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Arrests made after large-scale cannabis operation raided
POLICE in Pembroke Dock have uncovered yet another large-scale cannabis operation, as part of an ongoing clampdown on illegal farms in the area. On Monday (Nov 4), DyfedPowys Police executed a search warrant at a property on Dimond Street, where officers found over 500 cannabis plants in a sophisticated cultivation setup.
Two men, aged 26 and 34, have been arrested in connection with the investigation and are currently in police custody. The raid follows a series of similar operations in Pembrokeshire, targeting properties used for illegal drug cultivation.
Carmarthenshire fireworks display descends into chaos
A FIREWORKS display at Mynyddygarreg Hall near Kidwelly turned chaotic on Tuesday (Nov 5) as rockets flew into the crowd, hitting spectators and leaving families in distress.
Rhian, a mother at the event, recounted the terrifying experience, stating her children were traumatised after being struck by fireworks. Her seven-year-old son, Oliver, suffered a hit to his neck, while her other son, Charlie, aged eleven, was hit on the ear. “They were coming towards us and
going off,” Rhian said. “We didn’t know where to turn, so we rushed back as fast as we could.”
Witnesses reported the incident occurred within three minutes of the display starting, but organisers failed to halt the event. Families expressed frustration, highlighting the lack of safety measures and staff assistance. Danielle Evans, another mother in attendance, shared: “Fireworks were repeatedly
coming at us…an announcement should’ve been made for people to leave safely.”
Videos shared on social media depict chaotic scenes, with panicked parents shielding children from fireworks that continued to explode in close proximity. Parents reported hearing “the screams of terrified children and adults,” as they struggled to escape the display area.
Spectators, including a mother whose seven-year-old daughter was nearly hit in the face, are calling for a full investigation, questioning the event’s safety protocols and lack of immediate response. “The organisers displayed complete disregard for public safety,” stated Wendy Pearce, who left the venue after her five-year-old daughter narrowly avoided injury.
Outcry on social media
Attendees have flooded social media with criticism, some suggesting the organisers’ decision to continue the show was a deliberate attempt to avoid issuing refunds. One spectator, Adam Moreton, said: “Staff were just standing at the gate, oblivious to what happened. This needs answers.”
The Herald reached out to event organisers for a statement, but no response was received at the time of publication.
Many attendees are now calling for stricter safety regulations at public fireworks displays. Local parents argue that crowd safety measures, including fire safety officers and first aid staff, should be mandatory.
Van crashes into chalet at Pembrokeshire holiday park
A VAN collided with a chalet at Freshwater Holiday Park in Pembroke last month.
The incident occurred on October 29 at approximately 5:45pm. A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of a single-vehicle collision at Freshwater Holiday Park at around 5:45pm on October 29. No injuries were reported, and there are
no further police enquiries.”
According to a local resident, the crash left a dent on the front of the chalet, marking the fourth time such an incident has occurred. The resident expressed frustration, saying: “This is an accident waiting to happen, and it doesn’t seem that anybody on the management team is doing anything about it.”
Suspended sentence for Goodwick man who sent sexual messages to young girl
THE FATHER of a young girl sent sexual messages to an individual he believed to be a 12-year-old girl online, Swansea Crown Court heard this week.
An undercover police officer posed as a 12-year-old girl on the website RandoChat, with the decoy’s profile stating they were 18.
James Roberts messaged the decoy on 9 August, stating he was “looking for a naughty girl”.
The decoy promptly informed him that she was 12 years old; however, the defendant continued to send messages referencing sexual acts and selfgratification.
Roberts added the decoy on Snapchat, claiming to be 19 and living in England.
He again sent sexualised messages and, referring to the decoy’s age, said they were “never too young to start sending pictures”.
The defendant also told the decoy that he was having similar sexual conversations with a 14-year-old, Mr Dickens said.
Police attended Roberts’ home in Goodwick on 17 August, and he was arrested. He denied having a mobile phone, claiming he “had sent it off to Samsung to be fixed” but was “extremely vague” when asked for further details. Mr Dickens said no phone was ever recovered by police.
The 28-year-old Roberts pleaded guilty to attempted sexual communication with a child. The court heard that he had no previous convictions.
Hannah George, in mitigation, said the defendant showed “some degree of remorse” and that there was a realistic prospect of rehabilitation.
“In the 13 months since he was interviewed there have been no further offences,” she said.
Ms George said Roberts had suffered “significant” shame and embarrassment as a result of the offences, and it had led to him losing his job.
He had previously been diagnosed with PTSD and suffered “deep periods of depression”, Ms George said.
She added that his contact with his young daughter “has been diminished” following these offences.
“You were in contact online with who you firmly believed to be a 12-yearold girl,” said Judge Paul Thomas KC, addressing Roberts.
“You have a two-year-old daughter. Just think how you would feel if a man in his thirties tried to have that sort of conversation with her in 10 years’ time.” Roberts was sentenced to 30 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for two years. He must complete 35 days of an accredited programme and 25 rehabilitation activity requirement programme days.
He must also register as a sex offender for 10 years and was made the subject of a three-year sexual harm prevention order.
Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email
Click to watch video
Large fire at Bramble Hall Farm – Arson suspected
FIREFIGHTERS have brought a large blaze under control at Bramble Hall Farm in Pembroke Dock.
The fire broke out in a portacabin filled with tyres and scrap materials late on Tuesday night (Nov 5).
The alarm was raised at 11:34pm by the farm owner, who reported being woken by loud bangs.
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock Fire Stations were dispatched to the scene.
On arrival, firefighters found a shipping container with mixed scrap and around 100 tyres fully alight. The crews used four breathing apparatus sets, a ground monitor, a 45mm jet, two hose reel jets, and a water bowser to tackle the fire.
The blaze was fully extinguished by 5:07am on Wednesday morning (Nov 6), after crews worked through the night to contain the flames and dampen down remaining hotspots.
A local resident, Sean Burns, who was present at the scene, suspects the fire may have been started deliberately and has provided information to authorities, who are investigating the cause.
Fire strikes popular pub – no staff or customers hurt
A FIRE broke out at The Bristol Trader pub on Quay Street, Haverfordwest, today (Wednesday, Nov 6), impacting two floors and the roof space of the popular establishment.
Firefighters from Haverfordwest and Milford Haven stations responded to the scene at 11:38am, spending around two hours battling the blaze. Smoke was seen billowing from the building as Dyfed-Powys Police closed Quay Street, advising drivers to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
A spokesperson for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews responded to a commercial fire in a two-storey building, measuring approximately 50m by 30m. The fire began on the first floor, spread to the second floor and roof space. Crews utilised eight breathing apparatus sets, four hose reel jets, one 45mm main jet, small gear, and a turntable ladder.”
Fire crews departed the scene at 1:58pm, and the police reopened Quay Street at 2:15pm.
No injuries were reported, and in a Facebook post, The Bristol Trader reassured customers that all staff members were safe.
Raw sewage released into Cleddau at Haverfordwest
TWENTY tanker loads of untreated sewage per day were illegally discharged into a Pembrokeshire river last year, a local campaign group claims.
Research from The Cleddau Project (TCP) has revealed that approximately 55,814 cubic metres of raw sewage flowed into a conservation area along the River Cleddau. The discharge reportedly came from the Picton Playing Fields combined sewage overflow (CSO) pipe near Haverfordwest Skate Park.
The sewage was supposed to be diverted to Merlins Bridge sewage works for treatment. Instead, it poured directly into the Cleddau for an estimated 18 months, TCP claims.
Volunteers from TCP, a communityled organisation focused on water quality, report observing multiple incidents of untreated sewage spilling from the Picton Playing Fields overflow pipe. They documented evidence of wet wipes, sanitary products, and other waste, allegedly violating Welsh Water’s permit regulations.
Despite TCP’s repeated pollution reports to Natural Resources Wales (NRW), the group expressed frustration over what they perceive as a lack of action from the regulator. Determined to address the issue, they filed environmental information requests with Welsh Water, seeking pump performance data from July 2022 onward. Their analysis reportedly revealed “catastrophic underperformance” of pumps at Picton Playing Fields.
The group’s investigation suggests that substantial volumes of untreated sewage were entering the Cleddau over the period. According to TCP, corrective action wasn’t taken by Welsh Water until after NRW’s compliance visit in June
Tom
Sinclair editor@herald.email
2023. Even then, it took until March of this year for new pumps to be installed, restoring compliance.
Following the June 2023 visit, NRW allegedly classified the incident as “minor,” a decision TCP strongly contests. The group argues that the volume of untreated sewage discharged into a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) river signals a deeper issue involving both Welsh Water and NRW.
TCP members believe earlier intervention by Welsh Water and NRW could have mitigated much of the pollution.
NRW has since issued a statement, insisting Welsh Water “must do better” and that the Picton Playing Fields pumping station is currently under a separate legal investigation.
Huwel Manley, NRW’s Head of Operations in the South West, said: “Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) must improve its compliance with permitted flow conditions across Wales.
“In June 2023, NRW was alerted to issues at Picton Sewage Pumping Station in Haverfordwest. Welsh Water committed to installing new pumps by 31 October 2023, and a Compliance Assessment Report (CAR) was issued. When the deadline was missed, another CAR was issued, escalating the matter to a formal warning.”
According to NRW, the installation of new pumps was completed in February 2024.
NRW also highlighted its aim for record environmental investment in the next funding cycle and plans to increase regulatory oversight of water companies.
Welsh Water has apologised for its “performance shortfall” and
acknowledged TCP’s contributions to monitoring water quality. A Welsh Water spokesperson stated: “We recognise that our performance has not met expectations on this occasion, and we apologise for that.
“We have been working closely with the Cleddau Project, a citizen science group we support financially, to share data and information as part of our commitment to transparency.”
Welsh Water further disclosed that a flow monitor installed at the Picton Fields pumping station provided early insights into performance issues. The spokesperson explained that the problem stemmed from pump controls, which required a specialised control panel with a 26-week lead time. Installation began in December 2023, and the station became operational in January.
The spokesperson added, “We expect the SPS to be compliant with its flow permit for 2024.”
While noting that much of the phosphate pollution in the Cleddau
originates from rural land use, Welsh Water reaffirmed its commitment to reducing its impact. Plans include a £9.4 million investment at treatment sites in Letterston, Spittal, and Rosemarket, as well as a £100 million improvement programme between 2025 and 2030. However, TCP remains concerned that these measures may fall short.
“This pollution poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems, public health, and the quality of Pembrokeshire’s iconic waterway,” a TCP spokesperson warned.
“The investigation underscores the urgent need for systemic reform in NRW’s regulatory approach. Prompt action on public reports, use of sensor data, and timely repairs could have prevented much of this pollution. Yet neither Welsh Water nor NRW has implemented these basic safeguards.
“The public expects and deserves meaningful improvements from regulators and water companies. The Cleddau is in serious trouble. Change is essential.”
Trainee plumber admits damaging vehicle whilst on a bender
A TRAINEE plumber who consumed so much alcohol that ‘he didn’t know what he was doing’ has appeared before magistrates charged with interfering with two cars parked in Pembroke town centre.
In the early hours of October 6, police officers saw Ethan Pender, 20, sitting inside a Ford Fiesta parked in Main Street.
“The interior lights were on, so this naturally attracted the officers’ attention,” Crown Prosecution Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.
When the officers questioned Pender about what he was doing, he told them it was his parent’s vehicle, however a subsequent vehicle check confirmed it belonged to someone else residing in the area.
Pender, who is currently enrolled on a plumbing course at Pembrokeshire College, pleaded guilty to a similar charge of entering a parked BMW.
“The contents of a First Aid box were strewn all over the seats and the lock on the central console was broken,” continued Ms Vaughan. She confirmed that no items had been stolen from either vehicle.
However Pender’s solicitor Tom Lloyd, claimed the offences were committed following a drinking spree.
“He was extremely intoxicated and had got to the state where he couldn’t remember what he was doing,” he said. “There was no targeting of any vehicles, and no damage was caused to them.”
But the magistrates failed to be swayed by Mr Lloyd’s mitigation.
“You’re claiming you were so drunk that you don’t remember what was going on, but we don’t buy that at all,” said the presiding magistrate.
As a result, magistrates requested an oral probation report prior to sentencing, however chief probation officer Julie Norman requested an adjournment as a result of Pender’s history of court orders and cautions.
“We consider him to be at high risk of reoffending,” said Ms Norman.
Sentencing was adjourned to November 26 and Pender was released on conditional bail, the conditions being that he obeys a daily curfew between 8pm and 7am and he lives and sleeps at his home address at Central Court, Milford Haven.
Covid Inquiry uncovers huge hole in Welsh data
THE NUMBER of care and NHS staff who died as a result of workplace infection with Covid is probably around 3.5 times higher than Public Health Wales statistics state.
However, no definitive figure is available. A form used to capture vital data failed to capture the information needed, as important questions could be left incomplete. That means the statistical basis for the Welsh Government’s response to the pandemic was out of kilter with reality and led to poor-quality decisions.
FORM FILLING FAILURE
The reason for the understatement is as mundane as it is unbelievable.
In April 2020, Public Health Wales (PHW) rolled out a form to record detailed data about Covid fatalities. The form’s design allowed clinical staff to record key data about each death. Alongside basic data, such as age and sex, the form had a check box to indicate if the deceased was a key worker. However, the form was often only partly completed, and almost a fifth of the information it was intended to capture was missing from the final data.
Professor Fu-Meng Khaw confirmed the position while giving evidence to the third module of the UK Covid Inquiry on Tuesday, November 5.
The professor is the National Director of Health Protection and Screening Services and Executive Medical Director for Public Health Wales. He joined Public Health Wales in March 2021. The Inquiry’s third module is considering the pandemic’s impact on healthcare systems.
At the pandemic’s outset, Public Health Wales was able to ascertain the number of people suffering from Covid in Wales. However, once the pandemic took hold and the number of infections increased, it encountered problems in handling data and obtaining the details needed to assess its progress among different groups.
The pandemic’s rapid spread and the need to gather data also encountered another problem: Welsh NHS bureaucracy. Vital data was routinely not available to the Welsh Government or NHS Wales until clinical coding took place three months post-event. In the pandemic’s context, that created a huge and potentially dangerous lag between a patient’s death and detailed information being received to inform pandemic responses.
THE INFORMATION DEFICIT
As things stood at the time, the Welsh Government, Public Health Wales and health boards realised that the information coming from clinical settings about the pandemic was incomplete and unreliable.
Baroness Hallett, the Inqury Chair, pointed out that the information gap meant that Public Health Wales had virtually no idea of what was going on in the community. Professor Khaw agreed with her assessment.
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To resolve those problems, throughout April 2020, Public Health Wales, the Welsh Government and health boards worked together to construct an electronic reporting form. The form captured crucial real-time data and would’ve been a valuable tool in tracking the impact on Welsh healthcare and whether particular groups were more at risk than others.
The form was rolled out on April 23, 2020. It was accompanied by supporting documents, instructions, and a training video on its use.
The form recorded 6,514 deaths throughout its life. However, over 1,000 elements of data are missing in the question about key worker status.
The form asked, “Was the patient a key worker?” Five different buttons
were displayed, one of which was “a healthcare worker.”
Despite that, Professor Khaw told the Covid Inquiry: “We do not hold data in respect of the number of staff within healthcare settings in Wales recorded as having died of COVID-19.”
The data on the form records 36 deaths from Covid among health and social care staff during the pandemic. However, more reliable Office for National Statistics information, compiled from more solid clinical data, estimates there were at least three-and-a-half times that number.
WG IGNORED EXPERTS ON COVID IMPACT
The Welsh Government also significantly overestimated the “reasonable worst-case scenario” and its impact on the Welsh NHS’s ability to function. Despite Public Health Wales experts advocating for a 25% likelihood of the “reasonable worst-case scenario”, the Welsh Government chose a higher 40% probability of it. During the pandemic’s critical first phase, the Welsh NHS experienced only 7% of the worst-case scenario.
That means the Welsh Government over-engineered its response to the pandemic. What the Welsh Government planned for did not happen.
The wider consequences are the over-commitment of scarce resources in a public health emergency and the claimed impact of the pandemic on Welsh NHS capacity being less than the Welsh Government chose to predict and subsequently claimed.
It could be argued from the above that the pandemic’s impact on the Welsh NHS was less than expected and claimed. If that’s not the case, it suggests the Welsh NHS’s pre-pandemic ability to deal with an emergency was worse than the Welsh Government acknowledged at the time and afterwards.
Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email
Despite Public Health Wales’s central role in responding to public health emergencies, it was omitted from discussions and decisions on key elements of the pandemic’s handling in Wales.
There were more than 10,000 probable or definite hospital-acquired cases of Covid in Wales over the pandemic period.
In December 2020, a senior public health official in Wales reported: “Organisations and bodies will pressure us to take more precautionary measures.
“The confidence of staff in high intensity units is being lost. If there is a high-risk pathway we should take precautionary measures.”
By that time, it was widely known that ventilation was an essential element to control Covid’s spread. However, Public Health Wales was not consulted on how it might be implemented. The division
of responsibilities with Welsh NHS bodies, advisory groups, ad-hoc Welsh Government working groups, and Welsh NHS executives and ministers meant lines of responsibility were blurred and responsibility diluted.
As an example, Public Health Wales did not issue any guidance on restricting hospital visits by patients’ relatives. Instead, a hospital visiting group established by Wales’s Chief Nursing Officer advised the Welsh Government on the issue.
While absence of evidence is not evidence of absence, Professor Khaw had no evidence that the important role of a patient’s family was ever taken into account when deciding to restrict visiting.
Neither did Public Health Wales provide advice about any aspect of the support or health advice that should be offered to those who were shielding or their families.
It didn’t because it was never asked. If the body supposedly responsible for Wales’s public health, and incidentally for the Welsh response to disease outbreaks, was not asked for its advice, who was?
The picture of health administration in Wales that has emerged from the Covid Inquiry is one of an NHS overloaded with bureaucracy, blurred or non-existent lines of responsibility, administrative waste and duplication, an inability to ensure essential information is recorded, and data practices that mean ministers may as well stick a wet finger in the wind to determine its reliability.
The need for a Wales-specific Covid Inquiry has never been clearer. The more layers are peeled away to expose the workings underneath, the more obvious the urgency of top-to-bottom Welsh NHS reform is. But nothing was done.
Bin lorry driver banned after “squishing” man in road rage incident
RHYS GRIFFITHS, a former bin lorry driver, has been banned from driving after injuring a man by colliding with his car door during a road confrontation on St Issels Avenue, Haverfordwest, on 22 February 2023.
Swansea Crown Court heard from Prosecutor Harry Dickens that Griffiths,
Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email
32, accelerated towards the victim’s vehicle, stopping bumper-to-bumper.
Following a brief verbal exchange, the victim turned back to his car, only to hear Griffiths rev his engine, mount the kerb,
and strike the driver-side door, pinning the man against his own car. Though the victim felt pain in his thighs, he did not require medical attention, and only minor damage was reported to the car. Griffiths left the scene without stopping, and a witness alerted the police. The victim later told officers: “There was no need for this incident at all.”
Griffiths initially pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving, later changing his plea to guilty on the day of his trial. His defence lawyer, Emily Bennett, expressed Griffiths’ “deep shame” over the incident, noting he had been redeployed from his job as a bin lorry driver due to the offence.
Judge Paul Thomas KC described Griffiths’ actions as “incredibly stupid” and sentenced him to 10 months, suspended for 18 months. Griffiths must complete 100 hours of unpaid work, 25 rehabilitation days, and pay £1,200 in costs due to the lateness of his plea. Additionally, he was disqualified from driving for 12 months and must pass an extended driving test to regain his licence.
Mother admits driving child to school over legal drug limit
A MOTHER has been fined for driving her toddler to school whilst unfit through drugs.
Haverfordwest magistrates were told this week that teachers at Fenton School, Haverfordwest became concerned at Sophie Boswell’s demeanour when she arrived at the school on April 17.
Police officers were asked to attend the scene, and subsequent blood tests carried out on the 30-year-old mother at the police station revealed she had 1200 mcg of diazepam in her system. The legal limit is 550.
“My client was going through an extremely difficult period in her life,” her solicitor, Tom Lloyd, told the court.
“She suffers historically from an addiction to prescription drugs after the loss of her father, and things got completely out of control.
“But this offence has given her the opportunity to reassess her life and she’s taken significant steps, off her own back, to make sure that nothing like this will happen again, jeopardising her having custody of her child, because that’s the most important thing in the world for her.”
After pleading guilty to driving a vehicle whilst unfit through drugs, Boswell was disqualified from driving for 14 months.
“We’re concerned that this offence took place at a school and that your driving was attracting attention,” commented the presiding magistrates. “This is why we are raising the ban from 12 months to 14.”
Bowell was also fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £32 court surcharge.
Professor Fu-Meng Khaw: Gave troubling evidence to Covid Inquiry
Hospital visiting: Wales’s public health agency not asked for input on restrictions
Shoplifter sentenced for two Pembrokeshire thefts
A SHOPLIFTER has appeared before magistrates after admitting stealing food and alcohol from two stores in Pembroke Dock
John Ashby, 37, was seen stealing two crates of San Miguel lager valued at £22 from B&M Bargains on July 8 while on Hallowe’en of this year he entered the Farm Foods store, and stole 12 food items valued at £80.61.
His solicitor, Michael Kellher, said that the offences were committed after Ashby relocated to Pembrokeshire from London, where he was employed as a bricklayer.
“He’s always been in employment, but since moving to Pembrokeshire he hasn’t been able to find a job,” he said. “He hasn’t signed on for Universal Credit with the result that he stole the foodstuffs out of necessity.”
Meanwhile probation officer Julie Norman said that Ashby’s Halloween theft was committed after the defendant had been placed on a Community Order, imposed on September 24, for a previous shoplifting conviction.
“Having said that, he’s attended all appointments with the probation service,” she said. “The Community Order was given following his first ever conviction, so he doesn’t trouble the courts on a regular basis.”
After asking to address the magistrates, Ashby apologised to the court for his behaviour.
“I’m not a bad person,” he said. “I’ve worked since the age of 16, but I’m not excusing my behaviour.”
Ashby was fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £32 surcharge. He must also pay £80.61 compensation to Farm Foods and £22 compensation to B&M.
Quayside scheme approved by planners
A SCHEME to refurbish a quayside building in Haverfordwest’s conservation area, along with works to the existing Haverhub community hub has been backed by county planners.
The application, by Gitti Coats, for the refurbishment and extension of Haverfordwest’s Quayside Building to form multi-functional community spaces, along with an extension to the bar building to create a first-floor terrace at Quay Street was recommended for conditional approval at the November 5 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee.
A report for planners said: “The application site comprises of two existing buildings and associated outdoor area located within the Quayside area of Haverfordwest. One of the buildings is known as the Quayside Building, which fronts the quayside and is currently vacant. The second building, which currently addresses Quay Street to the west, is known as the ‘Haverhub’ community hub.”
The Grade-II-listed Haverhub building, is a former post office, described as “a finely designed neoGeorgian Post Office in Bath stone,” built in 1934-6 for the General Post Office (GPO), and “is an example of the high quality neo-Georgian post offices of the inter-war period”.
A report for planners said the Quayside building would increase in height from approximately 7.9 metres to 11.7 metres with the creation of a second floor and accommodation within the roof space, the ground floor utilised for space in connection with a
performance space within the Haverhub building.
To the first floor would be a multifunction room, which would also connect to a proposed bar area and associated first floor terrace which includes outdoor seating. The second floor of the Quayside building would include a second multi-function and meeting room.
The main Haverhub building would be extended to provide a gallery and entrance lobby. The existing bar and kitchen would also be extended.
The Haverhub building was granted a change of use to a community hub in 2018, with the use and building benefiting from a ground floor internal outdoor courtyard area, which is located below the proposed first floor terrace.
The report said that, as there is already an outside space for the community hub to utilise “the addition of the first-floor seating area would not
create a significantly greater impact in terms of noise generation or impact on amenity than the existing outdoor area to the ground floor”.
Speaking at the November 5 meeting, Gitti Coates said Haverhub had spent the last eight years “recognising the real value of abandoned buildings,” with “a desire to see something positive happening for the town”.
She said the “iconic” quayside building had been purchased with “a significant contribution from Pembrokeshire County Council’s Enhancing Pembrokeshire fund”.
Committee chair Cllr Simon Hancock, who moved approval, described the scheme as “marvellous,” saying it would be “a distinct improvement” to the area, with Haverhub “doing the most remarkable job in trying to regenerate the town”.
Cllr Mark Carter said: “A wonderful scheme, something the town is going to be proud of.”
The application was unanimously approved by members.
Police arrest suspects following vehicle interferences
HAVERFORDWEST police responded swiftly after reports of multiple vehicle interferences in the Tasker Way area on Sunday night/early Monday morning (Nov 4).
Officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPPT) conducted
extensive house-to-house enquiries, gathering evidence and reassuring the community. These efforts led to the identification of two suspects.
Both NPPT and Response teams acted promptly, locating and arresting the suspects, who are now in police custody.
Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter
Nurse suspended after striking patient
A NURSE has been suspended for 12 months after striking an elderly patient during a challenging incident at Withybush Hospital.
The suspension followed an incident in May 2022 on the trauma and orthopaedic ward, where nurse Primrose James, described as experienced and respected, was assisting an 80-year-old man known as Patient D. The patient, who had been recovering from a broken hip for six months, had a history of lashing out at staff.
A healthcare assistant who witnessed the event reported that James had struck the patient across his face and tapped his cheek after he had hit her. Recalling the incident, the assistant told the panel: “Primrose was standing beside the bed when she struck him across the face and
then tapped him on the cheek, telling him off for hitting out.”
Reflecting on the incident, Ms. James expressed regret, noting her intention was never to harm patients.
“This was a difficult encounter in a fast-moving situation,” she stated.
“Knowing his history of aggression, I should have anticipated he might strike out, but I reacted instinctively in the moment.”
ALLEGATIONS REVIEWED
At the Nursing and Midwifery Council hearing, Ms. James faced multiple allegations. Two were substantiated: that she struck the patient and tapped his cheek.
Allegations that she had acted further aggressively by pressing on his forehead and making unprofessional
comments were dismissed as unproven.
The panel acknowledged Ms. James’s previously unblemished 16year career, her extensive experience with dementia patients, and her immediate remorse following the incident. It was noted that Patient D’s aggressive behaviour was a recurring issue on the ward, and despite staff regularly facing his outbursts, no measures had been implemented by senior staff to manage the situation.
NEED FOR SUPPORT
In its decision, the panel criticised the lack of support for managing Patient D’s behaviour, stating: “Staff had reported ongoing assaults, yet action to address the patient’s aggression was lacking.”
While the panel determined that Patient D suffered no physical harm, they raised concerns about the potential for psychological distress to the patient and his family.
12-MONTH SUSPENSION
The panel ultimately ruled that a 12-month suspension was necessary to reflect the seriousness of the misconduct, despite Ms. James’s previously clean record and her remorse over the incident. The panel remarked: “This was an isolated incident involving a challenging patient, but a suspension order is warranted to underline the gravity of the incident.”
Ms. James’s suspension is subject to review at the end of the 12 months.
Internet dating app relationship turns sour
AN internet dating app relationship has resulted in a four-figure fine for a Pembrokeshire man after he refused to accept that a two-month relationship was over.
Gareth Thomas, 51, met Rachel Blundell on an unknown dating app in January of this year.
“The relationship lasted for seven or eight weeks, they had meals out together and the defendant stayed over at her property on a few occasions,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.
“The relationship came to an end for whatever reason, but the defendant chose to continue sending her texts which were persistent and unwanted.”
In a victim impact statement read out to the court, Ms Blundell said that Thomas’s persistence left her feeling anxious.
“I’m unsure why he feels the need to contact me, because the relationship is over,” she said.
“He knows where I live and I’m afraid he’ll start causing issues with me. I just want him to accept that the relationship
is over and he’ll leave me alone because it makes me feel alarmed, harassed and distressed. I’m scared about what he might do in the future.”
Thomas, of Gatehouse View, Pembroke, pleaded guilty to a charge of harassment without violence. He was represented in court by Mr Michael Kelleher.
“He agrees that there was repeated contact with Ms Blundell, but there were no threats nor violence.”
Mr Kelleher went on to say that Thomas was confused following Ms Blundell’s decision to terminate the relationship.
“She claimed that her father had been taken ill, but then went onto another dating site, and my client couldn’t quite understand why. He was confused, he didn’t know why it happened, and he was even optimistic that she’d have second thoughts and they could sort things out. He was never once told not to contact her.”
Meanwhile probation officer Charmaine Fox said that Thomas believed the way in which Ms Blundell ended the relationship was ‘a lie’.
Pembrokeshire man admits ‘overstepping’ in stalking case
A HAVERFORDWEST man acknowledged he ‘overstepped’ following charges of home burglary and stalking.
Spencer Lepetit, aged 35 and residing in Hawthorn Rise, faced Swansea Crown Court accused of entering a Pembroke property on August 16 with the intent to steal a mobile phone. Additionally, between September 3 and 19, he allegedly trespassed repeatedly on a woman’s property, made multiple phone calls from an unknown number, and loitered outside her home, causing her significant alarm and distress.
Lepetit denied both charges but accepted responsibility for a lesser stalking offence, which was deemed suitable by Prosecutor Thomas Scapens, leading the Crown Prosecution Service to drop the burglary charge.
Lepetit’s defence, Jon Tarrant, described the circumstances as a result of a “toxic relationship,” stating, “He attempted to reconnect but went beyond acceptable limits.”
Judge Huw Rees ordered a pre-sentence report and remanded Lepetit in custody, with sentencing scheduled for November 22.
Former Haverfordwest man in court charged with intent to supply cannabis and cocaine
“In the past he’s been able to rekindle a relationship, and he thought this may happen again. But things are very different in modern society, and the way people contact each other is now very different.”
Thomas was fined £833 and ordered to pay a £114 surcharge and £85 costs. He was sentenced to a 12-month community order during which he must carry out 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He must also adhere to a 12-month restraining order preventing him from approaching and entering any address which Ms Blundell may reside in and not to enter any electronic data that refers directly to Ms Blundell.
A 35-year-old man has been brought before magistrates charged with possessing cannabis and cocaine in Haverfordwest town centre, with intent to supply both drugs to others.
Nathan Murdoch, formerly of North Court, Haverfordwest, is accused of possessing an unknown quantity of cannabis at an undisclosed location on June 16, 2023 with intent to supply. On the same date it is alleged that he possessed an unknown quantity of the Class A drug cocaine, with intent to supply.
This week Murdoch was brought before Haverfordwest magistrates where he gave his address as Gwyrdd Goed Road, Pontardwe. No pleas were submitted, and magistrates declined jurisdiction. The case will now proceed at Swansea Crown Court on December 6. Murdoch was released on unconditional bail.
Stena announces redundancy plan amid uncertainty
FREIGHT carrier and ferry operator Stena Line, which runs services between Fishguard and Rosslare, has announced plans to cut up to 80 staff members following an internal review.
Uncertainty looms over whether any of these redundancies will impact staff operating our local ferry services.
Stena CEO Paul Grant shared the news in an email to employees on Monday, citing a need to “future proof the company.” He explained that an internal assessment revealed the company’s current organisational structure as “too big and expensive” compared to its revenue.
The decision comes amid rising costs and increased competition in the freight and travel sectors.
According to Mr. Grant, “Cost pressure due to higher inflation has led to our customers having less money to spend, and with the introduction of the
Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email
European Emission Trading Scheme (ETS), increasing our prices, we see a decline in volumes for both travel and freight.” Additionally, disappointing sales during the summer season and unmet market growth expectations for 2024 contributed to the restructuring.
The program, designed to strengthen Stena’s long-term business viability, includes a reduction of costs, prioritization of investments, and staff cuts that will primarily impact support functions and consultants. The workforce will be reduced by 80 positions by early 2025, along with 30 consultants also set to leave the company. Discussions with unions and work councils are expected to last several months, with all affected staff to be informed of their status by January 31, 2025.
In response to this announcement,
the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association (TSSA) has demanded a meeting with Stena Line to clarify the impact of these cuts, particularly on their members.
TSSA General Secretary Maryam Eslamdoust expressed disappointment over the handling of the announcement, stating: “Our members are shocked by this news and outraged that Stena has chosen to sidestep established industrial relations processes. Stena must meet with us urgently to clarify who is at risk and address the potential impacts on our members.”
The layoffs are part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at securing Stena Line’s future amid sustainability challenges. CEO
Niclas Mårtensson acknowledged the difficult decision, stating, “Stena Line has been a successful company over the past few years; however, we need to ensure a lower cost base to be able to future proof the company. With 40 vessels in Europe and the Mediterranean, we have significant sustainability challenges ahead of us, and this program will enable us to make necessary investments for the future.”
The TSSA’s letter to Stena reiterates the union’s commitment to supporting affected employees and calls for an immediate discussion to clarify the situation, especially for staff at Fishguard who may be impacted.
Investigators issue update following train crash
THE Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has issued its latest updates following a rail crash in Wales last month.
On October 21, at approximately 7:26 pm, Transport for Wales passenger train 1J25, en route from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth, collided with train 1S71, the Machynlleth to Shrewsbury service, near Talerddig, Powys. The crash, which occurred on Network Rail’s Cambrian line, claimed the life of one passenger and left four others seriously injured. Eleven additional passengers required hospital treatment. Both trains sustained considerable damage, although neither derailed.
IMMEDIATE RESPONSE
The Rail Accident Investigation
Branch (RAIB) was alerted at 7:45 pm and quickly dispatched inspectors to the site. Working alongside the British Transport Police, Office of Rail and Road, and involved railway companies, RAIB secured evidence to support an independent safety investigation. Network Rail was cleared to begin site repairs on October 23, and the trains were removed by October 25.
PRELIMINARY FINDINGS
The collision involved two 2-car class 158 diesel multiple units equipped with wheel slide protection and automatic sanding systems, designed to improve traction. Both units operate on
the Cambrian line, which uses the European Rail Traffic Management System to transmit signalling data directly to trains, eliminating the need for traditional lineside signals. Initial analysis indicates that train 1J25, headed west, was supposed to stop in a passing loop near Talerddig to allow the eastbound train 1S71 to pass. Data from the on-train recorder shows that 1J25’s driver applied the brakes upon approaching the loop. However, emergency braking was initiated shortly afterward due to persistent wheel slide, which continued until the collision occurred. The westbound train passed through the loop but was unable to stop before rejoining the single track, eventually colliding with train 1S71 about 900 meters beyond the loop.
KEY AREAS OF INVESTIGATION
The RAIB’s ongoing investigation will examine several factors, including:
• The events leading to the collision and the actions of involved personnel
• Levels of wheel/rail adhesion on the approach to Talerddig and at the collision site
• The functionality of train 1J25’s braking, wheel slide protection, and sanding systems
• The response and policies of Transport for Wales and Network Rail regarding low wheel/rail adhesion on the Cambrian line
• Measures taken to manage overrun risks and any relevant underlying issues
RAIB will release further updates as its investigation progresses.
Police appeal following garage burglary in Penally
POLICE are appealing for information following a garage burglary in the School Lane area of Penally, which occurred between 8:00pm and 10:30pm on Saturday, November 2, 2024. Various items were taken, including:
• STIHL battery-operated hedge trimmer
• STIHL petrol garden strimmer
• STIHL petrol chainsaw (24-inch)
• STIHL petrol leaf blower
• Two beach casting fishing rods with reels
Anyone with information, or who may have been offered these items for sale, is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police. You can reach them online at Dyfed-Powys Police Contact, via email at 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101. For those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired, please text 07811 311 908. Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or by visiting crimestoppers-uk.org. Please quote reference number 24000934044.
Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email
Port to potentially oversee Bury Port operations
A LARGE UK port operator is in the frame to take over the running of Carmarthenshire’s only harbour.
Milford Haven Port Authority is in discussions with Carmarthenshire Council, which owns Burry Port harbour, after the previous operator went into administration.
Council cabinet members discussed a harbour report behind closed doors at a meeting in October, the minutes of which said they’d agreed to team up with a “reputable” third party, Milford Haven Port Authority, as soon as legally possible to “develop and sustain” the harbour.
The accumulation of silt and sand at the harbour and concerns about the state of its pontoons have been the
cause of many complaints in recent years. A group, Friends of Burry Port Harbour, has been campaigning for action. The council had awarded a 150-year lease in 2018 to a company called Burry Port Marina Ltd to operate the harbour on its behalf. The company went into administration last year.
Speaking on November 4, cabinet members Cllr Hazel Evans and Cllr Alun Lenny said the council had a legal duty as the harbour authority and as its owner to take reasonable steps to ensure it could be used safely.
“We are, therefore, pleased to be able to update stakeholders and the local community that Carmarthenshire Council are in discussions with a reputable and trusted organisation
to secure the long-term future of the harbour,” they said.
The Port of Milford Haven handles millions of tonnes of liquefied natural gas and various bulk cargo every year. A freight and passenger ferry service to Ireland also operates there. Its chief executive, Tom Sawyer, confirmed it was in discussions with the council about how it could support the marina operation in Burry Port. “As no formal agreement has been made yet it would be inappropriate for us to comment further,” he said.
Bob John, chairman of Friends of Burry Port Harbour, described Milford Haven Port Authority as well-established and experienced. Welcoming its potential involvement,
Mr John said: “Once the formal side of things has been completed we will be looking to have a meeting with the county council.”
The harbour was placed under temporary management following Burry Port Marina Ltd’s administration, and Mr John said there have been some “minor improvements” since such as work at the approach to the harbour channel and the replacement of a barrel post. However, a dredging vessel sank in the harbour in January this year.
Mr John said the number of boat owners who used the harbour had decreased. “It is the only one in Carmarthenshire – it really is a jewel in that respect,” he said.
Black cat ‘size of labrador’ spotted in Pembrokeshire village
CONCERNS are mounting that the Beast of Bodmin could be holidaying in Pembrokeshire following reports that a large black cat, ‘the size of a labrador’ has been spotted in a field in Crundale.
The sighting was made on Saturday morning in a field adjoining Howard Crescent.
“We just want to make everyone aware that the huge black cat was seen in a field at the rear of our house in Howards Crescent,” commented concerned resident, Christine Hancock. ” And it was about the size of a labrador.”
Nearby residents have also reported that their dogs have been reacting to an unidentified presence whenever they are taken for walks in the same field.
This isn’t the first time that a ‘big cat’ has been seen in Crundale. A decade ago a black puma was seen on at least three separate occasions in fields near to the village.
There have been numerous big cats sightings in Pembrokeshire, including in 2012 when a former police officer reported a close encounter with a big cat in Treffgarne, near Haverfordwest. The officer described the animal as being about three feet tall with a large head, a muscular build and a smooth coat with brown spots. Pembrokeshire County Council described it as ‘the closest anyone has been to a big cat’.
Sarah Jane Absalom sarah.jane.absalom@herald.email
Two years later a Letterston smallholder was alerted to a large black cat escaping from his farmyard, carrying a 30lb goose in his mouth.
“He didn’t expect to see me, and I didn’t expect to see him,” said smallholder Martin Hughes. “I was shaking for about two hours after.”
Mr Hughes described the animal as being jet black, approximately three-and-ahalf feet long with a long black tail, a large head, large paws and big teeth.
Meanwhile the Beast of Boncath in north Pembrokeshire has made numerous appearances to motorists and local residents, while walkers in the area have reported seeing very large pad marks.
In 2021 a motorist reported seeing a light brown, muscular animal with a long tail near to Greenway Farm, Narberth. The motorist claimed the animal appeared to be chasing or pouncing on something. And in 2023 a big black cat was reported to have run across the path of a dash cam near Tavernspite.
Two days prior to last weekend’s Crundale sighting, kayakers David Davis and his wife Natalie spotted a big black cat, the size of an alsation dog, near to the Llangollen canal. After watching the cat
saunter across the fields, it disappeared into a nearby forest.
A male panther’s territory ranges between 150 and 275 square miles while the female’s territory is typically 70 to 80 square miles. Panthers mark their territory with scrapes which are piles of dirt and grass scratched up with their hind legs.
Earlier this year the British Big Cats
Society reported between 300 and 500 sightings of big cats in the UK per year, the vast majority being black panthers.
Big cats were once the height of fashion in the 1960s and ’70s, however this all changed with the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976. This resulted in people secretly releasing their pets into the wild to dodge the new ownership fees.
Saundersfoot 72-home development work set to begin
PLANS by one of the UK’s largest housebuilders to build 72 homes, 25 of them affordable, on the outskirts of a Pembrokeshire seaside village have been given the final sign-off, with works due to start in the spring.
Back in 2022, Persimmon Homes applied to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for the scheme on a 2.26 hectare area of land adjoining the northernmost houses of a long-established Sandyhill Park residential estate, Saundersfoot.
The application, including 47 open market dwellings, proposed a variety of detached, semi-detached, terraced and apartment properties to create an “attractive and integrated extension to Saundersfoot”.
The application was given delegated approval when it came before the national park’s July development management committee, with conditions including the completion of a Section 106 legal agreement relating to the affordable housing.
The affordable housing units will be split into four low-cost ownership units and 21 socially rented units, the report for national park planners said; the 35 per cent affordable percentage taking precedent over an affordable housing policy requirement of 50 per cent as it is designated as an allocated site.
As well as the affordable housing element and an open space provision, the scheme included a financial
Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter
contribution to cover the contribution towards Active Travel Routes within the local area (Saundersfoot Harbour to New Hedges).
After that approval, Persimmon Homes West Wales and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park have now signed the S106 agreement and Persimmon is planning to begin groundworks next Spring, with sales launching soon after ahead of the summer season.
Welcoming the agreement, Persimmon Homes West Wales’ Managing Director, Stuart Phillips, said:
“We’re pleased to have finalised the S106 agreement that will allow us to deliver 72 new, high-quality homes for local people in Saundersfoot.
“The development will provide a wide range of zero-carbon ready homes that will be of particular help to young families and first-time buyers, who otherwise might struggle to get onto the housing ladder in Pembrokeshire.
“Throughout the planning process, we have worked closely with officers and stakeholders to ensure that our homes are in keeping with – and enhance – the local area, and I’m thankful to officers and the project team for their collaborative efforts throughout.
“The scheme will deliver substantial
community benefits, including new facilities, enhanced green spaces, and significant investment in public infrastructure, as well as the transfer of 25 properties to a local housing association.
“Persimmon has a proud record of delivery in Pembrokeshire, and we are excited about this latest development
as we continue to build the best-value homes in sustainable and inclusive communities for local people.”
Local community council Saundersfoot had objected to the scheme on a number of grounds, also asking for a caveat that no property is bought for second-home holiday use.
Bruce
Man born in prison battles aggressive cancer
BETHAN CARTER-HEWINS has spoken to The Pembrokeshire Herald about the her husband’s Josh’s desperate fight to conquer a very rare and aggressive cancer.
She said: “Josh is my life. He’s my absolute everything and it’s awful to watch him suffer. He doesn’t deserve anything bad in this world as he has so much to live for.”
Josh and Bethan Carter-Hewins in hospital (Pic: Supplied)
Two weeks ago Josh, was told that the intense chemotherapy treatment he’d been receiving to treat his rare and aggressive Burkitt Lymphoma, had failed.
The 27-year-old, who was born in a prison in 1996 after his mother was wrongly convicted of arson, was told that his cancer had spread. As a result of its aggression, he was told that he isn’t eligible for further treatment.
“So essentially, Josh was sent home from hospital to die,” his wife, Beth, told The Pembrokeshire Herald.
“But Josh is the strongest person I know – his mind is so powerful and even when he’s physically down, he’s determined not to stop. Our fight is far from over.”
Josh has learnt to battle emotional hardship throughout his life after his mother, Annette Hewins, was jailed following her wrongful conviction for causing the death of a mother and two children in 1995. She was just three months pregnant with Joshua at the time of her arrest, and she gave birth to him while she was in custody.
Josh and his siblings were subsequently put into foster care and spent their childhood in the Crymych area and Carmarthenshire.
He moved to Pembroke after meeting Beth in secondary school, and in May, 2023, the couple were married in Pembroke Castle.
Happier times: Josh and Bethan Carter-Hewins on their wedding day (Pic: Supplied)
But Josh began feeling unwell two years earlier when he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, which is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. He later developed chronic liver disease and in 2023, he underwent a liver transplant.
“Everything seemed to be going well but when we were on holiday in Greece earlier this summer, he began feeling unwell again,” continues Beth.
“His symptoms were very similar to that of his ulcerative colitis with stomach pain, bloating and a general fatigue so initially, this is what we believed it was.”
But further analyses showed that Josh, who is employed as a CAD technician and account manager for the traffic light company, CORE highways, was suffering from the extremely rare post transplant lymphoma – Burkitt Lymphoma.
“Josh’s initial reaction was ‘Let’s
Sarah Jane Absalom sarah.jane.absalom@herald.email
get this done’, and he’s shown the most incredible strength right from the beginning.”
His intensive chemotherapy treatment began in June of this year.
“He was initially on EPOCH, which is a slow infusion that goes in over 24 hours five times a week, but quite early on it became apparent that it wasn’t working,” explains Beth. “So he had the choice of either sticking with it or moving onto another extremely intense chemo, called R-IVAC and R-CODOX-M.
“He chose the extreme chemo as he knew he’d be strong enough to
cope, and he was.”
Josh was treated at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.
Josh is raising funds for lifesaving treatment (Image: Supplied)
“It was a horrific chemo and very toxic on the gut and the liver, which are both very sensitive areas for Josh as a result of his liver transplant and the ulcerative colitis. But he coped incredibly well and his gut and liver functioned near perfectly all the way through.”
But two weeks ago Josh was given a scan that showed his intensive chemotherapy had failed and his cancer was showing up in more places than before.
He was also told that the only option
available to treat the cancer is CAR-T cell therapy.
“But unfortunately Josh isn’t eligible because his lymphoma is driven by being immunosuppressed,” said Beth. “He isn’t eligible for bone marrow transplants nor stem cell transplants because his disease isn’t under control and it’s too aggressive.
“But when we received this news, we knew that our fight was far from over.
“Josh wasn’t going to accept this, so he did his own extensive research and found a drug – Glofitamab – which has been used to treat a very small number of Burkitt’s lymphoma cases across Canada, Copenhagen, Sweden and the USA. And all those cases have gone into remission.”
Sold under the brand name Columvi, this bispecific monoclonal antibody is used for the treatment of large B-cell lymphoma.
“But it isn’t licensed for use on Burkitt’s lymphoma, which means that to treat Josh, it has to be given unlicensed. His consultant has reached out to the drug company to try and obtain physical data confirming its treatment of Burkitt’s and to try and build a case for the NHS to fund it. But the company didn’t have the data because all the cases had used the drug unlicensed, through private hospitals.
“We’re currently desperately trying to reach out to the NHS and the drug company, Roche, to ask them to grant the use of the drug on compassionate grounds. This has been done before, although it’s very rare.
“We’re also talking with private hospitals across the UK and abroad to try and get Josh the very best option. Obviously this isn’t cheap, but how can we put a price on Josh’s life?”
The treatment is expected to cost in excess of £50,000, with the result that Beth has set up a gofundme link- ‘Joshua’s fight for life; Burkitt’s Lymphoma.
“We’ve had some incredibly difficult conversations over the last few weeks – conversations that no young couple should have to have, but that just comes with those waves of emotion that we’re dealing with,” continued Beth.
“In all honesty, I don’t know how I’m feeling at the moment. One day I;m full of hope, and then the next day it’s complete and utter sadness and this feeling of =dread creeping up behind me, that I’m not ready to face.
“But we’re both so overwhelmed and touched by all the love and support we’re getting. And this is really helping us through.
“Despite what has happened, we’re both totally determined, and we’re not stopping until we’re heard.
“Josh is totally ready to face whatever is coming next.”
Ancient Welsh hymns brought into 21st century
SOME of Wales’ long-forgotten hymn tunes are being brought vividly back to life this month, thanks to award-winning singer, songwriter and composer Lleuwen Steffan and her unique collaboration with the National Eisteddfod of Wales.
Performing as ‘Tafod Arian’ (Silver Tongue), the collaboration pays homage to the lost voices of the past, and infuses these timeless melodies with some highly contemporary electronic arrangements.
The project originated in 2012 when Lleuwen was working on a music project at St Fagan’s National History Museum where she came across some long-forgotten recordings of hymns which had been left in the sound archives. None of these hymns could be found in the official hymn books nor the older hymnal editions, possibly as the result of their informal, conversational lyrics, or because they often delved into the world of addiction, mental illness and the darker side of the psyche.
But now these unpublished and unknown hymns will be heard for the first time in over a hundred years when Tabernacl Chapel, Maenclochog, will be one of 50 Welsh chapels to be visited by Tafod Arian.
Sarah Jane Absalom sarah.jane.absalom@herald.email
With translations and insights, the tour breathes new life into archive recordings, ensuring these cherished sacred songs rightfully claim their place in today’s spotlight. Lleuwen masterfully combines electronic and acoustic instrumentation, seamlessly blending the past with the present, and takes the stage alongside a dynamic quintet of international musicians including Sioned Webb and Gethin Elis from Wales, and Nolwenn Korbell and Brieg Guerveno from Brittany.
Despite the hymns’ long-distant past, the music is firmly in the present as Lleuwen uses various instruments to provide angular electronic accompaniment as well as her soulful vocals and guitar. She provides translations and explanations as she proudly puts the archive recordings of the lost |Welsh hymns on centre stage. As a result, these sacred songs are being passed on orally rather than via the hymn book which is precisely how Welsh folk music was conveyed.
The long-forgotten hymns will be heard once again in all their glory at Tabernacle Chapel, Maenclochog on Sunday, November 17 at 6.30pm.
The story behind Chris’ dingy ordeal
THE story of Chris Ellery’s unexpected journey across the Irish Sea has captivated many, especially after the photographer from Bristol was found safe in County Wicklow, Ireland, last Saturday. The 54-yearold set off from Pembrokeshire, Wales, with plans for a short solo trip but ended up sparking a large-scale search when he failed to return as expected. This is the background to Ellery’s unplanned voyage and the tense days that followed.
Chris Ellery, a seasoned boater and keen wildlife photographer, had arrived in Pembrokeshire to capture landscapes and wildlife. On Wednesday, October 30, he launched his small black inflatable boat from Goodwick’s Parrog at around 2:00pm. His family expected him back in Bristol by Thursday, but when he missed check-ins, they grew alarmed. After attempts to reach him went unanswered, the family alerted Dyfed-Powys Police, who quickly launched a search, knowing it was out of character for Ellery not to stay in touch.
The initial stages of the search focused on the Pembrokeshire coast, as local RNLI lifeboats from Fishguard, St Davids, Little Haven, Cardigan, and New Quay combed the waters. Police located Ellery’s vehicle at Goodwick, while Fishguard RNLI volunteers discovered a tent and other personal items near Carreg Gwastad point—a cove accessible only by boat. These findings, while raising hopes, also intensified concerns about his safety.
As the search expanded, air support joined the effort, with the HM Coastguard deploying rescue helicopters and a fixedwing aircraft from Humberside, scanning from Skomer Island to Mwnt. In total, over a hundred personnel across multiple agencies joined in the search, mobilising a vast range of resources to cover both land and sea.
While search teams scoured Pembrokeshire’s coastline, Mr. Ellery was adrift on the Irish Sea. He had experienced engine trouble shortly after setting off, and though he managed a temporary fix, his phone had lost power, leaving him unable to communicate or navigate back to safety. Over two days, strong currents and prevailing winds carried him westward across more than 100 km of open sea.
Finally, on Saturday, November 2, he arrived in County Wicklow, Ireland, where he walked into a Garda station to alert authorities. Tired but unharmed, his unexpected arrival in Ireland marked the end of a search that had spanned days and involved the efforts of numerous agencies.
Following his safe arrival, Ellery’s family expressed immense relief. His daughter, Kenzie, who had been actively sharing updates and appeals on social media, posted joyfully: “My dad is alive; he has been found in Ireland!” The outpouring of support from friends, family, and even strangers underscored
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the communal response that had grown around the search.
Ireland’s Taoiseach, Simon Harris, extended a warm welcome, calling the incident “a remarkable story of survival” and expressing relief for Ellery’s family and the Welsh emergency teams involved.
The RNLI used Ellery’s experience to highlight the importance of preparation
MIKE EDWARDS
Once upon a time, I was young and dull. Daft as a brush wasn’t the phrase for it. Like many of us, I thought I was - if not immortal - then certainly blessed with eternal youth. What bliss it was to be alive at that time! There was wine, women, and song. Well, two out of three ain’t bad, and one out of three was often enough to get by. When I realised it was time to knuckle down and stop being the wild colonial boy, I had what is sometimes called “an epiphany”. That’s a clever word that makes it sound both romantic and dramatic. Instead, I woke up in bed one morning with a three-alarm headache, pulled open the curtains, looked out at the frost, and realised that spring had passed and autumn was coming in fast.
There’s a bit in a film starring - of all people - Ronald Reagan. He wakes up in a hospital ward after a horrendous accident to discover various bits of him have been amputated. When he realises his plight, he asks: “Where’s the rest of me?”
While I watched the frost slowly evaporate in the weak morning sun on that morning many years ago, I had the same thought. It dawned on me that idle hours and lazy days had led to too many wasted years. I was no longer a teenager and was accelerating towards my fourth decade at a rate of knots.
In short, it was time to re-engineer my life.
I often think of what advice I’d give to my younger self, and I conclude that the best thing would be to tell him to save the life of an elderly stranger: me. I enjoyed my youth. Youth really is for the young; it’s the best time to waste your life. However, if you’re still partying as hard at thirty as you were at eighteen, life is in danger of sweeping past you. You will end up as the lonely man in a flat empty of memories and full of beer cans and microwave meal boxes. Worse, you could end up as the bloke in the pub who’s “a character”, your life littered with cheap laughs and too much on the tab.
No.
I decided that wasn’t what I wanted. I’d seen those phenomena too often, and, on an icy morning, I felt a rush of sudden perspective and spied a chilly glimpse of a future to avoid.
for solo trips at sea. The organisation recommended that all boaters keep family or friends informed of their travel plans and ensure they carry sufficient means of communication, such as a handheld VHF radio or additional power sources for phones.
Mr. Ellery’s unexpected journey serves as a reminder of the sea’s unpredictability and the crucial role that search and rescue teams play in ensuring the safety of those who find themselves in unexpected situations.
The reason I say this now is simple. As my wife and I approach retirement, I’ve got the hankering to do more of the things I missed out on when I was younger: enjoying living rather than bumbling through life. There are only so many beans that need counting, and it surely can’t be long before my beloved gives up her part-time job as a gun for hire with the WI. It’s time to see the world and hope it’s almost as nice as Pembrokeshire would be if Fishguard didn’t exist.
Tom
St Davids Choir performs at historic Hampton Court Chapel
ST DAVIDS Cathedral Choir has returned from an inspiring weekend of music-making at the iconic Chapel Royal in Hampton Court Palace. The group, comprising the Vicars Choral and Choral Scholars, was invited to perform at the historic venue and took part in a series of high-profile services attended by both music enthusiasts and chapel visitors.
The weekend began on Saturday with a unique bilingual Evensong, where the choir performed stirring pieces by renowned composers Thomas Tomkins and Thomas Tallis. The highlight of the visit came on Sunday, when St Davids Choir joined the esteemed Gentlemen of the Chapel Royal for a morning Eucharist and an evening Evensong. This collaboration featured sacred music by Palestrina, Tallis, John Shepherd, and William Byrd, creating an atmosphere that resonated through the halls of the 16thcentury chapel.
The weekend’s success was credited to the warm welcome extended by the Chapel Royal team, including notable figures such as James Elliot Harris, Sophie Baylis, Carl Jackson, and Simon BloxamRose. “Their hospitality was exceptional,” said a spokesperson for St Davids Choir. “They made us feel truly at home.”
Special thanks also went to Canon Leigh Richardson, Laurence John, Ben Richards, and Christa Richardson of St Davids, whose Welsh readings added a personal and cultural dimension to the service.
St Davids Cathedral Choir expressed their desire to continue this partnership, extending an invitation for the Chapel Royal team to visit St Davids Cathedral in the future. For many, the weekend was a moving testament to the power of music to connect communities and celebrate heritage across borders.
RCN members reject Welsh government’s inadequate NHS pay award
AN overwhelming 72% of Royal College of Nursing (RCN) members working in the NHS in Wales who took part in the consultation voted to reject the Welsh government’s proposed 5.5% pay increase for 2024/25.
The number of members that took part in the consultation reached the same levels as those seen in the successful 2022 industrial action ballot in Wales and the turnout in the recent consultation on the NHS pay award in England.
The First Minister announced this pay award in September, with the 5.5% increase expected to be paid in November salaries. However, this result demonstrates that RCN Wales members decisively believe this award does not recognise the value, expertise, and critical responsibility held by nursing staff in Wales.
Helen Whyley, RCN Wales Executive Director, said: “Our members have spoken loudly and clearly: nursing staff in Wales know their worth. After years of underpayment, this award fails to match the safety-critical nature of their work and the extensive skills they bring to the NHS.
“With the NHS in Wales in a fragile state, it is imperative that the Welsh government commits to valuing nursing staff to strengthen recruitment and retention, which will, in turn, improve patient care.”
“The RCN calls on the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care to engage in urgent talks toward pay restoration to address the historical underpayment faced by nurses in Wales. We urge the Welsh government to recognise that fair pay is essential to sustaining this essential workforce.”
Milford Haven School first to achieve gold in carer’s scheme
MILFORD HAVEN SCHOOL
have been recognised for their commitment to and support for young carers and is the first school to achieve the top level award.
The school have achieved the Investors in Carers Gold Level award for its work for learners and staff who are carers.
The scheme is delivered by Hywel Dda University Health Board and supported by local authority and third sector partners in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.
The Investors in Carers initiative was originally designed to help health facilities such as GP practices, areas within hospitals and other organisations focus on and improve their carer awareness.
This scheme has now extended to many other teams, services, and organisations. It is a scheme that provides a foundation for helping to identify and support unpaid carers of all ages.
Milford Haven School was assessed against the six themes within the scheme: Carer Lead, Staff training, Identification, Information
and Support for carers and Evaluation.
Janette Reynolds, Assistant Head Teacher said: “We are incredibly honoured to receive the Gold Investors in Carers Award, it is a testament to our commitment to supporting and recognizing the invaluable contributions of carers within our community. It was about developing a culture that respects, empowers, and advocates for the wellbeing of carers at Milford Haven School.
“We will continue to strive towards providing the best possible support, ensuring carers feel valued and equipped to balance their responsibilities.”
Pembrokeshire County Council Carers Champion, Councillor Mike James said: “This is absolutely fantastic news. Everyone at Milford Haven School should be extremely proud of their hard work and commitment that has led to them becoming the first school in Pembrokeshire to receive the Gold Investors in Carers award.
“The award recognises the awareness and support for carers provided by the school and this is to
be congratulated.”
A carer is someone, of any age, who provides unpaid support to family or friends who could not manage without this help. This could be caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems.
Anyone can become a carer; in most cases becoming a carer is not out of choice, it just happens.
For more information about the Investors in Carers scheme or for useful advice for carers, please visit: www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk/ carers
West Wales man raising funds for craft cider venture
A PENYBRYN resident is appealing for community support to launch a small-scale craft cider business in West Wales. Olly Craigan, the organiser of the GoFundMe campaign titled “Craigans Cider,” has already raised £545 towards his goal of £12,000. The funds will go towards purchasing essential equipment to establish a permanent apple press and cider workshop.
Since 2014, Craigan has honed his cider-making skills under the mentorship of experienced cider maker John Whitfield. Now living on a community
organic farm in Pembrokeshire, Craigan is seeking to create a dedicated space for producing his craft cider.
The funds raised will help purchase an apple press (£4,500), scratter apple mill (£1,500), filtration and pumping systems (£950), stainless steel tanks (£2,500), and bottling equipment (£1,000). Any donations beyond the target will support operational costs and community cider-making workshops.
Craigan plans to thank supporters by inviting them to a grafting day on the farm, where attendees can sample cider and take home an apple tree.
Rising trend of private healthcare use among friends and family in Wales
MORE than half of UK residents report having close family or friends who have used private healthcare services, according to the latest data from the Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN). In Wales, this figure is 58%, slightly above the UK-wide average of 55%. Meanwhile, 32% of Britons have used private healthcare themselves, with regions such as the East Midlands (64%) and Northern Ireland (59%) showing even higher familiarity with private healthcare options.
David Hare, Chief Executive of IHPN, said: “Private healthcare is becoming more mainstream, with people increasingly opting for private services to access healthcare more easily and quickly. Our findings highlight that most people in the UK know someone close who has used private healthcare, whether through insurance or self-pay. This demonstrates a shift toward private healthcare as a convenient and accessible option.”
The survey found that 45% of those choosing private healthcare did so because of long NHS waiting times, while
27% preferred the ease of booking private appointments. Around 20% receive private healthcare through work, and 17% believe private services offer higher-quality care. Accessibility is another key factor, with half of respondents agreeing that private healthcare is more accessible than NHS options.
Top Treatments Accessed Privately:
• Doctor consultation: 45%
• Diagnostic treatment (e.g., scans): 45%
• Other healthcare professional consultations: 35%
• GP appointments: 34%
• Minor operations (same-day discharge): 25%
• Major operations (overnight stay): 16%
• Ongoing serious condition treatment (e.g., cancer): 5%
IHPN’s Five Steps to Choosing Private Healthcare If you’re considering private healthcare, IHPN suggests these key steps:
Do Your Research: Consult inspection reports from national care regulators like the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England and the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN).
Scotland and Wales have independent inspectorates, available at hiw.org.uk and healthcareimprovementscotland.scot.
Explore Payment Plans: Many providers offer flexible payment options, making private care more affordable.
Find Local Options: Use resources such as ihpn.org.uk or phin.org.uk to locate private providers nearby.
Take Control: It’s your choice; seek recommendations from friends and family or consult online ratings to find the right
clinician or clinic. Your GP can also offer support.
Book a Consultation: Before committing, schedule a consultation with a private provider to discuss treatment options and ask questions. Bring someone you trust if you wish, and take notes. For more information on private healthcare options in the UK, visit ihpn.org. uk. For additional information, interviews, or case studies, contact Helen Trevorrow at 0794 000 9138 or helen@greenrow. co.uk.
Source: Statistics are from the “Going Private 2024” report by IHPN and Public First, based on a survey of 2,004 respondents across the UK.
Multi-million pound grant funding for transport projects sought
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY
COUNCIL is seeking £10.3 million grant funding from Welsh Government for a range of important transport improvement and active travel projects.
The projects will benefit local communities all over the county, said Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader.
Cllr Miller added: “By approving the need for these bids to be submitted we are demonstrating our commitment to improving communities for all residents, across Pembrokeshire.”
Among the Local Transport Fund grants bids being made are Public Transport Interchange Improvements at Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock.
A detailed scheme update on the Milford haven scheme was provided to the Cabinet last month. Subject to confirmation of further funding contributions from Welsh Government, work could start to begin on site next
year and be completed in 2026.
This project is a key enabler for improving rail connectivity for Milford Haven and Pembrokeshire as a whole. It also supports the work being done with Welsh and UK Governments as well as Great Western Railways to secure the return of direct, high speed, intercity services to the town. 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 Pembroke Dock Interchange scheme is for a new public transport and active link from Pembroke Dock Retail Park, and subject to grant award, work would concentrate
on design of connectivity into the interchange from London Road, and the installation of Traffic Signals.
The Active Travel Fund is an opportunity to seek funding for the completion of schemes in Saundersfoot, at Stammers Road and Francis Road.
The Resilient Roads Fund bid will cover a bid for the Newgale Coastal Adaptation and A487 Diversion. An update was provided to Cabinet meeting on 9th September.
There has been extensive engagement and consultation on this scheme, and the solution recommended is based on significant data and evidence which is contained in the project website library. There remains some discussion over the scheme proposal from some members of the community, and the Council is committed to listing to all views, and explaining its stance on adaptation to
the challenges presented by climate change at this location.
Preparation of a Planning Application, including the statutory Pre-Application Consultation, is due later this financial year, which will again allow open and transparent scrutiny of proposals.
The Council’s proposals are about adaptation to tackle the scale of the problem of climate change.
Meanwhile, the county’s provision of electric charging points is seeking a boost with an application for grant to further expand the network and related infrastructure.
Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services added: “These bids, if approved, will bring to improvements to travel for all aspects of transportation in Pembrokeshire. Drivers, commuters, cyclists, pedestrians and others will all benefit.”
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
The Day of the Jackal
The much-anticipated reboot of The Day of the Jackal has landed on Sky Atlantic, bringing Frederick Forsyth’s infamous assassin to the screen once again. This time, Eddie Redmayne takes on the titular role, portraying a chillingly enigmatic hitman in Ronan Bennett’s ambitious, 21st-century adaptation. Although Edward Fox left an indelible mark in the 1973 film, Redmayne’s rendition offers a fresh, compelling take on the ruthless character, whose mission now involves a fictional target in a high-stakes tech world.
From the very start, viewers are plunged into action as Redmayne’s Jackal showcases his deadly skill, assembling a sniper rifle from the innocuous pieces of a briefcase. In an impressive feat, he calibrates his aim to hit a far-right German politician from two miles away, the bullet suspended in air for six tense seconds before striking. This intense opening sequence feels like a treat for fans of precision shooting, and it sets the tone for a show that revels in showcasing the Jackal’s meticulous talent.
In Forsyth’s original narrative, the assassin was hired to kill Charles de Gaulle, an impossible task considering the welldocumented history of De Gaulle’s survival. Here, however, Bennett introduces new layers of suspense with a fictional target: a tech mogul, played by Khalid Abdalla, who is preparing to launch software capable of revealing the hidden agendas of the ultra-wealthy. The
mission is assigned by Charles Dance’s character, whose sinister gravitas makes him the perfect fit to mastermind the hit. Without historical constraints, the story keeps viewers guessing – both the Jackal’s fate and his target’s are up in the air, leaving room for potential sequels.
With a sweeping narrative spanning ten episodes, this reboot dives deeper into the assassin’s personal life, a realm unexplored in previous adaptations. Bennett gives Redmayne’s Jackal a backstory that includes a Spanish wife (played by Úrsula Corberó) and an extravagant, secluded home on the Mediterranean coast, adding new dimensions to his character. This portrayal of the Jackal as a man who juggles cold-blooded professionalism with complex domestic ties lends an unusual humanity to the hitman, though eliciting sympathy for such a chilling figure is no small feat. In a nod to Bennett’s work on Top Boy, this Jackal’s character is dissected with an unflinching look at the psychology behind violence, albeit a more abstract one.
The supporting cast adds further depth to the storyline. Lashana Lynch stars as Bianca Pullman, the MI6 agent on the Jackal’s trail. As a sharp-shooting mother grappling with her own family life, her character creates an intriguing parallel to the Jackal’s hidden domestic challenges. Like him, she is also forced to keep her professional dangers from her loved
ones, creating a mirroring effect that underscores the sacrifices required by their respective callings. Meanwhile, Lia Williams heads MI6 with an efficiency and warmth reminiscent of her role in The Post Office, further enriching the narrative with her authoritative yet approachable demeanour. While Bennett’s deep-dive into his characters’ lives adds a unique layer to the classic thriller, the plot occasionally dips in momentum. The blend of Redmayne’s portrayal as a man concealed behind ice-blue eyes, deadpan expressions, and a barely concealed overbite keeps the viewer invested, even as the story’s pace falters. Redmayne’s own knack for transformation, honed through roles as Stephen Hawking and Lili Elbe, serves him well here, creating a distinctly eerie, almost otherworldly Jackal. His performance hints that he might be auditioning for another iconic British role, with some even speculating that Redmayne could soon step into the shoes of a Bondlike figure: perhaps the next Rory Stewart.
Despite some mid-story lag, The Day of the Jackal remains a thrilling experience, especially with Redmayne’s mesmerising lead. Fans of the original will find plenty to compare, while newcomers can relish the sleek modern twist on Forsyth’s classic tale. Whether or not the Jackal succeeds, this series makes a strong case for a new British anti-hero in the pantheon of unforgettable screen assassins.
The Roman Empire is in a state of crisis since Maximus Decimus Meridius’ heroic sacrifice, and while his victory over the corrupt Emperor Commodus briefly brought hope, the empire remains fractured. The Senate is in disarray, the military divided, and the common people are disillusioned. The weight of Rome’s destiny rests with Lucius, the son of Maximus’s dear friend, Lucilla.
Now a young man (played by Paul Mescal), Lucius was a child when Maximus saved Rome, and he has grown up surrounded by the stories of that legendary figure. But his upbringing in the palace hasn’t shielded him from the political corruption that threatens the empire. As powerhungry senators and generals plot to seize control, Lucius finds himself reluctantly drawn into the world his father tried to leave behind. With the empire on the
brink of collapse, Lucius must make an impossible choice: follow in Maximus’s footsteps and fight for Rome, or become yet another pawn in a game of brutal power. Lucius’s journey takes him back to the heart of the empire, where he is forced into the gladiatorial arena—once a place of glory for his father and a symbol of Rome’s brutal grandeur. In the sand, he faces Tiberius (yetto-be-cast), a fearsome former slave turned gladiator with a deep personal vendetta. Tiberius has risen through the ranks, and his ambition, fueled by revenge, makes him a deadly opponent. Their fates are intertwined in a battle not just for survival, but for the soul of the empire itself.
As the fight for power intensifies both in the senate and in the arena, Lucius must confront his family’s legacy and the ghosts of those who came before him. Can he
rise to become the leader Rome needs, or will he be consumed by the same thirst for vengeance and power that destroyed his ancestors?
With Ridley Scott returning to direct, Gladiator 2 promises to bring the same sweeping scale, intense action, and emotional depth that made the original a cinematic classic. Expect brutal gladiatorial combat, political intrigue, and the timeless struggle between honor and betrayal. The music of Hans Zimmer will echo through the action, enhancing the film’s high-stakes drama.
This sequel will continue the story of a fading empire, exploring themes of power, legacy, and redemption, as Lucius must decide what kind of man he wants to be— and whether he can save Rome from itself. The arena may call, but will he answer, or will Rome’s glory slip into history?
Antony Cotton to host Christmas Flamingo Bingo in Milford Haven!
Flamingo Bingo Christmas Tour
2024 Brings Festive Fun to Milford Haven! Hosted by Coronation Street Star Antony Cotton
Get ready to jingle all the way as the Flamingo Bingo Christmas Tour returns to Pembrokeshire! On Saturday, 7th December, the Hangar will host the ultimate Christmas party, led by none other than Coronation Street’s Antony Cotton.
This isn’t just bingo – it’s a fullblown festive bash, and Cotton, known for his role as Sean Tully on Corrie, will be at the helm, bringing his signature charm and humour to the night’s festivities. From 6:00 pm to midnight, attendees can expect an evening packed with outrageous games, live music, and plenty of holiday spirit.
Dress to Impress for a £50 Prize
Partygoers are encouraged to don their most festive attire, with a £50 prize up for grabs for the best dressed. Think Santa suits, sparkling Christmas jumpers, or even a few reindeer antlers – the more creative, the better!
What’s on the Naughty and Nice List?
For those new to Flamingo Bingo,
this isn’t your average bingo night. Here’s a taste of what to expect:
Insane Prizes: Win big with festive prizes that will keep you grinning all the way through December.
Live Music: Dance and sing along to your favourite holiday hits and classic party anthems.
False Call Forfeits: Make a false bingo call? Prepare for a festive forfeit!
Ridiculous Dance-Offs: Get ready to show off your best moves in some hilariously competitive dance-offs.
Confetti Galore: What’s a Christmas party without a shower of confetti to add a magical sparkle?
Tickets Selling Fast!
Single tickets and tables go on sale Sunday at 7 pm, and these events are known to sell out quickly. Flamingo Bingo is a crowd favourite
in West Wales, so be sure to snag your spot early!
If you’re looking to start the Christmas season with a bang, there’s no better place to be. Grab your mates, get your festive gear ready, and prepare for a night of laughter, games, and pure holiday joy. It’s going to be the wildest night in West Wales, and you won’t want to miss a second!
ALRIGHT, so imagine this: Metal Slug, that iconic arcade blast from the past, has been whisked into a brand-new dimension—one of grids, strategy, and beautifully chaotic turn-based mayhem.
This isn’t just some buttonmashing, quarter-gobbling thrill ride anymore; it’s all about careful planning, tactical prowess, and some positively delectable chaos. They’ve taken the old-school frenetic energy of Metal Slug—*you know, that absurdity with massive bosses, explosive barrels, and quips as sharp as the bullets— and turned it into a grid-based tactical RPG. You’re no longer just blasting mindlessly; no, no, you’re leading a squad, a team of unique soldiers with their own mad little quirks and abilities.
It’s cover-based combat, it’s meticulous positioning, it’s using the terrain—and suddenly, you’re a proper military genius!
The visuals? Oh, they’ve kept that lush, 2D pixel charm, don’t you worry. But they’ve thrown it into an isometric perspective, giving you a fresh angle on all the carnage. It’s like seeing a classic painting from a new angle, but with explosions and ridiculous oversized weaponry. Each encounter, though slower, is just dripping with that overthe-top animation and absolute absurdity that made Metal Slug legendary. You’ll still laugh, you’ll still gasp, and you’ll absolutely get ambushed by some delightful pixelated monstrosities.
Now, progression. You’ve got your little band of heroes, and
yes, you can upgrade, tweak, and fine-tune them into a ragtag team of tactical wizards, each decision tweaking their loadout and opening up fresh combos. It’s accessible, sure, but don’t be fooled—this is a game with depth. Veteran players will revel in the challenge as it cranks up, demanding thoughtful turns, smart use of resources, and managing the occasional leftfield surprise like destructible terrain or hulking, unexpected boss encounters.
In the end, Metal Slug Tactics is this glorious concoction of strategy and bombast. It’s fresh but familiar, refined but a bit wild, making it perfect for the tactical newcomers and an utter joy for long-time fans of the series.
HOROSCOPES
When you see something you want, walk away and come back to it later. Chances are the novelty and thrill will have passed. LIBRA
A ton of romantic energy is flying around today, but will you really have enough time to take advantage of all of it? As much as you’d like to, you can’t spend all day flirting with people. You have to focus on work now. The fun comes later. Trying to force the two together is only going to make you fail at both, so prioritize things appropriately. Get the boring stuff out of the way early and then devote the rest of your day to pleasurable pursuits.
SCORPIO
You just learned some critical information. You are standing on a firm foundation of accurate awareness. You know the real deal and nothing will change your mind. This level of conviction will help you persevere through long, boring meetings and handle people who think they know it all. Lots of fast talk has been going on, but not a lot of progress has been made. You’ll suddenly see certain people in a much clearer light.
SAGITTARIUS
Your peeps are on the same wavelength as you, and that wave involves a big surge of fun, fun, fun! This is a wonderful time in your life for group projects, group travel, and group socializing. Collaboration will be easy, and everyone’s flexibility is at an all-time high. The energy created when your posse gets together is positive and supportive. Cook something up! Toss out some ideas about where to go and what to do together.
CAPRICORN
Review one of your closest relationships today. It’s natural for people to drift apart, but you may not realize how quickly this friendship is fading. A recent social outing didn’t turn out to be as much fun as you’d hoped. Was it just a case of unrealistic expectations, or are you guys going separate ways? Readjust your expectations and realize that you can work through this change if you both want to. It might be time to have an honest heart-to-heart talk.
AQUARIUS
Your eye for detail will help you notice things no one else pays attention to today. Hold on to these little revelations until a time when they will be more useful to you. Your mouth, however, is another story. Don’t be surprised if you accidentally divulge classified info today.
wITH eDDIe THe gAme gURU
Badger and the World of Unreality
OBLONG.
It’s all gone oblong - you know, “oblong.” Like, “it’s all gone a bit Pete Tong,” but sort of squared and squished.
Let’s start at the beginning.
From the end of a small telescope positioned atop the House of Commons, a generous and goodnatured liar might conclude the Welsh Government is doing a half-decent job. Through careful use of an ear trumpet, our individual on top of the Palace of Westminster could even be persuaded that not only do Welsh ministers know what they’re doing and what they’re talking about but are doing whatever it is that they are doing so well that the Welsh public gives daily thanks to the Almighty for ministers’ continued existence.
All politicians delude themselves to a greater or lesser degree. It’s par for the course, if not a significant part of the job description. Badger hopes, however, that it beggars belief that anyone in the Welsh Parliament could imagine in a month of blue moons on Sundays that the Welsh Government is doing a decent job of much at all.
Let’s do a quick walk through three devolved responsibilities:
(1) Education: Wales is the worstperforming of the home nations in the PISA tests that assess numeracy and literacy. It has been bumping around the bottom since Wales first participated in the PISA tests over seventeen years ago. Moreover, PISA reading scores amongst those taking the Welsh version of the PISA reading test are inexplicably low. It was around 60 points lower than their peers who did the test in English – the equivalent of two years of schooling, despite the fact that proportionately more students in Welsh-medium education come from a background in which both parents went to higher education.
From 2000 to 2007, the Welsh Government had a vision: Wales was “The Learning Country.” Labour in Wales referred to the National Assembly’s formation as a” turning point” for education and lifelong learning in Wales. It was, but not in the way Labour thought then andmind-bogglingly -Labour ministers still believe today.
(2) Health: It always reminds
Badger of an old saying: “Don’t piss on my shoes and tell me that it’s raining”. A senior councillor on Pembrokeshire County Council of Badger’s acquaintance once told him in awed and aghast tones that the Welsh Government sincerely believes that its handling of the Welsh NHS is not only going well but is a model the rest of the UK should embrace. If that is the case, and the evidence suggests it is, successive Welsh cabinet ministers have long gone past consuming magic mushrooms and are deep into the Guatemalan insanity peppers.
The Welsh NHS is chronically understaffed. Recruitment is all but impossible outside Cardiff. The Welsh NHS estate is crumbling to bits and is held together by spending scarce resources on knackered buildings. The number of GP practices in Wales has plummeted. Waiting lists were bad enough before Covid - the worst in the UK - and have lengthened to a size that challenges patient safety. The Ambulance Service is overstretched and has never hit its performance target for emergency calls. NHS dentistry is in freefall, with practices handing back NHS contracts across rural Wales. Rural Wales has a third-class version of a second-rate health system based on the idiot proposition that one size really does fit all. And yet successive health ministers live in a parallel universe in which everything is going aces.
(3) Housing: In 2021, Labour promised it would build 20,000 new, low-carbon social homes for rent. That is 20,000 new low-carbon social homes for rent by 2026. Ahem. Horseshit. Horseshit with knobs on.
As ever, Badger knows where the bodies are buried. He inhumed enough of them. Audit Wales is Wales’s independent public spending watchdog. It says: “Regardless of funding, there are not quite enough pipeline schemes to meet the March 2026 target and some of these are cosidered risky.
“In practice, the Welsh Government has clarified that it counts some homes that are not new builds and that are not low-carbon.”
Those new homes promised in 2021 are not new, not low-carbon, and unlikely to be built. Manifestos, eh, readers? These days, they’re not worth the paper they’re not printed on.
In addition, the Welsh Government has the lunatic idea that simply wishing for something will deliver it. Heat pumps are the answer to greening Wales’s homes; at least, the Welsh Government says so. Except that Wales’s housing stock is so old, so decrepit, and so scattered outside the large towns and cities, heat pumps are not only unaffordable and undeliverable, they’re impossible to install.
Delusional, infantile student politics posing as “the Welsh Way” has done so much damage to Wales over the last 25 years; Badger has to stop there. Otherwise, he’ll go on for another zillion-teen thousand words.
And here’s the rub: the Welsh Government has blamed the Conservatives for the last fourteen years. But why didn’t it fix the roof during devolution’s sunny first decade? Having had the chance to set its priorities and make its own choices, why have the ones Labour in Wales has made been so disastrous in key policy areas? The failure of delivery, the Welsh Government’s delusional belief
in its infallibility, and the arrogance that comes with being too long in power mean things must change.
Wales’s devolved government has no say on foreign policy, defence, criminal justice, policing, welfare benefits, or immigration. The Labour Government in Wales’s function is to deliver optimal services within a spending settlement and status quo that it has chosen not to challenge now their comrades are back in Westminster.
Bread and butter: health, education, housing. The Welsh Government must deliver more on those in fewer than two years than it has in the previous quarter of a century.
Regardless of your political persuasion, you have to hope they succeed. The alternative is more of the same failure of political courage and imagination that has dogged Wales since the First Assembly met in 1999. And Wales, not even those bits of it that return donkeys in red rosettes to nod through any old tosh, does not deserve that.
Trouble for Europe as Trump triumphs
ACHAFI, lads and lasses! Just when ye thought the world was a quiet nest, that old bird, Trump, has taken flight back into the White House – and it’s sure to stir up a right squawk across the pond. Word is, Europe’s about to get walloped by more than a few stray feathers.
See, Trump’s big “America First” screech means he’s looking out for his nest and no one else’s. So what does that mean for Europe? Only that they could be in for a trade war, strained alliances, and a newly emboldened Putin – strutting around, looking like the cock o’ the walk. Europe, poor thing, is facing a choice between trying to toughen up or hoping for a
bit of mercy. Their best shot? Joining wings with the UK, though getting Europe and the Brits to work together smoothly is about as likely as seagulls and pigeons agreeing on whose chip it is.
Now, Trump’s known for getting his feathers ruffled over trade imbalances, and he’s squawking loud about those German cars and European goods. Word is, we might see tariffs slapped on everything from BMWs to brie. Germany and France are already gasping for air with their own nest troubles, and now they’re bracing for a transatlantic storm – and a trade tussle with Trump could leave Europe’s economy with wings clipped.
But it’s not just trade Trump’s
eyeing; there’s talk he’ll shake up NATO again, too. Last time he was in office, he was nearly ready to pack up his nest and leave NATO in the dust, squawking at Europe to spend more on defence. This time around, he could do worse – making it clear that if Europe wants to avoid Putin’s beak, they’d better start flapping for themselves. With Russia poking around at Ukraine’s borders and eyeing up Europe like a hawk on the hunt, losing US support in NATO would leave Europe as vulnerable as an unguarded fish supper on a summer’s day.
Some reckon Trump’s last squawk about NATO at least made Europe cough up more feathers for their own
defence. But relying on America to come to the rescue might be about as safe as leaving your chips by the water’s edge. As Fiona Hill, Trump’s former adviser, said, he doesn’t see allies as mates – they’re just bargaining chips, ready to be traded off in a heartbeat.
Now, if ye thought the troubles stopped there, think again. Trump’s got himself a flock of tech giants, like Elon Musk and Peter Thiel, who’d love nothing more than a social media free-for-all, with Europe stepping off from all their pesky regulations. The EU’s been trying to keep a leash on things like AI and crypto, but Musk, running X (formerly Twitter), and his buddies are hoping Trump’s second term will let them peck about freely without rules cramping their style. Europeans, meanwhile, are worried this could unleash a mess of fake news and online nasties that’ll leave everyone chasing shadows. It’s looking like a transatlantic showdown could be brewing over tech policies as well – and Trump’s not the type to back down.
With all these squabbles looming, it’s not looking like Europe has much time for dawdling. They’ll need to unite if they hope to face down Trump’s “America First” caws. Some leaders, like Poland’s Donald Tusk, have been squawking about Europe needing to grow its own strength. He’s right – they can’t keep waiting for a helping wing from the US; it’s time to fluff up their own feathers and maybe find a way to work together with the UK again.
But will they pull it off? Or will this be another case of every bird for itself? Only time will tell, and until then, ye can bet on one thing –Trump’s second flight is bound to ruffle feathers across Europe and beyond. So keep an eye on the skies, lads and lasses – and don’t say I didn’t warn ye! The big bird from across the pond is back, and he’s sure to leave a bit of mess in his wake.
‘Progress’ on responsible dog breeding and ownership in Wales
THE Welsh Government has announced notable advancements in promoting responsible dog breeding and ownership throughout Wales, with the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, emphasizing a successful year for the initiative.
Following the success of the inaugural summit in 2023, a second annual summit was held on October 24, serving as a platform to showcase achievements, foster knowledge sharing, and underline the value of a collaborative approach. This year’s summit highlighted key achievements and gathered
insights from stakeholders who have been instrumental in advancing responsible dog ownership in Wales. The initiative has brought together local government, police, public health authorities, third sector organisations, and dog welfare campaigners to ensure a cohesive approach. Key achievements celebrated at the summit include:
• Expansion of LEAD Initiative: Originally implemented by Gwent Police, this initiative is now being adopted across other police forces in Wales.
• Responsible Dog Ownership Courses: The Blue Cross has provided
courses that are now widely available across all four Welsh police force areas, promoting education on responsible ownership.
• Community Support by Hope Rescue: Working within the community, Hope Rescue has provided essential support to dog owners, including those assisted by mental health charities.
• Research and Licensing Models: Ongoing research aims to examine successful dog breeding practices from other countries to enhance health and welfare standards in Wales.
• Animal Licensing Wales Project: A new website and portal for breeders, local authorities, and the public aim to combat illegal breeding and elevate welfare standards.
• Wales Dog Safety Partnership: This new initiative is expected to play a critical role in community safety and welfare.
The Welsh Government expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the initiative, noting the progress made toward responsible dog breeding and ownership across Wales.
Leading insurance broker appoint first female director
FUW Insurance Services
Ltd, Wales’ largest agricultural insurance broker, has announced the appointment of Karen Royles as its first female Executive Director following approval by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Karen, who lives in the Wrexham area, joins the Board as Operations and Sales Support Director, bringing a wealth of experience to the role, having previously held various positions within the organisation.
With a background in the hospitality sector, Karen joined FUW Insurance Services Ltd as an insurance account handler at the Ruthin office on a 6-month maternity cover contract in November 2015. Over the past 9 years, she has gone on to be promoted to several roles within FUW Insurance Services Ltd and FUW Ltd, including Administration Manager, and currently serves as Group Operations Manager - a position she has held since March 2022.
Karen’s appointment to the FUW Insurance Services Ltd Board of Directors sees her become the first female to be appointed executive director to the Board, and follows the appointment of prominent
businesswoman, Ann Beynon OBE as FUW Insurance Services Ltd Chair in 2023becoming the first female to hold the position.
Responding to her appointment, Karen Royles said:
“I am honoured to be appointed to the FUW Insurance Services Ltd board of directors, and look forward to continuing to use my knowledge and experience to help provide key insurance services for communities and businesses across Wales.
In particular, I’d like to recognise and thank the incredible support I’ve received from all in the FUW Insurance Services Ltd and FUW Ltd teams over the past 9 years. I started at an entry level position in the company and am grateful that a business which prides itself on building a structure for staff development at all levels can prove that commitment through their support for my career path over the past nine years.
I look forward to the new challenge, and will strive to build on FUW Insurance Services Ltd’s position in the agricultural and commercial market.”
Ann Beynon OBE, Chair of FUW Insurance Services
Ltd Board, welcomed Karen’s appointment, saying:
“I am delighted to welcome Karen to the FUW Insurance Services Ltd Board of Directors.
In an industry where women remain underrepresented, her appointment to such a senior role is to be welcomed.”
Having worked closely with Karen over recent years, I have
no doubt her vast expertise and experience - from account handler to head office - will strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional services and support for members, and continue to ensure the longterm success of FUW Insurance Services Ltd as one of Wales’ leading insurance brokers.”
Farmers Guardian launches ‘Save Britain’s Family Farms’ campaign
In response to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Budget which has left many small family farms feeling uncertain about their future, national agricultural publication Farmers Guardian has launched a new campaign to back Britain’s family farms.
Farmers Guardian, which is marking its 180th anniversary this year, has launched the campaign, ‘Save Britain’s Family Farms’ to showcase what family farms deliver for the nation. It hopes to start a national conversation about the wider benefits farming brings to society, from producing healthy, nutrient dense food to being custodians of the countryside, protecting our much-loved and used landscapes, caring for the environment and wildlife, creating jobs and sustaining rural communities which form the rich tapestry of our beloved countryside.
Save Britain’s Family Farms gives a voice to the families at the heart of homegrown food production, concerned about what the future holds for them and the next generation. Farmers Guardian editor Olivia Midgley said:
“Family farms are the beating heart of our countryside and what they provide goes so much further than the food we eat. Our campaign aims to move the conversation on from Inheritance Tax to a broader debate about how we value our food systems. Small family farms are responsible for producing much of the food we eat, but the inequity in supply chains means they shoulder most of the risk for little reward, meaning most
businesses are not profitable without support. What the debate around the Budget has highlighted is that there is still a huge disconnect between farming and the public and that the common misconception that assets equal wealth needs to be addressed.”
Save Britain’s Family Farms aims to:
Save our family farms
Showcase family farms’ contribution
to society
Amend Inheritance Tax threshold to protect small family farms
Viable food producing industry will ensure a future for next generation Encourage the public to buy British and support homegrown food production
The campaign supports the NFU’s call on the Government to raise the threshold on the value of assets
in which inheritance tax applies and Farmers Guardian will stand alongside the community in the NFU’s demonstration to be held in central London on November 19.
Farmers Guardian has been at the heart of rural communities since 1844 and is built on a rich campaigning heritage, always championing the industry and fighting to ensure farmers’ voice are heard.
PGI Welsh Lamb makes return to UAE and gets foothold in Saudi Arabia
PGI Welsh Lamb has made a return to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and secured a foothold in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabi (KSA) – Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat promotion Wales (HCC) is delighted to announce.
Following extensive negotiations, and engagement work in those new and developing markets, Welsh Lamb will now be available in prominent retailers in Dubai and Riyadh.
The GCC market is currently worth in excess of £3.5 million to Welsh Lamb industry and consumers in both markets will be able to purchase the premium product when it’s in season (October to January).
Speaking after the product was launched in Riyadh, HCC’s Market Development Lead Jason Craig said:
“I’m delighted that after extensive negotiations and market development work, we are now seeing PGI Welsh Lamb return to the UAE and also making an entrance to Saudi Arabia.
“Welsh Lamb is in high demand and is now exported to over 20 countries worldwide.
The PGI mark of traceability has been a cornerstone of this trade, at home and abroad, since the designation was awarded in 2003.
“Our farmers and traditional methods have for many years
been recognised for their production of superb quality lamb, and our exporters are renowned for their ability to harness and develop relationships at every level of business.”
From Royals and world leaders to popstars and movie stars the qualities of Welsh Lamb have been recognised around the world by all.
“The non-intensive environment in which livestock are reared develops succulent, sweet and tender meat. Lush green pastures of the hills and valleys, a temperate climate, mineral rich soils and unspoilt environment come together to produce lamb of the highest quality and we are delighted that consumers in the UAE and KSA can also enjoy this
premium product,” added Jason Craig.
Marcus O’Sullivan, Commercial Director, Pilgrim’s Europe added:
“Pilgrim’s Europe have a long association with the GCC region and are delighted to launch Welsh Lamb in KSA. After investing heavily at our site in Llanidloes, we continue to grow our business internationally with the great support of our solid farmer base and that of Jason Craig and his team at HCC.
“The support of our farming base is integral in being able to supply the best lamb this country can offer to some of the most respected high-end retailers in the UK, Europe and around the world.”
“P ROTECTING
working people” - a line heralded time after time in the run-up to, and during last week’s long-awaited Budget statement. However, as the dust settles following Rachel Reeves’ announcement on Halloween-eve, for many hardworking Welsh farmers the consequences of the Budget are likely to unravel as more of a trick than a treat.
At the heart of such anxieties lies the significant reform of inheritance tax relief. “Ensuring that we continue to protect small family farms” was the Chancellor’s promise from the dispatch box - but in practice, such changes have sent shockwaves through our farming families.
Inheritance tax relief through the Agricultural Property Relief (APR) has long supported the very fabric of our rural communities - aiding and incentivising Welsh family farms to pass from generation to generation. This has ensured those who inherit agricultural holdings are not crippled by taxes - thus avoiding adverse effects on rural businesses and employment, and crucially, safeguarding our wider Welsh food production and food security.
Due to the key importance of APR, the FUW has long opposed reforms to its structure - a position that was also previously voiced in November 2023 by Labour’s Steve Reed, now Secretary of State at DEFRA, who less than a year ago ruled out scrapping inheritance tax relief for farmland.
However, despite these previous assurances, the Budget revealed that from April 2026 the 100% rate tax relief will cease for businesses and land worth over £1 millionwith an inheritance tax introduced thereafter at
an effective rate of 20%.
The Chancellor assured us that three quarters of farms would remain unaffected by the change, but the FUW shares the industry’s wider concerns that these reforms could very well undermine the viability of our family farms, rural communities and the wider need for food security.
Whilst a million pounds may appear to be a huge sum for those outside the industry, for many Welsh farmsteads, even a conservative estimate of the value of accumulated land and infrastructure could see the £1m threshold easily breached. Subsequently, for many farming families, asset rich but operating on slim financial margins, there may well be little choice but to break-up the family farm to meet such death duties.
The emotional, economic and societal consequences of this potential dissolution of Welsh family farms could be significant and will have a real consequence for our food production - impacting the price of food. To this end the FUW will continue to challenge this tax reform and lobby the UK Government for a degree of clarity on changes which appear confused and ill-thought through.
As last week’s announcement inevitably draws farmers’ thoughts and focus towards succession planning and future-proofing, it is worth emphasising alternative avenues of estate planning are available - with guidance and support for farmers readily available from partners of the FUW.
However, in a year that has already seen mass unrest, uncertainty and declining morale within the farming sector, this latest intervention from Government is a further straw on the strained back of an industry already in turmoil.
Hyundai Motor UK continues to challenge brand perceptions
Hyundai Motor UK launches a new advertising campaign that follows on from its successful ‘Dawn of a New Hyundai’, challenging perceptions of the brand. The brand’s transformation from value focused to premium volume contender – and pioneer in innovation, design and performance – is conveyed with the reinforcement of introduction the global pronunciation of ‘Hyun-day’ to replace the anglicised ‘Hi-yundie’.
The new film imagines a world where the only people still saying Hyundai incorrectly have been out of circulation for 30
years. It features a middle-aged man, dressed as a ‘90s teenager, who has just been beamed back to earth from an alien spaceship having left the planet 30 years before. He is astonished by the spectacular evolution of Hyundai’s models, especially the IONIQ 5 N.
The advert ends on the words: “If you think you know our cars and how to say our name, where have you been?” reaffirming that preconceptions of the brand based on vehicles from decades ago should be set aside in line with the present-day reality of Hyundai’s multi-awardwinning product line-up and customer service. The film will
appear on Sky, ITV and Channel 4, plus cinemas nationwide, from 4 November until 5 January.
Ashley Andrew, Hyundai Motor UK MD, said: “Since the ‘Dawn of a New Hyundai’ campaign, our visibility has grown and continues to do so with each new product and the high-profile accolades they attract. That is important, because our research shows that once people put Hyundai on their consideration list, there is a strong chance they will buy our cars. But there is still more that we can do to alert those who are still not aware of what Hyundai has to offer. That’s what this new campaign is about
– encouraging people to ditch their preconceptions of Hyundai, based on what the brand used to be, by showcasing the excellence of the current product line-up. And we’re pleased we have been able to do so with the same injection of humour that characterised the first campaign. While the messaging is serious, having a bit of fun helps to drive engagement.”
The idea for the new film came from advertising agency, Innocean UK, and was shot by Jeroen Mol, the director behind the New Dawn advert.
The full advert can be watched here: https://youtu.be/ hK4IlPKBWRc
SCouncillors may be victims of ‘spurious’ claims, Cabinet hears
PEMBROKESHIRE had 24 councillor code of conduct complaints in 2023-‘24, but those who put themselves in public service can be “a target” for “spurious” claims, senior heard today, November 4.
Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet members at their November 4 meeting, in a report presented by Cabinet Member for Communities, Corporate Improvement and the Well-being of Future Generations Cllr Neil Prior, heard The Public Services Ombudsman for Wales (PSOW), in its annual letter, highlighted six code of conduct complaints relating to Pembrokeshire county councillors, down from eight the previous year, and 18 relating to town and community councils, up from 14 the previous year.
For 2023/24 there was a decision not to investigate on all six county council complaints; a similar decision made the previous year.
For the town and community councils, Fishguard and Goodwick had one complaint with a decision not to investigate; Haverfordwest five, along with one no decision necessary; Hundleton, Milford Haven, St Dogmaels and Lamphey one decision not to investigate each; Neyland six decisions not to investigate; Tenby one no evidence of a breach.
There were 22 code complaints in 2021/22; 16 relating to county councillors and six to town or community
Ceredigion 32 for the same time period.
councillors.
The Ombudsman also said it received 40 complaints in respect of Pembrokeshire County Council itself, down from 44 last year, the highest amounts being housing 14, complaints handling 12, and planning and building control five.
Neighbouring authorities Carmarthenshire received 69 and
Cllr Prior said it was “absolutely right” that any claims should be investigated, but added: “But some of these claims can be spurious, and I’ve been on the end of one that was dismissed.”
He added: “It’s difficult being a councillor, whether you are town or county because you are a target; people who put themselves in the public light are likely to get shot at.”
Council Leader Cllr Jon Harvey echoed his sentiments: “We all do, to a greater or lesser degree, sometimes take a hit on social media, but that is the modern world we live in unfortunately.”
Members agreed to note the report.
The letter had previously been considered at the October meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Standards Committee.
Pembrokeshire Council to spend over £2m on Microsoft contract
A £2M-PLUS Microsoft computer software licensing contract to allow Pembrokeshire County Council to continue to function as an organisation has been backed by senior councillors.
At the November 4 meeting of the council’s Cabinet, members were recommended to give delegated authority to the Director of Resources to secure a three-year contract, with a one-year extension, for the licensing of Microsoft 365 (M365) Productivity Suite software which includes Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Teams video and collaboration, Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and Sharepoint, all universally used across the council.
The licensing will cost some £2,100,000 – £2,200,000 based on benchmarked pricing from Crown Commercial Services; the
current arrangement is due to expire on December 13.
A report for members said it was a requirement to conduct the Council’s day-today business, in addition to safeguarding ICT activities.
“With decreasing budgets and resource, the task of procuring and ensuring best value is proving more challenging. CCS offers a free aggregation service to help public sector organisations make savings through the power of collective buying, which would not be possible through individual buying. One such exercise being run by CCS is the aggregation for a Microsoft licence solutions partner covering all Microsoft licensing products.”
Presenting the recommendation to fellow Cabinet members, Cabinet Member for Communities, Corporate Improvement and the Well-being of Future Generations Cllr Neil Prior said: “We wouldn’t be able to run this organisation without Microsoft software,” adding the cost of changing to a different system would be “enormous”.
Council Leader Cllr Jon
Harvey questioned the large sum of money, and was told it boiled down to £18.83 per month per service user.
Members agreed to delegate the decision to award a contract to a Microsoft licence solutions partner following the CCS aggregated tender exercise.
Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter
Academics give evidence on plan to ban lying politicians
SENEDD members took evidence about proposals to ban lying politicians, with academic experts warning that misleading the public can have catastrophic consequences.
The standards committee heard from academics following a Welsh Government promise to bring forward a law by 2026 to disqualify politicians found guilty of deliberate deception.
Andrew Blick, director of the Constitution Society, an educational charity, said misleading the public is as old as politics but the nature of the problem has morphed due to technology.
He raised the example of misinformation proliferating online fuelling riots in the UK over the summer, saying it showed how misleading the public can have catastrophic consequences.
Prof Blick said: “I think we are seeing a movement towards harder regulation.”
Giving evidence on November 4, the politics professor at King’s College London described the proposals as “path breaking” in the UK and potentially internationally.
“We welcome the fact that this subject’s being taken seriously,” he said. “The misleading of the public is clearly a problem constitutionally and democratically.”
Labour’s Hannah Blythyn, who chairs the committee, questioned whether deception would be best dealt with by creating an offence or strengthening existing arrangements.
Dexter Govan, director of research at the Constitution Society, suggested a criminal offence could act as a deterrent but he cautioned against overly severe penalties.
Dr Govan told the committee his primary concern would be
around timeframes, saying:
“If it takes two years to action such an offence, there are real issues there.”
Prof Blick added: “We don’t have a specific position but I think making it a criminal offence … it does signify … that this is a serious matter.”
He contrasted this with a “rap on the knuckles from a committee”, with people in the outside world seeing it as politicians sitting in judgement of themselves.
Prof Blick pointed to evidence that trust in politicians is at an all-time low in the “veracity index” poll which has been published since 1983.
“This could be part of a package of measures that might help…,” he said.
“It could raise the stakes in terms of the possible negative consequences for not telling the truth … so it could contribute to a cultural change.”
Pressed about a need to distinguish between politicians’ public and private lives, Prof Blick said a court would be capable of addressing the issue case by case.
The Conservatives’ James Evans raised concerns about politicisation of the courts.
Prof Blick pointed out the courts are not excluded from political matters, raising the example of the successful 2019 case against Boris Johnson’s decision to “prorogue” Parliament.
He told the committee it is regrettable if the courts have to get involved but he suggested this backstop is often preferable to self-regulation.
Labour’s Mick Antoniw raised concerns about the potential impact on the principle of privilege, which provides certain legal protections for what’s said in parliament.
BLUe vIeW
CLLR MARK CARteR.
Farmers Dealt A Crushing Blow by UK Government Budget
He pointed to Labour’s plans to extend parliamentary privilege across the UK, with Dr Govan replying: “I do think there’s a world in which the two things can co-exist.”
Mr Antoniw, who was formerly counsel general, the Welsh Government’s chief legal adviser, said: “The creation of a criminal offence effectively removes parliamentary privilege… it means anything you say can potentially be reported as a criminal offence.”
Prof Blick called for an overhaul of parliamentary privilege which dates to the 17th century.
He pointed out Boris Johnson could have been removed from office if he did not stand down, with the former Prime Minister describing standards processes as a “kangaroo court”.
Prof Blick told the committee: “We are actually moving –potentially, if we go down the path we’re talking about today – to a full judicial proceeding, so in that sense it could be helpful.”
Plaid Cymru’s Adam Price has spearheaded calls for a ban on deliberate deception, striking a last-minute deal with the Welsh Government in July to bring forward legislation.
Mr Price, a former MP who was once ejected from the House of Commons for accusing Tony Blair of lying, warned: “In a selfregulating parliament, politics will always win.”
Prof Blick agreed the central question must be: “Is selfregulation enough in this area?”
Asked whether the courts intervening could be used as a “badge of honour” by those on the far left and right, Prof Blick hoped to see a longer-term cultural shift.
He told committee members: “I can see an even bigger problem with saying, ‘It’s all hopeless, so why are we trying?’.”
Last week, the new UK Government delivered its first Autumn budget – a budget that they promised would rebuild Britain and fix the foundations of the economy. However, the budget dealt a catastrophic blow to British farmers, as the Chancellor announced a huge change to agricultural property relief, which will change the face of British farming enormously.
Agricultural property relief, or APR as it’s better known, is a relief from inheritance tax and it was introduced in 1984 to protect farms from being sold when a farmer dies, and as a result it provides intergenerational farming security, allowing a farmer’s child or children to take on the farm without being subject to tax bills.
However, last week’s UK Government’s budget confirmed that from April 2026, the first £1m of the value of agricultural properties will be exempt from inheritance tax, but anything above that will now be subject to inheritance tax of 20%.
Now, whilst a £1m threshold sounds like it will impact only the wealthy, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) has said that the Chancellor’s announcement will apply to around 70,000 farms. Farmers in Pembrokeshire and further afield are often asset-rich but cash poor and many will now be considering whether to sell their farms before April 2026.
We here in Pembrokeshire know that farming is a physically and mentally intense job and it’s not for everyone. It’s often lonely, low paid and farmers in recent years have had to endure
more and more red tape and regulation. In a lot of cases, many farmers farm because it’s their family vocation and so when this new rule applies, many farms are likely to die out. As NFU Cymru President Aled Jones rightly said, “Unless we see an urgent reconsideration by the UK Government, I am afraid we are going to see the breakup of multi-generational family farms.”
I can’t stress just how big of an issue this is for us all – farmers or not. If family farms are sold, then we’re facing a food security crisis and higher food prices.
Farmers in Pembrokeshire are right to be furious. The UK Government have not considered just how damaging this policy will be – or even worse, they’ve considered it but carried on regardless.
Farming is at the heart of everything we do in Pembrokeshire and I’m proud to represent a rural constituency that prides itself on top quality produce. In one quick move, the UK Government has threatened that. We cannot allow this to go ahead – there are petitions circulating across the internet and I urge you to sign them. We must stand shoulder to shoulder with our farmers and show them that we support them. I will be doing everything I can to challenge this at the Senedd and urge the Welsh Government to intervene.
The Chancellor may think her budget will fix the foundations of the economy – this move in my view, shatters one of our foundations. Now, we have to work together and exhaust all possible options to persuade the UK Government to drop this policy before it’s too late.
Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter
W I t H ANDREW LyE
Democrat Leader Ed Davey, has commented on the Chancellor’s Budget.
“After years of chaos and decline under the Conservatives, people were looking to the Budget for a fresh start.
For a sense of hope, urgency, and the promise of a fair deal.
But I fear this Budget won’t deliver that.
The Conservatives left behind an enormous mess in our NHS, and I’m afraid it won’t be fixed, unless the Government fixes social care.
The cost-of-living crisis won’t be solved by hitting families and pensioners, family farms and struggling small businesses.
And our economy won’t grow strongly – unless we repair our broken relationship with Europe.
I’m glad that the Government has listened to Liberal Democrat calls for more investment in the NHS, to start repairing all the damage done to local health services by the Conservatives. We will now hold the Government to account on delivering its promises so people can see a GP or dentist when they need to.
I’m also glad that the Chancellor listened to our campaign on Carer’s Allowance – the focus of our first opposition day debate earlier this month. Raising the earnings limit is a good first step, but we will continue pushing Ministers to abolish the unfair cliff-edge altogether and to hold a broader review to give carers the support they deserve.
But I worry that the Government is still ignoring the elephant in the NHS waiting room: the crisis in social care. That’s why today, I urged the Government to end
the dither and delay and finally start cross-party talks on social care now.
And on tax, it is very concerning to see the Chancellor repeat a number of the Conservatives’ mistakes today. Raising employer’s national insurance is a tax on jobs and high streets, and it will make the health and care crisis worse by hitting thousands of small care providers.
Instead of raising the money we need by reversing Conservative tax cuts for the big banks, or asking the social media and tech giants to pay a bit more, the Government has chosen unfair tax hikes that will hurt the hardworking families, small businesses and family farms that are the engines of our economy.
There’s no doubt that the decisions facing the Chancellor were very tough indeed. But I fear she has got too many of them wrong.
We needed a different budget to repair the damage done to our country – and to give people the fair deal they deserve. For our constituents, the Liberal Democrats will continue to push the Government to do far better for our economy, the NHS and care.”
The Liberal Democrats are calling for GPs, as well as companies running care homes and offering care to people in their homes, to also be shielded from the hike.
Speaking to reporters, leader Sir Ed Davey also said an exemption should cover pharmacists, adding the hike would “really hit” healthcare providers.
“They’ve exempted the hospitals, for example, they need to exempt the GPs and the pharmacists.”
If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales
Why experts think Trump’s
win will be
blow to UK economy and your wallet
DONALD TRUMP’S return to the US presidency casts an uncertain shadow over the UK, potentially leading to economic shocks that could burden British households with higher costs, lower growth, and less job security. His policy unpredictability and “America First” doctrine spell challenges for UK businesses, while his strong-willed approach to trade and foreign policy could drive a wedge between the two countries.
TRADE TENSIONS COULD COST UK EXPORTERS
Trump’s protectionist stance has reignited concerns about tariffs, which could cut deep into the UK economy. The US is Britain’s largest export market, receiving around 25% of all UK-manufactured exports. Proposed tariffs of up to 10% on imports to the US would affect major British exporters such as Rolls Royce and BAE Systems, impacting an estimated £56 billion in trade. If enacted, such tariffs could push costs higher, threatening thousands of jobs in sectors dependent on American demand.
A STRAINED UK-US RELATIONSHIP
While Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy have made diplomatic overtures to Trump, attending dinners and working closely with Trump’s allies, challenges in the relationship remain evident. Starmer’s reserved style contrasts with Trump’s brash manner, raising questions about how compatible their leadership styles are. This uncertainty, highlighted by one diplomat’s remark that Trump “doesn’t give a stuff” about UK relations, suggests a bumpy road ahead.
Diplomats have tirelessly built relationships with Trump’s inner circle, including former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Trump’s likely national security adviser, Elbridge Colby. However, Trump’s mercurial nature, marked by unpredictable social media outbursts and contentious negotiations, may test these connections. As Lammy put it, relations with Trump are likely to be “bumpy, noisy, and transactional.”
ECONOMIC FALLOUT AND SLOWER GROWTH
The potential for UK economic slowdown under Trump’s policies is profound. Economists from the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) predict UK growth will be halved if Trump enforces his proposed tariffs. Without tariffs, the UK could expect moderate growth of around 1.2% next year; however, this figure could drop as low as 0.4% should the
trade restrictions come into force. Coupled with rising inflation, this could lead to diminished purchasing power for households already grappling with a cost-of-living crisis.
CURRENCY VOLATILITY AND JOB THREATS
Trump’s victory has already weakened the pound, with the GBP/ USD exchange rate falling sharply as results came in. Investors are wary of increased tariffs and Trump’s isolationist policies, both of which could stoke currency volatility and strain the UK economy. A weakened pound also drives up the cost of imports, which affects consumers directly through higher prices for everyday goods.
The potential loss of thousands of jobs in sectors heavily reliant on US trade adds to the bleak outlook. Automotive manufacturing, for instance, could be heavily impacted by Trump’s threat of a 100% tariff on imported cars. Companies like Jaguar Land Rover, whose Land Rover Defender was one of the UK’s top exports to the US, may face cutbacks if tariffs make exports uncompetitive.
UNCERTAIN INVESTMENT ENVIRONMENT
The UK’s global-facing stock market may also suffer. Companies in the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250, which derive significant profits from international operations, could experience volatility as Trump’s policies introduce uncertainty into transatlantic trade. Such uncertainty could lead investors to shy away from the UK market, diminishing capital inflows and further affecting economic growth.
SHIFTS IN GLOBAL PRIORITIES
Beyond economic pressures, Trump’s foreign policy outlook
could exacerbate the UK’s security challenges. Trump’s “America First” rhetoric and emphasis on Asia over Europe may leave European allies, including the UK, less confident about US support for initiatives like defending Ukraine. While the UK has publicly aligned with Trump’s view that Europe should shoulder more of its defense costs, there are fears that a US pivot to Asia could weaken the cohesion of NATO and reduce military backing for Europe. Lammy has attempted to foster an understanding of Trump’s instincts, acknowledging his focus on American interests and recognition of Asia’s growing influence. However, as the UK looks toward cooperation on issues like Ukraine, this alignment may prove insufficient in securing the support needed to address shared security concerns.
BRITISH FAMILIES TO SHOULDER THE COST
For British families, the impact of a Trump presidency could hit close to home. With increased tariffs potentially driving up inflation by 3-4%, the Bank of England may feel compelled to raise interest rates by as much as 2-3% in response. For households already feeling the pinch from rising prices, this could lead to higher mortgage costs, increased borrowing rates, and a tougher job market, further squeezing living standards.
Though the UK government has prepared for Trump’s return, the effectiveness of these plans remains to be seen. As Britain braces for another unpredictable chapter with Trump at the helm, citizens may face a “bumpy, noisy, and transactional” relationship that could reshape the economy, impacting everything from job security to the prices at the supermarket.
Drakeford confirms public sector shielded from tax hike
MARK DRAKEFORD
confirmed the UK Treasury will cover increased costs of national insurance in the public sector amid concerns additional funding could be “swallowed up” by tax rises.
The former First Minister said Wales will receive full funding for employer national insurance (NI) contributions for public sector workers, as defined by the Office for National Statistics.
He told the Senedd this will be “above and beyond” an additional £1.7bn announced for Wales last week in Labour’s first UK budget in 15 years.
Prof Drakeford, Wales’ finance secretary, who will announce the Welsh Government’s own spending plans in December, described the UK settlemen as a step change.
But he stressed: “It was never going to be possible to repair 14 years’ worth of damage within the first 14 weeks of a UK Labour Government.”
Prof Drakeford explained the Welsh Government will receive £235m in 2025/26 for capital investment in areas such as repairing schools or building hospitals.
In a statement to the Senedd on November 5, he said: “That is a real-terms 7% increase in a single year. That compares with 0.5% a year on average over the last 14
years.
“In 14 years of the last Conservative government, the annual uplift in capital available to the Welsh Government accumulated to the uplift we have now received in a single year.”
He contrasted this with an extra £1m in capital spending provided by Jeremy Hunt, the former Tory chancellor, in March, stating Wales now is 235 times better off.
He said: “That additional capital will not fill every hole nor undo all the damage inflicted on the fabric of our public services but it is a different world to the one we had learned to fear.”
Peter Fox, the Conservatives’ shadow finance secretary, criticised the “snatch-and-grab” budget, accusing Labour of misleading the public and breaking manifesto promises.
He told the debating chamber or Siambr: “Despite all the spin, this is the same old Labour: borrowing more, taxing more – taking more of other people’s money.”
Mr Fox said the £40bn in tax rises, which includes employers’ NI contributions, will suppress economic growth and wages, costing jobs and impacting thousands of working people.
PLAID Cymru Westminster Leader
Liz Saville Roberts MP has accused Labour of “hypocrisy” and ”cynical manipulation”, as Treasury documents reveal that the proportion of funding allocated to Wales arising from transport funding in England is further decreasing under Labour.
Wales” project as “utterly illogical”, comparing it with London’s Crossrail project, which did lead to additional funding for Wales.
Yet, now as Secretary of State, Ms Stevens has not supported calls to correct the Treasury’s formula, with the situation in fact deteriorating even further.
Accusing Rachel Reeves of “fiscal fiddling”, he warned the chancellor is playing a dangerous game that risks saddling generations with debt by maxing out the country’s credit card today.
His Conservative colleague James Evans raised concerns about care homes and GP surgeries, which, unlike the health service, will not be protected from the NI hike.
Heledd Fychan suggested calls for HS2 funding, devolution of the Crown Estate and replacement of the Barnett formula had fallen on deaf ears.
Prof Drakeford said Welsh ministers would continue to make the case for rail funding and reform of the formula that is used to allocate money to Wales.
But he stressed it is unrealistic to expect fundamental change in six months, with the Barnett formula dating to 1978 and reform requiring agreement across all four nations.
Ms Fychan, Plaid Cymru’s shadow finance secretary, told the Senedd that cruel and damaging policies of the previous Tory UK Government are continuing under Labour.
Her party colleague Sioned Williams was disappointed the UK’s first female chancellor did not mention childcare in her speech given its importance to tackling inequality.
Rachel Reeves’ Budget included announcements for English rail, such as the TransPennine Route Upgrade, the OxfordCambridge line, and the HS2 extension from Old Oak Common to London Euston. However, the Chancellor made no announcements regarding Welsh rail investment.
Ms Saville Roberts said that Labour were “hitting the brakes on Welsh rail while England speeds ahead”.
While the devolved governments of Scotland and Northern Ireland each receive transport funding based on a 95.6% comparability factor under the Barnett formula, Wales’ comparability factor for transport has shrunk drastically – from 80.9% in 2015 to 36.6% in 2021, and now to 33.5% in 2024.
The ballooning amount spent on England’s HS2 project is largely to blame for this change, which results in additional funding for Scotland and Northern Ireland, but not to Wales.
Ms Saville Roberts highlighted that in 2022, Labour’s then-Shadow Secretary of State for Wales described the classification of HS2 as an “England and
Liz Saville Roberts MP, Plaid Cymru Westminster Leader, said: “Labour has gone from criticising the Tories for short-changing Wales on rail funding in 2022 to actively make the situation worse in 2024.
“Under Rachel Reeves, the Treasury’s cynical manipulation of the funding formula has further deteriorated.
“The decrease in the share of rail funding going to Wales is due to the ever-increasing cost of England’s HS2, which rightly leads to extra cash for Scotland and Northern Ireland, but not to Wales.
“When Jo Stevens, the Secretary of State for Wales, was in opposition, she described the situation as ‘utterly illogical.’ Yet, Labour is using the very same illogical tactic to deprive Wales of funding. It smacks of hypocrisy.
“Despite ample opportunities to rectify this injustice, the Labour government has chosen to ignore Welsh rail in this Budget.
Labour is hitting the brakes on Welsh rail while England speeds ahead, further eroding the Welsh rail funding settlement.
Despite promising change, it is clear that Labour is just as indifferent to our needs as their predecessors.”
Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter
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AN IMPRACTICAL AND INNUMERATE MADNESS
DEAR SIR,
This Remembrance Day, we once again take time to remember all servicemen and women who died in the world wars and in other conflicts. It is a day to remember the sacrifice and service of the people who have defended our freedoms.
The huge loss of life in both World Wars is almost incomprehensible today; each individual loss was grieved by families, loved ones, and fellow soldiers, sailors, or aviators. For those at home, lives were forever changed by death, and for many who did return, their lives were never the same again.
&
This time of year gives us the opportunity to pause together to remember those who have died in all conflicts throughout the decades and we will ensure that their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Those selfless and humble individuals are an inspiration to all of us who have followed in their footsteps.
People who serve in the Royal Air Force today continue to demonstrate unwavering determination, resilience, compassion and skill in the face of evolving global challenges. Many are enriched by their Service but for some, the physical and mental impact of their roles can remain with them for the rest of their lives.
For over 105 years, the RAF Benevolent Fund has provided life-changing practical, emotional and financial support to those who serve, veterans, and their families. We will continue to be there, alongside the RAF Family, ready to act when needed – now and in the years ahead.
Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot Controller, RAF Benevolent Fund
eD MILIBAND’S GRASP oN REALITy
DEAR SIR,
ON 5 November, Ed Miliband posted on social media platform X that “independent” advice from NESO Energy “provides conclusive proof that clean power by 2030 is not only achievable, but desirable, and can lead to cheaper electricity and a more secure energy system for Britain.”
However, NESO Energy’s sole owner and director is Miliband himself, so the “independence” of this advice is questionable.
At 4:00 pm on the same day, data from Gridwatch UK showed that our electricity was being sourced from Combined Cycle Gas (63%), Nuclear (13%), Biomass from
the polluting Drax (8%), Hydro (4%), with renewables such as Wind (4%) and Solar (0%) contributing minimal amounts, despite daylight. Britain was also importing electricity from France, Belgium, and Norway (8%), while exporting to Denmark and the Netherlands (4%). Earlier that afternoon, wind provided just 1GW out of a 35GW demand. If Miliband’s vision of eliminating gas, biomass, and imports is to be realized, it would leave us with a nearly 80% shortfall in energy needs, an impossible gap to fill in just five years.
The NESO Report itself acknowledges this. It states that a “secure” clean power system will require gas plants to remain operational until 2030 and beyond. In other words, “clean power” would still rely on a full fleet of gas plants on standby for when renewables fail to meet demand — as they did on 5 November.
Miliband’s claim of cheaper electricity also doesn’t hold up. According to NESO’s Table 4, any potential savings from “clean power” are offset by costs for curtailment, exporting at low rates, storage, and grid expansion, resulting in a net increase of £10 per MW/H. This is not “cheaper electricity.” The report’s recommendation to pursue unproven technologies, like carbon capture and storage, and contract unprecedented levels of offshore wind capacity, assumes flawless execution and no delays. Considering the financial over-runs with projects like HS2, this seems wildly optimistic. In short, Miliband’s statement appears flawed on multiple counts. Renewable energy will always require conventional backup, doubling our infrastructure and resources at significant cost. Terry Breverton
PIc TURe oF THe weeK! fireworks display at Milford Haven by paul davies
Death Notices
D APHN e Mo IRA Mo RGAN
Daphne passed away peacefully at Withybush General Hospital, Haverfordwest on the 15th October 2024 aged 81 years. Dearly loved, she will be sadly missed by her family her many friends.A service of celebration will be held at St. Mary’s Church, Haverfordwest on Friday 8th November at 1.00pm. Family flowers only.Donations, if desired, in memory of Daphne for The Paul Sartori Foundation or The Pembrokeshire Blind Society can be sent c/o Mr. David Morgan, 12 Rockfield Rise, Undy, Monmouthshire, NP26 3FG. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821
Lo RNA JoyC e H ADL oW
The death occurred suddenly, but peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Thursday 24th October 2024 of Mrs. Lorna Joyce Hadlow affectionately known as ‘Joy’ aged 86 years of St. Florence, Tenby. Devoted and loving Wife of Graham.
The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 12th November at St. Mary’s Church, Redberth at 11.00am followed by interment at St. Florence Church Cemetery.
There will be family flowers only with donations, if so desired for St. Mary’s Church, Redberth c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth (01834) 831876 & 21, Main Street, Pembroke (01646) 682680 who are conducting the funeral arrangements.
Cy RIL J AMES O RMOND
Peacefully on Friday 25th, October,
at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest. Cyril of Stoneleigh, Clunderwen, beloved husband of Megan dear father, father-in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Funeral Service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Thursday, 14th November at 10.45a.m.
Family flowers only.
Donations if so desired towards The Paul Sartori Foundation, received by Ken Davies & Sons, Funeral Directors, Clunderwen. Tel: 01437 563319
JoAN Sy Lv IA S C o URFI e LD
The death occurred peacefully at South Pembrokeshire Hospital, Pembroke Dock on Friday 25th October of Mrs Joan Sylvia Scourfield, aged 81 of Carew Mountain Cresselly. Devoted wife of the late Roy. Dearly loved Mother to Richard and daughterin-law Karen, Robert and partner Elin. Fond grandmother to Jacqueline and Hazel. Joan will be sadly missed by her family, many friends and neighbours.
The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 12th November at St. Mary’s Church, Carew Cheriton at 2.30pm followed by interment in the Church Cemetery.
There will family flowers only with donations, if so desired for St. Mary’s Church, Carew Cheriton
c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 & 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680
eLI z AB et H J AMI e S o N BoWL e R
The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday 4th.
October of Mrs. Elizabeth Bowler of Front Street, Pembroke Dock (and formerly of Tenby).
Beloved wife of the late Don, she was 91 and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
The funeral will take place on Friday 15th. November with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 2.30.pm where friends please meet.
No flowers please but if desired, donations in lieu for The Donkey Sanctuary may be sent toJohn Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.
E LISE yVONNE P RICE
Peacefully on the 20th of September at Williamston Nursing Home, Houghton, Mrs Elise Yvonne Price passed away.
Beloved wife of the late Norman Price of Sun Cottage, Mutton Farm, Solva, cherished mother and mother in
law to Robert, Norman and Catherine, Mark and Denise. Devoted Grandma to Sam, Norman, James, Rhodri, Carwyn, Kelsea, Chloe-Lou and Kara. Who will be greatly missed by her family.
DAPHN e Mo IRA Mo RGAN
Daphne Moira Morgan of Haverfordwest Daphne passed away peacefully at Withybush General Hospital, Haverfordwest on the 15th October 2024 aged 81 years. Dearly loved, she will be sadly missed by her family her many friends. A service of celebration will be held at St. Mary’s Church, Haverfordwest on Friday 8th November at 1.00pm. Family flowers only. Donations, if desired, in memory of Daphne for The Paul Sartori Foundation or The Pembrokeshire Blind Society can be sent ℅ Mr. David Morgan, 12 Rockfield Rise, Undy, Monmouthshire, NP26 3FG. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.
SeRvIceS
This weekend’s Division 4 West rugby roundup
THE latest fixtures in Division 4 West delivered intense clashes, narrow escapes, and exhilarating victories as teams showcased their determination and skill. Here’s a breakdown of the matches and standout moments.
Dreigiau Emlyn 7-10 St Davids
St Davids claimed a narrow 10-7 win over Dreigiau Emlyn in a hard-fought match. Celt Davies put Dreigiau Emlyn on the scoreboard with a try, converted by Llew Morgan. St Davids responded with tries from Ethan Griffiths and Dan Murphy, with Bob Froy converting one. Despite Dreigiau Emlyn’s strong defensive stand, St Davids held on for a slim victory.
Llangwm 23-21 Pembroke Dock
In a thrilling contest, Llangwm edged out Pembroke Dock by just two points, finishing 23-21. George James led Llangwm’s scoring with a try, two conversions, and three penalties. Gethin Thomas added a try, pushing Llangwm into a narrow lead. Pembroke
Dock fought back with tries from Harry Owen, Danny Wilkes, and Morgan Rogers, all converted by Ben Hathaway. However, Llangwm’s precise penalty kicks clinched the close contest.
Llanybydder 24-31 Pembroke
Pembroke emerged victorious in a high-scoring 3124 match against Llanybydder. Llanybydder displayed resilience with tries from Arwel Williams, Matthew Rollings,
Ifan Mason-Evans, and Griff Morgans, two of which were converted by Rollings. Pembroke’s offense proved too strong, with tries from Robin Badham, Jack Oliver, Fraser James, Dai Rogers, and Toby Edwards, alongside three conversions by Josh Greenwood. Pembroke’s offensive depth secured the win in this lively encounter.
Neyland 20-23 Narberth Athletic
Narberth Athletic pulled off a close 23-20 victory over Neyland, with Shane Rossiter at the heart of the action, scoring all of Narberth’s points through three tries, two penalties, and a conversion. Neyland responded admirably, with tries from Luke Griffiths-Dawes (2) and Josh Watts, while Oli Rothero added a conversion and a penalty. Rossiter’s consistent performance under pressure proved decisive, securing Narberth Athletic’s hard-earned win.
Swansea sign free-agent defender Cyrus Christie
SWANSEA CITY have bolstered their defence with the signing of 32-year-old Cyrus Christie on a contract until the end of the season.
The former Hull City defender, who has been a free agent since his departure at the close of last season, has been training with Swansea since early October. Head coach Luke Williams views Christie as a versatile addition, capable of covering any position across the backline.
Christie returns to Swansea for a second stint, having previously impressed during a loan spell in the second half of the 202122 season. During that period, he made 23 appearances and scored three goals after joining from Fulham. While former Swansea boss Russell Martin had shown interest in making Christie’s move permanent, the Republic of Ireland international ultimately opted to sign with Hull City.
“He is experienced at this level, a powerful athlete who can both defend and attack, so I am really happy,” Williams commented. “We lack some Championship experience, and Christie provides a physical presence that’s especially valuable in the absence of players like Ben Cabango and Harry Darling.”
WRU to apologise over contract dispute but denies sexism claims
THE WELSH RUGBY UNION has announced it will apologise for its handling of contract negotiations with the senior women’s team but refutes recent allegations of sexism.
WRU Chair Richard CollierKeywood and Chief Executive Abi Tierney acknowledged significant failings in the process, admitting that it is “absolutely clear” the governing body owes an apology to the players.
The BBC reported this week that a leaked email showed players were threatened with exclusion from both WXV2 and next year’s World Cup as talks deteriorated. On August 2, players were given a “final offer” ultimatum with a strict three-hour deadline. If they didn’t sign, matches against New Zealand, Scotland, and Australia were set to be cancelled, and contracts withdrawn.
This episode surfaces amid recent claims of sexism and inequality, less than a year after an independent review condemned the WRU’s internal culture following a BBC Wales investigation.
“This is not a good day for us; we totally accept that. We should have done better and didn’t, but we’ve learned our lessons and will keep trying to improve,” said CollierKeywood.
The WRU is expected to publish recommendations from a review of the negotiation process later this month, which has been fast-tracked following a Telegraph report on Thursday.
Key findings of the report
The WRU has disclosed early findings, which include:
• A failure to recognise the growth and change in the women’s professional game.
• An error in issuing the three-hour signing deadline.
• Strong differences on how to develop women’s rugby in Wales.
• Players were inexperienced in negotiations and left isolated.
• Players considered striking before a match against Scotland on September 6.
• Poor communication and lack of transparency escalated tensions, worsened by inappropriate behaviour at various stages.
The report states that sexism was not a factor behind the failings.
“There are sweeping criticisms in the report along with clear recommendations for change,” Collier-Keywood said, emphasizing the need for an apology and further engagement with the national team.
‘Sexism not apparent’
Independent board members Alison Thorne and Claire Donovan, who conducted the review, stated that while inappropriate behaviour was noted, sexism was not evident.
“After more than 50 hours of discussions with everyone involved, I did not sense that sexism was part of the issue,” said Donovan. Reflecting on her own 15-year rugby career, she acknowledged the past prevalence of sexism but said the grievances in this
although they lost their opening two matches.
The Welsh government, previously critical of the WRU over a misogyny scandal last year, expressed concern over these latest issues, calling for an urgent meeting with the WRU.
A spokesperson added: “We expect our national sporting bodies to lead by example.”
Government response
On Monday (Nov 5) Jack Sargeant, Minister for Culture, Skills & Social Partnership made a statement in The Senedd. He said: “Today, I met with the Chair of the Welsh Rugby Union, Richard Collier-Keywood, Chief Executive Officer, Abi Tierney, and Nigel Walker, Executive Director of Rugby. This meeting was arranged urgently following media focus over the weekend regarding allegations of sexism faced by the women’s national team in their contract negotiations.
case appeared to stem from “a lack of respect and understanding of power dynamics.”
The WRU has also committed an additional £6 million toward women’s and girls’ rugby over the next five years, raising the total investment to £26 million.
Accusations of ‘blackmail’
Despite the WRU awarding 37 full-time contracts, Jess Kavanagh, a former Wales wing, criticised the WRU, suggesting the contract process bordered on “blackmail.” She questioned if the WRU had genuinely learned from past mistakes.
“We’ve heard apologies for years about various issues in the WRU, but apologies mean nothing until we see real change,” Kavanagh said. “Being forced to sign a contract under threat – that’s blackmail. In 2024, that should not happen in any workplace.”
Performance impact
Wales’ performance has suffered during the dispute, with the team finishing at the bottom of the 2024 Women’s Six Nations, managing only one win against Italy. Collier-Keywood acknowledged that the tension surrounding contracts may have contributed to the poor performance.
“There was unnecessary stress, which I believe affected performance. People were distracted, and that’s on us,” he stated.
The contracts were eventually signed just before Wales traveled to South Africa for WXV2 in September,
“I expressed my disappointment that Welsh rugby was in the headlines for the wrong reasons, especially in the context of recent history. The aim of the meeting was to seek clarity around the circumstances that have taken place in relation to contract negotiations for women’s players and how improvements to existing process can be taken forward more positively in future.
“The WRU is in the process of concluding an internal review and has already accepted some failings of process and areas for improvement have been identified. I have not yet seen a draft of the review, but a summary has been published by the WRU. The WRU will be looking to meet with the players shortly to issue an apology for those aspects of the process that fell below the standards we would all expect.
“Over coming days, I will be seeking to understand various perspectives on this process and to satisfy myself that lessons are being learned. I am offering to meet with the players to understand directly from them the nature of their concerns and see how we can help all parties move forward constructively. I will also be seeking a meeting with the review’s authors.
“I want to see Welsh rugby, at all levels, grow and thrive. I am committed to working closely with the WRU and the players to deliver a successful sustainable game in Wales which provides better outcomes for everyone.
“I will keep members updated as we make progress matters over the coming weeks.”
Hakin Reserves soar with 7-0 victory over Broad Haven
HAKIN UNITED RESERVES
stormed to a decisive 7-0 victory over Broad Haven at Peasy Park on Saturday (Nov 2), reinforcing their position at the top of the Division 2 table. The young Vikings showcased skill and dominance, with teenage central midfielder Evan Rutherford delivering an impressive hat trick, though the men of the match honors were shared by central pivot George Wheeler and center-half Dylan McGuire.
Goalkeeper Josh Lewis, in Hakin’s net, had little to do as McGuire marshaled the defense effectively alongside teammates Sam Houston, Dan Williams, and Henry Mayhew. Broad Haven’s forwards, James Morgan and Marco Valentine, found themselves outmatched, unable to keep up with the energy and discipline of Hakin’s youthful lineup.
The Vikings struck early when Corey Riley was fouled by Broad Haven’s Adam Baker within two minutes, earning a penalty that Rutherford converted, sending home keeper Rhys Owen the wrong way. Riley doubled the lead a minute later with a sharp finish, and
soon after, captain Tom Evans set up Rutherford for his second goal, making it 3-0 before ten minutes had elapsed.
Hakin’s Tyler Williams, excelling in the defensive midfield role, added a fourth on the half-hour mark with a powerful drive. Despite Owen’s multiple saves from attempts by Riley, Rutherford, and winger Mason Dolling, Broad Haven’s defense struggled to contain Hakin’s relentless attack. Shortly before halftime, Shane Howells’ injury forced Broad Haven to make a change, but Riley capitalized on the disruption, making it 5-0 just before the whistle.
In the second half, Hakin continued their offensive push, with substitute Tom Edmond scoring off a Rutherford assist. Rutherford completed his hat trick in the 75th minute with an impressive solo effort, maneuvering skillfully past defenders before slotting a right-footed finish past the advancing Owen. Following this, Rutherford was substituted for his cousin Ollie Mayhew, who made his senior debut on his sixteenth birthday.
While the scoreline remained unchanged, Wheeler maintained
control of Hakin’s offensive play, linking effectively with substitute Jayden Barrett. Both Wheeler and McGuire look set to play pivotal roles in the club’s first team in the near future.
Broad Haven now faces a crucial
Hakin triumph in dominant derby win over Milford United
HAKIN UNITED showcased their title credentials with a commanding 5-0 victory over local rivals Milford United in a derby clash at Marble Hall. The Mighty Vikings, determined to keep pace with league leaders Goodwick, set the tone early in the winter afternoon kickoff, with a crowd of supporters braving the cold to witness the much-anticipated match.
Referee David Badger, one of the Pembrokeshire League’s most experienced officials, kept order throughout the encounter, ensuring smooth play despite moments of tension. Hakin wasted no time asserting dominance, with in-form Shane Walsh opening the scoring after linking up seamlessly with his teammates. Leon Luby’s impressive run shortly afterward enabled Ryan Wilson to double the lead, sending Hakin into halftime with a comfortable advantage.
Milford United returned for the second half with renewed intent, pressing Hakin hard in the initial 15 minutes. Tensions briefly rose as the referee addressed a few issues with the Hakin club linesman, but Badger’s steady handling of the situation kept the match under control.
Hakin’s manager, Scott Davies, made strategic substitutions, reasserting control in the latter part of the game. Walsh struck again to extend the lead, while substitute
match next week at the Gerald Hicks Memorial Ground against Carew Reserves, while Hakin continues their season on the road, visiting Monkton Lane to face the Swifts Reserves.
Callum Stannet added two more goals, rounding off the victory. Despite the one-sided scoreline, Milford’s captain Scott Griffiths displayed notable resilience, earning man of the match
honors, while young goalkeeper Charlie Malloy pulled off a series of crucial saves to limit the damage.
The decisive win solidifies Hakin’s position as strong title contenders,
while Milford United, though defeated, showed commendable spirit.
Final Score: Milford United 0-5 Hakin United
PembRoKe
Fixtures 2nd November 2024
Division
Division
Carew
Merlins
Monkton
Division
Clarbeston
Pembroke
Division
Fishguard
Robins II v Tenby II
Division 5
Broad Haven Res v Kilgetty III
Herbrandston Res v Letterston Res
Narberth Reserves v Milford Athletic Res
Solva Reserves v Milford United III
St Clears Res v Hundleton Reserves
Hakin triumph in dominant derby win over Milford United • P56
