The Pembrokeshir herald 01/11/2024

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Scrum half cleared of designer watch robbery charges

OSPREYS scrum half Luke Davies, alongside three other men, has been acquitted of stealing four designer watches, valued at £1,800, in a case presented at Swansea Crown Court.

Davies, Adam Thomas, Jordan Ball, and Jake Ball, along with former Wales U20 hooker Dom Booth, had faced charges alleging the robbery of two TAG watches, one Breitling, and one Radar from a residence on New Road, Llanelli, on December 24, 2021. Initially, all five men pleaded not guilty, with a trial set for November 18.

However, 24-year-old Booth, of Pyatts Nest in Saundersfoot, later changed his plea to guilty in September.

Meanwhile, Davies, of Tir Becca, Tumble; 24-year-old Thomas, of Heol Waunyclun, Trimsaran; Jordan Ball, 25, of Maes Y Glo, Llanelli; and Jake Ball, 21, also of Maes Y Glo, Llanelli, maintained their not guilty pleas.

The case returned to Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Oct 31), where prosecutor Ieuan Rees announced that the Crown Prosecution Service would offer no evidence against the four remaining defendants. Rees cited that the complainant had not cooperated with the prosecution and was under investigation for fraud, questioning his credibility.

Judge Geraint Walters, expressing

“great reluctance and a great deal of anxiety,” directed not guilty verdicts for Davies, Thomas, and the Ball brothers. Booth’s earlier guilty plea is now likely to be challenged, with his representatives expected to apply to vacate the plea.

Davies, 22, who joined Ospreys from Jersey Reds last year after progressing through Scarlets’ ranks, has since made 13 appearances in the United Rugby Championship and represents Wales at the U20 level. Booth, previously with Scarlets, made his debut in the Pro14 against Edinburgh in 2020 and also played for Wales at the U20 level.

Teacher sentenced for assault days before pupil’s death

A TEACHER has been sentenced for assaulting a pupil just days before the teenager tragically lost his life.

Llyr James, 31, from Adpar, was charged with assault by beating following an incident on March 9 in Newcastle Emlyn. James denied the assault on 16-year-old Llyr Davies but was found guilty at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on October 8.

Returning to court on October 25, James received an 18-month community order, requiring him to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and undertake 20 rehabilitation activity days. He was also ordered to pay £650 in court costs and a £114 victim surcharge.

The court heard that just three days after the assault, Mr Davies died in an unrelated accident involving a tipper truck at Gilfach Quarry in the Efailwen area of Clynderwen on March 12.

Llyr’s family described him as “kind, funny, and charming,” adding that life would “never be the same without him.”

Former teacher and Tenby resident admits making indecent images of children

A FORMER schoolteacher, described as a ‘high risk’ sex offender, has pleaded guilty to fresh charges of making indecent photographs of children.

This week Christopher Flavin, 72, appeared before Judge Geraint Walters sitting at Swansea Crown Court via a video link from Parc Prison, Bridgend,.

He pleaded guilty to making 12 indecent Category B images of a child between July 1, 2018, and December 9, 2023, and of making 296 indecent Category C images of a child between the same dates.

The images were discovered on a blue Alcatel mobile phone which was found in Flavin’s possession.

The father of two, who previously lived in Tenby, originally denied making the indecent images, however he changed his plea to guilty on the morning of his trial this Monday. Judge Geraint Walters requested a probation report to be prepared prior to sentencing which will take place on November 25.

Flavin was remanded in custody.

Milford Haven man jailed for sexual offending spanning five decades

A MILFORD HAVEN man has been jailed for 20 years after admitting to non-recent sexual offences against children spanning 42 years.

Swansea Crown Court heard how Alan Roberts had committed 23 crimes against young girls between 1976 and 2018, with each of his six victims believing they were alone in suffering his abuse.

The 74-year-old, of Picton Road in Hakin, pleaded guilty to 17 counts of indecent assault of a girl under 14, four counts of gross indecent assault with a girl under 14, and two counts of assault of a girl under 14 by touching.

Dyfed-Powys Police officer DC Paul Kelly said: “The defendant’s offending was over a period of 42 years which is a shocking, prolonging period of abuse, and his 20 year sentence reflects this.

“I would like to thank the six extremely brave victims in this case. They have all shown immense strength of character firstly in reporting the abuse, and also in working with us throughout the investigation.

“This case is an important reminder that justice can be served many years after abuse has taken place.

“I hope the victims and families who have been affected by the actions of Alan Roberts can now try to move on with their lives, and that his sentencing gives them some kind of closure.”

Jailed for sexual assault on stranger in her own home

A MAN from Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, who subjected a woman to a “brutal” sexual assault in her own home, dragging her back by her hair when she attempted to escape, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Benjamin Guiver, 35, broke into the woman’s home in Goodwick on 24 May 2024 while she was asleep and launched a violent attack. Swansea Crown Court heard that the victim, whose identity is protected by law, had fallen asleep around 21:00 BST in her living room while watching television, awaiting her partner’s return. She awoke to find Guiver, a stranger, kneeling beside her.

When she tried to flee, Guiver pursued her outside, covering her mouth to stifle her screams, kicking her, and throwing her across the driveway. He then dragged her back inside by her hair, where the assault continued.

The court heard harrowing details of the attack, during which Guiver repeatedly beat the woman, sexually assaulted her, and choked her while threatening to kill her. The victim, in an attempt to reason with him, noted she could tell he was upset, but he responded by escalating his violence, telling her he intended to rape and kill her. At one point, he repeatedly bashed her head against a radiator. The assault only ended when the victim’s relative and partner arrived home, forcing Guiver to flee the property.

During sentencing, Judge Geraint Walters described the ordeal as “a brutal and terrifying attack within a person’s own home”, adding that it was “hard for anybody to imagine a more brutal and terrifying attack.” He noted that Guiver was laughing while strangling the victim to the point she turned blue, telling the court, “She was right to fear that you might kill her because you’d completely lost all reason and control due to the drugs and alcohol you’d consumed that day.”

The prosecutor, Robin Rouch, detailed the physical toll on the victim, who suffered numerous injuries, including fractures and extensive bruising on her face and stomach. In an impact statement, the victim expressed how the attack had upended her life, stating, “I am a shell. Constantly nervous and frightened of my own shadow.” She revealed that her injuries have affected her daily life, describing how she struggles with basic tasks and now relies on her partner for support with activities like

getting dressed and doing her hair.

“My whole life has been ruined by one person on one night,” she added. “I know what has happened is going to continue to haunt me for the rest of my life.”

The victim’s son, who was also injured in the struggle to apprehend Guiver, gave a statement, recounting how he arrived home to hear his mother’s screams and acted instinctively to prevent Guiver from escaping. He recalled still being haunted by the sounds of his mother’s distress, saying, “I can’t get the noise my mother was making out of my head.”

Judge Walters sentenced Guiver to 20 years, including a 15-year custodial term and a five-year extended licence period. Guiver also faces an indefinite restraining order preventing any future contact with the victim.

Following the sentencing, DCI

Matthew Briggs of Dyfed-Powys Police commended the victim’s bravery, stating: “The victim in this case has shown immense courage throughout the investigation, and I commend her for that. Suffering such an attack in your own home is unimaginable, and – as she detailed in her statement –has impacted every aspect of her life.” Judge Walters concluded that the consequences of the trauma for the victim would be lasting, adding, “The chances are that she won’t ever completely recover from what you did.”

Following sentencing, DCI Briggs commended the victim’s courage, stating: “The victim in this case has shown immense courage throughout the investigation, and I commend her for that. Suffering such an attack in your own home is unimaginable, and – as she detailed in her statement – has impacted every aspect of her life.” Judge Walters concluded, “The chances are that she won’t ever completely recover from what you did.”

Court Reporter

RAAC problems persist at Withybush

WITHYBUSH Hospital in Haverfordwest is facing ongoing challenges due to reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), with management acknowledging the issue “will not go away, ever.”

Malcolm Arnold, estates manager, stated that the hospital must continually monitor and manage RAAC throughout the building’s lifespan.

The problem first emerged last year, prompting the closure of six wards in the 12-ward facility. Though these wards reopened in April, Hywel Dda Health Board announced that further closures will be necessary for re-surveying by year-end. Despite these temporary shutdowns, Chief Operating Officer Andrew Carruthers reassured that this round of work will be “nothing like the scale” seen previously.

Responding to the hospital manager’s statement, Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister Sam Rowlands MS expressed concern, calling for more comprehensive support for Welsh hospitals. He stated: “Hospitals in Wales need regular surveying, otherwise we will continue to see further capacity lost and patient lives put at risk. With our hospitals crumbling and leaking across Wales, the Labour Welsh Government needs to get real and put serious capital investment on the table to repair the NHS’ infrastructure.”

Raac, a cost-effective but less durable alternative to standard concrete, was commonly used in construction between the 1950s and 1990s. It poses structural concerns due to its limited lifespan, impacting numerous buildings in Wales, including schools, markets, and hospitals like Withybush. The Welsh Government allocated £12.8 million to address affected areas in the hospital.

Following the major incident last year, departments such as outpatient clinics and kitchens have resumed operations, with physiotherapy and pharmacy expected to reopen soon. Nurse Sarah Davies, now working on a reopened ward, remarked on the positive atmosphere, saying: “It feels so good to be back… It’s just nice to have noise here.” However, she acknowledged the frustration that further closures would mean “one step forward, two back.”

The health board plans additional ground floor surveys in 2025 and 2026, with the expectation that Raac management will be an ongoing process. Carruthers commented, “The hospital is over the worst of it… [the resurveying] will be for a very short period of time in small areas of the facility.” However, for Withybush, Raac is now a “business as usual” concern.

In addition to Withybush, Raac has been found in non-patient areas of Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny, suggesting the material’s widespread reach across healthcare facilities in Wales.

Man admits punching woman ‘forcefully’

A COURT has heard how a woman, described as ‘vulnerable,’ was punched viciously to her face near a Pembrokeshire railway bridge, causing her to fall to the floor.

This week Matthew Evans, 36, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates court where he pleaded guilty to a charge of assaulting Shan Jones by beating.

The court was told that earlier that evening Ms Jones and the defendant had been drinking together inside a Kilgetty pub.

“A female went inside a toilet and the defendant went in as well” said Crown Prosecutor Nia James.

“There was indicative talk in the pub of some illegal activity, and the couple were thrown out and the item was flushed down the sink.”

Nia James went on to say that members of the public who were standing outside the pub overhead the couple arguing close to the railway bridge.

“[Matthew Evans] had the female by the shoulders as they stood underneath the bridge, and he was quite noticeable as he was wearing a hi-viz jacket and was carrying a box of beer.

“He was seen wrapping his arm around her and pulling her in for a hug.”

But Evans was then seen punching the female to her face, causing her to fall to the floor. When Ms Jones got up, she was holding her hand to her eye and the witnesses said that it appeared to be red.

The witnesses notified the police of the incident however the victim refused to provide a formal statement of complaint to police officers.

District Judge Mark Layton was told by probation officer Julie Norman that at the time of the incident, Evans was suffering from alcohol and drugs misuse, however she believes there is now a ‘realistic prospect’ of his rehabilitation.

Evans, of Woodfield Avenue, Kilgetty, was sentenced to 12 weeks in custody suspended for two years. He must carry out 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days which will include a ‘building better relationships’ course and an alcohol monitoring requirement. He was ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs. No compensation order was made to the victim as a result of her refusal to give a formal statement.

“There was evidence of drink and some evidence of drug misuse,” commented Judge Layton when imposing sentence.

“You left the pub, and without any real reason, you punched the victim to the face so forcefully that she fell to the floor.

“And what makes this worse is that in December 2022 you were sentenced for a previous assault on the same victim so she’s been assaulted at least twice to the degree that you’ve been brought to court.“If you continue to act violently towards your partner, you’ll end up in prison.”

Shoring props have been used as a temporary measure (Pic: Herald)

Crowd barriers, usually used outdoors, have been used to create ‘safe areas’ for staff and patients (Image: Herald)

Dock man collapses when sentenced for throwing hot meal over his wife

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has been jailed after throwing a plateful of hot food over his wife before throwing a punch directly into her face.

Photographs shown to District Judge Mark Layton sitting at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court court on Tuesday showed Mrs Judith Poole with blood covering her face and food smeared throughout her hair.

This week her husband, Andrew Poole appeared before District Judge Mark Layton for sentencing after pleading guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm at a previous court hearing.

The assault took place at the couple’s home at Ferry Terrace, Pembroke Dock, on the evening of September 10 after Mrs Poole returned home from work an hour later than expected.

“The defendant was not pleased with this,” said Crown Prosecutor Nia James “Julia Poole warned up his food but the defendant said, ‘I’m not eating that s***’. He then grabbed the plate and threw its contents over Julia Poole’s head before punching her to the face.”

The couple’s 23-year-old son was present in the garden at the time of the assault. In a statement made to the police, he said he feared for his mother’s safety.

“I’m scared he will be violent towards my mother again,” he said.

Judge Layton was told that Poole has a history of domestic offences, including an assault committed against his stepdaughter in 2009.

After considering the facts, Judge Layton sentenced Andrew Poole to 16 weeks in custody. Half of this sentence will be served in prison while the remaining sentence will be served on post-sentence supervision. He was ordered to pay a £154 surcharge and £85 costs.

Upon hearing his sentence, Poole collapsed to the floor in the dock at Haverfordwest magistrates court. He was helped to his feet by the custody guards and escorted to the cells.

Taxes up, spending up – It’s Reeves’ big gamble

THE HEADLINE from today’s Budget is a £40bn increase in taxes.

However, those tax increases are aimed at wealth, investment income, and businesses rather than standardrate income taxpayers.

For the latter, the minimum wage rose, the price of draught beer was cut, the freeze in income tax thresholds will end, fuel duty will not rise, and the government is forecast to pump £70bn into public services and national infrastructure.

For small businesses, the Chancellor promised to “permanently lower business rate multiplies” for retail and hospitality businesses, cutting the amount of money High Street business pay in rates.

However, the Chancellor giveth and the Chancellor taketh away.

Rachel Reeves said that the employers’ NI rate will increase to 15 per cent from April next year.

In addition, the threshold at which employers start paying NI on each employee’s salary will drop from £9,100 to £5,000.

Those decisions represent a massive tax raid with massive potential impacts on prices (up), wages (lower), and hiring decisions.

Ms Reeves said that the increase in the employers’ NI rate, combined with the lowering of thresholds, would raise £25m for public services.

However, she sugared the pill, also announcing the employment allowance will rise from £5,000 to £10,500.

The Chancellor said: “This means 865,000 employers won’t pay any national insurance at all next year, and over one million will pay the same or less than they did previously.

“This will allow a small business to employ the equivalent of four full-time workers on the national living wage without paying any national insurance on their wages.”

The Chancellor also targeted wealth and inherited wealth.

Inherited pensions, formerly exempt from Inheritance Tax, will be subject to it.

The threshold will be frozen (effectively, a rise). The Chancellor reintroduced the cap on lifetime pension pots, which was introduced and then scrapped under the Conservatives.

Farmers leaving estates worth over £1m will be subject to 20% in inheritance tax. Capital Gains Tax on shares and dividend income (unearned income) will rise from 10% to 18% for standardincome taxpayers and to 24% for higherrate income taxpayers.

For those at the upper edges of income, there was even more bad news. The Chancellor announced the abolition of Non-Dom tax status, which allows the wealthy to duck tax on their income by claiming to be based abroad. That is unlikely to hit many taxpayers, but closing the Non-Dom loophole is an important symbolic act.

Rachel Reeves’s big gamble is that, by frontloading tax increases, there will be no need for substantial future tax rises for the next three years or so. Having boxed herself in on employee NI and income tax, Rachel Reeves left herself limited room for manoeuvre, making tax rises essential if she was to balance the books and fund unaccountedfor expenditures. As examples of the foregoing, Ms Reeves revealed that although the previous government announced compensation schemes for Post Office employees and postmasters and the victims of the contaminated blood scandal, it had not budgeted for funding them and – as Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury Laura Trott confirmed afterwards, had no intention of standing by the public sector pay awards it announced at the Budget in March.

The second gamble is that injecting money into capital infrastructure projects will drive forward growth and economic activity. If that happens, it will buck a two-decade-long trend of stagnation and industrial failure. If that works, Labour will reap the benefits; if it doesn’t, and if public services do not improve markedly, Labour will suffer.

Budget will ‘devastate farming’, warns MS

A SENEDD Member representing Pembrokeshire, Paul Davies, has warned that the UK Government’s budget will have a catastrophic impact on the future of Pembrokeshire farming. Earlier this week, the Chancellor announced changes to agricultural property relief and from April 2026, inheritance tax will apply at an effective rate of 20% on all farm assets beyond a £1m threshold. Mr Davies told The Pembrokeshire Herald on Friday (Oct 31): “It’s clear to me that this UK Government simply doesn’t understand or care about our farmers as this Budget threatens the future of family farms and will make producing food more expensive. Many farmers in

Pembrokeshire and further afield will now face having to sell their land to pay inheritance taxes, putting the futures of many family farms and the people who farm them at risk.”

“This cruel move from the Chancellor undermines the next generation of farmers as they will face inheritance tax bills when family farms are passed from one generation to the next.”

“Farmers are already facing challenges dealing with excessive red tape, like the Welsh Government’s water pollution regulations and its flawed Sustainable Farming Scheme – and this latest announcement from the UK Government will be another crushing blow to the industry and to our rural communities.”

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Inquest opened following death of schoolgirl

THE PEMBROKSHIRE coroner has opened an inquest into the tragic death of Honey Foxx French, 12, from Hakin – who died after emergency services were called to a home on Saturday (Oct 19).

Pembrokeshire assistant coroner Gareth Lewis opened an inquest into the 12-year-old’s death on Wednesday (Oct 30).

The coroner adjourned the inquest until April 10, 2025, to allow for further investigation. He extended his condolences to Honey’s family and friends.

Dyfed-Powys Police have stated that her death is not being treated as

suspicious.

In a joint statement, Honey’s school, Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, and Pembrokeshire County Council described her as “much loved and cherished.”

“Honey French was a beloved member of our school community at Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi VA. She was a talented performer and writer who generously shared her humour, time, and talents with our school family and the wider community – she will be deeply missed. Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”

The police have launched a full investigation, with inquiries ongoing.

Dragon Energy secures approval for wind turbine project

THREE new wind turbines to bolster renewable capacity at Waterston Renewables Energy Park

DRAGON Energy’s plans for three wind turbines at the Waterston Renewables Energy Park have gained planning approval. Supported by Dragon LNG, the company acknowledged the contributions of key stakeholders, including residents of Waterston, Llanstadwell, and Blackbridge, who have engaged since community

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

consultations began in March 2022. The turbines, designed to complement the park’s 18,500 solar panels, aim to cut emissions and support decarbonisation goals. The new energy infrastructure is expected to be operational by Q4 2026, boosting local renewable energy output.

COMMUNITY FUND TO SUPPORT SKILLS

In line with its community-focused mission, Dragon Energy has established a community benefit fund, suggested by local residents and set to operate for at least a decade from the project’s launch. Beginning in September 2025, the fund will provide upskilling opportunities and energy subsidies specifically for Waterston, Llanstadwell, and Blackbridge residents.

Simon Ames, Managing Director of Dragon, said: “The addition of three wind turbines will bring both immediate construction jobs and lasting benefits to our community. Combined with our solar farm, these renewable assets will help offset about 11,500 tonnes of carbon emissions each year. When onsite demand is low, clean electricity will also be fed into the local grid. We’re immensely grateful for the project team’s hard work and the support from our stakeholders, allowing us to capitalise on this prime location for onshore wind, significantly reducing our scope II carbon emissions.”

Dragon Energy is partnering with Boralex, its consenting and construction advisor, and will maintain open communication with the community and stakeholders throughout the project.

Sexual assault at Pembroke Fair prompts police appeal

A SEXUAL assault was reported at Pembroke Fair on Main Street on Friday, October 11, 2024 between 7:00pm and 8:30pm.

Police are seeking witnesses or anyone with relevant information to assist with enquiries.

Information can be submitted via their website, by email at 101@dyfedpowys.police.uk, by direct message on social media, or by calling 101, quoting reference 24000869978.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.

Man sentenced following police chase through broken window

A 19-YEAR-OLD who ‘lashed out’ at police officers following a domestic incident at his parents’ home in Solva has been sentenced for assaulting an officer and causing criminal damage to a police radio.

Officers were called to a property at Bro Dawel, Solva, in the early hours of September 23 by the mother of Finley Grimshaw.

“When they arrived, there was evidence of a broken television and the officers discovered the defendant [Finley Grimshaw], lying on a makeshift bed,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told district judge Mark Layton when he sat at Haverfordwest magistrates court on Tuesday.

“The defendant was wearing just a pair of boxer shorts so the officers gave him the opportunity to put some clothes on, and initially he was compliant. But when he got up, he ran towards the window which had a missing pane of glass, and jumped through it.

“The police followed him by jumping through the window and when the defendant landed, he slipped. He got up and started swinging his arms towards the officers, resulting in slaps and punches to the officer’s torso. He was trying to get away.”

Grimshaw then adopted what Ms James described as ‘a fighting stance’.

“He pulled at the officers’ radio wire, causing it to snap,” she said.

Grimshaw was eventually kneed to his testicles area, enabling him to be restrained and arrested.

Grimshaw was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order during which he must carry out 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 100 hours of unpaid work. He was ordered to pay £100 compensation to the police officer who was assaulted, and an additional £25 compensation to repair the broken police radio. He must also pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Cardigan WASPI joins London Budget Day pensions rally

A PENSIONS campaigner from Cardigan joined hundreds of 1950s-born women who gathered outside Parliament on Budget Day (Oct 30) to demand compensation for delayed state pensions.

On March 21, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman ruled that women born in the 1950s are due compensation due to the lack of adequate notice given by successive governments about the delay in their

state pensions.

Rachel Nicholas, from the Ceredigion Preseli Women Against State Pension Injustice (WASPI) group, travelled to London from Cardigan. She described the experience as deeply moving, saying:

“It was a very emotional experience, joining thousands of purple-clad women who feel as strongly as I do that the injustice we have suffered must be compensated. We held a minute’s

silence for the WASPI women who have passed away. However, spirits were still high. I’m really glad I went.”

WASPI National Chair Hilary Simpson expressed disappointment over the lack of progress: “Another Budget Day has come and gone with no news of compensation for 1950s women, despite our meeting with the Pensions Minister in early September. It’s now over seven months since the Ombudsman published his

recommendations. The Government must treat this as a matter of urgency; a WASPI woman is dying every 13 minutes.”

The rally saw speeches from Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey, John McDonnell MP, Richard Burgon MP, Lord Bryn Davies (co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Women’s State Pension Inequality), and Jan Shortt, General Secretary of the National Pensioners’ Convention.

Three jailed for cannabis ‘sweet’ production

POLICE are urging parents to remain vigilant following the sentencing of three individuals involved in a large-scale operation producing cannabis-laced gummies in Haverfordwest. The scheme, which used sweets to disguise cannabis, has raised concerns over the risk such products pose to children and young people.

The operation was discovered after Merlins Bridge sorting office staff intercepted a package with a strong smell of cannabis, addressed to a home on Primrose Hill. Inside, authorities found a container filled with cannabis distillate. This led to a police raid at the address, where John Miles, his daughter Chay Miles, and her teenage boyfriend, Kyle Gadsby, were found with branded packaging, cannabis distillate, and sweets in various stages of production.

In total, 11.51 kilograms of sweets had already been infused with cannabis, with a further 14.11 kilograms prepared for processing. A drugs expert estimated the market value of the haul at between £11,820 and £19,666.

During questioning, Gadsby attempted to downplay the substantial stash of sweets, claiming it was to save on shop visits for children. However,

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evidence presented in court revealed that the edibles had been marketed on social media, with positive reviews on Instagram and Snapchat describing them as “f***ing banging” with “fast delivery.”

John Miles, 51, Chay Miles, 28, and 19-year-old Gadsby all pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cannabis on June 5, 2024. They also admitted to involvement in cannabis supply from August 2023 until the June raid.

In court, Judge Huw Rees KC highlighted the serious nature of their offences, noting that disguising cannabis as sweets posed a particular danger to “the vulnerable, the uninitiated, and the naïve.” He described the operation as a “production line” with the potential to serve as an entry point to drugs for unsuspecting young individuals.

The court also heard that John Miles had only been out of prison for four months prior to the raid, having previously served time for cocaine and cannabis supply offences. His daughter Chay, a single mother of three, reportedly joined the scheme due to financial struggles. Gadsby, who had a troubled background, had been involved in the operation for

just a month. He also faced charges from unrelated incidents in Northampton, including drug possession, dangerous driving, and possession of a bladed article.

Judge Rees sentenced John Miles to three years in prison, with both Chay Miles and Kyle Gadsby receiving 27 months each. He remarked that the defendants had exploited social media to market their products to an impressionable

audience and stressed that, while some may view cannabis edibles as harmless, this operation represented “a serious commercial enterprise with significant public health implications.”

Following the case, local police reiterated their warning to parents about the potential for drugs to appear in unexpected forms, especially those designed to appeal to children and teens.

Appeal for witnesses to incident on First Cymru bus

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following an incident on a First Cymru bus traveling from Haverfordwest to Tenby on October 9.

The incident, which occurred between 12:10pm and 12:30pm, involved a woman who boarded the bus at the Iceland food store in Haverfordwest.

The woman is alleged to have directed racially abusive comments at

another passenger.

A 48-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated public order offences and has been released on bail while further inquiries are conducted.

If you witnessed this incident or have any information that may assist officers, please get in touch with Dyfed-Powys Police through any of the following:

Speed camera vans absent in Ceredigion following officer’s retirement

THE GO-SAFE speed camera van, a familiar sight in laybys across Ceredigion targeting speeding motorists in towns and villages, has been out of service since June due to the retirement of its operator.

A spokesperson for GoSafe in DyfedPowys stated: “A Casualty Reduction Officer based in Aberystwyth retired at

the end of June 2024. The recruitment process for this role is ongoing. Whilst we seek to complete this process, we’re using a combination of enforcement officers from other areas and our Operation Ugain teams to ensure the communities continue to be served.”

Despite the vacancy, the team

confirmed that an enforcement vehicle currently covers the region from Cardigan. Operation Ugain, which has carried out 11 operations in Ceredigion—including eight in Aberystwyth—has three more operations planned for October and November.

Launched in response to the 20mph

speed limit rollout in September 2023, Operation Ugain allows officers across Wales to engage with drivers rather than issue fines. Those caught above the enforcement threshold (set at 26mph) may attend a free 10-minute presentation at a local centre as an alternative to a ticket, at the discretion of the officers.

Investigation after head-on train collision

Man admits threatening victim with claw hammer in town centre

AN assault in Neyland town centre by a man holding a claw hammer reached the courts this week when Damian Hill pleaded guilty to threatening a person with an offensive weapon in a public place.

Hill, 46, admitted an additional charge of assaulting Robin Jones by beating during the incident in High Street, Neyland on October 14.

“CCTV footage shows the defendant walking out of a vehicle on two separate occasions,” Crown Prosecutor Nia James told District Judge Mark Layton sitting at Haverfordwest magistrates court this week.

“He was holding a claw hammer and he raised it towards Robin Jones and poked him in the chest with it.”

Following a request from Judge Layton, sentencing was adjourned to November 18 for probation reports to be prepared.

Hill, who gave his address as St Lawrence Hill, Milford Haven, was released on conditional bail, the conditions being that he makes no contact with Mr Robin Jones and does not enter College Park, Neyland.

IN a tragic rail collision near Talerddig, Powys, a head-on crash between two trains on Monday evening led to the death of a passenger, with several others, including the driver, sustaining injuries.

The incident, which has shocked the rural Welsh community, has prompted an immediate investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB).

The RAIB, recognised for its rigorous investigative methods, will focus on identifying the exact cause of the crash. Early assessments hint at challenging rail conditions, particularly due to low wheel-track adhesion often worsened by seasonal leaf fall—a potential hazard that can compromise braking.

Remote crash site poses challenges

The collision occurred near the former Talerddig railway station, a now-closed station on a remote line nestled in the countryside. Emergency services arrived swiftly, facilitated by the nearby A470 trunk road, which runs adjacent to the railway and provided rapid access to the site despite its isolation.

Low adhesion under scrutiny

Initial findings suggest that autumn leaf fall may have created a thin, slippery layer on the track, potentially compromising braking and contributing

to the collision. The previous evening, Network Rail had deployed leafclearing equipment along the Cambrian line, a standard autumnal precaution. Despite these efforts, wooded areas near the accident site make rail conditions particularly challenging during this season.

Leaf-related adhesion issues have been cited in other rail incidents, notably a 2021 collision near Salisbury where crushed leaves caused a train to slide past a red signal, resulting in a crash. The RAIB will examine whether similar factors were at play here.

Safety on single-line railways

The Cambrian line, like many in Wales, is a single-track railway with designated passing loops, allowing trains traveling in opposite directions to share the same stretch of track. While efficient, single-line systems present higher risks compared to doubletrack networks where trains remain on separate lines. The Talerddig loop, located on a slope, has historically posed operational challenges.

Following the crash, Transport for Wales confirmed speed restrictions are in place on several single-line routes, including the Cambrian, to enhance safety.

Since 2011, the Cambrian line has been equipped with the European Train

Control System (ETCS), a high-tech signaling system designed to apply automatic brakes if a train approaches a signal set to danger. Operated from Machynlleth’s control center, the ETCS system’s performance in the moments leading up to the crash will be a critical point of investigation for RAIB inspectors.

Service disruptions

The trains involved in the crash were 35-year-old Class 158 units, refurbished between 2020 and 2022 as part of an ongoing maintenance program. Although they are nearing the end of their service life, there’s currently no indication that age played a role in the accident.

Replacement bus services are now running, though the remote, rural roads make journeys significantly longer than the usual train ride. This is expected to impact passengers heavily, especially students traveling with luggage.

While train travel remains one of the safest modes of transport, rail operators are working to reassure passengers about safety on the network. RAIB’s investigation will likely produce an interim report within weeks, followed by a final report with comprehensive findings. Their team will review factors including leaf fall, the trains’ condition, signaling data, and input from passengers and staff on the scene.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Plans for transport interchange at Milford Haven railway station

PEMBROKSEHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL’S Cabinet has agreed an additional £1.4m of capital funding, alongside grant funding, to support a Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange.

Subject to confirmation of further funding contributions from Welsh Government, work could start to begin on site next year and be completed in 2026.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council said: “We have been working closely with Welsh Government, Network Rail and the train operating companies for some time now and am delighted to be able to bring these proposals forward.

“This project is important in its own right but it’s also a key enabler for dramaticallyimproving rail connectivity for Milford Haven and Pembrokeshire as a whole.

“A new station will do much more than simply improve the station. It will also allow for more frequent services to and from Milford Haven.

“As well as more frequent services, we are working hard with Welsh and UK Governments as well as Great Western Railways to secure the return of direct, high speed, intercity services to the town and this project includes the realignment of the platform to allow the new Hitachi High Speed Services to serve Milford Haven directly.”

The scheme involves improvement

works to the existing Milford Haven train station to create a new public transport interchange by relocating the existing rail platform and providing a dedicated bus interchange between the station and retail area, along with a, taxi rank, formalised car park, public realm spaces and improved Active Travel links.

The scheme will also work in synergy with the Port Authority’s initiatives to improve walking and cycling access to the Milford Haven Dock, further encouraging tourism and urban development and links to the preexisting retail area within the town. Local Member and Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett added: “If this bid is approved by Welsh Government, it will be fantastic news for Milford Haven and go a long

way towards increasing and improving transport connectivity both for those visiting the town but more importantly for the residents of the area.

“The associated works with the scheme to enhance safety and parking measures as well as provide a focal point for a public transport interchange with bus services much needed in our town.”

The scheme, if supported by Welsh Government, will be delivered by Pembrokeshire County Council.

A draft design package was developed and submitted to Network Rail in December 2023 with a revised design ready for resubmission.

Cabinet approved the inclusion of the Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange as part of the Local Transport Fund Bids Grant application for 2025/26 for the sum of £6million to continue the development and phased delivery of the project.

Capital funding totalling £1.4million over 2025-26 and 2026-27 has been committed by the Cabinet.

Mid and South Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell said: “It’s fantastic to see changes being made to Milford Haven Train Station. Good public transport and associated facilities are vital to communities in Pembrokeshire. I am pleased to be working alongside the Council and Welsh Government to positively impact Milford Haven.”

Council ‘disappointed’ as court refuses injunction against Withyhedge operators

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY

COUNCIL has expressed disappointment following a court decision that denied its request for an injunction against Resources Management UK Ltd (RML), operators of the Withyhedge Landfill site.

The case, held on October 21 at the Swansea Civil Justice Centre, was brought by the Council in response to ongoing complaints from residents about severe odours emanating from the landfill.

The judge acknowledged that the odour from Withyhedge constituted a public nuisance, accepting evidence presented by the Council, which included multiple witness statements from affected residents. Despite the ruling, the judge cited precedents from higher Court of Appeal cases, noting that alternative actions, rather than a public nuisance injunction, should be pursued.

judgment emphasised that Resources Management UK Ltd (RML) caused a significant nuisance to the community surrounding Withyhedge as a result of landfill activities.”

Wales, and RML and remain committed to achieving a satisfactory outcome for all local residents and businesses,” he added.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, commented on the ruling: “While we are disappointed with the ultimate decision, the Authority is pleased that the

The Council had previously sought legal advice from King’s Counsel, who supported taking action under common law public nuisance instead of relying solely on Environmental Protection Act provisions. However, the court’s decision suggested that different legal remedies should be explored to address the issues at Withyhedge.

Sinnett also noted steps taken by RML to mitigate the odour, including substantial investment at the landfill and halting waste acceptance since May. “We continue to liaise with Natural Resources Wales, Public Health

Pembrokeshire County Council is now reviewing the court ruling to determine its next steps.

The Council says remains resolute in finding a solution that alleviates the impact of the landfill on the surrounding community.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Number of Welsh companies with unpaid bills hits 2024 high

THE NUMBER of Welsh companies with overdue invoices on their books reached a 2024 high in September, according to new research from R3, the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body.

R3’s analysis of data provided by Creditsafe shows that 18,360 Welsh businesses had unpaid invoices on their books last month – the highest monthly total of the year so far.

The number of Welsh firms with overdue invoices on their books rose by 3.7% in September 2024 when compared to September 2023’s total of 17,709.

Bethan Evans, Interim Chair of R3 in Wales, says: “The rise in businesses failing to pay their bills on time is a clear sign that economic recovery in Wales is still fragile.

“While some sectors may be bouncing back, many firms are still grappling with the ongoing effects of rising costs, wage pressures, and reduced consumer spending, which is making it harder for them to manage their cash flow effectively.”

The number of overdue invoices in Wales also reached a 2024 high in September, with a total 145,687 recorded. This is a slight yearly rise of 0.3% when compared to September 2023’s total of 145,273.

Bethan, who is a partner at Menzies LLP, continues: “Wales’s business debt burden has crept up every month since March and this is creating a growing financial pressure for businesses.

“Without a consistent improvement in payment practices or cash flow, many companies may find it increasingly

Man charged with sexual penetration of seven-week old baby

A 33-YEAR-OLD Pembrokeshire man has appeared before a District Judge charged with the sexual penetration of a seven-week old baby.

Christopher Phillips of Burton faces additional charges of assaulting, ill treating, neglecting and abandoning the baby; causing the child to suffer serious physical harm; assaulting the baby causing actual bodily harm and four charges of committing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Each offence is alleged to have taken place at an undisclosed location between December 27, 2020, and January 12, 2021.

This week Phillips appeared before District Judge Mark Layton sitting at Haverfordwest magistrates court on Tuesday, where he submitted no pleas to the charges.

Judge Layton declined jurisdiction and the case will now proceed at Swansea Crown Court on November 22.

Phillips was released on conditional bail, the conditions being that he lives and sleeps at his address in Burton, that he has no unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 18 and he has no contact with co-defendant Bryony O’Rourke nor any of the prosecution witnesses.

difficult to manage their debt and maintain operations, and we could see more and more businesses in Wales turning to a formal insolvency solution as a result.

“I would urge business owners and directors that are seeing their debt levels rise to seek advice as soon as they can from a qualified professional. Most R3 members in Wales will be happy to provide a free initial consultation so you can explain the challenges you’re facing, and help you understand the best course of action for you and your business.”

Bryony O’Rourke, 24, appeared before Judge Layton at a previous court hearing. She is accused of allowing the child to sustain ‘serious physical harm’ between December 19, 2020 and January 25, 2021, as a result of Phillips’ behaviour. She is further charged with causing the assault, ill treatment, neglect, or abandonment of a young child, causing its unnecessary suffering or injury.

O’Rourke, 24, from Llangwm, will appear alongside Phillips at Swansea Crown Court on November 22. She was released on conditional bail, the conditions being not to have any unsupervised contact with children under 18, not contact the prosecution witnesses, not contact Christopher Phillips, and to live and sleep at her home address.

Older people ‘left out in the cold’ by UK Budget cuts, says Age UK Cymru

FOLLOWING Wednesday’s Budget, elderly people across Wales are bracing for tougher times as Age UK Cymru warns of severe impacts from the removal of the Winter Fuel Payment for thousands of vulnerable individuals.

The charity expressed strong disappointment with the Chancellor’s announcements, stating the Budget failed to provide adequate support against soaring energy costs, which are already unaffordable for many older people on low incomes.

In a statement, Age UK Cymru cautioned that these cuts could leave numerous elderly individuals unable to afford necessary heating through the winter. A spokesperson for the charity said: “We’re hugely disappointed by the Chancellor’s lack of mitigating measures or financial support for the thousands of older people in Wales who will no longer receive the Winter Fuel Payment.”

The Winter Fuel Payment, a longstanding benefit helping older people manage heating expenses during the coldest months, has been either reduced or removed for many, leaving a significant gap in financial support.

Age UK Cymru is urging both the UK and Welsh governments to broaden eligibility for winter assistance, proposing that benefits recipients, including those on Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, and Carer’s Allowance, should qualify for Winter Fuel Payments.

While the charity presses for expanded eligibility, they also recognize that current criteria still risk leaving some of the most vulnerable without help. To address this, Age UK Cymru suggests the UK Government adopt data-matching techniques to more accurately identify

and automatically extend Winter Fuel Payments to low-income individuals in need.

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales

Responding to the Budget, Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, said: “A number of announcements in today’s budget are to be welcomed, including increased investment in public services, and additional funding

for the Welsh Government.

“However, it is disappointing that despite using the budget to raise an estimated £40bn, the Chancellor has decided not to reverse her decision to means test the Winter Fuel Payment, and did not announce any specific support to mitigate its impact.

“This decision will result in hundreds of thousands of older people missing out on crucial financial support, and

many older people have told me they are hugely worried about the effect this will have on their health and wellbeing.

“In my view, the Chancellor has missed an opportunity to demonstrate she has listened to the concerns raised by older people and stakeholders, and, more importantly, to take action to ensure people do not miss out on the support they need.”

Kurtz calls out MP over broken promise on agricultural property relief

WELSH Conservative Samuel Kurtz has taken Pembrokeshire’s Labour MP to task following the Chancellor’s announcement that the Labour Government will slash Agricultural Property Relief (APR)—a move the local MP had promised would not happen.

During the recent General Election, the Labour candidate publicly assured farmers at a husting event hosted by NFU Cymru, the Farmers’ Union of Wales, and Pembrokeshire Young Farmers’ Club, that APR would remain unchanged under a Labour Government. Similarly, Labour’s DEFRA Secretary told the Financial Times in November 2023, “we have no intention of changing APR,” reinforcing the pledge to farmers across the UK.

However, Wednesday’s Budget revealed a reversal on this promise, with the Chancellor announcing cuts to APR, potentially jeopardising thousands of family farms by increasing the Inheritance Tax burden. APR provides critical relief

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

on the transfer of agricultural property, allowing farming families to pass their established food producing business down to future generations.

Speaking after the Budget, Samuel Kurtz commented told The Pembrokeshire Herald: “Labour’s Budget was a string of broken promises, but none will be as harmful to hardworking farmers as their cut to Agricultural Property Relief.

“For the Labour candidate to assure farmers at the husting that no changes would be made to APR—and then have Labour go back on that—shows that the party will say whatever it takes to win votes.

“Trust in politicians is at an all-time low, and this U-turns only helps feed that mistrust. Decisions like this threaten the future of family farms and undermine the promises made to the communities Labour claims to represent.”

Refinery flaring event illuminates waterway

ON Wednesday evening (Oct 30), a dramatic flaring event at the Valero refinery in Pembroke lit up the Milford Haven waterway, sparking significant attention on social media. Hundreds of observers shared their experiences and posted striking photos, with one witness

comparing the flame’s appearance to “Elon Musk’s rocket flying upside down.”

The roar from the flare stack was heard as far afield as Letterston, Brawdy, Whitland, Carmarthen, and Haverfordwest, amplifying the visual spectacle. This

incident followed a scheduled maintenance shutdown at the refinery—a routine industry practice to ensure safety and operational efficiency. During such shutdowns, flaring is necessary to safely dispose of excess gases, often resulting in high flames visible from miles away.

Although the flaring was bigger than expected, a call to the refinery resulted in reassurances to this newspaper that everything was okay, and that such events are expected when restarting operations after a shutdown.

(Image: Alex Mathias)

Celtic Freeport progress despite Government mix-up

MILFORD HAVEN Port Authority was dealt a short-lived setback last week when the government indicated it would announce five new freeports in Wednesday’s budget.

In a Financial Times report published Friday, a government insider confirmed Downing Street was preparing to reveal five additional freeports across the UK, joining the twelve currently designated sites, including those at Milford Haven and Port Talbot, aimed at boosting economic growth and job creation. The report also suggested that Labour Leader Keir Starmer anticipated the new freeports would “bear this government’s stamp,” despite the policy’s origins in Conservative-led initiatives.

However, in a rapid reversal, the government clarified on Sunday that Wednesday’s budget will not announce new freeports. Instead, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to focus on plans and funding to make several existing designated freeports “operational,” moving closer to full functionality with approved tax and customs status.

Milford Haven, along with Port Talbot as part of the Celtic Freeport project, and Anglesey Freeport were designated as Wales’s first freeports in March 2024 but remain awaiting full operational status.

Currently, twelve freeports are scattered across the UK, including sites at Inverness, the Forth, Teesside, the Humber, Liverpool, Anglesey, Plymouth, the Solent, the Thames, and Felixstowe and Harwich. However, not all are classified as operational, as some await

final designation of specific tax and customs sites to activate intended benefits.

The government confirmed that the chancellor’s budget announcement will establish five new customs sites within existing freeports rather than launching entirely new locations. Ports at Inverness and the Humber will, for the first time, have designated customs sites, enabling the Humber site to become operational and eligible for tax reliefs and funding. Meanwhile, Inverness is still awaiting final sign-off. Three additional customs sites will be introduced at Liverpool, adding to the city’s existing infrastructure.

Freeports’ impact on UK economy Freeports, positioned strategically near

ports or airports, exempt imported goods from tariffs, a model aimed at spurring economic activity in trade, investment, and job creation. Businesses operating within these zones benefit from tax reliefs, such as property and employment incentives, meant to attract longterm investment. Originally active in the UK from 1984 until 2012, freeports were phased out by David Cameron’s government. Rishi Sunak reintroduced them as chancellor in response to Brexit, seeking to soften tariff impacts and establish a stable investment climate.

Since 2021, the UK has established eight freeports in England and two each in Wales and Scotland. However, challenges remain, as some officials and critics argue the zones

merely shift economic activity rather than creating net growth. Despite these critiques, industry leaders in Milford Haven view the Celtic Freeport as a green corridor that could foster local prosperity through inward investment and job creation.

The vision for Celtic Freeport

For the Port of Milford Haven, expectations remain high as it partners in the Celtic Freeport project. A spokesperson for the port commented: “We’re encouraged that the parliamentary process to formally designate the Celtic Freeport has begun. Subject to necessary approvals, we are hopeful the Celtic Freeport will be open for business by the end of November 2024.”

Tom Sawyer, Chief Executive of Milford Haven Port Authority, added, “The Celtic Freeport’s vision is to create a green investment corridor, helping to drive major inward investment, future skills development, and decarbonisation. For Pembrokeshire’s communities, that means new career routes, opportunities for business expansion, and greater local prosperity.”

While Downing Street’s recent miscommunication may not directly affect ongoing plans, its mixed signals underscore growing concerns over government coordination and the effectiveness of freeports in achieving their ambitious economic goals.

For the Port of Milford Haven, optimism remains high as they await the final approvals to make the Celtic Freeport a reality by the end of the year, contributing to a green and prosperous future for Pembrokeshire and beyond.

Seabed revitalised yet again – thanks to Neptune’s Army

NEPTUNE’S Army of Rubbish Cleaners (NARC) has completed yet another momentous year of ensuring the waters of Pembrokeshire remain as clean as possible, despite the ever-rising amount of commercial fishing tackle and rubbish that’s being deposited on its bed on a regular basis.

Last weekend seven hardy divers tackled Skomer, St Brides Bay and the Haven Waterway to retrieve yet another huge cache of rubbish, including rope, monofilament fishing line and a perfectly intact AA membership card dating back to 1988.

NARC was established 20 years ago by dedicated diver Dave Kennard.

“Like a lot of good things, the idea was born over a pint of beer in the local pub after a Boxing Day rugby match,” he jokes.

“I’d been doing beach cleans for around five years, as well as a bit of scuba diving, so I had an idea of some of the unnatural things that can be found on the seabed.”

NARC’s first official dive took place in April 2005 off Stackpole Quay when the diving team pulled up no fewer than 630 fishing weights which equated to 72 kilos of lead.

“But it isn’t the lead that’s a

problem,” said Dave. “It’s the monofilament lines, which take 600 years to biodegrade.”

As a result, a large number of NARC’s dives are concentrated around Pembrokeshire’s angling sites, including Martin’s Haven, Cresswell Quay and the Fishguard breakwater.

“Obviously as a diver, it’s always good to visit shipwrecks and undersea historical monuments, but when we reach the wrecks we come across loads of commercial fishing equipment and rope. You’d barely believe this, but on one dive alone we retrieved around 450 metres of rope. So lifestyle change is definitely something that should be addressed.”

Dave went on to say that other diving sites around Pembrokeshire

– including Hobbs Point in Pembroke Dock – regularly attract fly tippers.

“We once pulled up a car which had been dumped in the water, and on another occasion we had to lift out a washing machine drum using special lifting bags, similar in design to a balloon with straps on, which can be clipped onto the item. But what made this event particularly memorable was that when we pulled the drum out of the water, a conger eel swam out.

“On another occasion, the council lent us a skip to put all the rubbish inside. But it ended up being so full, the side had to be unwelded so that we could pull everything out.

“Whenever we dive off Hobbs Point, it never fails to amaze me what we’ll end up finding.”

Dave however, like all the other NARC divers, knows just how hazardous the waters of Pembrokeshire can be.

“Diving can always be dangerous, because what we’re doing is totally unnatural,” he said.

“Obviously we’re dependent on our diving equipment, but diving around Pembrokeshire can be difficult as a result of its tidal range. We have one of the largest tidal ranges in the UK, so as a result all our dives have to be very carefully planned.”

Each dive consists of an average of ten diving volunteers, allowing sufficient space on the boat for the diving gear as well and all the objects retrieved during their dives.

“I’ve been diving now for almost 25 years, and NARC has been going for two decades. Yet the seas around Pembrokeshire keep on giving me so much pleasure. And this is why it’s good to be able to do something back, by trying to clear the seabed of rubbish.

“I’d love to see NARC reach it’s 25th year, and now that we’ve been going for 20 years, I don’t see any reason why this can’t be done.

“Roll on 2025, when we can get out again and start removing more rubbish from our seabed.”

Riverside Shopping Centre confirms Winter Fair arrangements

RIVERSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE in Haverfordwest has provided an update on this year’s Christmas lights and fireworks, despite ongoing development around the town’s quay.

The Winter Fair is scheduled for November 30 in Haverfordwest Town Centre, running from 11:00am. However, construction continues around the quay as Pembrokeshire County Council works towards revamping the historic castle and museum site.

Riverside Shopping Centre manager Nigel Stopher said: “This year, the fireworks will be set off above Foley House instead of the castle due to regeneration works in town. The display will be slightly shifted to the left, offering a new vantage point.”

“Despite the construction, the Christmas lights will be switched on as usual, and by the time of the event, the amount of work near the riverside quay will have been reduced. This year’s Winter Fair will also feature additional activities,” he added.

The free community event aims to create a magical winter festival, blending history, music, food, games, and local spirit. It will conclude with the traditional Christmas light switch-on and a firework display.

One highlight of the Riverside Winter Fair will be the debut of ‘The Children of St Saviours’ – a cantata performed by

Haverfordwest High students. This new piece, inspired by the town’s history and recent finds at Western Quayside, tells the story of Haverfordwest’s past.

Adding to the festivities, a banner procession led by the South Wales Police Brass Band will showcase banners crafted by local primary students during autumn workshops.

Haverfordwest’s community board game café will host a pop-up event, inviting people to enjoy board games and socialise in a friendly setting.

Local artists Neil Musson and Jono

Retallick will present a model hot air balloon and a floating gallery, celebrating Haverfordwest’s residents. The project takes inspiration from embroidered tablecloths in the Haverfordwest Town Museum, bearing signatures of locals dating back to 1914.

MARKETS AND FOOD OFFERINGS

Haverhub will host a Winter Craft and Makers Market, while Castle Square transforms into a street food market curated by the Haverfordwest

Business Circle. Haverhub announced on Facebook: “As part of the Winter Fair, Haverhub is thrilled to host the Winter Craft and Makers Market from 11am to 5pm. Our hall will be brimming with local traders, festive gifts, and decorations. Interested stallholders (£25) can apply through our website link.”

The event promises a vibrant start to the festive season, drawing on community involvement and showcasing the town’s heritage amidst its transformation.

70% of UK workers are struggling to ‘switch off’ from work

SEVENTY percent of UK professionals are struggling to ‘switch off’ from work, an issue which is leaving many unable to relax and even lose sleep over.

With the Government’s plans to double down on professionals’ ‘right to switch off’ deferred to their Next Steps to Make Work Pay document, new research from global talent solutions firm Robert Walters highlights that professionals are regularly finding their personal time interrupted by work-related emails, tasks or calls.

Lucy Bisset, Director of Robert Walters North comments: “Not being able to fully ‘switch off’ from work can result in a variety of negative side effects for professionals. From diminished concentration and motivation to their productivity and engagement levels dropping off.

“All professionals should feel able to relax and unwind outside of work –without the concern of having to pick up work-related tasks.”

According to the Robert Walters poll, 29% of professionals state that not being able to log-off properly from work has directly resulted in them losing sleep –whilst a quarter cite being unable to relax or reset themselves for the next day.

A further 35% of professionals have struggled with increased stress or anxiety because of this.

Lucy comments: “Missing out on hours of sleep, being unable to fully relax as well as experiencing increased stress or anxiety can pose a huge threat to professional’s ability to work, even carrying out regular tasks and activities. Not to mention, maintaining a satisfactory work-life balance.”

A key trigger of not being able to switch-off from work is the mounting pressure on professionals to be ‘always available’ – with 67% of workers across all professional services industries stating that this pressure has increased over the past 12 months.

76% admit to checking-in on workrelated emails or calls when not in the office and a further fifth stating that their employer ‘frequently’ contacts them outside of office hours.

Lucy comments: “Over recent years the boom of workplace tech like Teams and Slack has meant that teams can be more easily tracked and contacted by their managers, whilst the rise of hybrid/remote working has caused professionals to literally bring work home with them.

“An ‘always online’ workplace culture contributes to the blurring of lines between office hours and personal time as well as an increasingly unrealistic expectation for greater availability. This is something that if left unchecked can rapidly lead to increased cases of burnout across workforces.”

Indeed, according to further research from Robert Walters’ Benefits Guide, 86% of UK companies have hybridworking options, while a further 55% have the option of flexible working hours. However, there is some variation between industries – for example, professionals working in financial services (93%) and technology (87%) are more likely to have hybrid-working options than engineering professionals (64%).

Whilst professionals in general management are 19% more likely to have flexible working hours than those

MIKE EDWARDS

MISTS, mellow fruitfulness, bloody Keats never mentions the bloody rain hammering down like rivets from on high!

Yes, our autumn walking season has begun. No sooner did the clocks fall back and the evenings get dark than my beloved insisted we set about tripping over roots and standing in turds for our health. The fresh air, she alleges, does us both good.

Mitzi the Mutt enjoys walking in the gloom. As a black dog, an unlit muddy path offers countless possibilities for wandering off while two people in - ahem - late middle age blunder around calling to her.

As always, I am cautious on such moonlit treks. It’s not the snuffling of our native wildlife in the twilight I’m worried about. It’s the sudden thwack to the back of my fragile skull from a branch or my wife’s sturdy torch. Honestly, when a mobile phone light emits enough candlepower to light up the dark side of the moon, I cannot fathom why my little homicidal maniac insists on carrying the sort of torch nightwatchmen used to carry in The Sweeney.

The other evening, my darlingest one and I went for a wander along the riverside in Haverfordwest. The harvest moon shone like a streetlamp, making the damp tarmac path glisten like polished lead. The view across the reed beds was spoiled only by the occasional floating bin bag full of rubbish and the chink of light off a supermarket trolley.

in tax, legal and compliance (65% vs. 46%).

Lucy comments: “Professionals in traditionally on-site roles often have a clear boundary between work and personal life – being able to ‘clock off’ when they finish for the day.

“Something which becomes more blurred for those working from home. With many professionals who have a hybrid-working schedule literally bringing work home with them 2-3 days out of the week.”

What is the antidote?

When asked about what employers could do to help them to switch off, twofifths of professionals suggested ‘setting realistic deadlines’ and over a quarter (27%) said putting a limit on out-of-office contact.

Other strategies mentioned were boosting wellbeing incentives (16%) and encouraging regular breaks throughout the working day (16%).

Lucy comments: “Employers who verge on creating a ‘zombie workforce’ put employee productivity, engagement and satisfaction levels on the line. This could also directly lead to a rise in cases of absenteeism throughout their organisation.

“This issue must be addressed head on, by establishing a solid foundation of achievable deadlines, manageable workloads along with clear boundaries between work and personal time – for both those working from the office and at home. Once this groundwork is set, additional improvements like enhanced wellbeing incentives can be introduced.”

On such a pleasant evening, my beloved and I were surprised to be almost totally alone. Perhaps, I thought, we were too early for the practitioners of alfresco nooky to bounce pinkly out of the undergrowth.

Mitzi, who we’d let off the lead to have a wee, wandered off.

Shortly after she did so, the strong breeze, which kept the offensive pong of the river out of our nostrils, blew the clouds that had been gathering to the north over our heads.

Rain began to fall. It was purposeful rain, rain that had decided it liked it here and was not going to move any time soon. My wife, possibly worried about melting, called the dog. Nothing happened.

“Oh Mike,” she said, “what if Mitzi gets lost?”

The darkness is sometimes my friend. However, I cut short my happy reverie to say the only thing a short-sighted fool who’d forgotten his glasses could say.

“I’ll go looking for her. You stay here in case she comes back.”

I walked along the path, waving my phone, which illuminated the raindrops but very little else. I probed every shadow, gently cursing that blasted hound. After ten minutes of my soggy search, the whole area came alight. The missus had turned on her lightsabre.

“Mike!” I heard a distant shout, “I’ve got Mitzi.”

I arrived, bedraggled, soaked, and shivering back by my wife’s side, and noticed she and the hound were conspicuously un-drenched.

“You’ll never guess where she was?” My darling trilled as she shone her torch towards a small shelter.

“Isn’t she a clever dog?” A large drop of water slid off the end of my nose. The Mutt seemed to snigger softly at me. I mouthed a few silent oaths. Sometimes, the darkness is my friend.

pembrokeshire’s halloween fun

PEMBROKESHIRE residents turned out in droves for Halloween on Tuesday (Oct 31), with the community coming together to celebrate in festive spirit. We received over 220 photos from locals, capturing the joyful scenes that made Halloween one to remember.

Costumes ranged from classic witches and ghosts to scary clowns and popular film characters. Adults joined in with their children, donning capes and creative face paint, proving that Halloween fun has no age limit.

In Haverfordwest’s Cashfields Estate, residents went above and beyond, decking out streets and gardens with lights, eerie decorations, and caution tape, creating an ideal haunt for trick-ortreaters.

By the end of the night, children all over Pembrokeshire were proudly clutching bags brimming with sweets, grinning from ear to ear—a Halloween that will surely be talked about for years to come.

Tenby’s Bridge Street named most envy-inducing street in UK

TENBY’S Bridge Street has been crowned the most envy-inducing street in the UK, according to new research.

A survey of 1,000 respondents ranked streets across the country based on appearance, family appeal, and perceived property value. Bridge Street in Tenby topped the list, with nearly one-third of respondents saying they’d feel envious if their friends lived there.

Located along the coast, Bridge Street offers picturesque beach views, making it the second-best ranked street for raising a family, according to participants.

“Tenby’s reputation for stunning beaches and castle walls makes it no surprise that people feel envious of the coastal views and community

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

atmosphere,” said a spokesperson from SellHouseFast.co.uk, which commissioned the survey.

Ali Richards, an estate agent from eXp, explained Tenby’s appeal: “Tenby is a competitive housing market due to its prime coastal location in Wales. It attracts everyone from retirees to investors purchasing second homes or holiday rentals.

“Demand is especially strong during summer when tourism peaks, leading to properties often selling quickly and sometimes above the asking price. Tenby’s proximity to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and its outdoor appeal further enhance its desirability.”

Joshua’s fight for life: A Crymych man’s Burkitt’s Lymphoma battle

BETHAN CARTER-HEWINS is appealing for support in a life-saving fundraiser for her partner, Joshua, who faces a battle against Burkitt’s Lymphoma – a rare, aggressive form of cancer. Diagnosed in June following a transplant, Joshua’s journey has been fraught with hardships.

While intensive chemotherapy initially provided hope, a scan on Wednesday revealed devastating

news: the treatment is ineffective, and the cancer has spread further. The NHS consultants have offered some alternative treatment suggestions, but, tragically, Joshua is not eligible for these options.

Desperate to explore every avenue, Bethan and Joshua have discovered two potential treatments that could help, but they come at a steep price, estimated to be at least £50,000 and potentially even more. With limited time

and resources, they are now turning to the community for assistance.

Bethan writes, “We are reaching out to anyone able to help, no matter the amount. Any donation would be a lifeline in this fight, a fight we will not give up.”

Supporters can contribute to this GoFundMe to help provide Joshua with his last sliver of hope.

Join the fight. Help Joshua beat Burkitt’s Lymphoma.

26 local charities receive £25,000 thanks to Camrose Vintage Working Day

No fewer than twenty-six local charities have benefited by a hefty £25,000 thanks to the 37th Camrose Vintage Working Day that took place earlier this summer.

This year’s total means that just over £285,000 has been donated to local charities since the Camrose Vintage Working Day show was first established.

The charities which received donations following this year’s show are: Adam’s Bucketful of Hope Cancer Support Centre, Blood Bikes Wales, Camrose and Roch Playgroup, Cardiac Risk in the Young, Cystic Fibrosis Trust, The DPJ Foundation, Erb’s Palsy Group CIO, Lower Treginnis – Farms for City Children, Hope MS Therapy Centre, Keyston YFC (for their chosen charity of the year), The Maisie Moo Foundation, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity, Parkinson’s UK Pembrokeshire, Pembrokeshire

Young Onset Dementia, Prostate Cymru, RNLI, Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity, Shalom House Palliative Care Cenre, The Food Story, Ty Olwen Hospice Trust, Wales Air Ambulance and Withybush

General Hospital – Hywel Dda Health Charities, Stroke Rehab Unit, Asttma Respiratory Team Specialist Nurses, Chemotherapy Day Unit – Wig Clinic.

Art Day celebrates Cosheston’s history

AN art day at Cosheston Village Hall last week drew a crowd of fifty attendees, marking the final event in a series funded by the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant. The gathering, held on Saturday (Oct 19), celebrated the village’s history and creativity.

The event showcased the work of Cosheston School pupils, who participated in an art project led by local artist Fran Evans. Their pieces reflected the rich heritage of the Cleddau estuary, where shipbuilding thrived during the 19th century at sites like Cantons Yard (Bank Farm) and The Chemicals near Jenkins Point, Cosheston.

Attendees enjoyed an interactive art afternoon, creating a paper tile montage with old photographs and maps, accompanied by tea and Welsh cakes.

The tiles will be combined to form a historical banner for the village, capturing local landmarks and memories. Special thanks were extended to organisers Jane Mason and Angela Lowder and the many volunteers who contributed to the event.

The art day concluded two years of dedicated work by the Cosheston History Group Committee, which has produced a book, a trails leaflet, and hosted four social events exploring various aspects of local history. “The project has been very successful, creating a sense of place for residents and visitors alike,” said Mrs. Janet Howell, Chair of the Cosheston History Project. “We hope to continue our work, offering insight into our village’s background and inviting new members to join us.”

Our picture shows Camrose Vintage Working Day chairman, Andrew James, together with some of the charity represnetatives who attended last weekend’s presentation ceremony. The 38th Camrose Vintage Working Day will take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

Tenby lifeboatman becomes Deputy Coxswain

TENBY lifeboatman Rob Garland has recently achieved a significant career milestone, qualifying as a Deputy Coxswain after an intensive training and assessment program both locally at Tenby and Angle, as well as at the RNLI College in Poole.

Rob follows in the footsteps of a proud family tradition of service with the RNLI. His great-grandfather, Thomas Benjamin Richards, and great-uncle, Josh Richards, both served as station Coxswains, while his other greatuncles, Stanley and Reggie Richards, and his grandfather, Peter Richards, all served as crew members. Collectively, his family has contributed an impressive 200 years of service to the RNLI.

Rob is pictured receiving congratulations from Marc Gibbons, RNLI trainer and assessor, alongside Coxswain Lisa Viggers.

Solva Surgery to welcome St Davids patients and undergoes expansion

SOLVA SURGERY will soon welcome an influx of patients from St David’s Surgery following the termination of the contract at the St David’s site earlier this year. The majority of registered patients will be transferred by the end of this week, which will significantly boost patient numbers at the Solva facility.

The transfer comes with staffing expansions, combining teams from both surgeries into a strengthened roster that includes three salaried GPs, five registered nurses, two Health Care Support Workers, and an enlarged administrative staff. Regular support will continue from GP locums to meet increased demand.

To accommodate the larger patient base, Solva Surgery will undergo internal modifications in the coming weeks. Plans include converting underutilized rooms into new consultation and treatment spaces and relocating office spaces

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

to the first floor. Practice Manager Jayne Williams said: “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused by these essential works, which are for the benefit of all patients.”

From 1 November 2024, Solva Surgery will adopt the new name Meddygfa Penrhyn / Peninsula Practice to better represent the expanded community it serves. This change follows work with the Peninsula Working Group, involving Solva Community Council, St David’s City Council, and representatives from Llanrhian and Brawdy community councils.

“Thank you for your continued support for the team at Solva Surgery. We look forward to welcoming new patients and staff joining our team,” Williams added.

Net Zero Industry Wales takes bold steps to accelerate the nation’s net zero journey

THE independent body which supports Welsh industry on the delivery of net zero – Net Zero Industry Wales (NZIW) – is entering a new chapter to help accelerate the decarbonisation of the nation.

This bold new phase comes just over two years after the not-for-profit body was established in 2022.

NZIW’s independent guidance and support empowers Welsh businesses to build greener futures, using grassroots collaboration to help identify and overcome barriers on decarbonisation projects, from funding pressures to capacity limitations.

To date, NZIW has put collaborative partnerships front and centre, supporting RWE in delivering £19 million of grant funding for the South Wales Industrial Cluster deployment project, along with the other project partners. It is also supporting the North East Wales Industrial Decarbonisation Cluster (NEWID) in developing an industrial decarbonisation plan for North-East Wales, which is set to be published in early 2025.

Now, NZIW will tackle the challenge of resource constraints impacting the approval process on decarbonisation projects, through a brand-new agreement with Natural Resources Wales (NRW), revealed earlier this month.

With this new contract in place, NZIW will support NRW in expediting the decision-making process through provision of additional resource and specialist expertise, providing confidence to investors and developers, whilst prioritising the health of communities and the natural environment. Some of the key objectives from the contract includes reducing the time taken for developers to understand what is required of them

from regulators alongside providing support that addresses skill shortages, manages backlogs and provides specialist capability for complex and novel projects.

Sarah Jennings, Executive Director of Communications, Customer and Commercial at NRW, said: “Helping Wales achieve its net zero goal is one of our most important priorities as we work to deliver our vision for a land where nature and people thrive together.

“Our new agreement with NZIW will ensure that NRW has the capacity to address the resource issues which have impacted our ability to respond quickly to challenges in the past.

“We look forward to working closely with NZIW to assist our Welsh industries as they deliver a decarbonised future.”

Powering these sustainable

be advising clients across energy transition, climate and all aspects of sustainability.

Speaking on her new role, Michelle said: “NZIW’s mission to make Wales the country of choice for all things sustainable really struck a chord with me, and so I am delighted to be taking up the position of Chair of the Board. I look forward to working closely with colleagues and partners towards a lowcarbon industrial future for Wales and helping Wales secure the investment it needs and deserves.”

Ben Burggraaf, CEO of NZIW, said: “Our new contract with NRW is a key example of the partnerships that NZIW develops to bridge the gap between the public and private sector. If we want to truly address and overcome barriers to decarbonising Welsh industry, then it is vital to develop solutions, through the power of collaboration that are aligned with the Wellbeing of Future Generation Act and the goals that are set within this act.

solutions, alongside the NZIW CEO, Ben Burggraaf, are new team members Stuart McMillan and Justin Davis following their appointment as Membership Services Manager and Research and Projects Manager, respectively.

Stuart and Justin will continue to play a vital role in driving collaboration across Wales, assisting on the management of NZIW-led projects whilst supporting members (including those leading the Industrial Clusters — Associated British Ports, RWE and The Royal Mint) with project inception, funding applications and the delivery of decarbonisation projects.

Working closely with the team is new Chair of the NZIW Board, Michelle T. Davies, who brings a wealth of expertise from her role as Global Head of Sustainability at EY and will

“NZIW has been making new strides to accelerate the ways in which we can support a thriving and sustainable industry in Wales and having Michelle, Stuart and Justin join us on that journey will catalyse and power our progression towards our mission to make Wales the country of choice for producing sustainable products and services.

“As we approach the end of 2024, we are looking forward to supporting the establishment of industry led working groups in hydrogen, transmission and distribution. Plus, we’ll be launching our second EmpowerCymru conference — aimed at bringing together industries, investors, public sector organisations and thoughtleaders to help us mobilise Wales on its journey to net zero.”

Car-free travel route between St Dogmaels and Poppit Sands could be built

A CONSULTATION on a scheme which could see a shared use path and boardwalk in the Pembrokeshire village of St Dogmaels, which would create an active travel link to Poppit Sands beach, has been launched.

A Pembrokeshire County Council online public consultation, following a recent drop-in session at St Dogmaels Memorial Hall is running up to midnight on November 18.

In supporting statement, Pembrokeshire County Council said: “St Dogmaels is one of the more popular tourist destinations within Pembrokeshire with locals and visitors visiting the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path.

“The village has grown around its historic routes and is characterised by narrow roads, often with limited footways for pedestrians. Parking is a challenge, with most residents parking on street or in limited parking areas through the village.

“This can lead to additional pressures on the network in terms of traffic flow and pinch-points additionally pedestrian movements throughout the village are constrained by a lack of sufficient infrastructure.”

It says the proposal aims to:

footprint, pollution and congestion

• Create a safe Active Travel Link between St Dogmaels and Poppit Sands

• Improve road safety for pedestrians and cyclists

• Encourage socially inclusive active travel for all types of journeys including tourism and leisure

• Reduce the levels of car dependency, reducing carbon

• Improve the environment, health and social wellbeing of the community

As part of proposed improvements, the online survey is seeking public views on the creation of an approximately 645 metre Shared Use Path – designed to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists

– along High Street, Feidr Fawr and Pilot Street (B4546), described as the purple route, and an approximately 460

metre Shared Use Path connecting Feidr Fach footway with a new Shared Use Path, and a counter lever boardwalk onto Pilot Street, the preferred red route.

Following on from the consultation period, the final preferred option(s) will be identified.

The proposals are available to view on the council’s website. Hard copies are available at County Hall and through your local county councillor.

Coastguards assist injured walker near Traeth Llyfn Beach

COASTGUARDS were called to aid a person who sustained an ankle injury on the coastal path near Traeth Llyfn Beach on Sunday (Oct 27).

HM Coastguard teams from Fishguard and St Davids responded to the incident, providing immediate care to the injured individual before transporting them to a family vehicle for further travel to the hospital.

In a Facebook post, HM Coastguard Fishguard said: “Team tasked alongside HM Coastguard – St Davids to a casualty with an ankle injury on the coastal path above Traeth Llyfn Beach.

“The teams were quickly on scene and able to provide casualty care before transferring the casualty to the family car for transport to hospital.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Local opticians support monthly charity event providing eye care advice

A MULTI-AWARD-winning optometry practice in Haverfordwest is participating in a new monthly charity event offering vital support to the local community.

The first event took place at the Haverhub, Quay Street, on Thursday 17 October, with further events running monthly until March 2025.

The purpose of the event is to provide a free meal, a warm space and an opportunity to socialise, while also offering advice and support to attendees. Participants will also learn how to prepare nutritious meals on a small budget through cooking demonstrations and workshops. Designed to assist local people during the colder months, the event will provide essential resources in a welcoming environment.

Specsavers Haverfordwest will host a stand offering free spectacle repairs, cleaning and general MOTs. A variety of other organisations, including Lifepoint Pembs, VC Gallery and Pure West Radio, will also take part, providing life skills and craft workshops, nutritional cooking demonstrations and a ‘swap shop’ for clothing and toiletries. Local charities and service providers such as the NHS, Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS) and Connect Pembs will be present to offer advice and signposting to additional resources.

Dani Thomas-Turner, administration assistant at Specsavers Haverfordwest and a member of Haverfordwest Town Council, has played a key role in organising the event, alongside her husband Haverfordwest Town Councillor Randell Thomas-Turner.

Explaining the motivation behind it, Mrs Thomas-Turner, says: “We wanted to bring people together over the winter months to offer support, warmth and a sense of community. There are many people struggling in the current financial climate and this event is designed to help.

Tom

“By providing a free meal, a warm space to socialise and advice on how to prepare nutritious meals on a budget, we hope to give people the tools and support they need during these challenging times.”

Retail director, Wayne Jones, says:

“We are honoured to support this community-driven charity event as part of our commitment to empowering lives through enhanced perception. By

offering free spectacle repairs and expert advice, we aim to spark conversations that go beyond practical services, creating meaningful connections and ensuring that every person in Haverfordwest feels supported and valued. Together, we can break down barriers and embrace the extraordinary potential within each individual.”

Pure West Radio will promote the event on air, interview attendees and help spread the word about the services available. In the coming months, organisers hope to replenish the local food bank table and provide attendees

with meal kits containing ingredients and recipes to help them prepare nutritious meals at home.

Specsavers Haverfordwest is open seven days a week. To find out more information about Specsavers in Haverfordwest, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit https://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.

Sinclair editor@herald.email

National Botanic Garden of Wales Fair

THE National Botanic Garden of Wales Antiques Fair and Vintage Market returns to the Gardens with some rare Welsh Stick chairs

Exciting news that the much loved National Botanic Garden of Wales Antiques Fair and Vintage market is returning to the Gardens on Saturday 9 th and Sunday 10 th November 2024 with the same quality stands set in this spectacular venue.

Nestling into the Carmarthenshire countryside ,on the outskirts of Carmarthen and just 15 minutes away from the end of the M4, it’s conveniently situated.

The weekend of antiques, is set to be a busy , Showcasing a wonderful variety of quality antiques and collectables to suit all tastes and budgets, these popular fairs have a friendly and vibrant atmosphere.

Fans of classic antiques should make their way to the various Garden venues – including the Great Glasshouse - for displays of Welsh art and pottery, quality jewellery and outstanding militaria collections and impressive displays of quality furniture. Step next door to Ty Melyn, the Regency house and discover displays of quality antique furniture, Welsh textiles,and a superb array of books, art glass, jewellery and silver.plus displays of vintage clothes and accessories. Tucked away beside the Millenium Courtyard is the large marquee where you will find a large range of militaria art glass and some vintage delights and architectural gardinalia.

The recently transformed Theatr

of furniture through the centuries, including ladderbacks, rustic willow furniture and Windsor chairs. However s stick chair begins with a plank of wood for the seat. All the remaining parts, such as the legs, sticks and arms are connected to the seat with round –not square – joinery. Stick chairs were made with simple tools and readily available materials.

Visual Record” by a local couple Tim and Betsan Bowen. This gorgeously photographed book shows many of the details and forms of 31 old chairs.

Botanica will be exhibiting old favourites such as silverware and collection of Moorcroft , art and treen plus collections of quality welsh furniture and textiles and French brocante.

Millennium Courtyard will be filled with a Vintage market housing smaller marquees displaying vintage toys,clothing, retro and upcycled furniture ,gardinalia and tools.There will also be a vintage/ mid century theme in the Apothecary room.

The fair has had a reputation for showcasing Welsh areas of collecting including Welsh pottery, welsh blankets,Welsh art and furniture. Again not to disappoint ,Chapellane Antiques will be standing in theatre Botannica with their impressive collection of welsh textiles, pottery and furniture.

From Welsh child’s chairs,rare stick chairs , milking stools to much larger pieces including dressers and linen press cupboards. They specialised in Welsh stick chairs and will be bringing a selection of these stunning chairs to the fair.

Stick chairs are folk furniture that’s made by amateur woodworkers for their own use – or to sell to neighbours in their village. Unlike the formal chairs made by professional artisans (or in a factory) in the cities, stick chairs were built using local materials with simple joints and were not connected to a particular furniture style (like Queen Anne) or a period in time.

They are also very comfortable at the dinner table or by the fireside.

The term “stick chair” has been applied to lots of different kinds

Most cultures have some sort of seating furniture that qualifies as a stick chair, though these folk pieces have long been nearly invisible to furniture scholars, auction houses and collectors. In the West, stick chairs appear in almost every culture, though they seem to be more common in cultures that had contact with the Vikings.

The first known image of a stick chair comes from Wales, where there a long history of making this kind of chair. The “Laws of Hywel Dda,” a Welsh book of laws from the late 12th or middle 13th century, shows a judge sitting on a chair that clearly has a plank seat with legs and uprights mortised into the seat.

Centuries later, the similar Windsor chair form emerged in England in the early part of the 18th century. Stick chairs share a lot in common with Windsor chairs, especially in the way their parts were joined together. But there are important differences.

Windsor chairs are typically made by professional chairmakers or in a factory – not by amateurs. Though there are “folk Windsors” out there that were made by amateurs (and could easily be called stick chairs) they are rare. Many woodworkers like to think of stick chairs as “primitive Windsors,” but that’s a disservice to stick chairs as they have their own distinct history and design.

The first book dedicated to stick chairs is “Welsh Stick Chairs” by John Brown (1932-2008).

Another fantastic source of information and inspiration comes from the book: “The Welsh Stick Chair: A

Welsh pottery will be on display including Llanelli, Swansea and Ewenny. Welsh pottery has also been keenly collected, especially rare examples .Alistair and Helen Crawford have built up a reputation of having an impressive stand that showcases rare Llanelli Pottery including the coveted Cockerel plates , One important collection being showcased will be a stunning collection of Wemyss ware. Helen and Alistair Crawford also have a wealth of knowledge on the subject of Wemyss ware.Their impressive collection , includes a rare gigantic tyg, a two handled drinking vessel decorated with cabbage roses and many other rare pieces.

Richard Bebb’s collection of Welsh artists is impressive and a stand not to be missed.

Amongst the quality stands, will be a selection of militaria stands, displaying some very unusual items from the past including rare medals, military swords and vintage fire arms. Displays of Victorian linen, vintage clothes, samplers , quality jewellery and silver, an appealing display of nostalgic interior designs; plus rare paperweights collections, Royal Worcester, Moorcroft and a superb collection of blue and white pottery, can all be found at the fair.

The fair opens at 10am and closes at 4.00pm on both days

Admission is £12 but this allows admission to the fair on both days and a further 5 days free entrance to the Garden .Dogs are now welcome that weekend but sadly not in the Glasshouse

* For more information about the fairs contact Brita Rogers telephone: 01267 220260 Mobile 07790 293367 or visit www.derwenantiques.co.uk or on FB and instagram

Generation Z

A truck overturns in a quiet town, scattering a load no one would want spread anywhere—a classic setup for a zombie story. This TV series, directed by Ben Wheatley, kicks off with this chaotic twist, soon turning into a gory adventure.

The first infected aren’t the usual youthful zombies; they’re elderly residents from two local care homes. Cecily (Sue Johnston) is the initial case from one, and her partner Frank (Paul Bentall) from the other. Instead of becoming frail, the infection revitalizes them. These zombies can think, talk, and strategize as they prowl the nearby forest in packs, targeting unsuspecting hikers, cyclists, dog owners, and even dogs. Bentall, in a particularly wild scene, uses a dog as a makeshift weapon.

Meanwhile, the young

residents are preoccupied with their own lives—partying, dealing with crushes, and buying drugs from a former activist named Morgan (Robert Lindsay), who has a marijuana farm and a room filled with surveillance equipment. When the zombie chaos erupts, Morgan becomes an unlikely ally, especially when Kelly (Buket Kömür) narrowly escapes her zombie grandmother’s bite, only for her unrequited crush Stef (Lewis Gribben) to “kill” the undead nan with a crossbow.

The young crew includes Kelly, her ex Charlie (Jay Lycurgo), his sister Billy (Ava Hinds-Jones), and the witty Finn (Viola Prettejohn), who stands out as a more developed character among them. Together, they scramble for a cure as the elderly

zombies wreak havoc, refusing to hold back, even against their grandkids. Their mantra? “Why shouldn’t I have what I want?”

If zombie stories mirror society, this one cleverly reflects issues like Brexit, with the elderly zombies embodying a selfish impulse to turn back time, dismissing the impact on the younger generation. The plot also echoes COVID with quarantines, delayed respirators, and students forced to take A-levels amid the chaos.

While the story drifts into distracting subplots and conspiracy theories that feel unnecessary, the opening and closing episodes stay strong, making it worthwhile. The series doesn’t hold back on satire, sometimes becoming obvious with its messaging, but it’s still a fun and gory ride. At least, it’s more entertaining than Brexit.

This year’s horror season brought a fresh wave of independent films for genre enthusiasts to devour, with He Never Left by director James Morris emerging as one of the more anticipated releases. Known for his work on The Witching Season, Morris delivers another tale steeped in suspense, paranoia, and gritty undertones. Released by Witching Season Films, the movie has garnered interest among horror fans drawn to its grim storyline and strong performances.

The plot follows a man seeking refuge in a rundown motel after accidentally killing someone, with his ex-girlfriend offering him a room to hide from the escalating manhunt. As he begins to lose his grip on reality, he suspects sinister activities in the adjacent room, only to learn of the legend of the Pale Face Killer—a killer reportedly tied to the very motel where he’s trying to stay out of sight. What follows is a psychological

descent, blending elements of survival, folklore, and mystery.

He Never Left stands out for its engaging storyline and is bolstered by a solid performance from lead actor Colin Cunningham. Cunningham, known for his roles in Preacher and Blood Drive, captivates as a man on the brink of collapse, conveying a gradual mental breakdown that gives the film much of its intensity. Supporting actors Jessica Staples and David E. McMahon add depth, rounding out a cast that raises the film above many indie productions.

The film’s story, while intriguing, occasionally stumbles under the weight of multiple plot threads and uneven editing.

The main storyline follows the protagonist as he confronts his dark suspicions about his neighbors, but a secondary arc involving detectives hunting him down feels somewhat detached. Some viewers may find the editing distracts from the film’s potential, which could

have benefited from a more streamlined approach that leans into the lead character’s unraveling psyche and his unsettling discoveries.

Despite these narrative hurdles, He Never Left doesn’t skimp on the gore, offering effective practical effects that add to the atmosphere. Although the death scenes aren’t particularly memorable, they enhance the film’s moody, dread-laden tone. The film’s balance of suspense and horror will likely satisfy fans eager for an indie thriller with a strong concept, though it may not appeal to viewers seeking a more polished or conventional horror experience.

With a captivating premise and commendable performances, He Never Left is an engaging entry in the indie horror scene. It may not reach the heights of Morris’s earlier works, but for those looking for psychological tension and atmospheric storytelling, this film is well worth the watch.

Spooky adventures and Halloween fun at Oriel y Parc

FAMILIES are invited to dive into some spine-tingling Halloween fun at Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre in St Davids this half-term.

With an exciting blend of puzzlesolving adventures and hands-on creative activities, the action-packed family programme promises a hauntingly good time for all, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the spooky season.

For those brave enough to set sail, a Ghost Ship Trail will run from Saturday 19 October to Sunday 3 November, inviting families on an unforgettable adventure. Perfect for curious young explorers eager to put their problem-solving skills to the test, the trail invites children to step aboard a mysterious ghost ship, where they’ll unlock treasure boxes to recover the sailors’ lost possessions. Taking part in this eerie, fun-filled experience costs just £4 per child, with a special prize for anyone who completes the challenge.

Younger visitors with a creative streak can look forward to the Spooky Halloween Lanterns Workshop on Wednesday 30 October from 11am to 3pm. During this drop-in session, children will have the chance to design

and decorate their own lantern, adding a unique twist to their Halloween celebrations. At just £4 per child, they will leave with a beautifully crafted lantern, perfect for lighting up the darker nights.

In addition to the Halloween activities, Oriel y Parc serves as the

perfect hub for anyone looking to explore the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park over half-term. The centre offers helpful advice on places to stay, things to do, and recommended walks, making it an ideal starting point for your adventures. Visitors can also enjoy a range of art exhibitions featuring local

and national artists, as well as a gift shop that provides a chance to find the perfect keepsake or unique handcrafted gift.

Further information about winter activities and events at Oriel y Parc can be found at www.orielyparc.co.uk.

MARVEL RIVALS, my dear friends, is like jumping headfirst into a psychedelic kaleidoscope of superhero splendor!

It’s a carnival of color and flashing lights where all your favorite Marvel beings spring to life, right before your bewildered eyes. The visuals? Stunning, as if a cosmic brush has painted each character with meticulous attention, while the environments practically pulsate with vibrancy, as if they’re throbbing with life itself!

Now, let’s talk combat, eh? It’s like a gladiatorial dance, each character throwing out unique abilities like spells cast by mystical wizards, urging you to leap from one character to another, trying out different ‘play styles’ like costumes in a dressing

room of cosmic proportions! But, and here’s the rub, it can get a bit monotonous, like when you’ve had one too many cups of tea in the same old cup. There’s flair, sure, but the depth’s a bit wanting. You start to feel it’s more a routine than a revolution, if you know what I mean.

Then there’s the multiplayer bit—playing with friends? Oh, it’s smashing, a proper laugh. Co-op missions make you feel like you’re rallying the troops for a little heroic chaos. But— and this is a right little ‘but’—the matchmaking can be, shall we say, temperamental. Sometimes you’re left twiddling your thumbs, waiting to join a game as if you’re queuing for some celestial ride that never quite arrives.

And the story? It’s a comforting yarn, peppered with

familiar faces and witty quips, a bit like watching a Marvel movie you’ve seen a dozen times but still enjoy. Yet, even with all the charm, you might feel it’s a touch predictable, like a ‘guess the next bit’ quiz where you always get it right.

So, what’s the final verdict? Marvel Rivals is a vibrant escapade into the superhero realm—loads of fun, visually delightful, and brimming with cooperative joy, especially with your mates by your side. But beware, my dear players, because once that initial high wears off, it can start feeling a tad... shallow. Still, for Marvel devotees and co-op comrades alike, it’s worth a go—just remember to savor the spectacle without expecting it to be your new endless universe.

HOROSCOPES

Watch for a chance meeting that will lead to a very intriguing discussion. This, in turn, will inspire the generation of some great ideas. Make some notes so you don’t forget.

CANCER

Between the internal discussion you have going on and all the input you’re getting from the

but you might not have all the resources you need to get the job done. You’ll have to do what great cooks sometimes do when they don’t have all the ingredients they need: scale things down. Instead of trying to help many folks, just pick one or two. Find someone who could use a smile, a few extra dollars, or some of your goodwill. Make a difference in one person’s life, and you’ll make a difference in your own.

VIRGO

You’re good with the details now, and any logic problems are a total snap. When it comes to looking at the overall scenario at work, in a relationship, or financially, you’re not quite as on top of it at the moment. Try consciously to do your best with this big-picture stuff now. It’s quite possible you’re not seeing the forest for the trees.

LIBRA

A lighthearted chat may suddenly take a deeper turn now. You’re in a sharing mode, and that includes some emotions you don’t generally talk to anyone about. Who you share them with could be rather surprising as well, and the connection you make or deepen could be unexpectedly sweet. The intensity might even have some romantic overtones, but where you take it is up to you. Abandoning your boundaries could be premature.

SCORPIO

A little part of the big picture you’re not taking into consideration right now could really trip you up. Read the fine print, watch out for hidden fees, check carefully between the lines, and be hyper vigilant about the seemingly insignificant stuff. If it’s an interpersonal situation, one of your best friends is waiting to help you see the angle you’re missing.

SAGITTARIUS

A ghost from the past may make an appearance just as you’re getting comfortable with things. Adding your own collision of emotions on top of it equals a fairly overwhelming situation. It’s time to rely on your support system of family, friends, and maybe a favorite coworker. You may feel a little out of control, but it’s only temporary, and your people will help ground you.

CAPRICORN

Most people respond to a bad situation by looking at the bright side. You’re smart enough to know when it makes more sense to face reality. Get rid of the things that are muddying the waters and clouding your thoughts. These might include unsolicited advice, excess chatter, or unnecessary information. Let your mantra be “simplify, simplify, simplify” and watch as clarity follows.

AQUARIUS

You’re all over the map right now with socializing, running errands, working, and in all likelihood enjoying some rather interesting romantic developments. Losing your head is one response, and so is getting so stressed out you can’t enjoy the good elements of this time. Luckily, your powers of communication are amped up, letting you vent in ways that keep those

Badger and the Case for Patriotism

THE WORLD IS A BETTER PLACE TODAY, READERS

Toytown Nazi crook Tommy “Ten Names” Robinson is in prison.

On Monday, the contemptible arm lifter got eighteen months inside for contempt of court. Given social media’s howls of whataboutery and anguish from jackboot fanciers, you’d imagine that poor Tommeh went inside for a grand gesture based on principle.

No.

The poison dwarf went to the chokey after breaching a court order not to repeat claims about a schoolboy already judged libellous in a civil trial. The rule of law worked as it should: it delivered certainty. And the certainty it delivered was that flouting court orders carries penalties.

Of course, Tommy made sure he got his hols in before he went inside. He spent a couple of months in Spain, spending the money he had grifted from his supporters. Despite being penniless, the original PayPal Patriot seems to have plenty of money to splash around and no means of explaining where it comes from or how much tax he pays on it.

Those who claim Robinson is a journalist who’s been jailed for exercising freedom of speech are deluded. To the extent that Tommeh Robinson is a journalist, he’s of the same stamp as Lord Haw-Haw.

For people who want to preserve English institutions and the English identity, they have a peculiar view of the English state. The law is the law is the law. You don’t get to pick and choose which laws you obey and which you don’t. If a judge says, “If you publish this libel again, you’ll go to prison”, you’d better bet they mean it. So, when you repeat - and magnify the libel, as Ten Names did, you will go to prison. That has nothing to do with freedom of speech.

Tommy libelled a school student, lost the libel case, claimed he was broke, repeated the libel online, was warned not to repeat the libel under penalty of imprisonment, repeated it

at a large gathering this July, then, the following day, fled the country for his summer holidays - or to hide his cash - was arrested when he returned to the UK, and - after grifting thousands of pounds from his marks - pleaded guilty to contempt of court.

If that were the limit of Robinson’s criminality, it would be bad enough. It isn’t.

On top of two assault convictions and a sentence for mortgage fraud, in 2013, Robinson was jailed for ten months for travelling to the US on another man’s passport. The following year, he was sentenced to 18 months for mortgage fraud. In 2017, he was convicted of contempt of court: he had recorded a report outside a trial in Canterbury Crown Court, in which he described the defendants – before the verdict was reached – as “Muslim child rapists”. He was given a suspended sentence, which became a nine-month jail sentence after he reported live outside Leeds Crown Court during a similar trial; he not only once again broadcast prejudicial comments but also confronted the defendants, risking the trial’s collapse.

His apparent access to ready cash, as a result of his activities as a professional racist, also means the taxman is taking a close interest in his financial affairs. For a bankrupt, Tommeh leads quite the lifestyle.

He’s some hero, isn’t he, readers?

He’s also a man who loves England so much that he has an Irish passport.

What a patriot!

The sad thing is that some of the people who’ve been drawn to Robinson’s message of hate not only regard themselves as patriots but actually are patriotic. They are not all stupid bigots or thugs. Instead, they signal a pressing issue in politics and society.

Many of the people who support thugs and grifters like Tommy Robinson feel dispossessed and profoundly rootless. They are atavistically attached to the idea of country and belonging. However, politics, and more particularly modern politics, does not focus on country or class but on abstract concepts that bear no relation to millions of people’s daily lives, such as inclusivity, economic growth, and sovereignty. Each of those is a high concept in the low-concept scrabble for housing, food, and health.

Badger will explain:

At one time, the political system sought to balance middle-class aspirations and working-class needs. As the middle class grew, it forced out working-class voices, meaning the UK’s political economy skewed towards satisfying the

former to the detriment of the latter. The growth in the ranks of the professional politician with no hinterland outside the party machine followed. Politicians became divorced from a significant section of society. They often pursued policies that distanced themselves from the working class.

In the absence of representation within the political system, the working class turned to certainty. They might have nothing, but they have national pride and pride in national achievement. The more bien pensant revisionists hacked away at those certainties, the more resentful the working class became. Ignoring the working class’s concerns about the pace and direction of cultural and social change and failing to meet their immediate economic needs drove many hundreds of thousands, if not millions, to the edge of political discourse.

Lurking at the fringe of national pride, as always, are those who don’t love their country and its people as much as they hate everything and everyone else. These plastic patriots combine conmen, football hooligans, criminal enterprises, the sincerely deluded, and those who hang around the edge of terrorism. They prey upon and exploit the working class’s estrangement from a political system that offers them nothing but endless lectures about equality, inclusivity and diversity.

The real world has failed the UK’s working class. No wonder they are so ready to believe nonsensical conspiracies about vast global cabals controlling events, planning freedom’s destruction and the end of Western civilisation.

For shills and grifters like little Tommeh, patriotism is truly the last refuge of the scoundrel. For countless others, patriotism is a real and animating sentiment in their lives. The tragedy for those patriots is their capture and exploitation by the sort of vermin that spent the Second World War in jail or being hanged for treason afterwards.

Humanity’s dive off the deep end

IT’S a funny old world you’ve got, humans! You’re on a fast track to ruin, and half of you don’t seem to give a peck. Take it from me, perched down at Milford Haven—if you’re planning to wreck the place, you’re doing a cracking job! I look around, and what do I see? Trash piling up, beaches turning plastic, and fish thinning out by the day. You all bang on about “saving the planet,” but it seems more like an endless squawk with no flight.

There’s a whole ocean of issues you’ve stirred up, like a storm at sea! Climate change, plastic islands, oil spills, you name it. You shout about going green but keep building petrol stations and plastic factories. Now, I don’t pretend to understand every little thing you lot get up to, but even a seagull can see that this isn’t exactly a recipe for survival. You say, “We need to act now,” but no one actually does anything, just flapping and squawking. It’s like watching a flock of seagulls fighting over a chip wrapper—no winners, only noise.

And let’s talk about the whole thing with food, yeah? Here’s a bird who scavenges, and even I can’t wrap my beak around it. You churn out mountains of food, but half goes to waste while others go hungry. You’ve got the fields, the factories, and the kitchens, yet I’m still seeing folk raiding bins. It’s like this grand paradox: so much abundance, yet so little care. Imagine me squawking over a pile of fish bones only to turn my back and let them rot—that’s what it looks like from here.

But maybe it’s all part of your grand plan, right? Maybe you’re just hoping nature will fix itself up while you lot carry on polluting. Sorry to tell you, mate, but there’s no magic broom coming along to sweep the mess you’re making. Down here on the docks, I see it firsthand—more plastic than pebbles, water so slick you could slip on it. It’s a proper tragedy, and

you’re all in it together, like a big ol’ band of daft puffins diving off a cliff.

What’s left to say? If you’re going to dig yourself into this hole, at least admit you’re doing it! Don’t prance about saying “save the planet” with

one claw while pouring oil into the sea with the other. Get your act together, humans, before it’s too late, or else the gulls, fish, and every other critter will be watching your great vanishing act. Just remember, mate, once the

seabirds are gone, you know it’s game over.

So, take it from old Stephen Seagull—either wise up or brace yourself for a world with no seagulls left to squawk about it.

RSPCA Cymru welcomes Senedd support for renters with pets

RSPCA Cymru has expressed optimism that renters with pets across Wales could soon gain more rights, as the Senedd’s Local Government and Housing Committee has endorsed the charity’s call for Welsh Government intervention.

On Tuesday (Oct 22), the committee released its findings from an inquiry into the private renting sector. The inquiry explored obstacles faced by pet-owning tenants in Wales, resulting in 13 key recommendations, including one urging the Welsh Government to clarify its plans to extend renters’ rights to include pet ownership. The committee also recommended a “myth-busting” campaign to counter landlord discrimination against pet owners.

RSPCA Cymru has been actively campaigning to prevent private landlords from banning pets in rented properties. John Griffiths MS, Chair of the Local Government and Housing Committee, voiced support for this shift, stating, “Today’s report calls on the Welsh Government to ensure people renting privately can live comfortably in highquality, affordable homes. Unfortunately, many tenants are forced to choose between keeping their pet and securing a home.”

Griffiths highlighted that landlords could benefit from pet-friendly policies, as tenants with pets are often more likely to stay longterm, leading to higher financial returns. “It’s time to end this discrimination and allow suitable properties to welcome pets,” he

added.

The animal welfare charity argues that allowing pets in rental homes promotes responsible pet ownership and benefits both tenants and the wider community. BillieJade Thomas, RSPCA Cymru’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, commented, “We welcome this recommendation and are pleased our evidence was heard. During our annual Adoptober rehoming drive, it’s vital that we encourage policies that support pet ownership in rented housing, especially as our centres remain under pressure to find homes for rescue animals.”

Rising demand for rehoming

New figures from RSPCA reveal a concerning trend: in 2023, RSPCA centres across England and Wales saw a 42% increase in animals arriving compared to those rehomed. While the charity’s 14 rehoming centres and 135 independent branches found new homes for over 28,000 animals last year, over 40,000 animals arrived, leading to overcrowded shelters.

Karen Colman, who oversees animal placement for RSPCA, highlighted the benefits of any policy changes that facilitate responsible pet ownership. “Our rescue centres are overwhelmed, and we hope that easing restrictions on pet ownership in rented properties will help more animals find loving homes,” she said.

Seeking new homes

RSPCA Newport Animal Centre is seeking a new home for Baby, a one-yearold tabby who was brought in after a difficult birthing experience. Baby is now ready for adoption and would do well in an adultonly home, potentially with another calm feline. Meanwhile, guinea pigs Hercules and Squash have been waiting for 109 days at the Bryn Y Maen Centre in Upper Colwyn Bay. The pair are friendly and would thrive in a home where they can continue to grow in confidence.

Supporting landlords and tenants

RSPCA Cymru has long advocated for pet-friendly rental policies, producing model tenancy agreements and guidance for landlords to support responsible pet ownership. As part of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, the charity recommends that landlords receive materials on pet policies during their registration process.

With the committee’s recommendations now public, RSPCA Cymru awaits the Welsh Government’s response, hoping it will usher in a new era for pet ownership in rented homes across Wales. Further details on RSPCA’s campaigns are available on the charity’s website as it marks its 200th anniversary this year.

FUW Calendar winners highlight Wales’s rural life

BUDDING photographers from across Wales have left the FUW’s headquarters full of wonderful rural life images in recent weeks. 2025’s annual calendar image entries have been sorted and judged with a wonderful family image of North Country Cheviot sheep pictured underneath a budding tree taking the top prize.

Emily Jones from Penuwch is delighted that her winning image

will be featured on the front cover of FUW’s 2025 calendar. The calendar will be available FREE of charge from FUW’s county offices and at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair on November 24 and 25.

The top prize of £250 will be presented to Emily on the first day of the Winter Fair with the eleven other photographers’ entries featured on the 2025 calendar named, sent a bilingual copy and an FUW beanie hat.

This year’s featured photographers are Greta Hughes, Jamie Smart, Heledd Williams, Annie Fairclough, Chloe Bayliss, Steven Evans Hughes, Marian Pyrs Owen, Beca Williams, Richard Walliker, Erin Wynne Roberts and Anne Callan.

FUW President Ian Rickman

said: “The competition has proven extremely popular yet again this year and I was delighted to look through over 100 entries

of wonderful rural images. The standard was high, and it was no easy task to narrow them down to just twelve.

“I think we’ve captured the very best of what rural Wales has to offer, from cute looking miniature donkeys and piglets, a highland cow profile for March with a stunningly detailed close-up of a hare face for the beginning of the year to a pink sunset in rural Wales.

“This year, we’ve awarded a drone image of machinery at work for October, a traditional hand shearing competition features in August ending with an eerie winter wonderland image near an estuary to end the year. The calendar encapsulates the calendar months and some striking, colourful and atmospheric images.

“This competition has highlighted that farming matters to all of us in one way or another, and our Welsh family farms are vital as food producers, countryside stewards, wildlife supporters, technical innovators, and safeguarding traditional skill sets.

“Congratulations to all the winners and thank you for taking the time to capture these images, for showcasing farming and our wonderful countryside in such a skilled way,” Ian Rickman concluded.

The search is on for new CEO to lead HCC

Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) stands at the forefront of the Welsh red meat industry, championing its development, promotion, and marketing with a clear vision: to cultivate a profitable, efficient, sustainable, innovative and competitive industry which is resilient to political and environmental change and benefits the people of Wales. It has a statutory remit and delivers the Red Meat Industry (Wales) Measure 2010.

After a period of change, the red meat levy body is now looking to recruit its new CEO to lead the organisation into its next phase of development.

“This is an exciting time to be joining Hybu Cig Cymru. As we embark on a new chapter, we’re looking for an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead us into our next phase of development within a dynamic and evolving industry,” said HCC Chair Catherine Smith.

This is a pivotal role for an influential leader who excels in relationship-building and their ability to foster strong connections with Welsh Government, farmers, processors, industry leaders and other partners across the agricultural sector, and the red meat supply chain will be crucial in shaping the future of the organisation and its impact on the red meat industry.

“As our new CEO, the right candidate will take ownership of delivering the final stages of our

Vision 25 strategy before crafting a new vision for HCC; one that not only drives sustainable growth but also positions the organisation as a role model of excellence within the sector from 2026 and beyond. If you can inspire a team who live and breathe this sector to follow that vision; act as an inspirational change agent who embodies not just high technical and operational standards, but a genuine commitment to and compassion for the people who facilitate our success, then we want to hear from you,” added Catherine Smith.

In addition to these responsibilities, the CEO will be designated Accounting

Officer by the Welsh Government, safeguarding the prudent and transparent management of public funds.

Mrs Smith highlighted that the role offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact, not just on the organisation, but on the economic fabric of the agricultural industry and the red meat supply chain in Wales and beyond.

“HCC need a candidate who can lead with influence, high integrity and ambition to make a positive and lasting impact for the benefit of all our key stakeholders. Expertise of change management and transition

will be needed because the context for Welsh farming is changing, and our new CEO will have to help both the organisation and the red meat sector identify and navigate a forthcoming period of change.

“To maximise the impact and effectiveness of this role, our CEO must embody the kinds of behaviours that foster a strong, compassionate and results driven culture. By leading with empathy, influence, creativity and determination you will inspire excellence, drive organisational growth and promote a culture built on collaboration and shared ambition,” said HCC Chair Catherine Smith.

Community farm brings support and skills to veterans

A COMMUNITY farm in Pembrokeshire is making a difference for veterans and vulnerable individuals by blending nature-based activities with therapeutic support.

Founded by Daisy Coleman in 2019, Redberth Croft CIC became an officially registered Community Interest Company in 2024. Since its inception, the farm has offered a host of engaging activities, from gardening therapy and animalassisted sessions to creative workshops and rural skills training, all aimed at fostering resilience and personal growth.

One of its standout initiatives, ‘Hedging Your Vets,’ received support from the Port of Milford Haven Community Fund. This unique project provides veterans

with training in traditional hedgelaying—a skill that preserves biodiversity while promoting mental wellbeing. Running throughout the winter, the programme equips participants with practical skills that open pathways to potential employment in conservation and sustainable agriculture.

To further its mission, Redberth Croft CIC collaborates with organisations such as The VC Gallery and The Tenby Project. Together, they work with local authorities to deliver day services that enhance inclusion and accessibility for individuals facing learning disabilities and mental health challenges.

More than just a farm, Redberth Croft CIC serves as a community hub, offering a supportive space for individuals

with complex needs to build confidence, learn new skills, and form meaningful connections. Its core belief is that green health initiatives and nature-based therapies can offer significant therapeutic benefits to those in need.

For those interested in participating in the ‘Hedging Your Vets’ project or other future courses, further details can be found on Redberth Croft CIC’s website and social media channels.

Through its work, Redberth Croft CIC is cultivating a compassionate and resilient community in Pembrokeshire, promoting both personal growth and environmental conservation in a safe, welcoming environment.

THIS week we well and truly look towards winter as the clock has turned back, meaning lighter mornings but darker afternoons and pitch black evenings. We are ever so fortunate to have the ability now to continue to work under the cover of darkness inside warm lighted sheds and associated farm buildings. The animals seem to enjoy it as well! Power and technology has transformed the way we farm and live our lives in rural Wales. How on earth did our forefathers manage?

This is a crucial week in politics, for the UK’s financial well-being and also the future funding of agriculture as we hear the first autumn budget by a Labour government for 14 years. That is the reason why the FUW sent a stark letter to the Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and the First Minister ten days ago. In it we made a strong case for continued support for Welsh agriculture, for farm businesses and for rural areas.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Westminster’s corridors of power, it is too easy to forget about Wales, and all that we achieve as a nation. Furthermore, I hope that the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, is worried about rural Wales, food production, small businesses and our environment. By the time you read this column, we will know.

Our discussions as a Union, in recent months, has been around the development of the Agriculture (Wales) Act and a replacement support policy for agriculture. These appear to be a seismic shift away from European principles that continue to underpin the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) framework such as protecting farm incomes and food supplies and towards ‘Sustainable Land Management’ objectives.

Such a shift in priorities is important given that approximately 80% of farm businesses in Wales would not generate an annual profit without receiving current forms of farm support. In addition, farming families continue to face a plethora of other challenges relating to bovine TB outbreaks and stringent water quality

regulations while witnessing cuts in agricultural and rural development funding here in Wales of around a quarter of a billion pounds over the past five years due to the failure of the last Government to deliver fully on their 2019 manifesto promise.

Whilst the Welsh Government has committed to the Basic Payment Scheme and other interim schemes including the Habitat Wales Scheme and Organic Support Payments for 2025, these commitments must, at the very least, be underpinned by maintaining current levels of funding that sits outside the Barnett Formula to ensure an effective preparatory phase and transition to the Sustainable Farming Scheme.

It is clear that the final Sustainable Farming Scheme will require a secure multi-annual budget as farmers are expected to deliver a plethora of environmental public goods alongside the production of sustainable food.

The current agricultural and rural development budget is over ten years old, set in 2013 by the European Union (EU). According to the Bank of England Inflation Calculator, the EU CAP budget for Wales of around £331 million per year allocated in 2013 should now be worth around £450 million.

The FUW has called for an inflation-proofed, multiannual commitment of at least £450 million per year in EU CAP legacy funding for agriculture and rural development in Wales for the remainder of this parliament. By the time you read these words, we will know if the UK Treasury and The Chancellor of the Exchequer have listened to the sector.

Any decisions that threaten the viability and succession of our family farms will also threaten UK food security. Any responsible government would prioritise our own food security in the volatile global setting we find ourselves in by committing to a fair funding settlement for Welsh agriculture and providing reassurance to farmers that Annual Percentage Rate will remain unchanged. We’ll await with bated breath when Rachel Reeves steps up to the podium…

Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric named the ‘Best Value Electric Car’

AHEAD of its UK launch in early 2025, the head-turning

Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric has added another accolade to its rapidlygrowing trophy cabinet after winning “Best Value Electric Car” in the Electrifying.com Awards.

Only electric cars that represent a significant achievement in the sector qualify as contenders for the annual awards that are hosted by the acclaimed website.

On awarding the Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric, Ginny Buckley, Founder and CEO of Electrifying.com said: “Renault is on a roll with its electric cars, and the new Renault 5 E-Tech is leading the charge. This 21st-century reboot of a much-loved classic combines retro charm with modern tech and has nailed its comeback. It’s a car guaranteed to make you smile, it’s fun to drive, turns heads, and comes at a competitive price. We think it’s the one to beat in the compact electric car class. Small but mighty, the Renault 5 packs a punch proving that affordable can also be aspirational.”

Adam Wood, Managing Director Renault UK and Country Head Renault Group UK commented: “The Renault

5 E-Tech 100% electric has already made a huge impact and while many of the fantastic reviews have praised its looks, driving experience and specification, this award underlines how it also provides fantastic value for money. With many people concerned over the cost of switching to an EV, Renault 5 really is a car that appeals to head and heart.”

With the retro style

reminiscent of the original Renault 5 but with a modern twist and offering up to 248 miles on a single charge (pending WLTP certification), the Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric is set to be a standout in its class.

Customers eager to be among the first behind the wheel of a Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric can purchase an R-Pass, for £150, which allows

them to place their order 10 days before the general public. Prices for the Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric are expected to start from less than £23,000, with full pricing due to be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information on the Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric visit: https://www.renault.co.uk/ electric-vehicles/r5-e-techelectric.html

SWelsh politicians respond to Budget – predictably

GLEE, sorrow, calm satisfaction, anger, disappointment, and smug self-satisfaction: the responses of Wales’s politicians to Rachel Reeves’s budget speech were as you might expect.

Labour concentrated its messaging on the measures that appeal most to its base, or at least Labour in Wales’s perception of its base:

• More money for the Welsh Government

• An increase in the National Minimum Wage

• Gestures towards renewable energy

• Investment in infrastructure

• Soaking business owners for cash

• Clobbering farmers

Welsh Liberal Democrat

MP David Chadwick said:

“The Chancellor chose to increase taxation for the small businesses that are the lifeblood of the Welsh economy instead of aiming for the enormous profits of the banks, oil and gas giants and big tech.

“The Chancellors Family Farm Tax risks being a death knell for local farmers who have already faced attacks on their livelihoods by the Welsh Labour Government, who have shown time and time again they have no understanding of the rural economy or the work that goes into making sure the public have food on their plates.”

THE DIVISION OF THE SPOILS

It’s important to qualify the claims that more money will necessarily go to the crisisstricken Welsh NHS. The Welsh Government’s budget settlement from Westminster will rise to £25bn next year, an increase of £1.7bn on the previous year. However, it is up to the Welsh Government to decide where it spends the proportion of that money that consists of extra NHS funding for England delivered as a consequential payment for Wales.

The Welsh Government faces competing claims for a share of the spoils from other parts of its budget.

After previous protests about cuts to the agriculture budget and the content of its Sustainable Farming Scheme, the Welsh Government might decide to tread carefully before throwing the Rural Affairs budget under the bus again. That’s particularly pertinent as Eluned Morgan’s administration faces an election in less than

eighteen months.

Add in the prospect of Labour’s tax raid on family farms, and the agriculture industry could rise again to disrupt the Welsh Government and give it cause to think again. Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Conservatives, and the farming unions have already sounded war drums over the issue.

Against that, Labour might calculate that voters in its heartlands will take one look at farmers sitting on a potential £1m in tax-free assets and decide the political risks of a countryside in revolt are worth risking.

THE BENEFITS OF LABOUR FOR LABOUR

To allow Labour in the Senedd to claim a benefit to Wales in having Labour in power in Westminster, the Chancellor announced £25m in funding to tackle the problems of coal tips and a plan to right the injustice

of the government trousering the surplus from the Miners’ Pension Scheme.

It has been assessed that it would cost £600 million to clear up coal tips completely.

The latter means a boost to the annual pensions of 112,000 former mineworkers by just under a third: an average increase of £29 per week for each member.

Eluned Morgan said: “Over the past fourteen years, the Welsh Government has tried again and again to have productive conversations with our UK counterparts. It has been like wading through mud.

“Meaningfully engaging with the UK Government in this process shows once again that this UK Government respects devolution, and our two Governments are working together to deliver for the people of Wales

“We knew that this Budget, tough choices would have to be made. But Rachel Reeves has set out her plan to fix the foundations of the economy, and look to the future.”

The Welsh Government’s Finance Secretary, Mark Drakeford, saw only good things in the Budget.

He said: “It marks the first steps in the right direction after 14 years of economic mismanagement by previous UK governments and the impact its decisions have had on people and communities.

“It is clear the Chancellor is listening to what Wales needs. I look forward to working with the UK Government on our other priorities, including securing fair

Family Farm Tax risks being a death knell for farmers: David Chadwick MP, Welsh Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader

Protest and survive: Wales’s rural communities could rise again

funding for rail.”

Ah, the fly in the ointment.

Labour screamed blue murder about £4bn the Conservatives owed from HS2 funding. As soon as Labour looked likely to win an election, those screams became whimpers, then whispers, and now the Welsh Government doesn’t like talking about it at all.

Their position contrasts with that of every other party in the Senedd. All of them, including the Welsh Conservatives, have been vocal and consistent in calling for consequential funding for HS2 and the devolution of Air Passenger Duty. Labour in Wales was once as determined. It isn’t now.

MORGAN FAILS FIRST TEST OVER FAIR FUNDING

Rhun ap Iorwerth said it “blew a gaping hole” in Eluned Morgan’s promise that having two Labour governments working together would benefit the people of Wales.

The Plaid Cymru leader said: “People will not be fooled by the Chancellor’s claim that this is a Budget that spells good news for Wales.”

Mr ap Iorwerth continued: “The Welsh Budget for this year is already worth £700m less in real terms whilst our councils face a shortfall of more than half a billion.

“First Minister Eluned Morgan claimed that she was ‘pushing hard for HS2 cash’. It’s now clear that she didn’t push hard enough. This was the first test of the First Minister’s leadership –a test which she has failed.

“As England is promised further rail electrification, Wales is still saddled with twentieth-century infrastructure –an injustice that Labour has no interest in addressing.

“Our nation is still being shortchanged to the tune of billions. No end to the unfair Barnett funding formula, no U-turn on the winter fuel allowance, no plan to scrap the cruel two-child benefit cap, and no let-up for the small businesses already being hit by Labour in Wales.

“The Chancellor had an opportunity to chart a new course, but instead, she blew a gaping hole in the promise that having two Labour governments working together would benefit the people of Wales.”

A ‘SMASH-AND-GRAB’ BUDGET

Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies said, “Labour’s smash-andgrab Budget will have a devastating impact in Wales.

“This Budget is built on the back of keeping pensioners cold this winter, and the rise of national insurance will be an incredibly destructive jobs tax for Wales’ economy, which is already struggling after decades of labour rule.

“Nobody is surprised that the UK Labour Government has cut business rates relief, just as they have done in Wales. Just like their assault on rural communities in Wales, Labour’s change to inheritance tax rules risks marking the end of the family farm.

“While extra money for our health service is always welcome, it must be ringfenced to cut NHS waiting lists. However, the lack of money for social care reform is a worrying omission from this Budget and is, in effect, kicking tough choices into the long grass.

“The Welsh Conservatives will defend our businesses from tax raids and will always fight to keep pensioners warm.

“In the short term, we will provide a voice to those businesses that will close as a result of these measures, and the employees who will sadly lose their jobs.”

Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Finance, Peter Fox MS added: “This budget is nothing but a cash grab from Labour politicians who seem to love nothing more than spending other people’s money.

“Labour’s pledge to not raise tax on working people was clearly disingenuous at best. Tax rises affecting small businesses are most definitely taxes on working people, as is the new tax on the family farm, which will deal a crushing blow to rural communities across Wales.

“Labour Ministers in Cardiff Bay need to stand up for the people of Wales and not let their colleagues in Westminster continue to pick people’s pockets.”

Eluned Morgan: First Minister praises positive impact of working with another Labour government after 14 years.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth: Morgan fails first test of leadership (Pic: Rob Norman)

Budget will have a devastating impact on Wales: Claims Andrew RT Davies

W ITH ANDREW LyE

Responding to the news that hospital waiting times figures in Wales have hit a record high of just over 800,000, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader and Regional MS for Mid & West Wales, Jane Dodds said:

“These figures, which are the worst in the UK for waiting lists, are obscene and they paint a clear picture of how much damage Welsh Labour’s failings have had on our NHS.

Out of a population of just over 3 million people, nearly one third of them are waiting for some form of treatment.

This is quite frankly unacceptable, and the Welsh Government must tackle this waiting-list fiasco immediately.

To add insult to injury, the Welsh Government published their five priorities for reducing the NHS waiting list backlog back in 2022 and almost all of these targets have been missed.

Patients and staff should not be expected to pick up the pieces from the fallout of Labour’s mismanagement.

We cannot delay action any longer, if we want to see a brighter future for our NHS here in Wales then we must take a bold and fresh approach with the aim of cutting down these sky-high waiting lists and making accessible healthcare a reality for all.

The Welsh Government need to set binding targets and stick to them in order to bring these lists down, not just issue more empty promises.”

Long waiting lists have been a huge issue for the NHS in Wales for several years and

were made far worse during the disruption to healthcare services in the coronavirus pandemic.

The Welsh Government set out targets as part of a recovery plan post-Covid to cut two-year waiting lists completely by March 2023. That target was not met and two-year waits now stand at 24,193, while 169,609 patients have waited over a year. That means more than 23% of waits are more than a year in Wales, while in England, the proportion is 3.7% when comparative specialisms are analysed.

In August just 56.5% of patients started treatment within 62 days. Over the last year or so this figure has remained within the 50-60% range with no significant improvement being made.

In September 21,000 hours of ambulance time were lost due to handover delays at hospital emergency departments.

The Welsh Government has set a target that at least 75% of cancer patients should start treatment within 62 days. In August just 56.5% of patients started treatment within 62 days. Over the last year or so this figure has remained within the 50-60% range with no significant improvement being made.

Figures also show there are nearly 1,600 patients who are ready to be discharged but are taking up a hospital bed because of a delayed transfer of care.

The oerall figures are truly bleak and are not the fault of the frontline staff who work for our NHS. Jeremy Miles, the new Health Secretary has truly been handed a poisoned chalice.

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

Businesses respond cautiously to Reeves’s Budget

BUSINESS leaders gave mixed reactions to Rachel Reeves’s first Budget as Chancellor.

Although the increase in Employer National Insurance Contributions from 13.8% to 15% grabbed headlines, not least because it raised £25bn in tax revenue, most business bodies reacted positively to other measures in Wednesday’s Budget.

The Chancellor managed to balance the NIC hike with a number of measures to offset its hit. However, the retail sector responded with dismay to the NI rise and a significant rise in the National Minimum Wage.

EMPLOYERS TO PAY MORE IN NATIONAL INSURANCE

The biggest revenueraiser was a big increase in employer National Insurance contributions, both through an increase in the rate and a sharp reduction in the earnings threshold at which employers start paying.

The cut in the point at which employer NICs are paid means the largest percentage rise in labour costs is for employing lower-wage workers. The rise in employer NICs will further increase the incentive for employers to switch to contracting with the selfemployed.

Small to medium-sized businesses, SMEs, have only two options to deal with the increase in NICs and the minimum wage rise: increased prices to customers and lower wages for their staff. The dual impact of that is a projected decrease in household expenditure.

Against those factors, the increase in the employment allowance – and expansion of eligibility for it -will reduce the rise’s impact. The employment allowance is a government scheme that permits eligible employers to reduce their annual National Insurance (NI) liability by up to £10,500, essentially allowing them to pay less in employer’s Class 1 NI contributions each time they run payroll until the allowance is used up or the tax year ends. As most businesses are SMEs, the increase in their employment allowance disproportionately favours them.

BUDGET PRIORITISES

“EVERYDAY

ENTREPRENEURS”

Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), Tina McKenzie, said: “Against a challenging backdrop, today’s Budget shows a clear direction in business policy now for the whole of this Parliament to target support at small businesses, rather than big corporates – prioritising everyday entrepreneurs working in local communities in all parts of the country.”

Ms McKenzie added:

“Increasing the employment allowance for small businesses by a record amount is a very welcome move, and we’re pleased the Chancellor has heard us loud and clear. More than doubling it, from £5,000 to £10,500, will shield the smallest employers from the jobs tax; therefore, it is a pro-jobs prioritisation in a tough budget.

“The decision to protect small businesses from an inflationary hike in business rates – by freezing the small business multiplier – will help small firms with premises across all sectors. Meanwhile,

extending business rate relief, albeit at a lower level, for small firms in retail, hospitality, and leisure will mitigate a potential cliff-edge tax hike for those in some of the toughest sectors.”

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC

Gus Williams, interim CEO at Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “This was always going to be a difficult budget. The headlines are going to be the £40bn increase in taxes. That was inevitable given pressures caused by demographics – an ageing population – increasing numbers of people not participating in the workforce, and the need for long-term public investment.”

Mr Williams continued: “The approach has been to try and spread the additional tax burden as widely as possible without touching income tax or VAT, focusing on those taxes that provide most certainty that the rises will increase the tax take in the short term. This means changes to the Employer’s NI, inheritance tax, agricultural and

business disposal relief, Capital Gains Tax, second home stamp duty, abolition of the non-dom regime, air passenger duty, tax on vapes, and VAT on private schools.

“Changes to Employer NI, just increasing the rate to 15% and reducing the threshold from £9,000 to £5,000 rather than including pension contributions means a slightly lower rise in Employers NI than had been flagged, and makes sense as it retains the pension contribution incentive. However, it will be a burden to businesses, particularly in some sectors where wages are at the lower end, and staffing costs are a high proportion of overall costs.

“Freezes on small business rates and reductions for the hospitality and leisure sectors are something the Chambers of Commerce lobbied hard for and are welcome. The infrastructure investment plans appear sensible, well thought out and achievable rather than just aspirational.

“Changes to inheritance tax for agricultural and business property will impact succession and tax planning for a number of small business owners, and all small business owners

must make sure they have a succession or exit plan in place.”

“The sleight of hand in all this is that a lot was made of personal allowances increasing in 2028; it’s currently 2024. The freeze in personal allowances until 2028, combined with the national minimum wage increases, will push more tax revenues into the Treasury, and this is probably where a significant chunk of the additional tax taken throughout this parliament will actually come from.”

THINGS STILL TOUGH FOR HOSPITALITY

David Chapman, Executive Director of UKHospitality Cymru, said: “We’ve campaigned long and hard for support with Business Rates, and so the provision of 40% relief for businesses in England from April is very welcome.

“However, it’s vitally important that the Welsh Government utilises this funding to provide businesses with a suitable level of continued rates support here.”

Mr Chapman added, “The Welsh Government should be applauded for introducing a lower business rates multiplier

through recent legislation. While we discuss a new, better system, it would be incredibly beneficial to the sector to have all of this interim relief made available to us.

“Looking at where we are at the moment, things are still tough for our businesses.

“We are likely to face some post-Christmas closures and certainly staff and offer cutbacks because of cost increases in other areas, such as the new employer National Insurance Contributions and higher-thanexpected wage rises, so the rate relief assistance is very important indeed.”

RETAILERS SOUND A WARNING

Trade groups are already counting the cost of the rises in National Insurance Contributions and the minimum wage.

The Association of Convenience Stores predicts an extra £600m in costs for its members next year, while the Federation of Wholesale Distributors estimates wholesalers will have to find another £110m.

“At a time we should be incentivising businesses to turbocharge economic growth across the economy, almost a quarter of our members may now be forced to reduce investment in other critical areas of their business,” says James Bielby, CEO of FWD

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “Retailers are counting the cost of today’s Budget: over £2.3bn in increases to employer National Insurance contributions; £367m due to the larger-than-expected rise to the National Living Wage; and a £140m hike to next April’s business rates. These costs come into effect in April of next year. They are on top of other upcoming regulatory costs and an estimated £300800m of extra costs from the implementation of the Employment Rights Bill.

“Retail employs three million people and 2.7 million more across supply chains, driving investment in jobs, communities and, ultimately, economic growth, right across the country. For a low-margin industry, today’s Budget will hit hard, with the odds now stacked firmly against growth and investment in the short term. These new costs also risk increasing the prices customers pay at the till.”

BEN LAKE MP will be hosting community drop-in sessions in two locations across Ceredigion Preseli, offering constituents a chance to get essential advice and support on matters including Pension Credit in preparation for the winter months.

These events will provide constituents with direct access to representatives from charities and organisations like the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, as well as utility companies to help address concerns over bills, finances, and other pressing issues. With winter around the corner, this is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the resources and assistance on offer.

Additionally, attendees are reminded that the deadline to apply for Pension Credit, in time to qualify for the winter fuel payment, is December 21. While applications for Pension Credit are accepted year-round, applying by this date ensures that eligible constituents receive the payment and have it backdated.

Event Details:

8 November 2024 -

Fishguard Town Hall, 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm

22 November 2024 - Penparcau Memorial Hall, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

These sessions are open to all, and no appointments are required – simply drop in at a time that suits you.

Looking ahead to the event, Ben Lake MP said:

“I understand that this winter is going to be challenging for many in our community, who are concerned about managing bills and keeping their homes warm. These concerns have been heightened by the UK Government’s decision to scrap the Winter Fuel Payments for all except those on Pension Credit.

“I am eager to reach out to constituents to offer support and share advice wherever possible. I encourage anyone interested in learning more about the available support to join us – it’s a valuable opportunity to access information and raise concerns with myself and other organisations.”

If you have any questions with regards to the event, please contact

ben.lake.mp@ parliament.uk

Budget shows a clear direction: Tina McKenzie, FSB Policy Chair

Retailers counting the cost: Says British Retail Consortium

Send youR LetteRS to: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

emAiL uS At: editor@herald.email

S

AN IMPRACTICAL AND INNUMERATE MADNESS

DEAR SIR,

On October 21, Wales Economy Secretary Rebecca Evans told the Senedd that “Wales has an onshore development pipeline of more than 5GW and a further 18GW through fixed and floating offshore wind.” Yet, not a single member of the Senedd appears to have questioned the sheer insanity of this claim.

The proposed 18GW offshore is staggering enough, but 5GW onshore across Wales? Do they even understand what this means? That’s 5,000MW of wind capacity to be installed across Wales. For context, consider the three massive wind turbines beside the B4333 at Blaen Bowi, Capel Iwan, near Newcastle Emlyn. Each of these 252-foot-high turbines has an installed capacity of 1.3MW, meaning it would take a staggering 3,846 of them to meet the proposed capacity. That’s the equivalent of a structure taller than Nelson’s Column, sitting atop the Angel of the North, spread across our countryside!

Or take the largest wind farm on Welsh land, Pen y Cymoedd, with its 76 turbines between Neath and Aberdare. Each of these 470-foot-tall turbines has a capacity of 3MW, so achieving 5GW would still require 1,666 of them. But Wales covers just 8,015 square miles! How on Earth can thousands of these enormous turbines fit within such a small area? Are our leaders completely oblivious to the numbers and logistics?

Picture it: 3,846 Capel Iwanstyle turbines across Wales, one towering turbine every 2 square miles, from Cardiff to Wrexham, including every farm, village, and National Park. Has anyone truly thought this through?

Then there’s the operational side. Gridwatch.co.uk data shows that wind turbines often generate little or no power, especially during calm periods. Even when they do produce energy, it mostly goes to England because the Pembroke CCGT power station, operational since 2011, more

than meets Wales’s needs on its own.

To top it off, one of the Capel Iwan turbines burned out in January, leaving broken blades lying on the ground all year, generating absolutely nothing. And yet, no Welsh politician, not even Ms. Eluned Morgan, thought to take Keir Starmer to Newcastle Emlyn to witness this reality.

This plan for onshore wind development across Wales is, quite simply, impractical and innumerate madness.

Lyn Jenkins Cardigan

Identifying CKD early can make a profound difference, enabling steps to protect kidney function and potentially avoid the need for dialysis or a transplant.

As part of Kidney Care UK’s “Bloody Amazing Kidneys” awareness campaign, we’re encouraging everyone to take a few minutes to assess their risk of developing kidney disease. Readers can check their kidney health at www.kidneycareuk.org/ kidneyhealthchecker-letter.

Laura Talbot Project Manager, Wales Kidney Care UK

green as a red traffic light and should finish soon, like most of our nuclear power stations.

I am writing to urge your readers to take a moment to check their kidney health.

Our recent findings indicate that over one in four people in Wales (27%) are unaware of the main warning signs of chronic kidney disease (CKD)—an incurable illness affecting 1 in 10 people across the UK, equivalent to 7.2 million individuals.

Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to raise awareness about kidney health.

Readers, politicians and reporters should often check the Gridwatch UK website to easily discover how fragile our energy security is. The rush towards so-called green energy and net zero cannot ever give the nation 24-hour electricity. Today, Saturday 26 October at 06.10, there is no input from solar ‘farms’, but 18% of our electricity comes from wind. Biomass gives 9%, but is about as

However, dependable gas is giving us 41% and nuclear 16% of our electricity upon a weekend day, when there is far less demand from industry, offices and the like. (Only around a third of our electricity is used domestically). Through interconnectors, sometimes we need well over 20% of expensive electricity from the Continent. Today, apart from 8% from France, we are buying 6% from Norway, 4% from Belgium, 1% from Denmark - 19% in total. (Hydro and other sources make up 2% of our supply, and we are sending electricity to Eire 2%, NI 1% and the Netherlands 3%). In a cold spell, and on working weekdays, interconnector supplies will be unavailable or extremely expensive. Take away biomass (please) and interconnector supplies and we are left with gas and nuclear supplying 57% of our energy needs. Desperate times even if new gas and modular nuclear stations are given the go-ahead. Stopping subsidising foreign companies to import, build and operate wind and solar sites and supply intermittent electricity will be a start.

Terry Breverton

KIDNEy CARE UK

DEAR SIR,

ELECTRICITy WOES

DEAR SIR,

PIc TURe oF THe WeeK!

SunriSe on Broadhaven South By MarcuS carrozzo

Death Notices

L ISA M ARIE B ALL

BALL Lisa Marie Pennar, Pembroke DockThe death occurred suddenly and unexpectedly at her home on Thursday 26th. September of Mrs. Lisa Ball of Castle Street, Pennar, Pembroke Dock. She was 37.Beloved wife of Andrew, a devoted mother and much loved daughter, she will be greatly missed by all her family and very many friends. The funeral will take place on Tuesday 22nd. October with a service at St. John’s Church, Pembroke Dock at 11.00.am followed by a private family cremation. Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Lisa may be made to The Paramedics at Pembroke Dock Ambulance Service. All further enquiries may be made to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

LEL CLEAL

Formerly of Lower Town, FishguardPeacefully on Wednesday 23rd October at Llwyndyrys Care Home, Llechryd,

Lel formerly of Lower Town, Fishguard. Beloved wife of the late John, a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Funeral service on Friday 8th November at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 12:15pm. No flowers by request. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Cancer Research UK’ c/o Paul Jenkins &

Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

DON STUBBINS

Llanychaer Peacefully on Tuesday 22nd October at Withybush Hospital, Don of Llanychaer.Beloved husband of Sue, he will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Funeral service on Wednesday 6th November at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 10:45am. No flowers by request.Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘British Heart Foundation’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

CLAIRE DAVID

Formerly of Keeston and HaverfordwestPassed away peacefully in her sleep following a long illness at Ty Olwen Hospice, Morriston, on Monday 7th October 2024 aged 85 years. Loving Mother of Marcus, John and Helen. Doting Grandmother of Tom, Megan, Iwan and Gethin. Claire will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. A Requiem Mass is to take place on Tuesday 5th November 2024 In St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Port Talbot at 9.30am. Followed by a graveside service and committal in Goytre Cemetery at 11.00am. Family flowers only please with donations gratefully received to Missions of Huancane Diocese, Peru C/O St Joseph’s R.C. ChurchAll further enquiries to – Port Talbot & Margam Funeralcare 50 Margam Road Port Talbot SA13 2BN 01639n 883688

PAUL SWALES

Passed away on Wednesday 16th October 2024Paul Swales of Portfield Gate, Haverfordwest aged 69 years. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.The funeral service will take place on Thursday 7th November, 10:45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418.

FELL ARTHUR ADRIAN

Arthur Adrian FELL of Kesteven Court, Carew passed away peacefully at Morriston Hospital Swansea on Friday 18th October 2024, aged 73 years. Known as Ade in the family, he was much loved and will be greatly missed. Ade was a former pupil of Pembroke Grammar School and after gaining a BSc degree in Electronics in

the 1970s he returned to his beloved Pembrokeshire where he lived for the rest of his life.

J OSHUA N ORMAN

NORMAN Joshua Pembroke The death occurred tragically in Swansea on 11th September of Joshua Norman, he was aged 27Josh will be sadly missed by his mother and father Helga and Tony, sister Sophie, brother Shaun, grandfather Steven and familyThe funeral service takes place on Thursday, 24th October at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11.30amThere will be family flowers only with donations in memory of Josh made payable to Wales Air Ambulance c/o Funeral Directors Messrs W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd The Old Rectory, The Norton, Tenby, SA70 8AB or via www.rossitersfunerals.co.uk

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Welsh clubs eye european qualification

Cardiff City, Swansea City, Wrexham, and Newport County involved in ‘transformational’ proposal to secure European football.

Four Welsh football clubs— Cardiff City, Swansea City, Wrexham, and Newport County—are reportedly exploring an opportunity to participate in the Welsh League Cup, a move that could open new avenues for European qualification. Currently competing in the English Football League (EFL), these clubs have limited pathways to qualify for Europe, achievable only by progressing through the FA Cup, EFL Cup, or by reaching the Premier League. The last Welsh club to secure European qualification this way was Swansea, who won the EFL Cup in 2013, earning a place in the Europa League.

The proposal, dubbed Prosiect Cymru (Project Wales), aims to see these four Welsh clubs join the Welsh League Cup—currently known as the Nathaniel MG Cup—for a chance to qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League, which was established in 2021. The BBC reports that

the clubs, in collaboration with the Football Association of Wales (FAW), have presented this idea to UEFA, the FA, the Premier League, and Cymru Premier, following a thorough independent review into the potential impacts of the move.

Should the proposal be approved, the Welsh clubs would remain within the English football pyramid but would forego eligibility to qualify for Europe via English competitions such as the FA Cup or Premier League. Instead, participation in the Welsh League Cup could serve as a new pathway to European competition, with a primary objective of improving the status and visibility of Welsh football on the continental stage.

The financial benefits from potential European qualification would be shared across Welsh football, including Cymru Premier clubs, who have voiced their support for the initiative. These funds would contribute towards the development of grassroots football, domestic clubs, and the women’s game in Wales. Cymru Premier teams are also expected to welcome the opportunity to compete

against Wales’ top EFL sides in the Welsh League Cup.

Additionally, the move is anticipated to bolster Wales’ UEFA club coefficient, which currently ranks 50th out of 55 European nations. The inclusion of EFL sides in Welsh competition could help elevate this ranking, aiming for a position of 40th or higher. Last month, Cymru Premier champions The New Saints made history as the first club from the Welsh domestic league to reach the group stage of a major European competition, where they will face teams such as Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League. It is hoped that further success from Welsh clubs could build on this achievement and solidify Wales’ standing within UEFA.

The history of Welsh clubs in Europe is rich, though sparse in recent years. Cardiff City last appeared in a European competition in 1994, suffering an 8-3 aggregate defeat to Standard Liège in the Cup Winners’ Cup, a competition in which they famously beat Real Madrid 1-0 in 1971. Swansea City’s memorable 3-0 victory over Valencia in the Europa

League came in 2013, where they eventually progressed to the round of 32. Wrexham’s last European journey was in 1995, while Newport County reached the Cup Winners’ Cup quarterfinals in 1981.

A section of the Prosiect Cymru report highlights the unique challenges faced by Welsh football clubs, stating: “Welsh football is in a unique position within European football in that its largest clubs play in the domestic league of another country (England). This has historically limited the ability of Welsh domestic clubs to be competitive in UEFA club competitions. An innovative solution to address this position has transformational potential for the whole Welsh football ecosystem from grassroots to the professional men’s and women’s game.”

With Prosiect Cymru, the FAW and Welsh clubs hope to redefine Welsh football’s position within Europe, both strengthening the domestic game and offering fans the prospect of renewed European competition for some of Wales’ most beloved clubs.

Bluebirds unbeaten run extends to eight

HAVERFORDWEST County AFC stretched their unbeaten run to eight matches with a 0-0 stalemate against Caernarfon Town at LHP Stadium on Saturday (Oct 26). Despite dominating much of the game, the Bluebirds couldn’t find the net, settling for a single point.

The home side’s best chances came from Ben Ahmun and Ben Fawcett, who tested the Canaries’ defence but ultimately fell short. County’s backline was formidable, with Lee Jenkins making a critical late clearance off the line to secure their ninth clean sheet in 14 league matches. This result keeps the Bluebirds second in the JD Cymru Premier as they prepare for a crucial match against Flint Town United next weekend.

Manager Tony Pennock made three changes following the JD Welsh Cup win over Trethomas Bluebirds. Zac Jones took over in goal from last week’s penalty hero, Ifan Knott, while Lee Jenkins and Corey Shephard returned to the starting lineup. Maltese international Luke Tabone marked his 50th appearance, anchoring the defence alongside Jenkins and Kyle McCarthy.

The Bluebirds opened confidently, with Rhys Abbruzzese testing Caernarfon’s defence early. After his free-kick was blocked, his follow-up shot sailed over the bar. Soon after, Corey Shephard’s deflected effort required a save from Canaries’ keeper Stephen McMullan.

Caernarfon threatened in the 30th minute when Zack Clarke’s long-range attempt missed the mark. Moments later, a precise pass from McCarthy allowed Ahmun to slip through the defence, but his shot narrowly missed the right post. Luke Tabone had a chance to score on his milestone appearance from a setpiece, though his header lacked direction.

County nearly broke the deadlock early in the second half when Ahmun threaded a dangerous pass across goal, narrowly missed by Fawcett. Substitute Owain Jones and Greg Walters kept the pressure on Caernarfon’s defence, but the Canaries remained resolute.

Caernarfon’s determination almost paid off in the dying moments as substitute Adam Davies rounded keeper Zac Jones. However, Jenkins’ timely goalline clearance ensured the game finished scoreless.

St. Ishmaels triumph over Solva in Senior Cup

ST. ISHMAELS hosted Division

Two challengers Solva in an eagerly anticipated Senior Cup fixture this weekend, and with Division One competition heating up, the match promised excitement.

Despite a difficult start to their league season, St. Ishmaels—once pegged for relegation—have recently proven their mettle, showing remarkable form that now sets them apart as a rising force in Division One. Solva, aware of the formidable task ahead, arrived determined to topple the in-form hosts. With the Tish grounds in immaculate

condition, the teams took to the field in a clash that highlighted St. Ishmaels’ dynamic blend of youthful energy and seasoned composure. Right from the start, Solva struggled to counter Tish’s relentless pace, orchestrated by the ever-tenacious Ieuan Hawkins and anchored by defensive leader Brennan Devonald. By halftime, St. Ishmaels had firmly asserted control, with Nathan Thomas, Hawkins, and Finley Armstrong each netting a goal to secure a commanding 3-0 lead.

Refusing to surrender, Solva launched a spirited second-half push in

search of a comeback. However, Tish’s defensive unit, led by captain Devonald and bolstered by Hawkins’ relentless energy, stifled any Solva advances. An unfortunate deflection by Devonald gifted Solva a consolation goal in the 80th minute, but he redeemed himself moments later with a towering header, sealing the match at 4-1 to the delight of the home crowd.

Despite the loss, Solva’s resilience shone through, with their standout player, Josh Bland, battling fiercely against Devonald’s commanding defense. St. Ishmaels, meanwhile, can

look to this win as another positive step in a season full of promise.

Commendations are due to both teams for the spirit of the match; the referee left his cards unused, a testament to the fair play displayed. Local supporters and club officials deserve praise for their efforts in fostering such thriving village clubs, bringing renewed energy to teams like Tish and Solva.

Best of luck to St. Ishmaels in the next round, and here’s to a promising season for Solva!

Clarbeston Road 5 - Neyland 2

CUP holders Clarbeston Road triumphed over a spirited Neyland side with a decisive 5-2 victory at the Athletic Ground on Saturday (Oct 25), thanks to a brace from striker Ben John, along with goals from wideman Laurie Haworth and midfielder Mathew Davies.

Haworth opened the scoring within the first 20 seconds, capitalising on a defensive error straight from the Nomads’ kick-off, leaving the goalkeeper stranded as he easily slotted the ball into an empty net. Mathew Fox’s side controlled the game with a rapid offensive strategy, moving the ball efficiently across the pitch. However, despite their dominance, they struggled to convert their possession into a clear second goal.

The equaliser came in the ninth minute when Neyland skipper Mike Chandler’s corner was partially cleared, allowing their central midfielder to volley the ball with precision over the outstretched hand of visiting keeper Rhys Mansell.

Though back on level terms, the Division Two league leaders held their ground for only six minutes. Clarbeston’s

skipper found John in the box, who reclaimed the lead, soon followed by a superb assist from man of the match Haworth, setting up Davies to make it 3-1 by the half-hour mark. Five minutes before the break, Haworth showcased his quick feet and pace, converting a defence-splitting pass from midfielder Travis Jones into a fourth goal. John rounded off the first half in added time, making it 5-1 just as referee Jonathan Twigg blew his whistle.

After a half-time pep talk from manager Gavin Rowlands, Neyland reorganised and pushed higher up the pitch. Yet Clarbeston’s defenders, including substitute Liam James, Dan Rees, and Llew George, held their lines firmly. Neyland’s persistence paid off with a consolation goal from Ben Gale with a quarter-hour remaining.

Despite appearing the fitter side as the game neared its conclusion, Neyland could not close the gap further. Clarbeston Road now moves forward into the third round of the 24/25 Senior Cup. A poignant minute of silence was held before kick-off in memory of former Neyland player Gary Power.

division one: Round up

Hakin United 2 Monkton Swifts 0

HAKIN UNITED clinched a vital 2-0 win over Monkton Swifts, reducing the points gap with league leaders Goodwick United to just four. Jack Britton led the charge for the Vikings, scoring both goals at the Obs.

The first came early, capitalizing on a defensive slip from the Swifts, allowing Britton to finish from close range. Hakin continued their offensive, with Mark Jones almost doubling the lead from a powerful header, only to be thwarted by a stunning save from Swifts’ goalkeeper, Taylor Gullam. The visitors’ day worsened in the second half with a red card, and Britton took full advantage, netting his second with a well-placed header off Leon Luby’s corner. This result keeps Hakin firmly in the title race as they push for the top.

Milford United 1

Merlins Bridge 4

MERLINS Bridge showcased their second-half dominance in a 4-1 victory over Milford United at Marble Hall. The game began with a close first half, as Tomos Gwilliam opened the scoring for the Wizards, while Liam Parks came close to equalizing. However, Merlins Bridge pulled away after the break. Nathan Evans struck a powerful shot to reclaim the lead, and shortly after, Gwilliam set up Hayden Dimond for a deft header. Dimond later won a penalty, confidently converting it to secure his brace. This commanding

Budget cuts threaten future of welsh grassroots and

Budget constraints threaten grassroots and national sports, the Welsh Sports Association (WSA) chief executive Andrew Howard told the Senedd’s culture committee. Representing 140 organizations, Howard said real-terms cuts have hit the sector almost annually since 2012, leading to layoffs and talent loss as staff move to England or leave the field. Howard praised Sport Wales for shouldering 7% of this year’s 10.5% government cut but warned further cuts would impact grassroots programs and national teams.

Citing the reduction of a Weightlifting Wales campaign by 50%, Howard highlighted the toll on initiatives

addressing social issues. Fergus Feeney, Swim Wales CEO, raised concerns about accessibility, noting lessons cost about £8 for 30 minutes, which most families can’t afford, and that only 35% of children meet swimming standards by year six. With most Welsh pools over 20 years old, some competitions are held in Liverpool due to facility shortages, which Feeney called “embarrassing.”

Netball Wales CEO Vicki Sutton noted that budget cuts forced the ninthranked Welsh netball team to scale back from aiming for the top six. Howard pointed out that other UK regions see fewer cuts and more support, calling for a change in Welsh funding priorities.

win underscored Merlins Bridge’s attacking strength and resilience.

Herbrandston 4

Carew 5

IN a dramatic clash at the bottom of the table, Carew triumphed over Herbrandston 5-4 in a match filled with goals. Herbrandston looked in control, leading 4-2 at halftime, with Matthew Jones and Adam Whatling scoring two each. However, a determined Carew mounted a comeback, as Shaun Whitfield struck twice in quick succession to equalize before Marcus Griffiths scored the decisive goal in the 79th minute. Herbrandston, despite their strong first-half showing, was left stunned by the Rooks’ spirited comeback.

Tenby 3

Pennar Robins 2

A HAT-TRICK from Scott Ferney propelled Tenby to a hard-fought 3-2 win over Pennar Robins at the Clicketts. Ferney opened with a skilful chip over Pennar’s keeper Rory Williams. The Robins responded swiftly, with Cameron Brunton’s deflected shot and a header from Ben Adams putting them ahead. Tenby equalized under controversy when Ferney appeared offside but was allowed to play on. Ferney then sealed the win in the 86th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Pennar. His clinical finishing proved crucial in this tense encounter filled with intense action and close calls.

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