The Pembrokeshire Herald 12/07/2024 by The Pembrokeshire Herald

FamIlY PaY TrIbuTe To ‘beauTIFul and amazing’ Sophie • p3

Family pay tribute to ‘beautiful and amazing’ Sophie

THE FAMILY of a woman who died following an incident in Carmarthenshire have paid tribute, describing her as ‘beautiful in every way’.

Sophie Evans, aged 30, died on Friday, July 5 at Bigyn Road, Llanelli.

Her family has issued the following statement: “Our beautiful and amazing sister and daughter Sophie was tragically taken from us, and our lives will never be the same.

“We are heartbroken by our loss.

“Our Sophie, only 30 years young, will be greatly missed by us all.

“She was a loving mother to her two girls, who she adored with all her heart. An amazing sister, who was the rock of our family. So bright and funny, always making us laugh.

“Sophie was a loving daughter, with a huge heart, who we all adored.

“She lived life to the fullest, and will be remembered for being so kind and caring to her loved ones.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

“Sophie loved spending time with her children and family, had a passion for beauty therapy, and enjoyed keeping up with her fitness and the latest

fashion trends.

“We would like to thank everyone for their support at this horrific time. It has meant a lot to the whole family.

“We would now like time to grieve, and ask to be given privacy in which to do so.”

Dyfed-Powys Police continues to investigate the circumstances around Sophie’s death, and specialist officers are supporting her family.

A man was arrested on suspicion of murder on Friday, July 5, and remains in police custody.

New Older People’s Commissioner announced

The First Minister has announced the appointment of Rhian Bowen-Davies as the new Older People’s Commissioner for Wales

Rhian is recognised as an expert chair of Domestic Homicide Reviews involving older people and was Wales’ first National Adviser for Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence. She will take up the post

in September, when Heléna Herklots’ term as Commissioner comes to an end.

In 2008, Wales became the first country in the world to appoint an Older People’s Commissioner. The Commissioner has a range of legal powers to help safeguard and promote the interests of older people.

First Minister Vaughan Gething said: m“Our shared vision is of a Wales

that enables people to live and age well, where ageism does not limit people’s potential in their later years.

“I’m pleased to appoint Rhian to the role, who will bring with her extensive experience in shaping policy and driving forward improvements to be a strong advocate for older people.

“I would also like to extend my thanks to Heléna Herklots, whose work, particularly during

the pandemic, enabled the voices of some of the most marginalised people to be heard and to influence policy for the better.”

Charged with multiple charges against children

A MILFORD HAVEN man is attending court on Tuesday (Jul 9), to face a number of serious charges.

Alan Roberts, 73, of Picton Road, Hakin, Milford Haven aces multiple charges of indecent assault and gross indecency involving girls under the age of 14, alleged to have occurred over several decades in Hakin, Milford Haven.

The youngest is alleged to have been just five or six years old.

The hearing, set for 10:00 AM, will address numerous counts of indecent assault under the Sexual Offences Act 1956, as well as gross indecency under the Indecency with Children Act 1960. These alleged offences involve multiple complainants and span significant periods, dating back to incidents allegedly occurring between 1976 and 2018.

Specifically,

Roberts is accused of indecently assaulting complainants on no fewer than five occasions each between 14 June 1977 and 15 June 1981, and between 30 September 1981 and 1 October 1982. Another series of allegations point to incidents between 10 March 2000 and 11 March 2001, and two further incidents are claimed to have occurred between 11 February 2009 and 11 February 2010, and between 28 July 2017 and 29 July 2018. The charges encompass a total of 23 counts of indecent assault and gross indecency. The maximum penalty for each charge is up to six months imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.

The identities of the complainants are protected under Section 1 of the Sexual Offences Amendment Act 1992.

Several injured in terrifying incident on theme park ride

A ROUTINE day at Oakwood Theme Park took a horrifying turn yesterday when the park’s ‘Bounce’ ride malfunctioned, resulting in multiple injuries. The popular drop tower ride experienced a sudden and catastrophic failure, plummeting to the ground during a scheduled emergency stop, and causing panic among the 20 riders onboard.

Witnesses reported hearing terrified screams as the 147ft-tall ride malfunctioned. The ride, which is designed to give thrill-seekers a stomach-churning drop, unexpectedly plunged from about halfway up, sending the lift hurtling towards the ground. Among the riders were several children, many of whom were described as “school-age.” Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with children “screaming and crying” as the ride’s descent accelerated.

One unnamed guest who was on the ride during the incident said, “It fell to the

floor without slowing down. Children were screaming and crying as the ride went up and down a few times before it fell quickly to the ground from about halfway up the tower.”

Following the abrupt stop, the park’s emergency protocols were activated. Onsite first aiders quickly attended to the injured, with around eight individuals receiving immediate medical attention at the park. Four others were transported to a local hospital for further treatment. The nature of their injuries is not fully known, but initial reports indicated cases of lower back pain and shock.

Describing the park’s handling of the situation, the guest claimed it was “awful,” noting that assistance seemed limited to those who actively complained of pain. “There have been no apologies from the park,” they added. “They only gave information for guest relations because

we asked for it to take it further after the fact we were told no management was available.”

Oakwood Theme Park, the largest theme park in Wales, which opened in 1987, has since issued a statement regarding the incident. “During operation today our drop tower ride Bounce experienced a programmed emergency stop procedure in response to the ride drop height,” the statement read. “The stoppage of the passenger gondola was attended to by our park team and the ride was lowered to the ground where guests were able to disembark. A number of guests reported minor lower back pain immediately after the occurrence and were attended to by our onsite team of first aiders, where assistance was provided. One group sought additional treatment locally, whilst others continued their day at the park. We have closed Bounce whilst we consult with the ride manufacturer.”

Bounce, a prominent feature at Oakwood, had

only recently reopened in 2022 following a significant £400,000 refurbishment. The ride, known for its gravity-defying and stomach-lurching drops, had been closed since 2016 and was originally slated to reopen in 2019. However, the pandemic caused further delays, pushing the reopening to last year.

This incident is not the first time Oakwood has faced scrutiny over ride safety. In October 2022, the park made headlines when a man was hospitalised after falling out of a carriage on the Treetops roller coaster. Despite this, the Health and Safety Executive found no faults with the equipment, and no action was taken against the park.

Tragically, in April 2004, 16-year-old Hayley Williams from Pontypool died after falling 100ft from Oakwood’s Hydro Ride. Her death led to calls for stricter safety regulations in theme parks across the UK.

An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the Bounce malfunction. Park officials have stated that they are working closely with the ride’s manufacturer to ensure such an incident does not occur again. In the meantime, Bounce remains closed to the public.

The incident has raised serious concerns among visitors and the local community regarding the safety protocols at Oakwood Theme Park. As the investigation continues, many will be watching closely to see how the park addresses these concerns and what measures will be put in place to prevent future accidents.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Sad to see the decline of our local theme park

THE RECENT malfunction of the Bounce at Oakwood has ignited a wave of public outcry and concern over the safety standards at Wales’ largest amusement park. The incident, which left several riders with injuries, has drawn strong reactions from the local community and beyond, as evidenced by comments on social media platforms.

Many locals expressed their shock and frustration over the incident, highlighting long-standing issues with the park’s maintenance and safety protocols. IJ Sturley commented, “Dangerous places, maintained poorly over the years, shortcuts lead to accidents,” reflecting a sentiment shared by many about the perceived decline in the park’s upkeep.

Dylan Connolly shared his relief at avoiding the park: “When I went there it was closed and now I’m glad it was.” This sentiment was echoed by Steven Absalom, who declared, “This is why I don’t go and won’t,” underscoring a growing reluctance among locals to visit the park due to safety fears.

Several individuals have called for the park to be shut down entirely or handed over to new management. Top fan Richard Shanks bluntly stated, “Shut it down its beyond a joke the amount of times something goes wrong.” Luciana Suardi added, “There is a reason why this place is the UK’s worst rated theme park, with all the accidents that have happened there, it needs shutting down.”

Jimmy Lemon reminisced about the park’s former glory, saying, “That place’s current owners are a shambles… put off here a while ago… wish it was owned by the McNamara family again… would soon return to a jewel not a pile of Cr..!” This sentiment was supported by Andrew Clewett, who noted, “This place was run to a very high standard when it was owned by the McNamara’s. So sad to see it in its current condition. Little to no investment.”

CONCERNED PARENTs AND FORMER EMPLOYEEs

Parents with children set to visit the park expressed heightened anxiety. Kelly Griffiths

remarked, “Just what you want to hear when there’s a school trip next week. I was already apprehensive.”

Similarly, Rebecca Doble questioned the safety of future visits: “Ysgol Dyffryn Taf is on a school trip there next week. Are you sure it’s safe?”

Former employees also weighed in on the situation. Kino Wakeman, who briefly worked as a maintenance technician, warned, “Only a matter of time before another fatality 100%” highlighting potential internal issues.

Alan Boswell, another ex-employee, noted historical problems with the Bounce ride: “Always had trouble with Bounce. I worked there when it first came. Always breaking down.”

While the current state of the park drew harsh criticism, many commenters reminisced about the better days of Oakwood. Ky-Ky Goward shared, “Such a shame to see and hear it to be in the state it is now used to love going here back in the day as a kid growing up.” This nostalgic view was echoed by Sam Crowe: “Shame though I got some happy memories from childhood there.”

Motorist denies drug-driving

A NARBERTH motorist has denied driving through Templeton when his blood reading for a cocaine derivative was 771 mcg. The prescribed legal limit is 50.

The Crown claims that Shane Clews, 35, drove his Ford Focus along the A4115 on January 16 with a high reading of benzoylecgonine in his blood.

But this week his

solicitor, David James, informed District Judge Mark Layton, who was sitting at Haverfordwest magistrates court, that the reading was the result of Clews’ prescribed medication.

The matter was adjourned to September 12 when Clews’ trial will take place at Llanelli Magistrates Court. Clews, of Spring Gardens, Narberth, was released on unconditional bail.

The immediate aftermath of the incident has left many questioning the future of Oakwood Theme Park. Top fan Sarah Davies emphatically stated, “That park should be CLOSED !!!” Gem Phillips questioned, “Why is it still open?”

Carol Griffiths raised an important point about regulatory oversight: “Surely the health & safety agency’s cannot condone this place, do they ever get checked by them..?” Meanwhile, practical suggestions were offered by some, such as Trixie Trixabell Edwards: “Give it to Bluestone! I’m sure they would actually update and look after the park as it’s been a dreadful mess since pfft 10+ years ago.”

As investigations continue, it is clear that the local community’s trust in Oakwood Theme Park has been significantly shaken. The public’s demand for increased safety measures, better maintenance, or even a complete overhaul of management reflects deep concerns over the park’s ability to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Corsa driver narrowly avoids prison

A MILFORD HAVEN motorist has narrowly avoided a custodial sentence after being caught driving through Pembroke Dock after taking cannabis.

John Brunton, 39, was stopped by officers on January 5 as he drove his Vauxhall Corsa along Melville Street.

When stopped by officers for a routine check, he denied having taken drugs

“But his pupils were dilated and his speech was slurred,” Crown Prosecutor Abigail Jackson told District Judge Mark Layton who was sitting in Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

A drugs wipe proved positive and Brunton, of Central Court, Milford Haven, was taken into a police custody suite for further blood tests to be carried out.

These confirmed he had 2.5mcg of

tetrahydrocannabinol in his system – the legal limit is 2 – as well as traces of the cocaine derivative benzoylecgonine and amphetamines, however these were below the prescribed legal limit.

Brunton pleaded guilty to the charge of drug-driving. He was represented in court by Mr David James.

“My client says he hasn’t taken cocaine for a very, very long time and can’t understand how it was found in his blood,” he said.

After considering the mitigation, Judge Layton sentenced Brunton to 12 weeks in custody suspended for 12 months. He must carry out 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and was disqualified from driving for 30 months. He must pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Sacked Minister did NOT leak confirms Nation Cymru

ON WEDNEsDAY, July 11, Vaughan Gething was forced to attend the senedd to answer an urgent question about Hannah Blythyn’s dismissal from his government.

He repeated that he had established Ms Blythun was the source of a leak to NationCymru.

In a statement on NationCymru on Thursday (July 11), the media outlet’s Chief Executive, Mark Mansfield, confirmed Hannah Blythyn was not the source for its story.

The previous day, Ms Blythyn made a personal statement to the Senedd, denying she was responsible for leaking an exchange of i-Messages to NationCymru (see p11).

MSs received Mr Gething’s response to a question from Conservative Leader Andrew RT Davies in stony silence.

Over the First Minister’s right shoulder, seated in the back row of the Chamber, Ms Blythyn

reacted with disbelief to several of the Labour leader’s assertions.

Mr Gething claimed that he had called his Cabinet for a meeting to discuss the leak and - after an investigation that HE carried outsatisfied himself that the photo of the message used in the NationCymru article could only have come from Ms Blythyn’s phone.

The reactions of several Labour MSs suggested that they were waiting for him to pull the other one.

After he provided his explanation, the Conservatives proposed a motion calling for the First Minister to publish all of the evidence upon which he relied.

The motion will be debated next week.

The morning after Mr Gething addressed the Senedd, NationCymru shot his position full of holes.

Mark Mansfield

said: “As a rule, we will not enter into a public debate about who may have been the source of stories we have published

“Events of this week have, however, prompted us to consider carefully the implications of Hannah Blythyn’s statement to the Senedd on Tuesday and Vaughan Gething’s response to it on Wednesday.

He added: “We remain totally committed to protecting our sources. However, in this unprecedented situation, the board of NationCymru does not consider we can stand by and see Ms Blythyn’s reputation unjustly besmirched by the First Minister.

“No one who witnessed Ms Blythyn making her statement in the Senedd could fail to be aware of the immense impact her dismissal as a minister has had on her wellbeing. Her distress has undoubtedly been compounded by the fact that no proper investigation took

place before she was dismissed.

“Instead, the First Minister decided to bypass due process and find her summarily guilty of leaking information to NationCymru.

“Given the strong public interest and importance of this story and out of concern for Hannah Blythyn’s wellbeing, we have decided that the right thing to do is to state publicly that she was not the source of our story and that at no stage before or since its publication have we had any contact with her about it.

“We can state unequivocally that Mr Gething is not telling the truth when he suggests that he has incontrovertible evidence that Ms Blythyn was our source.

“We also think it important to remind everyone that the story we published revealed that Mr Gething, when Health Minister, told ministerial colleagues that he was deleting

“In fact, Mr Gething’s own words in the ‘leaked’ messages confirm that the discussion related to more than that.

He stated: ‘Deleting the messages in this group. They can be captured in an FOI, and I think we are all in the right place regarding the choice being made. ‘

As we have reported previously, the “choice being made” was the decision to base GCSE and A-level results on teachers’ assessments because students had been unable to sit exams because of Covid restrictions. There had been uproar about an earlier decision to base results on an algorithm.

i-Messages from a group chat because they “could be captured in an FOI”.

“We believe he has been involved in an attempt to divert attention from the fact that these were Welsh Government iMessages by suggesting that they related to a discussion that had taken place in the Labour Senedd group.

“If the messages had been related to a party meeting of any kind, they would not have been susceptible to being captured by FOI.

Mr Gething must have known that they could be captured by FOI only because they were ‘Welsh Government’ iMessages.

“Similarly, there has been an attempt to suggest that the messages on the screenshot that was passed to us related to no more than banter relating to Mike Hedges, a non-ministerial member of the Senedd Labour group.

“The fact that the discussion related to a ministerial decision about the handling of Covid meant that the iMessages constituted Welsh Government business. Ministers were already under an obligation to preserve such messages because they were subject to FOI disclosure. Subsequently, they should have been disclosed to the UK Covid Inquiry.

“Whoever passed us the screenshot was performing a public service. The messages should have been in the public domain anyway.

“Mr Gething’s admission that he was deleting messages conflicts with what he in due course told the Inquiry, which was that messages had been deleted from his mobile phone not by him but when it was being ‘refitted’ by the Senedd’s IT department.

“Hannah Blythyn has behaved with integrity. Vaughan Gething has not.”

Responding to Nation Cymru’s bombshell intervention, Andrew RT Davies said: “With Hannah Blythyn’s account seemingly corroborated, it is almost impossible to believe the First Minister’s version of events.”

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Vaughan Gething: No more smiles from under fire First Minister

• Gething accused of “not telling the truth” • Nation Cymru CEO hits out at First Minister • Dramatic intervention turns up heat on Labour

Pembrokeshire pokes through the energy mists

Egni coop is owned by over a thousand people across Wales. It installs renewables, mostly solar panels on big roofs. That is just the tip of its activity, below there is much more to it, and behind, a volcanic beginning.

Vicky Moller, Grwp Resilience explores

It started back in 1998 when Dan McCallum tried to install a single large wind turbine for community benefit in the Aman valley. There followed a bitter 18 year war against his efforts. There was local support but also anti campaigners backed by a hostile Authority crushing his every attempt. He met the slow million cuts cruelty well known to veteran campaigners. For some reason Dan was indestructible and ended up creating the two largest energy co-ops in the UK – one for wind and one for solar.

What kept him going? Why the success? The answers are linked. Dan’s humanity and humour attracted positive people to the cause. They brought the multifaceted strengths of humanity so these successful energy coops don’t just produce clean electricity from light, without harming nature, they radiate benefits in all directions.

The investors get a steady respectable return on their over £8 million of investment every year. I know as I was one of the early ones. The local community are included; Eric, pictured, made his first investment at age 84 to provide energy for his area, with a trusted company. They can invest from just £50, so it’s a shareholder community of all incomes, with just one vote whatever the investment.

The building gets cut price energy with an energy supply agreement. They are schools, sports and leisure centres, community halls - spaces doing good, easing their energy bills pain and variability. Egni funds educational inspiring teaching making use of data showing energy changes in the building.

Vicky Moller vickymoller@gmail.com

The community benefits radiate further as Egni and Awel Aman Tawe have branched into supplying EV transport, local food, arts and now a community hub building.

When UK government under the dark Tory skies dropped all tariffs and banned onshore wind, battle seasoned Egni and AAT just pivoted and created an offer to public buildings that kept their energy costs low, and the coop’s income secure, along with the income for the mighty band of Welsh owners of the coop.

This offer was taken up by Pembrokeshire Council, commissioning Egni to turn 20 of its public roofs to become energy station in September last year. Steve Keating has now moved on, leaving a safe legacy:

“Pembrokeshire County Council has awarded a contract for the installation of rooftop solar panels on 20 local schools and leisure centres to Welsh social enterprise, Egni Co-op.”

The council website continues:

“It’s estimated that the solar panels will prevent the emission of approximately 200 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year and should save the schools and leisure centres £180,000 per year in energy costs

The systems should have an operational life of well over 30 years, and the contract aims to install over 1MW of solar PV on the schools and leisure centres over the next 18 months.

Steve Keating, the Council’s Energy and Sustainability Team Manager, said the scheme is an example of thinking differently, saying

“By securing outside capital investment from a social enterprise this solar power project offers the Council all the carbon savings along with major savings on operational expenditure for zero capital cost to the Council,” he said.

“The procurement model also ensures that local schools will receive

excellent educational support on renewable energy and climate change topics.

“At the same time the scheme supports the ambitions of a community energy cooperative thus allowing a social enterprise to roll out further renewable energy projects in other locations and retaining as much of the supply chain benefit as possible within Wales.”

A key part of the tender is a linked educational programme to engage schools in Pembrokeshire, alongside Sustainable Schools Pembrokeshire, to help tackle climate change. Egni’s Education Programme is called ‘We are Energy Warriors’ and has been developed

by their Education Officer, Jen James.”

Lets leave the last word to the arch energy warrior, Dan McCallum: ““We’d like to thank Pembrokeshire for their innovative approach in terms of procurement - this is one of the first examples we believe of a Council in Wales awarding a large contract to a social enterprise like us.

“We are now focused on providing clean power and saving as much money as possible for schools and leisure centres in Pembrokeshire. Going forward, we want this cooperative approach to be seen as a case study in how to best tackle climate change.”

first investment in his 84 years

Golden grove primary, Narberth

Pedlar jailed for selling knives

A PEDLAR has been jailed for six months after admitting selling knives and scissors door-to-door in the saundersfoot area.

Lewis Hill, 32, was seen approaching a property near Pentlepoir on July 4.

“He was seen going around houses selling kitchen utensils,” Crown Prosecutor Abigail Jackson told district judge Mark Layton who was sitting at Haverfordwest magistrates court on Tuesday.

“Police received a call about the defendant, who was claiming to be a salesman. But when one of the residents refused to buy off him, the defendant called him a f****** c***.”

Three more calls were made to the police by other nearby residents. Each reported that the doordo-door pedlar had been behaving in an aggressive and abusive way whenever people refused to buy items from his black holdall.

“He got very aggressive and threatened to knock somebody’s head off,” added Ms Jackson.

When officers subsequently arrested the defendant, they searched his holdall and discovered three pairs of scissors and a kitchen knife.

Ms Jackson said that in January 2023,

Hill was sentenced to a Community Order after being convicted of selling items door-todoor in the Thornbury area without an appropriate pedlar’s certificate.

“He sold a packet of cloths to an elderly lady who was vulnerable,” continued Ms Jackson. “But he then became abusive, calling her names such as a slut and a c***.

“He said, ‘If you call the police, this will be the biggest mistake you’ll ever make in your life. You’ll be a dead woman walking.’ Hill then spat into the woman’s face and onto her clothing.”

Hill, who pleaded guilty to four charges of possessing a bladed article in a public place and of peddling without a pedlar’s certificate, has four previous convictions for peddling without a certificate.

This week he was represented in court by solicitor Mr Adam Scott.

“He was going from door-to-door selling the items, but they were not, in any way, to cause fear,” he said.

“He’s done this since the age of 18, where he’s being paid to go from door-to-door selling wares.”

Hill, who currently resides in Middlesbrough, was sentenced to 26 weeks in custody. He must pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs upon his release

Four sentenced for smuggling drugs into Parc Prison with drones

FOUR members of an organised crime gang have been jailed for their part in smuggling drugs into Parc Prison uring drones.

South Wales police said that back on May 11, 2023, they received a report from HMP Parc that a package had been dropped within the prison walls by a drone .

Officers conducted inquiries and quickly identified a car that was in the location of the prison at the time of the package drop and found that it was still in the area. The car was tracked and subsequently stopped. The driver of the car was Lucy Adcock, 47. When the car was searched officers found a drone and her mobile phone. Lucy was arrested on suspicion of conveying a prohibited article into the prison and was taken into custody.

FOUR members of an organised crime gang have been jailed for their part in smuggling drugs into Parc Prison uring drones.

South Wales police said that back on May 11, 2023, they received a report from HMP Parc that a package had been dropped within the prison walls by a drone .

Officers conducted inquiries and quickly identified a car that was in the location of the prison at the time of the package drop and found

that it was still in the area. The car was tracked and subsequently stopped. The driver of the car was Lucy Adcock, 47. When the car was searched officers found a drone and her mobile phone. Lucy was arrested on suspicion of conveying a prohibited article into the prison and was taken into custody.

Those sentenced this week were.

• Lucy Adcock, 47, currently in Eastwood Park Woman’s Prison –sentenced to six years for conspiring to bring/throw/ convey a List’ A’ prohibited article into a prison and conspiring to bring/throw/ convey a List ‘B’ prohibited article into a prison.

• Craig John Davenport, 46, from Carisbrooke Avenue, Clacton on Sea, Essex – sentenced to four years and nine months for conspiring to bring/throw/ convey a List’ A’ prohibited article into a prison and conspiring to bring/throw/ convey a List B prohibited article into a prison.

• Ryan Dorland, 44, currently in HMP Brixton –sentenced to four years for conspiring to bring/throw/ convey a List’ A’ prohibited article into a prison and conspiring to bring/throw/ convey a List ‘B’ prohibited article into a prison.

• Nicola Ogle, 43, from Nayland Drive, Clacton on

Sea, Essex – sentenced to two years and six months for conspiring to bring/ throw/convey a List’ A’ prohibited article into a prison and conspiring to bring/throw/convey a List ‘B’ prohibited article into a prison.

Detective Inspector Ian Jones added: “It’s the first investigation we’ve identified in South Wales where we can say an organised crime group (OCG) are involved in conveying articles within prison using drones. We quickly identified that Lucy Adcock was the principal member of this OCG from reviewing her mobile phone. It was clear that is she wasn’t flying the drone herself she was in communication with the other members of the OCG and orchestrating each drone incursion.

“We have seen other examples of drones being

used in isolation for a drop, and usually we can show there’s contact between whoever’s flying that drone to somebody within the prison. This investigation showed us that this was an OCG, and they were out almost every other day flying or piloting a drone into a prison to convey prohibited articles such as drugs, mobile phones and SIM cards which is a current issue within prisons across the UK.

“This investigation, and the consequent sentencing, shows that we will relentlessly pursue criminals who look to utilise drones to convey articles into prison. By our proactive approach to targeting those who fly the drones into prison we are sending send out the message that we will look to prosecute and convict those responsible.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Lucy Adcock, 47 has been jailed for six years for her part in the conspiracy

Tata unmovable on blast furnace closure

THE NEW Westminster government’s efforts to avoid catastrophic job losses at Tata steel’s Port Talbot works have hit a brick wall.

During the General Election campaign in Wales, Labour made much of its willingness to do what it took to delay massive job losses at the plant at least.

There was talk of new money and an improved offer to persuade Tata not to shut down blast furnaces immediately, as well as a strategy for the UK’s steel industry.

The unions were enthused by new Business Secretary John Reynolds’ ability to appear optimistic in meetings with their membership.

Meetings with Tata Steel are another matter altogether.

By Wednesday, initial optimism had dribbled away.

Both parties must be willing to compromise for a deal to be struck. And Tata is, according to Mr Reynolds, “unmoveable.”

In this context, “unmoveable” means it is pressing on with its plans to shut a second blast furnace at the Port Talbot Steelworks.

Samuel Kurtz MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Economy and Energy, said: “The Business Secretary is confirming what we already knew: that Tata is unmoveable in their desire to shut the blast furnaces and that Labour had no real plan

to help keep them open.

“It must be an absolute priority for both the UK and Welsh governments to minimise the job losses, secure steelmaking and protect the supply chain and downstream industries.

“The UK Labour government are quickly finding out how much more difficult it is to govern rather than oppose.

“The Welsh Conservatives will support any deal that protects steelmaking, jobs and the wider community. We will wait and see if any such deal is forthcoming.”

On Tuesday (July 9), the Conservatives and Plaid Cymru questioned First Minister Vaughan Gething about Port Talbot’s future.

Mr Gething was asked what was the plan.

He refused to say on the grounds of commercial confidentiality.

The opposition followed by asking whether there was a plan.

Mr Gething appeared to suggest there might be a plan, but he was not in a position to confirm its existence.

The comfortable truth is that Tata holds all the cards that matter.

The company has said the existing blast furnaces are at the end of their operational life and must be closed to allow work to start on installing new electric arc furnaces to process scrap steel.

The problems are

many. Tata says it loses money every day at Port Talbot and must stop the bleeding. In addition, the drive towards reducing carbon emissions, enthusiastically embraced by Western economies and accompanied by a host of targets, incentives, and penalties, means producers like Tata find it cheaper to produce topgrade steel overseas.

A core problem is the cost of fuel and the security of supply.

Only in Wales would a government take the Coal Authority to court to try and force it to close a mine producing highquality, cleaner-burning anthracite for Port Talbot Steelworks. Only in Wales would that mine be within ten miles of those Steelworks. Only the Welsh Government would think importing inferior, dirtier coal from overseas at enormous cost represented both better business and a greener option.

The Welsh Government started speaking about a “just transition” to “greener steel” manufacturing only when it realised Tata was deadly serious about stopping high-grade steel production and closing blast furnaces in Port Talbot.

Before then, it spoke unconcernedly about new jobs in exciting new industries that would spontaneously erupt in Wales and grow the Welsh economy.

Those technologies and jobs do not yet exist.

Booze binge leads to CoOp store exclusion order

A BOOZE binge to the tune of over £70 has resulted in a 26-year-old Pembrokeshire man being banned from the Co-Op supermarket.

Dylan Newton of Colley Court, Monkton, was seen taking whisky, vodka and wine from Pembroke’s Co-Op store on five separate occasions between April 220 and June 16. None of the alcohol has since been recovered, while the cost of the stolen items totals £96.50

They certainly don’t exist at the sort of scale that will help steelworkers and their families deal with the fallout if Tata presses ahead and shuts down production at Port Talbot while it installs new furnaces.

And while Vaughan Gething told Plaid leader Rhun ap Iorwerth that it was “a new period of coinvestment” with Labour governments at either end of the M4, the Welsh Government is yet to put a single penny into the Port Talbot pot.

Indeed, the Labour leader was clear: the Welsh Government is only looking to spread job losses over a longer period than Tata is prepared to consider. This relatively small ambition acknowledges the lack of a Welsh or UK industrial strategy that considers the likely effects of the rush to go green.

Any transition to less intense modes of production and less employment-dense industries means net job losses. UK and Welsh politicians have shied away from addressing this truth, expecting that—like Wilkins Micawber—”something will turn up.”

Thinking about transitional arrangements now is rather like hitting the brakes on a speeding car less than six inches from the cliff edge.

That means regardless of whether Keir Starmer’s government can persuade Tata to slow down, a crash is coming.

This week Newton pleaded guilty to five charges of theft when he appeared before District Judge Mark Layton sitting at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court.

“Because you’re targeting the same store time and time again, we make a courtimposed exclusion order, excluding you from going to the Co-Op store.”

Newton was also sentenced to a 12 month Community Order during which he must carry out 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was ordered to pay a £144 court surcharge, £85 court costs and £96.50 compensation to the CoOp supermarket.

“The store is out of pocket because of your stealing, and you have to pay for that,” commented Judge Layton after considering a full report prepared by the probation service.

Woman admits stealing food and booze

A 34-YEAR-OLD

Milford Haven woman has been sentenced by a district judge after admitting stealing food from four separate stores within the town centre.

Kelly Rees was seen stealing groceries from Tesco valued at £68 on January 20; stealing groceries valued at £7.20 from One Stop Store on January 24; stealing alcohol valued at £25 from the One Stop Store on February 24; stealing £13.26 worth of energy drinks from Best One Store on February 24 and stealing steak, valued at £60, from Lidl on March 11.

She was represented in court by Mr Mike Kelleher.

“Last year my client’s mother died suddenly and shortly afterwards her relationship broke down, resulting in her three children going to live with their father,” he said.

“She relapsed into drug misuse as a result, hence the shoplifting offences, as she was spending all her money on drugs.”

Rees was sentenced to a 12-month community order during which she must carry out 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. She was fined £80, ordered to pay £172.16 compensation to the shops, a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Rees, of Precelly Place, Milford Haven, pleaded guilty to all five offences when she appeared before district judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court this week.

Port Talbot crisis: The future’s scrap

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Guilty pleas after cannabis plants worth £2m found at former school

TWO men have pleaded guilty to drugs charges after cannabis plants worth up to £2 million were found in a former school in Llandysul.

Dyfed-Powys Police officers carried out a stop check on a car travelling through Carmarthenshire

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

on Friday, July 4, in which five suitcases of cannabis were found.

Two men were arrested, and enquiries established the pair had travelled from London to Ceredigion, where they

stopped for a short while before leaving.

Further information led to a warrant being carried out at a former school building on Marble Terrace, where around 1,500 cannabis plants were discovered in various stages of growth across two floors.

The sophisticated

set-up also included a number of CCTV cameras installed around the building.

The total street value of the cannabis bud and plants seized would have been up to £1,960,000.

Alfred Perkola, aged 43 from Ealing in London, and Adli Gjegjaj, aged 25 of Salford, were charged with being concerned in the production of cannabis, with Perkola also charged with possession with intent to supply.

Both men admitted the offences when they appeared at court on Saturday.

Detective Chief Inspector Rich Lewis said: “This was a very successful operation, which saw excellent joint working not only between a number of departments within Dyfed-Powys Police, but also with other forces.

“We are committed to making our force

area hostile to those who deal illegal drugs, and our work over the weekend has seen a significant amount of cannabis taken out of

the supply chain.

“The strength of evidence against the suspects led to early guilty pleas, and we now await their sentencing.”

Appeal after pedestrian hit by vehicle

POLICE are investigating an incident which occurred at about 10.10pm on saturday (Juil 6).

A blue Mercedes Estate and a pedestrian were involved in a collision on Barn Street, Haverfordwest.

The female pedestrian was taken to hospital for treatment.

The 58-year-old male driver of the vehicle was arrested on suspicion

of assault and later released on bail pending further police enquiries.

Police would like to speak to anyone who witnessed, or has information on, the collision. They would especially like to speak to anyone who was travelling along Barn Street at the time and may have dashcam in their vehicle that captured the incident.

Police can be contacted 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: 24000593369

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

Former Minister’s Statement Piles Pressure on Gething

A MINIsTER sacked by Vaughan Gething for allegedly leaking to the media made a dramatic personal statement in the Welsh Parliament on Tuesday (Jul 9).

Hannah Blythyn told Senedd members she had not leaked information to the media, was never shown any evidence that showed she had done so and was never told she was under investigation.

ECONOMY WITH THE TRUTH

Mr Gething has refused to publish the information he relied upon to dismiss Ms Blythyn and refused to hold a formal leak inquiry.

The First Minister has also blocked disclosure of the Ministerial Code of Conduct. The Code for Westminster is publicly available.

The First Minister dismissed Hannah Blythyn from his government after a leak revealed that he had not disclosed information about Welsh Government decisions to the UK Covid Inquiry.

In the message published on Nation Cymru, Mr Gething said he would delete the exchange to avoid its disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.

He originally claimed the messages were “internal Labour group discussions”. However, that is untrue. The leaked exchange relates to ministerial discussions of arrangements to grade students’ exams during the pandemic.

Mr Gething could be recalled to answer questions about what other information he deleted or has not disclosed.

The First Minister has previously absented himself from the Senedd Chamber when he is the subject of criticism.

On Tuesday, the Presiding Officer, Elin Jones, called Ms Blythyn to make her statement immediately before Mr Gething unveiled his

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

legislative programme.

Tapping his fingers impatiently and with a face that could curdle milk, the First Minister had to sit there and take it.

GETHING sACKED MINIsTER WITHOUT DIsCLOsING EVIDENCE

Hannah Blythyn began her statement by saying there had been times when she was unsure “I would or could stand or speak” in the Senedd debating chamber again.

“Whilst I will not share the detail, I will share that I have formally raised concerns about the process by which I was removed from government, including not being shown any alleged evidence before being sacked, not being made aware that I was ever under investigation and that at no point was I advised or was it evidenced that I may have broken the ministerial code.”

Ms Blythyn acknowledged that it was “within the gift of any first minister to appoint and remove members of their government.”

But in a possible reference to the circumstances around the death of Carl Sargeant, the MS said she had “very real concerns that lessons have not been learned from the past”.

She said there had been “speculation about my circumstances and whether I have been well enough to work”.

“This has ranged from what was tantamount to misinformation and what can be put down to misunderstanding.

“It should not be surprising that what happened has been hugely detrimental to me on a personal level and led to acute anxiety and stress.”

Ms Blythyn continued:

“We’ve talked about kinder politics often in

this place, but we cannot have kinder politics without kinder people.

“We won’t get to better politics without being better people.

“It has been a privilege to serve in my country’s government, particularly under the leadership of Mark Drakeford.”

Motorist sentenced for A40 collision

VAsILE Barbu, 49, sentenced to four years imprisonment after being found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving

A WELSH motorist who was involved in a collision which killed Welsh triathlon and Ironman star, Rebecca Comins was sentenced today at Cardiff Crown Court.

Vasile Barbu was driving a white Vauxhall Movano van on the A40 on Thursday 2 June 2022 which collided with a cyclist.

Paramedics from

the Welsh Ambulance Service attended and confirmed that the cyclist, Rebecca Comins, had died at the scene.

Barbu was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday 7 June and today (Friday 5 July) was sentenced to four years in prison and disqualified from driving for four years.

Senior investigating officer, PS Shane Draper said: “Rebecca was an experienced and talented cyclist – she did everything she could to

stay safe of the roads – but the actions of a fellow road user saw her life tragically cut short.

“Driving is a privilege, and not something that should be taken for granted or taken lightly.

“This is reminder to everyone who gets behind the wheel –you are in control of a potentially dangerous machine – your responsibility isn’t just to ensure your own safety, but the safety of everyone around you.

“I would like to thank and commend the family for their strength during

this difficult time and I hope that this conviction helps provide them with some closure as they

continue to process their loss. My thoughts remain with them”.

The

On trial for skipping bail and failing to give a specimen

sARAH LewisMoane, 34, of Three Meadows, Haverfordwest, is scheduled to appear in court on Monday (Jul 8) facing multiple charges of skipping bail and one charge of failing to provide a specimen.

The hearing will take place at 2:00 PM.

Lewis-Moane faces her first charge for failing to provide a specimen for analysis on 29 April 2024 at Haverfordwest Police Station. According to the charge sheet, she was suspected of having driven a vehicle and was required to provide a specimen of blood for a laboratory test as part of an investigation under the Road Traffic Act 1988. However, she allegedly failed to provide the specimen without a reasonable excuse. Lewis-Moane

has entered a plea of not guilty. In addition to the charge of failing to provide a specimen, Lewis-Moane is also facing four separate charges related to failing to surrender to police or court bail at the appointed times.

On 21 May 2024, she allegedly failed to appear at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court after being released on bail by Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court on 15 May 2024. Similarly, on 14 May 2024, she allegedly failed to appear at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court after being released on bail by Haverfordwest Police Station on 29 April 2024. These charges are contrary to section 6(1) of the Bail Act 1976, carrying a maximum penalty of three months imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.

Moreover, two additional charges state that on 21 May 2024 and 14 May 2024, Lewis-Moane failed to surrender at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court or as soon as was reasonably practicable, contrary to section 6(2) of the Bail Act 1976. These charges also carry a maximum penalty of three months imprisonment and/or a level 5 fine. All charges have been adjourned from the initial hearing for the trial to take place. Sarah Lewis-Moane has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Man arrested on suspicion of murder in Carmarthenshire

DETECTIVEs from Dyfed-Powys Police are investigating the death of a woman, following the discovery of a body at a house in Bigyn Road, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, on Friday (Jul 5).

A 49-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

A police spokesperson

said: “We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident, however there will continue to be an increased police presence in the area over the coming days as the enquiry continues.

“Anyone with information that might assist is asked to get in touch with the police by calling 101.

family of Rebecca

Comins previously issued a statement following the verdict.

The Future of Haverfordwest – Engagement events

THE Regeneration Team at Pembrokeshire County Council are hosting a community engagement event on both the 19th and 20th July at Haverhub (the old Post Office building) to gather your ideas and input on shaping the future of our town.

The engagement event is the first of a series of engagement events, ensuring that the public’s voice is heard.

For years, our county town has held a special place in the hearts of its residents.

Like many town centres, it faces challenges and this event is a key step in defining the response to ensure that Haverfordwest realises its future potential.

Local Authority plans aim to create a vibrant town centre with thriving businesses, and a lively hub for residents and visitors to enjoy. But we can’t do it alone – your voice matters!

The community engagement event is your chance to be heard. Come

along to our exhibition where we will be inviting your views on our plans to:

• Revitalise the town centre by improving the environment and public realm;

• Activate the riverside, attract new businesses and create a lively hub for residents and visitors;

• Improve infrastructure: including – a new Transport Interchange, addressing the needs of pedestrians and cyclists and enhancing accessibility;

• Create open spaces in the town centre for the community to enjoy;

• Enhance Haverfordwest’s heritage, arts and culture offer and

• Continue to support existing local businesses.

The Regeneration plans for Haverfordwest are already well underway.

The Western Quayside building is nearing completion and the major restaurant chain Loungers will be

opening by Dec 2024 on the ground floor.

Work has commenced on a new landmark footbridge to replace the old bridge which has reached the end of its lifespan. The new bridge, which will be complete by Spring 2025, will lead residents and visitors from the Transport Interchange, across to a new public space between the library and Western Quayside, where clear signage will lead people to Bridge Street and Castle Square and then on up to the Haverfordwest Castle.

A major renovation of the castle has begun to preserve it as a key heritage attraction for future generations. The work includes an exciting new event space which is due for completion in 2026.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change, said: “This is an important step in engaging with Haverfordwest residents and key stakeholders to help us to get a better understanding of what is important to

them. This will help shape how we could take the redevelopment forward. It’s not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about building a future that reflects the needs and aspirations of everyone who calls Haverfordwest home. We want to hear your ideas, concerns and hopes for the future. his is an opportunity to demonstrate your interest in being part of a meaningful, regeneration programme which will change the face of Haverfordwest and pave the way for a better future for our residents, businesses and visitors.”

So come and join on either 19th or 20th July for discussion and a chance to share your vision for Haverfordwest.

Haverfordwest Regeneration engagement event:

• 19th July 2024: 10:00am – 5pm

• 20th July 2024:10am – 1pm

• Haverhub, (The Old Post Office Building), Quay St, Haverfordwest, SA61 1BG.

You are welcome to use the Welsh language. If you would like to do so,

you will need to inform us a minimum of five working days in advance of the meeting. Email: futureofhaverfordwest@pembrokeshire.gov.uk

If you can’t attend the event, visit www.pembrokeshire.go.uk/futureofhaverfordwest for more information and to complete the survey.

Let’s work together to create a Haverfordwest that is prosperous, vibrant and full of life. We look forward to seeing you there!

This engagement event is funded though the Levelling up Fund.

Man dies at Pembrokeshire-linked recycling centre

POLICE have initiated an investigation following the death of a man at a recycling centre in Cardiff. Emergency services responded to reports of an injured individual at the Atlantic Recycling site on Newton Road on Monday afternoon ( Jul 8 ). The site is operated by the same firm which operates the controversial Withyhedge Landfill Site in Pembrokeshire.

The man, whose identity

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

has not been disclosed, succumbed to his injuries, as confirmed by police later in the day. His family has been informed. On Tuesday afternoon, South Wales Police announced that a joint investigation with the Health and Safety Executive is now in progress to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Detective Sergeant

Richard Hill of South Wales Police expressed his sympathy to the deceased man’s family. In a statement, he said, “We would like to offer our condolences to the family of the man who sadly lost his life. Our aim now, together with the Health and Safety Executive, is to carry out a robust investigation and establish the cause of this tragic incident.”

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service reported being called to the scene at 12:44 pm on Monday.

Emergency services were understood to still be present at the site at approximately 8pm that evening.

The First Minister, Vaughan Gething, came under pressure in recent weeks after it was revealed he had accepted a £200,000 donation from Atlantic Recycling’s boss. As we reported at time, despite losing a vote of no confidence in the Senedd, Gething refused to step down.

Discovery of ‘human-looking hand’ stops play at Tenby Golf Course

ON FRIDAY (Jul 5), an ordinary round of golf took a startling turn when a club member discovered what appeared to be a skeletal human hand near the 9th hole on Tenby Golf Course.

The shocking find, nestled in a rabbit hole, prompted immediate action and concern among the staff.

The member, shaken by the discovery, promptly alerted club management.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

The police were swiftly called to the scene, and the area around the 9th hole was cordoned off to ensure safety and preserve any potential evidence. Photographs of the skeletal remains were taken and sent to police headquarters for analysis to determine whether the hand was human.

Initial scans at headquarters were inconclusive, leaving room for speculation and anxiety among the members and staff. In response, the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) was brought in to conduct a thorough examination.

After several tense hours of meticulous investigation, the CSI team confirmed that the skeletal hand did not belong to a human. Instead, it was determined to be from an animal of an unknown species.

This revelation brought a wave of relief to the golf club, as the discovery of human remains could have necessitated extensive and disruptive excavation of the fairway.

Club members and staff expressed their relief and curiosity over the unusual find, which has become the talk of the club. “It’s not every day you come across something like this on a golf course,” commented Golf Manager David Hancock “It certainly added a bit of

excitement and mystery to our usual routine.”

While the incident was resolved without any sinister implications, it served as a reminder of the unexpected surprises that can lie beneath even the most familiar grounds.

Club members and visitors are now back to their regular games, albeit with a story that will be recounted for years to come.

The police have been contacted for a comment.

Thousands enjoy great Wales Airshow weekend

sWANsEA’s Wales Airshow had a fantastic weekend (note: July 6-7) with hundreds of thousands of people enjoying the country’s biggest free outdoor event.

Two days of flying featuring The Red Arrows, the RAF Typhoon and many other displays delighted visitors from across the UK.

The Swansea Councilorganised event saw huge crowds enjoy a wide range of interactive displays, activities and live entertainment on the ground as well as seeing the action in the air.

New features included a Veterans’ Village to honour all exService people. Visitors celebrated the significant contributions made to the UK by those who serve and have served in the forces.

There was a signing ceremony for the Armed Forced Covenant, renewing the council’s commitment to the armed forces family.

The show marked Wales Armed Forces Day, with Saturday activity including a stage ceremony and entertainment. An original song, written by a group of veterans, was performed publicly for the first time at the event.

Cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies said: “Swansea does more than ever to salute those who serve in the forces; our airshow activity helped visitors acknowledge the contribution of our veterans, reservists, cadet forces and volunteers.

“As one of the highlights of the annual Swansea events calendar, the airshow was a huge success, continuing to support the city’s reputation as a top-class venue for major events.

“The stars of the freeentry show included the hundreds of thousands who enjoyed a day out or a weekend in Swansea. The family atmosphere resulted in a great weekend.

Tom

Sinclair Editor@herald.email

were affected by the road changes implemented for everyone’s safety.”

MIKE EDWARDS

LAsT weekend, I donned my cricket gear for what, as it happens, I hope is my last sporting adventure this year.

My beloved club were short of bodies due to an outbreak of fear of getting stuffed. The side’s skipper, Gerald “The Giant” Richards, worked out how to use a mobile telephone and rang me at 8:30 on Saturday morning.

Still slurping my first mug of Glengettie and not yet fully conscious, I agreed to play.

The day was forecast to be sunny and bright, and I looked forward to a day lounging in the outfield while catching some rays.

My wife dropped me to the ground. I invited her to stay and watch us play cricket. However, when she saw the collection of geriatrics and spotty youths we’d managed to gather together, she sped off to spend time watching large men from Ireland and South Africa do sweaty and muscular things on a rugby pitch far away.

We lost the toss. The opposition skipper, appraising our likely talent in much the same way as my beloved, had no hesitation in batting first.

I was not unhappy. There was still the chance to rest in the long grass and do little more than warm my old bones.

I spent an awful lot of time in the long grass, but mostly in neighbouring fields and gardens, looking for a succession of cricket balls which the opposition’s opening batsman kept hitting out of the ground.

Added to this, although the weather was bright and sunny, a gale-force wind blew straight off the

Atlantic Ocean and across the pitch. As a result, it was bright, sunny, and cold enough to cause my tenderest parts to seek warmth in my abdomen.

Our poor opening bowler had to come off from bowling when he ricked his neck following the path of a ball that had no sooner left his hand than it headed into low earth orbit.

After an eternity freezing my rocks off, the skipper resorted to desperate measures. He threw me the ball and asked me to have a go.

My first three balls broke the pattern of play by not going for any runs. I foolishly thought that it was my day to shine. My fourth ball was not so much stroked for a four as it was bludgeoned for twelve.

Encouraged by my only disappearing for the one maximum in the over, skippy asked me to give it another whirl. Again, my first three balls yielded no runs. Perhaps it was my day, after all.

I sent down what I hoped would be a Shane Warne-style leg break. It spun miles. Sadly, it spun miles off the clubhouse roof on its way into the wide blue yonder. It was a chastening experience.

I have never felt so old and helpless.

I finished my over tidily enough, but the damage to my pride had already been done.

After the other team scored eleventyhundred-and-plenty, it was our turn to bat.

I shall draw a polite veil over our efforts, but I was pleased to be our thirdhighest scorer, after extras and young Nev, who’d never played before. Never again. Until the next time, that is.

“The airshow contributes millions of pounds to the local economy and we thank local businesses and residents for their patience with the road closures, and to all traders for their contribution to the latest show’s success.

“We also appreciate the understanding of those whose daily routines

He paid tribute to the effort put in by council staff, emergency services, show sponsors and other council partners who helped make the event a top-quality showcase for the city.

This year’s sponsors

included Aerodyne, Day’s Rental, First Cymru, FRF DS Swansea, FRF Toyota, Great Western Railway, Greatest Hits Radio, Lidl, Radnor Hills, Royal British Legion, Transport for Wales and Travel House.

Next year’s Wales Airshow is due to take place on July 5 and 6.

Completion of Tiers Cross council houses

P EMBROKE s HIRE

County Council (PCC) is celebrating the completion of the Tudor Place Tiers Cross housing development built by Tycroes Group.

This is an import and positive move for tenants, offering significant change, by delivering high quality, thermally efficient properties that meets tenant’s greater need, now and into the future.

The allocation of the Tudor Place properties required that tenants were able to demonstrate a local connection to Tiers Cross and surrounding areas.

Completion of this site sees the replacement of ten pre-fabricated houses with 11 sustainable and affordable council homes, which will be used to house social tenants and help towards combating wider housing need throughout Pembrokeshire.

Council tenant Victoria said: “Having lived in Tiers Cross for over 30 years, watching the development of Tudor Place has been super exciting. The new Tudor Place has bought new life into the village, with the sleek and modern design of the new builds. “It is super exciting and we, as a family, feel very privileged to have been lucky enough to secure a tenancy. A modern-day family in a modern-day home.”

Tenant Zoe added: “We as a family are extremely happy to be

moving back home to Tiers Cross where we can start a whole new chapter and create new memories.”

Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Michelle Bateman, welcomed the development and highlighted its contribution to the long-term strategy of increasing Council housing stock.

“Our Housing Development Programme is using a range of methods that include building, acquisitions and working with private developers through the delivery of turn-key properties to increase housing stock.

“PCC’s Housing Strategy is clear on the importance of 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 looking to provide homes for life.

This latest addition will be the first of many for our Pembrokeshire residents,” she said.

Chairman of Tiers Cross Community Council Cllr Dave Procter said: “As a community council we are delighted that the Tudor Place project has reached its completion. We have had many challenges along the way but the final result looks spectacular, we hope the new residents enjoy their properties and become active residents within the community.”

20MPH fines have reached ‘an astounding amount’ say Welsh Conservatives

MORE than 6,000 drivers in Wales were caught speeding in 20mph zones in last month, The Pembrokeshire Herald can reveal. The total paid out in fines has now topped £1.28m according to Go safe’s latest stats.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

to find a compromise.

The new limit came in across the country last September and sparked the biggest backlash to any legislation introduced in Wales since devolution. In May, the number of Welsh drivers caught for speeding in 20mph zones surged to 4,286.

Welsh Government’s transport minister Ken Skates – who was appointed this April –has admitted the default 20mph has left Wales more divided as he seeks

Responding to the news Natasha Asghar MS, Shadow Transport Minister, said: “The damage to our economy and to people’s livelihoods should not be underplayed and the Welsh people have soundly rejected the 20mph speed limit.

“With astounding sums of money generated through fines being issued,

there appears to still be confusion surrounding 20mph speed limits due to Labour’s terrible awareness campaign and their poor rollout.

“The Welsh Conservatives would scrap this ridiculous policy which punishes people for trying to get from A to B.”

Meanwhile Ken Skate indicated that the extent of any “radical” changes to the current 20mph

road policy would hinge on public opinion, but he anticipates a substantial decrease in the number of roads in Wales with this speed limit.

King marks Senedd’s 25th year

25 YEARs since its first Members were elected to represent the people of Wales, the Welsh Parliament is looking to the future as Their Majesties. The King and Queen visited the senedd on Thursday, July 11.

The 25th anniversary coincides with the passing of a new Welsh law, which will increase the size of the Senedd to 96 Members and introduce a new voting system at the 2026 election.

The extra Members will be able to better represent their communities, challenge the work of the Welsh Government and strengthen the Senedd’s ability to make decisions for Wales.

The King delivered a speech to mark the 25th anniversary and meet people who have made an invaluable contribution to the Senedd’s work.

Speaking in the ceremony in the Siambr,

the Senedd’s debating chamber, were the Llywydd of the Senedd, The Right Honourable Elin Jones MS, the First Minister for Wales, Rt. Hon. Vaughan Gething MS, and Party Leaders Andrew RT Davies MS for the Welsh Conservatives and Rhun ap Iorwerth MS for Plaid Cymru.

BETTER REPREsENTATION, INCREAsED sCRUTINY

Elin Jones MS was among the first cohort of Members elected to the then National Assembly for Wales in 1999. She has served the constituency of Ceredigion for the full 25 years and has served as Llywydd, the Senedd’s Presiding Officer, since 2016.

Elin Jones said, “ Twenty-five years ago, Wales embarked on a transformative journey, electing the National Assembly for Wales. Since then, the Senedd

has become a fullyfledged parliament that can make laws in areas crucial to people’s lives.

“This is a modern and flexible Senedd, with sustainability at its heart. A bilingual parliament proudly working in our two official languages. In 2003, the first Parliament in the world to be gender balanced.

“Our journey continues. In 2026, voters will elect 36 additional members to the Senedd, offering the people of Wales a stronger voice, better representation, and increased scrutiny of decisions made for them.

“Politicians have come and gone, making their own contributions. But this is not a politicians’ Parliament - it belongs to the people of Wales, who forged its beginning and are shaping its future.”

PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

During their visit to the Senedd, the King

and Queen met people from the community who have contributed to its work, including Neil Evans, the petitioner who successfully started a campaign for plastic carrier bag charges in 2007.

Also among the guests are Sarra Ibrahim, who has provided valuable evidence to Senedd Committees on multiple issues relating to childcare, gender-based violence and the needs of migrant women; cancer

campaigner Claire O’Shea, who shared her story to demand better gynaecological cancer treatments and results in Wales; and Angel Ezeadum, a former Welsh Youth Parliament Member who successfully campaigned to make teaching Black History mandatory in Welsh schools.

A posy will be presented to The Queen by 10-year-old Celyn Matthews-Williams from Llanelli, a Senedd Covid

Community Champion. During the pandemic, she raised money for food banks and the Wales Air Ambulance and brought joy to her community by growing sunflowers and setting up a book exchange on her garden wall. Their Majesties will also meet members of Senedd staff who have worked there for 25 years or are themselves 25 years old and Welsh Youth Parliament representatives.

£3.7m additional funding to protect and preserve Wales’ national treasures

THE WELsH GOVERNMENT is providing additional funding to ensure Wales’ cultural institutions are protected and preserved, with £3.2m earmarked this financial year for repairs to be carried out to both the National Museum Cardiff and National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Lesley Griffiths, has said the Welsh Government has listened to concerns regarding the intense financial pressures on all cultural institutions – at a national and local level – and acted to mitigate these difficulties.

In addition, the Cabinet Secretary has confirmed £500,000 to help improve storage facilities and protect important collections at local and independent museums and archives which tell the stories of communities across Wales.

Funding will also continue to be invested in the redevelopment of Amgueddfa Cymru’s Llanberis site, which will create opportunities for greater and improved access in North Wales to the national collection.

The dispersed model for a National Contemporary Art Gallery will provide increased access to the national collection and bring contemporary art

Man

closer to communities through a network of nine galleries already established across Wales. More of Wales’ collections will also be provided through the Celf ar y Cyd website.

The immediate priority of protecting and preserving cultural institutions and their collections means investing in an anchor gallery for the National Contemporary Art Gallery for Wales and Museum of North Wales will not be possible at this time.

The Welsh Government continues to invest in the significant redevelopment of Theatr Clwyd in Flintshire and The Football Museum for Wales in Wrexham.

died of ‘heart

THERE was a multiagency rescue operation in Eryri on Tuesday, July 2 as a man suffered a cardiac arrest while climbing Cadair Idris. Emergency teams rushed to the mountain but sadly the man could be saved and died at the scene.

The Wales Air Ambulance and coastguard helicopter were scrambled to the scene, with mountain rescue volunteers also called in to assist. Sadly,

The Welsh Government is also working closely with Amgueddfa Cymru and the National Library of Wales to develop plans to address the wider maintenance issues at the National Museum in Cardiff and the Library’s building in Aberystwyth over the coming years.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Lesley Griffiths said: “Our museums, archives and galleries are vital parts of cultural life in Wales and today’s announcement will help protect them and their collections for the benefit of people across Wales, now and in the future.

“We have had to make some difficult decisions and choices, but we have listened and the priority at this

time must be helping to safeguard our cultural institutions be they large or small, national or local.

“The dispersed model of the National Contemporary Art Gallery will bring collections closer to communities, emphasising our commitment to equity of access. We will continue to develop our digital online platform –Celf ar y Cyd – so more people across Wales and the world can enjoy our national collection of art.

“Funding will also ensure local museums and archives are supported, recognising the extremely important role they play in telling the stories of their areas.

“We have been

honest about the financial challenges we’re facing, however, this does not stop us being ambitious for the sector. The investment we’re continuing to make and our consultation on draft priorities for culture over the next six years show the importance this Welsh Government places on culture.

“We must continue to work together to safeguard our cultural institutions.”

Jane Henderson, President of the Federation of Museums and Art Galleries of Wales said: “We’re delighted that Welsh Government is acknowledging the importance of caring for collections held in local museums and archives. These objects and collections combine

to tell the histories of people and their communities which together tell a powerful story of a nation built from many parts.”

Amgueddfa Cymru Chief Executive, Jane Richardson said: “We are so pleased that Welsh Government are providing additional funding to start critical maintenance work at National Museum Cardiff. The Museum is over 100 years old and was specifically built to house and showcase Wales’ very special national collection.

“We are delighted that this extra investment will enable us to begin the work to ensure this collection remains accessible to the people of Wales as well as visitors from the rest of the UK and across the world.”

National Library of Wales Chief Executive, Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, said: “We very much welcome this new investment by the Welsh Government which will go towards essential renovations to the National Library building in Aberystwyth.

“The national collection that is kept here is a treasure that belongs to the nation and the funding will enable works that are much needed. Completing these works will mean that the collections are safe in the long-term and will ensure access to them for future generations.”

attack’ whilst climbing Welsh mountain

the man could not be saved.

In a statement, a spokesman for the Aberdyfi Search and Rescue Team told The Pembrokeshire Herald:

“At approximately 1pm on Tuesday, the team received a request from Welsh Ambulance Service for assistance with a male in cardiac arrest on Cadair Idris. The team deployed in support of Welsh Air Ambulance and Coastguard Helicopter R936.”

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Milford Haven Carnival 2024: Round Table praised for ‘best parade in years’

MILFORD HAVEN

was a hub of excitement and celebration on saturday, July 6, as the annual carnival returned to the delight of locals and visitors alike. Organised by the Milford Haven Round Table, this year’s event was a spectacular display of community spirit, creativity, and entertainment.

The festivities kicked off at Waterloo Square, where the parade set off, winding its way over Hakin Bridge, through Hamilton Terrace, and down Charles Street before culminating at Milford Waterfront. Leading the procession was the Milford Haven Town Band, whose lively tunes set the perfect tone for the day. The streets were lined with spectators, all eager to catch a glimpse of the colourful floats and performers.

Among the many highlights of the parade was a touching moment when firefighters from Milford Haven Fire Station posed for a photo with a bride and groom who were getting married at the Imperial Hall. This unexpected yet joyous encounter added an extra layer of magic to an

already vibrant day.

The carnival continued to impress with an array of live performances and activities. Pure West Radio hosted a stage for live music, featuring the energetic Jukebox Tonic Band and the talented Steve Bartram. The Defying Gravity stunt show captivated audiences with its daring feats, while the Mad Science Show intrigued both young and old with its educational and entertaining displays.

In addition to the performances, attendees enjoyed a fun fair, street food vendors, craft stalls, and charity stands. The

community’s effort and enthusiasm were evident in the variety and quality of the attractions, making for a well-rounded and enjoyable day.

Facebook comments poured in during the Herald’s live stream of the carnival, showcasing the widespread appreciation for the event. Nigel Phillips expressed his gratitude for the live stream, as he couldn’t attend in person, while Jennifer Smedley and Sarah May Cadwell thanked the organisers for sharing the event online. Jane Gregory noted how packed the carnival was,

praising the Round Table for a great day. Many others, including Tracy Hobbs Stinton, Margaret Jones, and Diana Taylor, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the event’s success and the community’s involvement.

Tina Matthews commended the colourful floats and the effort put in by all participants, while Huw Griffiths shared that his mother, Primrose Griffiths, watched from Withybush Hospital, appreciating the connection to the community even from afar. Linda Louise Baldry and Jeanette Spiers

celebrated the sense of community and the effort everyone made to support the parade.

A Milford Haven Round Table spokesperson shared a heartfelt message of thanks to all involved, stating, “Thank you to everyone who entered the carnival and to every one of you who lined the streets! You are all amazing and make Milford what it is – a great and special place. What a day we had… Same time, same place next year? Thank you to South Hook LNG, Milford Waterfront, Ascona Group, Milford

Haven Town Council, and all other sponsors for helping to make it happen!”

The 2024 Milford Haven Carnival was not just an event but a testament to the town’s enduring community spirit and dedication to creating memorable experiences for all. As the day concluded with smiles and laughter, there was a collective anticipation for next year’s celebration, promising even more joy and togetherness.

Pictures by Herald / John Hodge and Carol Best

Butterflies on the Move: Help Track Spread of Species

LEADING wildlife

charity Butterfly Conservation is calling on people across Wales to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count (July 12 - August 4) and help scientists understand how climate change is moving butterflies.

After analysing 50 years of data, researchers have discovered a clear northward spread for many species, including common garden favourites, the Peacock, Comma and Holly Blue. This is the result of climate change, creating warmer habitats in which they can survive.

At the other end of the scale, species such as the Scotch Argus in Scotland are retreating northwards to stay in the cooler climes this butterfly prefers.

Last year, people across Wales carried out 5,557 counts as part of the Big Butterfly Count, spotting 63,237 butterflies and day-flying moths.

The most commonly spotted species across the region included Meadow Brown, Large White, and Gatekeeper.

In 2023, Red Admiral showed the secondgreatest country-level change in Wales compared with 2022, increasing by 209%. This closely followed another migratory species, the Silver Y moth, whose sightings were up by 257%.

Scientists need to know how these and other species are faring and moving, and they are relying on the Welsh public for help.

Butterflies are indicators of the health of our natural environment - and with half of Britain’s butterfly species already threatened or near threatened with extinction, it’s never been more important to understand how these species are responding to the changing climate and to take action to protect them.

The public is being asked to help scientists discover more about the movement and trends of where butterflies are living by spending 15 minutes in any sunny spot and recording the number and

type of butterflies they see this summer.

Dr Zoë Randle, Senior Surveys Officer at Butterfly Conservation, explains:

“Thirty years ago, you wouldn’t have seen a Holly Blue in Scotland. Now, it has expanded where it lives across the UK by 34%, increasingly spreading northward.

“The Red Admiral, which was once a migratory species most commonly seen in southern England in the summer and then leaving for Europe in the winter, is now living in the UK all year round, resulting in a three-fold increase in their number.

“We’re also seeing other species which have previously suffered severe declines, such as the Comma, recovering, with a huge increase of 94% in where it is found.

“These highly adaptable species are all able to move into new places as the climate warms. However, for habitat-specific species, the trends raise serious red flags.

“Species that rely on particular habitats aren’t able to move as freely as our garden favourites. This means that if climate change continues, they could become trapped in isolated fragments of remaining habitat, unable to move and with their food plants at risk from adverse weather conditions, facing the very real threat of extinction.”

Butterfly Conservation Vice President Chris Packham explains:

“Butterflies are on the move, and there’s no doubt that climate breakdown is behind these geographic shifts.

“We know nature is running out of time, so we need to act now. We need you to get out for the Big Butterfly Count. Let us know what you spot and where you spot it.

“You will be gathering the important data we need to see what the latest impacts are on our butterflies and moths so that we can take the action needed to protect them.”

Chris Packham is not alone in his support for the Big Butterfly Count.

Over the years, Sir David Attenborough, President of Butterfly Conservation, has shared poignant messages in his support of the Count.

Sir David said: “The UK is a nation of amateur naturalists, and we have a proud tradition of celebrating and studying our wildlife.

“Every single person taking part in the Big Butterfly Count helps to build a picture of how butterflies are faring and how we can best conserve them.

“A few precious moments spent watching a stunning Red Admiral or Peacock butterfly feeding amongst the flowers in my garden never fails to bring me great pleasure.”

Other famous faces who have taken part in or supported the Big Butterfly Count over the last few years include His Majesty King Charles

III, Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte, Butterfly Conservation Vice President Dr Amir Khan, and even Winnie the Pooh!

ButterflyConservation’s Big Butterfly Count is the largest citizen-science project of its kind. It is a positive action everyone can take to help collect important scientific data, enjoy time outdoors, connect with nature and have fun.

Whether done with friends and family or in a moment of quiet calm and solitude, the Big Butterfly Count is free, fun and takes just 15 minutes. It is open to anyone of any age in any part of the UK - towns, cities or the countryside. No green space is too small - a back garden, a small terrace or balcony with some pot plants, a public park, allotment, or country lane are all important spaces to explore, track and report.

Last year, more than 135,000 Counts took place up and down the country, with participants spending a combined total of almost four years counting butterflies.

The information gathered helps scientists understand how butterflies and moths are faring, informs conservation projects and government policies and supports other experts with their research and vital work to protect our planet.

Dr Zoë Randle said: “In total, over 1.5 million butterflies and day-flying moths were recorded in

last year’s Count, where the Red Admiral reigned supreme with almost 250,000 sightings. We’re wondering whether someone in Wales this year will be the first to spot a new species in their area, and what the results will show for our butterflies

and moths across the UK.”

This year’s Big Butterfly Count runs from Friday, July 12, to Sunday, August 4. For more information and to participate, visit www.bigbutterflycount.org or download the free Big Butterfly Count app.

Successful handover of Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro

THE HANDOVER of the new Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro in Pembroke has been completed, with Gareth Rees, Project Manager with Morgan sindall Construction & Infrastructure Ltd handing the keys to the new school to Executive Headteacher Dafydd Hughes on July 8. Following the award of the contract for the design and build of the new school, Morgan Sindall commenced work on the site in March 2023.

Rob Williams, Operations Director for Morgan Sindall said that it had been a privilege to work on such a landmark project, the school being the first in Pembrokeshire to be delivered meeting stringent Net Zero Carbon requirements.

He said: “It was brilliant to be a part of the project handover this week, it’s a fantastic school in such a beautiful location. We are very proud of the project and thank the Pembrokeshire County Council team for both the opportunity to deliver such a great project and for such an enjoyable collaborative

Representatives from Morgan

project

Construction & Infrastructure Ltd and

County

Aaron Carey, Chair of the Temporary Governing Body of Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro, on the occasion of the handover of the school from contractor to the Council.

approach to design and deliver a very sustainable Net Zero Carbon school with fantastic facilities. It really felt we formed one team. A big thank you to everyone involved.”

The Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro building project has been funded by the Welsh Government through its Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme,

and Pembrokeshire County Council, and will open in September 2024. The school will provide full day-care for up to 36 children aged 0-11 years, a 30 place nursery, and capacity for up to 210 pupils (Reception to Year 6). Cllr. Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member for Education and the Welsh Language, said that he was delighted that this

important project had been completed.

Cllr Woodham added: “This project represents a significant milestone in the Council’s delivery of its Welsh in Education Strategic Plan (WESP), and I am very grateful that the hard work of officers and contractors has resulted in a new school which has been delivered on budget and

on time, and which will be in a position to admit pupils for the first time in September 2024. As the Cabinet member with responsibility for Education and the Welsh language, I look forward to visiting Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro during the autumn and seeing the school in operation at first hand.”

In receiving the

keys to the new school, Mr Hughes said that Morgan Sindall, working alongside Pembrokeshire County Council’s project team, had produced an excellent educational facility and that it represented an exciting new chapter for Welsh medium education in Pembrokeshire.

“I know that the children who will be attending this school will greatly benefit from a truly 21st century learning environment, and those that will transfer from the Welsh stream at Ysgol Gelli Aur / Golden Grove School are extremely excited at the prospect of continuing their education at Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro. Those children have been frequent visitors to the site during the construction period, and along with staff, have been welcomed wholeheartedly by the contractors.”

An open evening is being held at the school on Monday 15th July at 4.30pm, and this will be an opportunity for the local community to visit the school, and for prospective parents and their children to view the excellent facilities.

Minister criticised for refusal to back Senedd veto over damaging UK trade deals

A MINIsTER has been criticised for his refusal to support the senedd having a veto over trade deals that would damage Welsh businesses.

Llŷr Gruffydd, who represents North Wales in the Senedd, took aim at The Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Huw IrrancaDavies for a “failure to stand up for Wales’ interests.”

The Plaid Cymru politician, who is his party’s Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, challenged, the Labour minister about the issue during a debate in the Senedd.

Plaid Cymru is calling for the UK to rejoin the European single market and customs union, and

Mr Gruffydd also asked the Cabinet Secretary whether he agreed that we would be better off as part of it.

Llŷr Gruffydd MS said: “Brexit and Tory trade deals are undermining much of our food and drink producers at the moment.

“Do you therefore agree with Plaid Cymru’s calls for Wales to have a veto on future trade deals if we believe that they are detrimental to the food and drink sector here in Wales?

“And would you agree with Plaid Cymru also that we would be better off as part of a single market and customs union?”

In response Huw Irranca-Davies said: “On the issue of the voice for Wales in future trade

deals, we’ve had no voice, Llyr.”

He added: “I’m not saying veto, I’m saying a voice.”

Speaking after the debate in the Senedd, Llŷr Gruffydd MS: “The minister’s point blank refusal to back the Senedd getting a veto over trade deals that would harm our businesses is disappointing to say the least.

“This is a complete failure to stand up for Wales’ interests and is an open invitation for Westminster politicians and bureaucrats to trample all over our food and drink sector.

“We have seen in the recent past that Westminster just can’t be trusted to do what’s right for Welsh businesses

and Welsh communities.

“Farmers in Wales have been completely sold out in shoddy and shabby trade deals signed by the UK Government with no Welsh representation around the negotiating table. It’s increasingly

clear that an incoming Labour administration would continue in exactly the same vein.

“Having a voice isn’t enough because the Westminster parties have shown time and time again that they’re happy to ignore our

needs and priorities.

“A veto would mean that Westminster couldn’t just ignore Wales in the future, but it seems that the Labour Welsh Government is perfectly content to roll over and do what they are told by their London bosses.”

Sindall

Pembrokeshire

Council’s

team, with Executive Headteacher Mr Dafydd Hughes and Cllr.

Less fires, but more floods and traffic incidents for our fire service

THE MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue service (MAWWFRs) has recently published its latest Performance and Improvement Progress Report, providing a comprehensive overview of its performance and operational response from April 2023 to March 2024. This report details the number and nature of incidents attended and reviews the prevention and response strategies and initiatives undertaken to enhance service delivery.

While it may be commonly assumed that Fire and Rescue Services (FRSs) predominantly respond to fires, the report highlights a significant shift in the types of incidents attended by MAWWFRS. Over the past year, the number of fires attended has dropped by almost 15%, from 3,023 incidents in 2022-2023 to 2,582 in 2023-2024. Fires, whether accidental or deliberate, now make up only 19.8% of the total number of incidents attended by the Service. However, there has been an increase in other types of incidents. The total number of incidents attended rose by 2%,

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

with a notable rise in road traffic collisions and flooding incidents requiring MAWWFRS’s attention. The number of flooding incidents increased from 349 in 2022-2023 to 393 in 2023-2024, marking a 12% increase.

False alarms constitute the highest percentage of all incidents attended by the Service, with almost 6,000 callouts during this period. In response to this, MAWWFRS has announced a change in the way it responds to Automatic Fire Alarms, effective from 1st July 2024, to make better use of its resources.

MAWWFRS provides emergency response cover, home safety checks, business inspections, and education programmes across approximately 4,500 square miles, serving a population of over 910,000 people living in more than 430,000 households. The Service’s 58 fire stations cover approximately two-

thirds of Wales, with all these services costing each resident within the Service area just £6 a month.

The Performance and Improvement Progress Report has underscored the dramatic change in the landscape of incidents that FRSs now attend. This is supported by the Welsh Government’s summary of fire and rescue incidents

for 2022-2023, which shows a downward trend in the number of fires since 2001-2002, with a nearly 70% decrease in these incidents across Wales. In recent years, MAWWFRS crews have responded to an increasing number of medically related incidents (over 1,000 in 2023-2024). Firefighters have received additional training to handle medical emergencies, and new medical equipment, such as defibrillators, have been introduced on fire engines.

Additionally, there has been an increase in the number of road traffic collisions (over 700 in 20232024) and flooding-related incidents (393 in 20232024) that MAWWFRS has responded to. This demonstrates that public perception of what FRSs do is markedly different from the reality.

In recognising this shift, the Service has launched its Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) 2040, which outlines how MAWWFRS intends to address the risks, threats, and challenges facing the communities it serves. It also highlights how the Service will work to ensure that its assets and resources are used as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Lifting of onshore wind ban will bring cheaper bills for consumers

REsPONDING to this week’s announcement by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves that the Government will reform the National Planning Policy Framework before the end of this month to end the de facto ban on onshore wind in England, RenewableUK’s Chief Executive Dan McGrail said: “Lifting the onshore wind ban in England was long overdue and we’re delighted that Labour has made this one of its first priorities in office. This shows that the new Government is determined to act fast to tackle some of the longstanding barriers

which have held the UK back on developing vital new clean energy infrastructure.

“Public support for onshore wind remains sky-high throughout the UK at 78% according to the latest official polling, as billpayers know that new wind farms provide electricity at very low cost, as well as strengthening our energy security and tackling climate change. Polling also shows that most people want to see the planning system reformed, as they’re frustrated that an onshore wind farm proposal which is overwhelmingly popular in a local area can be stopped by just a handful of opponents.

“The onshore wind industry is committed to ensuring that communities are properly consulted about any proposals, including the wide range of economic benefits they will bring to local people. This process can take several years, including measures which help ensure that wildlife is protected, so it will be some time before brand new projects go ahead in England.

“Modern turbines are substantially more efficient and powerful than the turbines built in previous decades, so doubling the UK’s onshore wind capacity by 2030 won’t mean doubling the number of

UK. We can generate more power from fewer new turbines, and we can replace older turbines with far more

Welsh drivers fined due to ‘misleading’ bus gate signage

A DETAILED investigation into the signage of bus gates in Cardiff has revealed significant issues leading to an exorbitant number of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) being issued, totalling over £500,000 annually.

The Kingsway bus gate, in particular, has become a notorious hotspot for fines, averaging one £70 PCN every 20 minutes during its operational hours.

The root of the problem appears to be the inadequate and misleading signage that fails to meet the legal standards set out in the Traffic Signs and General Directions 2016 and the Traffic Signs Manual.

According to the reports, many of the drivers fined

were likely unfamiliar with the area, relying on the insufficient signage to guide them. This issue is not unique to Cardiff, with similar complaints being echoed across various UK towns and cities. The reports highlight that the signage at Kingsway does not comply with the necessary legal requirements.

Common problems include signs that are too small, poorly placed, and lacking necessary supplementary plates such as “and authorised vehicles” for Private Hire Vehicles. This oversight questions the legality of the bus lane and gate enforcement in Cardiff and other regions. An extensivereview of bus gate penalties across the UK shows

a troubling pattern of inadequate signage and excessive PCNs. Cities such as Leeds, Bristol, Brighton, and Aberdeen have similarly high rates of fines, with some councils issuing up to 132,000 PCNs annually. These penalties generate millions of pounds in revenue but have sparked widespread criticism regarding their fairness and the adequacy of the signage.

Traffic experts and campaigners, including Matt Sanders who authored a comprehensive 150-page report on Bristol’s bus gates, urge immediate corrective measures. Recommendations include halting the issuance of PCNs until signage is corrected,

refunding unjustly fined drivers, and ensuring that all traffic signs meet current legal standards and are conspicuously placed.

Local authorities, such as Cardiff City Council, maintain that their signage complies with legislation. However, this has been disputed by adjudicators at the Traffic Penalty Tribunal who have frequently upheld appeals based on inadequate signage. The

reports call into question the competence of the officers responsible for installing and maintaining these signs, suggesting a lack of up-to-date knowledge and training. For Cardiff and other affected cities, the path forward involves a comprehensive review and overhaul of bus gate signage to ensure legal compliance and clarity for drivers. Authorities are urged to adopt the Institute of Highway Engineers’

recommendations and ensure all signage is designed and checked by qualified professionals. The current state of bus gate signage in Cardiff and across the UK is leading to an unreasonable number of fines, disproportionately affecting unfamiliar drivers. This issue necessitates urgent national attention and reform to ensure fairness and legal compliance in traffic enforcement.

Cabinet recommended to approve Pembrokeshire hosting Eisteddfod 2026

PEMBROKE s HIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Cabinet Members are being recommended to approve an offer to host the National Eisteddfod in 2026.

As we reported on Saturday, a site off the A487 at Llantood in the north of the County has been identified and meets many of the criteria required to host the event, a report before Members states.

The report to Cabinet on Thursday, July 11 says that 2026 marks the 850th anniversary of the Eisteddfod in the Dyffryn Teifi area.

The report adds: “There

needs to be strong and committed partnership between the LocalAuthority, the National Eisteddfod and communities in order to ensure a successful desired outcome.

“There needs to be a strong focus on the local culture and heritage which aligns with the programme of administration including supporting economic development and regeneration alongside the Council’s commitment to contribute to the Welsh Government plans for a million Welsh speakers by 2050.”

As there is no specific funding earmarked for

hosting the National Eisteddfod, a funding source will need to be identified, including the potential for attracting external sponsorship.

If Council funding is required, this could be possible from the events budget or reserves as a one-off, the report states.

Cabinet Members will be asked to formally approve the offer from the Welsh Local Government Association to host the National Eisteddfod.

Cabinet meets on Thursday, July 11 at 10am and will be webcast as normal.

Stephen Seagull’s and the election ‘landslide’

Caw! Caw! Gather round, feathered friends and fine folk of Pembrokeshire! stephen seagull here, flapping and squawking from the bustling docks of Milford Haven, ready to serve up a hearty helping of seaside wisdom. Now, don’t let your feathers get ruffled, but today’s squawk is about landslides—and not the kind that sends us seagulls scrambling for higher perches!

You see, the word “landslide” brings to mind those catastrophic moments when the ground underfoot turns to treacherous muck. One moment you’re perched on solid ground, the next you’re flapping desperately as the earth gives way. That’s a pretty apt metaphor for the political tremors shaking Westminster this week. The folks in power might prefer the sunny side of politics, but the ground beneath them is shifting, and it’s about time we paid attention.

Last week’s election results were a real wake-up call. Keir Starmer managed to nab a majority that would make Tony Blair proud, but the numbers behind the headlines tell a different story. Labour and the Tories both took their smallest shares of votes and seats in over a century. It’s as if the bedrock of British politics is cracking, much like an old pier battered by the relentless waves.

Let’s dig deeper into the sediment of

this situation. Take David Lammy in Tottenham, who lost more than 12,000 votes, or Starmer himself, whose comments about deporting Bangladeshis probably didn’t sit well with the one in ten of his constituents who are of Bangladeshi origin. Even the usually unshakeable Wes Streeting nearly lost his seat by a mere 500 votes! It’s clear that the

usual rocks in Labour’s landscape are shifting.

And what about the northern heartlands? The likes of Angela Rayner, Yvette Cooper, and Jonathan Reynolds are feeling the pressure from Nigel Farage’s Reform party. Those northern towns, with their oncesolid Labour support, are now fertile ground for political upheaval. And the valleys of south

Wales? From Llanelli to Pontypridd, Reform ran Labour a close second in 13 seats. That’s like a seagull discovering an untouched beach full of chips—unexpected and game-changing.

Now, if you think this is all just a flash in the pan, think again. The voting patterns are more fluid than ever. People are flipping their votes like a fish on a hot

deck, from blue to red to yellow and back again. This isn’t just about one election—it’s a state of permanent revolution. The political landscape is as unpredictable as the tides, and just as powerful.

Labour’s strategy of targeting small towns at the expense of big cities has its own set of problems. Cities, where Britain’s ethnic minorities

predominantly live, are feeling neglected. It’s not just about who wins or loses; it’s about who feels seen and heard. When Labour trades city votes for town votes, it’s trading a diverse coalition for a more homogenous one. That’s a risky game, and it’s starting to show cracks. The anger over Westminster’s disregard for issues like Gaza isn’t just about foreign policy—it’s a reflection of domestic neglect. When communities feel taken for granted, they look elsewhere, whether that’s to other parties or to staying at home on election day. This isn’t just a political problem; it’s a social one.

So, what’s the big takeaway from all this? The political ground is shifting, and it’s not just a one-off event. It’s a slow, steady landslide, where the pressure builds and builds until, finally, the ground gives way. The big names in the cabinet may be dreading the next downpour, but they’d do well to remember that the conditions for a landslide build up long before the first rock falls.

And there you have it, my friends—a lesson in political geology from your favorite dockside philosopher. Keep your eyes on the ground beneath you, because it’s always moving, and the next big shift could be just around the corner. Until next time, keep your wings spread and your eyes sharp! Caw! Caw! Stephen Seagull, signing off.

Badger and a question of boundaries

THE BRAVE new world has arrived.

Badger is appropriately taken aback that it has such people in it.

You can read more about the General Election result elsewhere in this week’s online edition of The Pembrokeshire Herald, so Badger isn’t going to bash you over the head with it here.

This week, Badger spotted that the Boundary Commission for Wales released its plans to reorganise town and community councils in Pembrokeshire.

Our county has ten town councils and 67 community councils.

That’s far too many.

Let’s do some sums.

There are sixty county councillors.

Each county councillor represents around the same number of voters (approx. 1570, although there are exceptions).

In addition to Pembrokeshire’s county councillors, there are hundreds of other councillors at the town and community levels. If the average for Wales per town and community councillor were repeated in Pembrokeshire, the number of town and community councillors would exceed 830.

That’s one councillor for every 112 people.

Again, that is far too many.

Cllr Jamie Adams once stated that he thought the number of county councillors could be cut by half.

Badger will file that proposition under “hyperbole.” However, he accepts there is

a case for judicious thinning of local government’s mangrove thicket.

Let’s extend Councillor Adams’s thinking to Town and Community Councils.

Some community councils serve such small populations and have such tiny budgets that they can deliver services only in concert with other similarly small councils.

If services must be delivered across community council boundaries - and money dictates that’s the case - it surely follows that representation must follow that pattern.

That would reduce the number of councils and councillors, smooth variation in Council Tax precepts and cut duplication of expenditures and processes.

Badger would go further.

He believes that larger town councils should have much greater autonomy and far higher budgets than they do at the moment.

It follows that more powerful town councils would reduce the need for sixty county councillors.

Badger doubts whether Jamie Adams carried out a root-andbranch analysis of how to cut county councillor numbers. However, if you feel that services should be delivered at the most local level viable, then you must accept a wholesale redrawing of local government.

Such restructuring cannot start with merging county councils

as the first step. Instead, the Welsh Government must decide which bodies can best deliver local services, be directly accountable to communities, and offer the best value for money. If that means fewer but more powerful town and community councils and a resulting reduction in the number of county councillors, Badger would be comfortable with that trade-off.

Apply that logic to Fishguard/Goodwick/ Scleddau/Manordeilo/ Dinas, or Tenby/Penally/ Saundersfoot/Amroth, or Narberth and its rural hinterland. Do it across the St Davids Peninsula and the villages of mid and north Pembrokeshire.

It’s a radical solution. However, if you’re going to eliminate bureaucracy and achieve real efficiencies, you must examine all options.

As a result, the County Council would be able to concentrate on core public services: bins, roads, education, social care and services,

and planning.

Ah... planning!

Badger would end the lunacy of having two separate planning authorities in National Park areas. There is no reason for such pointless duplication to continue, especially as Councils now have far more stringent environmental rules governing planning than they did in the past.

If there must be Local Development Plans and housing strategies, you don’t need two bodies creating them.

The savings speak for themselves.

“The special character” of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park does not change Badger’s view.

The “special character” of the National Park’s planning system is building executive homes when local families cannot afford to live in their home villages. It’s stopping older people from double-glazing or insulating their homes because of “St

Davids”. As a result, the population within the National Park is dropping like a stone. More homes, fewer people, fewer jobs, and pushing the Park’s housing problem onto the local authority. That’s a “special character” right there.

So far, Badger has proposed fewer councils, fewer councillors, less duplication of bureaucracy, and greater efficiency.

That’s all well and good, but Badger has one more target in his sights.

The Welsh Government sends public money that should go to accountable local authorities to provide better services to unaccountable groups and third-sector organisations. It does so in the belief that such groups can focus on a single issue and respond more nimbly than councils.

What it has done, however, is Balkanise and atomise the provision of important services: tenant support, care services, and services for people with disabilities are the preserve of groups whose funding comes from the same pot as Wales’s councils’. In fact, they’re groups that wouldn’t even exist without Welsh Government funding. As an even better wrinkle on the Welsh Government’s wizard wheeze, local authorities must still pick up the tab to support those unaccountable groups out of our money.

Truly, readers, charity begins with Council Tax.

Then you have the

lunatic situation where the Welsh Government funds grievance groups (aka “dynamic local campaigns) and pretends they’re wholly independent. There’s an alphabet soup of acronyms, action groups, and trusts out there - all funded by the Welsh Government and its arms-length bodies - campaigning for the Welsh Government to do whatever the hell it wants.

That’s what underpins the modern myth of Welsh voluntarism.

The quid pro quo is paid in millions of quids across Wales.

Only in Wales, readers, could a government host a meeting to discuss food supply and food poverty, invite groups it funds to tell it what it wants to hear and invite nobody from food producers or processors.

Only in Wales, readers, could a government commission a review of one of its policies from a group it part-funds and present it as an independent analysis.

To restore sense to public spending, governments must stop offshoring their responsibilities— responsibilities for which they are ultimately accountable—to bodies that are not. That will cut duplication, reduce waste, and rationalise service provision in a way that does not involve cutting essential services.

Efficient, accountable, democratic. Surely that’s what all of us want. Isn’t it?

Fishguard Festival of Music launches feast of live classical music

THIs year’s Fishguard Festival of Music/Gŵyl Gerdd Abergwaun concerts will open next week with a concert at Newport Memorial Hall by the Young Music Makers of Dyfed. The concert on Thursday 18 July at 7.30pm is co-presented with Newport Music society and showcases

some of the finest young musicians in the area.

17 further events will be staged at multiple venues in Pembrokeshire from 19 to 31 July, with the popular Welsh National Opera Orchestra returning to the festival to perform at St David’s Cathedral on Friday 19 July. Conductor

From Little Mix,

GET ready for a dazzling explosion of music, dance, and pure excitement as Pop Party takes the Torch Theatre stage!

This exhilarating live concert, made especially for kids, brings the latest trending TikTok hits to life in a vibrant and engaging live performance.

The show features chart-topping songs from artists including Little Mix, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Lizzo, Meghan Trainor, Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran, Charlie Puth and more and it promises to be an immersive and unforgettable experience for kids and families across the UK.

Pop Party is an electrifying concert tour that celebrates the vibrant world of pop music. Bringing together a diverse collection of the hottest TikTok tracks, this show creates an exhilarating playlist that will have children (and adults!) dancing in the

Tomas Hanus will lead a programme that will include Bruckner’s Sixth Symphony and the Mozart Clarinet Concerto with soloist Thomas Verity. For this concert a return Festival bus service will call at Cardigan (Finch Square), Newport Square, Dinas, (Kiel House), Fishguard Bus Station and

Goodwick Square. Bus tickets can be purchased when booking concerts tickets.

Other artists performing during the first week of the festival include the Marmen String Quartet, the Welsh National Opera Chamber Orchestra, violinist Braimah KannehMason with pianist Jâms Coleman and the Bute Wind Quartet.

On Wednesday the 24th July, Fishguard Festival of Music will welcome back its Patron and former Artistic Director Peter Donohoe to give a piano recital at Neuadd y Dderwen, Rhosygilwen.

One of the foremost pianists of our time and winner of the 1982 International Tchaikovsky Competition, Peter will play music by Chopin and Albeniz and the Variations on a Theme of Chopin by Busoni and by Rachmaninov. Recently, Peter has performed as a soloist with the London

Symphony Orchestra and Simon Rattle with four performances of Messiaen’s TurangalîlaSymphonie in London, Edinburgh, and Bucharest. In January, he returned to Philadelphia for performances with the Ama Deus Ensemble and then travelled to Dubai to adjudicate at the 3rd Classic Piano Competition 2024. The full programme is available to view on the festival’s website and tickets can be booked via www. fishguardmusicfestival. com

Gillian Green MBE, Artistic Director of the Fishguard Festival of Music, said: “The Fishguard Festival has been a showcase for world-class music in West Wales for over fifty years. We have an excellent line-up this year and will be taking music to a range of venues around Fishguard and St Davids. There is something for everybody.”

Taylor Swift, Harry Styles and more at the Torch!

Torch aisles.

From infectious pop anthems to empowering girl-power ballads, our dynamic ensemble of Party Poppers perform stunning renditions of chart-topping hits, igniting the stage with their energy, enthusiasm, and infectious charisma.

Featuring the latest trending TikTok hits, Pop Party invites children and families to sing along, dance freely, and embrace the joy of music together. From feel-good pop tunes to inspiring anthems, every song carries a powerful message of selfexpression, confidence, and positivity.

Pop Party is an interactive experience that encourages audiences to dance like no one’s watching! Children will have the opportunity to unleash their inner rock star, singing and dancing alongside their favourite pop powerhouses.

Touring across theatres in the UK,

Pop Party creates unforgettable memories for children and families in every town. So, get ready to let loose, sing your heart out, and dance like nobody’s watching at Pop Party - the ultimate

concert experience here in Pembrokeshire!

Grab your tickets today and get ready to be a part of the biggest children’s concert sensation of the year!

The Pop Party will

be on the Torch Theatre stage on Wednesday 7 August at 2pm. Tickets: £16.00. To book your tickets or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267

Tim Howe tells all about The Wind in the Willows

There’s a lot of talk and whispering going on in Pembrokeshire and beyond about the Torch Youth Theatre’s summer production of Wind and the Willows. As a huge fan of Ratty, Badger, Mole and the delightful Toad, Anwen quizzed the director of the production to find out more …..

Tim Howe, Senior Manager Youth and Community at the Torch is under the spotlight and discusses Wind and the Willows that will appear on the Torch Theatre stage from 22 – 24 of July!

Tell us why you chose Wind and the Willows as the play for this year’s Youth Theatre production.

The Wind in the Willows is one of those stories that has a version which belongs to each generation. The moment you mention it to a group of people, they’ll say, “Oh yes, when I was growing up, we used to watch the one where Toad was played by David Jason”. And isn’t that the best thing? We all have a connection with this story, and I thought it’s time that Torch Youth Theatre created a version for their generation.

We all love Wind and the Willows, why do you think the story has such an appeal?

The story has a huge amount of appeal to everyone, and its themes are so familiar to all of us. We all recognise the friendship, loyalty, and the need for adventure that the story presents through such lovable characters as Mole and Ratty, and those we can’t help but love despite their faults like Toad. Overall, though there’s a reason it’s described as a timeless classic, beyond these universal ideas, it’s a story of heroes and villains, where we know that someway, somehow, good will always triumph! Isn’t that everyone’s hope?

We’ll obviously add our own Torch Theatre twist to the play – can you let us know what these twists are?

Ooo… well now you’re asking for spoilers! All I will give away is that there is a mysterious yellow monster that keeps making its presence felt in the wood, and Weasel claims to be in control of it, but is she?

For those who aren’t familiar with the storyline, give us a quick overview.

Mole is bored of spring cleaning and decides to leave her house and explore the world. Getting lost she seeks out some help from a friendly Water Rat who takes her under his wing. The two set out to explore the river and are soon interrupted by a loud, obnoxious and strangely interesting Toad. Toad possesses large amounts of money and loves spending it on the latest exciting trends – right now he’s into speedboats! Having disturbed the peace, Toad speeds off. Meanwhile the dastardly Weasel has been recruiting Ferrets and Stoats to join her gang who are trying to take over the Wild Wood and then Toad Hall itself. Mole and Ratty later go to the Wild Wood to visit the kind and responsible Badger to get her advice on getting Mole home and what to do about Toad.

Badger decides that the three friends must attempt an intervention, to prevent Toad from throwing away even more money. However, Toad escapes, and, when he encounters a car, he steals it. Inevitably, he is caught and sent to prison. However, the jailer’s daughter takes pity on him and helps him escape. After many further adventures, Toad is at last rescued by the three friends. He learns that in his absence, Toad Hall has been taken over by weasels and stoats, but the villainous Wild Wooders are evicted in a climactic battle, and Mole finally gets t go home. And what about the main characters – Ratty, Mole, Badger and of course Toad! Tell us a bit about them.

Mole (Moley, or Molly) normally lives

underground but spends the story discovering the joys of life above ground. She is a bit of a nervous creature, who can get over excited and this sometimes leads her into trouble. She is a loyal and helpful friend.

The Water Rat (Ratty or Ratster) lives on the river and is devoted to finding adventure. Ratty is the first creature to meet the Mole and he is far more aware of the world than his underground friend. Ratty also dreams of the sea and the wider world beyond the river.

Badger is a wise and knowledgeable undergrounder. Her thoughtful speeches mean a lot to her friends, but she is also able to scare the other Wild Wooders when she needs to. She never does anything without thoroughly thinking it through first, but when she does act, it’s firm.

The world-famous Toad of Toad Hall is one of those people who everyone could hate but secretly we all wish we were him! He has lots of money and loves the most expensive and up to date toys! He gets bored of thing very quickly and moves on to the next exciting thing… which often leads to adventure and danger!

And who, or what on earth is the Slurpex? Should we be afraid, very afraid?

The Slurpex? Well, we’ve all seen one lurking around roadworks and building sites, but in the play, we hear it roaring into life and roaming around the Wild Wood. The Weasel claims to be in charge of it, but it doesn’t always listen to her, and it’s slowly running over everything in the Wild Wood and forcing the animals out of their homes. We can’t promise the Weasel will keep it under control….

The rehearsals are in full swing and youngsters eight to 18 are attending. Tell us a bit about the Youth Theatre and how can people get involved.

Torch Youth Theatre is a safe creative space for all young people to learn about themselves, other people and the world around us. Our sessions are not just about acting and theatre; we ensure that our young people learn about social skills, problem-solving, and teamwork. Most importantly our young people have fun and make new friends. We run four age-appropriate groups on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings

“Terrifying”, “Tense” and “Raw” watchthe trailer

sOME critics have even declared it their favourite instalment in the franchise so far.

We are just days away from uncovering what silenced the world when A Quiet Place: Day One arrives in cinemas, marking the third entry in the franchise initiated by John Krasinski in 2018.

This new chapter stars Joseph Quinn and Lupita

Nyong’o, with Michael Sarnoski stepping in as director. Sarnoski also wrote the script, developing the story in collaboration with Krasinski.

Produced on a budget of $17 million, Krasinski’s A Quiet Place became a critical and commercial success upon its release in 2018, achieving a 96% rating

on Rotten Tomatoes and grossing $340.9 million worldwide.

A Quiet Place: Day One serves as the origin story and has already been screened for critics, some of whom are proclaiming it their favourite of the trilogy.

Early reactions describe it as “a little less scary” but note that it “brings new thrills and nail-biting

suspense”. Additionally, there have been multiple commendations for the cat featured prominently in many of the marketing campaigns.

Although full reviews remain under embargo, these initial reactions suggest the film will be as well-received as the first two, both of which earned a Certified Fresh rating.

gamIng

GET ready for the wildest ride of your life! Dustborn is not just any game—it’s a thrilling road trip across an alternate United states with your rebel gang posing as a rock band. Picture yourself cruising down scenic highways, dodging the clutches of an oppressive police force called Justice while jamming out to some serious tunes! Tap along to the rhythm, belt out songs with your car radio, and rock the stage with your bandmates, each with their own unique personalities and backstories.

But wait, there’s more! When it’s time to throw down, grab a baseball bat and channel your inner Streets of Rage to beat up hordes of robot soldiers. Imagine the satisfaction of smashing through your metallic foes as the crowd cheers you on. The action is intense, and the stakes are high, but your quick reflexes and sharp wits

will see you through. But that’s not all. Dustborn is also your very own comic book adventure! Every decision you make shapes the story in real-time, creating a dynamic narrative that’s uniquely yours.

As you progress through the roughly 15-hour journey, each chapter generates comic book pages that you can flip through on your tour bus, which doubles as your mobile HQ. Check out how your choices stack up against other players, just like those cool summary screens in Telltale Games.

And here’s the best part: When you finish your epic journey, Dustborn compiles your unique adventure into a custom 35-page comic book! This personalized memento captures every twist and turn of your story, from your most heroic moments to your toughest decisions. Share it with friends online or print it out to keep forever. Imagine flipping through the pages and

reliving your adventure, or seeing the amazed reactions of your friends as they read about your exploits.

“That’s always been the vision for this game, to be a living comic book,” says Ragnar Tornquist, Founder & CEO of Red Thread Games. “It’s a great way to share your experience. Of course, if you haven’t played the game and you read [another player’s] comic book, you’re going to spoil a lot of it, but your own journey will likely be different in many ways from somebody else’s.”

So buckle up, rock out, and create your own legendary story with Dustborn! This isn’t just a game; it’s an epic saga waiting to be written by you. Get ready to hit the road, make unforgettable memories, and become a part of a living, breathing comic book adventure that you’ll cherish forever.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES A partner or a dear old friend, someone you either share your deepest thoughts or your bank account (or both) with, could make you a rather odd yet extremely wonderful offer. The kind you absolutely couldn’t refuse even if you wanted to. Which you don’t. Fortunately, it’s the perfect time for just such an activity. And if there’s a bit of secrecy involved, so much the better.

TAURUS

You’ve never been good at taking orders, especially if they’re delivered by a higher-up with a chip on their shoulder. Under those circumstances, you’ll go out of your way to do exactly what you’ve been told not to do, and you’ll go about it with gleeful irreverence. You’re in just that type of mood right now, so if you don’t absolutely have to be around an authority figure you’re already at odds with, do something else.

GEMINI

It’s all too easy to get bogged down in shoulda-coulda-woulda as well as “I could never do that.” Don’t put limits on what you can achieve before you even get started. What’s even more discouraging, however, is when you demand too much of yourself at once. So you want to sing like a diva but can’t read a note of music? Start small. Look up a voice teacher. Maybe sign up for lessons, and so on and so on. After that, the possibilities are endless.

CANCER

As the song says, you’re in the mood for love simply because they’re near you. You won’t settle for just any old red-roses-candle-lit-dinner type thing, though. You’re in the mood for a whole lot more. You want it all! Deep, meaningful conversations and intense flirtation are the stuff dreams are made of. Fortunately, with the planets aligned the way they are at the moment, settling for less isn’t just out of the question; it’s totally unnecessary.

LEO Responsibility can seem an awful lot like a four-letter word, especially these days. Haven’t you done enough? Isn’t there someone else who can help pick up the slack? Those are very good questions. However, you might not be able to answer them until you grit your teeth and simply soldier through these next few tasks. Afterward, sit down and evaluate where you’re putting time and energy in your life and how you can alleviate some of the weight.

VIRGO There’s nothing more poignant than an unfulfilled promise. Is there an area of your life you’ve been neglecting? Perhaps a hobby or a career ambition or just a promise to spend more time with someone who’s fallen by the wayside in all the hustle and bustle of everyday life? It’s easy to get pulled away from things that have deeper meaning, but if you make an effort you can get back on track with something (or someone) you once loved.

LIBRA

You may still be a bit irritated about recent events, but it really is time just to let go and forget it. Besides, if a certain person you’re quite fond of has anything at all to say about it, the type of secrets and intrigue you’ll be dealing with will be far from unpleasant. Dim lights, soft music, and sweet whispers, that sort of thing just might be what they have planned. There. Better?

SCORPIO

Don’t even try to hide your feelings from the ones who love you, or from anyone you just met a few minutes ago for that matter. The mood you’re in is the one that inspired that ancient phrase about wearing your heart on your sleeve. Basically, if it’s on your mind, it will be quite obvious to one and all. The good news is that right now, according to the Universe, it’s supposed to be.

SAGITTARIUS

Your mantra, should you choose to repeat it, is this: “Yesterday never happened. Today will be wonderful.” Keep it up until you absolutely believe it, although after a certain person makes contact with you this morning, it shouldn’t be too hard to talk you into it. Those arguments never happened and if they did, they certainly didn’t involve anything that was worth ruining your day over.

CAPRICORN

Your brain needs food too, so turn off the TV and do something stimulating and invigorating. Watch the neighborhood kids play softball. Go for a hike. Write a letter to someone you love but haven’t talked to in far too long. Pick up those paints you haven’t touched since college. Go to a poetry reading. The world is immense, fascinating, and rich. Life is far too short to not explore as much of it as you can.

AQUARIUS

As someone in Wonderland said to Alice, it’s best to try to believe at least three impossible things before breakfast. The funny thing is once you let yourself believe them, they don’t seem all that impossible to begin with. The first step is to let yourself believe that such benevolence is in store for you. So go ahead. What are three wonderful, lovely and no-way-thatcould-happen-to-me things that you want in your life?

PISCES

It’s not exactly that you’re aiming to aggravate everyone you cross paths with,

watchthe trailer

Tracy wins top prize

A FORMER nurse from st Davids received the sport, Health, and Outdoor Education prize at UWTsD’s graduation ceremony on Tuesday, July 9.

After a 30-year career as a nurse, which saw her work in hospital settings before transitioning to primary care in a GP surgery for the past two decades, Tracy John returned to education to pursue her interest in Health, Nutrition and Lifestyle.

Tracy says: “My decision to pursue this course stemmed from a long-standing interest in nutrition and health.

“Despite my extensive nursing experience, I

never received formal training in nutrition.

“The degree’s focus on the chemistry and significance of nutrition in health captivated me.

“Additionally, having spent years advocating for the importance of exercise, I was intrigued by the opportunity to understand the biological changes the body undergoes.

“My primary ambition was to use this degree to specialise in obesity management. I aimed to deepen my understanding of nutrition and health to better support patients struggling with obesity.

“My interest in menopause was sparked during my second

year when I chose to research menopause for a physiology assignment. This project allowed me to explore how menopause affects women’s health, revealing the significant impact of this lifechanging event.”

Tracy found that being a mature student presented both advantages and challenges.

Her extensive nursing background provided valuable personal and professional experience, but it also meant that she had been away from academia for some time. However, spending extra time to develop her academic skills has enabled her to achieve

her goals.

She continues:

“The course has been immensely beneficial on a personal level. It has instilled a sense of pride in my achievements and reinforced my belief in the power of determination. I would encourage anyone to take a leap of faith and pursue their academic

goals.

“My current ambition is to secure funding/ sponsorship to continue my research on menopause as I am committed to making a meaningful difference in women’s lives, both now and in the future, through continued research and advocacy”.

New degree apprenticeships announced to help build the Wales of the future

THE WELsH Government has teamed up with three universities to launch new degree apprenticeships in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity surveying, Building surveying, and Real Estate.

The new degree apprenticeships come at a crucial time, with the construction sector alone needing an extra 11,000 workers by 2028.

These four-year programmes, fully funded by the Welsh Government, will offer students the chance to earn a degree while gaining hands-on experience in employment starting in September 2024. The courses will be offered at Wrexham University, the University of South Wales, and the University of Wales Trinity St David.

The Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Energy, and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said: “These programmes not only prepare individuals for high-demand jobs and higher wage occupations, but will also ensure a skilled, resilient and forward-looking workforce to drive economic growth and provide innovative solutions to social and climate challenges.”

Jac Beynon, an assistant Quantity Surveyor at Jones Brothers (Henllan) Ltd in Cross Hands, will be one of the first to benefit from the new apprenticeships in UWTSD in September. He said: “As I finished my A-Levels in school, I was exploring my options for what to do next. I thought about going to university full-time, but I wouldn’t say I liked the idea of waiting three or four years before starting work. So when

someone mentioned an apprenticeship scheme that would allow me to work and learn at the same time, I was sold.

“My primary aim is to gain practical, handson experience. I want to develop industry-specific skills that are directly applicable to real-world scenarios. Undertaking an apprenticeship is also about building confidence in my abilities to handle professional responsibilities and

make informed decisions independently.” The construction industry and universities have also welcomed the new apprenticeships. The Construction Industry Training Board praised the “sector pulling together in a shared direction to overcome industry and broader challenges”, whilst representatives from Wrexham University, the University of South Wales, and the University of Wales Trinity St David

spoke positively about meeting the needs of both learners and employers, creating new and immediate opportunities and delivering high-level skill sets.

Gareth Williams, Standards and Qualifications Manager (Wales) for the Construction Industry Training Board, said: “People wanting to work in construction need clear career pathways into the industry, and these new construction degree apprenticeships are a significant milestone towards achieving this. The launch of these apprenticeships also demonstrates a sector pulling together in a shared direction to overcome industry and broader challenges.”

Professor Elwen Evans, KC, ViceChancellor of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), said: “UWTSD is delighted that the Construction Degree Apprenticeships are now available for employers and apprentices in the sector. These programmes will enable individuals to develop a high-level skill set that will benefit them and their employers in a fast moving and exciting sector.”

educa TI on

RSPCA animated film goes viral amid busiest period for animal cruelty

ONE animal cruelty report every five minutes during summer months

A hard-hitting new RSPCA animated film has been watched tens of thousands of times in just 72 hours - and is now set to hit television screens across the country.

The 30-second film has been released as the animal welfare charity launches its ‘No Animal Deserves Cruelty Appeal’ - as the RSPCA is braced to respond to more cruelty this summer than at any other time of the year.

Between June and August last year, the RSPCA took a report about an incident of animal cruelty every five

minutes.

The RSPCA’s new film brings to life the powerful story of resilience seen in so many of the animals rescued - as the charity responds to mounting reports of cruelty at this time of year.

It features a young dog left without food and water, and living in fear of violence from their owner - before being saved by an RSPCA rescuer.

The cartoon is typical of the tireless rescue efforts RSPCA officers provide every day - with the charity, last year, receiving an astonishing 285 reports of cruelty against animals every single day during these peak summer months.

More than 70,000 people have already watched the animated film since it was uploaded to the RSPCA’s YouTube channel on 4 July, as the RSPCA seeks to raise vital funds during the busiest time of the year for animal cruelty.

A shorter version of the film - a 15-second clip - has proven even more popular, and has racked up more than 525,000 views on YouTube in just ten days.

Karen Colman, who heads up the RSPCA welfare oversight team, said: “In summer, we receive more reports of cruelty than at any other time of year - and our inspectorate officers are braced for another very challenging period

ahead.

“This powerful new film highlights perfectly what our officers are doing on the frontline every single day. Since the animation went live, we’ve been really heartened by the tens of thousands of people who’ve watched it and shown their support.

“No animal deserves heartbreaking abuse. Animals are like us: they feel desperation, confusion and terror - but I am immensely thankful that our dedicated officers are on the frontline each and every day rescuing animals from such scenes of deliberate cruelty, neglect and mistreatment.

“But we can’t do this

alone. That’s why we’ve launched our summer cruelty appeal, because it’s vital that we all take action together to keep reaching even more animals this summer.”

Supporters of the charity can catch the new film on social media - including on YouTube and the Nextdoor social platform. It will also be running across ITVX and Channel 4’s on demand platforms until the end of August.

More information on the RSPCA’s No Animal Deserves Cruelty Appeal can be found on the charity’s website. To report animal cruelty or neglect please visit www.rspca.org.uk/ reportcruelty for further information.

GE24: Farmers wonder what happens next?

AFTER a long night watching election results come in across the UK, it became clear in the early hours of the night that Labour would win a historic landslide victory and soon form the next UK Government.

The six weeks following Rishi Sunak’s snap election call on May 22 has been a fast and furious race to the finish, peppered with scandals and the surprise growth and popularity of the Reform Party.

During the campaign, Wales’s farming unions and environmental lobbies laid out their asks for a new Westminster government.

FUW: LABOUR MANIFEsTO THIN ON AGRICULTURE

The FUW wrote to every candidate in Wales, provided them with its Manifesto, and held fifteen hustings, hearing from seventy-

one candidates.

FUW Senedd and Parliamentary Affairs Officer Lauren Price said: “This election has brought about considerable change to the political landscape of Wales.

“We have seen a significant reduction in the number of constituencies from 40 down to just 32, and we will need to work hard to ensure Wales’ agricultural voice is still heard in Westminster.

“There is some

concern that the new UK Labour Government’s Manifesto contained very little on agriculture and food security, plus questions surrounding inheritance tax relief on agricultural land will need to be asked.

“We’ll waste no time in working with the new UK administration to learn more about their plans for agriculture across the UK.

“We have reached out to all newly elected MPs in Wales, inviting them

to meet with us and with members on their farms, to hear the industry’s concerns directly from those affected.”

NFU CYMRU:

FARMERs NEED PROTECTION

NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “The next few years look set to be a defining period for Welsh agriculture. As a union, we very much look forward to working with our politicians as

we promote and seek to advance the interests of Wales’ farmers.”

Aled Jones continued: “Our Manifesto asked a number of things of the next UK Government. Amongst those is an inflation-adjusted, ringfenced and multi-annual agricultural support budget that will last until the next election, helping give the industry the certainty it needs to plan for the future and deal with market volatility.

“Alongside this, we have to see food production and food security given the priority they need and deserve to ensure we support primary production in Wales. That’s why we called on the next UK Government to establish minimum standards and promote fair and functioning supply chains, as well as increase the amount of Welsh food going to the public sector and strengthen country of origin labelling across

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

retail, hospitality and the service industries with clear and accurate labelling to allow informed consuer choice.

“We want to see future trade deals with third countries be more balanced, with the needs and sensitivities of the agricultural sector taken into account.

“Agriculture must no longer be a bargaining chip when it comes to making trade deals.”

Mr Jones concluded: “As we know, farming is one of the building blocks of the Welsh economy, underpinning a food and drink sector worth £8.1bn, which in turn employs 233,500 people.

“I am confident that with the support of our politicians in bringing about the right policy environment, NFU Cymru and its members can seize the opportunities that lay ahead and realise the sector’s potential.”

TFA: FOOD sECURITY VITAL

TFA National Chair Robert Martin said: “The TFA looks forward

to working with the new administration to build resilience in the tenanted sector of agriculture. However, the Party’s Manifesto contained little detail on its plans for agriculture. We will quickly need to understand the new Government’s food and farming priorities.

“I have taken the opportunity of writing to the Prime Minister to set out what the TFA believes needs to be at the top of the incoming Government’s in-tray”.

The top priority for TFA will be to see the new Government drive forward the recommendations from the Rock Review into agricultural tenancies.

Mr Martin reiterated the need for reform of the supply chain and called for an expanded and strengthened role for the Groceries Adjudicator.

Mr Martin concluded with a broadside at “vanity projects like rewilding”.

“Farmers are already delivering a huge amount of environmental benefit in terms of biodiversity,

landscape and the sequestration and storage of carbon.

“Corner solutions such as significantly reducing red meat and dairy production or taking out vast swathes of agricultural land for tree planting will not be the solution. The way forward is a land-sharing approach between agriculture and nature.

“Too many tenanted farm acres are being

lost to solar energy production, tree planting, and other development without adequate compensation being paid to the family farm businesses that are being displaced.

“That must not be allowed to continue.

“Food security needs to be higher up the public policy agenda but within a balance which delivers environmental and energy security

alongside.”

sOIL AssOCIATION: A HEALTHIER FOOD AND FARMING sYsTEM

Soil Association CEO Helen Browning said:

“Labour’s campaign manifesto made clear its desire to improve access to nature, promote biodiversity, decarbonise the energy system, and protect

our landscapes and wildlife while supporting farmers in shifting to more sustainable and nature-friendly farming practices.

“Labour claimed they will give new powers to regulators and introduce a land-use framework. They pledged to improve public health and ensure half of all public sector food is produced locally or to higher environmental standards.

“We urge that these commitments are now transformed into action. As a priority, Starmer’s Government should develop an economic framework that allows money to be generated from penalising the bad things through ‘polluter pays’ and ensure that those on low incomes can access healthy and sustainable diets, with farmers supported on a journey towards cleaner, greener agriculture.

“We look forward to working with the new Government to build a healthier food and farming system – one that works for people and planet.”

FUW calls for fair annual funding for Welsh agriculture

THE FUW wasted no time in sending a clear message to the incoming UK Labour Government at Westminster that Wales seeks a fair, annual funding settlement of £450 million in EU CAP legacy funding to support food production, the rural economy and the work farmers do for the environment.

Winning a landslide general election at a time when Welsh farming faces an important crossroads, the UK Labour Party now has the opportunity to influence the future of rural Wales for decades to come.

Speaking in response to the results, FUW President Ian Rickman said:

“Firstly, I would like to congratulate the newly elected Prime Minister and his party for a historic general election victory and thank those MPs we have worked closely with over the past five years.

“This election has brought about considerable change to the political landscape of Wales, with a significant reduction in the number of constituencies, changes in boundaries, and now a new UK Labour Government holding a majority in Westminster.

“The FUW is not affiliated to any political party and is therefore prepared to engage and work

with politicians from all parties to ensure the voices of Welsh farmers are heard.”

The FUW General Election Manifesto sets out the Union’s key priorities of the incoming government, focussing on securing a fair, multi-annual funding settlement of at least £450 million per year in EU CAP legacy funding for agriculture and rural development in Wales. The role of this support in underpinning food production, environmental protection and rural communities in Wales cannot be underestimated.

The newly elected UK Government must ensure that any future deals with other countries and trading blocs take a far more robust approach that protects UK farmers and food security. With that, food imports and exports must be subject to the same customs and standard controls, which provides a level playing field between UK and EU producers.

The Union’s Manifesto also calls on the UK Government to introduce procurement policies that prioritise public body support for Welsh and British

businesses and promote a more transparent supply chain.

“Whilst the direction of farming in Wales heavily depends on the development of devolved agricultural policies, we must not forget how decisions made by the incoming UK administration will effectively determine the degree of funding the Welsh Government has available to support agriculture and rural development. It will also rule the extent to which Welsh producers are expected to compete against producers in other UK nations and across the globe on various levels.

“This is why we will waste no time in contacting the newly elected MPs in Wales and those who take on influential roles in parliament to ensure that we outline our key priorities at an early stage.

“Despite the challenge of navigating an ever changing political landscape, our role as the FUW in lobbying governments for the best possible outcomes for Welsh agriculture remains constant and relentless,” said Ian Rickman.

Charities to benefit from mountain challenge

A DEDICATED team of staff from Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) and EIDCymru tackled Wales’s 3 highest peaks ahead of Mental Health Week (May 13-19), and raised £5000 for charity in the process. The 16-strong team tackled Wales’ 3 highest peaks: Yr Wyddfa, Cadair Idris and Pen Y Fan, within a 24-hour time period and raised money towards Tir Dewi, Wales Air Ambulance and the British Heart Foundation.

The challenge was set ahead of Mental Health Week’s ‘Moving more for our mental health’ theme, and the team completed it in a gruelling 17 hours and 45 minutes.

One of the team

members to take part, Sara Rees from EIDCymru, explained: “Tir Dewi was one of the chosen charities for the challenge as we see how much of an important asset they are within the agricultural industry, to the farmers we speak to every day. The Wales Air Ambulance Charity was also one of our chosen charities as it is widely used within the agricultural industry due to agricultural workers living and working in some of the most remote parts of the country which means when they suffer injuries it can be out of the question for traditional emergency services to reach them.”

HCC’s Campaigns Executive Philippa Gill, who led the initiative, said: “The British Heart Foundation is another

worthy charity that will benefit from the extra funding we were able to raise with this challenge. The challenge was tough, particularly in the hot weather, but we all managed to complete it within the time limit and with smiles on our faces by the end!”

Complimenting the team with their achievement, HCC Chair Catherine Smith said: “I wholeheartedly congratulate the team on this amazing achievement. Not only did they pull together as a team to complete the challenge on what was at that point the hottest day of the year, they also raised an amazing amount of money for the various charities who are much valued by our industry.”

Subaru (UK) Ltd records 30% sales growth so far in 2024

DURING the first half of 2024, subaru (UK) Ltd recorded a 30.2 % increase in vehicle sales over the same period in 2023, ending June with 1,426 new vehicle sales so far in 2024.

Subaru’s sales performance growth means the brand has outperformed the UK automotive industry, which ended June

6.01% up over the first half of 2023, with 1,006,763 vehicles registered, according to the latest data reporting from the SMMT. This performance also places Subaru among the top ten fastest-growing automotive brands in the UK.

The all-electric Subaru Solterra contributed a sales mix of 27%, the highest

mix attained by the model since its launch. Compared to other manufacturers that offer Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles alongside EVs in their UK model range, this performance positions the brand with the highest mix of EV sales at the half-year stage.

The Subaru Outback secured 29% of all Subaru sales during this

period and is the brand’s best-selling model so far in 2024, marginally ahead of the Solterra, with Forester attaining a 23% mix of sales.

The range of Subaru SUVs are tough, practical, and confidence-inspiring vehicles, built to handle life in town, the countryside and off the beaten track. Offering outstanding capability

when the going gets tough, Subaru’s SUVs offer up to 220mm of ground clearance and permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive along with the brand’s renowned X-MODE off-road system fitted as standard, ensuring maximum grip and traction, and exceptional road holding, whatever the weather or terrain conditions.

Volvo Car UK introduces new Black Edition models

VOLVO Car UK is adding a stylish monochrome look to its model range this summer with the introduction of Black Edition versions of its fully electric EC40 crossover and EX40 sUV, and petrol XC40 sUV. The new season also heralds the return of the V60 and V90 estate cars to the lineup to meet renewed customer demand.

The new Black Editions

The Black Edition models stand out with all-black exterior styling, including Onyx Black paintwork, black highgloss front grille, Volvo emblem and tailgate badging, plus 20-inch five-spoke high-gloss black alloy wheels. The package is available with two equipment grades, Plus and Ultra, with onthe-road prices from £40,720.

There are two powertrain choices for the EC40 and EX40 Black Edition models: in addition to the rear-wheeldrive 252hp Single Motor Extended Range, there is a new all-wheel-drive Twin Motor Performance version. This delivers 442hp (up from 408hp in other all-wheel-drive EC40s and EX40s) and a remapped accelerator response. It also comes with a Performance drive mode to help the driver enjoy the extra power to the full.

The XC40 Black Edition is offered with the B3 and B4 mildhybrid petrol powertrains, offering 163hp and 197hp respectively.

The Plus specification includes features such as a heated steering wheel and outer rear seats, front parking sensors, a powered driver’s seat with memory settings, an advanced air-purification system and Connect suede textile/microtech upholstery. The fully electric EC40 and EX40 also have an energyefficient heat pump for the climate control system that helps maximise driving range.

At the top of the

range, the Ultra versions add a 360-degree surround-view parking camera system and active bending pixel LED headlights with adaptive shadow technology.

A powered passenger seat and power-folding rear headrests are also provided, together with a tilt and slide panoramic sunroof (EX40 and XC40 models). The audio system is a 600W, 12-speaker Harman Kardon set-up with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound.

Back by popular demand: the Volvo V60 and V90 estates

A rise in customer demand has prompted a welcome return for the V60 and V90 estate cars to Volvo’s UK range. The models were removed from the portfolio in the summer last year, in line with changes in customer preferences, but renewed interest in the bodystyle –a key element of Volvo Cars’ heritage – has brought them back into the line-up.

The mid-size V60

is available in Plus and Ultra specifications with either the T6 or T8 petrol-electric plug-in hybrid powertrains, which combine a 145hp electric motor with a 253hp or 310hp petrol engine respectively, or the 197hp

B4 mild-hybrid petrol powertrain. The larger V90 offers the same trim choices, exclusively with plug-in hybrid power – the T6 for the Plus version and the T8 for the Ultra.

On-the road prices are from £43,370 for the V60

and £62,280 for the V90. All V60 and V90 plug-in hybrid variants enjoy a competitive benefit-inkind tax rating of 8% for business/company car users.

The new Black Editions and the V60 and V90 estates are on sale now, with first UK customer deliveries expected in Q3 2024. For more information and to use the online configurator, please go to www.volvocars.co.uk

Nurses qualify thanks to pioneering scheme

A sOCIAL care organisation in North Wales has launched a pioneering “grow your own” scheme to address the sector’s shortage of nurses.

Two members of staff at Pendine Park, which has care homes in Caernarfon and Wrexham, have become the first to successfully complete four-year nursing degree courses run in conjunction with the Open University.

Amy Rowlands was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree with first-class honours, while her colleague Sioned Williams gained a 2:1 degree with honours.

The pair work at Pendine’s Bryn Seiont Newydd care home on the outskirts of Caernarfon.

Proudly wearing the navy-coloured tunics of nurses, they are now looking forward to their graduation ceremony in Manchester later this year.

Both said they were “hugely grateful” to Pendine Park for the opportunity to study while working and for the support they received while undertaking the four-year course.

Amy, 30, who hails from Bangor but now lives at Pentraeth near Menai Bridge, left Ysgol Friars in Bangor and spent several years doing a variety of jobs before joining the staff at Bryn Seiont Newydd at the care home’s opening day in October 2015 and hasn’t looked back since.

She said: “Sixth form wasn’t working for me so I left school and found work in a café and at a petrol station before going into the care sector. I’d spent some time taking my grandmother for dialysis and just sitting with her and I knew then a career in care was what I wanted to do.

“Working at Bryn Seiont is my perfect job and I love being part of the team and after

gaining a number of

working on whole new

and trains staff who understand the sector and love working in a care home. It’s the best

“Amy and Sioned have been brilliant throughout and showed great dedication to working here at Bryn Seiont Newydd and we are all so proud of them,”

The care home’s head of nursing and deputy manager, Anne Jones, said: “Pendine Park is the only care organisation in North Wales offering this scheme alongside the

helped care for her gran and uncle before finding work with Pendine Park.

She said: “I came to Bryn Seiont Newydd soon after it opened and I’ve been here ever since. I trained to be a Clinical Care Practitioner and decided to take up the course to become a nurse.

“It brings a lot more responsibility and entails

other staff at the awardwinning home have enrolled on the course.

Bryn Seiont Newydd manager Sandra Evans said seven current staff members are currently following the same course as Amy and Sioned.

“There is a shortage of nurses in the care sector, but this innovative scheme meets demand

“Care home nursing is very different to hospital nursing. It’s a varied role and we have to be autonomous. There isn’t a doctor around every corner so you need to be up for the challenge and ready to deal with physical, physiological or psychiatric problems. We also take a holistic approach when we can.”

Leading the way to reduce the carbon footprint of inhalers

HYWEL DDA UHB is leading the way in Wales and the UK in supporting people to switch to more environmentally friendly inhalers and reduce their carbon footprint.

Inhalers contain essential medicines that help people with asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions.

However, up to 80% of inhalers prescribed in the UK use propellants that are powerful greenhouse gases that are thousands of times more powerful than carbon dioxide. They are safe to the person using them, but impact climate change as the single largest contributor to the NHS’s carbon emissions of any medicine.

The good news is there are modern inhalers that are just as good for most people but are much kinder to the world because they don’t contain greenhouse gases. These come in two different types, dry

powder inhalers and soft mist inhalers.

Currently across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire, the percentage of dry powder inhalers prescribed is at 48.7%, the highest now in the UK following a big push from nurses, pharmacists, doctors and especially patients this year.

Hywel Dda UHB is also the fastest changer in Wales with no increase in respiratory problems. The NHS Wales target is a shift to 80% of dry powder inhalers by 2025, so there is still some way to go.

Professor Keir Lewis Chair of the Inhaler Working Group and Clinical Respiratory Lead at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “We’re proud to be leading the way in reducing the environmental impact of inhaler prescribing.

“One single metered dose inhaler has the same carbon footprint as driving a family car from Llanelli to London, but

the dry powder ones are the same as driving to Neath.”

Clinical studies have shown dry powder inhalers to be equally effective and cost effective as metered dose inhalers.

Across the NHS, there is a drive to reduce CO2 emissions produced by the prescribing of inhalers for respiratory conditions - in line with the NHS Wales Decarbonisation Strategic Delivery Plan, and to support the ambition for a net zero NHS.

Professor Lewis added: “While swapping to a more environmentally friendly inhaler helps to reduce climate change, for those who can’t use the dry powder inhalers it is still important to make your inhaler work as well as possible and your healthcare professional will support you with this. This means taking it every day, as prescribed, and with the right inhaler technique.

“Managing your lung

condition well also means you’ll use fewer inhalers overall, which will help to reduce the carbon footprint of inhalers.”

Switching to lower carbon alternatives as prescribers is a part of Hywel Dda UHB’s wider efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

The NHS in Wales spends more than £74 million on inhalers each year so it is important

that people only order the inhalers they need. Wasted inhalers not only cost money but are also harmful to the environment. If you would like more information, speak to a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, sign up to the Health Hub or call the Asthma and Lung UK help line on 0300 22 25 800 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

Family says thank you to NHS with epic run from Bristol to Llangunnor

A family from Llangunnor, Carmarthen, is planning an epic run to raise funds for NHs services that provide vital care to their daughter, Mari Glyn.

The run, which takes place on 1st-4th August 2024, will see Mari Glyn’s father Carwyn Evans and a group of supporters run 110 miles from St Michael’s Hospital, Bristol, to Llangunnor.

They will pass the three hospitals which saved Mari Glyn’s life and provided her with vital care, including Glangwili Hospital.

The family will celebrate at Llangunnor Park at 3-6pm on 4th August to welcome Carwyn back from his 110-mile run. The event will feature children’s entertainer Siani Sionc, a hog roast, a bouncy castle and much more.

The funds raised for Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda Health Board, will go to the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at Glangwili.

Carwyn said: “We are raising money for the charities that helped us get our strong, determined, and brave little girl home.

“Following a heartbreaking diagnosis while 28 weeks pregnant, we had two antenatal procedures in Bristol before coming to a difficult decision at 31 weeks to deliver her early in a critical condition in a specialist hospital in Bristol.

“We couldn’t have our first cuddle until she was five weeks old. At six weeks old, Mari got over the worst and we were able to come back to Wales, but not home yet.

“We spent another six weeks between Singleton Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Glangwili Hospital’s SCBU receiving treatments and care, and slowly, reducing the need for breathing support and strong medication and when she established feeding, the three of us were able to come home almost three months later.”

Mari Glyn’s Mum, Bethan Wyn Evans, said: “Mari Glyn is our little miracle!

“We were cared for so well by the SCBU nurses and we are so fortunate to have our Consultant Paediatrician’s expertise at Glangwili Hospital.

“Having first class care in our communities is key and therefore we are raising money for Hywel Dda Health Charities to support the important services SCBU Glangwili provides in our local area.

“Our gratitude to the NHS is endless. Their ability, skill and kindness have saved our little family.”

Bethan Osmundsen, Senior Nurse Acute Paediatrics & Interim Senior Nurse Neonates at Glangwili, said: “Having a Special Care Baby Unit at Glangwili Hospital supports babies and families who require specialist care to stay together closer to home and provides a step down from a neonatal intensive care unit, to prepare babies and families for a safe discharge home.

“We are incredibly grateful to Bethan, Carwyn and all their supporters for their amazing efforts and for wanting to support our service. We are very privileged to be able to care for babies and their families at a difficult time, and being able to make

a difference drives our incredible team.

“All donations received make a big difference to our babies, families and staff. We wish them all the best for the event, and we will be cheering them on.”

Mari Glyn is now going from strength to

strength and continues to receive special care from Glangwili Children’s Centre.

The family’s story will be featured in an hourlong documentary on S4C’s Heno on the 26th of August.

Parents Bethan Wyn Evans and Carwyn Evans with Mari Glyn

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Seafish delivers on industry priorities

sEAFIsH is reflecting on progress made by working with industry and partners over the past year while also looking to a busy future with an annual plan published for 2024-25 and a levy review consultation underway.

In 2023, Seafish, the public body that supports the UK seafood industry, committed to a five-year corporate plan informed by feedback received from the industry during a strategic review.

The plan sets out seven industry priorities:

• Ensuring a safe and skilled workforce

• Facilitating and promoting international trade

• Responding to the climate change emergency

• Improving fisheries management

• Enabling supply chain resilience

• Improving data, insight, and innovation and championing industry reputation

Highlighting achievements made possible by working

closely with industry and wider stakeholders, Seafish pointed to a number of key accomplishments:

• The publication of Skilled Worker Visa guides helps the seafood industry navigate the legalities surrounding the employment of migrant workers.

• Safety and skills have been improved, with almost 6,000 training places delivered, and seafood businesses have occupied 43 exhibition spaces at four international trade shows.

• Seafood businesses have benefited from the advice on import charges, plastic packaging taxes, and extended producer responsibilities.

• Businesses can also now access a carbon emissions profiling tool to help the sector meet net-zero targets.

• Since leaving the EU, the seafood industry has had to adapt to changes in legislation. Seafish, DEFRA and the

MMO are working with 350 fishermen on fisheries management plans.

• Codes of practice on animal welfare commitments have been developed with the shellfish industry.

• An evidence-based response following misinformation being circulated about scampi has been developed.

• Health and safety workshops to support the industry were also welcomed.

Seafish has also published its latest annual plan, which sets out what it intends to deliver in the 2024 to 2025 financial year.

Seafish CEO Marcus Coleman said: “Ahead of our corporate plan being developed, the seafood industry gave us clear feedback on where you felt our assistance was needed most.

“By working closely with industry and wider stakeholders over the past year, we’ve been able to deliver outputs with real impacts. That included practical tools and resources, guidance and training,

and opportunities for UK seafood businesses to promote their products to key international markets.

“We know there’s still more work to do to help our UK seafood industry thrive, and we’re already underway with the delivery of activities in our Annual Plan for 2024 to 2025.

“Seafish is funded by levy, and delivering across our seven priorities wouldn’t have been possible without it.

“We’re currently consulting on proposed changes to that levy system so that we can continue to support the seafood industry across the UK.”

As part of its remit of supporting the seafood industry’s flourishing, Seafish promotes the best of the UK’s industry at international trade shows worldwide.

By hosting pavilions at these shows in Europe, Asia, and the United States, Seafish provides a platform for businesses across the sector to network and grow.

It’s just one of the priorities Seafish has been working towards,

and it is one that Chris Parker from the Wales Seafood Cluster has appreciated.

Mr Parker said: “Showcasing the range, quality, and provenance of seafood available from the UK, the UK pavilion provides a unified point for UK businesses to promote their businesses under the Great Britain banner, and also offers them the ability to give a much larger impression at a show of that size.”

Further information is available on the Seafish website. Visit the Who We Are and What We Do page to access a copy of Seafish’s annual plan for 2024 to 25.

Seafish has organised three levyrelated webinars that offer more information on the proposed changes. These will be held on Tuesday, 16 July, between 10am and 11.30am, Friday, 19 July, between 11.30am and 1.00pm and Friday, 26 July, from 1.30pm to 3.00pm.

Further sign-up information for the webinars and more details on the consultation are available on the Seafish levy review webpage.

Growth Guarantee Scheme welcomed

A BRITIsH Business Bank-administered scheme will help small firms invest in a borrowing environment held back by high interest rates.

Responding to news that the British Business Bank has launched the Growth Guarantee Scheme, Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “We are delighted that the British Business Bank has officially launched the Growth Guarantee Scheme to provide muchneeded finance to start-ups and scale-ups so they can grow.

“This support is something FSB has campaigned for vigorously, as we know

the predecessor scheme made a clear difference in supporting lending from banks and lenders to small businesses that would otherwise not have materialised as they came out from the worst of the pandemic.

“The new scheme will help small firms get the funding they require to be able to achieve their dreams.

“The Growth Guarantee Scheme will run until March 2026 and aims to support 11,000 small businesses over that period. Forty-one lenders have already signed up, and 20 are already open to applications.

“Small firms’ borrowing environment remains held back by stubbornly high interest rates and some reluctance among lenders to extend finance to firms seen as riskier and less viable due to their size and the diversity of proposals compared to their standard/

corporate counterparts.

“The over-application of personal guarantees has also dampened further small firms’ enthusiasm for borrowing to fund

expansion, which requires corrective action by the FCA under the direction of the new Treasury, which the Chancellor said will be the most pro-growth

Treasury the country has ever seen.

“We will be working closely with all parts of Government as they look to deliver on the Labour Party’s manifesto promise to protect the flow of funding to small firms amid the threat posed by the potential removal of the SME Supporting Factor, which allows lenders to hold a lower level of capital to counterbalance loans to SMEs, in the implementation of the Basel 3.1 standards.

“The Growth Guarantee Scheme will be an important part of the funding landscape for small firms, whose growth will be an indispensable ingredient in overall economic recovery in the UK.”

Award for one of the largest rooftop solar projects

PUFFIN Produce has installed more than 4000 solar panels, providing enough green energy to power both of its production sites on 100% selfgenerated electricity at peak output.

The £1.5m solar energy investment project has covered 6000 square metres of unused roof space at Puffin’s Woodland and Rosemary Lane sites in Pembrokeshire.

Generating its own green energy is a key part of Puffin’s ESG commitment, through the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi), to reduce its Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 46% by 2030 and to become Net Zero by 2040.

Running at peak output, the company expects to generate 2 MWh, enough to power its entire production and storage operations from the solar installation, saving an estimated 2.4t of CO2e per day*. That means Puffin will be able to offset most of its 3,780,000 kWh fullyear usage through selfgenerated electricity, enabling it to hit its 46% emissions reduction

commitment ahead of the 2030 target.

Puffin Produce CEO, Huw Thomas, said: “This investment reaffirms our ambition to be a catalyst of change in an industry that is a significant contributor to UK carbon emissions. With electricity being one of the key contributors to our carbon footprint, this investment in solar power is a key commitment in achieving our SBTi science-based targets. We are also pleased that we have been able to deliver the project by working closely with local specialist contractors.”

Puffin worked with Pembrokeshire-based Silverstone Green Energy and Havenkey Electrical Contractors to design and deliver the scheme while also minimising any impact on the sites’ operations. The third partner in the delivery of the project was National Grid.

The Puffin Produce and Silverstone project was recently named regional large-scale project of the year at the Wales Energy Efficiency Awards in Cardiff.

William Silverstone, of Silverstone Green Energy said: “This is the largest project we’ve worked on, and it’s evident by working with the Puffin team that they have a clear strategy, and this investment

shows how much they’re committed to making it a success. Winning the award has been a fantastic recognition of the team’s hard work and dedication to delivering a top-quality install,” he said.

Puffin Produce is the biggest supplier of Welsh produce in Wales, with headquarters in Withybush and growers farming mainly in Pembrokeshire. It grows and supplies potatoes including

Pembrokeshire Earlies PGI and the UK’s first carbon neutral potato brand, Root Zero alongside seasonal produce like Welsh Leeks PGI and Welsh daffodils.

cSThe Conservative Party: Power or Perish

THE CUMULATIVE effect of a decade of infighting, crises, scandals, and psychodrama, combined with a tendency to debase themselves and the United for the support of right-wing tabloids, ended fourteen years of an increasingly angry, fearful, and toxic Conservative government.

WHEN YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT

A government reflects its voters in a true mirror.

The way our electoral system works means that voters supported cutting public services.

Voters supported progressive economic selfharm and running down infrastructure.

Voters supported the rich getting substantially richer and the poor becoming substantially poorer.

Voters supported victimising the disabled and the unemployed.

Voters supported the UK turning its back on the rule of law both at home and abroad.

Voters loathed foreigners and immigrants; therefore, so did the government on their behalf.

And, in the end, when the voters got what they wanted for the last fourteen

years, they got angry with the Party that gave it to them and turned them out of office.

There are a million and one reasons not to vote Labour. For fourteen years, voters had no difficulty finding the ones that led them to vote Conservative. If one votes negatively (against something) instead of positively (for something), sooner or later, the reasons for voting for a Party become tied up with adverse outcomes you cannot support.

THE CONsERVATIVE PROBLEM

There is a fundamental political issue underpinning the Conservative Party’s problems and a vast underlying one.

Let’s deal with the last one: the UK’s population is ageing. More people are living longer. 25% of the population is over 60. That has created a severe economic problem, but we’re only looking at the political problem that presents for the Conservatives.

There is a timebomb under the core Conservative vote.

In 2010, the 18-24 year olds’ vote split evenly between Labour and the Conservatives. The Conservatives led among 24-35 year-olds.

choice was not of their making. Their parents and grandparents created it.

The gulf in Party votes in younger age groups is so great that the Conservative vote cannot top up its vote with ageing voters.

A NARROW FOCUs

We then have the political problem.

Well over half of the Conservative Party’s membership is 60+.

ensure their grandparents’ pensions would not be taxed.

The sceptical look on the young voter’s face and the audience’s disdain surprised Rishi Sunak.

Tone deaf and clueless are far too kind.

In 2024, it wasn’t even close between Labour and the Conservatives in those age groups.

In addition, the age at which former Labour voters “flip” to vote Conservative dramatically increased.

40% of voters over 60 voted Conservative. That figure is static compared to 2010.

The total Conservative vote depends on older voters turning out. As baby boomers born between the end of the Second World War and 1963 die off, the “natural” Conservative vote will fall with it.

Think of the issue this way: a voter first eligible to vote in the 1979 election is now anywhere between 63 and 68 years old.

They’ve had the chance - or their parents did - to buy their house at affordable prices and trade up or downsize as the market and family circumstances allowed. They’ve had the chance at free higher education, well-structured and funded apprenticeships, free movement in the European Union, and better-funded public services.

We’re talking about a generation that did not win two World Wars and one World Cup, go down the mines or man the production lines. The postwar explosion in living standards and consumer

The political priorities of that age group, in general, are strikingly different from those of other sections of the voting population. That difference is even greater among Conservative Party members.

To become the leader of the Conservative Party, you have to deliver a successful pitch to a small and ageing membership that does not reflect social, cultural, political and economic reality.

A sure-fire recipe for success that ain’t.

The comical side of that was on full display during the General Election campaign.

During the Sky TV debate, a younger member of the audience drew attention to the cost of student loans, the difficulties of getting a well-paid job, and the improbability of ever getting on the housing ladder.

What, the audience member asked, did the Conservatives offer young voters like him?

Rishi Sunak told him that “many parents” supported his intention to deliver National Service.

The audience giggled.

Mr Sunak then said that his government would lower taxes and that a growing economy would benefit everyone.

Silence and uncomfortable coughing followed.

Mr Sunak found his shovel and kept on digging. Young voters, he said, could vote Conservative to

The nature of modern campaigning means that party leaders are seldom exposed to an audience which is less than 100% loyal. The feedback loop such exposure generates dulls political antennae.

National Service, magical unprecedented economic growth, and not taxing granny’s pension doubtless played well in Conservative focus groups and among the average Conservative Party member.

Among other voters, they went down as well as you might expect.

THE NEXT LEADER

Conservative losses are so huge that the identity of Rishi Sunak’s successor as party leader now comes down to who is left in the Commons and wants the job. Two candidates must convince their fellow MPs that they have what it takes before the Party’s membership picks the worst and most disloyal of the pair presented to them.

That sounds cynical. However, in the last five years, Conservative Party members inflicted Boris Johnson and Liz Truss on the UK.

Suella Braverman could conceivably be next. That would make the last eight years of Conservative selfdestruction seem like a walk in the park on a sunny afternoon.

The Conservatives must decide how they can reconstruct themselves as a functioning political party in a modern democracy and do so as their existing certainties unravel.

A leader who appeals to the electorate is not necessarily one who will

The signs were there: Rishi Sunak, oblivious to the obvious (Pool Photo: Henry Nicholl/PA)

appeal to the membership. While we return to that below, it’s worth remembering one thing: to be an effective leader of the opposition (or Prime Minister), the overwhelming majority of your Party’s MPs must support you. If they do not, you’re pulled seven ways from Thursday.

MPs are supposed to use their judgement, not perform like seals for the Party membership or whichever faction within the Conservative Party they represent. During the last parliament and the one preceding it, Conservative MPs forgot or abandoned those facts.

They go to the heart of defining what the Conservative Party stands for.

DEFINING THE CONsERVATIVE PARTY

There is not one Conservative Party.

There is not one Conservative Party because there is no single definition of conservatism.

Inside the last term’s parliamentary Conservative Party, there were more factions than there are varieties of Heinz Beans, all of them believing they had the one true version of conservatism.

A smaller state, lower taxes, more efficient public services, free trade, greater personal liberty: check.

Paternalism, taxes lowered prudently, a commitment to public services, protecting British industry, clamping down on protest and dissent: also check.

Secular and modern,

confessional and traditional, a belief in the continuity of institutions and a willingness to tear the establishment to pieces, Check. Check. Check.

Those themes are constantly in flux within the Conservative Party in parliament and even within individual MPs’ thought processes.

The Conservative Party’s triumph is that it has managed to hold so many contradictory views within it for so long. The psychodrama of the last decade has thrown its internal divisions into the public eye as never before. The divide is so bitter that you can’t help but wonder why some members, MPs, and commentators ever supported the Conservatives, let alone joined the Party or became MPs.

The doctrinaire minority seized the levers of power and managed to propel the Conservative brand onto the same sort of rocks that, for much the same reasons, claimed Labour in the late 1970s and early 1980s and between 2015 and 2020.

In Labour, the entryists were Militant and Momentum. In the Conservative Party, what might loosely be termed “BluKippers” and their hangers-on did much the same. In a system with few active or activist Party members, the mechanism is simple and repeatable.

The result has been a drive to define “true conservatism” in exclusive terms. Those responsible seek to recast the Conservative Party in their own idea of what

conservatism is and means. If you are inside the Conservative Party and not one of them, you are not a true Conservative.

Their efforts have destroyed successive governments’ and ministers’ parliamentary authority.

Those inside the Conservative Party who claim that Rishi Sunak, Theresa May, David Cameron, and John Major are “Conservative in Name Only” are not conservatives. They do not believe in the plural traditions and pragmatism that made the Conservative Party the most successful election-winning machine in Western democracy.

THE WAY BACK

The path back to political power facing the Conservative Party resembles the punchline to the joke about a lost driver seeking directions from an unhelpful local.

“What is the best way to Puncheston?”

“Well, I wouldn’t start from here.”

The Conservative Party has several factors in its favour.

Firstly, the election results showed there was no great enthusiasm for Labour or Sir Kier Starmer.

Secondly, while the First Past the Post system delivered a massive kicking to the Conservatives on July 4, it historically favours parties with strong structures and a national apparatus. Reform UK, which garnered a lot of otherwise Conservative votes, has neither. Moreover, Reform’s status

BLUE VIEW

WITH BRIAN MURPHY

THERE is no getting away from it, the General Election was a disaster for the Conservative Party, and deservedly so.

What the results have shown us is that the voting public is never wrong, nor can their support be taken for granted. I knocked on many doors during the campaign and the message I got was quite loud and very clear. When politicians do not keep their promises, they will be punished.

as a limited company makes building such structures problematic, especially when it comes to information sharing and corporate compliance.

Moreover, the electorate is volatile, fractious, and impatient. Labour’s “change” must produce visible and measurable results. Better managing economic failure will not be enough. In that case, voters will not be inclined to give Labour the continuing benefit of their considerable doubts.

One further consideration is that some of the most divisive figures within the Conservative Party and with voters are no longer MPs.

True, Suella Braverman is still a Conservative MP. However, the idea that her fellow MPs will back someone who actively campaigned against her own Party’s leadership and slagged off governments in which she was a senior minister is almost risible.

Whoever its new leader is, the Conservative Party does not have the luxury of indulging loudmouths bellowing about single issues.

There is nothing wrong with political power. Without power, parties cannot serve. The lesson of history for the Conservatives is clear.

In 1906, in similarly tumultuous times to ours, Sir Henry Campbell Bannerman led the Liberal Party to a thumping 216seat majority. Only four years later, under Asquith (Campbell Bannerman died in 1908), the Liberal majority evaporated.

The last four Conservative manifestos have promised to reduce immigration and lower taxes. And when people see the boats arriving every day and the people on them are given priority over others for housing and benefits, they are angry; especially when there is a cost-of-living crisis.

Another message I received was that politicians need to be trusted and trustworthy. When the stories of MPs putting bets on the date of the election all the other reports of past scandals were resurrected, we were once again portrayed as the party of sleaze and corruption. But the Conservatives are not the only ones who have a dubious history.

Our very own First Minister, Vaughan Gething, received a £200,000 donation to support his leadership campaign from a convicted criminal. Others in the Labour Party are on record saying they would not have accepted it, because it stinks as much as the tip in Withyhedge.

It is being reported elsewhere that Keir Starmer’s aides manipulated the selection processes to his benefit and any detractors were blocked from standing. The allegations are that

the voting process was interfered with to ensure that only supporters of Starmer were nominated. Sir Keir himself is not immune to criticism. He was in charge of the CPS when they refused to prosecute Jimmy Saville. He may claim not to have been aware of the specifics of Saville’s crimes, but he was the one who set the standard for prosecuting decisions made during his tenure. How many other paedophiles avoided jail during Starmer’s time at the CPS? He was also at the CPS when all the SubPostmasters were wrongly convicted for theft. What did he know about that? Let us not forget the “work meeting” he had during Covid when he was seen relaxing with a bottle of beer. Considering that he recently said that he stops work at 6pm on Fridays how can he be at a “work meeting” at 9pm on a Friday.

The Labour Party has its fair share of wrongdoers as well, including Claudia Webbe, convicted for harassment. This is alongside the Labour Party members who did nothing to prevent the systemic rape and abuse of young females in Rotherham. And let’s not forget the multiple incidents of antisemitism in the Labour ranks, with the EHRC concluding that Labour acted illegally.

The list of scandals extends to other parties with allegations of sexual harassment, bullying and corruption.

I hope that all the newly elected MPs returned to Westminster this week take heed of past misdeeds and the next time I campaign on the doorsteps I will be able to have a conversation about policies and not peccadillos.

412 MPs in the orchestra: Labour’s parliamentary party

New Labour MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire heads to London

Henry Tufnell MP, the Labour MP for Mid and south Pembrokeshire is off to London this week (July 8th) to begin his first week representing the people of Mid and south Pembrokeshire.

In his first week in parliament, Henry is focusing on establishing his constituency office to support constituents and begin working on their behalf. Henry is also pushing for the opportunities that a new Labour Government will make in featuring Pembrokeshire at the heart of these policies. In particular, Henry will be focusing on Labour’s green prosperity plan and how Pembrokeshire can benefit from the investment and the subsequent jobs, skills, infrastructure and business investment that comes with it. On the campaign trail, it was

clear that residents want to see improvements to their lives both through economic policy and the opportunities available to them.

On his first day in parliament, Henry Tufnell said ‘It is an honour to be elected to represent the best constituency in the country. Pembrokeshire is a special place that often feels left behind and my job is to make sure Pembrokeshire is at the heart of government policy. We have a huge untapped potential in our people, resources and skills and I will be doing all that I can to make Pembrokeshire the best place to work, study and live. I am looking forward to establishing my constituency team to get on with the job of improving lives and being an MP for all.’

Project provides essential items to people in need

CWTCH MAWR is Wales’ first multibank, which helps struggling families in swansea.

The multibank sees businesses donate surplus items to be given for free to people who cannot afford them. These include cleaning products, household items, toiletries and furnishings.

In the first two months after its launch, Cwtch Mawr supported more than 15,000 people, hosting community events, cooking courses, drop-in events and celebrations like International Women’s Day.

Cwtch Mawr now has a strong network of 60 registered partners who collect donated items and deliver them to the people who need them. Social workers, health professionals, teachers and charities can refer people to the multibank for support.

Cwtch Mawr is run by the Swanseabased charity Faith in

Families, with support from Gordon Brown and Amazon, who cofounded the multibank initiative. The Welsh Government is providing £125,000 for the project’s start-up, with other support coming from local partners, including Swansea County Council, Pobl Housing Association, Moondance Foundation and Swansea Bay University Health Board.

The Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Lesley Griffiths, said:

“The cost of living crisis means many people are struggling to buy essential items, and it’s good to see how Cwtch Mawr is able to help people by providing lots of different essentials all in one place.

“This is a fantastic example of different sectors coming together to support people in their communities. By giving away unsold items, retailers can support the circular economy and

reduce their impact on the environment, while helping local people.”

Cherrie Bija, Chief Executive of Faith in Families, said: “The cost of living is no longer a crisis; it has become the norm for thousands in

our communities.

“Children are not just missing out on treats but on essentials like clothes, shoes, toys, and healthy food. In 2024, it’s heartbreaking to see this happening in Swansea, with

childhoods slipping away.

“Faith in FamiliesCwtch Mawr is stepping up, providing immediate, quality essentials to help families survive and hopefully thrive, in a unique partnership

with Amazon. There’s so much more to be done, but this collaboration is immense and enables us to come together with hundreds of charity partners across the region and provide –hugs not handouts.”

Henry Tufnell MP, Labour MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire pictured at the House of Commons (Monday 8th July 2024).

Voter registration bill passes Senedd

ON TUEsDAY, July 9, the senedd passed a new law to register electors automatically and modernise electoral administration.

The Welsh Government claims the Bill will “remove barriers to democratic engagement and create a system of electoral administration fit for the 21st century”.

Once the Bill gets Royal Assent, the Welsh Government will introduce pilot schemes that lead to automatic voter registration (AVR) for Welsh Parliamentary and council elections.

The Welsh Government estimates the move will add up to 400,000 voters to the register.

Alongside that measure, a new allWales body will be responsible for co-ordinating the administration of Welsh elections.

AVR means voters are automatically added to the register by local authority officers and don’t have to initiate the process themselves.

Voters are then contacted to ensure the

details are correct, to ensure they are happy to be added to the register, and whether they want to register anonymously.

The Electoral Reform Society has hailed the passing of the Bill as a big step forward for Welsh democracy.

The Society is now urging the UK government to introduce AVR across the Country to help enfranchise millions of missing voters. The Labour Party committed to ‘improving voter registration’ in its manifesto.

Last year, the Electoral Commission found that up to 8 million people were not registered to vote or registered incorrectly.

Substantial demographic inequalities exist in terms of the different people more likely to be registered to vote.

Electoral Commission figures show that young people are far less likely to be registered to vote than older people, with 60% of 18-19-yearolds registered in Great Britain and 67% of 20-24-year-olds, compared to 96% of

over 65s.

Jess Blair, Director of ERS Cymru, said:

“The passing of the Elections and Elected Bodies (Wales) Bill sees Wales leading the way in modernising UK democracy.

“The introduction of AVR will level the playing field and should vastly reduce the number of people missing from the register.

“This Bill also sees an emphasis on improving the information available to voters at election time and puts measures in place to increase the diversity of our political institutions.

“Modernising Welsh democracy has been an ongoing piece of work, with the franchise extended to 16 and 17-year-olds for Welsh elections back in 2020. Recently, the Senedd also voted to strengthen the Welsh Parliament by increasing the number of members and moving to a proportional list voting system.

“The new government in Westminster should look across Offa’s Dyke and learn from the democratic innovation taking place in Wales.

72 reasons to be Positively Liberal this week, after last Thursday’s General Election. Party Leader Ed Davey now leads the largest group of Liberal (Democrat) MP’s in the Commons, for over 100 years.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

social care. The NHS and social care were central planks for our election campaign and it resonated with the electorate. The position of unpaid carers would also be part of discussions.

“Welsh voters will soon have many more barriers removed to their participation, and we hope voters across the border will join them in this soon.”

The Bill, which is expected to get Royal Assent in the summer, also includes commitments to expand the role and remit of the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru.

Wales’s CounselGeneral, Mick Antoniw, said: “This is a big year for elections, with last week’s General Election reminding us everyone’s vote counts. By voting, we can determine who runs our governments.

“Every citizen must have the opportunity to vote and that means being on the electoral register.

“According to the Electoral Commission, around 400,000 people are missing from it. This is bad for democracy.

“Members of the Senedd have voted to bring our electoral system into the 21st century and to make it more accountable and accessible to the people of Wales.”

Here in Mid & South Pembrokeshire, our share of the vote doubled and we saved our £500 deposit for the first time in a few elections and I thank everyone who voted for our candidate, Alistair Cameron. I also congratulate Henry Tufnell, who won the seat for Labour, and commiserate with Stephen Crabb who lost his seat.

The new House of Commons met this week, with possibly the largest intake of new faces, for many years.

The Liberal Democrats are back as the third largest party.

The Liberal Democrats are planning to hit the ground, running. They plan to put pressure on new PM, Keir Starmer, to initiate cross-party talks on a new plan for

As well as Ed Davey getting coverage of his stunts, the Liberal Democrats also released an election broadcast showing Ed at home, helping to care for his disabled teenage son.

The Party said the issue was constantly raised on the campaign trail. The Party also said “we won’t be playing party political games with the issue. It’s time for cross party talks on social care funding, where tough but essential decisions are needed. Unpaid carers must be brought out of the shadows and truly supported. Carers were notably absent from the Labour manifesto. This is a watershed moment for tackling the care crisis.”

Time will tell if the other political parties are prepared to come together to tackle this vital issue.

death notices

B RONWELL P ERRY E DWARDS

EDWARDS Bronwell Perry Of Crundale Bronwell passed away peacefully on the 1st July, 2024 aged 98 years. Dearly loved wife to the late Walter, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Funeral service, Wednesday 24th July, 11.00am at Hill Park Chapel, Haverfordwest followed by committal at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 12.15pm. Family flowers only. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

G ABRIELLE A NN J AMES

JAMES Gabrielle Ann James Haverfordwest Ann passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Wednesday 26th June 2024, aged 93 years, of Lindsway Park, Haverfordwest but formerly of Philbeach Farm, Dale. Beloved wife of the late Tom James, devoted mother and mother-inlaw of Melanie and Tom Richards, Nicholas and Jennifer James, Rachel and John Mullett and a much-loved grandmother and great-grandmother. Ann was loved dearly and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. The funeral service will take place on Friday 12th July 2024 at 2:00pm at St.

Peter’s Church, Marloes followed by interment in the churchyard. Family flowers only, donations in lieu for Only Boys Aloud can be sent c/o Tom Richards, Brimaston Hall, Hayscastle, Haverfordwest, SA62 5PW. Alternatively, donations can be made on the Only Boys Aloud website www.Aloud. cymru. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Milford Haven. Tel: 01646 693180

DAVID G ARETH M URROW

MURROW David Gareth Little Newcastle Suddenly at home on Thursday 27th June, Gareth of Little Newcastle. Beloved partner of Diane, loving brother of Rowena and Emrys, he will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Funeral service on Tuesday 16th July at St Peter’s Church, Little Newcastle at 12 noon followed by interment in the Churchyard. Immediate family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to the ‘British Heart Foundation’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

S HIRLEY A NN W ILLIAMS

WILLIAMS Shirley Ann Peacefully on Monday,1st July at home with the family, Shirley, of Ashleigh, Penffordd, Clunderwen. Beloved wife of Roy, dear

mum of Donna, loving nanny of Charlie and Jessica. Funeral Service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Monday, 15th July at 11.30a.m. Family flowers only. Donations if so desired towards The Paul Sartori Foundation. c/o Ken Davies Sons, Funeral Directors, Blaenwern, Bro Waldo, Clunderwen. SA66 7NQ. Tel: 01437 563319

DAVID J AMES DAVIES

DAVIES David James of Little Nash Farm David passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on the 14th June, 2024 aged 88 years. Dearly loved, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Funeral service, Friday 12th July, 1.45pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

T ERRY M ORRIS

MORRIS Terry Goodwick Sadly at his home on Wednesday 26th June, Terry of Dyffryn, Goodwick. Beloved husband of Ruth, loving father and father-inlaw of Catherine, Bethan and Dave and a devoted brother of Anthony. Funeral service on Monday 15th July at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1pm. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Greenacres Animal Rescue’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral

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

A LAN H ORLEY

HORLEY Alan Cresselly Alan passed away peacefully on Friday 28th June at Withybush Hospital after a sudden illness. Devoted Husband to Di. Wonderful Dad to Keith, Debs and Andie. An adored Grandad to Richard, Imogen and Seb. A dear Brother and Uncle. A loyal member of the ‘Wrinkly Riders’ and an avid cyclist and seafarer for many years. Alan and his stories will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. It was Alan’s wish that no formal funeral will take place. There will be family flowers only. Should you wish to make a donation, the family would be very grateful for any donations to go to Teddington Lifeboat, R.N.L.I. c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876

C OLIN C HARLES F IELDER

FIELDER Colin Charles Colin passed away peacefully at his home with his daughters at his side on June 24th aged 91 years. Much loved, he will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all his family and many Funeral Tuesday July 16th service 2.00 pm at All Saints Church,

Walton West, Little Haven followed by interment in Walton West Cemetery, Little Haven. Family flowers only. Donations, if desired, may be made payable to The Masonic Charitable Foundation and sent c/o Mr. Harry Randel, The Mount, Portfield Gate, Haverfordwest, SA62 3LN. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

E DWIN T UDOR B UICK

BUICK Edwin Tudor of St.Davids. Suddenly on 27th June. Beloved husband of Val. Dearly loved father of Adam and Greg. Much loved grandfather of Euan, Arthur, Alma and Sunny. Funeral service on Thursday 11th July, 2.00pm at St. David’s Cathedral to be followed by interment in St. David’s Cemetery. No flowers. Donations if desired for Medecins Sans Frontieres can be made via online donation msf. org.uk/donate. Enquiries to W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, St. Davids 01437 720537

M RS . R AYMA E DITH A NN DAVIES

DAVIES Mrs. Rayma Edith Ann St Florence (Formerly of Westmoor Farm, Manorbier) Mrs. Rayma Edith Ann Davies died peacefully on Monday 17th. June 2024 surrounded by her family

at Glangwili Hospital, Carmarthen, aged 78 years. Devoted and much loved wife of Ken, loving Mother of Jayne, Rachael and Edward. Cherished Granny to William, Evan, Daniel, Jamie, Alex, Kate and Jack. The funeral service will take place on Monday 15th. July 2024, with a service at St. James’ Church, Manorbier at 1.00.pm followed by a private interment. Family flowers only please with donations in lieu if desired, for The Critical Care Unit at Glangwili Hospital c/o John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

VALERIE M ARY G ARROD

GARROD Valerie Mary Llandissilio, Clunderwen. Peacefully on Monday, 1st July, at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest, Val, of Brynmaen, Llandissilio, beloved wife of Phil, dear mother of Tracey and Tina, respected mother-in-law and loving grandmother. Funeral Service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Wednesday, 24th July at 11.30a.m. Family flowers only. Donations if so desired towards Ward 10 at Withybush Hospital. c/o Ken Davies & Sons, Funeral Directors, Blaenwern, Bro Waldo, Clunderwen. SA66 7NQ Tel: 01437 563319

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S & no TI ce S

MISLEADING WIND INFORMATION

DEAR sIR

Once again, wind farm developers use misleading information to convince planners and politicians to go ahead with their proposals. Nation Cymru, 4 July, reported that ‘Y Bryn wind-farm could see the area as the new home for up to as many as 18 turbines that would measure up as some of the UK’s tallest on-shore turbines, measuring between 206 to 230 metres, and up to 250 metres to tip. It means they could eventually stand at a massive 820 feet tall if given the go-ahead, more than double the height of the tallest building in Wales, The Tower, Meridian Quay in swansea –and almost as high as London’s The shard. Developer, Coriolis, has said Y Bryn could eventually generate the equivalent energy of 85,700 “average UK homes” once completed in the coming years, a number they add is approximately 68% of households in Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend council areas

combined.’

Just about all windgenerated and solargenerated electricity is fed into the National Grid, from when it can go just about anywhere - it is utterly disingenuous to associate Y Bryn’s proposed output with local homes. Some people do tend to think that local wind farms supply local areas - and it seems that nearly all Welsh politicians believe that to be the case. Labour, the LibDem and Green parties in Wales seem to think that plastering our tiny nation with the biggest inland turbines in the world is making Wales ‘green’ and reaching net zero. However, even if these environmental disasters supplied only Wales, and our country then relied for electricity only on our renewable resources, our politicians would have to magically adjust wind speeds between certain operating parameters and also make the sun shine at night, on cloudy days and in drizzle. All wind and solar renewables require an almost instantaneous back-upat tremendous costs - of electricity sourced from gas and nuclear ‘farms’. (The renewables industry refers to its power generation stations as

‘farms’ - good marketing, like ‘smart’ motorways and ‘smart’ meters. Why not rename reliable sources of energy?)

And, knowing that the households in Neath, Port Talbot and Bridgend will not directly gain from a ‘green power’ input from Y Bryn, let us re-examine the claim that the proposed wind monsters will supply “87,500 average UK homes” claim. That figure is the maximum capacity for the ‘farm’ - but the wind industry itself accepts that their inland ‘farms’ are only around 25% efficient - the actual number would therefore be around 21,875 homes - wherever they might be. And - only around a third of electricity is used by homes - the rest goes into the UK infrastructure, hospitals, schools, industry, offices etc. So we are looking at supplying just 7,292 homes by destroying the landscape. Whenever there is a new proposal for x number of local houses benefiting from a new wind development, divide x by 12. And cross out ‘local’.

Because such large developments fit in with Wales’ ‘strategic plan’ to reach an unattainable net zero target, hundreds of the 820-feet high wind generators (they are

not turbines) will get the go-ahead, despite any protests about peat loss, tree and hedge loss, bird, bat and insect deaths, increased flooding, the infill of 4,000 tonne bases of rubble and concrete for each turbine, access roads, pylons etc. England has not needed to approve any inland wind farms since 2015 - Wales is instead over-contributing to UK targets. Who benefits?

If Y Bryn goes ahead, I urge readers to visit the completed site - you won’t be allowed too near - but it will make you wish to protest about the dozens of other sites in the pipeline.

Terry Breverton Penarth

BORE DA MR BRAMBLE.

DEAR sIR

Following the recent sewage spill in the Tenby area, and the announcement by the company that they will not be replacing a faulty pipe for another two years, I strongly urge the authority to investigate the prosecution of Dwr Cyrmu. It is completely unnacptable that we should have to suffer

pollution at this level within days of restoring the Blue Flag status to our beaches. We are faced with a totally inept enforcement regime in NRW and it falls upon us locally to uphold at least some basic standards of water quality. It no longer good enough to stand on the sidelines wringing our hands and looking towards well meaning individuals to have yet another meeting. Our local tourist industry relies upon statutory bodies to provide the basic services, and this must include clean bathing waters, the reputational damage done is considerable. Not many years ago we took action to insist that a UV plant was installed in the Gumfreston pumping station, those of us involved in that campaign honestly believed at that time the company was intent on raising their standards. It appears that yet again the wool was pulled over or eyes. Our first duty should be to ensure the safety of the public. To deliver this there must be a prosecution undertaken of this failing company.

Cofion cyness. Michael.

PIc Ture oF THe weeK!

Marloes By DaviD Glover

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THaverfordwest star Kai Whitmore signs for Newport County

HAVERFORDWE s T

football star Kai Whitmore has secured a dream move, signing with Newport County on a two-year deal.

The Exiles are optimistic that Whitmore can follow in the footsteps of previous players who have successfully transitioned from the Cymru Premier to the English Football League (EFL). Whitmore, 23, is the fourth summer signing for County, joining left-back Anthony Glennon, right-back Joe Thomas, and centreback Ciaran Brennan.

Whitmore strengthens a midfield currently comprising Bryn Morris, Aaron Wildig, and young talent Jac Norris. Last season, the midfielder made 32 appearances and scored four goals for Haverfordwest after transferring from Penybont, where he played in the 2022/23 season.

“I enjoyed the challenge in the Cymru Premier, and I believe the experience of playing in Europe and in big stadiums will aid my step up,” stated Whitmore, who featured in UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers. “I like to play as a number eight, box to box, and create opportunities. My immediate goal is to get as fit as possible,

acclimate to full-time training, and hopefully play as many games as I can.”

County have high hopes for Whitmore, who caught the eye with his performances at Penybont and Haverfordwest in the Cymru Premier. His signing comes as the club searches for a new head coach following the departure of manager Graham Coughlan.

Hard-working forward Will Evans, who previously played for Cardiff Met and Bala, shone in his second season with the Exiles, netting 25 goals. Nathan Wood is set to return

for pre-season after a loan spell in Ireland with Cork, having initially joined from Penybont. James Waite, another former Penybont player, departed at the end of last season after 93 appearances for the Rodney Parade club.

Defender Priestley Farquharson is another success story, moving to League Two rivals Walsall after impressing for Connah’s Quay Nomads and developing into a commanding figure at the back. Summer signing Joe Thomas also has roots in Welsh club football, having earned his spot with Swansea City’s academy after

standing out at Cambrian & Clydach in the Cymru South.

Whitmore’s former boss, Tony Pennock, a former County goalkeeper, is confident in Whitmore’s potential to excel in the EFL. “Kai’s performances in Europe were excellent,” said Pennock, who played for County between 2005 and 2008. “If he can replicate those European performances regularly, he will undoubtedly make his mark as a League Two player.

“He is extremely fit, carries the ball well up the pitch, and is technically very proficient, which explains

his time at Swansea as a youngster. His development continued at Ammanford, Penybont, and with us here at Haverfordwest.

“Everyone at the club wishes him well. If he can absorb the knowledge provided at full-time level, he is certain to improve further and take the next step.”

Whitmore’s journey from the Cymru Premier to the EFL is a testament to his hard work and dedication. As Newport County look forward to the new season, the addition of Whitmore to their squad brings renewed hope and excitement.

A fantastic inaugural five-a-side event in St Florence

sATURDAY (Jul 6) marked the successful launch of Blakey’s 5-A-side Tournament, held in honour of Ben Blake. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd, with attendees praising the fantastic atmosphere and community spirit. Live music provided the perfect ending to a wonderful day.

All proceeds from the event were donated to the Wales Air Ambulance and Get The Boys A Lift, making the day even more meaningful. Thank you to everyone who came out and supported these great causes!

Saundersfoot cricket triumphs over Neyland in stunning victory

IN a match filled with excitement and surprises, saundersfoot delivered an assured and committed performance to defeat Neyland, the Bowl holders, by a resounding 100 runs. This unexpected outcome, taking place at saundersfoot Cricket Ground, left even the most ardent Neyland supporters acknowledging the welldeserved victory of the seasiders.

The match commenced with a close call for Tom Mansbridge, who narrowly escaped being caught from Patrick Hannon’s first delivery, which instead rolled down the slope for a four.

Mansbridge capitalised on his luck, scoring an additional 18 runs off the remaining five balls.

Neyland’s chase began disastrously when their key batsman, Paul Murray, was caught at midon by Gareth Edwards

off Sam Franklin’s first delivery. After just four overs, Neyland found themselves struggling at 4 for 2, with opener Alan Webster dismissed for a duck after facing only five balls.

Seasiders Start Strong

From the outset, Danny Caine and Tom Mansbridge aggressively targeted Patrick and Sean Hannon, scoring boundaries from loose deliveries. Their partnership reached 44

in the fifth over before Caine was bowled by the Neyland captain for 13, having hit one six.

Caine’s departure proved fortuitous for Saundersfoot as Sam Franklin joined Mansbridge at the crease. The duo added an impressive 97 runs before Mansbridge was caught at the mid-wicket boundary by Dai Davies off Jack John for a rapid 75, which included 10 fours and three sixes.

The fall of wickets continued with John Mansbridge bowled for a duck by Jack John, followed by Danny Brace’s dismissal for 1, caught at mid-wicket by George Evans off Brad McDermott-Jenkins.

The same bowler then claimed the wickets of Yannic Parker, Gareth Edwards, Scott Helmich, Iori Richards, and Simon Stanford, ending with notable figures of 6 for 41.

Despite the flurry

of wickets, Franklin maintained his aggressive batting, finishing unbeaten on 76, which included 12 fours and a six, guiding Saundersfoot to a formidable total of 196 runs in 22 overs.

Neyland Struggles to Recover

Neyland, missing several key players, started their innings poorly, and with their early collapse to 4 for 2, their confidence waned. Brad McDermott-Jenkins and Ross Hardy attempted a recovery, scoring 18 and 22 respectively, both hitting two fours and a six. Jack John contributed 24 runs, but their efforts were insufficient against Saundersfoot’s spirited fielding and bowling.

Man of the Match Sam Franklin’s exceptional performance with the ball, taking 4 for 34, complemented his outstanding batting, and he played a crucial role in dismantling Neyland’s batting line-up.

Neyland captain Sean Hannon graciously acknowledged their defeat, recognising Saundersfoot’s dominance. If Saundersfoot maintains this high level of performance, they are poised to challenge any team in the county and might even be considered co-favourites for the Bowl. This commanding victory not only knocked out the reigning champions but also signalled Saundersfoot’s potential to be a formidable force in the competition.

Thomas carroll Pembrokeshire league Table

RESULTS 22/06/2024

Carew (95) lost to Neyland (193-7) by 98 runs

Cresselly (274-7) beat Haverfordwest (224-8) by 50 runs

Lawrenny (90-3) beat St Ishmaels (89) by 7 wkts

Saundersfoot (271-3) beat Llangwm (133) by 138 runs

Whitland (114-4) beat Narberth (111) by 6 wkts

Burton (273-4) beat Johnston (122) by 151 runs

Herbrandston (110-1) beat Lamphey (109-9) by 9 wkts

Hook (203) lost to Carew II (206-3) by 7 wkts

Llechryd (173-7) lost to Pembroke (174-1) by 9 wkts

Pembroke Dock (152) beat Llanrhian (93) by 59 runs

Haverfordwest II (151-6) lost to Kilgetty (152-7) by 3 wkts

Narberth II (74) lost to Burton II (225-6) by 151 runs

Neyland II (86-2) beat Hook II (85) by 8 wkts

St Ishmaels II (74) lost to Cresselly II (76-2) by 8 wkts

Stackpole (170-2) beat Fishguard (169-6) by 8 wkts

Carew III (155-6) beat Laugharne (154-6) by 4 wkts

Hundleton (328-5) beat Pembroke Dock II (112) by 216 runs

Llangwm II (242-3) beat Llechryd II (85) by 157 runs

Llanrhian II (131-6) lost to Lawrenny II (197-7) by 66 runs

Pembroke II (212-6) beat Saundersfoot II (152) by 60 runs

Crymych (231-5) beat Herbrandston II (119-9) by 112 runs

Haverfordwest III (107-1) beat Stackpole II (106) by 9 wkts

Laugharne II (103) lost to Cresselly III (104-4) by 6 wkts

Neyland III (48) beat Whitland II (49-3) by 7 wkts

Kilgetty II (123) tied with Hundleton II (123-8)

Lamphey II (186-3) lost to Pembroke III (187-1) by 9 wkts

Whitland III (47) lost to Haverfordwest IV (48-1) by 9 wkts

FIXTURES 29/06/2024

Haverfordwest IV v Kilgetty II

Lamphey II v Llechryd III

Whitland III v Hundleton II

Herbrandston II v Cresselly III

Laugharne II v Haverfordwest III

Stackpole II v Neyland III

Carew III v Pembroke II

Hundleton v Llechryd II

Lawrenny II v Laugharne

Llanrhian II v Saundersfoot II

Pembroke Dock II v Llangwm II

Herbrandston II v Cresselly III

Laugharne II v Haverfordwest III

Stackpole II v Neyland III

Haverfordwest IV v Kilgetty II

Lamphey II v Llechryd III

Whitland III v Hundleton II

The Pembrokeshire Herald 12/07/2024

Family pay tribute to ‘beautiful and amazing’ Sophie

New Older People’s Commissioner announced

Charged with multiple charges against children

Several injured in terrifying incident on theme park ride

Sad to see the decline of our local theme park

CONCERNED PARENTs AND FORMER EMPLOYEEs

Motorist denies drug-driving

Corsa driver narrowly avoids prison

Sacked Minister did NOT leak confirms Nation Cymru

Pembrokeshire pokes through the energy mists

Pedlar jailed for selling knives

Four sentenced for smuggling drugs into Parc Prison with drones

Tata unmovable on blast furnace closure

Booze binge leads to CoOp store exclusion order

Woman admits stealing food and booze

A 34-YEAR-OLD

Guilty pleas after cannabis plants worth £2m found at former school

Appeal after pedestrian hit by vehicle

Former Minister’s Statement Piles Pressure on Gething

ECONOMY WITH THE TRUTH

GETHING sACKED MINIsTER WITHOUT DIsCLOsING EVIDENCE

MORE QUEsTIONs FOR FM TO DUCK

Motorist sentenced for A40 collision

On trial for skipping bail and failing to give a specimen

Man arrested on suspicion of murder in Carmarthenshire

The Future of Haverfordwest – Engagement events

Man dies at Pembrokeshire-linked recycling centre

Discovery of ‘human-looking hand’ stops play at Tenby Golf Course

Thousands enjoy great Wales Airshow weekend

MIKE EDWARDS

Completion of Tiers Cross council houses

20MPH fines have reached ‘an astounding amount’ say Welsh Conservatives

King marks Senedd’s 25th year

BETTER REPREsENTATION, INCREAsED sCRUTINY

PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

£3.7m additional funding to protect and preserve Wales’ national treasures

Man

died of ‘heart

attack’ whilst climbing Welsh mountain

Milford Haven Carnival 2024: Round Table praised for ‘best parade in years’

Butterflies on the Move: Help Track Spread of Species

Successful handover of Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Penfro

Minister criticised for refusal to back Senedd veto over damaging UK trade deals

Less fires, but more floods and traffic incidents for our fire service

Lifting of onshore wind ban will bring cheaper bills for consumers

Welsh drivers fined due to ‘misleading’ bus gate signage

Cabinet recommended to approve Pembrokeshire hosting Eisteddfod 2026

Stephen Seagull’s and the election ‘landslide’

Badger and a question of boundaries

Fishguard Festival of Music launches feast of live classical music

From Little Mix,

Taylor Swift, Harry Styles and more at the Torch!

Tim Howe tells all about The Wind in the Willows

gamIng

HOROSCOPES

Tracy wins top prize

New degree apprenticeships announced to help build the Wales of the future

educa TI on

RSPCA animated film goes viral amid busiest period for animal cruelty

GE24: Farmers wonder what happens next?

FUW: LABOUR MANIFEsTO THIN ON AGRICULTURE

FARMERs NEED PROTECTION

TFA: FOOD sECURITY VITAL

sOIL AssOCIATION: A HEALTHIER FOOD AND FARMING sYsTEM

Charities to benefit from mountain challenge

Subaru (UK) Ltd records 30% sales growth so far in 2024

Volvo Car UK introduces new Black Edition models

Nurses qualify thanks to pioneering scheme

Leading the way to reduce the carbon footprint of inhalers

Family says thank you to NHS with epic run from Bristol to Llangunnor

bu SI ne SS

Seafish delivers on industry priorities

Growth Guarantee Scheme welcomed

Award for one of the largest rooftop solar projects

cSThe Conservative Party: Power or Perish

WHEN YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT

THE CONsERVATIVE PROBLEM

A NARROW FOCUs

THE NEXT LEADER