The Pembrokeshire Herald 22/12/2023

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Two convicted in crown court following crash which took life of Ella Smith • P3

march calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza • P13

Stranger stalked family claiming children were his • P6

AT LAST: JUSTICE

Welsh Government makes stealth cuts to core budgets • P8

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Two convicted following fatal car crash

Teenage boy hospitalised A TEENAGE boy has been taken to hospital after a crash in Pembroke on Wednesday afternoon, police have confirmed The boy – who was a pedestrian and believed to be in his early teens – was injured in a collision with a car on Pembroke Road close to Ysgol Harri Tudur in Pembroke around 3.30pm.

Dyfed-Powys Police told The Herald: “We were called to the site and that it is believed that the boy has a leg injury which will

require hospital treatment.

“Police were called to a report of a collision between a car and a pedestrian on Pembroke Road at just after 3.30pm.

“The pedestrian – a boy thought to be in his early teens – is believed to have sustained a leg injury and will be taken to hospital.”

Unpaid Child Support cases

IN A HEARING Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday (Dec 20), Emma Price and Jago Clarke, both 21, have been found guilty of causing the death of 21-year-old Ella Smith by dangerous driving.

This tragic event unfolded on the B4341 at Portfield Gate, near Haverfordwest, on the evening of June 13, 2021.

Ella Smith, a passenger in Clarke’s Ford Ka, lost her life in the crash, while Daisy Buck, traveling in a Seat Ibiza, suffered severe injuries. Price, though not directly involved in the collision, was accused of competitive speeding with Clarke, contributing to the fatal outcome.

After extensive deliberation, the jury rejected Clarke’s plea of causing death by careless driving, convicting him of the more severe charges of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving. Price, who denied all charges, was found guilty as charged.

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Editor@herald.email

The court heard harrowing details from that fateful day.

Clarke had invited Smith to Broad Haven beach, intending to drive her car back despite only holding a provisional license and having consumed alcohol.

Luis Heathfield, a witness, recounted Clarke’s reckless boasting about overtaking everyone on the return journey.

The sequence of events leading to the crash was vividly described by witnesses.

Heathfield recalled Price driving aggressively, seemingly to prevent Clarke from overtaking.

Rowan Fair, the Seat Ibiza’s driver, described witnessing the high-speed overtaking maneuver and the ensuing chaos.

Tragically, the aftermath was grim. Buck sustained serious injuries, undergoing surgery and extensive hospital treatment. Clarke himself suffered significant

injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, and had no recollection of the incident.

Technical evidence revealed by the vehicles’ black boxes painted a stark picture. Clarke’s Ford Ka averaged 70mph in the lead-up to the crash, exceeding the 60mph speed limit. At the moment of impact, its speed was 51mph.

Price’s defence, denying any racing or reckless overtaking, was ultimately unpersuasive.

The defendants await sentencing on January 19, currently out on bail and disqualified from driving.

Judge Paul Thomas KC commended the jury for their diligent consideration of this complex and tragic case.

AT CARDIFF Magistrates’ Court on December 7, four men from Pembrokeshire have been mandated to settle thousands in overdue child support, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enforce child maintenance responsibilities.

Due to legal constraints aimed at protecting the identities of the involved children, the names of these men remain undisclosed.

However, the details of their financial obligations have been made public, underscoring the court’s commitment to child welfare.

The first individual, hailing from Lamphey, faces a substantial sum of £3,313.68, covering the period from September 13, 2022, to July 10, 2023.

Meanwhile, a Haverfordwest resident is required to pay

£2,628.23 for obligations stretching from September 28, 2021, to April 27, 2023.

Adding to the list, a Pembroke Dock man has been ordered to remit £3,858.26 for a period extending from January 8, 2019, to September 9, 2023. Lastly, another Haverfordwest man is directed to pay £3,004.36 for dues accruing between August 4, 2019, and July 29, 2023.

These orders, issued following applications by the Child Maintenance Service, affirm the court’s determination that the defendants owed the stated amounts.

The court was satisfied that each individual had received adequate notice and had neglected one or more scheduled payments, with the arrears still pending

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Completion of first Johnston council houses

THE NEW homes are the first residential properties built by the Local Authority in more than 25 years and are an important moment in PCC’s Housing Development Programme.

Built on land of the former Johnston Community Primary School, Old School Lane development consists of 33 new homes that include a mix of one to five bedroom properties.

Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Delivery Councillor Jon Harvey said: “I am delighted that our first new build council houses for many years have been completed with tenants due to take occupation after Christmas.

“I would like to thank the Council’s contractor WB Griffiths for stepping in to complete the development following the previous contractor going into administration and also the local community for their positive engagement throughout.

“This development is the first of a number

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of sites that the Council has in its house building programme over the coming years.”

Offering a range of general allocation, supported living and disabled adapted properties, these homes deliver a new look to social housing in Pembrokeshire.

The properties are built to meet high energy efficiency levels to help keep running costs down and designed for greater future accessibility flexibility, creating a ‘home for life’.

This includes ground floor wet rooms in all properties along with low threshold doorways.

Externally the development features permeable block paving throughout, helping to reduce the strain on the existing drainage system and improve the way surface water can drain away.

Local Member Cllr Aled Thomas said he

was thrilled to see the completion of the first phase.

“Housing issues are felt acutely across Johnston, and the local lettings policy developed in conjunction with Johnston Community Council will see local people being able to live in their home community once again.

“I look forward to seeing the final completion of this development, as well as other developments that are in the pipeline for the village.”

The properties were recently advertised on the Pembrokeshire Choice Homes website, which gave anyone with an open housing application the opportunity to express their interest. Due to the popularity of this development, there has been a record number of bids on these homes.

Working with the local community a Local Lettings Policy has been applied, offering applicants who could demonstrate a local connection to Johnston the opportunity to move to

the new properties.

The first 14 homes will be occupied in January and the final stage of the development of 33 properties will be completed by Spring 2024.

During this time, there will be an opportunity for the local community to visit.

Director of Housing and Social Care Michael Gray said: “I’m delighted to see the Old School Development come to fruition.

“Our Housing Strategy is clear on increasing the supply of affordable housing to meet local needs, whilst at the same time, supporting people to live independently for longer in their own homes.

“This development will increase our supply of general, supported living and adapted properties.”

Please follow the PCC Housing Services Facebook page for further development updates. If you have any queries, please contact the Customer Liaison Team via devCLO@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk or 01437 764551

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Legendary pub landlord Bessie Davies dies

IN THE QUIET and picturesque Cwm Gwaun valley of Pembrokeshire, Wales, the sun rose on a somber day as we mourn the passing of a local legend. Bessie Davies, the beloved pub landlord of the Dyffryn Arms, passed away on Saturday morning (Dec 16) at 8am. She was 94 years old, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, tradition, and the finest beer in Pembrokeshire.

For decades, Bessie had been an integral part of the local community, serving not only her renowned brew but also her heart’s labour to visitors and locals alike. The Dyffryn Arms, nestled amidst the lush woodlands and winding roads of the valley, may appear unassuming from the outside, but inside, it was Bessie’s home and her heart.

Since the tender age of 20, Bessie had been tending to the pub’s patrons from a hatch in her front room, upholding a tradition that has been in her family since 1840. Her commitment to the Dyffryn Arms was unwavering, and her dedication to preserving the traditions of her community was evident in her daily life.

Those who had the privilege of crossing her threshold would

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find a room full of cheer and a warm welcome, no matter the season or the occasion. Even in her eighties, Bessie was a lively presence, lighting the fire and showing genuine interest in the lives of those who entered her establishment. Her sonin-law would dutifully serve drinks from the

hatch, pouring from a jug filled with the exceptional beer that Bessie was known for.

She once quipped, “I’ve got lovely beer here, proper beer. Not these other pubs—those drinks are 60 per cent fizz.”

Bessie’s beer was like amber, not ice-cold like the modern palate has grown accustomed to, but refreshingly unique, with minimal

bubbles. Its flavor was a harmonious blend of sweetness and bitterness that left an indelible mark on the taste buds of all who sampled it.

The Dyffryn Arms, affectionately referred to as “Bessie’s” by the locals, was more than just a pub; it was a hub of tradition and community.

As a testament to the enduring gratitude and admiration of her

C efnogi busnesau yng Nghymru i gyflawn i hyd at eithaf eu gallu Supporting bus inesses in Wales to achieve their full potential 03000 6 03000

busnescymru.llyw.cymru businesswales.gov.wales

patrons, the walls of the pub were adorned with notes from visitors who had come from far and wide to savor Bessie’s hospitality.

Bessie’s warmth extended beyond the walls of the Dyffryn Arms. She was known for her fluency in the Welsh language and delighted in hearing it spoken by her visitors.

Her dedication to preserving the traditions

of her community was evident in her daily life, whether it was making a hearty Cawl for her guests or accepting gifts of fresh produce from those who held her in high esteem.

While the Dyffryn Arms may not have been everyone’s idea of a modern establishment, with its unchanged wallpaper and handwashed glasses, it possessed an enduring charm that few could resist. The fire was always stoked, and tales of old and new were ever-present, making it a place where stories unfolded as naturally as the seasons.

The Dyffryn Arms, was not just a pub; it was a living, breathing testament to the spirit of Welsh hospitality and tradition. Bessie’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of all who were fortunate enough to experience her warmth and the exceptional beer she served.

Bessie Davies’ memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but the legacy of her hospitality and the Dyffryn Arms will continue to welcome those who seek the authentic charm and tradition that defined her

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Stranger stalked family claiming adult children were his AN INDEFINATE stalking protection order has been granted to safeguard a mother and three siblings A family has been subjected to three years of ‘relentless and bizarre’ behaviour from a man who formed the ‘ludicrous’ belief that three siblings were his biological children.

For reasons unknown, Robert Innes, of Whitland, formed the idea in 2020 that a young woman he claims to have seen on a bus was his daughter.

Since then, he has carried out a campaign of stalking, intimidating, and trying to contact her and her family, convinced she and her two siblings were taken from him through the foster care system many years ago.

The 52-year-old has this week appeared in court, where Dyfed-Powys Police successfully applied for an indefinite Stalking Protection Order, safeguarding the family from his behaviour.

The force’s litigation lawyer Sue Clarke said: “This is a very unusual

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case, in which there are four victims – a mother and her three adult children.

“While Innes is a complete stranger to all of them, he formed the notion that the three children are biologically his, and that they were taken from him. He believes their biological mother to be someone else entirely, that he had a relationship with many years ago.

“His behaviour has put the family in fear, and we were determined to explore all options to safeguard them.”

An interim stalking protection order was put in place at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on October 26, however Dyfed-Powys Police asked the court to consider an order with no end, which was granted on Thursday, December 14.

The court heard that Innes approached social services in 2020, asking for help in contacting a young woman he had seen on a bus who he

had a ‘strong feeling’ was his adopted birth child.

In March the following year, he turned up at the family home, claiming to be a private detective looking for someone he said had been adopted 21 years previously.

What followed was a series of stalking behaviour, with Innes not only going to the mother’s home and workplace, but approaching neighbours and colleagues for information about the

family.

Mrs Clarke added: “The eldest daughter has been the main focus of his attention, but all four family members have been stalked and targeted either physically or online.

“He has written letters and turned up with gifts, posed as a social worker – complete with lanyard – when approaching a neighbour for information about the family, and followed the eldest daughter relentlessly, even turning up behind

her in a cinema queue.

“A neighbour also reported being visited by three young men ‘on behalf of Bob’ which left her feeling scared and intimidated.”

A statement from the mother explained the fear Innes has brought to her family.

“He seems very resourceful and imaginative,” she said.

“He is a big man and although so far has not posed a physical threat, I worry that the more frustrated his attempts

at contacting are, the more chance he may change his behaviour and attitude.

“He knows where my son lives, where I live and work, and he may get lucky extracting contact details for my daughters.”

In granting the indefinite stalking protection order, District Judge Layton referred to the “ludicrous claim that he is the father of these children” and described his interest in the eldest sibling as “unhealthy”.

Tenby swindler Darryl Evans facing lengthy jail sentence

62-YEAR-OLD Darryl Evans from Green Court Crescent, Tenby, has been labelled “the most thoroughly dishonest man” by Judge Paul Thomas KC in a hearing at Swansea Crown Court this week.

Following an intense three-week trial, Evans

is now facing a potential lengthy imprisonment after being found guilty of 26 counts of fraud and one of theft.

These fraudulent activities, carried out in Pembrokeshire, breached the Fraud Act 2006. The jury, after approximately two hours and 45

minutes of deliberation, unanimously found Evans guilty on all charges.

Judge Thomas has scheduled the sentencing for Friday, 5 January, warning Evans of an impending “very substantial prison sentence, measuring in many years.”

Evans, who has been remanded in custody until his sentencing date, listened as Judge Thomas commended the police for their thorough investigation and acknowledged the efforts of both the prosecution, led by Robin Rouch, and the defence, represented

by Jim Davis.

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Pembrokeshire solar farm could power 2,500 homes

AN APPLICATION for a south Pembrokeshire solar farm, which could generate enough power for 2,500 homes, has been submitted to county planners.

The plans for a ninemegawatt solar farm at West Farm, Cosheston, near Pembroke Dock have been made by James Wallwork of One Plant Developments Limited on land adjoining an existing solar farm.

A supporting statement, through agent Mango Planning & Development

Bruce Sinclair

Local Democracy Reporter

Ltd, says the works, together with associated infrastructure, will occupy three fields, the site extending to 9.9 hectares, and will operate for a 40year period if granted.

The arrays will be connected by underground cabling to an inverter which is required to convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the panels, into alternating current (AC) as required to feed into the grid.

In July 2022 preapplication advice was secured from the council that confirmed in-principle support for the proposed use, subject to addressing site specific issues, notably landscape and visual impact, the statement says.

It adds: “The 2021 Welsh Government Energy Generation in Wales report highlighted that Welsh solar PV capacity stood at 1,134 MW, with 119 MW of this in Pembrokeshire.

“The deployment of solar PV has however

seen very limited growth since the closure of the Feed-in Tariff and the Renewables Obligation.

“Pembrokeshire is the largest user of energy in Wales accounting for 14 per cent of the total energy use in Wales, and indeed is the only area in Wales that has seen an increase in local electricity usage, as industry moves away from petroleum-based fuels.

“The proposed development is a key technology in the transition of the Welsh energy system to a resilient, low

carbon, and independent energy system powered by renewables.”

It adds: “The proposed development would contribute circa 9,337,000 KWh of renewable electricity to the local area, which will typically produce enough green electricity a year to power about 2,500 homes.

“The proposed development is for a temporary 40-year timescale and will be fully reinstated at the end of it operational life. There will be no loss of agricultural land.”

It concludes: “The proposal will make a positive contribution to the policy objectives of Welsh Government to deliver a resilient, low carbon, and independent energy system and will support Pembrokeshire Council’s objectives to deliver the next generation of clean, green engineering jobs focussed upon the Milford Haven Waterway and to become the green energy capital of the UK.” The application will be considered by planners at a later date.

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Welsh Government makes stealth cuts to core budgets THE WELSH GOVERNMENT’s Budget arrived not with a bang but a whimper on Wednesday, December 19.

That’s largely because the Welsh Government released its biggest announcement of the year when the Welsh Parliament is in recess.

The Welsh Government slashed business rates relief for thousands of Welsh businesses, cut local government budgets, laid waste the rural affairs budget, reduced funding for apprenticeships, and broke a firm manifesto commitment to increase the number of PCSOs in Wales by cutting their funding by a third.

The Welsh Government ploughed more money into the Welsh NHS. However, the Budget did nothing to address the NHS’s chronic problems or improve frontline services. In some cases, it actively kicked those issues into the long grass.

Until NHS structures are overhauled and made fit for purpose, Finance Minister Rebecca Evans may as well have thrown

Rebecca Evans: Wales’s Finance Minister juggles figures to disguise huge cuts Jon Coles

jon.coles@herald.email

millions into the tide.

THE BOTTOM LINE There is no escaping

this Budget highlights the limits of the Welsh Government’s autonomy and ability to manage Welsh public finances.

The Welsh Government has superficially got more money from Westminister

than ever before. In real terms, the amount of funding - thanks to the effects of inflation - has fallen.

The Welsh Government has less money than forecast for next year’s spending. That does not get it off the hook for its decisions. Even with less funding, budget-setting reflects political priorities.

Calling cuts “protecting core services” is a pathetic attempt at pulling the wool over people’s eyes.

WELSH GOVERNMENT DUCKS QUESTIONS IN SENEDD Members of the Senedd will not get to question Welsh Government ministers about what’s in its Budget until January 9, 2024.

By then, Welsh ministers calculate, the worst of the fuss will be over, and the political narrative will have moved on. At least, that is, as far as the public is concerned.

As acts of political cowardice go, ducking immediate scrutiny of your annual financial plan takes some beating. It allows Welsh Government ministers to try to frame the narrative to dig themselves out of the uproar the Budget has already caused. However, the Welsh Government could still face a rough ride if Plaid Cymru develops

a spine and if the Welsh Conservatives can be persuaded to stop banging on about 20mph speed limits.

Those are big ifs.

Last week, Heledd Fychan from Plaid Cymru asked the government’s business manager, Lesley Griffiths MS, to recall the Welsh Parliament to debate the Budget proposals.

Ms Griffiths, who, like the rest of the Cabinet, regards the Senedd as a rubber stamp at best, refused the request. She said she didn’t regard it as a necessity. The following day, Rebecca Evans told Ms Fychan’s colleague, Peredur Griffiths, the Senedd would have plenty of chances to “review the Budget”.

Whether this is the real Budget or something intended to save the bad news for the summer recess - like last year’s turned out to be - remains open.

RURAL AFFAIRS Rural Affairs is not a Labour priority and never has been.

While the Budget maintains the Basic Payment Scheme at the same level as the current financial year, the standstill represents a huge real-terms cut. The Rural Affairs budget also bears the largest cut in

departmental spending, around 13%.

The Welsh Government’s wack-adoodle plans for the future of Welsh agriculture and Wales’s rural communities that depend on it are covered in detail in this week’s Farming Section.

Although Wales’s farming unions expected the worst, they’ve been taken aback by the savagery of the Welsh Government’s approach to the Rural Affairs budget.

FUW President Ian Rickman said: “The cuts made to Wales’ rural affairs funding in the Welsh Government’s draft budget for 2024-25 are a serious cause for concern, not least because replacement EU CAP funding alone should now equal around £440 million when considering inflation.

“At a time when Welsh farmers face huge uncertainty around future farm support and the actions they will be required to undertake in order to receive such support, it’s of paramount importance that the Welsh Government recognises the sustainable food our farmers produce and the contributions they make to the environment and wider rural economy when allocating funds to the rural affairs portfolio.”

Aled Roberts, President of NFU Cymru, said his union “fully recognises the inflationary challenges the Welsh Government faces”.

He continued: “We are pleased that the Budget prioritises the delivery of funding to farmers on the ground via the BPS. However, such a large cut to the overall Rural Affairs budget is concerning. It has implications for the delivery of programmes within the Minister’s portfolio.

“We urgently seek more government details about how these cuts will impact the sector.”

LOCAL GOVERNMENT Finance Minister Rebecca Evans claims: “We’ve re-shaped our spending plans to protect the core, frontline public services provided by local authorities like schools and social care.

“I appreciate the pressures local government is facing and

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recognise that demand for services, along with the recent very high rates of inflation, means the local government will still need to make difficult decisions on services, efficiencies, and Council tax in setting their budgets.”

In English, that’s service reductions, job cuts, and Council Tax increases.

As local authorities must do more with less, the public must pay more for less.

That 3.1% rise is way below the headline rate of inflation (the Consumer Price Index), massively less than inflationary pressures on wages and energy bills, and pitifully less than the rising cost of building and maintenance.

The Welsh Government has rolled grants and other elements of expenditure into councils’ budgets. It’s like stirring the icing on a cake into the mix and declaring it’s sultanas.

Councillor Mark Pritchard, WLGA Independent Group Leader, said: “For a long time, councils have warned of the enormous pressures they face after so many years of reduced funding.

“Unfortunately, the settlement does not provide enough funding to meet the severe cost and demand pressures, which will present serious challenges for setting balanced budgets next year.

“Although there appears to be a 3.1% boost in core funding, significant cuts to grants - with no extra money to cover the teachers’ pay increase mean that councils will receive far less than the headline figure.

“Dipping into ‘rainy day’ council reserves is not a solution to plug evergrowing gaps which will reappear year after year.”

several ways.

Coleg Cymraeg Genedlaethol and the National Centre for Learning Welsh lose £3.5m of “reprioritised” funding. It will also roll over part of the funding for the Cymraeg 2050 project into unprotected local authority budgets (a disguised cut). The provision of free Welsh language courses for adult learners will be scaled back.

A more wide-reaching row is brewing over the decision to reduce apprenticeship funding.

The Apprenticeship Levy raises around £190m annually for the Welsh Government. As recently as March, leadership contender Vaughan Gething promised an extra £36m of funding.

E m p l o y e r s ’ representatives, including the FSB and CBI, have signed an open letter to First Minister Mark Drakeford outlining their deep concerns about the proposed 24.2% cuts – the equivalent of £35 million – to apprenticeships for 2024-25.

They want to know why all the money they pay to the apprenticeship levy is not invested in apprentices, with a claimed £80m+ spent elsewhere.

The cuts are on top of the £17.5m cut from apprenticeship funding Labour announced in October.

Although not in the Budget, the Welsh Government is also considering raising University tuition fees.

Teaching unions NEU and UCU expressed their concern in a joint statement.

UCU Cymru Wales Official Gareth Lloyd said: “The proposed apprenticeship cuts need to be reversed. There needs to be meaningful consultation with colleges, universities, staff and unions to secure financial sustainability across the education sector.

“Having welcomed the Education Minister’s

EDUCATION The Welsh Government has cut funding for Welsh language education in

commitment to make Wales a ‘second chance nation’, UCU Cymru would consider it a tragedy if that pledge were now abandoned at the first sign of stormy weather.”

Dan Maney, NEU’s Senior Wales Officer, added: We know budgets are tight because of decisions in Westminster, but the plans for post-16 education appear grim and will disappoint everyone who works so hard in their local areas to support adults with learning opportunities.”

BUSINESS Ben Francis, Wales Policy Chair at FSB, said: “The Welsh Government’s decision not to implement the same level of business rates support as similar businesses in England is a significant blow.

“Some businesses undoubtedly face difficult choices in the coming months.

“FSB made a case for a freeze in the business rates multiplier and the extension of the 75% rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses.

“The realities facing our high streets are stark.

“More than 1 in 6 shops in Wales are vacant, and retail sales in October fell by 2.7% compared to October 2022.

“With retail analysts suggesting the next quarter could be even tougher and 83.5% of our members reporting increasing costs, a rate bill hike in April will place significant additional pressure on these businesses.

“Economic recovery – and prosperity to support our public services - will only come on the back of the health of the small business economy and a new plan for growing the economy.

“Any prospective new First Minister must put this front and centre of the task facing their Welsh Government agenda”.

Accused of Tenby attack A MAN from Croydon has been accused of attacking and strangling a woman at a luxury holiday let in Tenby.

Nathan Smith, 41, of Salcot Crescent, appeared at Llanelli

Magistrates’ Court on December 18 facing two charges.

Smith was alleged to have assaulted a woman and strangled her at the Grade II listed Penally Manor on December 17.

No pleas were

entered to charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation, and the case was sent to Swansea Crown Court.

Smith was remanded into custody, until the next hearing, on January 19.

County clobbered by budget LABOUR’s decisions to raise business taxes, slash local government expenditure, and reduce the rural budget will hit Pembrokeshire hard.

The most visible immediate blow is to Pembrokeshire County Council and the prospect of a larger increase in Council Tax. COUNCIL CUTS BITE DEEP The Welsh Government announced an average 3.1% increase in local government funding from last year.

Pembrokeshire’s increase will be 2.6%.

There’s no escaping that’s a massive and unfunded real-term budget cut. Falling consumer inflation only reflects that prices are rising more slowly. Councils must absorb far more than just household CPI increases.

The cost of delivering services has rocketed, as have those for maintaining existing buildings and building new ones (especially new council houses).

The Welsh Government also failed to pass on funding for teachers’ pay and pensions it got from Westminster.

That puts all the pressure on already stretched Council finances.

The Council must make cuts because it is impossible to get the rise needed to protect services past its members. The votes aren’t there.

In addition, Pembrokeshire’s tax-averse public would rather see services crumble than pay an extra penny more towards them.

Cutting cloth to meet your means presupposes that cloth exists. Or that you can afford scissors.

The Cabinet Member for Finance, Cllr Alec Cormack, told us: “The 2.5% increase in Welsh Government funding for Pembrokeshire, significantly under inflation, presents us with a real challenge in balancing our budget on March 7 next year.”

If they were not already biting, cuts to services are about to be felt keenly by everyone in Pembrokeshire.

LOCAL BUSINESSES HAMMERED Pembrokeshire is a county of small businesses.

They mostly operate in the service, retail, and hospitality sectors.

The Labour budget cuts business rates relief for businesses that already face

difficult trading conditions.

Funding for economic development, already low in Wales, will be cut further, making new projects more difficult to fund.

That cut also compounds factors that will hit the local economy, including a large decline in the tourism market, second-rate transport infrastructure, and Welsh government policies that will harm the rental homes businesses underpinning the local tourism offer.

Local MS Paul Davies, the Shadow Economy Minister, told The Herald: “There’s no doubt that the Welsh Government’s budget will have a huge impact on our communities.

“Everything from farming to schools is taking a hit – and the decision to reduce business rate relief from 75% to 40% will be a blow for pubs, shops and restaurants across the country.

“Ministers don’t have an infinite budget, but politics is a language of priorities.

Rather than pursuing costly policies like Senedd reform, the Welsh Government could – and should be - prioritising our schools and investing in skills instead.

“Of course, this is just a draft budget and there’s still time for Ministers to rethink and re-prioritise. I will do what I can to persuade Ministers to reflect on the impact that this budget will have in communities across Wales and encourage them to rethink their mindset, before it’s too late.”

FARMERS FACE HUGE CUTS The headline cut to farming budgets masks even starker detail.

TheWelsh Government has pulled the rug out from organic farmers.

The failure to provide any capital for investment in updating existing farm facilities to meet the demands of Welsh Government legislation will force farmers

off the land.

Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MS Sam Kurtz, the shadow Rural Affairs Minister, said: “The Cardiff-based Welsh Government’s finger-pointing and shirking of responsibility is wearing thin with the people of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

“I fought hard to maintain the Basic Payment Scheme for our farmers. Although I’m pleased that this has happened, the wider cuts to the Rural Affairs budget will damage our communities here in West Wales.

“For every pound invested through the BPS, £9 is returned. Over £2 billion is reinvested into the Welsh economy through directly supporting our farmers.

“Question marks remain over funding for the Habitat Wales Scheme and organic farming.

“The Habitat Wales Scheme is due to commence on January 1. I expect the Minister to urgently clarify its budget so that participating farmers know what financial support is available.

“I also encourage the Minister to provide further clarity on funding support for farmers to ensure compliance with the additional NVZs requirements, which take effect in 2024.

“The wider cuts to the Rural Affairs budget will harm our rural communities, so the final budget mustn’t be reduced by the damaging in-year cuts which we have seen the Welsh Government undertake this year.”

Therein lies a question.

Is the draft budget real, or is Labour hiding more cuts to announce next summer, hoping to avoid scrutiny before a UK General Election?

Another point worth considering: if the Welsh Government filled every nursing and clinical vacancy in the Welsh NHS, where would the money come to pay for them? It’s as though it’s banking on failure.

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Welsh budget offers nothing but pain

The Money-go-Round: Accountability gap undermines devolution ANYONE looking for some early Christmas cheer would have done well to keep their attention far away from the Welsh Government’s planned Budget for the next financial year published this week, writes Jonathan Edwards MP. Just to be totally

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straight, the financial realities facing the Welsh Government would be the same for any party due to how it’s funded.

Despite some minor fiscal concessions gained from Westminster, it is a spending body.

This means things

are relatively rosy when settlements rise.

However, once those settlements fall in real terms, trouble lies ahead.

That is especially problematic when the major element of expenditure, health, is out of control. It is why some of us argue for far greater fiscal responsibility for the Welsh Government

and Senedd. This would give them a do-or-die stake in developing the Welsh economy to broaden the tax base to fund our public services.

As the Welsh Government says repeatedly, it supposedly has nothing to do with decision-making in the Welsh NHS, and Welsh health ministers deny responsibility for its problems and failings.

As a result, some would argue it may as well be run from Westminster.

Unless the Welsh Government takes responsibility and finds a way to reconfigure the NHS in Wales to bring spending within Budget, we will find ourselves in a position within a generation when the only meaningful function of the Welsh Government and Senedd will be to pass an annual cheque to the Health Boards, whilst all other services are run with a token payment and left to their own devices.

The Cooperation Agreement parties cannot play the Scottish Government card and blame Westminster alone.

Labour accepts the current devolution model and recently didn’t oppose Tory tax and spending plans. Plaid Cymru meekly calls for responsibility over major job creation levers in Wales.

However, they also accept Tory Westminster spending and tax plans.

On the other hand, the SNP rejected the current devolution model completely and voted, like I did, against the Tories in Westminster.

The obvious reality is that you can’t blame the Tories in Westminster if you don’t or won’t vote against them. Neither can you complain of being starved of funding if you accept the tax and spending plans of the Westminster Government.

Before I highlight some of the Budget content, it was depressing to see the Welsh Budget

announced whilst the Senedd is in Recess.

The Scottish Budget, on the other hand, despite similarly difficult content and context, was made to the Scottish Parliament.

A former Senedd Member who knows far more than me about the workings of Cardiff Bay, whom I contacted in private to express my outrage, told me there was nothing uncommon in the Welsh Government publishing Budgets when the Senedd isn’t sitting.

Therefore, I have softened my views out of respect for him.

I would say that on this occasion, due to the scale of the cuts announced, there must be prompt political scrutiny. Senedd Members will not get to raise detailed questions about the Budget in Plenary until January 9! In my eyes, the decision to publish the Budget when the Senedd wasn’t sitting completely devalues the institution and, therefore, Welsh democracy.

If Senedd Members cannot speak up for the people they represent on probably the Welsh Government’s most important annual Statement, and perhaps its most important ever Budget, some may argue what’s the point of them?

Perhaps this deceitful tactic by the Welsh Government aimed to move commentary away from the content of their Budget to the above.

If so, I can fully understand their motives.

Swingeing cuts to all policy areas, from rural payments, dentistry, social care, sport, community policing, business support, and further education. In a sneaky act, some of our teachers’ pension costs were passed onto already struggling local authorities to cover, leading to them wielding the axe on services.

One jurnalist described the situation to me as “a bloodbath”, and I have started to receive messages from professionals working

across different sectors in pure despair.

This creates significant political problems for both the Cooperation Agreement parties in Wales.

When presiding over such massive budget cuts to core public services, Labour won’t be able to portray a change narrative in the forthcoming General Election. I just don’t think blaming Westminster will work, especially as the fiscal plans of Labour in London mirror the Tories’.

For Plaid, they will choose between abstaining or voting against it. Abstaining may keep the Cooperation Agreement alive; however, as Aneurin Bevan once said, ‘We know what happens to people who stay in the middle of the road; they get run over’.

The political consequences in the General Election will be dire.

If they vote against, Mark Drakeford’s successor as First Minister will have the perfect opportunity to throw Plaid Cymru back into Senedd irrelevance by ending the Cooperation Agreement together with ditching Senedd enlargement - which is Plaid’s only nation-building signature policy achieved after propping up Labour for so many years.

Labour will claim all other policies achieved to date as their own.

Even voting against the Budget, I strongly suspect, won’t save them from complicity in the eyes of the electorate.

The fact is that voters don’t like junior coalition parties.

Next year, we will face a General Election where all the mainstream establishment parties are deeply unpopular.

It could be the perfect terrain for an insurgency that shakes the political establishment to its core. I look forward to playing my part in it in Carmarthenshire.

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Controversial figure continues incendiary rhetoric on socials DAN MORGAN, a far-right activist with a notorious reputation, is continuing to stir controversy under a new name, Dan Vow, following his suspended prison sentence for involvement in a largescale insurance fraud.

This name change appears to be a nod to his Swansea-based group, Voice of Wales, co-founded with Stan Robinson, another extremist figure.

Earlier this year, Swansea Crown Court was the stage for a shocking revelation. A fraudulent call centre, under the guise of dealing with miss sold Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) policies, duped unsuspecting victims – many elderly and vulnerable – out of substantial sums.

Victims were tricked into handing over credit card details, thinking they were due for PPI

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refunds, with some paying up to £550 each.

Sixteen individuals, from top-level directors to call centre staff, were convicted for this orchestrated deceit, described by the

judge as a “deliberate, planned fraud.” Morgan received a six-month jail sentence, suspended for 12 months.

In 2021, YouTube took down two channels operated by Morgan and Robinson due to their racist content, drawing criticism from

Welsh politicians and race equality groups. The channels featured interviews with controversial figures, including members of The Proud Boys, an American far-right group banned in Canada, and Tommy Robinson of the English Defence

League.

Despite these setbacks, Morgan, now using the name Dan Vow, and Robinson, the recent Ukip candidate for Llanelli, remain undeterred. They have recently interviewed Godfrey Bloom, a former Ukip MEP known for his contentious statements.

Bloom, during his tenure in the European Parliament, garnered infamy for his sexist and offensive remarks, including derogatory comments about women and various ethnic groups.

In their latest YouTube video, Bloom shares his controversial views on migrant boats, enforcement of speed limits in Wales, and various international issues. His comments, ranging from antiSemitic to Islamophobic, were met with apparent approval from Morgan/ Vow and Robinson, further highlighting their

alignment with such divisive rhetoric.

This video, along with Morgan’s attempt to rebrand himself, has been criticized by anti-fascist groups.

Searchlight magazine, in particular, has labeled Morgan’s name change as a “rather pathetic attempt to polish up [Ukip’s] image following his criminal conviction.”

The persistence of such figures in using social media platforms to disseminate their controversial views raises significant questions about the ongoing challenges of monitoring and regulating online hate speech.

As these individuals continue to find ways to spread their message, the balance between freedom of expression and the need to prevent the spread of harmful ideologies remains a complex and evolving issue.

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Haverfordwest march calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza AROUND 60 demonstrators gathered in Haverfordwest on Saturday, echoing a nationwide call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and challenging the UK Government’s support for Israel.

Participants marched from Castle Square to MP Stephen Crabb’s office, brandishing placards and urging the government to reevaluate its position.

Local organisations, Stop The War Pembrokeshire and Solidarity with Palestine Pembrokeshire, spearheaded the demonstration.

“The urgency to amplify opposition against Israel’s actions in Gaza is growing daily,” they stated.

There was a significant turnout, reflecting a deep community concern. “The UK’s involvement through military aid and arms sales to Israel makes our government complicit,” added protestors.

Demonstrators

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emphasized the dire situation in Gaza, citing shortages of medical supplies, food, electricity, and water due to the ongoing conflict.

Adam Johannes,

spokesperson for the Stop the War Coalition in Wales, condemned Israel’s actions as violations of international law. “We stand for the Palestinians’ right to live freely, without military occupation or forced exile,” he said.

A YouGov poll indicates that 76% of the public supports an immediate ceasefire, contrasting the stance of most MPs. “Welsh politics is at a crossroads, with only five of Wales’ 40 MPs advocating for an immediate ceasefire,”

Johannes noted.

The march not only represented a call for policy change but also a plea for humanitarian awareness.

Future events and advocacy efforts were announced, inviting the community to engage further in this

pressing issue.

As the demonstrators dispersed, the echo of their call for peace and justice lingered, reflecting a growing global concern and a local community’s commitment to international solidarity.

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Suspended sentence and driving ban Joyce visits Pembrokeshire Care Farm

IN A STRIKING case of dangerous driving, 18-year-old Lewis Griffiths from Pembroke has been handed a suspended prison sentence and a twoyear driving ban by the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

Griffiths, a resident of Lloyd George Lane, was caught on a dashcam executing a perilous overtaking maneuver on Dredgeman Hill in Haverfordwest on June 19, endangering himself and others on the road.

The court was presented with dashcam footage from one of the drivers overtaken by Griffiths. This footage proved crucial, as District Judge Mark Layton

noted, “the video speaks for the facts of the case.” The alarming scene captured shows Griffiths overtaking vehicles by veering into the path of oncoming traffic, an act that elicited audible reactions from passengers in the car being overtaken.

Judge Layton, addressing the court, highlighted the severity of Griffiths’ actions, stating, “You crossed a double white line and came very close to colliding with an oncoming vehicle.” He further emphasised the danger posed by such reckless driving, noting it “put other road users at risk of death or serious injury.”

Griffiths pleaded guilty to the charge of dangerous driving. His defense, led

by Tom Lloyd, painted

a picture of remorse and consequences.

Lloyd pointed out that Griffiths, previously of clean character, deeply regrets his actions. The repercussions of his recklessness extended beyond the courtroom, as Griffiths lost his job due to the proceedings but has since found new employment.

IGriffiths was sentenced to an 18-week jail term, suspended for 12 months. Additionally, he is required to complete 150 hours of unpaid work. His driving licence has been revoked for two years, after which he must pass an extended driving retest to regain his driving privileges.

SENEDD Member Joyce Watson this week (18 Dec) visited a care farm in north Pembrokeshire to speak with residents, staff and volunteers about its exciting plans for the future.

Clynfyw Care Farm supports adults with learning disabilities and those in recovery from mental unwellness.

Manager Jim Bowen’s family have farmed the land since the 1750s, but the plan is to now sell it to the community through a share offer – to protect its long-term future and

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to help battle climate change.

Speaking afterwards, the Labour Mid and West Wales MS said: “It was wonderful to visit the farm again. The work that Jim and the team do to support vulnerable and marginalised people is fantastic – and the opportunities the farm affords are exceptional.

“Their hope is that community investors will help secure the farm’s future as a care farm

and local hub with an environmental emphasis.

It is seeking £550,000, with about 10 percent raised so far.”

Clynfyw Community Benefit Society (CBS) has been set up to run the community share offer, starting with the purchase of four cottages, converted stone farm buildings and an adjoining nine acres of land. Investors will get a return of up to 4 percent, with profits going to local environmental projects.

The offer is open until Welsh New Year, January 13. To learn more, visit: https://www.clynfyw.co.uk/

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Christmas and New Year waste and recycling THERE will be some Tom Sinclair changes to waste and Editor@herald.email recycling collections over Christmas on your first collection and New Year in day after Christmas.

Pembrokeshire.

There are no changes There will be no to what is scheduled for waste and recycling collection. Please make collections on Christmas sure your containers Day (Monday 25th are out for collection by December), Boxing 6.30am.

Day (Tuesday 26th Please check your December) or New online calendars or sign Year’s Day (1st January). up to the notification Collections due on service via My Account Monday 25th December to see which items are will take place two days collected each week. earlier on Saturday 23rd Collections will return December to normal from Tuesday Collections due on 2nd January 2024.

Tuesday 26th December For more details will take place two days of Council services earlier on Sunday 24th over the Christmas December period, including Collections due on more information on Monday 1st January what can be recycled, will take place two days opening hours of the earlier on Saturday 30th contact centre and December Waste and Recycling Don’t forget you Centres, see: https:// can place an additional w w w. p e m b r o k e s h i r e . bag of residual ‘nong o v. u k / c h r i s t m a s - i n recyclable’ household pembrokeshire waste (grey/black bag)

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GP surgery extra Claim investment will take a century Laugharne engagement event announced to recover was ‘headline grabbing’

A CLAIM by the leader of Pembrokeshire’s Tory group that council investment in the Western Quayside redevelopment will take well over a century to recover, has been labelled a headline-grabbing opportunity by the deputy leader.

The food market development on the site of Haverfordwest’s old Ocky White’s department store is expected to be opened next summer.

The three-storey riverside building, a key part of Pembrokeshire County Council’s regeneration of the county town, hit the headlines last year with the unexpected discovery of hundreds of human remains.

In a submitted question, heard at the December 14 full council meeting, Tory group leader and Martletwy councillor Di Clements said: “EJ Hales recently published that it anticipated an annual return of approximately £90,000 a year from renting out the entire

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floor space in the Western Quayside project.

“The cabinet’s most recent report has an approved budget for this project of £11.35 million.

“This means that without any interest, administration or repair costs, the project will take at least 126 years to recover the cost of the project.

“Therefore, my question to the Cabinet member for Place and the Region [Cllr Paul Miller] is, what is the estimated number of years that he forecasts it will take PCC to recoup its financial investment in the Western Quayside (Ocky White) project, inclusive of loan interest, admin fees, building repairs that are not covered in the tenancy agreements and any other costs associated with the upkeep of the building?”

Responding, Cllr Miller – who also serves as deputy leader – referenced the 126 years claim: “There’s a lot wrong with this

question, it’s very much designed to secure the Tory group a headline, rather than actually add any value to the debate.”

He told members the council’s contribution would be nearer £7m than £11.35m, adding that Cllr Clements’ “flat cash income” projections didn’t work, with revenue changing over the period “to our advantage”.

He said the scheme was “never a commercial investment but a regeneration investment,” with private investors unlikely to ever regenerate the area on their own, leaving it “rotting”.

Cllr Miller said both the council and Welsh government saw the need for investment; the area “transformed,” with a private investor now in the process of “a multimillion fit-out,” which would create for than 50 jobs.

“The opposition like to complain loudly about the capital investment in our communities across Pembrokeshire, but my question is what exactly do they offer as an

alternative?

“I’ve said before that the alternative – it seems to me – is just abandon our town centres and look the other way; that’s what the previous administration did in Haverfordwest, in Pembroke, in Fishguard, and it’s not a policy that I or any of my colleagues are willing to cotinue with.”

In her supplementary question, Cllr Clements said that council costs for every £1m borrowed for the project amounted to £70,000 against the backdrop of £90,000 a year in rents, adding: “I’ll leave you to do the maths on that.

“It will ost the taxpayer a lot of money; do you think this is fair for those that pay council tax?”

Cllr Miller conceded there was a cost to the public purse, accepted “at the outset,” but said the upside was the Riverside development occupied and businesses investing in the county.

“The benefits aren’t just pounds and pence on the council’s balance sheet,” he added.

HYWEL DDA University Health Board is organising another public drop-in event in Laugharne, to give patients a further opportunity to discuss the application from the Coach and Horses GP Surgery in St. Clears, to close their Laugharne Branch Surgery.

This public engagement event will take place from 3.00pm to 6.00pm on Tuesday, February 6 2024 at Laugharne Memorial Hall.

Hywel Dda University Health Board (HDdUHB) received the application from the Coach and Horses GP Surgery in St. Clears, to close their Laugharne Branch Surgery in Carmarthenshire earlier this year.

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Director of Primary Care Jill Paterson said: “In response to the number of patients who have expressed a wish to participate in the public engagement event but did not feel that they were able to raise all of their concerns at the session in November 2023 a further engagement event will be held for those people who have not had the opportunity to share their views so far.

“What we have heard from patients and stakeholders

in the engagement programme to date will be compiled with the views from a second, and final event to be held on Tuesday, 6 February 2024. This means that a recommendation on the way forward will not be considered by the Health Board until March 2024.”

The main reasons for the application to close the Laugharne branch surgery are: • T h e Practice has faced major problems in sustaining its core workforce and has been unable to provide GP sessions at the Laugharne Branch Surgery since April 2020. In order to protect the provision of general medical services, the GP Partners of the Coach and Horses Surgery in St.Clears have made the difficult decision to apply to close the Laugharne Branch Surgery.

This will allow them to centralise their staff and services, which will in turn support the future sustainability of the GP Practice.

• There are challenges across the UK in the recruitment and retention of general medical practitioners (GPs).

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Bookings open for real Christmas tree collections PEMBROKESHIRE residents are once again able to book a kerbside collection of their real Christmas tree over the festive period, the council has confirmed this week.

For a charge of £5 per tree, real Christmas trees will be collected from residents’ homes on a designated day before being sent to a Pembrokeshire facility for shredding and composting.

The fee has been introduced as part of a range of saving options approved by Council to support a balanced budget and ensure statutory elements of the service can continue in light of the unprecedented financial situation that the Council finds itself in.

The collection service

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will commence from Monday 8th January 2024 and householders wishing to have a collection can arrange one through your My Account or by calling the Council contact centre on 01437 764551.

Requests for collections will be available through the contact centre until the 5th January and via My Account until 7th January.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, Councillor Rhys Sinnett, said: “We have been able to maintain the collection service for a small fee, however households can still take their Christmas trees to any of our Waste and Recycling Centres free of charge, bookings

can be made via the PCC website, My Account or through the contact centre.

“These collections also contribute towards Pembrokeshire’s recycling performance and we are delighted to have recently been named one only five Authorities in Wales to have already met the Welsh Government’s recycling target of over 70%.”

For details of Council services over the Christmas period, including opening hours of the contact centre and Waste and Recycling Centres, including additional openings and kerbside waste and recycling collections, see: https:// w w w. p e m b r o k e s h i r e . g o v. u k / c h r i s t m a s - i n pembrokeshire

Brand news trains in service in county for the first time in three decades

THE FIRST Class 197 locomotives have made their way to Pembrokeshire this week (Dec 18) as part of regular train services to Milford Haven and Fishguard.

TfW have spent £800 million on new trains throughout their network and the Class 197 will be the first of the brand-new stock to enter service in North Wales before the end of this year.

Providing an increase in capacity, reduced emissions and enhanced comfort onboard, these trains will allow TfW to run faster and more frequent services to key routes including to destinations such as Holyhead, Fishguard and Liverpool.

Offering leather seats, modern air conditioning systems, wider doors and customer information screens, the new trains will transform the customer experience.

They’ve also been fitted with electronic charging points and disability features for those with limited mobility.

The Deputy Minister for Climate Change with responsibility for

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Transport, Lee Waters said: “I am pleased to welcome the new Class 197 trains to the rail network. These new vehicles represent a real transformational improvement on the trains that they will be replacing, providing comfortable and frequent services, encouraging people to leave their cars

behind and move onto a more sustainable form of transport.”

Alexia Course, TfW’s Director of Transport Operations, said: “At Transport for Wales we’re continually moving forward with our transformational plans to improve public transport for the people of Wales and the borders.

“The Class 197s on show at Chester railway station today will be an important part of

the transformation of the Wales and Borders network, and when they enter service, they will enable us to run more services and carry more customers in comfort.

“The construction of our new trains has been four years in the making, and customers and colleagues are incredibly excited to welcome passengers onto them from later this year.

“It’s also important to recognise that these

trains have been made in Wales at the CAF factory in Newport and the building of them has provided jobs and supported the local economy”.

Richard Garner, UK Director CAF said: “CAF is thrilled that the first of our Class 197 trains for the Wales and Borders network has been officially launched.

“We are immensely proud of our key role in delivering Transport

for Wales’ vision to transform rail travel for passengers.

“The manufacture of our trains is taking place at our state-of-theart facility in Newport, South Wales. We see ourselves as a local manufacturer, supporting highly skilled jobs and bringing employment opportunities to the local area whilst focusing on sustainability issues and addressing the needs of the Welsh economy.

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National Park planners refuse 40-pitch campsite at Parke Farm A SCHEME for a 40-pitch campsite on ‘best’ south Pembrokeshire agricultural land was refused despite pleas for approval, or at least a site visit.

Applicant Charles Goldsworthy sought – in an application submitted through agent Steve Hole Architects – permission for 40 pitches including associated infrastructure at Parke Farm campsite, just outside the hamlet of Merrion, near Pembroke.

Concerns were raised by Stackpole & Castlemartin Community Council in relation to safety when exiting the caravan site onto the main road.

The application was recommended for refusal at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire Coast National

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Park’s Development Management Committee; an officer report for members stating the application was contrary to national planning

policy as it seeks to change the use of Best and Most Versatile (BMV) Agricultural Land into a caravan and camping site.

“Such land should only be developed if there is an overriding

need for the scheme and either previously developed land or land in lower agricultural grades are unavailable,” and such land “should be conserved as a finite resource for the future with considerable weight

given to protecting it from development,” the report said.

At the December meeting, Councillor Reg Owens made failed attempts for either a site visit or approval of the application.

He said the 10-acre site, while occupying BMV land, was too small to be a viable farm in its own right, and a caravan park wouldn’t prevent future agricultural usage.

“I’m a bit reluctant to support a blanket refusal; this site, I personally would like to go out and have a look.”

Cllr Owens’ site visit call saw members tie on six votes for and six against, committee chair Madeline Havard casting a second vote against it on the basis members had sufficient information, and the scheme went

against policy.

Cllr Owens then made a call for the scheme to be approved: “We are a tourist county, it’s perhaps the biggest employer; I always felt we should cater for everybody to come and enjoy the beauty of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, and the rest.

“There is a need for accommodation which is affordable to all.”

Cllr Owen’s call for approval failed, with the recommendation for refusal later passing.

The application site is some 400 metres from the partly-demolished RAF St Twynnells Rotor Radar Station, developed to counter the threat of attack by the Soviet Union after their first trial of a nuclear weapon in 1949.

Heartwarming Christmas gesture by six-year-old Willow Tate

IN AN TOUCHING display of Christmas spirit, six-year-old

Willow Tate from Haverfordwest has captured the hearts of

locals with her selfless act of kindness.

Willow, who had £5 in pocket money, spent only £2 for herself and chose to donate the remaining £3 to a homeless man in the town. Accompanying her gift with a heartfelt “Merry Christmas” wish, Willow’s gesture was more than just a donation; it was a moment of genuine empathy and understanding during the festive season.

Her actions come from a profound sense of awareness that not everyone is fortunate enough to have a roof over their head or a meal to enjoy this Christmas.

The young girl’s thoughtful act has been praised by community members, highlighting the true spirit of giving and compassion that defines the holiday

season.

As Willow’s story spreads, it serves as a reminder of the impact of kindness, regardless of age or the size of the gesture. Her parents and the community are incredibly proud of her, and rightly so. Her selfless act is a beacon of hope and a true embodiment of the Christmas spirit, setting a shining example for us all.

This heartwarming tale not only brings a ray of light to one individual but also inspires others to think about the less fortunate during these festive times. Willow Tate, at just six years old, has shown what it means to give selflessly and love unconditionally, embodying the very essence of Christmas.

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Free events at The Torch thanks to funding THE TORCH THEATRE says it is pleased to announce a brand-new programme of FREE events running during January through to March. Thanks to the support of The National Lottery Community Fund, the Torch has put together an exciting programme of creative events for the community, which offers an escape from the cold wintery days, and will allow you to experience Torch Theatre’s truly unique brand of hospitality.

The fortnightly daytime sessions are primarily aimed at those in the Pembrokeshire community aged 60 and over, but everyone is welcome. All sessions will take place in the Torch Theatre’s Joanna Field Gallery offering something for all.

Tim Howe, the Torch Theatre’s Youth and Community lead explains

more: “The professionally led creative activities will include arts and crafts, drama workshops, Zumba, and a book club linked to our cinema and theatre programming.

Other activities on offer include access to the Torch Theatre’s play library featuring a range of plays, and a fabulous children’s toybox and colouring corner.”

The Torch Café will be home to a ‘Conversation Table’ where every two weeks members of the Torch Team will be available for you to get to know and talk about whatever you like.

Tim added: “We are thrilled to be supported

by The National Lottery Community Fund, which will enable us to provide a fantastic range of free creative activity for our community.

“As the arts centre for Pembrokeshire, we know the vital role we play for

many members of our community, as a space to create and connect. We are also aware that we are a civic resource which everyone should be able to access. This funding seeks to better that relationship and throw open our doors to even more people at a time when finances are being squeezed.

“We know that older members of our community and families have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-ofliving crisis. We hope that by offering our community the opportunity to access safe and regular creative connections with others that we will support everyone’s mental health and well-being.”

In addition to all this activity, the Torch Theatre has a fun filled February half term of fantastic family things to do. Alongside the previously mentioned regular activities, there will

be family arts and crafts, family Zumba and even the Torch Theatre’s first Welsh language drama morning for everyone called Theatr Gymraeg!

All of the weekday

sessions run from 10.30am – 12pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9th January. Check out the Torch Theatre’s website, social media posts, flyers

and posters for details of dates and times of the things that interest you the most.

For further information contact Tim directly on tim@torchtheatre.co.uk.

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The volunteers giving their time at Christmas WHILE many people will be celebrating Christmas with their friends and family at home this year, a selfless team of Childline volunteers will be giving up their time to listen to children and young people about anything that might be worrying them.

It is a vital service that operates every day and Christmas Day is no different. Dedicated volunteer counsellors at Childline’s 12 bases across the UK, including in Cardiff and Prestatyn, will be working and answering calls from children and young people throughout the festive period.

Last year Childline delivered 5,501 counselling sessions with children across the UK during the 12 days of Christmas between December 24 and January 4, averaging around 450 a day.wester Childline counsellors know that while many children will be looking forward to spending time with their loved ones, for others Christmas can be a challenging time.

For some, spending an extended amount of time at home with their family can lead to tensions or amplify existing issues and this can leave many children feeling upset and isolated.

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Among the volunteers working a shift this Christmas Day are Borbala Martos and Childline supervisor Amy Beaumont who

will be at the NSPCC’s Childline base in Cardiff.

Borbala said: “I’ve been a Childline Volunteer Counsellor for six years and I’m always happy to do a shift at Christmas, if I’m in Cardiff and not away visiting family.

“Christmas s supposed to be a magical time filled with warmth and happiness for children and young people, but we know all too well that’s not the case for some.

“At this time of year, children and young

people who are lonely or vulnerable can feel even more isolated and in need of support, so for me, giving up a few hours of my Christmas day, doesn’t feel like such a difficult thing to do, especially if I know that means being there

for young people when they desperately need someone to talk to.”

Amy, who has been a supervisor with Childline for 13 years, said: “We are extremely lucky in Childline Cardiff to have such passionate and committed volunteers who continue to give their spare time, even during the holiday period.

“For some young people Christmas can be the most difficult time of the year and it’s also a time when they may have limited access to their usual support services. However, our Childline volunteers will be here to listen and give support at any time they need.

“The Childline service is here for children every day, even on Christmas Day. Children can contact Childline 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. When a child needs help and Christmas means abuse, Childline is a lifeline and so it is vital that our counsellors are here and ready to listen and support children across the UK.” Anyone who is interested in becoming a Childline Volunteer should visit the NSPCC website to find out more.

Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk

CAMRA wants Welsh Government re-think on business rates A CONSUMER group is warning that reducing help with business rates could lead to more pubs being lost as community hubs Responding to the publication of the Welsh Government’s draft 2024/25 Budget which sees a reduction in help with business rates for pubs and other hospitality businesses from 75% down to 40% from April 2024, Director of CAMRA Wales Chris Charters said: “Pubgoers will

be disappointed to see support for business rates bills for pubs, social clubs and breweries being cut – despite money from the UK Government being made available to keep the discount at 75%.

“Our locals are at the heart of community life across Wales, bringing communities together, helping to tackle loneliness and providing a safe social space to enjoy a drink with friends and family.

They deserve help so they can survive and

thrive in the months and years ahead.

“That’s why I am urging the Welsh Government to think again and keep the business rates discount at 75% as it is in England. At a time when customers are tightening their belts and businesses are grappling with rising costs, this help is desperately needed if we are to avoid more pubs, clubs and breweries being lost for good to communities across the country.”

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Domestic abuse victims explains difficulty leaving abusive partner A WOMAN who suffered years of emotional control and physical assaults at the hands of her partner has opened up about the difficulty of leaving an abusive relationship.

While it can be easy for those on the outside to ask ‘why don’t you just leave’, there are often fears around housing, money, or the impact leaving might have on children. And as Jess explains, someone who has been abused might still have a form of connection with their abuser, or has been manipulated into thinking they have changed.

Jess has spoken out about three years of emotional and physical abuse as part of DyfedPowys Police’s winter campaign, which aims to empower those living with domestic abuse, stalking or harassment to report incidents and find support.

When Jess started a relationship with her ex-partner, she admits there were early – if subtle – signs of abusive behaviour, which stemmed from his jealousy. While friends picked up on these behaviours, Jess would be told by her partner that they were ‘interfering’.

“He always convinced me that he was just emotional due to the strength of his feelings for me and that he obviously didn’t mean the nastier things he said under the influence of alcohol,” she said.

“My friends tried to tell me the relationship could have been considered abusive, but I was deeply in denial.”

Over time, the abuse

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Editor@herald.email

Jess faced escalated. She was called derogatory names, emotionally controlled, and was repeatedly accused of being unfaithful. If she spent time away from home, her partner wanted constant contact.

“Time spent with friends would always result in abuse when I went back home, so there were times when I decided that it wasn’t worth it,” she said.

“He would constantly question me on what I was doing and my feelings towards him, he went through my phone behind my back, read my diary and would use entries from the past

against me.

“For some months, despite his emotionally abusive behaviour, I always believed he would never physically hurt me.”

The emotional abuse did lead to physical assaults, however, and Jess was subject to attacks and threats.

Following one incident she took the brave step in calling Dyfed-Powys Police after fleeing with her phone.

“For once I had physical evidence in the form of a cut, so I thought I would be taken more seriously, rather than it being just his word against mine,” she said.

“Until then I had always felt as though anything within my relationship was my own mess to sort

out.”

Jess learned that she had been the victim of domestic abuse in the form of controlling and coercive behaviour for two years.

“I was surprised when the police said I’d described one of the more serious situations of domestic abuse they’d ever encountered, based on just how much I’d come to accept as normal,” she said.

“Up to this point I had felt embarrassed for involving the police and assumed they’d dismiss it because I didn’t have serious physical injuries.”

Jess’s abuser was arrested and charged with assault.

Despite this, she was manipulated

into restarting their relationship a few short months later, with promises that he had changed. However, she suffered another year of abuse before calling it off once more.

While they are now separated, and Jess knows he poses a danger to her, she fears she might never be free from him.

“I feel massively emotionally affected and traumatised by our time together,” she said.

“He’s still contacting me on a daily basis trying to win me back. I’d rather have no contact with him at all, but he keeps talking me round to it. I respond to this because part of me has been conditioned to please him to avoid the

abuse.

“Sometimes I fear I will never truly escape him – and that my remaining friends will abandon me to this fate.”

While Jess appreciates how difficult it is to speak out, she hopes that reading her story might be the push someone needs to seek help.

“I always liked to think of myself as a strong, intelligent, independent woman and never imagined I would find myself in this sort of situation, but it really can happen to anyone,” she said.

“It’s not your fault.

The only person who should feel shame in an abusive relationship is the abuser.”

Cark park pay meters damaged or stolen in Haverfordwest A NUMBER of Pay meters within Haverfordwest have been damaged or stolen overnight sometime between 14th – 15th December within Perrots Road Car Park, County Hall Car Park and St Thomas Green car park, police have said.

Anyone with information that could help officers with their investigation is asked to report it to DyfedPowys Police, either online at: https://bit.ly/ DPPContactOnline, by emailing 101@dyfedpowys.police.uk, or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing,

or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908. Quote reference: 23001278472 Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

NEWS 25

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Striking new panels go on display at Strumble Head

A SET of striking new interpretation panels have recently been installed at Strumble Head following a collaboration between the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and Goodwick-based marine conservation charity Sea Trust Wales.

Strumble Head welcomes thousands of visitors each year, drawn by scenic views of the lighthouse, carpets of sea campion, thrift and heather, and aweinspiring wildlife.

Perched on the cliff is an old World War Two lookout building, where visitors can now enjoy a set of new interpretation panels, funded by Visit Wales’s Brilliant Basics Fund and providing information about the landscape and wildlife of the area.

National Park Authority Interpretation Officer, Rhowan Alleyne, commented: “When we

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Editor@herald.email

started to create these displays, we really wanted to help visitors spot the magical sea life at Strumble and recognise what they see.

Who better to work with than Sea Trust Wales, who are out monitoring the wildlife here almost every day. I’m so grateful to Holly Dunn and her team of volunteers for sharing their invaluable knowledge.”

Strumble Head is a location used by Sea Trust Wales for their world leading porpoise Photo-ID project, in which volunteers spend several days a week surveying and recording cetacean sightings.

Over 200 porpoises have been identified so far, and the photographic database built up by Sea Trust Wales helps marine scientists to understand how far porpoises travel, and where they feed and

breed.

“What makes Strumble Head so special for sea life is the tidal race,” said Sea Trust Wales Manager Holly Dunn, “the strong currents churn up nutrients that feed plankton. Small fish like sand eels feed on the planktons, and sand eels feed many other species, from mackerel, to guillemots, to porpoise, right up to minke whales. Strumble Head is a spectacular feeding ground.”

Sea Trust volunteer Ken Barnett has spent over a decade observing and photographing the wildlife at Strumble Head and said: I’ve met thousands of people during my surveys at Strumble and had a love of passing knowledge on to others, especially young children, who after all will be the caretakers of nature as time moves on.

“As an educational tool, these new

interpretation panels are exceptional and complete the Strumble experience for visitors.

It’s been an honour to participate in the project and I applaud Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority for their provision.”

Once an experimental communications station built in World War

Two, Strumble Head lookout was saved from demolition in the 1980s after it was bought by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, becoming a valuable site for the study of bird migrations and sea life.

The National Park Authority also owns and manages about 10 acres of arine heathland at

Strumble Head, which is a rare habitat important for wildflowers, insects, reptiles and birds.

The new interpretation panels give visitors a better understanding of the amazing wealth and variety of wildlife that can be spotted on the cliffs and in the waters around Strumble Head.

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Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi’s mobile phone policy praised by councillors A PEMBROKESHIRE school, which operates a ‘check-in’ facility for pupils’ mobile phones, could become a model followed by others in the county, councillors heard.

The issue of mobile phones and their effect on pupil’s education was raised in a submitted question by Councillor Viv Stoddart, heard at the December 14 meeting of full council. llr Stoddart said: “During a recent visit to Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi by a panel of councillors serving on the council’s Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee, members were impressed with the school’s mobile phones policy.

“Last month the visiting panel reported back to the scrutiny committee that the system of pupils checking their phones into a locked cabinet at the start of the school day, and retrieving them at the end of the day, had resulted in a 75 per cent improvement in safeguarding, vastly improved behaviour and better communication.

“Will the Cabinet Member for Education and the Welsh Language [Cllr Guy Woodham] tell council how many of our secondary schools have a similar “checkin” mobile phones’ policy which reduces classroom disruption, improves learning and prevents pupils being bullied?”

Bruce Sinclair

Local Democracy Reporter

Responding, Cllr Woodham said St Davids’ Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi was the only school in the county currently operating such a scheme.

He said a recent presentation by the school’s head to other headteachers prior to the recent visit had shown an encouraging difference in behaviour and safeguarding, despite initial teething problems.

He said other schools in the county were monitoring the

effects of the policy, with a briefing for school governors expected in the Spring.

Cllr Stoddart welcomed to news, hoping the council would give it support.

Cllr Woodham stressed the council would encourage adoption of similar policies rather than enforce such conditions, but added: “The evidence does seem to support that it makes a significant difference.”

An article on Wales On Line this week focused on the new mobile phone policy at a school, which has received positive feedback from

parents, staff, and the headteacher, Mrs. Rachel Thomas. The policy, which is not an outright ban, involves students handing in their phones at the beginning of the school day and retrieving them at the end.

One parent expressed gratitude for the policy, noting that it helped her daughter learn to value her time in school and separate it from phone usage. Another parent observed a transformative impact on their daughter, praising the school for its bold decision. The absence of phones has reportedly led to increased sociability among students.

Staff members have also welcomed the change. Mrs. Thomas relayed comments from teachers who noticed a significant decrease in issues related to inappropriate photos, social media, and group chat related unkindness.

They also reported a noticeable improvement in pupils’ social skills and communication, as well as a reduction in distractions from learning.

Mrs. Thomas explained that while the policy isn’t a total ban, it requires students to hand in their phones during the school day, addressing issues like sexting, texting during

lessons, and students leaving classes to meet.

This decision was made after consulting with parents, staff, governors, and pupils. The policy has led to a more focused learning environment, with only one incident of phone damage and a mix-up in phone retrieval.

Furthermore, the absence of phones in classrooms has stopped students from using them during lessons, leading to better engagement and academic outcomes, especially noted in the mathematics department where students now use scientific calculators instead of phones.

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Senior councillors to consider self-build homes A CALL to change Bruce Sinclair legal agreements Local Democracy Reporter associated with new homes to help Council changes first-time buyers its policy on the in Pembrokeshire collection of Section become “self- 106 contributions on builders” is to be domestic new build heard by senior properties and allows councillors. self-builders that In a notice of motion qualify as first-time before the December buyers and live in the 14 meeting of said property as their Pembrokeshire County only home to defer Council’s full council, S106 contributions Councillor Mark Carter whilst they live in the said: “One of the property until the time biggest challenges the property is sold. facing the economy of “The contribution Pembrokeshire is the would then be paid to lack of suitable housing PCC out of the sale for the people that proceeds.” were brought up in the Section 106 of the county and wish to live Town and Country and work here.

Planning Act 1990 “One option that allows a local planning could make a small authority to enter difference to this is to into a legally-binding encourage first-time agreement or planning buyers to become self- obligation with a builders. landowner as part of “This Notice of the granting of planning Motion asks that permission.

Pembrokeshire County

The legal agreements – most often associated with new builds – often take

the form of a financial contribution which may be used to develop community facilities.

Members of the December meeting agreed Cllr Carter’s notice would be

considered by members of the county council’s Cabinet at a later date.

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Friendship extended as school is gifted artwork by celebrated illustrator A STRONG friendship between celebrated illustrator Margaret Jones and Prendergast Community Primary School is continuing more than 20 years on.

In the early 2000s, the pupils and staff of Prendergast Junior School forged a strong relationship with Margaret when they studied her fantasy book, ‘Nat’.

A group of pupils met her at her home and interviewed her and during this visit, Margaret revealed that she had written a sequel to the book, but it had not been published.

Keen to find out what happened next, the pupils lobbied the publisher and encouraged Margaret to release the sequel.

A friendship began that enriched the pupils’ educational experience and brought them closer to Wales’ cultural heritage, inspiring them to write and draw.

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When released, ‘Nat and the Box of Gifts’ was dedicated to the staff and pupils of Prendergast Junior School.

The fondness Margaret felt for the school was evident when she gifted all the original artwork from the books to the school.

This art hung proudly on the walls of the new Prendergast CP School, when it opened in 2007.

Recently, the school contacted Margaret to enquire as to how these works of art can be shared more widely and enjoyed by the people of Wales.

Margaret’s son, Mark, visited the school to receive the artwork and he was keen for the school to retain some of the pieces.

Louise John, Headteacher of Prendergast CP School said: “We are thrilled that Margaret and her family

would like us to keep some of the artwork as testament to the historic relationship between her and the school.

“The art will be a reminder of our ongoing commitment to promoting Welsh culture and literature. The retained artworks will continue to be proudly displayed at the school and this generous donation stands as a beacon of Margaret’s remarkable contribution to Welsh arts and literature.”

Margaret Jones, now approaching her 105th birthday, has been a pivotal figure in Welsh visual arts.

Her illustrious career blossomed later in life, as she began painting professionally at the age of 60. She is best known for her enchanting illustrations of Welsh myths and stories, which have played a Pictured: Margaret Jones’ son Mark, is pictured with Prendergast CP School significant role in defining the pupils and some of the original artwork. visual mythology of Wales.

Her works, characterised captivated audiences young life. put on display at the by their vivid imagination and old, bringing the rich It is hoped that artwork National Library of Wales, and intricate details, have tapestry of Welsh folklore to by Mrs Jones will be Aberystwyth.

NEWS 29

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Jubilee Sailing Trust closes due to a lack of funds JUBILEE SAILING TRUST, which owns and operates the tall ship SV Tenacious, has announced that it has closed due to a lack of funds The company, and its charity arm, the Jubilee Sailing Trust has strong links to Pembrokeshire, and ships have sailed from and have been repaired in Milford Haven over many years.

The Trust has been facing financial difficulties due to the financial burden of running SV Tenacious, which costs £150,000 a month to run.

The Jubilee Sailing Trust will be reviewed by the Charity Commission to see if it can continue to operate.

The charity’s Deed of Trust could allow it to operate differently in the future.

In a statement on its website, the trust

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said: “The last 4 years have seen two largescale funding appeals, refinancing, several restructures, and a reduction in fleet size to one ship – and of course a pandemic.

With much internal and external consultation we have tried different funding models, most of which have been heavily reliant on fundraising, or, trying to attract partners willing to pay full price to charter the ship. For the last 15 months we tried a funding strategy that was more reliant on income from our voyage crew paying for 75-80% of the cost of a voyage (or using bursary funding secured for this purpose).

Unfortunately neither our voyage sales nor our fundraising efforts have been successful in meeting the c.£150k/

month required to operate Tenacious and keep her legally compliant to deliver our voyages, nor to repay the historic debt (c.£477k) accumulated prior to the September 2022 change in strategy.

Whilst we have been investigating several options to change our situation, including loans and alternative business plans, we recently learned we were also unsuccessful in being able to raise the full amount required to put Tenacious through her regulatory dry docking in time to deliver our planned Atlantic crossing. If we were to attempt to restart the programme in the Caribbean, sailing as a ‘delivery voyage’ (without voyage crew having paid to sail and meet the voyage costs) to the Caribbean would incur significant new expenditure that we

would not be able to meet with the rest of the winter voyage programme.

This means there is no viable way to fulfil our Caribbean voyages, and as such all voyages up to April 2024 needed to be cancelled.

Without the funds from the balance payments for those winter voyages (of which almost £100k would be due now), and knowing we would be unable to

refund the voyage crew whose voyages have been cancelled, we initiated emergency talks with our Board, financial and legal advisors, and other key persons with long-term connections to the JST history.

Unfortunately as we are now without identified income to meet our imminent expenditure in December (including the wages of our crew and shore-based team) we

no longer have the time to pursue other financing options, nor a public fundraising appeal, and our legal advisors view closure as the only option available.

Tenacious and all assets owned by JST(T)L will pass into the hands of the Official Receiver, appointed by the court. All staff (ship and shore) are employed by the JST(T)L company and as such will no longer be in post.”

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IN 1958, the Milford Haven Port Authority (MHPA) emerged as a pivotal force in the maritime history of Milford Haven.

As the port commemorates its 65th anniversary, the celebration extends beyond the mere passage of time, acknowledging the transformative role played by the MHPA in steering the port through economic shifts, industrial revolutions, and community development.

The establishment of the MHPA in 1958 was a strategic response to the growing significance of Milford Haven as a maritime hub. The authority was entrusted with the task of overseeing port operations, managing development projects, and positioning Milford Haven as a key player in the maritime industry.

From the outset, the MHPA’s mandate extended beyond mere administration; it embodied a commitment to proactive planning and visionary leadership.

In the early years, as the port faced the challenges associated with the decline of the fishing industries, the MHPA became a linchpin for steering Milford Haven towards a new economic horizon. The emergence of the oil refinery industry, epitomised by the Milford Haven Refinery (later known as the Chevron Refinery), marked a turning point. The MHPA, recognizing the economic potential of this industry, worked handin-hand with oil companies to facilitate the expansion and modernization of refinery facilities.

The MHPA’s responsibilities encompassed the development of crucial infrastructure to support the oil industry’s activities. It played a pivotal role in creating facilities for the efficient handling, storage, and transportation of oil and related products.

This collaboration not only positioned Milford Haven as a significant hub for oil processing but also solidified its role in the global energy supply chain.

The South Hook

LNG Terminal, a collaborative venture involving the MHPA, added another layer to Milford Haven’s maritime prominence. The MHPA’s involvement in this project showcased its adaptability to changing energy dynamics, as the terminal became a cornerstone for liquefied natural gas operations. The authority, recognising the strategic importance of energy diversification, contributed to Milford Haven’s resilience and continued relevance in the global energy market.

Beyond its industrial endeavours, the MHPA embraced a commitment to environmental stewardship.

In an era where sustainable practices are paramount, the authority likely implemented measures to minimise the ecological footprint of port activities. Balancing industrial growth with environmental responsibility, the MHPA has demonstrated its dedication to fostering a sustainable and ecologically conscious maritime environment.

The community engagement initiatives undertaken by the MHPA further highlight its multifaceted role.

Beyond its economic contributions, the authority actively supports local initiatives, collaborates with stakeholders, and ensures that the benefits of port activities are shared with the community. Employment generation, infrastructure development, and community partnerships underscore the MHPA’s commitment to holistic port management.

As Milford Haven Port Authority celebrates its 65th anniversary, it does so with a legacy intertwined with dynamic industrial development, community enrichment, and environmental responsibility. The authority’s multifaceted responsibilities — overseeing port operations, fostering industrial growth, and ensuring environmental sustainability — showcase its pivotal role in steering Milford Haven towards continued success. Looking forward, the MHPA remains a beacon of maritime excellence, guiding the port through new challenges and reaffirming its commitment to industry, community, and environmental stewardship.

NEWS 31

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Click here to watch the anniversary video

Celebration event marks 65 years of progress OVER 200 guests, including the First Minister, the Welsh Secretary, and the Chair of the Welsh Select Committee, came together at a gala dinner to mark the 65th anniversary of the creation of the Port of Milford Haven, earlier this month.

Representatives from the Port’s broad stakeholder base including clients, business and community partners, and current and future generations, attended the celebration which provided a moment to pause and reflect but also, importantly, to look forward.

During the evening, a short film was launched which captures the organisation’s rich history, alongside a glimpse into the promising future that lies ahead, rooted in the evolution of the nationally critical assets along the Milford Haven Waterway and green industries – Watch the Celebration video here Milford Haven is a major trust port, the largest port in Wales and the third biggest port in the UK. It plays a critical strategic role in supplying the country with fuel, gas and electricity, with major multi-million investments underway to create a green future.

The Port also plays a fundamental role in attracting tourists to Pembrokeshire, while promoting enduring partnerships with many youth, community and environmental groups.

An impressive line-up of speakers set out a clear vision for the Waterway, for Pembrokeshire, and for the region as Wales embraces the opportunities created by a Net Zero future.

“From humble beginnings, the Port has been on a remarkable journey,” reflected Tom Sawyer, CEO of Port of Milford Haven, while expressing his gratitude to all those who have contributed to the journey at the special evening.

He added: “As we embark on the next leg of our journey, the gala dinner was an opportunity to pause, reflect and look to the future. Over the past 65 years, we’ve gone from a bustling naval dockyard and fishing port, to become the country’s premier energy port. With our local and global partners, the future is bright: rooted in cleaner fuels, cleaner energy and innovation, with the Haven Waterway acting as green centre for excellence. The century ahead promises a bright future for the generations ahead, based upon fulfilling employment and a just transition to a cleaner future.”

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “As the UK’s leading energy port, Milford Haven waterway’s

A brief history of the Port In 2023, the Port of Milford Haven celebrates 65 years of operations.

Key timeline events include: 2022 - Milford Waterfront’s Tŷ Hotel opens 2021 - Work commences on the development of Pembroke Port as part of Pembroke Dock Marine; Milford Haven Energy Kingdom delivers two hydrogen initiatives

contribution to Wales’s economy, and the UK’s energy security, cannot be overstated. Milford Haven Port has been the foundation for so much of the region’s economic prosperity, with thousands of local people providing the skills to support our natural gas and petrochemical industries. Congratulations to everyone involved on the anniversary and I look forward to many more decades of the Port’s contribution to Wales.”

Welsh Secretary David TC Davies said: “I was delighted to attend this celebration of 65 years of the success for the Port of Milford Haven. It’s now the foremost energy port in the UK – a remarkable achievement. And it was great to hear about the bright future for the Port as it continues to develop. I had the opportunity to set out the UK Government’s ambition for developing floating offshore wind the in Celtic sea, and the investments that we are making to support that vision. Of course the Port of Milford Haven will have a vital role to play in that future and I’d like to thank them for their continued hard work and investment in Wales.”

Rt Hon Stephen Crabb MP, said: “The Port is not just a part of Milford Haven; it is the beating heart of Milford Haven. It provides an identity and character to the town that is very special indeed. But it’s also a source of jobs and prosperity for the whole County of Pembrokeshire. So it is right that we celebrate this important milestone, while also looking ahead to the new opportunities that green energy will bring to the Haven. With the world once again facing a period of enormous economic and industrial change, the Port of Milford Haven is well placed to capture a new generation of investment and opportunities that will benefit local people.”

2020 - Pembroke Dock Marine gains £60m Swansea Bay City Deal approval 2018 - New Floatel Cabins arrive at Milford Marina 2017 - Havens Head Retail Park acquired 2016 - Marine simulator suite opened 2015 - New lock gates installed 2014 - Liddeston Ridge solar array is completed 2012 - RWE Pembroke Power Station begins generating 2009 - ‘Tembek’ is the first Liquefied Natural Gas carrier to enter the Port 2008 - Pembroke Port Gate 4 was acquired 2004 - A candidate site since 1997, the Milford Haven Waterway becomes an official Special Area of Conservation (Pembrokeshire Marine SAC) 1998 - Pembroke Port Gate 1 was acquired and expands cargo handling capacity 1996 - Oil tanker ‘Sea Empress’ runs aground at the entrance to the

Haven. This tragedy was a watershed moment for the shipping and port industries resulting in UK-wide changes to port operations and an international impact on the way these vessels are designed 1992 - Irish Ferries starts running the Pembroke to Rosslare service 1991 - Milford Marina opens 1979 - The B&I Line’s MV Connacht arrived at the Port’s new £8m terminal on her inaugural sail from Cork on 23rd May 1977 - Land acquired for Pembroke Dock Ferry Terminal 1974 - 59m tonnes of cargo passes through the Port making it Britain’s largest port in terms of tonnage 1973 - Amoco Refinery comes on-stream 1969 - The Port receives the Esso Scotia, the first 250,000-ton vessel ever to call at a British port 1968 - Gulf Refinery comes on-stream 1965 - First 100,000ton vessel, the British Admiral, arrives at the Port on her maiden voyage 1964 - Texaco (Pembroke) Refinery comes on-stream 1962 - Annual tonnage entering Milford Haven passes 10m 1960 - Esso Refinery was opened by HRH Duke of Edinburgh 1958 - Milford Haven Conservancy Board was created by an Act of Parliament on the 30th April

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Friday December 22nd 2023

Trump and presidential immunity: A view from above SQUARK, my feathered friends and human readers! Stephen Seagull here, perched atop the legal landscape, peering down at a squabble that’s ruffling more than just feathers in Washington. The U.S. Supreme Court, that lofty roost of legal eagles, is mulling over a biggie – presidential immunity, squawk! This isn’t just about any ol’ bird in the nest, but about Donald Trump and the implications for the 2024 election and the broader scope of presidential power.

So, here’s the bird’s eye view: Jack Smith, the special counsel, is keen to bypass a step at the appellate court. He wants the Supreme Court to dive straight into this wormy issue because, let’s be honest, a ruling in Trump’s favor would pretty much end the Jan. 6 case. And time’s a-ticking! Delays could mean the trial wouldn’t happen before the election, giving Trump, if victorious, a chance to call off the prosecution – a classic game of cat and mouse, but with legal claws.

Now, readers, the Supreme Court should swoop in swiftly on this one. Their decision could decide if Trump stands trial before the 2024 elections, sending ripples (or should I say ripples) across the pond about their stance on executive authority, especially if Trump gets another shot at the presidency.

This isn’t just about January 6, my friends.

It’s about how the law will treat Trump or any future president who flaps back into the Oval Office.

Trump’s stance? It’s the

old Nixon tune: “If the president does it, it’s not illegal.” Squawk, that’s like saying if a seagull snatches your sandwich, it’s not theft!

The Supreme Court has been known to fast-track cases, so there’s hope for a speedy resolution. The D.C. Circuit is also flapping

its wings for a quick settlement, scheduling oral arguments soon. The Supreme Court shouldn’t dilly-dally, regardless of the D.C. Circuit’s decision.

Moving swiftly is crucial.

The court’s timeline could either pave the way for a trial and verdict in the criminal case before the

election or block it. They should also hasten their review of a related Jan. 6 case.

Now, let’s peck at the idea of presidential immunity. It’s always been a bit of an odd egg in the American constitutional nest. The courts and executive branch have

crafted a doctrine of immunity, not from the constitution directly, but based on the practical needs of the presidency.

Past cases, like United States v. Nixon, Nixon v.

Fitzgerald, and Clinton v. Jones, have all set precedents about the limits of presidential immunity.

Fast forward to 2020, in Trump v. Vance, where the court unanimously rejected Trump’s claims for absolute immunity. This shows that no president can flap entirely above the law.

The Department of Justice does say a sitting president is immune from federal criminal prosecution, but this doesn’t extend to expresidents. Gerald Ford’s pardon of Nixon underlined this point.

Lower courts have already brushed off Trump’s immunity claims.

In the civil case, a panel including a Trump appointee concluded that absolute immunity didn’t demand immediate dismissal of the lawsuit against him.

For a Supreme Court that claims to stick to text, history, and tradition, the answer should be clear: Trump should lose.

The Constitution doesn’t whisper a word about presidential immunity in such cases.

If the court twists precedent to support Trump’s logic, or delays the decision, it’ll show a gap between its words and actions, tilting the scales for a leading Republican contender.

It could also signal that Trump, if re-elected, might be emboldened to pursue political adversaries or misuse his powers, knowing the Supreme Court won’t stand in his way.

So, from my lofty perch, I squawk this: Let’s hope the Supreme Court makes a swift and just decision, for the sake of all us birds and humans alike. And with that, I flap my wings and take off, watching keenly from above. Squawk!

FEATURE 33 FEATURE

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BEDS TODAY THE PREMIER BED STORE IN HAVERFORDWEST ESTABLISHED IN 2000, WE PRIDE OURSELVES IN GIVING GREAT SERVICE AND EXPERTISE IN HELPING YOU CHOOSE A NEW BED. WHETHER IT’S FOR YOURSELF, A HOLIDAY LET, AIRBNB OR HOTEL; WE HAVE SOMETHING TO SUIT!

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As we joyfully stride into the third week of our campaign, just a stone’s throw away from Christmas, our excitement is palpable as we continue to spread the holiday cheer in ways that go beyond the conventional festive trappings.

This season, our focus remains steadfast on acknowledging and celebrating the unsung heroes of our community – our beloved local businesses!

Recall that heartening Facebook post we shared during ‘Small Business Saturday’? Your incredible response, boasting over 600 comments, left us utterly awestruck. Inspired by this overwhelming support, we’ve decided not only to sustain the revelry but to escalate it into a full-blown celebration, carrying us all the way through to Christmas!

Our local businesses aren’t just economic powerhouses; they are the enchantment that metamorphoses Pembrokeshire from a mere spot on the map into a genuine community.

The intricate network of connections between these enterprises creates a tapestry

of support that transcends ordinary transactions – it’s about strengthening a more resilient and inclusive community identity.

Every purchase from a local business is more than a transaction; it’s a vote for the fortitude and character of our town. It’s a heartfelt pledge to the prosperity of our community.

What started as a whimsical Facebook post has blossomed into a magnificent celebration of Pembrokeshire’s entrepreneurial spirit. From delightful gift shops to unparalleled services, our local businesses are stealing the limelight, illustrating that diversity is the lifeblood of our vibrant community.

And the most delightful part? We’re not slowing down.

Throughout this festive season, our aim is to ensure that every local gem mentioned in the comments section continues to shine brightly. The Pembrokeshire Herald stands resolute in its mission to guarantee that each local hero receives the well-deserved spotlight – making this Christmas a truly enchanting experience for both our entrepreneurs and shoppers alike!

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Local grower and fresh fruit, vegetable, salad wholesaler & retailer

73 Charles Street, Milford Haven

01646 279745 • www.freshandfruity.co.uk

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FEATURE 35

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In a nod to Wales’ vibrant culinary scene, The Pembrokeshire Herald is set to showcase the crème de la crème of local food establishments over the next 8 weeks.

These standouts have clinched top honours in categories like Restaurant of the Year, Gastro Pub of the Year, Chef of the Year, and more, all through the votes of an enthusiastic public.

The Food Awards Wales 2023, aimed at recognising excellence and promoting the country’s diverse industry, received

an overwhelming response from patrons who nominated their favourite spots across the region.

According to a spokesperson, “These awards are a testament to the passion and dedication of the country’s food industry.

The winners represent the very best of the Welsh food scene, reflecting the quality and diversity of the industry.”

This celebration is not just about accolades; it’s about spotlighting the establishments that consistently provide exceptional culinary

experiences.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be delving into the stories behind these winners, exploring what sets them apart in Wales’ dynamic food landscape.

As we raise a toast to these culinary champions, join us in savoring the richness of Wales’ gastronomic wonders – a celebration of flavour, tradition, and innovation that promises to tantalize your taste buds. Stay tuned for a delightful journey through the heart of Welsh cuisine!

Wales’ ‘Best Asian food establishment’

Wales’ ‘Best seafood establishment’

Wales’ ‘Gastro pub of the year south west’

Wales’ ‘Chef of the year.’

Wales’ ‘Best pizza’

Winner OF Best hotel restaurant 2023 The Crossroads Restaurant at The Begelly Arms is a light and airy conservatory restaurant and the perfect place for a meal

Wales’ ‘Best Hotel Restaurant’

The Abergwaun Hotel, Market Square, Fishguard 01348 874584 w w w. j t a b e r g w a u n h o t e l . c o . u k

Wales’ ‘Outstanding restaurant of the year’

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It wouldn’t quite be the Christmas schedule without some kind of animated adventure fit for all the family, and this year’s offering, Tabby McTat, is narrated by Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker. The new animation has been adapted from the hugely successful picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated

by Axel Scheffler, with Tabby McTat marking the 11th animated special of their work.

In this new adventure, we’ll follow the tale of this warm and wonderful friendship between a musical cat (voiced by Gangs of London’s Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísú) and a talented busker called Fred (Gavin and Stacey’s Rob Brydon).

Tabby McTat will air on BBC One and iPlayer at 2:35pm on Christmas Day.

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Eastenders promises explosive Christmas Day drama

WHAT’S ON

UPPER MARKET ST, HAVERFORDWEST,

FANS of Eastenders are eagerly anticipating the unraveling of a gripping mystery on Christmas Day – the identity of the lifeless body discovered on the floor of the iconic Queen Vic pub.

The stakes are high, and the suspects are plenty, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as they speculate who will be responsible for the demise of an unfortunate character.

Among the prime suspects are familiar faces from Walford: Linda Carter, Stacey Slater, Kathy Beale, Sharon Watts, Denise Fox, and Suki Panesar. The suspense is heightened as the soap teases the downfall of one unlucky gentleman at the hands of one of these characters, adding an air of intrigue to the seasonal storyline.

The plot thickens as various characters, including Ravi Gulati, Jack Branning, and Dean Wicks, find themselves in the frame for a grisly end. The guessing game intensifies, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the climactic reveal on Christmas Day. In the latest episode, a chilling clue has sent shockwaves through the soap’s fanbase, sparking widespread speculation that Nish Panesar may meet

his demise at the hands of his wife, Suki, and the fiery Stacey in a joint effort.

Tensions rise as Stacey vehemently declares, “I just want to do whatever is going to hurt [Nish] the most.” The revelation that Nish is aware of Suki’s secret affair only fuels fans’ conviction that a sinister plot is afoot.

Viewers took to social media, with one user on X (formerly Twitter) expressing

their theory: “Suki is plotting her revenge, NISH IS ABOUT TO GO BYE BYE.” The online chatter suggests that the upcoming Christmas episode will deliver a shocking turn of events, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the resolution of this gripping storyline.

However, the show threw a curveball at its audience in the last week, revealing an unexpected twist involving a

pair of cufflinks. Fans were left disappointed when it was unveiled that nearly every Walford resident had the opportunity to own a pair identical to those seen on the deceased body this Christmas. This revelation adds an extra layer of complexity to the mystery, leaving viewers questioning the significance of the cufflinks and how they might tie into the overarching plot.

As the countdown to Christmas continues, the anticipation for the dramatic revelation builds, promising viewers a festive feast of suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists in Albert Square. With the enigmatic storyline reaching its climax on Christmas Day, fans can expect an unforgettable episode that will leave a lasting impact on the residents of Walford.

Dr Who set to blast on to our screens this Christmas Day

In a Yuletide spectacle set to captivate Whovians across the globe, the much-anticipated Doctor Who Christmas Special for 2023 promises a festive adventure like never before. Ncuti Gatwa, stepping into the iconic role of the 15th Doctor, teams up with the talented Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday for their inaugural escapade under the watchful eye of showrunner Russell T. Davies, who marks his

return to the helm.

With the curtain falling on the Doctor Who 60th anniversary specials, the stage is now adorned for Ncuti’s holiday caper.

Davies, the mastermind behind the annual Christmas special tradition, has once again bestowed fans with a seasonal treat.

But what exactly awaits viewers in this whimsical journey through time and space?

Release Date and Excitement Building: Mark your calendars for the Doctor Who Christmas Special 2023, set to air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at the festive hour of 5.55 pm on Christmas Day. For our American friends, the special will be available on Disney Plus at the same time. As anticipation mounts, fans can indulge in a nostalgic revisit of past festive adventures by

exploring our guide on how to watch Doctor Who online for free.

And the excitement doesn’t end there! Russell T. Davies has confirmed that the festive fervor will continue into 2024, with a Christmas Special already in the works. While the exact air date remains a mystery, the prospect of consecutive festive specials ensures a double dose of holiday cheer for fans.

notable names such as Davina McCall, Michelle Greenidge, Angela Wynter, and Anita Dobson, each contributing their talents to the unfolding narrative.

In a twist as enigmatic as the Doctor’s own timeline, Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan has been unveiled as a cast member for the 2024 Doctor Who Christmas Special, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the future of the series.

Meet the New Faces: Ncuti Gatwa, inheriting the mantle from the esteemed David Tennant, steps into the limelight for his inaugural full episode.

As the 15th Doctor, Gatwa’s portrayal promises to offer a unique flavour to the beloved character, setting the stage for comparisons with the Doctor Who greats.

Joining Gatwa on this cosmic odyssey is Millie Gibson, known to Coronation Street enthusiasts, in her debut as Ruby Sunday, the Doctor’s latest companion.

The ensemble cast includes

Unveiling the Plot: The BBC tantalizingly hints at the plot, revealing that the Doctor, portrayed

by Gatwa, will come faceto-face with mythical and mysterious goblins.

The narrative takes an unexpected turn as the Doctor crosses paths with Ruby Sunday, portrayed by Gibson, whose mysterious past adds an intriguing layer to the storyline. Abandoned on Christmas Eve as a baby, Ruby’s life is set for a paradigm shift as she embarks on her maiden voyage with the Doctor.

WHAT’S ON 39

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“Charles III: The Coronation Year” premiering on Boxing Day This Boxing day, BBC One is set to grace screens with a captivating 90-minute film chronicling the inaugural year of King Charles III’s reign.

Viewers can have an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the life of King Charles and Queen Camilla, narrated by the esteemed Helena Bonham Carter.

No stranger to royal roles, Carter, acclaimed for portraying Princess Margaret in Netflix’s “The Crown” seasons 3 and 4, lends her distinct voice to guide audiences through the unfolding royal saga.

The documentary promises an immersive exploration of the events leading up to the historic coronation—an unprecedented ceremony

occurring after a hiatus of 70 years. With contributions from key figures within the royal family and the royal household, the film aspires

to provide a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in British history.

“Charles III: The Coronation Year” is poised

to be a visual spectacle, combining cinematic storytelling with firsthand accounts. From political manoeuvres to personal dynamics, the documentary aims to offer a nuanced and authentic portrayal of the lead-up to the coronation.

Mark your calendars for this regal affair as the highly anticipated documentary is scheduled to air on BBC One and iPlayer at 6:50 pm on Boxing Day. This meticulously crafted production promises to transport audiences into the heart of royalty, offering a unique and compelling narrative that is both educational and entertaining.

Secure your front-row seat on Boxing Day to witness history in the making as King Charles III ascends the throne in a new era.

Rebel Moon - A galactic symphony or a snyder cut extravaganza?

In the cosmic expanse of Zack Snyder’s latest venture, “Rebel Moon,” audiences are beckoned to embark on a two-part space opera, where the forces of an evil empire clash with a resilient band of rebels. For those immersed in the realms of Star Wars, Dune, Avatar, The Matrix, and an eclectic mix of pop culture phenomena, the film becomes a tapestry woven from the threads of science fiction, fantasy, and timeless mythologies.

Snyder, renowned for his work on Dawn of the Dead, 300, and Watchmen, now crafts a new narrative, free from the confines of remakes and intellectual-property series. Yet, the term “original” requires a second look, as “Rebel Moon” deftly amalgamates familiar elements from the annals of genre history. It’s a Snyder Cut of the past century’s science fiction and fantasy touchstones—a grand, supersized spectacle that pays homage to the classics.

Critiquing films for their borrowed influences may open a Pandora’s box within the Geek Entertainment Industrial Complex. Akin to George Lucas drawing from Flash Gordon serials, Akira Kurosawa films, and various cultural fragments to birth Star Wars, Snyder’s inspiration forms a similar mosaic. The echo of Joseph Campbell’s influence reverberates through Hollywood’s summer blockbusters since 1977.

“Rebel Moon” began as Snyder’s vision for

a Star Wars spin-off, adding an intriguing layer to its cosmic odyssey. The film invites audiences to explore a universe built on borrowed yet cherished fragments of the Geek Entertainment tapestry. As we traverse this galaxy, it becomes evident that “Rebel Moon” is not just a film; it’s a homage to the enduring legacy of science fiction and fantasy storytelling.

In a world where every blockbuster carries the DNA of its predecessors, Snyder’s creation stands as a testament to the timeless art of storytelling—a nod to the past, a celebration of the present, and a glimpse into the infinite possibilities of the future.

So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of the classics or a newcomer to the genre, “Rebel Moon” offers a cinematic journey through the cosmos, where the familiar and the fantastical converge in a mesmerizing dance of homage and innovation.

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Maidenwells Garage

Maidenwells Garage, The Fields, Maidenwells Pembroke, SA71 5ES Tel: 01646 685792 E-mail: info@maidenwellsgarage.co.uk

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What’s on 41

FRIDAY’S TV 22.12.23 CHOICE

Robin Askwith The Madame Blanc Mysteries Christmas Special Channel 5, 9pm Judith and Jeremy have arranged for their friends to attend a murder mystery night at a hotel with a spooky history.

However, matters take a deadly turn when a dead body turns up. Drama, starring Sally Lindsay, Steve Edge, Alex Gaumond, Sue Holderness and Robin Askwith.

Listings supplied by PA Media

BBC1

BBC2

ITV1 WALES

S4C

CHANNEL 5

DIGITAL

6.00 Breakfast. 9.15 Animal Park Christmas Special. (R) 10.00 For Love or Money. (R) 10.45 Frontline Fightback. 11.15 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 12.15 Bargain Hunt. 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Attenborough and the Giant Dinosaur. (R) 2.45 Escape to the Country. (R) 3.45 Ricky & Ralf’s Very Northern Road Trip.

(R) 4.30 Celebrity Bridge of Lies.

(R) 5.15 Pointless Celebrities. (R) 6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

7.00 Celebrity Mastermind. With Troy Deeney, Jasmine Harman, OJ Borg and Dana.

7.30 EastEnders. Howie saves the carol concert at the eleventh hour.

8.00 Would I Lie to You? at Christmas. New series. With Victoria Coren Mitchell, Naga Munchetty, Alex Brooker and Melvyn Hayes.

8.30 Here We Go. Rachel tries to plan an absolutely classic Jessop family Christmas.

9.00 Have I Got 2023 for You. 9.30 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop – Shirley Bassey Special.

10.00 BBC News at Ten. 10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Two Doors Down.

11.10 Bad Education: A Christmas Carol. (R) 11.40 The Cleaner. (R) 12.10 Film: Mrs Brown’s Boys D’Movie. (2014) 1.45 BBC News.

6.15 Homes Under the Hammer: Celebrity Special. (R) 7.15 Celebrity Escape to the Country.

(R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World Winter Specials. (R) 9.00 Film: The Bishop’s Wife.

(1947) 10.45 Film: King of Kings. (1961) 1.25 The Great British Sewing Bee: Celebrity Christmas Special. (R) 2.25 Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King.

(R) 3.25 Film: West Side Story.

(1961) 5.45 Blackadder’s Christmas Carol. (R) 6.30 Gardeners’ World Winter Specials. Tips on how to clean garden tools before putting them away for winter.

7.30 Only Connect Specials: Christmas. Victoria Coren Mitchell presents a festive edition of the quiz show. (R) 8.00 Christmas University Challenge. Imperial College London takes on Liverpool.

8.30 Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games. With Richie Anderson, Simon Gregson, Jessica Knappett and Debbie McGee. 9.00 Film: House of Gucci.

(2021) Premiere. Fact-based crime drama, starring Lady Gaga.

11.30 Film: Alien. (1979) Sci-fi horror, starring Sigourney Weaver.

1.20 Sign Zone: Panorama. (R) 1.50 Julius Caesar: The Making of a Dictator. (R) 2.50 Vigil. (R) 3.50 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain.

9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.30 Loose Women.

1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 2.00 Dickinson’s Biggest and Best Deals. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point. (R) 5.00 The Chase. (R) 6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Welsh Lives. A look at the Theatr Felinfach in Ceredigion, and their latest panto.

7.30 Emmerdale. Marlon is lacking patience for the new house guests.

8.00 Coronation Street. Tony turns nasty when Ed tries to flee without paying him.

9.00 Parkinson: The Final Conversation. Another chance to see Michael Parkinson talking to David Beckham, Billy Connolly, Judi Dench and Dame Edna Everage. Plus, a performance

by Jamie Cullum. (R) 10.50 ITV News; Weather.

11.25 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

11.40 The Voice UK. With guest mentors Luke Evans, Paloma Faith, Raye and Jamie Cullum. (R) 1.20 Shop on TV. 3.00 Inside M&S at Christmas. (R) 3.50 Unwind.

5.05 Ainsley’s Festive Flavours. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Sain Ffagan.

(R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Nadolig Cwmderi. (R) 1.30 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Cofio ’Dolig Teulu Ni. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Cais Quinnell. (R) 6.35 Bex. Newyddion S4C. 7.00 Heno.

7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

8.00 Carol yr Wyl 2023.

8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

9.00 Cefn Gwlad.

10.00 Colleen Ramsey: Bywyd a Bwyd. (R) 11.00 Pren ar y Bryn. (R) 12.15 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.00 Come Dine with Me Christmas. (R) 6.25 Countdown. (R) 7.05 The King of Queens. (R) 8.20 The Big Bang Theory. (R) 9.20 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 10.20 Frasier. (R) 11.20 Channel 4 News Summary.

11.25 Film: Too Close for Christmas. (2020) 1.05 Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts. (R) 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas. (R) 4.00 A Place in the Sun. 5.00 Chateau DIY at Christmas. 6.00 Four in a Bed. (R) 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 The Dog House at Christmas. (R) 9.00 The Last Leg of Christmas. 10.00 Celebrity I Literally Just Told You with Jimmy Carr. 11.05 Film: Paul.

(2011) 1.00 Film: Daddy’s Home.

(2015)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine.

11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.15 Alexis Conran & Friends. 1.00 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.05 Film: A Very Yorkshire Christmas. (2019) 2.55 Film: Jingle Bell Princess. (2021) 4.40 Film: Sherlock Holmes.

(2009) 6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 World’s Strongest Man 2023. The Strongman Classic.

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Hampton Court: Behind Closed Doors. Behind the scenes at royal Christmas celebrations past and present, exploring traditions that date back to the reign of Henry VIII and the carol service held in the Chapel Royal. (R) 9.00 The Madame Blanc Mysteries Christmas Special. A murder mystery night at a hotel with a spooky history takes a lethal turn when a dead body turns up.

Drama, starring Sally Lindsay.

10.00 Film: The Bodyguard.

(1992) Romantic thriller, with Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston.

12.30 Celebs at Christmas: How Do They Do It? (R) 1.25 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.25 The Yorkshire Vet at Christmas: It’s a Wonderful Life. (R) 4.15 The Funny Thing About Christmas. (R) 5.05 Friends. (R) 5.25 Entertainment News. 5.40 Pip and Posy. (R) 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)

BBC Four 7.00 TOTP: Christmas Hits 8.30 Country Christmas 9.10 George Michael: Live in London 11.20 Madonna Rebel Heart Tour ITV2 3.05 Film: Rio (2011) 5.00 Dinner Date 6.00 Celebrity Catchphrase Christmas Special 7.00 Family Fortunes: Celebrity Christmas Special 8.00 Bob’s Burgers 9.00 Film: Pitch Perfect (2012) Comedy, starring Anna Kendrick. 11.10 Family Guy ITV3 3.30 Midsomer Murders 5.25 Downton Abbey 6.55 Heartbeat 8.00 Doc Martin Christmas Special 9.30 Grantchester 11.05 Law & Order: UK ITV4 3.40 The Sweeney 4.50 Minder 5.55 BattleBots 6.55 The Best of Saint & Greavsie 8.00 The Chase Celebrity Special 9.00 Film: The A-Team (2010) 11.25 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite E4 4.00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5.00 The Big Bang Theory 7.00 Hollyoaks 7.30 Young Sheldon 8.00 Modern Family 9.00 Made in Chelsea: Sydney 10.00 Gogglebox Festive Special 11.35 Naked Attraction Film4 2.50 Tooth Fairy (2010) 4.55 Bumblebee (2018) 7.10 Skyscraper (2018) Action thriller, starring Dwayne Johnson. 9.00 Deadpool 2 (2018) Action comedy, starring Ryan Reynolds. 11.20 Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)

SATURDAY’S TV 23.12.23 CHOICE

Graeme Stevely Two Doors Down BBC1, 9.35pm It hardly seems like two minutes since we were reunited with the cast when the seventh run of this delightful Scottish sitcom hit our screens.

Nevertheless, it all draws to a close this evening. In tonight’s edition, Alan and Michelle are back from their sojourn in Las Vegas, and although they’re exhausted, they can’t wait to share some important news.

F

R T, AN OFFE T INS SH A EC E R

BBC1

BBC2

ITV1 WALES

S4C

CHANNEL 5

DIGITAL

6.00 Breakfast. 10.00 Saturday Kitchen: Countdown to Christmas.

11.30 The Great Food Guys Christmas Special. (R) 12.00 Football Focus. 1.00 BBC News; Weather. 1.15 Film: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World. (2019) 2.50 Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas. (R) 3.20 DIY SOS: EastEnders Special. (R) 4.20 Final Score.

5.15 Stick Man. 5.40 BBC News. 5.50 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

6.00 The Hit List: Christmas Special. With Una Healy, Kimberly Wyatt, Gregg Wallace, Kate Thornton, George Shelley and Kitty Scott-Claus.

6.45 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop. 7.10 Christmas with Katherine Jenkins. A concert from the Swansea Arena.

8.10 The Weakest Link: Christmas Special. Alex Jones, Cliff Parisi, Coleen Nolan, Dane Baptiste and Paul Zerdin take part.

9.00 Blankety Blank Christmas Special.

9.35 Two Doors Down.

10.05 BBC News; Weather.

10.25 Match of the Day. 11.50 Film: Out of Sight. (1998) Romantic crime drama, with George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez.

1.45 Weather for the Week Ahead.

1.50 BBC News.

6.30 Hey Duggee. (R) 6.40 Love Monster. (R) 6.55 Nick Cope’s Popcast. (R) 7.05 Go Jetters Christmas Special: The North Pole.

(R) 7.25 Danger Mouse: Yule Only Watch Twice. (R) 7.50 Grizzy and the Lemmings. (R) 7.55 Pokemon: Sun and Moon – Ultra Legends. (R) 8.15 The Football Academy. (R) 8.45 Blue Peter. (R) 9.15 Gardeners’ World. (R) 10.15 Film: Jesus Christ Superstar. (1973) 12.00 Celebrity MasterChef: Christmas Cook-Off 2023. (R) 1.00 The A to Z of TV Cooking. (R) 1.05 Film: The Big Sleep. (1946) 2.55 Film: Casablanca. (1942) 4.35 The Best Dishes Ever. (R) 4.40 Film: Porridge. (1979) 6.15 Amy Dowden’s Dare to Dance. The Strictly star meets would-be dancers Suzanne and Roiyah. Last in the series. (R) 6.40 Film: Paddington. (2014) Family comedy, starring Hugh Bonneville.

8.10 Victoria Wood with All the Trimmings. A festive special from 2000. (R) 9.00 Disco at the BBC: Volume 3.

Another selection of classics from the archives.

10.00 Disco: Soundtrack of a Revolution.

11.00 Donna Summer: TOTP2 Special. (R) 11.30 Studio 54: The Documentary. (R) 1.10 Disco at the BBC. (R) 2.10 Teddy Pendergrass: If You Don’t Know Me. (R) 3.55 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 7.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 9.25 ITV News.

9.30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning at Christmas. 11.35 John and Lisa’s Christmas Kitchen. (R) 12.35 Gino’s Italian Christmas: The South. (R) 1.05 ITV News; Weather. 1.15 Film: Sing. (2016) 3.20 Film: How the Grinch Stole Christmas. (2000) 5.10 ITV News; Weather. 5.25 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 5.35 Film: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. (2018) 8.10 The Voice UK. Emma Willis presents the semi-final, in which the remaining acts compete for a place in the final, with the judges only allowed to pick one from each of their teams.

10.05 The 1% Club. Quiz hosted

by Lee Mack in which the questions are all about logic and common sense, with 100 contestants in every show having a chance of winning £100,000. (R) 10.55 ITV News; Weather.

11.10 English Football League Highlights. Action from the latest matches, including Leeds United v Ipswich Town, Blackburn Rovers v Watford, Sunderland v Coventry City and Barnsley v Stevenage.

12.30 Shop on TV. 3.00 Ant & Dec’s Christmas Limitless Win. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Ainsley’s Festive Food We Love. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Seligo. 8.30 Dathlu. (R) 9.10 Larfa. (R) 9.25 Boom! (R) 9.35 Un Cwestiwn. (R) 10.00 Hen Dy Newydd. (R) 11.00 Adre. (R) 11.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 12.00 Ffermio. (R) 12.30 Bwyd Epic Chris. (R) 1.30 Cais Quinnell. (R) 2.00 Prosiect Pum Mil. (R) 3.00 Gwesty Aduniad. (R) 4.00 Colleen Ramsey: Bywyd a Bwyd. (R) 5.00 Rygbi. Cardiff v Pontypridd (Kickoff 5.15pm).

7.20 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.

7.30 Noson Lawen. Meilir Rhys and Catrin Mara celebrate Christmas with the cast of Rownd a Rownd.

8.30 Welsh of the West End: Eisteddfod 2023. Another chance to see this show from the National Eisteddfod 2023.

10.00 Siwrna Scandi Chris. (R) 11.00 Pen Petrol. (R) 11.30 Yn y Lwp. (R) 12.05 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.10 The King of Queens. (R) 7.25 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 7.55 The Simpsons.

(R) 10.20 Film: A Christmas Carousel. (2020) 12.05 London Zoo at Christmas. (R) 1.05 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas. (R) 2.10 Channel 4 News. 2.35 Film: Scrooged. (1988) 4.30 Film: It’s a Wonderful Life. (1946) 7.00 Film: Men in Black 3. (2012) 9.00 Film: Die Hard. (1988) 11.35 Film: Scent of a Woman. (1992) 2.25 Film: Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues. (2013) 4.20-6.25 Hollyoaks Omnibus. (R)

6.00 Milkshake! 9.45 SpongeBob SquarePants. (R) 10.10 Entertainment News. 10.20 Friends. (R) 11.50 Film: Miracle on 34th Street. (1947) Christmas drama, starring Edmund Gwenn.

1.50 Film: Escape to Victory.

(1981) Second World War adventure, starring Michael Caine.

4.15 Film: The Dirty Dozen. (1967) Second World War action adventure, with Lee Marvin.

7.05 5 News Weekend.

7.10 World’s Strongest Man 2023. The Deadlift World Championships and World Open. Action from Cardiff Utilita Arena, where the planet’s leading strongmen competed for two prestigious titles.

8.10 An Invitation to Murder. In 1934, six strangers are invited to the remote island mansion of billionaire Lewis Findley – with deadly results.

Feature-length mystery, starring Mischa Barton.

10.10 Film: Bridget Jones’s Baby.

(2016) After a pair of onenight stands, the now single Bridget Jones winds up pregnant. Comedy sequel, starring Renee Zellweger and Colin Firth.

12.30 Criminals: Caught on Camera. (R) 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 Friends. (R) 4.20 Wildlife SOS. (R) 4.40 Great Artists. (R) 5.05 House Busters.

(R) 5.30 Entertainment News.

5.40 Pip and Posy. (R) 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)

BBC Four 7.00 Winterwatch 1963: The Big Freeze 8.00 Killer Storms and Cruel Winters: The History of Extreme Weather – Timewatch 9.00 Parkinson Takes a Christmas Look at Morecambe and Wise 1974 10.05 Parkinson with Michael Crawford and Liberace 11.20 Liberace in Concert ITV2 4.40 Film: Peter Pan (2003) 6.55 Film: Johnny English Reborn (2011) 9.00 Film: Wedding Crashers (2005) 11.25 Family Guy ITV3 2.55 Downton Abbey 7.00 Midsomer Murders ITV4 4.00 Nine Dart Finishes 4.05 Best of Saint & Greavsie 5.05 The Best of Saint & Greavsie 6.10 River Monsters 6.40 Film: Shalako (1968) 9.00 English Football League Highlights 10.30 Gallagher Premiership Rugby Union Highlights 11.30 Film: Rocky III (1982) E4 4.00 The Big Bang Theory 5.35 The Great Christmas Bake Off 2022 6.55 Film: My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997) 9.00 Gogglebox Festive Special 10.35 Gogglebox 11.40 Film: Bad Boys for Life (2020) Film4 2.40 Kung Fu Panda (2008) 4.25 Grease (1978) 6.40 The Day After Tomorrow (2004) 9.00 Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) 11.10 Terminator Genisys (2015)

We’ll buy your property quickly A certain, hassle-free property buying service

We’ll buy any type of property in any condition including: Houses, flats, bungalows, apartment blocks, short leases, inherited, portfolios, HMO’s, land and property in need of modernisation or redevelopment.

✔ Vacant, rented or occupied on any type of agreement: Sitting tenants, assured, regulated, HMO and AST’s. ✔ Confidential house buying service with no “for sale” sign ✔ No selling fees and we pay your legal costs too ✔ A guaranteed sale within your chosen timetable CALL FREE ON

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CHRISTMAS EVE TV 24.12.23 CHOICE

Kit Harington A Ghost Story for Christmas: Lot No 249 BBC2, 10pm It's 1881 and Old College, Oxford, plays host to three very different young academics. Abercrombie Smith is a model of Victorian manhood, Monkhouse Lee is a delicate and unworldly student from Siam, while the strange and exotic Edward Bellingham's arcane research into Ancient Egypt is the talk of the campus.

Listings supplied by PA Media

BBC1

BBC2

ITV1 WALES

S4C

CHANNEL 5

DIGITAL

6.00 Breakfast. 8.35 Match of the Day. (R) 10.05 Film: The Boss Baby. (2017) 11.30 Room on the Broom. (R) 12.00 Nigella’s Amsterdam Christmas. (R) 1.00 BBC News. 1.10 Weather for the Week Ahead. 1.15 Songs of Praise: Carols for Christmas Eve. 1.50 Christmas with Katherine Jenkins.

(R) 2.50 Film: The Sound of Music. (1965) 5.40 BBC News.

5.50 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

6.00 Countryfile: A Cumbrian Christmas. A Christmas special following young shepherdess Katie and her family.

7.00 Antiques Roadshow at Christmas. Fiona Bruce revisits stories from past episodes from Uppark House in West Sussex.

8.00 The Repair Shop Christmas Special. Items include a 1940s mechanical Christmas cake invention.

9.00 Beyond Paradise.

Humphrey investigates a set of break-ins where Santa is the number one suspect.

10.00 Not Going Out Christmas Special. Lee and Lucy invite a lonely pensioner to join them for Christmas dinner.

10.45 BBC News; Weather.

11.05 Match of the Day 2.

11.40 Midnight Mass from Portsmouth Cathedral. Live Christmas Eve service.

12.55 Film: Far from the Madding Crowd. (2015) 2.50 Weather for the Week Ahead. 2.55 BBC News.

6.20 A Vicar’s Life. (R) 6.50 Glorious Gardens from Above. (R) 7.35 Countryfile. (R) 8.35 Breakfast. 9.00 Mimi and the Mountain Dragon. (R) 9.25 James Martin: Home Comforts at Christmas. (R) 11.00 Nigella’s Christmas Table. (R) 12.00 Snow Babies. (R) 1.00 Film: White Christmas. (1954) 2.55 Christmas Classics: Talking Pictures. (R) 3.40 Inside the Christmas Factory. (R) 4.40 Kiri’s TV Flashback. (R) 5.10 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop – Christmas Special. (R) 5.40 The Hills Are Alive with the KannehMasons.

6.40 Carols from King’s. Music and readings from the Chapel of King’s College, Cambridge.

8.00 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder visit the Panorama Hotel Hubertus in Italy. Last in the series.

9.00 Killing Sherlock: Lucy Worsley on the Case of Conan Doyle.

10.00 A Ghost Story for Christmas: Lot No 249.

10.30 Tom Jones at 80. (R) 11.30 Natural World: Jungle Gremlins of Java. (R) 12.15 QI XL. (R) 1.00 Live at the Apollo Christmas Special. (R) 1.45 Sign Zone: Stacey Solomon’s Crafty Christmas. (R) 2.45 Nigella’s Amsterdam Christmas. (R) 3.45 The Hairy Bikers: Coming Home for Christmas. (R) 4.45 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Ainsley’s Food We Love. (R) 6.30 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R) 7.30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning at Christmas. (R) 9.25 ITV News.

9.30 Love Your Christmas with Alan Titchmarsh. 11.25 Fletchers’ Family Farm at Christmas. 12.25 Love Your Garden. (R) 12.55 ITV News; Weather. 1.05 Film: The Secret Life of Pets. (2016) 2.40 Film: The Grinch. (2018) 4.20 ITV News; Weather. 4.40 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 4.50 Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway Presents: Murder at Bigwig Manor. 5.25 Film: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. (1992) 7.45 Royal Carols: Together at Christmas. A service at Westminster Abbey attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

9.00 Britain Get Singing. Stars from TV’s biggest shows compete in a spectacular sing-off.

10.15 The Jonathan Ross Christmas Show. With Ariana DeBose, Katherine Jenkins, Willem Dafoe, Romesh Ranganathan and Kevin Bridges.

11.15 ITV News; Weather.

11.30 Christmas Carols on ITV. 12.25 The Royal Variety Performance 2023. (R) 2.35 Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow Christmas Special. (R) 3.25 Motorsport UK. (R) 4.15 Unwind. 5.05 Family Fortunes: Celebrity Christmas Special. (R)

6.00 Cyw. 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw. 9.00 Nadolig Plentyn yng Nghymru. (R) 9.30 Cynefin. (R) 10.30 Y Fets. (R) 11.30 Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol. (R) 12.00 Cais Quinnell. (R) 12.30 Only Boys Aloud. (R) 1.30 Yr Afon. (R) 2.30 Colleen Ramsey: Bywyd a Bwyd.

(R) 3.30 Ffermio. (R) 4.00 Carol yr Wyl 2023. (R) 4.55 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R) 6.00 Deian a Loli A Cloch Y Nadolig.

6.45 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.

7.00 Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol.

8.00 Priodas Pum Mil. 9.00 Pren ar y Bryn.

10.10 Cefn Gwlad. (R) 11.10 Goreuon Ryan a Ronnie. (R) 12.15 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.25 Cheers. (R) 7.25 The Tiger Who Came to Tea. (R) 7.50 The Snowman. (R) 8.25 Father Christmas. (R) 9.00 The Snowman and the Snowdog. (R) 9.30 Christmas Brunch. 12.30 Film: Charlotte’s Web. (2006) 2.20 Channel 4 News. 2.40 Film: A Christmas Carol. (1984) 4.40 The Snowman. (R) 5.10 The Snowman and the Snowdog. (R) 5.45 Film: Miracle on 34th Street. (1994) 7.45 Mog’s Christmas. 8.15 The Great Christmas Bake Off 2023. 9.30 Gogglebox 2023. 11.30 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown Christmas Special. (R) 12.30 Celebrity I Literally Just Told You with Jimmy Carr. (R) 1.25 Film: Micky Flanagan: The Out Out Tour.

(2011) 2.20 The Last Leg of Christmas. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.35 The Smurfs.

(R) 9.45 SpongeBob SquarePants.

(R) 9.55 Entertainment News.

10.00 NFL – End Zone. 10.30 Friends. (R) 11.30 Film: Scrooge – A Christmas Carol. (1951) 1.20 Film: The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017) 3.25 Film: The Holiday. (2006) 6.05 5 News Weekend.

6.10 The Vicar of Dibley: 30 Years of Laughs. A celebration of Richard Curtis’s sitcom. (R) 7.30 Bradley Walsh: My Comedy Heroes. Bradley explores the world of stand-up.

9.00 Only Fools and Horses: Greatest Christmas Moments. Memorable moments from festive editions of the classic sitcom.

10.30 Only Fools and Horses: Secrets & Scandals.

Behind-the-scenes stories of how the show was made. (R) 11.30 Film: Road House. (1989) A kung fu expert is hired to keep the peace in a rowdy Missouri bar, but his actions incur the wrath of a local crime boss. Action thriller, starring Patrick Swayze and Ben Gazzara.

1.40 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.

3.40 Entertainment News. 3.50 Friends. (R) 4.40 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.05 Entertainment News. 5.10 Paw Patrol. (R) 5.25 Peppa Pig. (R) 5.30 Fireman Sam. (R) 5.40 Pip and Posy. (R) 5.45 Thomas & Friends. (R)

BBC Four 7.00 Last of the Summer Wine 8.30 Yes Minister 9.30 One Foot in the Algarve 11.05 Bruce and Ronnie Christmas Special 1988 11.50 The Two Ronnies: Old Fashioned Christmas Mystery ITV2 3.45 Film: Smallfoot (2018) 5.40 Catchphrase Christmas Special 6.45 Film: Hairspray (2007) 9.00 Film: There’s Something About Mary (1998) 11.25 Family Guy ITV3 3.50 Film: Goodnight Mister Tom (1998) 6.00 Film: Dad’s Army (2016) Second World War comedy, starring Toby Jones. 8.00 Midsomer Murders 10.00 One More Audience with Dame Edna 11.05 Endeavour ITV4 3.45 Sharpe 8.00 Film: Rocky IV (1985) 10.00 Film: The Mummy (2017) E4 6.30 The Great New Year Bake Off 7.50 Film: Johnny English Strikes Again (2018) Spy comedy, starring Rowan Atkinson. 9.30 The Great Festive Bake Off 10.50 Derry Girls 11.55 The Inbetweeners Film4 2.40 Spies in Disguise (2019) 4.45 Deck the Halls (2006) 6.35 Star Trek (2009) Sci-fi adventure, starring Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto. 9.00 Taken (2008) Thriller, starring Liam Neeson.

10.50 Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

CHRISTMAS DAY TV 25.12.23 CHOICE

Judy Parfitt Call the Midwife BBC1, 8.15pm Sister Monica Joan is convinced this could be her final yuletide, and that she won't live to see man walk on the moon, as the Apollo 8 crew close in on their lunar orbit mission. The Nonnatus family, including Trixie's brother Geoffrey, decide something must be done to lighten her state of mind, while Cyril intervenes when he discovers a lost soul living alone in a dilapidated basement flat.

F

R T, AN OFFE T INS SH A EC E R

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BBC2

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CHANNEL 5

DIGITAL

6.00 Breakfast. 8.50 The Gruffalo.

(R) 9.15 Film: How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming. (2019) 9.40 The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse. 10.15 Christmas Morning Service from Manchester Cathedral. 11.15 Film: Cinderella.

(2015) 12.55 Film: The Addams Family 2. (2021) 2.20 BBC News; Weather. 2.35 Tabby McTat. 3.00 The King. 3.10 Film: Toy Story 4.

(2019) 4.40 Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special. 5.55 Doctor Who. 6.50 Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel. Rylan Clark, Peter Crouch and Nicole Scherzinger compete for charity.

7.45 Ghosts. In the final episode of the supernatural sitcom, Robin is missing that Christmas feeling.

8.15 Call the Midwife. Sister Monica Joan is convinced this could be her final yuletide.

9.45 EastEnders. It’s wedding day in Albert Square.

10.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas Special. Agnes wants a nice, peaceful Christmas but her family have other ideas.

11.15 BBC News; Weather.

11.35 On Christmas Night.

11.40 The Vicar of Dibley. Festive special from 2004, starring Dawn French. (R) 12.35 Film: Yesterday. (2019) 2.25 Have I Got A Bit More 2023 For You. (R) 3.10 Weather for the Week Ahead. 3.15 BBC News.

6.15 Homes Under the Hammer: Celebrity Special. (R) 7.15 Bargain Hunt: Christmas Special. (R) 8.00 Christmas at St Paul’s. (R) 9.00 Carols from King’s. (R) 10.15 The Highway Rat. 10.40 Wallace & Gromit: A Close Shave. 11.15 Film: Chariots of Fire. (1981) 1.15 Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty.

3.00 The King. 3.10 Film: Death on the Nile. (1978) 5.25 Dad’s Army.

(R) 5.55 The Morecambe and Wise Christmas Show. (R) 7.00 Morecambe and Wise – In Their Own Words. The story of the comedy double act.

(R) 8.00 The Music of Morecambe and Wise. Musical highlights from the duo’s shows.

9.00 Ricky Tomlinson Remembers... The Royle Family. Ricky takes a look back at working on The Royle Family.

9.15 The Royle Family at Christmas. The Royles have surprise guests. (R) 9.55 The Mrs Merton Show. With Kriss Akabusi, Debbie McGee, Chris Greener and Steve Coogan. (R) 10.25 Caroline Aherne: Queen of Comedy.

11.35 The Fast Show: Christmas Special. (R) 12.20 Film: And Now for Something Completely Different.

(1971) 1.45 Film: Sign Zone: Belfast. (2021) 3.20 Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special. (R) 4.35 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Fletchers’ Family Farm at Christmas. (R) 7.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.00 James Martin’s Christmas Day. 2.00 Ainsley’s Festive Flavours. 3.00 The King.

3.10 You’ve Been Framed!

Christmas Crackers. (R) 3.40 ITV News; Weather. 3.45 In for a Penny: Christmas Crackers. 4.30 Film: Sing 2. (2021) 6.30 Emmerdale. Mackenzie is in danger.

7.00 Coronation Street. It’s Christmas Day on the cobbles, and relationship trouble brews for the McDonalds.

7.30 The Masked Singer: Christmas Special. Four famous faces battle it out in a festive special.

9.00 The 1% Club Christmas Special. Lee Mack asks 100 players questions on a festive theme.

10.00 Barry Humphries: The Last Laugh. A profile of the comedy writer and performer.

11.00 ITV News; Weather.

11.15 The King. King Charles makes his second annual address. (R) 11.25 Film: Pitch Perfect 2. (2015) Comedy sequel, starring Anna Kendrick.

1.15 The Jonathan Ross Christmas Show. (R) 2.10 The Real Full Monty: Jingle Balls. (R) 3.25 Gino’s Italian Christmas Feast. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Love Your Garden.

(R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Mynd ar Helfa Arth. (R) 12.30 Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol. (R) 1.30 Carol yr Wyl 2023. (R) 2.30 Cyngherddau Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru 2023: Welsh of the West End. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh.

(R) 6.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

7.00 Pobol y Cwm. 8.00 Gwesty Aduniad.

9.00 Wil ac Aeron: Cowbois Tecsas.

10.00 Noson Lawen. (R) 11.00 Aled Jones a Sêr y Nadolig.

(R) 12.05 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.10 The Simpsons.

(R) 7.30 The Tiger Who Came to Tea. (R) 8.05 Father Christmas. (R) 8.40 Film: Puss in Boots. (2011) 10.25 Film: Kung Fu Panda 2.

(2011) 12.15 The Snowman. (R) 12.50 Mog’s Christmas. (R) 1.25 The Snowman and the Snowdog.

(R) 1.55 The Great Christmas Bake Off 2023. (R) 3.10 Film: The Italian Job. (1969) 5.10 The Alternative Christmas Message.

5.20 Channel 4 News. 5.30 Film: Home Alone. (1990) 7.30 The Festive Pottery Throw Down. 8.45 The Piano at Christmas. 10.00 Film: Forrest Gump. (1994) 12.35 Film: East Is East. (1999) 2.15 Micky Flanagan: Back in the Game.

(R) 3.40 The Alternative Christmas Message. (R) 3.45 The Great Christmas Bake Off 2023. (R) 4.50 Mog’s Christmas. (R) 5.20 Jamie: Keep Cooking at Christmas. 5.506.00 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 8.05 Entertainment News. 8.10 Greatest Family Christmas Hits. (R) 9.05 Britain’s Favourite Christmas Songs. 11.05 Britain’s Favourite 80s Songs. (R) 1.05 Britain’s Favourite Christmas Songs. (R) 3.10 Film: The Wizard of Oz. (1939) Musical fantasy, starring Judy Garland. 5.20 All-Time Favourite ABBA Songs. (R) 6.00 Britain’s Favourite Karaoke Songs. A chance to have your very own karaoke party at home with all the family, as this programme counts down the 30 biggest and best karaoke tunes of all time.

9.00 Britain’s Favourite Party Songs. A celebration of the best-loved dance craze records from across the past 50 years, featuring the likes of the Macarena, Vogue and Agadoo. (R) 10.55 Queen’s Greatest Moments.

The rock band’s career highlights, from their first TV appearances through to Live Aid, and the Oscar-winning biopic. (R) 12.50 Entertainment News. 1.00 Live NFL: Monday Night Football.

San Francisco 49ers v Baltimore Ravens (Kick-off 1.15am). 4.30 Friends. Rachel returns from Greece. (R) 4.55 Entertainment News. 5.05 House Doctor. A Staffordshire couple try to sell their house. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. 5.35 Pip and Posy. (R) 5.45 Thomas & Friends: Big World! Big Adventures! Thomas heads to China. (R)

BBC Four 7.00 Songs of Earth: Storyville 8.30 Inside Classical: The Hound of the Baskervilles 9.50 Miss Marple: Murder at the Vicarage 11.20 Film: West Side Story (1961) Romantic musical, starring Natalie Wood.

ITV2 2.50 Film: Deck the Halls (2006) 4.40 Film: Jumanji (1995) 6.50 Film: Big (1988) Comedy, starring Tom Hanks. 9.00 Film: Bridesmaids (2011) Comedy, starring Kristen Wiig. 11.35 Family Guy ITV3 3.10 Midsomer Murders 5.20 Downton Abbey 7.20 Heartbeat 8.30 Midsomer Murders 10.30 Agatha Christie’s Poirot ITV4 6.15 Film: Battle of Britain (1969) Second World War drama, starring Laurence Olivier. 9.00 Film: The Green Mile (1999) Supernatural drama, starring Tom Hanks.

E4 1.45 Film: The Kid Who Would Be King (2019) 4.05 The Great Christmas Bake Off 2021 5.25 The Snowman 6.00 The Snowman and the Snowdog 6.35 Mog’s Christmas 7.10 Film: Peter Rabbit (2018) Family comedy, with the voice of James Corden. 9.00 Gogglebox Festive Special 10.35 Gogglebox 11.40 The Inbetweeners Film4 3.00 Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief (2010) 5.15 Titanic (1997) 9.00 Fisherman’s Friends (2019) Comedy, starring James Purefoy.

11.15 Arrival (2016)

We’ll buy your property quickly A certain, hassle-free property buying service

We’ll buy any type of property in any condition including: Houses, flats, bungalows, apartment blocks, short leases, inherited, portfolios, HMO’s, land and property in need of modernisation or redevelopment.

✔ Vacant, rented or occupied on any type of agreement: Sitting tenants, assured, regulated, HMO and AST’s. ✔ Confidential house buying service with no “for sale” sign ✔ No selling fees and we pay your legal costs too ✔ A guaranteed sale within your chosen timetable CALL FREE ON

0800 157 7476

email: info@openpropertygroup.com

www.openpropertygroup.com

BOXING DAY TV 26.12.23 CHOICE

Brenda Blethyn Vera ITV, 8pm DCI Stanhope's boss insists that she personally examine an apparent suicide. It's a high-profile case on her home stomping ground of Holy Island, so the advice is for her to proceed discreetly.

Vera soon works out that there is more to Rick Kelasall's death than initially suspected and it quickly turns into a murder investigation.

Listings supplied by PA Media

BBC1

BBC2

ITV1 WALES

S4C

CHANNEL 5

DIGITAL

6.00 Breakfast. 8.55 Tabby McTat. (R) 9.20 The Gruffalo’s Child. (R) 9.50 Film: Pokemon: Detective Pikachu. (2019) 11.25 Film: Abominable. (2019) 12.50 BBC News at One; Weather.

1.05 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

1.15 Film: Beauty and the Beast.

(2017) 3.15 Film: Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. (2021) 4.40 BBC News. 4.55 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 5.05 Film: The Lion King. (2019) 6.50 Charles III: The Coronation Year. An insight into the life of the new monarch, following the first year of his reign as he and Queen Camilla embrace their roles and carry out their new work and duties.

8.25 EastEnders. Walford residents deal with the fallout of Christmas Day. 9.00 Death in Paradise. Featurelength episode. An entrepreneur and family man is found dead in a ravine.

10.30 BBC News; Weather.

10.50 Match of the Day. Action from the Boxing Day matches in the Premier League.

11.55 Doctor Who: Unleashed – The Church on Ruby Road. Behind the scenes on the Christmas special.

(R) 12.25 Film: Crazy Rich Asians.

(2018) 2.20 Blankety Blank Christmas Special. (R) 2.55 Weather for the Week Ahead. 3.00 BBC News.

6.15 Sign Zone: Planet Earth III. (R) 7.15 Bargain Hunt: Christmas Special. (R) 8.00 The Great British Sewing Bee: Celebrity Christmas Special. (R) 9.00 Film: High Society. (1956) 10.45 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 11.45 Bargain Hunt. (R) 12.45 Film: Brief Encounter. (1945) 2.10 The Hairy Bikers’ Bakeation. (R) 2.45 Scrum V Live. Cardiff v Dragons (Kick-off 3.00pm). 5.00 Legends of Welsh Sport: Alan “The Arrow” Evans. (R) 5.30 Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers.

5.45 Dad’s Army. (R) 6.15 Michael Crawford and Michele Dotrice Remember – Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em. (R) 6.45 Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em. A Christmas edition of the sitcom from 1974. (R) 7.30 Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games.

8.00 Only Connect Specials: Boxing.

8.30 Christmas University Challenge.

9.00 Mad About the Boy: The Noël Coward Story.

A profile of the playwright, composer, director, actor and singer.

10.30 Film: The Courier. (2020) Premiere. Fact-based spy drama, starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

12.20 Film: Red Joan. (2018) 1.55 Sign Zone: Doctor Who. (R) 2.55 Imagine. (R) 4.10 Celebrity MasterChef: Christmas Cook-Off 2023. (R) 5.10 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 The Masked Singer: Christmas Special. (R) 7.20 Ainsley’s Festive Flavours. (R) 8.25 James Martin’s Christmas Day. (R) 10.25 Film: The Croods. (2013) 12.15 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 12.30 ITV Racing: Live from Kempton. Coverage from Kempton Park, Wetherby and Aintree. 3.00 Film: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. (1968) 5.45 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars Christmas Special.

6.45 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Emmerdale. Suni urges Amit to tell the truth. Rhona tries to hide her unease.

Aaron is desperate for information.

7.30 Coronation Street. Peter bids farewell to Weatherfield.

8.00 Vera. An apparent suicide on Holy Island sees DCI Vera Stanhope despatched to her home stomping ground to investigate the circumstances. Mystery drama, starring Brenda Blethyn.

10.00 An Audience with Kylie. The singer entertains fans and VIP guests at the Royal Albert Hall. (R) 11.05 ITV News; Weather.

11.25 My Mum, Your Dad. Dating show, hosted by Davina McCall. (R) 12.30 My Mum, Your Dad. (R) 1.25 Shop on TV. 3.00 The Real Full Monty: Jingle Balls. (R) 4.15 Unwind. 5.35 Gino’s Italian Express. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Bwyd Byd Epic Chris. (R) 1.00 Aled Jones a Sêr y Nadolig. (R) 2.00 Cefn Gwlad.

(R) 3.00 Priodas Pum Mil. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Clwb Rygbi.

Scarlets v Ospreys (Kick-off 5.15pm).

7.20 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

7.30 Gatland a’i Garfan: Ffrainc 2023. A look back at Wales’ Rugby World Cup journey.

8.30 Pobol y Cwm. 9.00 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. Elin Fflur chats to chef Bryn Williams.

10.00 Tudur Owen: Go Brin. (R) 11.00 Dai ar y Piste. (R) 12.05 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.00 The Simpsons.

(R) 6.25 Film: Tad the Lost Explorer and the Secret of King Midas. (2017) 7.50 Film: The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie.

(2004) 9.35 The Bear. (R) 10.05 We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. (R) 10.40 Terry Pratchett’s The Abominable Snow Baby. (R) 11.05 Mog’s Christmas. (R) 11.40 Film: Annie. (1982) 2.05 The Piano at Christmas. (R) 3.25 Channel 4 News. 3.30 Film: The Great Escape. (1963) 6.50 Film: Raiders of the Lost Ark. (1981) 9.00 Big Fat Quiz of the Year 2023. 11.00 Gogglebox 2023. (R) 1.00 Film: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

(2014) 2.45 The Festive Pottery Throw Down. (R) 3.45 Extraordinary Escapes at Christmas with Sandi Toksvig. (R) 4.40 Sarah Beeny’s New Life in the Country.

5.10-6.00 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Entertainment News. 9.20 Friends.

(R) 10.25 Film: The Dirty Dozen.

(1967) 1.25 Film: The Glenn Miller Story. (1954) 3.50 Film: Kinky Boots. (2005) 6.00 All Creatures Great and Small: Yorkshire Vet Special. Peter Wright and Shona Searson take a behind-the-scenes look at the All Creatures Great and Small Christmas special. (R) 7.00 World’s Strongest Man 2023. The World Tour Finals. Action from the concluding event of the qualifying tour, held at The OVO Hydro in Glasgow.

8.00 Ronnie Corbett: My 30 Funniest Moments. A celebration of the comedy actor through 30 moments from his career, taking in early film roles, 1960s satire, his double act with Ronnie Barker and solo sitcom appearances.

10.00 The Two Ronnies: In Their Own Words. A celebration of the lives and careers of the comedy duo.

11.55 Film: The Commitments.

(1991) Comedy, starring Robert Arkins.

1.40 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.

3.40 Queen’s Greatest Moments.

(R) 5.20 Friends. (R) 5.40 Pip and Posy. (R) 5.45 Entertainment News. 5.50 Thomas & Friends. (R)

BBC Four 7.00 Madagascar: Earth’s Tropical Islands 8.00 Royal Institution Christmas Lectures 9.00 Digging for Britain: WWII Special 10.00 The Two Ronnies: The Studio Recordings 10.30 Playhouse 11.55 The Vortex ITV2 3.05 Film: Ice Age 2: The Meltdown (2006) 4.55 Film: Matilda (1996) 6.45 Film: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018) 9.00 Film: Pitch Perfect 3 (2017) Comedy sequel, starring Anna Kendrick. 11.00 Family Guy ITV3 3.15 Film: Goodnight Mister Tom (1998) 5.20 Downton Abbey 6.50 Heartbeat 8.00 Agatha Christie’s Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? 11.55 An Audience with Ronnie Corbett ITV4 6.45 Film: Twister (1996) 9.00 Film: The A-Team (2010) Action adventure, starring Liam Neeson.

11.15 English Football League Highlights E4 7.00 Hollyoaks 7.30 Film: Mean Girls (2004) Comedy, starring Lindsay Lohan. 9.30 Gogglebox 10.30 Naked Attraction 11.35 The Inbetweeners Film4 2.50 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008) 4.35 Sister Act (1992) 6.40 A Good Year (2006) Comedy drama, starring Russell Crowe.

9.00 Con Air (1997) Action thriller, starring Nicolas Cage. 11.15 Trading Places (1983)

WEDNESDAY’S TV 27.12.23 CHOICE

David Jonsson Agatha Christie’s Murder Is Easy BBC1, 9pm Mystery thriller, set in 1954.

On a train to London, Fitzwilliam meets Miss Pinkerton, who tells him that a killer is on the loose in the village of Wychwood under Ashe. The villagers believe the deaths are mere accidents, but Miss Pinkerton knows otherwise - and when she's later found dead, Fitzwilliam feels he must find the killer before they can strike again.

F

R T, AN OFFE T INS SH A EC RE

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6.00 Breakfast. 9.10 Match of the Day. (R) 10.15 Film: Trolls.

(2016) 11.40 Film: Spirit Untamed.

(2021) 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.20 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.25 Zog. 1.55 The Snail and the Whale. 2.25 Film: The Croods 2: A New Age. (2020) 3.50 Film: Ghostbusters. (1984) 5.30 Pointless Celebrities. (R) 6.15 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.35 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

6.45 Celebrity Escape to the Country. Janette Manrara and Aljaz Skorjanec search for a new home in rural Cheshire.

7.30 EastEnders. The nightmare continues for the six matriarchs of Albert Square.

8.00 The Repair Shop. Experts fix an electronic sound processor, a dog statue and a doctor’s diploma.

9.00 Agatha Christie’s Murder Is Easy. Siân Ejiwunmi-Le Berre’s adaptation of the novel, set in 1954.

10.00 BBC News at Ten. 10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.30 Imagine: French & Saunders – Pointed, Bitchy, Bitter. A profile of one of the UK’s most successful double acts of the past 40 years.

12.00 French and Saunders Go to the Movies. (R) 12.40 Film: Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie.

(2016) 2.05 The Hit List: Christmas Special. (R) 2.50 Weather for the Week Ahead. 2.55 BBC News.

6.25 Film: Sign Zone: Toy Story 4.

(2019) 7.55 Celebrity Escape to the Country. (R) 8.40 Film: Suspicion. (1941) 10.20 Film: Believe. (2013) 11.50 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 12.50 Bargain Hunt. (R) 1.50 Agatha Christie: Lucy Worsley on the Mystery Queen. (R) 2.50 Film: The Mirror Crack’d. (1980) 4.35 Film: Evil Under the Sun. (1982) 6.30 Weatherman Walking for Children in Need. Derek Brockway walks from Margam to Rest Bay. (R) 7.30 Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games. With Hugh Dennis, Kerry Godliman, Gbemisola Ikumelo and Harry Judd.

8.00 Only Connect Specials: Christmas. Two favourite family teams from previous series return for a Christmas special. (R) 8.30 Christmas University Challenge. The first semifinal of the competition.

9.00 Inside the Factory. New series. Gregg Wallace learns about the manufacturing of Yorkshire puddings.

10.00 Film: The Woman in Black.

(2012) Supernatural horror, starring Daniel Radcliffe.

11.30 Mayfair Witches.

12.10 Mayfair Witches. 12.50 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R) 1.50 The Great British Sewing Bee: Celebrity Christmas Special. (R) 2.50 Secrets of the Aquarium. (R) 3.50 The Secret Genius of Modern Life.

(R) 4.50 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.00 Loose Women. 1.15 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.20 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

1.30 Dickinson’s Biggest and Best Deals. (R) 2.30 Celebrity Catchphrase. (R) 3.30 Lingo. (R) 4.30 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars Christmas Special. (R) 5.30 The Chase Celebrity Christmas Special.

(R) 6.30 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.45 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Emmerdale. Belle forms a new plan. Suni fills Nicky in.

Mary makes a suggestion.

8.00 Coronation Street. Craig follows a lead in order to crack the burglary case, Cassie engineers friction between Abi and Kevin, and Carla gains a new family member.

9.00 Nolly. New series. Biopic of actress Noele Gordon, starring Helena Bonham Carter.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.20 My Mum, Your Dad. The parents work through resentments they are holding onto. (R) 11.15 My Mum, Your Dad. Sparks fly between one of the couples. (R) 12.05 Shop on TV. 3.00 Homeless Families: Our Christmas Crisis – Tonight. (R) 3.25 Made in Britain.

(R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Ainsley’s Festive Flavours. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Pobl a’u Gerddi. (R) 12.30 Welsh Whisperer – Ni’n Teithio Nawr! (R) 1.00 Dai ar y Piste. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Gatland a’i Garfan: Ffrainc 2023. (R) 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Yr Afon. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh.

6.15 Rownd a Rownd. (R) Newyddion S4C. 6.45 Priodas Pum Mil. (R) 7.45 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

8.00 Newyddion y Flwyddyn 2023.

8.25 Colleen Ramsey: Bywyd a Bwyd.

8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

9.00 Gogglebocs Cymru.

10.00 Priodas Pum Mil. (R) 11.00 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 11.35 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.00 The Simpsons.

(R) 7.35 Film: Alvin and the Chipmunks. (2007) 9.20 Film: Dora and the Lost City of Gold.

(2019) 11.20 Channel 4 News Summary. 11.25 Junior Bake Off. (R) 1.00 Film: Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events.

(2004) 3.05 A Place in the Sun. 4.05 Christmas at Liberty. (R) 5.10 Channel 4 News. 5.40 Film: Stardust. (2007) 8.00 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It. 9.00 Grand Designs: The Streets. 10.00 Film: Catch Me If You Can. (2002) 12.45 Film: Predator. (1987) 2.30 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.20 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 4.10 Devon and Cornwall at Christmas. (R) 5.056.05 The Piano at Christmas. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 8.45 Film: Gone with the Wind. (1939) 1.00 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.10 Film: The Dam Busters. (1955) Fact-based Second World War drama, starring Michael Redgrave. 3.50 Film: Where Eagles Dare. (1968) 6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 World’s Strongest Man 2023. Action from heat one at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, as the prestigious annual event got under way.

8.00 Traffic Cops. Police spot a car using fake registration plates that they believe has been used for the getaway in a robbery, while a call comes in about the theft of an expensive 4x4.

9.00 Harry Styles: The Story of My Life. Exploring the global success of Harry Styles through a fan perspective and his beginnings from Cheshire to becoming a worldwide phenomenon.

10.25 Film: Meet the Fockers.

(2004) A hapless groom-tobe faces a new ordeal when he takes his staid prospective in-laws to Florida to meet his eccentric parents. Comedy sequel, with Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro.

1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.

3.15 Friends. (R) 4.05 OMG: Rise of the Insta-Babes. (R) 4.50 Friends. (R) 5.15 House Doctor. (R) 5.35 Entertainment News. 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R) 5.50 Thomas & Friends. (R)

BBC Four 7.00 Borneo: Earth’s Tropical Islands 8.00 Royal Institution Christmas Lectures 9.00 The Magical World of Moss 9.55 Goodness Gracious Me: Christmas Special 10.40 Alison Steadman Remembers – The Singing Detective 10.50 The Singing Detective ITV2 3.50 Film: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) 6.15 Film: Aquaman (2018) 9.00 Film: Wedding Crashers (2005) 11.25 Family Guy ITV3 3.50 Midsomer Murders 5.55 Downton Abbey 6.55 Heartbeat 8.00 Vera 10.00 Law & Order: UK ITV4 3.30 Film: The Longest Day (1962) 7.00 Film: Uncle Buck (1989) 9.00 Film: Central Intelligence (2016) 11.05 Film: Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995) E4 4.00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5.00 The Big Bang Theory 7.00 Hollyoaks 7.30 Film: We Bought a Zoo (2011) Fact-based comedy drama, starring Matt Damon.

10.00 Gogglebox Film4 2.15 Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993) 4.25 The Mask of Zorro (1998) 7.10 Clueless (1995) Comedy, starring Alicia Silverstone.

9.00 Deadpool 2 (2018) Action comedy, starring Ryan Reynolds.

11.20 Man on Fire (2004)

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THURSDAY’S TV 28.12.23 CHOICE

Aretha Franklin Aretha at the BBC BBC2, 11.20pm What better way to spend an evening than in the company of the Queen of Soul? It begins with Respect, the 2021 biographical drama, followed by a collection of her performances from across the BBC archives.

Things kick up a gear with Aretha Franklin in Amsterdam 1968, and her belting concert at the Royal Concertgebouw, before moving on to Aretha Franklin: Duets.

Listings supplied by PA Media

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6.00 Breakfast. 9.00 CBeebies Panto: Robin Hood. (R) 10.05 Film: Trolls World Tour. (2020) 11.30 Film: Inside Out. (2015) 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather.

1.20 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

1.25 Superworm. (R) 1.55 Film: The BFG. (2016) 3.40 Film: Ghostbusters II. (1989) 5.25 Pointless Celebrities. (R) 6.15 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.35 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

6.45 Celebrity Escape to the Country. Christopher Biggins and his partner Neil consider a new home in the rural Home Counties.

7.30 EastEnders. Elaine arrives back from her mini break to the news of the last few days.

8.00 MasterChef: Battle of the Critics 2023. Five restaurant critics compete in the MasterChef kitchen.

9.00 Agatha Christie’s Murder Is Easy. Part two of two. The village is shaken by another death.

10.00 BBC News at Ten. 10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.30 Dawn French Is a Huge Tw*t. The comedy star lays bare the most stupid mistakes of her career.

11.45 Film: I Give It a Year.

(2013) Romantic comedy, with Rose Byrne and Rafe Spall.

1.20 Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel. (R) 2.15 Weather for the Week Ahead. 2.20 BBC News.

6.05 Sign Zone: Tabby McTat. (R) 6.35 My Life at Christmas: Adrian Chiles Meets Martin & Shirlie Kemp. (R) 7.35 Homes Under the Hammer: Celebrity Special. (R) 8.35 Bears About the House. (R) 9.35 Film: Great Expectations.

(1946) 11.30 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 12.30 Agatha Christie: Lucy Worsley on the Mystery Queen. (R) 1.30 Film: Witness for the Prosecution.

(1957) 3.25 Film: Murder on the Orient Express. (1974) 5.30 The Two Ronnies Christmas Sketchbook. (R) 6.00 Britain’s Busiest Mountain: Our Lives. (R) 6.30 Top of the Pops Review of the Year 2023. Clara Amfo looks back over the musical stories and highlights of the year.

7.30 Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games.

8.00 Only Connect Specials: Politics.

8.30 Christmas University Challenge.

9.00 Film: Respect. (2021) Premiere. Biopic of Aretha Franklin, starring Jennifer Hudson.

11.20 Aretha at the BBC. 11.50 Aretha Franklin in Amsterdam 1968.

12.25 Aretha Franklin: Duets. (R) 1.30 Film: Amazing Grace. (2018) 2.55 Sign Zone: Killing Sherlock: Lucy Worsley on the Case of Conan Doyle. (R) 3.55 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. (R) 4.25 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.00 Loose Women. 1.15 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.20 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

1.30 Dickinson’s Biggest and Best Deals. (R) 2.30 Celebrity Catchphrase. (R) 3.30 Lingo. (R) 4.30 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars.

(R) 5.30 The Chase Celebrity Special. With Susan Calman, Dermot Murnaghan, Perri ShakesDrayton and Omid Djalili. (R) 6.30 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.45 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Emmerdale. Belle proposes to Tom with the help of Torvill and Dean. Bear is deflated, and Aaron is irritated.

8.00 The Big Soap Quiz: Coronation Street v Emmerdale. Stephen Mulhern hosts as stars from ITV’s biggest soaps go head to head.

9.00 Nolly. Noele is desperate to know how the Crossroads producers plan to get rid of her.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.15 My Mum, Your Dad. The parents prepare for a school disco-themed party. (R) 11.10 My Mum, Your Dad. The parents take part in a group task that embarrasses their grown-up children. (R) 12.05 Shop on TV. 3.00 Unwind.

3.50 The Royal Variety Performance 2023. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 12.30 Cyngherddau’r Eisteddfod Genedlaethol 2023. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

2.05 Ffit Cymru. (R) 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Gwesty Aduniad. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.15 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) Newyddion S4C. 6.45 Y Fets. Preparations are made for the Cardiganshire Corgi dog show. (R) 7.45 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

8.00 Rownd a Rownd.

8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

9.00 O’r Diwedd 2023.

9.45 Wil ac Aeron: Cowbois Tecsas. Wil Hendreseifion and Aeron Pughe embark on an adventure to Texas. (R) 10.45 Yr Afon. (R) 11.50 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.05 The Simpsons.

(R) 8.10 Film: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.

(2009) 9.50 Film: Aliens in the Attic. (2009) 11.35 Channel 4 News Summary. 11.40 Junior Bake Off. (R) 1.10 Film: The Ten Commandments. (1956) 5.30 Channel 4 News. 6.00 A Place in the Sun. 7.00 The Dog House at Christmas. (R) 8.00 Fur Babies.

9.00 Film: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. (2017) 11.20 Film: The Godfather. (1972) 2.30 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.20 24 Hours in A&E. (R) 4.15 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.05-6.00 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.05 Entertainment News. 9.15 Friends.

(R) 9.40 Film: The Secret Garden.

(1993) 11.45 5 News at Lunchtime.

11.50 Film: Police Academy.

(1984) 1.55 Film: Sherlock Holmes. (2009) 4.40 Film: Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows. (2011) 6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 World’s Strongest Man 2023. Action from heat two at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, as the prestigious annual event continued.

8.00 Britain’s Favourite 70s Sitcoms. A special celebrating the funniest sitcoms of the 1970s, including Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em, The Good Life, and Fawlty Towers.

9.00 The 1970s Dinner Party.

Debbie McGee hosts Johnny Ball, Cheryl Baker, Vicki Michelle and Leee John.

10.00 When 70s TV Goes Horribly Wrong. This two-hour special explores the lessthan-perfect moments from 70’s TV. 12.05 Only Fools and Horses: Secrets & Scandals. (R) 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 London’s Greatest Bridges with Rob Bell. (R) 3.15 Traffic Cops. (R) 4.10 Nick’s Quest. (R) 4.35 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.00 House Doctor. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. 5.35 Pip and Posy. (R) 5.45 Thomas & Friends: Big World! Big Adventures! (R)

BBC Four 7.00 Hawaii: Earth’s Tropical Islands 8.00 Royal Institution Christmas Lectures 9.00 Bob Monkhouse: The Last Stand 10.00 Bob Monkhouse: Talking Comedy 10.30 Film: Nine to Five (1980) ITV2 3.30 Film: Space Jam (1996) 5.15 Film: Ice Age (2002) 6.55 Film: Johnny English Reborn (2011) Spy comedy sequel, starring Rowan Atkinson. 9.00 Film: Knocked Up (2007) Romantic comedy, starring Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl.

11.35 Family Guy ITV3 3.35 Midsomer Murders 5.40 Downton Abbey 6.50 Heartbeat 8.00 Lewis 10.00 Law & Order: UK ITV4 3.35 Film: A Bridge Too Far (1977) 7.10 Film: Smokey and the Bandit (1977) Comedy, starring Burt Reynolds and Jackie Gleason. 9.00 Film: The Mummy (2017) 11.15 All Elite Wrestling: Rampage E4 4.00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5.00 The Big Bang Theory 7.00 Hollyoaks 7.30 Film: The Addams Family (1991) Black comedy, starring Anjelica Huston. 9.30 Gogglebox 11.40 Film: Gemini Man (2019) Film4 3.40 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009) 6.35 Star Trek (2009) Sci-fi adventure, starring Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto. 9.00 Inside Man (2006) Thriller, starring Denzel Washington and Clive Owen. 11.40 Collateral (2004)

FRIDAY’S TV 29.12.23 CHOICE

Iwan Rheon Men Up BBC1, 9pm Drama inspired by the true story of one of the world's first medical trials for the drug that would later become Viagra. A group of men rise to the challenge to reclaim their sex lives and rediscover a romantic connection in their lives, but as the drug brings them hope, the men realise the hard work has only just begun as the trial takes them to some very unexpected places.

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6.00 Breakfast. 9.00 Film: The Good Dinosaur. (2015) 10.30 Dodger. (R) 11.25 Film: Big Hero 6. (2014) 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.20 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.25 Quentin Blake’s Box of Treasures.

(R) 1.55 Film: Trolls Holiday in Harmony. (2021) 2.15 Film: The Book of Life. (2014) 3.45 Film: Alice Through the Looking Glass. (2016) 5.30 Pointless Celebrities. (R) 6.15 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.35 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

6.45 Celebrity Escape to the Country. Alistair Appleton is joined by TV presenter Cheryl Baker and her husband. Last in the series.

7.30 EastEnders. Elaine sets out a plan to bring the Walford residents together.

8.00 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop. A trawl through the archives finds some Welsh musical Christmas crackers.

(R) 8.30 Would I Lie to You? 9.00 Men Up. Drama based on the story of the first medical trials for Viagra.

10.30 BBC News at Ten. 10.55 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

11.00 Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas Special. (R) 11.30 Not Going Out Christmas Special. (R) 12.10 Film: Game Night. (2018) 1.45 The Weakest Link: Christmas Special. (R) 2.35 Weather for the Week Ahead. 2.40 BBC News.

6.10 A Vicar’s Life. (R) 6.40 Film: Sign Zone: The Lion King.

(2019) 8.30 Bears About the House. (R) 9.30 Film: School for Scoundrels. (1960) 11.00 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 12.00 Planet Earth: A Monkey’s Tale. (R) 12.15 Agatha Christie: Lucy Worsley on the Mystery Queen. (R) 1.15 Film: Hello, Dolly!

(1969) 3.35 Film: Funny Girl.

(1968) 6.00 One Man and His Island – Our Lives. The ex-aircraft engineer, now the warden of a remote island between England and Wales. (R) 6.30 Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games.

7.00 Only Connect: Christmas Special. (R) 7.30 Christmas University Challenge.

8.00 Gardeners’ World Winter Specials. Frances Tophill reports from Wildside Garden in Devon. Last in the series.

9.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Hogmanay Fishing.

Bob and Paul fish for salmon in the rivers Dee, Tay and Ericht.

10.00 The Kemps: All Gold.

11.00 Film: For a Few Dollars More. (1965) Western sequel, starring Clint Eastwood.

1.10 Sign Zone: Panorama. (R) 1.40 Julius Caesar: The Making of a Dictator. (R) 2.40 Union with David Olusoga. (R) 3.40 Gardeners’ World. (R) 4.40 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.00 Loose Women. 1.15 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.20 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

1.30 James Martin’s American Adventure. (R) 2.00 Dickinson’s Biggest and Best Deals. (R) 3.00 Celebrity Catchphrase. (R) 4.00 Lingo. (R) 5.00 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars. (R) 6.00 The Chase Celebrity Special. With Ruth Davidson, Mark King, Ferne McCann and Dan Walker. (R) 7.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

7.15 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Tom presents Belle with his mum’s ring.

8.00 Coronation Street. Jenny and Daisy celebrate reclaiming the Rovers.

9.00 Nolly. Noele returns to the stage in one of theatre’s hardest roles. Last in the series.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.20 The Real Nolly.

Documentary about Noele Gordon, narrated by Helena Bonham Carter.

11.15 My Mum, Your Dad. The children are thrilled when sparks fly between two parents. (R) 12.05 My Mum, Your Dad. (R) 12.55 Shop on TV. 3.00 Fletchers’ Family Farm at Christmas. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Beautiful Baking with Juliet Sear. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Sain Ffagan.

(R) 12.30 Newyddion y Flwyddyn 2023. (R) 1.00 Wil ac Aeron: Gwlad y Ceirw. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Noson Lawen. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh.

(R) 6.15 Rownd a Rownd. Rhys and Trystan’s wedding day dawns. (R) 7.15 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

News and weather.

7.30 Dathlu Dewrder 2023. A celebration of the bravery of Wales’ special heroes.

8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

News and weather.

9.00 Siân Phillips yn 90.

Documentary looking at the life and career of actress Siân Phillips.

10.15 Ceffylau, Sheikhs a Chowbois. (R) 10.45 Pren ar y Bryn. (R) 12.00 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.00 The Simpsons.

(R) 7.40 Film: Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked. (2011) 9.20 Film: Barnyard. (2006) 11.05 Channel 4 News Summary. 11.10 Junior Bake Off. (R) 12.45 Film: Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

(1977) 3.25 Film: Planes, Trains and Automobiles. (1987) 5.15 Channel 4 News. 5.40 Film: Hidden Figures. (2016) 8.00 Film: Cast Away. (2000) 10.45 Film: The Godfather Part II. (1974) 2.25 Film: Petite Maman. (2021) 3.40 Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.50-6.00 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 8.45 Entertainment News. 8.50 Film: Out of Africa. (1985) 11.55 5 News at Lunchtime. 12.00 Live: Snooker 900. Coverage of the Seniors 900 event. 5.00 Dinosaur with Stephen Fry. 6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 World’s Strongest Man 2023. Action from heat three at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, as the prestigious annual event continued.

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Jane McDonald’s Highland Fling. Returning to her Scottish roots, Jane McDonald starts her journey in Edinburgh, enjoying the sights and sounds at the city’s Christmas market. (R) 9.00 Dolly Parton: In Her Own Words. America’s queen of country music guides viewers through her acclaimed career, the latest chapter of which is her album Rockstar, Dolly’s first rock ’n’ roll LP. 10.30 A Very Country Music Christmas. A selection of festive country songs. (R) 12.25 Dolly, Kenny & Friends: Greatest Hits. (R) 1.20 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.20 Britain’s Great Cathedrals with Tony Robinson. (R) 4.10 Great Artists.

(R) 4.40 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. 5.40 Pip and Posy. (R) 5.45 Thomas & Friends: Big World! Big Adventures! (R)

BBC Four 7.00 Top of the Pops 7.50 Frank Sinatra in Concert at the Royal Festival Hall 8.45 Frank Sinatra: The Voice of the Century – Arena Special 10.20 Frank Sinatra: A Man and His Music + Ella + Jobim 11.10 Film: High Society (1956) ITV2 3.10 Film: Stuart Little 2 (2002) 4.55 Film: Ice Age 2: The Meltdown (2006) 6.45 Film: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018) 9.00 Film: There’s Something About Mary (1998) 11.25 Family Guy ITV3 3.50 Midsomer Murders 5.50 Downton Abbey 6.50 Heartbeat 8.00 Doc Martin 10.00 Law & Order: UK ITV4 4.00 Film: Battle of Britain (1969) 6.45 Film: Twister (1996) 9.00 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite 11.05 Film: The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) E4 4.00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5.00 The Big Bang Theory 7.00 Hollyoaks 7.30 Film: Addams Family Values (1993) Comedy sequel, starring Anjelica Huston and Raul Julia.

9.20 Gogglebox 11.25 Naked Attraction Film4 3.20 Little Women (2019) 6.05 Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011) Sci-fi adventure sequel, starring Shia LaBeouf. 9.00 A Quiet Place Part II (2020) Horror sequel, starring Emily Blunt. 10.50 Alone (2020)

I thought I was using a satisfactory light.

I cannot believe the difference.

Mr Murden | Lancashire

Finding it a strain to read small print?

The Compact Light sheds a better light so readers can see fine detail more clearly.

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In a heartwarming display of Christmas cheer, over 200 tractor enthusiasts in Pembrokeshire brought a touch of Christmas magic to their community with an annual charity run.

The parade, beginning at the Clarbeston Road football field, meandered through villages, illuminated the streets of Haverfordwest, and passed by Withybush Hospital before concluding at the Haverfordwest showground on a Saturday night.

Organised by Pippa and Thomas Bevan, the event celebrated the joy of the season. Pippa Bevan expressed her appreciation, stating, “What a night last night! Thank you to all the tractor drivers who decorated their tractors with such effort. They all looked amazing! Diolch yn fawr iawn!”

The success of the event was attributed to a committed team of stewards and the support of Clarbeston Road AFC and the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society.

The funds raised from the parade will benefit The Catrin Vaughan Foundation, Wales Air Ambulance, Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity, and Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal in memory of Nia James.

Acknowledging the generous contributions, Pippa and Thomas thanked all those involved, including Dyfed-Powys Police for ensuring a smooth passage through Haverfordwest.

The best-dressed tractors were judged by Ros and Mansel Raymond, with Rachel and Nigel Williams of Parc y Marl taking the first prize, followed by Richard Lee and Grace Fearon.

Special thanks

were extended to Tom TCW Engineering and Communic8 for their support. Delme “Delboy” Harries, who played Santa, received recognition for his festive performance.

As the parade moved through Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire Attractions and Llaeth Preseli Milk & Gelato provided refreshments.

Gratitude was expressed for those who collected donations along the route.

In the spirit of the season, Pippa and Thomas Bevan extended warm wishes, saying, “Thank you to everyone!

Merry Christmas and a happy new year! Let’s do it all again next year, shall we Thomas Bevan?

Provisional date Saturday 21st December 2024.”

The Pembrokeshire community looks forward to more festive tractor parades in the years to come.

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HOROSCOPES The Lucky Signs This Week: Aquarius, Pisces and Aries

ARIES You’ll dream of escaping the cold of winter and putting your feet in the warm sands of the tropics while the sun shines down on you. You could even take this opportunity to embark on a spiritual journey.

TAURUS It doesn’t take much to move you. You must make some changes to get back to enjoying yourself.

Taking part in festivities could help you to smile again. Don’t refuse an invitation.

GEMINI It’s It impossible to please everyone, no matter how hard you try or how much you compromise. You must weigh the pros and cons. At work and elsewhere, it may be necessary to take a more diplomatic approach in certain situations.

WATCH T E TRAH ILER HERE !

GAMING GAMING With eddie the game guru

CANCER You’ll be extremely efficient this week and get everything done — whether at work or home decorating for Christmas. You’ll pay attention to the small details so that everything in your home is perfect.

LEO You’ll be put on a pedestal for performing a remarkable heroic deed. You may involuntarily participate in an activity. In return, you’ll receive a reward or at least some form of recognition.

VIRGO You may have to change your holiday plans at the last minute and you’ll have to swap your decorations. You may also want to take some time to focus on a particular family member.

LIBRA You may be considering treating yourself to a new car as a Christmas present. You’ll be on the move this week. You’ll have a lot of errands to run and a lot of details to manage.

SCORPIO Spoil yourself and your family this festive season.

There may be a system failure when it comes to paying your bills online. This week, you need your partner to be sensitive and take care of you.

Alright, brace yourselves, comrades, for I’ve ventured into the Metaverse with the Meta Quest 3, and let me tell you, it’s a trip down the rabbit hole that’s making even the most hardened reality junkies question their grip on sanity.

When this bad boy first hit the shelves, it was like, “Hey, where’s the mind-bending, next-gen goodness we were promised?” But fear not, fellow seekers of the virtual unknown, because things have taken a turn for the mesmerizing.

Now, in the sacred month of October, the Meta Quest 3 has unfolded its wings, and we’re witnessing existing titles sprouting enhancements like mushrooms after a heavy rain.

Picture this: enhanced graphics that can make your grandma’s lasagna look like a kindergarten finger painting and mixedreality features that’ll have you questioning whether you’re living in a simulation or not.

And oh, the post-launch releases! From the rhythmic carnival of Samba de Amigo:

Virtual Party to the paranormal chaos of Ghostbusters: Rise of the Ghost Lord, we’re swimming in a sea of digital delights. If you were worried about finding excuses to plunge into the rabbit hole, worry no more. The Meta Quest 3 has got your back.

Now, let’s talk about some heavy hitters making waves in the virtual cosmos. Assassin’s Creed Nexus, Asgard’s Wrath 2, Stranger Things VR, and Lego Bricktales – these aren’t just games; they’re passports to realms that defy the very laws of reality. Pack your bags, because it looks like we won’t be leaving the digital realm anytime soon.

But wait, my fellow wanderers, let me shine a light on a gem that’s been polished to perfection on the Meta Quest 3 – The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners. If you thought the Meta Quest 2 was a visual feast, brace yourself for a banquet of undead proportions. Crisper details, character models that could give Hollywood a run for its money, and textures so high-res, you’ll want to touch them (but don’t,

AVAILABLE NOW!

because VR). And let’s not forget the frame rate – peppier than a squirrel on caffeine.

The pièce de résistance? The lighting. It’s not just lighting; it’s a damn symphony of shadows and illumination effects that make those rotting zombies look almost... beautiful. Almost. This isn’t your average stroll through the park; it’s a first-person action-adventure that will haunt your dreams. Visceral combat, scavenging for resources, and survival elements that’ll make Bear Grylls blush – this game is like a rollercoaster of adrenaline, and the console-like presentation ensures you’ll be donning that headset until the dawn breaks.

So, my friends, whether you’re a seasoned traveler in the virtual realms or a newbie looking to dip your toes into the mind-bending waters, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners on Meta Quest 3 is your golden ticket. Strap in, hold on tight, and prepare to lose yourself in a world where reality is just a distant memory.

SAGITTARIUS Even though the shortest day of the year is fast approaching, you’ll find new ways to boost your energy. You’ll be asked to participate in several activities to break up the boredom. You could even consider a trip to celebrate.

CAPRICORN Maintain your sense of harmony by avoiding constant exposure to current events through the media. Instead, read a fun book or an entertaining TV series. It’ll make you feel lighter and more serene.

AQUARIUS You’ll help bring together many people, but you may find yourself among individuals you don’t feel very comfortable with. Remember to check up on your social network contacts to stay connected.

PISCES You’ll oversee organizing everything for the holidays. You still have many tasks to complete before the end of the year, and time is running out.

Certain relationships will drain your energy.

newyddion 49

Friday December 22nd 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

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MAE Lleucu Williams, un o raddedigion y cwrs BA Dylunio a Chynhyrchu Set o Brifysgol Cymru y Drindod Dewi Sant wrthi’n brysur yn gweithio fel Goruchwylwraig Gwisgoedd a Rheolwr Llwyfan Cynorthwyol ar daith gyda Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru ar ei sioe diweddara’, ‘Swyn’ sydd ar daith ar hyn o bryd.

Sioe theatr ddawns yw ‘Swyn’ sy’n plethu’r iaith Gymraeg gyda BSL. Mae’r sioe yn adrodd hanes merch fach sydd yn caru bob dim am fyd natur, ond yn gweld hi’n anodd cysylltu gyda phobl eraill.

Trwy antur, mae Swyn yn creu ffrindiau a chysylltiadau gyda anifeiliaid, ac yn dysgu sut i fod yn ffrind da. Mae ‘Swyn’ yn sioe hyfryd ar gyfer plant o dan 7 mlwydd oed, ac mae’n gyfle arbennig i nifer o blant gael y profiad o wylio sioe mewn theatr am y tro cyntaf erioed.

Meddai Lleucu: “Mae’n deimlad gwych

i weithio gyda Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru ar y cynhyrchiad hwn. Dwi’n ffodus i fedru dweud mai Swyn ydy fy ail sioe gyda’r cwmni.

“Cyn gweithio ar y sioe yma, roeddwn yn Oruchwylwraig Gwisgoedd ar y sioe Rhinoseros, yn sicr roedd Rhinoseros yn sioe heriol fel fy swydd gyntaf tu allan o’r Brifysgol. Ond mi wnes fwynhau bob eiliad o’r broses a’r daith.”

Ers yn blentyn, mae Lleucu wedi bod wrth ei bodd gyda bob agwedd o’r theatr, ond doedd hi byth yn meddwl y byddai rhyw ddydd yn gweithio o fewn y diwydiant, ac wrth i un penderfyniad arwain at y llall dros y blynyddoedd, fe benderfynodd ddod i astudio yng Nghaerfyrddin.

Roedd hi’n dymuno aros yng Nghymru i astudio, fel ei bod hi’n medru rhwydweithio a meithrin perthynas gyda theatrau lleol. Roedd y ffaith bod Canolfan S4C Yr Egin a’r Llwyfan ar dir y Brifysgol yn apelio’n

fawr iawn ati.

Ychwanegodd: “Pan gychwynais yn y Brifysgol doeddwn ddim yn gwybod dim byd am derminoleg theatr, y math o rolau gwahanol, na’r broses o roi sioe at ei gilydd.

“Roedd popeth a ddysgais yn y Brifysgol a’r holl gyfleoedd a gefais i gyd wedi fy helpu i gyflawni fy rôl a gweithio gyda chwmni proffesiynol.”

Yn ystod ei chyfnod yn y Brifysgol, cafodd Lleucu nifer o brofiadau i’w helpu i ddod i adnabod y diwydiant yn well.

Pan roedd Lleucu yn ei hail flwyddyn yn y Brifysgol, cafodd y cyfle i gydweithio gyda chriw WAVDA ar gampws Caerdydd i ddylunio tair sioe gyda dwy arall o’r cwrs, ac yna yn ystod ei thrydedd flwyddyn cafodd ei galw’n ôl i’w helpu, ond y tro hyn fel unigolyn.

Dywedodd: “Roedd dylunio sioeau WAVDA yn gyfle i weithio gyda unigolion proffesiynol o’r diwydiant a medru gweld sioe yn dod at ei gilydd

am y tro cyntaf.”

Yn ystod ei thrydedd flwyddyn hefyd cafodd Lleucu’r cyfle i gysgodi rheolwyr llwyfan o’r cynhyrchiad ‘Pijin’ pan ddaeth Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru i ymarfer yn Y Llwyfan ar y campws. Meddai “Trwy’r profiad yma cefais y cyfle i weithio gyda’r Theatr Gen ar Rhinoseros yn y lle cyntaf.

Mi fyddwn yn cynghori unrhyw fyfyriwr i gymeryd bob profiad a chyfle sydd ar gael tra’n y Brifysgol, ac i rhydweithio gyda chwmnïoedd gwahanol.”

Pan roedd Lleucu’n fyfyrwraig, sylweddolodd ei bod wedi magu hunan hyder a datblygu’n sylweddol fel unigolyn.

Roedd yn ddiolchgar i’w darlithwyr am eu cefnogaeth cyson hefyd, gan: “Roeddent o hyd yn trio cael y gora ohonom ac o hyd yn cynnig profiadau newydd.”

Dywedodd Stacey – Jo Atkinson, darlithydd BA Dylunio a Chynhyrchu Set o’r Drindod Dewi Sant: “Dyma’r rhan orau o’r swydd, gweld

NEWYDDION

Graddedig yn ddiolchgar am ddysgu drwy’r Gymraeg

ein myfyrwyr a’n graddedigion yn llwyddo yn y diwydiannau creadigol.

“Un o agweddau allweddol y radd yw sicrhau ein bod yn darparu amrywiaeth o sgiliau a chyfleoedd diwydiant i’n myfyrwyr er mwyn iddynt ddod o hyd i’w llwybr a’u hangerdd dewisol.

“Mae’n bleser gweld cymaint o’n myfyrwyr, graddedigion a dysgwyr Cymraeg yn aros yng Nghymru ac yn mynd ymlaen i weithio mewn theatr iaith Gymraeg.

Yn fwy diweddar, mae gennym dri o raddedigion yn gweithio i Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, a dim ond un ohonynt sy’n siarad Cymraeg yn rhugl, sef Lleucu, gyda’r lleill wedi dod o Rydychen a Chanada.

“Rydym yn parhau i hyrwyddo cyfleoedd yr iaith Gymraeg a theatr Gymraeg o fewn y cwrs.”

Wrth i yrfa Lleucu barhau i ddatblygu, mae’n gobeithio cydweithio gyda mwy o gwmnïoedd theatr yng Ngogledd Cymru.

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Sheep farmers to help Farming Connect create EBV for methane yield

FARMING

WELSH farmers could soon have the option to breed sheep with a naturally low carbon footprint thanks to a new Farming Connect project with ambition to create an estimated breeding value (EBV) for methane yield.

Emissions from lambs in flocks involved in Farming Connect’s Welsh Sheep Genetics Project are being measured with portable accumulation chambers.

It is just one element of several linked to genetics that the programme will investigate over the next two years to help farmers strengthen flock performance, improve productivity and increase profitability, but an important one, says Heledd Dancer, Farming Connect’s Sheep Genetics Officer for Mid Wales, as it will give farmers the opportunity to select animals which genetically produce less methane.

This will help farmers assess and change their breeding programme and system to select sheep with lower methane emissions,

enabling them to lower the carbon footprint of their flock and farm as well as contributing as an industry to reducing the overall environmental impact of methane emissions.

“We are giving farmers the unique opportunity to develop this EBV with us,’’ says Heledd.

“We know that sheep produce methane and we know there is a relationship between factors like gut size, so the intention is to figure out which animals in

their flock can contribute to reducing methane emissions.’’

The chambers allow measurements to be taken from up to 12 sheep at a time – this will be done by Aberystwythbased Innovis, who is working in conjunction with Farming Connect on this project; to allow for consistency, those sheep will be kept on the same grazing regime for the previous three weeks.

As methane yield is a heritable trait, measurements will be

taken from lambs that have been produced by a variety of sires.

The project aims to take measurements from over 1000 lambs over a two-year period.

Gwawr Williams, Head of Sheep Genetics at Farming Connect, said this number is sufficient to develop a usable EBV for methane yield.

“It would also be sufficient to give us a good estimate of heritability within the population, for which we usually consider 900-

1000 animals to be the minimum,’’ she says.

There is good evidence that sheep with lower methane yields have a lower reticulorumen volume therefore the project will also utilise CT scanning to obtain accurate measures of reticulorumen dimensions in the live animal.

“It is vital that we understand changes in reticulorumen volume that may be associated with breeding sheep with a lower methane yield so that we can ensure there are no unintended consequences in terms of the sheep’s ability to utilise low quality forages,’’ says Gwawr.

There are now over a hundred flocks involved in the Welsh Sheep Genetics Programme within two tiers, which also includes flocks which transitioned over from Hybu Cig Cymru’s Hill Ram Scheme.

Tier 1 is specific to hill and upland breeds while Tier 2 is for maternal breeds including the Blue Faced Leicester, Lleyn, Romney and Charmoise Hill.

51

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52

Friday December 22nd 2023 For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

WG consults on its Sustainable Farming Scheme • •

Unions concerned at lack of funding • Kurtz and Gruffydd hit out at proposals Minister says farmers must tackle climate emergency

THE WELSH G O V E R N M E N T ’s consultation on its controversial Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) opened on Thursday, December 14.

Labour ministers want the Scheme to replace existing farming subsidy programmes.

The SFS will also cut the amount of land available for farming and is part of the Labour Government’s push to force livestock farmers off the land.

LABOUR MINISTER’S WORDS HIDE THE TRUTH The Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths MS, claims the Scheme will secure food production systems, keep farmers farming the land, safeguard the environment, and address the urgent call of the climate and nature emergencies.

She also claims the Scheme will help farmers become more efficient and resilient, enabling them

to respond to “changing consumer demands” and “compete in a decarbonising global economy”.

Lesley Griffiths explained the SFS: “We face many challenges, including a difficult financial landscape, climate and nature emergencies, and their profound impact on our vital food production.

“The urgency of the climate and nature emergency cannot be overstated. We have seen first-hand the impact of extreme weather patterns, such as drought and floods, on farming. The frequency of these events will only increase. They are the biggest threat to sustainable food production.

“That is why we must ensure future support for the industry addresses this issue, so Wales’ farmers are resilient and able to continue to produce food sustainably.

“To be resilient and sustainable means to be able to adapt to new evidence, new priorities and new challenges.

The Scheme has been designed to provide a clear

long-term structure with which we can all become familiar, but one which continues to evolve in a changing world.”

The consultation closes on March 7. The consultation documents can be found here: https://www.gov.wales/ sustainable-farming-schemeconsultation The link to the online consultation is here: https:// www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ G0WBDE/ A BRAVE NEW WORLD The Welsh Government’s consultation document omits any mention of funding for the SFS and the amount of funding offered to farmers who engage with it.

In addition, a Welsh Government document detailing Phase Four of the Scheme outlines the Welsh Government’s ultimate aim of reducing the number of cattle farmed in Wales by 122,000. It also suggests that subsidies for sheep farming should depend on the flocks’ role in maintaining the Welsh

landscape.

The Welsh Government’s unending failure to tackle Bovine TB means the proposals could reduce the size of Wales’s beef and dairy herd by 25% within a decade.

That would further support the Welsh Government’s climate change policies about changing the public’s diet. It also explains the Welsh Government’s refusal to consider stronger public procurement policies to buy food produced on Welsh farms or entertain a Food Bill that would place statutory obligations on the Welsh Government regarding food production and security.

The Welsh Government’s brave new world imagines people eating less homereared meat, eating only seasonal vegetables, and probably -weaving in and out of its National Forest foraging for nuts and mushrooms.

Human nature is what it is.

People will continue eating what they want, not what the Welsh Government

thinks they should want. The chief difference the SFS will make is that those foods will be imported. They will be produced to lower animal welfare standards, potentially hormone and drug-enhanced, and have a much larger carbon footprint than Welsh pasture-fed sheepmeat and beef.

The underlying problem with the Welsh Government’s methodology is that the international data it relies upon depends on the outcomes and outputs of intensive cattle and sheep farming systems alien to Wales.

PEMBROKESHIRE FARMER SHARES SFS CONCERNS Bryn Perry, a member of the Nature-Friendly Farming Network and a tenant on a council-owned farm in Pembrokeshire where he runs a sheep micro-dairy, said: “The SFS has the opportunity to benefit naturefriendly farming positively if it’s delivered correctly and the

right support is put in place.

“The Welsh Government needs to get behind agriculture, but at the moment, it feels like the SFS’ approach will be more of a stick than a carrot.

“I would like to see it benefit young farmers and new entrants. Capital support is badly needed to support people who need to get the equipment together to start their farming journey.

“Starting out in agriculture is very expensive, and the shopping list quickly adds up.

“Livestock need a handling system and a trailer to move them around; electric fencing is vital for rotational grazing; you might need infrastructure to house the animals, and a tractor helps move equipment.

“Anything that would assist new farmers with infrastructure costs would be beneficial.”

The SFS contains no new capital support for farmers.

CONCERN OVER “ARBITRARY”

FARMING 53

Friday December 22nd 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

TREE PLANTING TARGET Plaid Cymru’s Rural Affairs spokesperson, Llyr Gruffydd MS, expressed its continued concern over the 10% tree cover proposals outlined in the consultation.

Although he welcomed some changes to aspects of the proposed Scheme, Mr Gruffydd warned the Government’s continued commitment to the arbitrary 10% figure for tree planting is a mistake that would prove unworkable and unviable for many farm businesses.

Llyr Gruffydd said: “This latest consultation on the Sustainable Farming Scheme shows some positive changes, including proposals we in Plaid Cymru have been arguing for. These include a longer-term transition period, a commitment to stability payments, and greater acknowledgement of tenant farmers’ circumstances.

“We still have fundamental concerns about Labour’s stance on the arbitrary 10% tree cover proposal. We’ve been consistent on this since the start. We recognise that the Government finally accepts that exemption is possible under certain circumstances. However, it doesn’t go far enough. As it stands, the Scheme remains unworkable and unviable for many farm businesses.

“I challenged the Minister about how farmers will be compensated for any devaluation of their land due to tree planting. She failed to answer.

“If this isn’t addressed, it will drive farmers away from entering the Scheme, undermining what it could achieve.

“It’s also disappointing that the Minister still cannot provide details on the Scheme’s budget and payment rates.

Without this information, providing

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a meaningful response on how the different proposed actions will affect the industry is difficult.

“These proposals will introduce the biggest change to farm support seen in Wales in a generation. I urge everyone to make their voice heard by responding to the consultation.”

AMBITIONS MUST BE MATCHED WITH FUNDING The Welsh Conservative Shadow Rural Affairs Minister, Samuel Kurtz MS, said: “The Sustainable Farming Scheme will be the single largest change to agricultural support in Wales for decades, so it must be thought through properly and deliverable for our farmers.

“Sadly, the lack of financial detail is conspicuous in its absence.

“As with all Welsh Government consultations, I hope this isn’t simply a boxticking exercise. They must listen to farmers’ views to ensure this Scheme delivers for our food producers and our environment.”

Sam Kurtz concluded: “The Scheme must be backed up with a sufficient budget.

If it isn’t, that will be a failure by this Welsh Government to support our farmers.”

UNCERTAINTY COULD UNDERMINE SCHEME NFU Cymru says the outcomes the Welsh Government wants the Scheme to deliver can only be delivered if universal actions are truly universal, practical and achievable for all farmers in Wales: in sectors, locations, land tenure and type. ­­­­­­­­NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “NFU Cymru has consistently highlighted the need to ensure that support must be targeted at active farmers, the people

and businesses taking the risks associated with food production. We must carefully consider the proposals to ensure they work for all farmers, including tenants and commoners.

“With appropriate levels of funding, the Welsh Government can be confident that Welsh farming will be in a position to support the delivery of ambitions for net zero and nature alongside the production of climate-friendly food. Welsh Government can also be confident of a return of £9 for every £1 invested in farming – vital employment in our rural communities and the food and drink supply chain – Wales’ biggest employer.

“The proposals allow farmers to see what they will be expected to deliver as universal actions in the universal layer in return for the universal baseline payment.

However, farmers will be frustrated by the absence of any information on the levels of funding attached to these actions. It remains impossible for farming families to consider how the Scheme will support their farming businesses in the future.

“Previous Welsh Government SFS consultations have committed to providing a fair and stable income to Welsh farmers going beyond costs incurred, income forgone calculations.

“I am, therefore, concerned that this latest consultation rows back on this commitment. It is difficult to see how the Scheme will be able to deliver the same level of stability for farm businesses, the supply chain and our rural communities as the current arrangements do.

“Without a long-term commitment from the Welsh Government to a stability payment, Welsh farmers will be unable to deliver on our economic, environmental, social and cultural ambitions.”

SFS MUST BE PRACTICAL FOR ALL FARMERS FUW President Ian Rickman said: “We have repeatedly consulted with our members on several versions of this Scheme since 2018.

We are now at its most critical development stage.

“While we have been successful in lobbying for certain crucial changes to the scheme since its inception, including the provision of a baseline payment, some significant barriers and questions around certain details remain.”

When it responded to the initial Brexit and Our Land Consultation, the FUW maintained that any future payment scheme based on environmental and public goods outcomes must also protect family farms.

It said doing so will support rural communities and Welsh Jobs and ensure agriculture is both sustainable and rewarding. Failure to do so would most likely lead to serious damage to Wales’ family farms and their role in Wales’ economy, society, culture and landscape.

Mr Rickman continued: “Those policy priorities underpin our key asks concerning the Sustainable Farming Scheme.

“It must be practical for all farmers in Wales and deliver on our economic, environmental and social sustainability.

“We will thoroughly dissect the consultation document and discuss its proposals with members.

“The consultation outlines the most important change to Welsh agricultural policy since the genesis of the Common Agricultural Policy in 1962. I urge every member to engage and contribute to the Union’s response.”

It’s the week before Christmas and at our county offices across Wales, Union staff and officials alike, are busy putting the finishing touches on the last jobs of the year.

December has been anything but quiet, with our teams representing the Union in London, Cardiff and local marts alike.

It would be a missed opportunity not to mention the outstanding success Montgomeryshire Day was for the FUW at the beginning of this month, as it took the farming story right into the heart of the UK Government and saw our elected officials, County and National, meet with the Prime Minister.

News of Mark Drakeford providing a timetable for his retirement as Welsh Labour Leader was not a shock as such and we wish him well in his future endeavours.

However, our demands to maintain the Rural Affairs budget for 2024/25 still stand and we will be making that case to Welsh Government regardless of who becomes the new First Minister here in Wales. Whilst we recognise the challenges that the Welsh Government must contend with, let’s remember that the entire budget for the Rural Affairs Department is a modest £482 million

which represents just 2% of the overall Welsh Government Budget. It is of vital importance that this budget is, as a minimum, maintained to ensure that our obligations and ambitions in relation to food, nature and climate are achieved.

The other big news of course is the long awaited announcement on the final consultation in relation to the Sustainable Farming Scheme. This new scheme will bring in the most significant change to Welsh agricultural policy since the genesis of the Common Agricultural Policy in 1962.

We have repeatedly consulted with our members on several versions of this scheme since 2018 and are now at the most critical stage of its development.

The FUW can’t stress enough how important it is that members engage with us on this consultation in the new year. Details of information evenings will be released soon and I encourage everyone to ensure they make their voice heard on these proposals.

The next year will no doubt be a busy one for us all, so on a final note for this week - have a Merry Christmas, enjoy some glorious Welsh food over Christmas and stay safe.

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PETS CORNER

Death of a dog ‘hits harder than a relative’

DOG owners in Wales have been left more distressed by the death of their beloved pet, than that of a relative, according to a new survey.

Research by Cliverton, specialist insurance supplier for animal related trades, found that almost threequarters (74 per cent) of owners surveyed said the emotional upset at the loss was greater than that experienced when a family member dies.

And so deep is the trauma that almost half (47 per cent) said it would deter them from buying a dog in the future.

“Unlike humans, dogs never let you down,” said Lynne Fisher, Associate Director at Cliverton.

“Through good times and bad times, they are there by your side.

“The bond between dogs and owners is extremely strong – ‘companionship’ was cited as the main reason for getting a dog – so the depth of feeling experienced when they die is totally understandable.”

The survey also found that 82 per cent of

owners said their dog had provided more emotional support and comfort than friends or relatives.

“In difficult times, simply stroking a dog can be a very reflective and therapeutic activity. It can help reduce stress and encourage mindfulness,” said Fisher.

“However depressed you might be feeling, knowing that you have to feed and walk the dog gives you a reason to get out of bed in the morning.

This is something that Ricky Gervais captured perfectly, in his sitcom After Life.

“Some people even find it comforting to voice their worries, fears and upsets to their dog.

It’s a way of organising and rationalising your thoughts, venting and offloading, secure in the knowledge that whatever you say, you are not going to cause concern, in the way that talking to family members might. Dogs offer no judgement.”

The psychological benefits of having a dog could explain why dog ownership in the UK is at a ten-year high, with 11 million dogs being owned1.

“When you consider the level of support dogs provide, it makes it more important than ever to care for them,” Fisher added.

“It is only right and fair that anyone thinking of having a dog needs to be fully aware of the responsibilities that come with it.

“The latest available figures from the RSPCA show that 8,305 dogs were abandoned in 2022. With Christmas approaching, we advise prospective owners to think extremely carefully about the implications before adding a dog to the family.”

EDUCATION 55

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Gold Teaching Award for David

Craig Deakin and Davin O’Keeffe, had the privilege of presenting the award to David, highlighting the deep impact he has had on the lives of those he has worked with.

As the Life Skills Academy Employability Coordinator, David plays a crucial role in empowering learners to reach their employment

potential and acquire essential independent living skills.

When asked by BBC presenter Kevin Duala about his motivation to work with individuals with special needs, David responded, “Because they have a passion for life, and they never let anything hold them back.”

A testament to David’s significant influence is

evident in the success story of Davin O’Keeffe, who spoke of the transformative effect David had on his life.

Davin stated, “David supported me in terms of work, mental health, and education. Without David, I would never have had the confidence to go out into the wider world.”

Today, Davin is

pursuing a Level 4 Performing Arts course at Cardiff and the Vale College, a testament to the transformative influence of David’s mentorship.

Pembrokeshire College Principal, Dr Barry Walters expressed his admiration for David’s achievement, stating: “The Gold Pearson Teaching Award is a testament to David’s dedication and the positive impact that he has made on the lives of our learners.

Pembrokeshire College is proud to have such an exceptional educator among its staff and he is thoroughly deserving of this award.”

David’s Gold Pearson Teaching Award underscores Pembrokeshire College’s commitment to fostering excellence in education and ensuring inclusivity in learning environments.

EDUCATION

Pembrokeshire College is proud to announce that David Jones, the Life Skills Academy Employability Coordinator, has been honoured with the esteemed Gold Pearson Teaching Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education. The recognition comes as a testament to David’s commitment and outstanding contributions to the field.

The prestigious award was presented to David during a surprise announcement on the BBC One Show, where he was initially under the impression of receiving a silver award.

To his astonishment, the surprise unveiling of the gold award was made by none other than Ospreys and Welsh Rugby player Nicky Smith.

Former Life Skills Academy learners,

Child mental health crisis preceded Covid THERE was a substantial increase in emotional problems among young people in Wales in the years immediately before the pandemic, research from Cardiff University shows.

Published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, academics studied data collected from more than 200,000 young people aged 11-16 in Wales.

The results, which compare responses taken between 2013 and 2019, show the number experiencing emotional symptoms associated with anxiety or depression increased over time, with the proportion of young people with high numbers of emotional problems rising from 23% to 38% over six years.

Emotional symptoms reported in the survey include feeling low, irritable, nervous and having sleep difficulties.

Girls and young people from less affluent backgrounds had more

emotional problems, according to the analysis, with pre-existing inequalities in emotional symptoms widening during this time.

Friendship quality and experiencing any form of bullying were strongly associated with higher emotional problems in all three surveys. However,

these trends did not account for the sharp increase in emotional problems.

Lead author Dr Rebecca Anthony, based at Cardiff University’s Centre for the Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement

(DECIPHer) and Wolfson Centre for Young People’s Mental Health, said: “This study provides evidence of a substantial increase in emotional problems among young people in Wales, particularly for young people from less affluent backgrounds.

“These results are concerning, particularly as

this paper only explores the emotional symptoms of young people before COVID-19.

“Evidence indicates that the pandemic and associated restrictions took a large toll on young people’s mental health.

“Our data demonstrate what a vulnerable position young people’s mental health and wellbeing was already in before the pandemic struck.

“Our findings highlight a growing need for prevention efforts across society, with mental health support for young people, particularly among those from less affluent families.

“Further research to address these rising problems is going to be vital as we move on from the pandemic.”

The study used data from the 2013 Welsh Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) and the 2017 and 2019 School Health Research Network (SHRN) Student Health and Wellbeing surveys.

56

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BMW celebrating success in 2023

MOTORS

BMW UK is pleased to be celebrating another successful year end, collecting a host of awards across the winter period, including accolades from Top Gear, Carwow, Electrifying. com, The Car Expert and GREENFLEET. The newly launched BMW i5 received the first awards since its market launch in October 2023, with three category wins.

2023 was another hugely successful year for BMW in the UK, with the brand achieving more than 50 major independent awards.

The BMW i7 continued to impress judges following its launch last year, picking up nine prizes across the year, whilst the BMW UK was awarded ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ by three industry leading outlets.

Frank van Meel collects ‘All The Car You’ll Ever Need’ win at Top Gear Awards 2023 The Top Gear Awards celebrated the greatest cars of 2023 amongst a host of industry experts and leaders in November.

Flying to London especially for the awards, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel took to the stage to accept the award ‘All The Car You’ll Ever Need’ for the BMW M3 Touring, a car first World Premiered in the UK at Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2022.

The first-ever BMW M3 Touring blends blistering performance with everyday practicality with Top Gear Editor-in-Chief Jack Rix adding: “The M3 Touring hits every base on the bullseye. It’s exquisitely trimmed and lavishly equipped, yet it’ll moisten your palms, dry your throat and griddle your backside between home and the tip.”

All-new BMW i5 wins at Carwow ‘Car of the year’ Awards 2024 The Carwow 2024 awards showcased the very best cars on the market, alongside an array of highly commended alternatives, whatever a customer’s budget.

The content team - who run Carwow’s YouTube channel with over 8 million subscribers -

reviewed hundreds of vehicles over 2023 and decided on 12 category winners, recognising and celebrating the cream of the crop.

Launched in the UK in October 2023, the BMW i5 is the eighth generation 5 Series and the first allelectric iteration of the model. Fusing advanced technology with elegant and sporty style, the new i5 won the ‘Comfortable Cruiser’ award from Carwow for 2024. Mat Watson, Carwow Chief Content Officer, said: “The 5 Series is BMW’s legendary saloon, so updating it always comes with pressure. But the first electric i5? Nailed it! BMW has built a posh premium electric car that’s good for the family but also good to drive, has loads of tech, buckets of performance and is a brilliant longdistance cruiser.”

Alongside the category win for the new all-electric model, BMW picked up five commendations for a variety of its models.

The BMW X7 was Highly Commended in the ‘Family Values’ award category, the BMW M3 Touring was Highly Commended in ‘Desirability’ award category and the BMW M5 was Highly Commended for ‘2024’s Most Anticipated New Car’. The BMW M2 was Highly Commended in the ‘Pleasure of Driving’ award category and the BMW i7 rear screens were also Highly Commended in the ‘Tech Trailblazer’ award category.

BMW i5 named Best Premium Electric Car at Electrifying.com Awards 2024 The Electrifying.com Awards are given to the brands, fully electric vehicles and innovations that an expert panel of judges believe represent a significant achievement in the field. The judging panel consisted of a variety of experienced and trusted electric car reviewers including; Founder and CEO of Electrifying.com, Ginny Buckley; Associate Editor at Electrifying.com and Formula E presenter, Nicki Shields; and experienced automotive journalist, and EV

advocate, Tom Barnard.

The BMW i5 – which Electrifying.com first featured on their channel in May 2023 – has been awarded Premium Electric Car of the Year at the 2024 awards.

Ginny Buckley said: “Premium cars are all about making you feel special through their quality, performance, technology and comfort.

Our Electrifying.com Premium Car of the Year - the BMW i5 - has all of those attributes in spades.”

Three category wins for BMW at The Car Expert Awards 2024 Using the power of their exclusive Expert Rating Index, The Car Experts tracked new car reviews from 35 of the UK’s leading motoring websites over the last 12 months and compiled all of the scores awarded to each new model. These scores are then fed into a sophisticated algorithm that accounts for the various different scoring system that the different websites and magazines use, which then allows the awards to be given for the very best new cars customers can buy in 2023.

BMW has rounded out 2023 with not one but three category wins at The Car Expert Awards 2024, with the all-new BMW i5 being awarded Best Large Car on the night, alongside

the BMW M2 receiving Best Performance Car and finally the BMW i7 being honoured with Best Luxury Car. Stuart Masson, Editorial Director at The Car Expert, heralded the importance of the 5 Series model stating: “The arrival of any new 5 Series is a seminal moment for the car industry,” and further went on to praise the introduction of the new electric derivative “The i5 has moved straight to the top of the premium executive class, with a sublime mix of comfort, quality and advanced technology.”

For the third year running, BMW has been awarded the performance car award. Built on its predecessor with an increased performance and an enhanced specification the M2 takes the trophy for the Performance Car of the Year, Masson said: “Its performance will scare a few supercars, both in a straight line and through the trickiest of corners. A triumph.”

Finishing the year with a ninth accolade, the BMW i7 embodies luxury and technology, with the latest generation of the flagship saloon defining the luxury segment with Stuart Masson stating: “The BMW i7 has received near-universal praise from

the UK media since its arrival, with its spacious and tech-laden cabin being earmarked as a particular highlight.”

BMW recognised as Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year at 2023 GREENFLEET Awards The 2023 GREENFLEET awards continued to celebrate environmental excellence within the fleet sector, taking a close look at organisation and individuals that have gone above and beyond to reduce transport emissions.

The event - which took place at the British Motor Museum and was attended by the BMW Corporate Sales team saw BMW take the top spot as Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year. Colin Boyton, GREENFLEET Event Manager, said “This was one of the most hotlycontested categories this year. A leading name on most UK fleet option lists, BMW is taking electrification seriously, with electric versions of its staple models at its core, and electric SUV models complimenting its line-up.”

GREENFLEET is the third major title to name BMW Fleet Manufacturer of the Year in 2023, following the Fleet News Awards and the Business Car Awards.

57

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TOYOTA AYGO - 2012

SUZUKI ALTO - 2011

DACIA SANDERO - 2019

NISSAN QASHQAI+2 - 2013

CITROEN DISPATCH - 2014

1.0 VVT-I FIRE AC 3d 67 BHP ** PETROL......5 SPEED......YES ONLY 60,065 MILES FROM NEW.......SERVICE HISTORY 9 STAMPS.......2 KEYS........2 PREVIOUS OWNERS.........£0 ROAD TAX.........LOW INSURANCE GROUP 3..

1.0 SZ2 5d 68 BHP **PETROL....£20 ROAD TAX....LOW INSURANCE GROUP....LOW MILEAGE - 43,934 MILES....64MPG....REMOTE CENTRAL LOCKING..

0.9 COMFORT TCE 5d 90 BHP ** PETROL......5 SPEED......YES ONLY 53,589 MILES FROM NEW....... 1 PREVIOUS OWNER.......2 KEYS.......LOW INSURANCE GROUP 10..........57 MPG.

1.5 PLUS 2 DCI N-TEC PLUS 5d 110 BHP ** DIESEL......7 SEATER.......6 SPEED.....£180 ROAD TAX......53 MPG......N-TEC PLUS EDITION......

GLASS ROOF......AIRCON.......CRUISE

1.6 1000 L1H1 HDI 4d 89 BHP ** DIESEL.......5 SPEED...... 1 PREVIOUS OWNER......YES ONLY COVERED 64,498 MILES FROM NEW ..........

SERVICE HISTORY........TWIN SIDELOADING DOORS.....2 KEYS......

£4,495

£3,295

KIA CEED - 2014

BMW 1 SERIES - 2013

1.6 CRDI 2 ECODYNAMICS 5d 126 BHP **DIESEL.......ESTATE......6 SPEED......87,389 MILES.......SERVICE HISTORY 4 STAMPS......2 KEYS.....,.£35 ROAD TAX.......64 MPG.......SPORTS WAGON ....

1.6 116I SE 5d 135 BHP ** PETROL........8 SPEED AUTOMATIC.......2 PREVIOUS OWNERS........YES ONLY 68,313 MILES FROM NEW.......

SERVICE HISTORY 4 STAMPS........2 KEYS.........£150 ROAD TAX..........50 MPG....

£6,295

£8,995

£7,395

£5,995

SMART FORTWO COUPE - 2010

TOYOTA AYGO - 2015

PASSION MHD ** PETROL......AUTOMATIC......YES ONLY 59,859 MILES.........

SERVICE HISTORY 8 STAMPS.........£20 ROAD TAX........74 MPG........PASSION EDITION.......AIRCON..

1.0 VVT-I X-CLUSIV 5d 69 BHP ** PETROL.....5 SPEED.......YES ONLY COVERED 36,629 MILES FROM NEW........FULL SERVICE HISTORY 8 STAMPS........2 KEYS........£0 ROAD TAX...

£4,995

£7,995

£4,995

MERCEDES-BENZ A-CLASS 2015 1.5 A180 CDI BLUEEFFICIENCY SE 5d 109 BHP **DIESEL....6 SPEED.....£0 ROAD TAX.......74 MPG.......2 KEYS.......

SE EDITION.......HALF LEATHER SPORTS SEATS.......MEDIA SCREEN....

£9,995

CITROEN DS4 - 2012

DS DS 3 - 2016

KIA SPORTAGE - 2014

FORD KA - 2015

MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS - 2014

1.6 HDI DSTYLE 5d 110 BHP ** DIESEL......6 SPEED.....2 PREVIOUS OWNER........96.829 MILES........SERVICE HISTORY 6 STAMPS.......£150 ROAD TAX.......60MPG.........2 KEYS........

DSTYLE EDITION.....

1.6 BLUEHDI ELEGANCE S/S 3d 98 BHP ** DIESEL.......5 SPEED......

ONLY 81,373 MILES......2 PREVIOUS OWNERS.......2 KEYS........£0 ROAD TAX.......83 MPG.....

1.7 CRDI 2 ISG 5d 114 BHP ** DIESEL.....6 SPEED.......1 PREVIOUS OWNER.......4 WHEEL DRIVE......SERVICE HISTORY......2 KEYS......CRDi 2 EDITION.......HALF LEATHER SEATS.

1.2 ZETEC 3d 69 BHP ** PETROL....

LOW MILEAGE - 61,330 MILES FROM NEW....2 KEYS....INSURANCE GROUP 4....£35 ROAD TAX....57 MPG....ZETEC EDITION.

2.1 C220 CDI AMG SPORT EDITION 2d 168 BHP ** DIESEL.......COUPE......

AUTOMATIC 7 SPEED.......YES ONLY 83,149 MILES........£180 ROAD TAX........53 MPG........AMG SPORT EDITION.......HALF LEATHER

CITROEN C4 GRAND PICASSO

VOLVO XC60 - 2011

BMW 1 SERIES - 2010

VOLKSWAGEN UP - 2013

DACIA LOGAN MCV - 2015

1.6 E-HDI AIRDREAM EXCLUSIVE PLUS 5d 113 BHP ** 7 SEATER....

DIESEL....6 SPEED....£20 ROAD TAX....70 MPG.......EXCLUSIVE PLUS EDITION.......HUGE SPEC...

2.4 D5 R-DESIGN AWD 5d 212 BHP ** DIESEL.......AUTOMATIC......ESTATE......4 WHEEL DRIVE......ONE PREVIOUS OWNER.....SERVICE HISTORY 10 STAMPS......R DESIGN EDITION

2.0 118D SPORT 2d 141 BHP ** CONVERTIBLE.....DIESEL........6 SPEED.......2 PEVIOUS OWNERS.......YES ONLY 91,740 MILES FROM NEW.......SERVICE HISTORY 8 STAMPS...

£7,495

£6,995

£4,995

1.0 ROCK UP 3d 74 BHP ** PETROL.......5 SPEED.......YES ONLY COVERED 42,131 MILES FROM NEW........FULL SERVICE HISTORY 5 STAMPS........2 KEYS........£20 ROAD TAX.......60 MPG..

0.9 AMBIANCE TCE 5d 90 BHP ** PETROL.......ESTATE......ONE PREVIOUS OWNER.......5 SPEED......£20 ROAD TAX .......LOW INSURANCE GROUP 8.........57 MPG......AMBIANCE EDITION.....

£4,995

£6,495

£6,995

£4,995

£6,995

£9,495

£4,995

01792 814 110 after hours 07976 731 199 • BEVANS GARAGE, PENIEL GREEN ROAD, SKEWEN, SWANSEA, SA7 9BU

www.junction44motorcompany.co.uk • junction44motorcompany@gmail.com

58

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2017/17 JAGUAR F-TYPE 5.0 V8R SUPERCHARGED CONVERTIBLE AUTOMATIC ONLY 7000 MILES, WHITE WITH BLACK ROOF 2022 72 2021 21 2020 70 2020 20 2019 69 2019 19 2019 19 2019 68 2018 68 2018 18 2018 18 2018 18 2018 18 2017 67 2017 67 2017 67 2017 17 2017 17 2017 17 2015 65 2015 65 2015 15 2013 63 2013 63 2013 63 2013 13 2013 13 2013 13 2013 13 2013 13 2012 62

TOYOTA AYGO 1.0 X PURE AUTOMATIC, 5dr, white, 1 owner, 5k .....................£15,500.00 FORD FIESTA 1.0 ST LINE EDITION, 5dr, black, 1 owner, fsh, ............................£15,995.00 MINI COOPER S ELECTRIC. 3dr, grey. 19k, 1 owner ............................................£14,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.0 TREND, 5dr, blue, 15k ...............................................................£13,595.00 TOYOTA C-HR DYNAMIQUE 1,8 HYBRID, 5dr, silver, fsh, 1 owner....................£14,995.00 CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS 1.5 BLUE Hdi Flair, 19k, ...............................................£11,995.00 VAUXHALL INSIGNIA DESIGN 1.6 TD, 5dr, service history, blue .........................£7,995.00 FORD FOCUS 1.0 125 ZETEC, 5dr, silver, 43k, 1 owner, fsh ...................................£11,995.00 BMW I3 600cc RANGE ENTENDER, blue, 21k, 1 owner, fsh .................................£19,995.00 FORD FOCUS 1.0 ZETEC ESTATE, silver, ...............................................................£6,995.00 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 2.0 GT TDI 5dr, B/motion, white,1 owner .........................£11,995.00 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6 CDTi DESIGN ESTATE, silver, ..........................................£7,995.00 PEUGEOT 108 1.2 ALLURE, purple, 46k, ................................................................£8,495.00 KIA SPORTAGE 2 1.7 CRDI, silver, 1 owner, fsh, ...................................................£11,995.00 HYUNDAI TUCSON 1.7 CRDi 2wd, grey, 1 owner, 76k, fsh ...................................£12,995.00 FIAT ABARTH 1.4 AUTOMATIC, blue, 2000 miles, 1 owner, fsh ..........................£14,750.00 SKODA FABIA 1.4S Tdi ESTATE, grey, 1owner, .......................................................£6,995.00 PEUGEOT 208 1.6 HDI ACCESS, 5dr, grey, service history .....................................£4,995.00 FIAT 500 1.2 POP, white, 33k .....................................................................................£7,650.00 PEUGEOT PARTNER HORIZON S 1.6 MPV, mobility access, blue, 19k ...............£9,500.00 CITROEN DS3 1.2 DSTYLE PURETECH, yellow, 3dr, service history ....................£4,495.00 CITROEN C1 1.0 AIRSPACE, orange, 5dr, 59k .........................................................£5,495.00 AUDI A3 2.0 SE TDI, 3dr, white, service history, .....................................................£6,995.00 PEUGEOT 208 1.4 HDI ACCESS, 5dr, grey, service history .....................................£4,495.00 TOYOTA AYGO 1.0 MOVE, 5dr, white, service history ...........................................£3,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.5 STYLE Tdci 5dr, silver .................................................................£4,850.00 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI ZETEC, 5dr, red, ...............................................................£4,995.00 AUDI A1 1.6 SPORT Tdi, black, 3dr ..........................................................................£5,000.00 PEUGEOT 107 1.0 ACTIVE, silver, 21k.....................................................................£4,750.00 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.2 CDTI LTD EDITION, red, 3dr, service history ................£4,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.4 EDGE Tdci 5dr, silver ..................................................................£4,250.00

2012 62 2012 62 2012 12 2012 12 2011 11 2011 11 2011 11 2010 10 2010 10 2010 10 2004 53 1999 S

FIAT 500 1.2 CONVERTIBLE. 3dr, red .....................................................................£2,995.00 TOYOTA AYGO 1.0 VVTI, white 5dr, service history .............................................£3,995.00 TOYOTA YARIS 1.3 TR VVTI, white, 5dr, ...............................................................£4,995.00 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 2.0 GT TDI CONVERTIBLE B/motion, white, ...................£5,995.00 PEUGEOT 107 1.0 URBAN, 5dr, red, 50k, ................................................................£3,550.00 FORD FIESTA 1.2 ZETEC 3dr, silver, 56k, ................................................................£5,495.00 PEUGEOT 107 1.0 ENVY, 5dr, red.............................................................................£3,650.00 BMW 710 DIESEL M SPORT 4dr SALOON, black, .................................................£7,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.4 TITANIUM, AUTOMATIC, 3dr, red, 46k ..................................£5,650.00 FORD FIESTA EDGE 1.4 Tdci, 1 owner, fsh, silver ..................................................£4,250.00 PORSCHE BOXSTER S 3.2 CONVERTIBLE, blue, 54k, s/history ...........................£7,995.00 BMW Z3 2.8 SPORT CONVERTIBLE, 2dr, silver, genuine low mileage..................£7,995.00

COMMERCIALS

Prices inclusive of 20% VAT 2019 69 2019 19 2018 68 2018 18 2018 18 2018 18 2017 67 2016 16 2016 16 2011 61 2011 11

MERCEDES SPRINTER CAR TRANSPORTER 2.1 Cdi, 1 owner, 70k ...................£29,995.00 MERCEDES SPRINTER DROPSIDE Lorry, 2.1 Cdi, 1 owner, ...............................£16,000.00 FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2.0 Tdi, white, 1 owner ................................................£13,500.00 FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2.0 Tdi, yellow, ............................................................£13,000.00 PEUGEOT PARTNER 1.6 TDI, white, ......................................................................£7,995.00 PEUGEOT PARTNER 1.6 BLUE HDI, silver, ............................................................£8,495.00 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT 1.5 td, 1 owner, 70k ...................................................£11,500.00 MERCEDES SPRINTER 2.1 Cdi FRIDGE VAN .......................................................£6,250.00 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.3 Cdti, white, 85k ..................................................................£6,995.00 FORD TRANSIT 100 2.4 T350 Semi high top, white ................................................£4,995.00 PEUGEOT BIPPER 1.4 TURBO DIESEL, white .......................................................£3,500.00

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS OLD AND NEW

59

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Solva Surgery – update from Hywel Dda Health Board FOLLOWING the decision by Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) to run Solva Surgery as a Managed Practice in April this year, the Health Board is pleased to confirm the establishment of a working group of local stakeholders to help shape the future of GP services across the St David’s Peninsula in North Pembrokeshire.

The Peninsula Working Group will work with local stakeholders to find longer-term solutions to the sustainability of GP and primary care services across Solva and St David’s. The group has met twice, and another meeting is scheduled for the New Year.

John Evans, Pembrokeshire County Director at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “We are continuing to work with the Solva Surgery Working Group, St David’s Surgery and Community representatives to develop a shared vision for services to support

patients across this very rural area. Our priority in recent months has been stabilising the Practice, supporting the team and developing the right skill mix.

“At a time when both GP practices are under pressure, it is important that we maintain our focus on the longerterm picture of how we develop sustainable services.”

M e a n w h i l e ,

recruitment to the Solva Surgery team has continued with a Lead Nurse now in-post and the nursing team now fully staffed. Regular GP locums are working alongside Dr Unversucht and efforts to recruit more GPs to permanent roles are continuing.

Work to consolidate services at Solva Surgery also continues.

Minor building work and maintenance to the

surgery is taking place in December and January.

The Practice will remain open as normal through this, and the Health Board apologises for any inconvenience this may cause.

Jill Paterson, Director of Primary Care and Long-Term Services at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “It has been a challenging year for the team in Solva Surgery and the support from the local

Community has really helped this transition.

“I am very pleased to confirm that Solva Surgery and St David’s Surgery have again reported the highest uptake of flu vaccination for any Practice in the Health Board and the Health Board’s immunisation team has been able to support St David’s Surgery with some of their Covid vaccination programme.

“High vaccination uptake shows a willingness by patients to play their part in staying well over the winter. This is a huge achievement for small teams in busy Practices and reflects the dedication and organisation of the teams in Solva and St David’s.

“As we look forward to the New Year, the Health Board is committed to working as a part of the Peninsula Working Group to find longerterm solutions to the sustainability of GP and Primary Care services across Solva and St David’s.”

Looking after our NHS over the festive period

HEALTH

With the festive season upon us, Hywel Dda University Health Board is urging people to help protect precious NHS resources and to not attend our busy A&E departments unless they have a critical, life-threatening emergency.

To ensure that we can treat patients appropriately, and to avoid ambulances queuing up outside our A&Es or being diverted to other hospitals, the health board is asking people to choose their healthcare services very carefully, so that we are only seeing people with urgent or emergency care needs in A&E. If you have urgent care needs that cannot wait but are not 999 emergencies, please dial 111 for NHS Direct Wales for health advice and support. The number is free to call and this service is available even when your GP surgery is open. 111 is also the number you need to access out-of-hours GP services across our area.

Together with our partners in local authorities, the third sector and Welsh

Ambulance Service NHS Trust, our focus is on managing the capacity we have in our acute hospitals and busy emergency departments, while also reducing the amount of time patients need to spend in a hospital bed, by providing as much non-emergency and follow up care outside of the hospital environment as we can.

If you have a friend, family member or loved one who is medically well enough to be discharged from hospital, please help us by coming to pick them up promptly. This will allow us to free up beds faster for acutely unwell patients and keep the patient flow steady through our hospitals.

Andrew Carruthers, Executive Director of Operations at Hywel Dda, said: “I would like firstly to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to our clinical workforce for their relentless effort and determination to provide the best quality of care possible to our patients and communities often in the most difficult of circumstances.

“They are the very

embodiment of all that’s good about the NHS and what the health service stands for, and they should all be very proud.

“The challenges of accessing care and treatment, particularly in the post-Covid era, are well-documented nationally and sadly Hywel Dda is not immune to these. The way that we try to manage the challenges we face is by adopting an approach, which brings together our acute hospitals, primary care and community services, ambulance service, local authorities and the third sector. We need everyone to play their part and help – and our public and patients are absolutely key to this.”

If you are unwell and unsure what to do, you can visit the online symptom checker to cross-check your symptoms against a number of common ailments and if directed call NHS 111 Wales.

If you need to talk to someone urgently about your mental health, or you’re concerned about a family member, call

NHS 111 Wales and select option 2 to be placed in direct contact with a mental health professional in your area. The number is free to call from a landline or mobile, even if you have no credit left.

Only attend an Emergency Department if you have a life-threatening illness or serious injury, such as: • • • •

Severe breathing difficulties Severe pain or bleeding Chest pain or a suspected stroke Serious trauma injuries (eg. from a car crash)

If you have a less serious injury, then please visit one of our Minor Injury Units.

They can treat adults and children over 12-months of age, with injuries such as: • • Minor wounds • Minor burns or scalds • Insect bites • Minor limb, head, or face injuries • Foreign bodies in the nose or ear

We have minor injury or walk-in services at Cardigan Integrated Care Centre (Monday - Friday 8.00am - 6.30pm. Bank Holidays, 9.00am - 4:30pm) and Tenby Hospital (Monday - Friday 10.00am - 5.00pm including Bank Holidays) as well as at our main acute hospitals.

For opening hours, please check our website. Home - Hywel Dda University Health Board (nhs.wales) Many community pharmacies can also provide walk-in, common ailment or triage and treat services without an appointment. You can find out more here: https://hduhb.nhs. wales/healthcare/servicesand-teams/pharmacy/ Your support not only helps your loved one, but it is a huge support to the NHS and social care services as well.

Please help us to make our service safer by sharing this information with friends and family.

Thank you for your continued support as always.

61

Friday December 22nd 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

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Junior doctors in Wales vote in favour of strike action over pay

JUNIOR doctors in Wales have voted overwhelmingly for strike action in their fight for pay restoration, a campaign to restore their pay which has been cut by nearly a third (29.6%) in real terms since 2008/9.

Almost every junior doctor who cast a vote (98 %) voted in favour of industrial action in the ballot which ended at midday today (Monday 18th December).

A significant 65% of junior doctors eligible to vote in Wales had responded to a call to take part in strike action which will take place from 15 January.

The 72-hour full walkout could potentially see over 3,000 doctors with up to 11 years of experience out of medical school withdraw their labour from Welsh hospitals and GP surgeries across Wales in pursuit of a fairer deal for their service.

The Welsh junior doctors committee

made the decision to ballot members in August after being offered another belowinflation pay offer of 5% – the worst in the UK and 1% lower than recommended by the DDRB (the review body for Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration).

The offer was put to the doctors just four months after the Welsh Government initially declared they would commit to the principle of pay restoration back in April 2023.

Dr Oba BabsOsibodu and Dr Peter Fahey co-chairs of BMA Cymru Wales’ junior doctors committee said: “This vote clearly shows the strength of feeling. We are frustrated, in despair and angry and we have voted clearly to say, ‘in the name of our profession, we can’t and we won’t take any further erosion of our pay.

“Our members have been forced to take this difficult decision because Junior

doctors in Wales have experienced a pay cut of 29.6 per cent in real terms over the last 15 years.

“A doctor starting their career in Wales will earn as little as £13.65**** an hour and for that they could be performing lifesaving procedures and taking on huge levels of responsibility.

“We aren’t asking for a pay rise – we are asking for our pay to be restored in line with inflation back to 2008 levels, when we began to receive pay cuts in real terms. Pay needs to be fair and competitive with other healthcare systems across the world to retain and recruit doctors and NHS staff to provide muchneeded care.

“On top of this junior doctors are experiencing worsening conditions and so doctors are now looking to leave Wales to develop their careers for better pay and a better quality of life elsewhere.

“This is not a decision

that has been made lightly. No doctor wants to take industrial action, but we have been given no choice. Doctors are already voting with their feet and leaving the NHS and we are in a vicious cycle of crippling staffing shortages and worsening patient care” Responding to the news that junior doctors in Wales have voted in favour of strike action, with a 72-hour walkout scheduled from Monday 15th January, assistant director of the Welsh NHS Confederation Nesta Lloyd-Jones said: “Health leaders know this is not a decision staff who voted for strike action will have taken lightly and recognise the frustration staff feel.

“Like most people, staff are being hit hard by the cost-of-living crisis, alongside rising demand for healthcare causing increased pressure at work. NHS leaders recognise how hard staff work and the huge contribution, and sacrifices, they make day in, day out and

we can’t thank them enough.

“It must be acknowledged that this comes at a particularly difficult time for public finances, but we urge those on both sides of the table to do everything possible to reach a compromise.

“By now, we understand the impact industrial action can have on staff, patients, waiting lists and wider NHS finances and we know January usually sees some of the highest demand on services.

“Following the announcement, NHS organisations will now focus on understanding the implications on services and put contingency plans in place to minimise disruption to patient care.

If any changes need to be made to non-urgent care services, such as check-ups and elective care, they will ensure this is communicated in advance to patients.”

Commenting on the news that junior doctors in Wales will

strike in January, Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister, Russell George MS said: “It is clear that the Labour Government’s has not done enough to avert the strikes that will be causing disruption after the busy Christmas period and inevitably beyond.

“Patients in Wales are already suffering from significant waiting times for treatment, in A&E and for ambulances. With news this morning that taxis are being used to replace ambulances in North Wales and Labour continuously missing their target of eliminating inhuman 2-year waits this disruption will act as a further setback as the winter pressures mount.

“I would suggest to Labour Ministers in the Senedd that they park their pet projects and spend the full Barnett consequential on the health budget, as for every £1 spent in England, Wales receives £1.20, yet Labour only spend £1.05 on the health service here in Wales.”

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Friday December 22nd 2023 For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

Ogi revisits full fibre rollout for rural Pembrokeshire

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BUSINESS

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WELSH broadband ISP Ogi has informed ISPreview that they’re having to “re-plan” some of their complex rural full fibre (FTTP) network builds in Pembrokeshire , which occurred after they unearthed some “previously unknown challenges” during the engineering survey stage.

The situation came to light after we started hearing of some challenges with the operator’s planned deployment across the recently announced seaside town of Tenby (here), as well as some other parts of their Pembrokeshire build.

This area is currently being delivered by regional civil engineering partner Network Plus.

According to Ogi, the operator’s build is actually running ahead of schedule in the Pembrokeshire area, and they were thus expecting to slow down a bit at the start of 2024. But this desire appears to have been compounded by some unexpected challenges.

Chief Delivery Officer, Steve Cooper, said: Rural builds in regions like Pembrokeshire are complex and need to be planned carefully.

Recent surveys have unearthed some previously unknown challenges that mean we need to revisit our network plans in the area and, working with the Local Authority and our partners, re-plan some works. This means that while physical activity may not be as visible during the first few months of 2024, we will be working behind the scenes, making sure we can overcome these challenges out in the field first time.

Together with Network Plus, we’ve already reached almost half of Pembrokeshire – a huge achievement that has seen us commit over £40m to the area to date.”

The early part of next year will now be spent on finalising the

routes for Tenby and to work out the logistics now that they’ve been able to survey the whole town. Network Plus will work throughout January to finish already announced towns, while at the same time Ogi will

be planning for the next phase in the region (to be announced).

Customers of the service can expect to pay from £30 per month for an unlimited plan with downloads of 150Mbps (15Mbps upload) and

an included wireless router on a 24-month term, which rises to £60 for their top 900Mbps (90Mbps upload) plan.

New customers will also get 6 months FREE broadband and evening and weekend voice

calling.

The operator has so far covered a total of 60,000 premises up to July 2023 (up from 47,500 in March 2023) and have added 6,000 customers “in less than a year”

BUSINESS 63

Friday December 22nd 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

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Pembs Coastal Forum looks for new director

PEMBROKESHIRE COASTAL FORUM (PCF), a Community Interest Company based in the UK’s only coastal National Park, is on the lookout for a new Non-Executive Director who will also serve as the Chair of Marine Energy Wales (MEW), a program established by PCF. This unique role offers an exceptional opportunity to influence the future of sustainable coastal management and marine renewable energy in Wales.

The appointed individual will join the PCF Board of Directors, contributing to the strategic direction and development of the organisation.

The role involves guiding MEW, a program established by PCF, which is dedicated to supporting the marine renewable industry in Wales and positioning the nation as a global leader in sustainable marine energy gen-

eration.

PCF provides a single-point-of-access for coastal sustainability.

The company was born from the Sea Empress disaster as the need for an independent body to address issues facing our coast became apparent.

Just like the response to that disaster, it works to bring people together – to start conversations and to inspire change, and although it has developed significantly over the years, its mission has not changed; to support sustainable development and to protect our coast and marine environments for current and future generations to enjoy.

Over the last 22 years PCF has developed an ever-expanding and evolving range of collaborative activities that are often viewed as national best practice. Its diverse range of projects focus on four key coastal challenges: Marine Renewable Energy, Responsi-

ble Recreation, Climate Change and Water Quality and Land Use. Marine Energy Wales, under PCF’s governance, has been instrumental in numerous projects and initiatives aimed at promoting sector collaboration, policy development, and attracting investment. The new Chair will play a crucial role in guiding these efforts, particularly in advancing the Marine Energy Test Area (META) around Milford Haven and supporting

technology developers.

The role is voluntary for the PCF Board, with remuneration available for the MEW Chair position. The time commitment includes attendance at quarterly PCF Board meetings in Pembrokeshire, participation in MEW Advisory Board and working group meetings, and involvement in the annual MEW conference.

Candidates should possess a strategic vision, experience in chair-

ing meetings, strong communication and negotiation skills, and a commitment to the objectives of PCF and MEW. Experience in marine energy, offshore renewable development, and sustainability is desirable.

Interested individuals are invited to apply by sending a CV and a personal statement outlining their contribution to the future development of PCF and MEW. Applications are due by January 22, 2024, with virtual

interviews scheduled for January 31 and a final interview on February 6, 2024.

APPLICATION PAGE: https://www.pembrokeshirecoastalforum.org. uk/pcf-director-mewchair/ This is a remarkable chance to be part of a pioneering initiative that aims to make a significant impact on local and wider society through sustainable practices and innovative energy solutions.

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positively Bailiff reform plan call liberal With ANDREW LYE

POLITICS

As the Conservatives continue to fight between themselves over the issue of Rwanda and Sunak’s policy of “Stop the Boats”, millions of us have many other priorities, including the cost of living crisis and the crisis affecting the NHS, for example. Sunak seems unable to lead his Party out of the doldrums in the polls.

One of my major issues is the climate crisis/global heating.

Liberal Democrat Leader, Ed Davey was Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, 2012-2015, and led the UK delegation to three UN Climate Change Conferences.

Ed Davey speaks with experience and he writes as follows:“Vital though they are, climate change conferences rarely deliver. Regrettably, Dubai’s COP28 was another disappointing summit. Despite hype that the agreement saw “the beginning of the end for fossil fuels”, the actual text was undermined with loopholes and flawed by the absence of timescales.”

“This sad reality was only confirmed by the most independent of judges – the markets. The share prices of the oil and gas majors didn’t move.”

“And as emissions continue to rise and as the world continues to heat up, we just can’t afford more such failures.”

“If the world is going to take action and make the agreements so desperately needed, then the next two years will be critical – and three things need to happen.”

“First, we need to see nations deliver on their existing promises fast – including the UK, where, like too many other countries, we are not on course to meet our own “nationally determined” target.”

“Second, we need a huge international political effort between now and Brazil’s COP30 in 2025, to remove the remaining barriers to a dramatic shift in global direction.”

“Third, we need politics and technology to deliver the combination of leadership and confidence that made the Paris Climate Agreement of 2015 possible – the last COP that really did move the dial.”

“So how can the UK help make the difference in each of these three tests? And how can we Liberal Democrats work to make sure the UK steps up?”

“Domestically, we

need to expose the climate hypocrisy of the Conservatives – and make sure the next Parliament votes for a radical step change in the UK’s own climate action.”

“I’m sure I’m not alone in getting fed up of the Conservatives taking credit for the successes of the Liberal Democrats in Government, when we nearly quadrupled the UK’s renewable electricity, made the UK the world leader in offshore wind and embedded the policies that have seen the UK’s emissions fall and coal power decline to near zero. Given they fought us every step of the way, the Conservatives’ hypocrisy is breathtaking – especially as they now use our success as an excuse for their inaction today.”

“Liberal Democrat climate policies like accelerating renewable power rapidly and increasing energy efficiency investments dramatically are essential if the UK is to deliver on our climate promises to future generations, cut energy bills and make the UK more energy independent. In contrast, at the next election, the Conservatives’ willingness to speed up oil and gas extraction, enable a new coalmine to open and oppose solar and wind investments will enable us to make this case – we are the party of the future, they are the party of the past.”

“The second set of necessary actions need the UK to embrace an internationalist approach that’s totally alien to the current Government. From working closely with European allies to reaching out to geopolitical adversaries, the UK must rediscover past active climate diplomacy that saw us influence capitals from Warsaw to Washington, and Beijing to Abuja. When I had the privilege of leading the UK delegation to 3 COPs and shaping both the British and European preparations for the critical COP21, the unreported work of my team of brilliant officials and the Foreign Office’s outstanding diplomats was in my view essential to the successes achieved in Paris in 2015.”

Ed Davey had more to say on the subject. I will consider it for the next Positively Liberal, in January 2024.

On behalf of Pembrokeshire Liberal Democrats, I wish readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year/ Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.

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

A BACKBENCHER has led a debate on debt collection amid concerns that bad behaviour is the norm rather than the exception among bailiffs.

Labour’s Jack Sargeant led a Senedd debate calling for greater regulation of debt collectors in Wales.

The Alyn and Deeside MS brought forward the proposal after The Times exposed British Gas debt collectors joking as they forced their way into the homes of vulnerable customers.

He said: “And the more I read about the behaviour of debt collectors and bailiffs, the more determined I became to do something.

Mr Sargeant told the chamber that a third of people contacted by bailiffs during the costof-living crisis have experienced behaviours that broke the rules.

“Many have faced intimidating behaviour,” he said. “For instance, a single mother was woken up at 6am, while it was still dark, by male bailiffs knocking on the door.

“Her children were scared and she became too anxious to sleep.”

‘Huge toll’ Mr argeant raised concerns about misinformation, citing the example of a company in Wales telling people they can be imprisoned, which has not been the case since 2019.

He said a widow’s car was clamped, stopping her getting to work in the ambulance service, despite her having paid off council tax debt with inheritance from her late husband.

He told MSs that half

Chris Haines

ICNN Senedd reporter

of people contacting Citizens Advice for help with debt collectors are in council tax arrears as he backed the charity’s calls for a statutory code of practice.

Mr Sargeant said: “Indebtedness and, in particular, the involvement of debt collectors and bailiffs, takes a huge toll on people’s physical and mental health.”

Mark Isherwood shared his concerns but warned that lawyers have advised that a bill to regulate debt collection and enforcement would be outside of the Senedd’s powers.

Unworkable’ The Conservative MS for North Wales argued a code of practice could only be voluntary, suggesting this would make the proposal unworkable.

Mr Isherwood highlighted an existing legal requirement for a debt collection agency to register and follow guidelines set out by the Financial Conduct Authority.

He said debt recovery that would be deemed harassment is not allowed, including entering a debtor’s home without consent or pressuring people to make payments they cannot afford.

Sioned Williams warned that people have been pushed into Victorian levels of poverty.

The Plaid Cymru politician raised the equality committee’s report on unsustainable debt fuelled by the costof-living crisis which painted a bleak picture.

She said: “What is frustrating is that the urgent steps needed to prevent people from falling into the debt trap, outlined in our most important recommendations, haven’t been taken yet.”

The South Wales West MS backed Mr Sargeant’s motion, which called for a duty on public bodies to only use debt collectors that sign up to a code of conduct.

Mike Hedges told the chamber that people need support with underlying issues such as substance abuse and gambling addiction.

“Most end up in debt due to a catastrophic occurrence in their lives,” said the Labour MS for Swansea East, who raised concerns about lax background checks by debt collection firms.

‘Debt bonfire’ Jane Dodds, the Lib Dem leader in Wales, called for a “debt bonfire” which would see the Welsh Government buy bad debt and cancel it for the poorest people in Wales.

While agreeing with the motion’s principles, Jane Hutt said powers on the debt enforcement industry are not devolved as she called for more effective regulation at a UK level.

The social justice minister told MSs the Welsh Government has taken steps within its powers to ensure the collection of council tax arrears is managed in a just and sensitive way.

Ms Hutt said: “All the local authorities have made a commitment to implement the council tax protocol for Wales, an important step to changing the culture of council tax enforcement.”

She added that ministers would abstain but Labour backbenchers would have a free vote on the member’s legislative proposal.

During plenary on Wednesday December 13, the motion was agreed with 27 for, 25 abstentions and none against.

POLITICS 65

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Energy schemes planning law ‘undermines’ the Senedd A PROPOSED law to reform the planning process for major infrastructure projects in Wales passed its first hurdle – despite concerns it “undermines” the role of the Senedd.

MSs held a debate on the Infrastructure bill, which would streamline the consent process for significant renewable energy infrastructure with the goal of creating a “one-stop shop”.

Blaenau Gwent MS Alun Davies, speaking on behalf of the Senedd’s legislation committee, which made 50 recommendations, raised concerns about ministerial powers within the bill.

The backbencher criticised the inclusion of ‘Henry VIII’ clauses which would allow ministers to change the law in future without full parliamentary scrutiny.

He explained: “We have concerns that five of the 14 Henry VIII powers in the bill could be exercised by the Welsh Government without the Senedd having any knowledge that the law that it has approved has been modified.”

Mr Davies said the bill, which contains more than

80 delegated powers, does not constrain ministers’ powers as fully as it should.

He told the Senedd: “These are enduring powers. They are not one-off powers we’re being asked to delegate.”

Llyr Gruffydd, who chairs the climate committee, which made 20 recommendations, raised similar concerns, saying the bill is overreliant on delegated legislation.

He said: “This

approach not only undermines the Senedd’s capacity to conduct thorough scrutiny, but also casts doubt on how effectively the bill will deliver on its policy intentions.

“The anticipated onestop-shop approach that the minister has heralded, for example, remains nebulous without these critical details.”

Mr Gruffydd told MSs that the bill requires significant amendments to make it a workable and

effective cornerstone of the planning process.

The Plaid Cymru MS for North Wales said the bill includes scant detail on engagement “which frustrates genuine public involvement and hinders transparency”.

Mr Gruffydd also criticised a lack of detail around transitional arrangements between current and future systems, with the new process set to be implemented by mid2025.

Janet FinchSaunders, the Conservatives’ shadow climate minister, raised concerns about a shortage of council planning and legal officers.

Ms Finch-Saunders said her party would support the bill during the debate on Tuesday December 5 but “numerous fundamental problems” must be addressed in future.

Delyth Jewell, her Plaid Cymru

counterpart, raised the importance of balancing major infrastructure development with the need to safeguard the environment.

Julie James, responding for the Welsh Government, stressed that she would consider committees’ recommendations and respond fully in writing following the debate.

She said ministers have sought to limit Henry VIII clauses to small and specific matters, pointing out that the legislation committee suggested an additional nine powers.

Ms James said: “The bill introduces a modern and simplified regime for the consenting of significant infrastructure projects in Wales, both on the land and in the territorial sea.

“I am committed to an efficient and effective consenting regime that makes a positive contribution to our social, economic and environmental prosperity.”

The bill now moves to ‘stage two’ which will see the Senedd’s climate committee consider amendments proposed by MSs.

Friday November 24th 2023 For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

Chief legal officer grilled about Senedd reforms

MSs grilled Mick Chris Haines Antoniw, Wales’ chief ICNN Senedd reporter legal officer, about plans to reform the people in Wales are Senedd amid concerns already familiar with about “no evidence” closed lists as they in support of the are an extension of proposed closed-list the current additional electoral system. member system.

Under the Senedd He said reformed Cymru (Members and elections would be fully Elections) bill, the proportional, bringing Welsh Parliament would about a much fairer increase in size from 60 result. to 96 members.

Mr Antoniw criticised A closed-list system the first-past-thewould be used for future post system used in Senedd elections, Westminster elections. meaning the electorate He stressed would vote for parties that compromise is rather than people. necessary because And the 32 the bill will require a constituencies that will supermajority of twobe used in the next UK thirds support to pass in general election will be the Senedd. paired to create 16 for The counsel general the 2026 Senedd poll, disagreed with Prof with each returning six Laura McAllister, who members. has warned closed lists Jane Dodds, the Lib are dangerous, arguing Dems leader in Wales, the proposed changes said the Senedd reform are a step forward. committee’s inquiry has Ms Dodds said: “I’m heard no evidence from still unclear about the witnesses in support of democratic benefits of a a closed-list system. closed-list system.”

She suggested the The Conservatives’ system was imposed on Darren Millar agreed, a previous committee, arguing that such a with agreement reached system would lead behind closed doors to less democratic between the first accountability as he minister and Adam added his voice to calls Price, Plaid Cymru’s for an open, flexible-list former leader. approach.

Mr Antoniw argued Powers

David Rees, who chairs the reform committee, asked about plans for a 40% increase in the number of ministers from 12 to 17, not including the counsel general and first minister.

Mr Antoniw said the increase was a recommendation from the previous committee due to the additional responsibilities gained by the Senedd in recent years.

He told members there is a need for greater ministerial accountability and accessibility, with the Welsh Government planning for the devolution of parts of the justice system.

Pressed on powers in the bill for 19 ministers in future, Mr Antoniw stressed that the Welsh Government would become smaller as a proportion of the Senedd than currently.

He told the committee the powers would require MSs’ consent.

‘Political gain’ Mr Rees warned that the two extra two ministerial positions could be used as part of bargaining around a coalition after an election.

He said: “It’s not

really a requirement of function or need – it’s more a requirement of political gain,” suggesting that a twothirds majority should be required for the powers.

Mr Antoniw pointed out that no party has held a majority since the Senedd was founded in 1999 and the powers could give stability to the government by facilitating cooperation.

He said: “I’m speculating that that might happen, it may well never, but it is not the core purpose of the need to increase ministerial capacity.”

Vacancies Asked how empty seats would be filled, Mr Antoniw described the chances of problems arising as remote despite a high turnover of members during the previous Senedd term.

He explained that the next person on the party’s eight-name list would be elected but the bill does not provide a mechanism for replacing an independent member.

He cautioned that holding by-elections would “sacrifice” the proportionality of the system.

Mr Rees pointed out that any by-election can

change the balance of a parliament.

The Labour backbencher also raised concerns about the lack of a recall system if, as an example, a member was involved in crime.

Mr Antoniw said there is no simple way of including a recall system in the legislation, saying the Welsh Government will consider the standards commissioner’s recommendations.

Constituencies Darren Millar questioned the 10% margin in the number of voters for each constituency, which is twice as much as allowed for Westminster elections.

The Conservative said the electorate could vary by as much as 30,000 voters between constituencies from 2030, giving some more or less of a democratic say than others.

Mr Millar, who resigned from a previous reform committee, also raised concerns about a 12-13% threshold to be elected – almost twice as much as currently.

Mr Antoniw told MSs that the 10% margin was chosen to give greater flexibility for the new Democracy and

Boundary Commission Cymru.

“The intention isn’t to create constituencies of different sizes,” he said.

Residency Mr Millar criticised the use of council electoral registers in the eligibility criteria for candidates, warning that the rules could be circumvented.

Mr Antoniw recognised concerns about second home owners or people moving after being elected but he cautioned that ministers cannot allow for every contingency.

“No system is absolutely perfect,” he said.

He told MSs that using the electoral register is the most logical, clear and simple system, creating as few loopholes as possible.

He argued against calls for a grace period.

Asked about the tight timetable, the counsel general said everything must be in place six months before the 2026 Senedd election.

At the end of the committee meeting on Wednesday December 13, Mr Antoniw said: “I’m looking forward to not discussing closed lists over the Christmas period.”

POLITICS 67

Friday November 24th 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

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Pressure mounts as apprenticeship cuts announced

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT is under huge pressure to safeguard apprenticeship funding following deep cuts announced in today’s draft budget which could result in around 10,000 fewer apprentices, the The National Federation for Wales suggests.

E m p l o y e r s ’ representatives, including the FSB and CBI, have signed an open letter to First Minister Mark Drakeford outlining their deep concerns about the proposed 24.2% cuts – the equivalent of £35 million – to apprenticeships for 2024-’25.

They want to know why all the money they pay to the apprenticeship levy is not being invested in apprentices, with claims that more than £80m is being spent elsewhere.

The proposed cuts are a combination of a 3.65% reduction in the apprenticeship budget and the loss of previous European Union funding, which pre-dated the

apprenticeship levy.

Employers pay 0.5% of their total annual pay bill to the levy.

The cuts are on top of £17.5m recently slashed from apprenticeships by the Welsh Government.

The National Federation for Wales (NTFW), who represent training providers, are joining employers in calling for an urgent review by the Welsh Government before irreversible damage is done to its flagship apprenticeship programme.

They want to know: Are employers getting value for money from paying the apprenticeship levy, estimated to be worth £190m a year to the Welsh Government?

What has happened to Economy Minister Vaughan Gethin’s pledge, in March this year, of an extra £36m to cover the loss of European funding for apprenticeships?

Detailed research undertaken by workbased training providers, who deliver apprenticeships in Wales, has revealed

that levy paying employers are being short-changed by more than £80m a year.

The NTFW warns that the cuts threaten hundreds of jobs in the work-based learning sector. They want the Welsh Government to provide the necessary transition funding – replacing the money lost from the European Union following Brexit – to benefit learners, skills development, productivity and business growth in Wales.

“Despite contrasting messages from the Welsh Government, demand for apprenticeships remains strong from learners and employers, and we urge Welsh Government to reconsider the proposed cuts which could have catastrophic consequences for Wales,” said Lisa Mytton, the NTFW’s strategic director.

“Notwithstanding the value for money questions surrounding the levy payments, there is also growing concern that the cuts

will impact the sectors most in need of a skilled workforce, including health and social care.

“The network has been told that the budget for degree apprenticeships will be increased.

Yet the data shows that degree apprenticeships recruit fewer learners from disadvantaged areas compared to real apprenticeships.

“Yet again, those most disengaged and disadvantaged in our society will be hit by the huge cuts.

“Some are questioning how the minister prioritised skills and young people in his recent economic mission statement whilst preparing to slash the apprenticeship budget. Like all NTFW members, employers consider his statement to contradict the reality of the situation and want to know what his new priorities are.

“Skills and further education are fundamental to our economic recovery. The time to invest in our learners and workers is now.”

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Friday December 22th 2023 For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

Death Notices

Rita Davies DAVIES Rita Solva Peacefully on December 15th, Rita of Solva. A dearly loved sister to Gail and Robert, and the late Jean and Byron. A much loved Aunty, relative and friend.

Funeral Service Thursday 4th January at 10.45am at Parc Gwyn, Narberth.

Donations if desired for “Shalom” c/o W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, 62 New Street, St.Davids, SA62 6SU

Joan Shires SHIRES Joan Lamphey The death occurred peacefully at The South Pembs Hospital on Wednesday 6th. December of Mrs. Joan Shires of Westhill, Lamphey. The devoted wife of Graham, Joan was 90 and will be greatly missed by all her family and many friends. The funeral will take place on Friday 22nd December with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 1.45.pm. Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu for Joan’s chosen charities may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying

out the arrangements.

Ivor William Godsmark GODSMARK Mr. Ivor William Pembroke The death occurred peacefully at Apley Lodge Care Home, Pembroke Dock on Saturday 9th December 2023 of Mr Ivor William Godsmark, aged 90 years of Pembroke. Ivor was a member of Pembroke Male Voice Choir and will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. The funeral service will take place on Friday 5th January 2024 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 12.15pm. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if so desired for Pembroke Male Voice Choir c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 & Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876.

Ramon Robert Rooke ROOKE Ramon Robert (Ray) Milford Haven The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Thursday 14th December of Ramon Robert ‘Ray’ Rooke, aged 88 years of Bay View Drive, Milford Haven. Dearly loved husband of Jean, devoted

father to Kathleen and her husband Mark, and a cherished grandfather and great grandfather.

The funeral service will take place on Friday 22nd December at 10.00am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

David Ronald Jordan ‘Dicky’ JORDAN David Ronald “Dicky” Pembroke Dock The death occurred suddenly but peacefully at Ashdale Care Home, Pembroke on Friday, 1st December of Mr. Dicky Jordan, formerly of Pembroke Dock. He was 68.

The funeral will take place on Thursday 21st. December with a service at Llanion Cemetery, Pembroke Dock, where friends please meet.

Flowers will be welcome and may be brought to the service or sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

Josephine Ann ( Jo) MBE Pringle PRINGLE Josephine Ann MBE “Jo” At home near Tenby on 10th December 2023 aged 94. Dearly loved

by Stephen, Linda and David and stalwart of RDA. Funeral at Manorbier Church at 11am on 22nd December 2023. Family flowers only please, donations in lieu if desired to PDSA www.

justgiving.com/page/jopringle-1702314012988 Terry Sillick SILLICK Terry Saundersfoot Phyllis and family wish to sincerely thank the family, friends and neighbours for the many kind messages, cards, flowers, cakes and sympathy they received during their recent sad loss of Terry-this has

given them so much comfort. Thanks also to Mr Michael Ashbridge for his support and the thoughtful ceremony, also the Sports and Social club for the lovely refreshments after the funeral. Special thanks to Stewart Treharne and all at EC Thomas and Son for all their help and support in carrying out the funeral arrangements.

Pause for thought...

For once I got the answer right. I was chatting to a senior church leader, and he told me story of a recent conversation that took place between his wife and a pupil in a her music class.

When asked what she had done on the previous Sunday she replied ‘I went to church’. At which point my friend said ‘So, tell me Rob, what did the child say in response, because no one’s come up with the right answer yet?’

It was clear that my reputation was on the line and so I gave it a little thought.

‘What is church?’ I replied, and much to his amazement (and my obvious delight) he told me that I had ‘got it in one’.

I wasn’t surprised though. It was to be expected given our post Christian culture.

It’s for this very reason my wife and I are committed to reaching out to a generation that is in danger of growing up ignorant of the greatest love story this world has ever heard.

And we can’t take the church out of the story even if there are times when its behaviour makes the story sound far less credible and relevant to those who need to hear it. But let’s make no mistake about it, the church needs to share that story and to live in a way that people find appealing.

As one prominent Christian leader said recently ‘Young people are often uninterested in the question ‘Does God exist?’ but are often fiercely invested in issues around justice and equality.

We need to start there and point them to the ways in which only Christianity can make sense of that moral instinct and the stories they are telling themselves’.

C h r i s t m a s can make a vital contribution to this ongoing debate. Way back in the 8th century BC the prophet Isaiah dreamt of an ideal King who would inaugurate a universal age of peace and justice.

Christmas, the time of year when church celebrates the

fact that this King was born in a small village known as Bethlehem some 2000 years ago.

As current events only go to show, His Kingdom has not been fully realised yet, but we can be sure it will happen because following His public execution He was raised to life again and He has promised to return to complete the job.

Having said that, this dream is not just a future hope it is also a continuous challenge.

That’s where the church fits into the story. It has been commissioned to share this wonderful news with a world that desperately needs to hear it, and it has been charged to do all it can to create that kind of world as it awaits His return.

And I have a strong feeling that the more it does, not least in the way it creates communities that live His way, the more people will respond favourably to its message.

A happy Christmas everyone and may God bless you all.

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LETTERS & NOTICES

send your letters to: The editor, 11 hamilton terrace, milford haven, Pembrokeshire, sa73 3al email us at: editor@herald.email

Picture of the week!

by Richard Rees

20mph safety claims in Wales

DEAR SIR,

During 2022, police recorded road collisions resulting in 4,447 casualties in Wales.

Of these casualties, 95 were fatal and 921 people were seriously injured, a decrease of 15% on 2019. 3,431 suffered slight injuries, a decrease of 26%. The overall decrease in collisions was 23.5% since 2019. Young people aged 16 to 24, 11% of the population, accounted for 22% of all casualties. The £32 million cost of altering speed limits from 30 to 20mph across cities, towns, villages and hamlets across Wales will, according to the Welsh Government, save up to 100 lives and 20,000 casualties over the next decade - useful round numbers. While saving around 10% of deaths, Wales will save 45% of casualties - a strange calculation indeed. If we use 2022 as a base with 4,500 casualties and 100 deaths, and assume that the current

figures are a good baseline, there would be 45,000 casualties and 1,000 deaths (most outside inhabited areas) over the next 10 years. Even if we look at deaths rising by 5% pa, road deaths would be 178 in year 10 - with just 10 lives saved per annum, a worse statistic than we have today.

In the 2020 questionnaire leading to the new law, one question was ‘What concerns do you have about roads and road safety and getting about where you live?’ The main spontaneous answers were ‘Potholes / roads in poor state of repair’ 35% and ‘Speeding traffic / cars driving too fast’ 16%.

A ‘leading question’ was ‘Would you support a speed limit of 20mph in the area in which you live?’ which would lead to a biased answer. Checking my car and with local garages, a petrol car driven at 30mph in 4th gear proceeds at 1,500 rpm, around the same engine turnover as in a car in 3rd gear traveling at 20mph. Thus in towns and villages, car emissions will be 50% higher in the extra time taken to travel at 20mph. Pollution will thus be 50% worse in these areas, causing higher death rates.

So much for the claim of saving the Welsh NHS £92 million a year, as cancers and lung-related illnesses will accelerate death rates in 20mph areas. One does not expect publication of the statistics upon which accident casualties in Wales were predicted, nor another £32 million being spent upon reinstating 30mph areas.

Terry Breverton FRHistS FRSA FIC FCIM

Start 2024 in the best way with Dry January DEAR SIR,

The festive season brings excitement for many, but it can also be a time of indulgence, and perhaps drinking more alcohol than we would like. As we head into a new year, many people will be wanting to feel a little fitter and healthier.

In fact, our research shows that one in four of us would like to drink less alcohol in 2024, and one in six UK adults (16%) plan to take a break from alcohol this January.

Dry January is the perfect place to start! It shows us that we don’t need alcohol to have fun, relax, celebrate, unwind or anything else. What’s more, so many people tell us they have an even better time when not drinking alcohol, as they feel more present, can remember the evening more, and enjoy waking up hangover-free, feeling fresh and energetic.

We know that taking that first step to change habits can be hard, but research shows that those who take part in Dry January from Alcohol Change UK double their chances of success, through access to our free Try Dry app, daily emails and a supportive online community.

A month off alcohol won’t just mean short-term boosts to your wellbeing, but has been proven to lead to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes risk, as well as lower cancer-related proteins in the blood.

So if you’re looking to make long-term changes for the better, take a look at dryjanuary.org.uk for more.

Dr Richard Piper CEO of Alcohol Change UK, the charity behind Dry January

All Kids Count

DEAR SIR,

I was shocked to learn, via new research from the End Child Poverty Coalition, that in Vale of Glamorgan there are 5718 children living in poverty, which equals 25.0% of all children.

Across the UK this figure is 29 per cent.

It is concerning to me that UK children are growing up in homes where they go without meals, appropriate clothing or heating.

This research not only details where children are growing up in poverty, but which families are most likely to be experiencing this. The report finds that between 2021/22 across the UK: • 71% of children who were in poverty after housing costs, and 67% of those who were in poverty before housing costs, were in a family where at least one adult was working • 44% of children in lone parent families are in poverty after housing costs.

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Friday December 22th 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

This is compared with just 25% of children in couple parent families • The poverty rate for children in families with three or more children was 42%, compared with 23% and 22% among children in families with one or two children, respectively • Children living in a family where someone is disabled had a poverty rate of 36% after housing costs, compared with 25% for children living in families where no-one is disabled.

• There are persistent ethnic inequalities in child poverty across the UK, 47% of children in Asian or Asian British households, and 53% of those in Black households, were in poverty after housing costs. This is compared with just 25% of those where the head of household was white.

I understand that in order to address the increasing numbers of children in poverty, the End Child Poverty Coalition are calling for an end to the two-child limit to benefit payments, as part of their All Kids Count campaign. If the government were to scrap this policy which prevents larger families from claiming child related benefits for their third or subsequent child, 250,000 children would immediately be lifted out of poverty.

Nigel Jones

For up to date news please check our social network channels

Advertising of Conservative Economics DEAR SIR,

The visual Advertising of Conservative Economics has been aimed at British children on TV and mobile phone screens for the last two generations, hostile to all educated, civilised values, to make them selfcentred consumers.

But some educated teenagers may learn from the present splintering of Conservatism, its separate parts.

Only adults with no moral principles like Honesty, ever voted Tory in the last 200 years, when Conservatives alone, despised by Quakers and Methodists, in Britain and United States, supported the return of Slavery, 1500 years after Romans departed. Whigs eventually bribed Tories to change.

Britain is the only nation on Earth still governed by 91 hereditary aristocrats in the House of Lords, as 900 years ago.

But 14 million voters chose Conservatism in 2019, out of ignorance, never discovering higher purposes in Life. Naturally, Conservative MP’s cannot be persuaded, since moral principles mean nothing.

The most obvious caucus in Conservatism,

are Libertarians, who bravely dismiss inoculation, and knowingly infect fellow citizens with viruses, ‘Free’ from any obligation to anyone.

This bravery is based upon ignorance of virology in this universe, and colossal conceit.

Liz Truss instigated an economic form of that, that each of us will keep what we have got, rich and poor, investing money, but rejecting any sense of mutual obligation.

The great philosopher, J.S. Mill, taught Liberalism, from which the Political Party was born, that Democracy cannot entitle a majority to criminalise redheads or homosexuals, for being a minority.

Yet, in 2023, Right wing, uneducated, Populist yobs, warped by Tory Gutter Media and Commerce, in developing minds when children, claim their mindless numbers as valid Authority.

‘Freedom’ is the weasel word of Tories, to distort thinking of millions of dull, self-centred adults.

C. N. Westerman,

Telephone Companion Service DEAR SIR,

Christmas can be challenging for many of us,

but for families experiencing dying, death or bereavement it can often feel impossible.

People who are grieving may find the festive season particularly tough and emotionally draining, as that’s when we often miss our loved ones the most.

Many families may also be facing the last Christmas with a loved one or the first without them, and not know where to turn to help get them through the season.

Marie Curie is here for anyone with an illness they’re likely to die from, and those close to them.

Our free support line and webchat is open over the festive season, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, offering practical and emotional support on everything from symptom management and day-to-day care to financial information and bereavement support.

Our trained Support Line Officers are there if you need support or a listening ear, as well as our Telephone Companion service that offers regular calls at a time that suits you.

If you need support over Christmas and New Year, please encourage them to contact Marie Curie for free on 0800 090 2309.

Alternatively, visit mariecurie.org.uk/ support to chat online.

Matt Williams

Marie Curie Associate Director, Information and Support

Dogs Trust

DEAR SIR,

With Christmas almost upon us, I wanted to send a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported Dogs Trust during what has been another challenging year for pet owners across the UK. We have received more than 40,000 enquiries this year from people who sadly felt they had no other option but to hand their dog into our care. As a dog owner myself, I understand only too well what a heartbreaking decision it can be to have to give up your dog, which is why we have tried to support as many dog owners as possible through initiatives including our pet food banks and free-to-access Behaviour Support Line.

Despite the many challenges we’re still facing, it heartens me to say that we also continue to witness the best in human nature from our dog loving nation. This year we have found homes for over 10,000 dogs of all breeds and ages, including almost 400 puppies born in Dogs Trust’s care.

To everyone who has

welcomed a new fourlegged friend into their family by adopting from Dogs Trust, thank you.

Earlier this year we issued a plea for more volunteer foster carers to come forward to offer temporary homes to some of the dogs in our care.

Kind-hearted members of the public responded in their thousands, and we are now able to offer many more dogs somewhere safe and secure to stay while they wait for their forever home.

Other volunteers continue to support our work by taking on incredible fundraising challenges and by regularly giving up their time to support the staff at our rehoming centres. It simply would not be possible to achieve all that we do for the dogs in our care without this support – so thank you.

As we approach a new year, our dedicated staff and volunteers remain committed to making tomorrow’s world a better place for all dogs so they can live full, safe and happy lives. On behalf of everyone at Dogs Trust, I’d like to wish all our supporters a very Happy New Year, one in which we look forward to helping many more dogs find their forever homes.

For further information about our work and our dogs, please go to www. dogstrust.org.uk Owen Sharp, CEO, Dogs Trust

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Spotlight – Fishguard Sports Manager Phil Jones Earlier this week we spoke to Fishguard Sports manager Phil Jones to get his thoughts on the season so far. As it’s Christmas he even treated us to his all time Pembrokeshire League XI too..

beneficial to the team and add to that the fact that he’s such a nice guy.

Left Wing: Charlie Davies Left of an attacking three would be another one of my junior successes. Now at one of Nicholas’ previous clubs in Cinderford Town and scoring goals for fun, here we have Alan’s boy Charlie Davies and his wand of a left peg.

Herald: Firstly, how would you reflect on the season so far. A tough one so far for you, did you expect to be in a bit of a relegation fight before the season began?

Phil: We finished last season in 10th place and that was (and still is) my minimum target for this season. Whether I expected a relegation battle was perhaps a realistic evaluation but we’re certainly in one now. The division is much stronger for everyone in that there are no easy games and with the majority of teams I honestly think that there is not much to choose between them Herald:September seemed a tough month for you, however since that you’ve had some positives even in defeat?

Narrowly losing to Goodwick stands out, as well as a good cup win.

Would you say you’re improving?

SPORT

Phil: I thought our start was especially hard as four of our first five games were away.

We were poor the last 30 minutes at Milford United and the last 60 at Goodwick getting thumped on both occasions.

Other than that we have competed well in all games but our performances haven’t realised in the league the points we perhaps deserved.

I can think of a few times when things haven’t gone our way like leading Monkton at home 2-1 with 20 minutes to go and losing 3-2; behind 2-1 against Clarbeston

Striker: Peter Nash

Road and having the best of it but conceding the next goal to lose 3-1 and as you mention Goodwick at home – still in the game with 10 to go but again conceding to lose 2-0.

The table doesn’t lie but I honestly believe we have a chance to turn things around.

The shining light of our season so far has been our performances in the West Wales Cup. We have played at our best on 3 occasions against teams from the Neath area (2 away from home) and along with 6 other Pembrokeshire teams are in the last 16.

As far as hopes and expectations for the remainder of the season I trust we can find the answer to our league difficulties, put in some decent performances, get more points on the board and strive to get to that elusive 10th position.

A run in the Senior Cup would be nice (although St Ishmaels may have other ideas) and a Home Draw in the West Wales Cup. I’m not asking for much am I haha.

Herald: And finally as it’s Christmas, you’ve been a very well respected and successful coach in Pembrokeshire a long

time now if you don’t mind me saying. If you had to pick your best ever Pembs 11 for a game on Boxing Day let’s say, what would it be?

Phil: GK Nicholas Jones In goal I would have my youngest boy – he’s Nick or Nicky to all but he’ll always be Nicholas to me.

Currently at Carmarthen Town he provides a safe pair of hands, good feet, vocal (I wonder where he gets that from) and a re-assuring presence between the sticks.

Full Backs Matthew Divry and Lee Hudgell.

A pair of marauding full backs in Matthew D’Ivry and Lee Hudgell. Both previous managers of Merlins Bridge who are still playing and who I have the utmost respect for.

Centre Backs Nigel Delaney and Patrick Hughes My centre backs would be Nigel Delaney and Patrick ‘Chesney’ Hughes.

Nigel has won all you can win in local football and his experience would shine through. Ches is my Captain and right hand

man at Fishguard and the sort of individual you would want at your side if you had to go to war Midfield: Alan Davies.

Nathan Thomas. Matthew Delaney.

My midfield 3 combines experience and youth.

First there is Alan Davies with his combative and industrious style who very rarely came off second best.

Next would be Nathan Thomas who is the epitome of what Merlins Bridge is all about.

His competitive edge alongside Alan would ensure most midfield battles would be won and they would cover when Divs and Hudge bombed forward.

Completing the midfield would be Matthew Delaney.

Now back at Goodwick I coached Mattie for most of his junior career and he has developed into a fine box to box player who can finish if given the opportunity Right Wing: Adrian Haworth On the right would be a Pembrokeshire legend who won titles galore in Adrian Haworth. His pace and goal scoring exploits would be

Leading the line would be my old team mate from our time at Crundale, Peter Nash.

He moved to the area from Cardiff, joined his local team and helped us through the Divisions to ‘almost’ get to Division One. He had electric pace, was a brilliant finisher, is a true friend and could have played at a much higher level.

An 11 of family and friends that would make others sit up and take notice.

Add to that a bench containing Laurie; Will and Joe Haworth; Scott Delaney and Peter Thomas.

As manager I’d have Fishguard’s Gareth ‘Mad Dog’ McKenzie and Matthew Griffiths as my Assistants and a supportive Chairman in Jon Luke.

I’d like to end by wishing all players and officials in the Pembrokeshire football community a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

We’ll all be back at it in January.’

Thanks to Phil for taking the time to share his thoughts with us. That team would take some beating and I’m sure will spark debate up and down the county this festive break.

For more county sport please visit www.pembrokeshire-herald.com

SPORT 77

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For up to date news please check our social network channels

Manderwood Pembrokeshire league DIVISION 1

P

W

D

L

GD

Pts

Hakin United

11

8

3

0

+14

27

Goodwick United

10

8

2

0

+39

26

Merlins Bridge

12

5

3

4

+13

18

Clarbeston Road

10

6

0

4

-6

18

Monkton Swifts

13

4

5

4

+3

Milford United

11

4

3

4

Tenby

10

4

3

Pennar Robins

11

3

Neyland

13

Kilgetty

Fixtures

Results

No fixtures this week

16th December DIVISION 1

Carew

3

4

Clarbeston Road

17

Fishguard Sports

2

3

Milford United

+5

15

Pennar Robins

1

2

Monkton Swifts

3

+1

15

Tenby

1

2

Neyland

3

5

-8

12

-

-

-

-

3

3

7

-28

12

-

-

-

-

8

3

1

4

-6

10

Carew

11

2

2

7

-3

8

Camrose

2

3

Herbrandston

Fishguard Sports

10

0

2

8

-24

2

St Clears

3

3

Carew II

DIVISION 2

P

W

D

L

GD

Pts

-

-

-

-

Monkton Swifts II

13

10

2

1

+39

32

-

-

-

-

Herbrandston

12

9

3

0

+25

30

-

-

-

-

Merlins Bridge II

14

9

2

3

+17

29

-

-

-

-

Narberth

11

7

1

3

+19

22

Hakin United II

15

6

4

5

-3

22

Angle

2

3

Camrose II

Camrose

14

4

5

5

+5

17

St Ishmaels

11

4

3

4

+7

15

Johnston

10

3

3

4

+7

12

Broad Haven

12

2

4

6

-20

10

St Clears

12

1

5

6

-16

8

Carew II

14

1

3

10

-26

6

Cosheston

10

0

1

9

-54

1

DIVISION 3

P

W

D

L

GD

Goodwick Utd II

12

8

1

3

+27

Solva

12

8

1

3

Lawrenny

8

8

0

Neyland II

12

6

3

St Florence

10

5

Pennar Robins II

14

Letterston

Christmas break

DIVISION 2

DIVISION 3 Carew III

4

0

Fishguard Sports II

Milford Athletic

3

3

Tenby II

Milford United

1

2

Prendergast Villa

N H & Saundersfoot

8

4

Newport Tigers

-

-

-

-

DIVISION 4 Angle

2

5

Monkton Swifts III

Newport Tigers

9

0

Fishguard Sports II

Pts

-

-

-

-

25

-

-

-

-

+9

25

-

-

-

-

0

+24

24

-

-

-

-

3

+7

21

DIVISION 5

1

4

+3

16

Haverfordwest CC II

1

4

Pembroke Boro II

5

0

9

-15

15

Herbrandston II

3

2

Broad Haven II

12

4

2

6

-3

14

Hundleton

8

0

St Clears II

Clarbeston Road II

11

4

0

7

-6

12

Letterston II

2

0

Cosheston II

Haverfordwest CC

8

3

1

4

-7

10

Manorbier United 13

0

Milford Athletic II

Pendine

8

3

0

5

-2

9

Narberth II

2

Johnston II

Pembroke Boro

11

2

2

7

-12

8

Kilgetty II

10

2

1

7

-25

7

DIVISION 5

P

W

D

L

GD

Pts

DIVISION 4

P

W

D

L

GD

Pts

Hundleton

13

11

2

0

+72

35

Camrose II

12

10

0

2

+32

30

Pembroke Boro II

13

8

2

3

+30

26

Newport Tigers

11

9

0

2

+20

27

Narberth II

11

8

2

1

+23

26

Tenby II

10

8

2

0

+25

26

Johnston II

13

7

2

4

+26

23

N H & Sfoot

10

8

0

2

+23

24

Haverfordwest CC II

13

7

1

5

+23

22

Monkton Swifts III

13

6

0

7

+3

18

Manorbier United

11

6

3

2

+29

21

Angle

13

6

0

7

+1

18

St Clears II

12

7

0

5

+4

21

Fishguard Spts II

13

4

1

8

-25

13

Herbrandston II

14

6

0

8

-11

18

St Ishmaels II

10

3

2

5

-3

11

Letterston II

16

3

3

10

-31

12

Prendergast Villa

11

3

2

6

-17

11

Broad Haven II

11

3

2

6

-21

11

Milford United

11

2

1

8

-5

7

Milford Athletic II

11

3

0

8

-46

9

Milford Athletic

11

2

1

8

-18

7

Lawrenny II

12

2

1

9

-33

7

Carew III

11

2

1

8

-36

7

Cosheston II

10

0

0

10

-65

0

4

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Pembrokeshire League Football Round Up Goals galore in Pembrokeshire yesterday as local teams battled it out in tough conditions underfoot.

Herbrandston with a brilliant comeback, seven goals at Carew and the Swifts have the bragging rights south of the River Cleddau.

We begin in division one where a goal and an assist from Ben Steele meant Monkton Swifts came from behind to beat local rivals Pennar Robins 2-1. The visitors took the lead through Willis, before Steele levelled the scores after 41 minutes. There were yellow cards aplenty in

the second half in what was a fiery affair, the winning goal came after 66 minutes, assisted by Steele and finished by Davies. A much needed win for the Swifts and one I’m sure was sweater than most this season so far.

At the Gerald Hicks Memorial Ground, Carew and Clarbeston Road shared 7 goals in a great game. The visitors opened the scoring through Laurie Haworth before Marcus Griffiths equalised after 25 minutes. A goal for Booth ensured Clarby went into the break 2-1 ahead. After the

oranges a brace for Ben ‘Rocky’ John, meant the visitors were 4-1 up and three points looked inevitable.

However Izzard and Griffiths both struck back for the hosts as they showed good character, Fox’ team however defended well and came out 4-3 winners.

Elsewhere in the first division Neyland got themselves a much needed win, beating Tenby 2-1. Morgans Hurley struck the deciding goal for the black and whites just after the break. After a good start Tenby have had a bit of a wobble

and will be looking over their shoulders a bit now heading into Christmas.

Milford United were victorious on the road, they beat struggling Fishguard Sports 3-2.

A brace for Armstrong either side of the break and a goal for Parks put them 3-0 up. A penalty and late goal improved the score line for the hosts, however the table looks ominous for them, rock bottom just just two points.

Just the two games in the second division, however neither lacked goals or excitement.

Herbrandston’s unbeaten league

season looked in serious jeopardy after 45 minutes as they were 2-0 to Camrose.

Raymond and Llewelyn two youth products of the hosts had put them into a commanding position. However the second half began and Plunkett pulled one back for Galdo’s men, before Camrose were reduced to ten men, Jordan Williams was sent for an early shower. Promotion chasing Herbie smelt an opportunity, and grasped it with both hands, Adam Whatling scoring as he continues to impress and Plunkett getting his second. The

game ended Camrose 2-3 Herbrandston.

Importantly for the league table, Galdo’s men are now two points behind leaders Monkton Swifts Reserves but with a game in hand.

At the opposite end of the table St Clears and Carew Reserves shared six goals and the points.

The stand out player was youngster Finlay Drummond who scored all three goals for the Rooks.

Both teams however sit second and third bottom of the league, a turn around in form is desperately needed by both outfits.

Pembroke Win Derby, Narberth Unstoppable – Rugby Round Up Despite very wet conditions underfoot there was plenty of rugby played around the county.

We take a look at some of the stand out performances and talking points.

Pembroke Dock Quins Vs Pembroke the absolute stand out fixture in any fixture list.

The Quins went into this game with every chance of getting the better of their local rivals who in recent years have far outperformed them. As predicted it was tough conditions for running rugby and wasn’t a game for the pursuits. The visitors made the best of the conditions however and thanks to tries from Billy Kinnear and Craig Williamson both from close range secured the bragging rights for the Scarlets. Jack Price was always a threat for the hosts as always, and fellow centre Gethin Bradney got the hosts only try. The match ended Quins 7-12 Pembroke, not much to choose between these teams this year. Most importantly there was a very healthy crowd at Bierspool and a great advert for local rugby.

Elsewhere Narberth look absolutely unstoppable in the

Championship.

Tata Steel made the journey West to take on the Otters. A few hours later they made the somber journey home after conceding 76 points at the hands of the Pembrokeshire based team, a huge points total at this level in particular.

Narberth rotated the squad having already beaten Tata comfortably

this year and star player Lewys Gibby was a replacement, not the sight any visiting team wants to see. He was introduced in what was his 100th cap for the Otters and he managed to grab a hat-rick in the limited time he had.

This sums his career and form up at the minute an absolutely excellent player. Sutton

(2), James (2), Rees, Clarke, Hamer, Evans and Williams isn’t a list of common surnames but the Narberth try scorers.

Ianto Griffiths added eight conversions, as the Otters take the top spot in the championship and are 11 and 0, for the season for far to put it in boxing terms.

In the weekends other fixtures Tenby continue

to impress in the second division as they ran out 3317 winners as they hosted Mumbles at Haywood Lane.

Milford Haven however in the same division were on the losing end of a 22-14 result as they hosted Carmarthen Athletic who were boosted by former Carmarthen Quins star Jack Maynard.

In division three Neyland and Llangwm

both on the wrong end of results against Ceredigion based opponents. Neyland lost 36-10 to Cardigan who are a very strong outfit this season, this result is a very respectable one for the All Blacks. The Wasps hosted Aberaeron and were unable to respond to the visitors 45 points in what was a tough day at Pill Parks.

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