elizabeth

Mary Hunt affectionately known as ‘Liz’ aged 75 years of Bierwood, Manorbier also of Grandiflora Garden Centre and Bramleys Tearoom in St Florence.

Dearly loved Liz will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday 19th December 2024 at St. Florence Church at 11:00am.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for The Paul Sartori Foundation c/o E.C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth (01834) 831876 & 21, Main Street, Pembroke (01646) 682680 or via www.ecthomasandson.co.uk

SERVICES

RECLAIMED BUILDING MAtERIAL

RUBBISh AND WAStE REMOvAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASh

SPORT

Cymru awaits Euro 2025 draw

IT’S a question that women’s football in Cymru has been waiting for: When will the draw for Euro 2025 take place, and more importantly, who will Rhian Wilkinson’s side face in Switzerland?

This question is already a hot topic among the team, who made history by beating the Republic of Ireland in Dublin to secure a place in their first major finals.

Cymru’s qualification via the playoffs marks a significant milestone, and the excitement is palpable. Star player Jess Fishlock, the record goalscorer for Cymru, expressed the team’s ambition to progress beyond just participating in the tournament. “We’re not there to make up numbers. I believe – and these girls believe – we’re going to get there and compete,” Fishlock told Football Focus.

“The dream of reaching a major finals seemed beyond my wildest dreams, but now we’re here, we just can’t wait to experience it.”

Adding to the sense of local pride, captain Angharad James-Turner, who hails from Pembrokeshire, plays a crucial role in the team’s success. “It’s a dream come true for me and all the girls,” said James-Turner. “Representing Cymru in such a major tournament is an incredible honour, especially knowing we’ve come this far.”

The draw for the group stages will take place on Monday, 16 December, in Lausanne, Switzerland, at 17:00 GMT. The tournament will feature 16 teams, including hosts Switzerland, competing across eight venues from 2 to 27 July.

The group stage will see the teams split into four groups of four, with the top two from each group advancing to the quarter-finals.

Cymru, having qualified via the playoffs, will be placed in Pot 4 for the draw.

Other teams in this pot include Finland, Poland, and Portugal. The other seeding pots are as follows:

Pot 1: Switzerland (hosts), Spain, Germany, France.

Pot 2: Italy, Iceland, Denmark, England. Pot 3: Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Belgium.

“We’ve already started asking each other who we would like, and everyone’s putting in different teams,” Fishlock added. “But it almost doesn’t matter what the group is – we’re just so excited now. We can’t wait to get there and compete.”

The draw for Euro 2025 marks a historic moment for Welsh women’s football, as they look to make a mark on the European stage and show they are not just making up the numbers but ready to compete at the highest level. With players like Angharad James-Turner from Pembrokeshire leading the way, Cymru has a strong local connection to celebrate as they prepare for this momentous event.

Cymru world cup qualifyinG opponents announced today

CYMRU will discover their World Cup qualifying opponents today as the draw is made in Zurich at 11:00 GMT.

As well as finding out who will be standing between them and a place at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Craig Bellamy’s side will also learn how many opponents they will face—whether in a group of four or five teams.

Matches are scheduled to be played between March and November 2025, with play-offs to follow in March 2026 if

required.

Having had to wait 64 years between their first and most recent appearance at a World Cup, Cymru are now aiming to qualify for the finals for a second time in succession.

Among the storylines to follow is the tantalizing possibility of seeing two Pembrokeshire players representing Cymru on football’s grandest stage. Could veteran Joe Allen, alongside the rising “Kilgetty Messi,” Liam Cullen, both feature in a World Cup squad?

Week 7 report – Pembrokeshire Cricket First Division Indoor League

Pembroke A outclass Pembroke B Pembroke B (80 all out) lost to Pembroke A (81 for 0) by 6 wickets

Pembroke A showcased their dominance in indoor cricket with a convincing 6-wicket victory over Pembroke B. The B team was bowled out for a modest 80 in their 12 overs, overwhelmed by the pace and precision of Callum Davies and Billy Wood. Davies, the competition’s fastest bowler, delivered figures of 2 for 8 in 2.2 overs, while Wood claimed 2 for 25. Sam Davies added 1 for 23 to the tally.

B team captain Ceri Davies was the lone bright spot, striking two fours and two sixes in his top score of 32 before falling to Callum Davies. The rest of the lineup faltered, unable to form meaningful partnership.

In response, Pembroke A chased the target with ease. Openers Luke Butler (26 off 17) and Billy Wood (25 off 17) laid a strong foundation, with both hitting several boundaries. Archie Hillier-Wood contributed a steady 7 not out, while Sam Davies smashed two fours and a six in a rapid 15 not out off five balls. Pembroke A finished on 81 without loss in just 8.2 overs, climbing to second place in the league standings.

Llanrhian overcome Pembroke Dock Llanrhian (123 for 4) beat Pembroke Dock (102 all out) by 21 runs

Llanrhian secured a 21-run victory over Pembroke Dock, consolidating their top-four position while leaving the Dock in the bottom two. The

highlight of the match was a resilient 47 by Dock captain Nick Daley, who was the last man dismissed.

Llanrhian set the pace early, with openers Daf Williams (33 retired) and Iwan James (27) adding 50 runs in just five overs. Russell Martin added a brisk 15 before a poor run-out ended his innings. Karl Davies chipped in with an unbeaten 24 and then starred

with the ball, taking 3 for 25. Williams also bowled effectively, claiming 2 for 14.

The Dock’s bowlers, including Rhys Daley (1 for 23), Nick Daley (1 for 26), and Tom Grimwood (2 for 32), worked hard but couldn’t prevent Llanrhian from posting 123 for 4, aided by 21 extras.

In reply, the Dock’s chase faltered

as they lost key wickets early, with Rhys Daley (5), Grimwood (1), and Adam Phillips (13) falling cheaply. Nick Daley fought valiantly, but his dismissal left Scott Griffiths (18) to provide late resistance. Despite their efforts, the Dock were bowled out for 102, falling short of the target.

Neyland A edge out Hook in top-ofthe-table clash

Hook (93 all out) lost to Neyland A (95 for 3) by 3 wickets

Neyland A tightened their grip at the top of the table with a narrow 3-wicket win over Hook in a keenly contested encounter. Hook managed 93 all out in their 12 overs, with Neyland’s Sean Hannon starring with a superb allround performance, scoring 24 runs and taking 3 for 9, including a doublewicket maiden.

Hook’s innings started poorly, losing Liam Miller (4) and Harry Makepeace (1, run out) early. George James (25) and Aled Phelps (26) stabilised the innings, but Neyland’s bowlers, led by Jack John (2 for 12), kept them in check.

Neyland A’s chase began cautiously but stayed on course. Hannon and Dai Davies added 22 runs in the opening three overs, with Davies retiring on 25. Despite late wickets, including Steve Murray’s dismissal by Bradley Flood (1 for 29), Andrew Miller (14 not out) and Jack John (14 not out) guided Neyland to victory with four overs to spare.

With this win, Neyland A maintained their perfect record, extending their lead at the top of the league.

Indoor cricket: Lawrenny youngsters win low-scoring tussle

Lawrenny (82 for 4) beat Neyland B (63 for 5) by 19 runs

THE MATCH between Lawrenny and Neyland B turned into an unexpectedly low-scoring affair, with both sides struggling to rack up runs. Challenging conditions, possibly due to the newly introduced balls known for swinging more before being fully “knocked in,” appeared to hamper the batting.

Batting first, Lawrenny posted a modest 82 for 4 in their 10 overs. Finley Lewis (12) and Will Allen (21 from 15 balls) top-scored, with Rhys Eynon adding a quickfire 23, including two sixes and two fours, before being run out. Noah Williams remained unbeaten on 16, with 10 extras boosting the total. Neyland B’s Tom Pritchard (2 for 12) and Iestyn Myles (1 for 21) were the pick of the bowlers.

In reply, Neyland B struggled against Lawrenny’s bowling attack, led by Finley

Lewis (2 for 5). Early dismissals of John Tennick (3) and Iestyn Myles (2) left the team reeling at 5 for 2. Jamie Smith managed 13, while Tom Pritchard fought hard with a defiant 22, but it wasn’t enough. Additional contributions from Lawrenny’s bowlers Will Allen (1 for 16), Rhys Eynon (1 for 12), and Oscar Lewis (1 for 12) ensured Neyland B were restricted to 63 for 5, sealing Lawrenny’s 19-run victory.

Cresselly cruise to victory over Pembs Seniors A

Pembs Seniors A (97 for 5) lost to Cresselly (98 for 0) by 6 wickets

Cresselly continued their dominant run with a clinical performance against Pembs Seniors A. Chasing a modest target of 98, they cruised to victory in just 7.4 overs without losing a wicket.

The Seniors struggled with the bat after losing key player Kevin Bowen for 3. Andrew Williams (24) and Alan Webster

(36 not out from 24 balls) provided some stability, but the rest of the lineup faltered. Stuart Carpenter chipped in with 15, including a six, but contributions from Huw Scriven (5) and Mark Hicks (0) were minimal.

Cresselly’s bowlers, led by Griff Jenkins (2 for 16) and Tom Arthur (1 for 20), kept the Seniors in check. In reply, Noah Williams (25, including three fours) and Griff Jenkins (26, with two sixes and two fours) retired unbeataen, setting the platform for Tom Rowlands (23 not out) and Milo Jones (16 not out) to finish the chase in style.

haverfordwest Lightning strike Seniors B

Haverfordwest Lightning (128 for 4) beat Pembs Seniors B (88 all out) by 40 runs

Haverfordwest Lightning delivered a commanding performance, setting a strong total of 128 for 4 in their 10 overs

before dismissing Pembs Seniors B for 88 to win by 40 runs.

Shan Pereira anchored the Lightning’s innings with an excellent 37, supported by Will Phillips (26) and Matthew Vaughan (19). Jake Merry contributed 12, and with 26 extras, the team posted a daunting total.

The Seniors’ response relied heavily on Jonathan “Taffy” Williams, who remained unbeaten on 38, smashing four sixes. His all-round effort included a stellar 4 for 24 with the ball, but he received little support. Martin Thomas added 28, but the rest of the lineup collapsed, scoring just 7 runs between them.

Haverfordwest’s bowlers, particularly Jake Merry with a sensational 2 for 2, ensured the Seniors never gained momentum. Sean Atyeo (1 for 14) and Dylan Lee (1 for 17) also contributed, sealing Lightning’s victory with an impressive all-round effort.

MANDERwOOD PEMBROKESHIRE LEAgUE 2024/2025

Storm Darragh halts Pembrokeshire Football League

The Manderwood Pembrokeshire Football League postponed all matches scheduled last weekend due to the severe weather conditions brought by Storm Darragh.

The storm, which saw winds exceeding 90mph and heavy rain, led to a red weather warning from the Met Office. This prompted widespread safety concerns across Pembrokeshire and the rest of Wales.

The decision to suspend games reflected the league’s commitment to player and spectator safety, as traveling in such dangerous conditions posed significant risks. Clubs were also urged to secure loose items like goalposts and fencing to prevent damage during the storm. Amber warnings for continued high winds remained in place even after the initial red alert was lifted

Power outages and infrastructure damage were widespread, with emergency services responding to numerous incidents across the region. The league plans to reschedule affected matches, ensuring minimal disruption to the season

Referee Marty Jones shares thoughts on the season

LAST WEEKEND’S games may have been washed out, but The Herald sat down with popular referee Marty Jones to hear his reflections on the season so far.

Best welcome of the season?

“Fishguard Sports for their Division 2 clash against Carew 2nds was the standout,” Marty said. “The respect they showed was impeccable. From the warm welcome by coaching staff and players to the thoughtful touches like tea at half-time and full-time, they went above and beyond. Even the payment was sorted upfront, which is always appreciated! The atmosphere created by their coaches and supporters was excellent—no issues there, unlike what can occasionally happen elsewhere. Visiting Fishguard is always a pleasure… well, apart from the rabbit holes!”

Most impressive team?

“It has to be Goodwick United,” Marty revealed. “I’ve only reffed their first team once this season, and while that particular game didn’t go smoothly for me, they’re an incredible team. Their resilience and defensive quality set them apart. There’s a saying: ‘Attackers win you games, defences win you titles,’ and Goodwick embody that. Nick Jones, their keeper, has the best distribution

in the league by far. Reffing them is always a privilege, and as a football lover, I relish officiating games involving the top teams.”

Surprising quality?

“Division 1 and Division 2 this season are the best I’ve seen in years,” Marty observed. “Tenby have particularly caught my eye. While I know how good they are, they’ve still managed to surprise me with their performances— drawing with Hakin, pushing Goodwick, and consistently playing entertaining, attacking football. They’re a pleasure to referee and would be great to watch as a fan. It speaks volumes about the strength of Division 1 that a quality team like Tenby isn’t in title contention.”

Standout players?

“It’s tough to choose,” Marty admitted. “For juniors, Ollie Clarke from New Hedges Saundersfoot deserves a mention. He’s respectful, talented, and scored the best header I’ve ever seen. The juniors league is in great shape, with plenty of promising players like him. For seniors, I have to highlight Jack Ashman. His recent performance was incredible—the best individual display I’ve seen all season. While I’m not saying he’s the most consistent player in the league, that match was

something special.”

Marty predicted confidently. “Their defence is rock solid, and I can’t see them losing. Hakin aren’t quite there yet. Division 2 is much harder to call, but I’d back Fishguard Sports. They have the squad depth to edge out Narberth in a close race.

“For the cups, I’d love to see a Hakin vs. Goodwick final in the Senior Cup, with Hakin on their day being capable of anything. In Division 2, I’m picking Fishguard for a league and cup double. That said, I haven’t reffed Narberth yet, so maybe I’m being a little unfair to them. It’s brilliant to see such strong competition in both divisions— it keeps the Pembrokeshire leagues exciting!”

MANDERwOOD PEMBROKESHIRE LEAgUE 2024/2025

Division

Herbrandston

Kilgetty

Division

Broad

Carew

Division

Haverfordwest

Letterston v Camrose Reserves N

Division

Prendergast

v Tenby II

St Ishmaels Res v Newport Tigers

Division 5

Kilgetty III v St Clears Res

Manorbier United v Letterston Res

Milford Athletic Res v Herbrandston Res

Narberth Reserves v Milford United III

Solva Reserves v Hundleton Reserves

Cymru awaits Euro 2025 draw