The Pembrokeshire Herald 23/08/2024

Remanded into custody on serious burglary charges

A PEMBROKE DOCK man accused of a serious burglary offence has been remanded in custody following his first court appearance. Brian Davis, 53, of Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, appeared before magistrates on August 15, facing charges related to a high-value theft.

The court heard that on 2nd April 2023, Mr Davis allegedly broke into Sinclair Garages in Neyland and stole keys and several motor vehicles with a combined value of approximately £90,000. The charge, brought under section 9(1)(b) of the Theft Act 1968, relates to burglary other than dwelling— theft.

Court

Reporter

Representing the prosecution, Simone Walsh from the CPS, outlined the serious nature of the alleged offence, prompting concerns that Davis might abscond if granted bail.

As a result, the magistrates, chaired by Mr A. Smith, along with Mr D. Fawcett and Mrs L. Harrison, denied bail, citing the seriousness of the charge and the likelihood of the defendant fleeing.

Davis, who was represented by Tom Lloyd, entered no plea during this initial hearing. The case has been committed to Swansea Crown Court for trial, with

a Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing scheduled for September 5.

The hearing at Swansea Crown Court is set to take place at 09:30 in The Law Courts on St. Helens Road, Swansea. It is expected to last approximately 30 minutes. Davis will remain in custody until that time, with the Crown Court set to consider the full arguments regarding bail and the preparation for his trial.

The court confirmed that no victim personal statement had been given at this stage, and a pre-sentence report has not yet been ordered.

Further updates on this case will follow as it progresses through the Crown Court.

Man charged with alleged ‘acid attack’ in Carmarthenshire

A CARMARTHENSHIRE man has been charged following a shocking ‘acid attack’ in Tipi Valley, Llandeilo, which took place on Wednesday (Aug 14).

Jivan Dean, 23, who is of no fixed abode, faces charges of grievous bodily harm and throwing a corrosive substance over a person.

The severity of the alleged attack prompted an increased police presence across Carmarthenshire, with officers conducting extensive enquiries to locate the suspect. As part of their investigation, police carried out checks at several pubs in Llanelli town on Thursday night, responding to potential sightings and tips from the public.

Dean was finally apprehended in the Llanelli area during the late afternoon on Friday, 16 August, after several reports from vigilant members of the public. The swift response from the local community played a crucial role in his capture.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police expressed gratitude to the residents of Carmarthenshire for their cooperation. “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all those in our local communities who assisted

officers in locating the suspect. Your patience and understanding throughout this process have been invaluable,” the spokesperson said.

Dean remains in custody as he awaits further legal proceedings. The victim of the attack is currently receiving medical treatment, and their condition remains under close observation.

The incident has highlighted the serious nature of such crimes and

the need for continued vigilance in the community. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by corrosive substances and the lasting impact they can have on victims. The community now awaits the outcome of the legal process, hopeful that justice will be served.

Milton man jailed for driving whilst disqualified

A 32-YEAR-OLD man from Milton, Tenby, has been sentenced to 18 weeks in prison after being convicted of driving while disqualified. The case was heard at Carmarthenshire Magistrates’ Court on August 16, 2024.

Martin Ferrier, of Summers Villas, Milton, was stopped by police on August 15 while driving a vehicle with the registration CV70 XKW in Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest. It was discovered that Ferrier was disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence.

The court was informed that Ferrier has a history of similar offences, which was a significant factor in the decision to impose a custodial sentence.

The presiding magistrate noted that the offence was aggravated by Ferrier’s record, making it a Category A1 offence. Consequently, Ferrier was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison.

In addition to the prison sentence, Ferrier has been ordered to pay a £154 surcharge to fund victim services and £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service. Furthermore, he has been disqualified from driving for a period of 57 months and 63 days, with his driving record endorsed accordingly.

Ferrier, who was represented by solicitor Steve John from Donoghues, entered a guilty plea during the hearing. The court took this into account when determining the sentence.

Ferrier’s driving disqualification includes an extension of 63 days, reflecting the immediate custodial sentence imposed by the court. He must pay all fines by August 30, 2024, as part of the collection order made by the court.

£60m port upgrade

THE ONCE-THRIVING port town of Pembroke Dock is witnessing a significant transformation, as a £60 million redevelopment project breathes new life into the area, with the promise of up to 1,800 jobs. This ambitious project marks the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at revitalising the local economy, which has been hit hard by the closure of oil refineries and the subsequent loss of jobs.

The historic dockyard has been upgraded into what has been hailed as a “world-class centre” for wind, wave, and tidal power projects. The revitalised Pembroke Port was officially opened on Wednesday by Deputy

Prime Minister Angela Rayner, The Secretary of State of Wales Jo Stevens, and the First Minister Eluned Morgan, who all highlighted the significance of this development during what has been described as a pivotal year for marine energy in Wales.

Key features of the upgrade include a new “supersized slipway” designed to attract renewable energy firms, with the ultimate goal of creating 1,800 new jobs in the region. However, industry experts have cautioned that additional government funding will be required to fully prepare Wales’ ports for the growing opportunities in offshore energy generation.

Pembroke Dock, holds a significant place in British naval history. Established as a

Royal Navy dockyard in 1814, the town saw the construction of five Royal Yachts and numerous other vessels. During World War II, it became the world’s largest military flying boat station. Now, the site is “on the threshold of a new epoch,” according to Tom Sawyer, Chief Executive of the Milford Haven Port Authority.

Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council said : “What we are doing is playing our part in de-energising the UK energy industry in developing those new renewable technologies and deploying them.

“If we get this right there is really a chance for this to be transformational for the Pembrokeshire economy. I said in my speech just now that I am old enough to remember four refineries, and we are down to just one now. Never before have we been talking about something which could replace all that on that sort of scale. This genuinely could be transformational, like those days in the 1950’s when the oil industry came to Pembrokeshire.”

The Pembroke Dock Marine programme, supported by both UK and Welsh government funding as well as private investment, aims to transform the site into a “renewables port.” This development is part of the broader Swansea Bay City Deal, and Mr Sawyer described it as “the culmination of years of hard work to create a multi-purpose port” in Pembroke Dock.

In addition to the enlarged slipway, the redevelopment includes new workboat pontoons, office and workshop facilities, and expansive areas for companies to construct and store renewable energy devices and components. Mr Sawyer emphasised the importance of these upgrades, stating that “the size of the slipways and the access from quayside into deep water are fundamental requirements for many of the renewable technologies going out to sea.”

This work complements existing local initiatives, such as the Marine Energy

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Cutting the ribbon: Eluned Morgan, Angela Rayner and Jo Stephens get proceedings underway (Pic: Herald)

to create 1,800 jobs

Test Area (META) and the Pembrokeshire Demonstration Zone (PDZ), which provide firms with the opportunity to trial new technologies at sea. Planning permission for the project was granted in 2021, including the construction of the “supersized” slipway into the estuary, despite opposition from heritage organisations concerned about the impact on the port’s historic buildings and infrastructure. Ultimately, Pembrokeshire Council and the Welsh Government determined that the economic benefits of advancing the marine energy sector “far outweigh” those concerns.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “Today, Pembrokeshire’s long heritage of maritime excellence is leading the way for the future of the UK with the launch of this Pembroke Dock Marine programme.

“This is a major step towards us becoming a world leader in zero-carbon marine engineering and tackling climate change for a cleaner, greener, more ambitious future for us all.

“And a future where we see our bold ambitions on growth and jobs for and with every part of the UK go hand in hand with our ambitions on Net Zero and sustainable energy.”

Prif Weinidog, Eluned Morgan, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in delivering this important infrastructure project that will be transformative for the region as we grow Wales’ low carbon economy further. It is a real example of the benefits of partnership between private sector business and government at local, national and UK level.

“Supported by Welsh Government, it marks an important milestone in our journey towards realising the opportunities of floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea – and has real potential to generate high quality jobs and support sustainable economic growth. It also allows us to continue on our journey of tackling climate change together for a green and prosperous Wales.”

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens highlighted the significance of this investment: ”For the UK to become a clean energy superpower, we need modernised ports just like this in Pembroke Dock, which will be the backbone of the energy hubs of the future.

“The UK Government is proud to invest in this project. Wales is at the forefront of our ambitions for GB Energy and facilities

like Pembroke Dock Marine will contribute to our net zero goals, bringing down energy bills and creating skilled jobs for the people of Pembrokeshire.”

Tom Sawyer, CEO of the Port of Milford Haven, commented: “Today is the culmination of years of hard work to create a multi-purpose, future energy ready Port in Pembroke Dock. This vital, enabling infrastructure, made possible by public and private collaboration, will provide the base for a green cyclical economy, rich in local supply chain opportunities, to flourish in south west Wales. As industry is increasingly attracted to these new facilities and services, this hub is expected to generate over 1,800 jobs. But our ambition doesn’t stop here; we stand ready to make further investments to cater for the rapidly evolving demands of the green energy sector so that Wales reaps the benefits of this fledgling industry.“

Henry Tufnell MP, Member of Parliament for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, told The Herald: “It was great to welcome Angela Rayner, Eluned Morgan and Jo Steven’s to Pembroke Dock to open the new world-class centre for wind, wave and tidal power projects at Pembroke Port.

“We are in a new era of collaboration between Welsh and UK Government, which will directly benefit Pembrokeshire, placing us at the forefront of the Green Energy Revolution.

“Labour’s Green Prosperity Plan will ensure that we cut energy bills, deliver energy security and create good well paid jobs in the county – today is the first step on this exciting journey.”

Councillor Rob Stewart, Chairman of the Swansea Bay City Deal’s Joint Committee, said “The City Deal is making significant progress with all projects on the delivery phase. The City deal Pembroke Dock Marine project,is growing the economy and creating employment opportunities with a particular focus on the energy sector and renewable technologies. This investment in Pembroke Port will regenerate Pembroke Dock and the wider region by providing a base for the green energy economy, which is fundamental for the future of South West Wales. Coupled with the recent success of the Celtic Freeport bid, it strengthens our ambitions to create a prosperous region for businesses to thrive and residents to access well-paid jobs, both now

Convicted Neyland motorist has conviction set aside in Llanelli Court

RYAN GRANT, a 32-year-old from Riverside Avenue, Neyland, appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on 16 August 2024, seeking to overturn a previous conviction related to keeping an uninsured vehicle.

Mr. Grant had initially been convicted on 26 July 2024 for an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988. The charge was brought by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and concerned a vehicle registered in his name, identified by the registration number RO57ZWD, which was found to be uninsured on 26 March 2024 at his residence in Neyland, Milford Haven.

Tom Sawyer shows the Deputy PM, Angela Rayner, the way in

and in the future.”

As Wales positions itself to capitalise on these opportunities, Pembroke Dock stands as a symbol of the region’s resilience and its commitment to a sustainable, prosperous future.

In accordance with section 142 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980, Mr. Grant applied to the court to reopen his case. The court granted the application, setting aside both the conviction and the sentence imposed on 26 July 2024. This legal move effectively nullifies the previous ruling and allows Mr. Grant to contest the charges anew. Following the reopening of the case, Mr. Grant pleaded not guilty to the original charge. The court has now scheduled a new trial date for 23 August 2024, where the matter will be fully reconsidered.

This development gives Mr. Grant the opportunity to present his defence and potentially clear his name in the upcoming proceedings.

Woman denies throwing pair of handcuffs at police officer

A 51-YEAR-OLD woman has denied throwing a pair of handcuffs directly towards the head of an onduty police officer.

Officers were called to the home of Sally Nolan, of Three Meadows, Haverfordwest, on January 22, where, according to the Crown Prosecution, matters escalated. Nolan was placed in handcuffs and put inside the cage of a police van, however the Crown alleges that the defendant damaged the handcuffs to the point where they were unserviceable. As she was being placed inside the police van, she threw the handcuffs towards the head of one of the officers.

This week Nolan appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates where she denied assaulting an emergency worker and of causing criminal damage to the handcuffs.

Nolan elected to be tried at Swansea Crown Court where matters will proceed on September 20. Nolan was released on unconditional bail.

From the air: Port of Pembroke (Pic: MHPA)

Predator sentenced for attempted child exploitation

A 66-YEAR-OLD man from Herbrandston has been sentenced to 27 months in prison after he was caught attempting to groom what he believed was a 12-year-old girl online.

Paul Chesher, who had no prior convictions, was apprehended after engaging in explicit conversations with an undercover police officer posing as a schoolgirl named ‘Ellie’ on the social media platform Kik. The exchanges began on 31 August 2021, when Chesher initiated contact with ‘Ellie’ and soon began making inappropriate requests. Prosecutor Regan Walters revealed that Chesher repeatedly asked the decoy to send him explicit images, instructing her to “sneak to the bathroom” while at school and photograph herself. Chesher also sent images of his own

face and admitted to the decoy that he was 56 years old.

Despite recognising the illegal nature of his actions—regularly commenting that ‘Ellie’ was “too young” and acknowledging that he “could go to jail”—Chesher continued his predatory behaviour. He requested details about her underwear, enquired about her sexual experiences, and even directed the decoy to perform explicit acts and film them.

Police tracked Chesher down using his email and IP address, leading to his arrest at his home on 22 October 2021. After a delay in bringing the case to court, partly due to the time taken to analyse electronic devices and secure data from the United States-based Kik platform, Chesher pleaded guilty to charges of attempted sexual communication with a child and attempting to cause a child to engage in sexual activity.

In mitigation, Chesher’s defence highlighted his medical issues and the loneliness he experienced at the time of the offences. However, Judge Geraint Walters, presiding over the case, rejected these excuses, stating that Chesher’s actions were persistent and deliberate. “This wasn’t a momentary lapse in judgement, it was a persistent one,” the judge said. “You knew full well what the consequences of this were to be.”

In addition to his prison sentence, Chesher must register as a sex offender for 10 years and is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the same period.

Detective Constable Paul Kelly of Dyfed Powys Police praised the successful outcome of the case,

stating: “This sentence and the investigation itself demonstrated excellent collaborative working between police agencies. It sends a clear message to perpetrators that crime against children is abhorrent, and that we as police will find the perpetrators and seek justice for the children involved.”

Detective Constable Isaac Gott of the Tarian Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) echoed these sentiments, adding: “Our ROCU is dedicated to identifying individuals who have a sexual interest in children, and we will relentlessly pursue them.” Chesher’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that children face online and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to protect them from harm.

Two paths to the future: Giant and slow or nippy and tiny. Place your bets.

WEDNEsDAY was the official opening of the Pembroke Dock Marine Project. It was graced by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan and Secretary of State for Wales, Jo stevens as well as new MP Henry Tufnell. The Pembrokeshire project received £60m funding from Swansea Bay City Deal, which has £1.3bn to spend. The deal was announced in 2017. Funds for Pembrokeshire were approved in 2020 and signed off in 2022. The expected date for marine renewables (floating wind turbines as first phase) to be operational is 2035.

That’s the giant slow path. At the opposite extreme:

Since April this year Grwp Resilience has bought four electric vehicles plus powered trailor for Pembrokeshire enterprises to trial. The average cost was £4800 each. Four months later they have been trialled by 12 businesses carrying produce from 17 producers. They are now in full time use with five enterprises. They are powered either in part or 100% by the users’ renewables.

The vans, bike, powered trailor and car deliver bread, milk, youth work, surplus food for free meals, candles, motor parts, organic vegetables (3 businesses) and natural lotions.

Why do this? Our research flagged that transport is a major cost and challenge in the rural socio economy. It is a leading barrier to escaping the iron grip of fossil fuels and reaching net zero.

These vehicles are cheap partly because they are short range. They work for journeys and deliveries of around 60 miles per day so they support a hyper local economy in which people know from whom and where their produce comes.

This relationship economy

Vicky Moller vickymoller@gmail.com

has its very own self regulating feedback mechanism if a producer behaves badly, or well, towards customers or nature. It’s a regulatory system that costs government nothing. Which would you invest in – the giant marine renewables or equipment for local self reliance using renewables? Which if you were a socialist, an environmentalist or a capitalist?

It would be interesting to some good research for answers to these questions, taking into account the geopolitical turbulence ahead.

surplus food collected for free meals in Pembroke

youth work - roving

Electric bike delivering st. Davids

Ribbon cutting on marine energy project

veg load in Nevern

Holidaymaker banned from driving for being twice over the limit

A HOLIDAYMAKER who was asked to leave his bed and breakfast accommodation as a result of his drunken behaviour made the foolish mistake of getting behind the wheel of his car and driving off.

As a result, Christopher Phillips this week appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged with driving when he was over twice the legal drink-drive limit.

Police were alerted of his drunken driving after the landlady of a bed and breakfast establishment in Tenby asked him to leave,

“It was around 1.30am on August 3 when police received a call from a person reporting that the defendant had driven off despite being extremely intoxicated,” Crown Prosecution Abigail Jackson told the magistrates this week.

“He had been asked to leave the premises as a result of his intoxication and he drove of.”

Officers discovered his Hyundai on the A478 at Wooden and Phillips, 36, was seated behind the steering wheel while a female was sitting in the passenger seat.

“He was heavily under the influence with slurred speech and was unsteady on his feet,” said Ms Jackson.

A roadside breath test proved positive and subsequent breath tests at the police station showed he had 83 mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35.

Phillips was represented in court by Mr Michael Kelleher.

Magistrates decline jurisdiction in child abuse photos case

A MONKTON man is to appear before a judge at swansea Crown Court charged with making over 130 indecent photographs or pseudophotographs of children.

Christopher James, 33, is accused of making 59 of the most extreme Category A images, 40 category B images and 19 category C images.

He is further charged with distributing 12 category A images of children, 28 category B images and possessing an extreme pornographic image of a person performing an obscene sexual act with a dog.

The charges are alleged to have taken place between November 2018 and February 2022.

James, who is currently of no fixed abode, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday. He entered no pleas to the charges.

Magistrates declined jurisdiction and the matter was adjourned to September 30 when proceedings will commence at Swansea Crown Court.

James was released on unconditional bail.

Man fined for breaching Community Protection Notice

A MILFORD HAVEN resident, Gavin James, aged 44, has been found guilty at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for failing to comply with a community protection notice issued by Pembrokeshire County Council.

James, who resides at 18 Vicary Crescent, Milford Haven, had been served with the notice on 25th April 2024, requiring him to remove accumulated refuse and household waste from his property. However, he failed to adhere to the terms of the notice, leading to legal action.

The court, sitting at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, found the case against James proved in his absence on 25th July 2024. As a result, he has been issued a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) aimed at preventing further disturbances. The CBO mandates that Mr. James must not cause or allow any activity likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to the local community due to the waste accumulation at his property.

Additionally, James has been fined £300 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £120. He is also liable for legal costs amounting to £2,759.95, bringing the total financial penalty to £3,179.95.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Local authorities have stressed the importance of complying with community protection notices to maintain the safety and well-being of residents.

The order against James will remain in effect until further notice, with designated officers overseeing compliance.

This case follows a previous incident involving James, where he faced similar accusations related to the neglect of his property. Despite repeated warnings and legal interventions, it appears that the issues have persisted, causing significant concern among his neighbours.

Sentenced for racially aggravated harassment and assault

A 38-YEAR-OLD Haverfordwest man, Shaun Tucker, of Scotchwell View, has been sentenced at Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire Magistrates’ Court after being convicted of a series of offences that took place on 2nd December 2023.

The court heard that Tucker had been involved in several incidents at Morrison’s Supermarket and its adjoining car park in Haverfordwest. The offences included racially aggravated harassment, assault, threatening behaviour, and theft.

On the date in question, Tucker was found to have used threatening and abusive language within the vicinity of Morrison’s filling station. The language was deemed to be racially aggravated under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. Tucker pleaded guilty to the charge and was subsequently fined £240. He was also ordered to pay £100 in compensation to the victim, with a collection order made to deduct the fine from his benefits.

In addition to the racially aggravated offence, Tucker was also convicted of assaulting Gary LoganScurlock by beating him. The incident took place inside the Morrison’s supermarket. For this offence, Tucker was sentenced to a community order with a Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR) of up to 15 days. The court also ordered him to pay £50 in compensation to the victim, a £114 surcharge to fund victim services, and £85 in prosecution costs.

In a separate incident on the same day, Tucker used threatening and abusive language towards Shaun Bird in the supermarket car park, with the intent to cause fear of immediate violence. This offence also resulted in a community order with the same RAR conditions, and Tucker was ordered to pay an additional £50 in compensation.

Tucker was also convicted of stealing food items valued at £4 from the Morrison’s store on Bridge Meadow Lane. For this offence, the court imposed another community order with the RAR condition. He was required to pay £4 in compensation for the stolen items.

The court reopened Tucker’s case, originally sentenced on 1st July 2024, under Section 142 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980, allowing for the revision of his penalties. His guilty pleas were taken into account during sentencing.

In total, Tucker was ordered to pay £643, including fines, compensation, and costs. He has been given until 17th September 2024 to make full payment.

This case highlights the serious nature of racially aggravated offences and the consequences of aggressive and violent behaviour in public spaces.

Deputy Prime Minister visits Haverfordwest numeracy project

ADULTs participating in an innovative learning course in Haverfordwest had a visit on Wednesday (Aug 21) from Angela Rayner MP, the Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government.

PATH (Pembrokeshire Action for the Homeless) have been running the Numeracy Project this year following a successful application to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The Numeracy Project is aimed at adults aged 19+ who want to build confidence with numbers, improve employability, gain a qualification or simply manage their finances better to support their daily living. Many of these issues are leading causes of homelessness within Pembrokeshire.

The homelessness charity also provides mental health counselling and support workers at the sessions so that the learners get a complete wraparound service. Mrs Rayner called this an “incredible extra that people get” in addition to improving their maths skills.

The Deputy Prime Minister, who herself left education with no formal qualifications, spent a lot of time talking with the learners about how the project has not only improved their numeracy

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

skills, but also benefited their mental health, social anxiety and loneliness.

“It’s not just the numeracy, but the social interaction, the confidence… you can see firsthand the incredible work that’s going on here,” she said in a discussion with PATH Managing Director, Michael Hooper.

“You can also see some of the structural problems here that we see across the whole of the UK, for example social housing.”

Mrs Rayner said that the housing situation has got “chronically worse” since PATH started in 1979 and this is a topic she was “keen to address” with the new Labour Government now in place.

One learner, Salastina Victor, spoke to Mrs Rayner about her challenges prior to joining the Numeracy Project and how she now runs her own successful business.

“To see the lady who went from domestic violence and not having numeracy skills, to running her own business and having the confidence that you can see there… it’s incredible that you can do that. Thank you you for all

the work you do together,” Mrs Rayner said to the PATH team in a discussion after meeting the learners.

In total the project has received £550,000 but funding now runs out at the end of the year. With over 75 learners how signed up the project, with a total of 100 expected to be onboard by the end of the year, gaining extra

funding is vital for the project to be able to continue.

PATH is currently going through a consultation process as it applies for future funding and require as much feedback as possible. You can fill in their survey here for a chance to win a £50 Tesco voucher and help shape the future of this vital service.

Haverfordwest paedophile jailed for long-term abuse of young girl

A 50-YEAR-OLD man, Richard Lewis, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for sexually abusing a young girl over several years, beginning when she was just four years old. The abuse took place between 2004 and 2009 in Haverfordwest.

Lewis, formerly of Haverfordwest and now of Priory Street, Carmarthen, was found guilty of five counts of sexual assault by penetration following a trial. He was acquitted of one additional charge. The victim, who endured the abuse from ages four to eight, bravely came forward after receiving sex education in her teens, though initially hesitant to report the crimes.

The court heard harrowing details of the abuse, which occurred in various locations, including a field and in Lewis’s vehicle. The victim described feeling permanently haunted by the abuse, which has had a profound and lasting impact on her life.

Despite Lewis’s previous standing in the community and his role as a father, Judge Paul Thomas KC condemned his calculated actions, noting that the abuse was premeditated and systematic. In addition to the prison sentence, Lewis was given a one-year extended licence period and will remain on the sex offenders register for life. A 15-year restraining order was also granted to protect the victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons..

Milford man in court accused of abandoning two children

A MILFORD HAVEN man has appeared before magistrates charged with assaulting, ill treating, neglecting or abandoning two children under the age of 16.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is alleged to have committed the offences on New Year’s Eve, 2023.

The Crown alleges that police officers discovered the man arguing with neighbours outside his property when he was clearly intoxicated. He is alleged to have referred to the children using what the Crown described as ‘derogatory names’.

The man denies both charges.

This week Haverfordwest magistrates retained jurisdiction in the matter and adjourned the case for the trial. The man was released on conditional bail, the conditions being that he has no unsupervised contact with any child under the age of 18; he engages fully with social services and he has no contact with prosecution witnesses.

GCSE results success shine

PEMBROKESHIRE schools have seen a flurry of impressive GCsE results this year, as students from several institutions across the county have overcome numerous challenges to achieve remarkable academic success. Despite the turbulent years marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted their early secondary education, pupils have demonstrated resilience, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to their studies, resulting in outstanding achievements that have filled schools and communities with pride.

YsGOL HARRI TUDUR

At Ysgol Harri Tudur, Headteacher Mrs. Fiona Kite expressed her pride in the Year 11 pupils, who not only met but exceeded expectations in their GCSE and BTEC results. She highlighted the resilience and determination displayed by the students, which has been rightly reflected in their results. Mrs. Kite extended her thanks to the teaching staff, whose dedication played a crucial role in these achievements, and to the parents for their unwavering support. Notably, the school celebrated several individual successes that stand as a testament to the hard work of both students and staff. These achievements set a strong foundation for the students’ next steps, whether they choose to continue their education in the sixth form, pursue apprenticeships, or enter the workforce. The school remains committed to supporting each student’s journey beyond GCSEs and wishes them continued success.

HAVERFORDWEsT HIGH VC sCHOOL

Haverfordwest High VC School also reported excellent outcomes, with Headteacher Mrs. J. Harries expressing immense pride in her pupils’ efforts. The school’s focus on preparation and the pupils’ conduct during examinations were key factors in the excellent results achieved. Mrs. Harries highlighted the significant role played by the teaching staff, whose endless work ensured students were well-prepared.

Among the top achievers were Ceri Jenkins, who secured 11 A* grades and a Distinction in Additional Maths, and Emily Gosling, who matched this feat and added a Merit in Additional Maths. Another standout performer, Nireeksha Attawar, earned 11 A* grades, a Distinction in Additional Maths, and a pass in Equality & Diversity.

The school is looking forward to welcoming many of these students back into their growing sixth form, while also preparing those who are moving on to other educational institutions or employment. The influx of applications for the sixth form from students at other schools is a testament to the school’s strong reputation and welcoming environment.

YsGOL GREENHILL

Over at Ysgol Greenhill, Headteacher David Haynes shared his delight over the GCSE results, congratulating all pupils on their well-deserved successes. He acknowledged the disruptions faced by

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

the students during the early years of their secondary education but praised their work ethic and commitment, which led to such positive results.

The school celebrated several notable achievements, including Ella Bromby, who achieved an astonishing twelve A* grades and one A, and Evie Swales, who garnered ten A* grades and two A’s. Other high achievers included Sukie Blackwell with eight A* and three A’s, Bella Evans with five A* and seven A’s, and Louie TreadawayWilliams, who earned seven A* and four A’s. These results reflect the hard work of both the pupils and the teaching staff, whose support and guidance were instrumental in these successes.

Ysgol Greenhill is excited to welcome a majority of these students back to continue their studies in the sixth form, while also wishing those moving on to other paths the best of luck in their future endeavours.

YsGOL BRO PREsELI

Ysgol Bro Preseli joined the countywide celebration, extending congratulations to its Year 10 and 11 pupils for their outstanding GCSE results. The school praised the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the students, acknowledging the critical role played by the teaching staff in guiding them to such success. The support from parents and guardians was also recognised as an essential factor in helping students reach this important milestone.

The school looks forward to welcoming many of its pupils back for post-16 studies, while also preparing to receive new students transferring from neighbouring schools. For those who have chosen different paths, Ysgol Bro Preseli expressed confidence in the strong foundations laid at the school, which will support their future endeavours. The school community takes great pride in the achievements of its pupils, celebrating their success as a collective triumph.

YsGOL BRO GWAUN

Headteacher Paul Edwards is delighted with the school’s outcomes.

“On behalf of the staff and governors of Ysgol Bro Gwaun, I would like to congratulate all pupils who are receiving their results today. We are very proud of their hard work and dedication, and of the outstanding results which they have achieved.”

He continued: “I would like to pay tribute to the determination and perseverance shown by our pupils and also to thank the teaching and support staff for their dedication in ensuring all learners achieve their best. As a school we are particularly proud of the fact that all learners received recognised qualifications that will enable them to follow their chosen career paths, be that in a sixth form, the college or work based training.”

Year 11 student Amy Hall (9A* and 2A) paid tribute to the school for the support both she and her year group received, saying: “ We have faced quite a few challenges to get to this point and we would not have been able to achieve so well if it wasn’t for the support we were given by the school in the lead up to the exams. The staff have been brilliant in preparing us and

giving us the confidence to give our best; we cannot thank them enough.”

The staff and governors pass on their best wishes to all of year 11 as they take the next exciting steps on their life journey.

COUNTY-WIDE ACHIEVEMENTs ACKNOWLEDGED

Pembrokeshire County Council has also extended its congratulations to all learners who received their GCSE results this year. The Council highlighted the remarkable resilience, dedication, and academic achievement of students across the county, despite the challenges of recent years. Cllr Guy Woodham, Cabinet

Boncath resident threatened to set fire to neighbour’s car

A NEIGHBOURs’ dispute has resulted in a court appearance after a Boncath resident threatened to set fire to his neighbour’s car.

When police arrived at Dylan Degay’s property at Berllan Aur, Boncath, on June 28, they discovered him standing outside surrounded by household items which he’d placed on the front lawn.

CCTV footage that was shown to Haverfordwst magistrates court this week showed Degas threatening to set fire to property belonging to his neighbour.

“I don’t need to deal with nosy neighbours,” he was heard shouting.

“[The police] will have a reason to turn up when I set fire to all their stuff. I’ll set fire to their car, and I hope that every single one of you heard that.”

But Degay’s solicitor, Michael Kelleher, said the threats were made following a period of antagonism between the defendant and his neighbour.

“He moved to Boncath to get away from previous bad influences, but the property he moved into was next door to a person who was hoping that a relative of hers could have it,” he said.

“That was the catalyst. Rumours began to spread about his previous convictions and on this occasion he lost his cool, he became irate, and said things that he didn’t mean and were inappropriate.”

Mr Kelleher said that following the offence, Degay, who pleaded guilty to a charge of threatening to damage or destroy property, had visited his neighbour to apologise for his outburst.

Magistrates were asked to consider a comprehensive probation report before deciding on Degay’s sentence. However Mr Kellehr said the report wasn’t ‘a fair reflection’ on his client.

Member for Education and the Welsh Language, expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments, noting that their hard work and determination have paid off. He also praised the support provided by school staff and families, which has been instrumental in the learners’ success.

The Council is committed to supporting students in their next steps, whether they choose further education, apprenticeships, or enter the workforce. Various resources and programmes are available to help learners explore their interests and achieve their career goals, ensuring that they have the support needed to continue thriving beyond their GCSEs.

Probation officer Julie Norman told magistrates that Degay had declined to take part in programmes and treatment which had been offered to him by the probation service, however Mr Kelleher explained that this was because Degay finds it difficult to integrate in group situations.

“He doesn’t want to be in a position where he fails,” he said.

“He’d prefer one-to-one treatment.”

Mr Kelleher submitted a character reference to magistrates in which another neighbour described Degay as bdeing a helpful and trustworthy person.

After considering the facts, magistrates sentenced Degay to six months in custody suspended for two years. He was also ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Pembroke Dock police station to move

DYFED-POWYs POLICE have said this week they are progressing with plans to relocate their Pembroke Dock base from Water street to a new site on Argyle street.

This, they say, is part of ongoing efforts to modernise policing infrastructure in Pembrokeshire.

The need to move, formally reported to the Police and Crime Panel in May 2024, is expected to be finalised in the coming months, following negotiations with the new landlord, Pembrokeshire County Council.

Once the relocation is complete, the existing Water Street station will be placed on the open market. The current police station is seen as too large and costly, and contains a custody suite that is no longer used – as all arrested individuals are now booked in to the more modern Haverfordwest police station.

The police said in a statement released today: “The Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed-Powys can confirm that Dyfed-Powys Police are progressing negotiations with Pembrokeshire County Council to formalise moving its current policing base in Walter Street Pembroke Dock to new premises in Argyle Street.

“This decision was formally reported to the Police and Crime Panel at their meeting in May 2024 and we expect the terms of this purchase to be finalised

Sinclair editor@herald.email

over the next few months.

“If this move is concluded successfully, then it will progress with the sale of the current police station in Water Street, Pembroke Dock with the property then being advertised for sale on the open market.”

This planned relocation is the latest in a series of changes to police stations

across Pembrokeshire. Fairly recently, Milford Haven’s police station was moved from Charles Street to Cedar Court, a decision aimed at “improving efficiency and ensuring the police presence remains central to the community”. Similarly, the Saundersfoot police station has already closed, with services restructured to maintain effective policing in the area.

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed-Powys has emphasised to The Herald that these moves are part of a

broader strategy to optimise resources and enhance the effectiveness of local policing. The Commissioner assured residents that the level of service will remain unchanged, with local policing tailored to meet the needs of the community, despite these structural changes.

These developments reflect a wider trend within Dyfed-Powys Police to adapt to modern demands while ensuring that the community’s needs are met efficiently and effectively.

Tom

The former council customers service centre is slated to become new police station in Pembroke Dock (Pic: Martin Cavaney)

Sentenced to four years for drug dealing

A PEMBROKE DOCK man with an extensive criminal record has been sentenced to four years in prison after being caught dealing drugs to support his own addiction. Christopher Brockway, 44, appeared at swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Aug 22) where he was handed his sentence following a last-minute change of plea from not guilty to guilty.

The court heard that Brockway was apprehended by police in Haverfordwest on Sunday, February 11, after stealing items worth £500. At approximately 1:30pm, officers stopped a white Vauxhall being driven by Brockway. It was discovered that Brockway was uninsured and had been driving without a valid licence, which had been revoked since 2022. During a search of the vehicle, officers found a blue plastic bag containing 7.84 grams of a white powder, which Brockway claimed was bicarbonate of soda. He was subsequently arrested and taken into custody.

Later that evening, at 5:40pm, police attended Brockway’s home in Pembroke Dock, where they encountered what was described as one of the worst living conditions an officer had seen in 26 years of service. The property was littered with syringes, burnt tin foil, and food debris. A further search uncovered 18.5 grams of heroin, 17 grams of cannabis, silver weighing scales, and £2,260 in cash.

In court, Brockway admitted to purchasing the heroin the day before his arrest, insisting it was for personal use. He claimed the £2,260 found in his home was savings for his daughter’s birthday, and that

the scales were used to ensure he wasn’t being overcharged when buying drugs. It was also revealed that Brockway had 71 previous convictions, many related to his 20year struggle with drug addiction. Initially, Brockway had pleaded not guilty to charges of possessing diamorphine with intent to supply and possessing criminal property. However, on the day his trial was set to begin, he changed his plea to guilty for the charge of possession with intent to supply. The prosecution accepted this plea, and the charge of possessing criminal property was dropped.

His Honour Judge Geraint Walters, in passing sentence, acknowledged Brockway’s long-standing battle with addiction but stressed the seriousness of his offences. Brockway was sentenced to four years in prison. The court heard that Brockway hopes to use his time in custody to overcome his addiction and turn his life around. Brockway’s case highlights the ongoing issues of drug addiction and related criminal activity in the region, with the judge expressing hope that this sentence would serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar offences.

Appeal for witnesses after serious kayak and motorboat collision

Monkton man to appear in court for child abuse and animal images

A 33-YEAR-OLD man from Monkton, Pembroke will appear before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Aug 20), to face a series of charges related to the creation, distribution, and possession of indecent images of children, as well as possession of extreme pornographic material involving an animal.

Christopher James, of Gwilliam Court, Monkton, Pembroke, was charged with six offences under the Protection of Children Act 1978 and the Criminal Justice Act 2008.

The offences span a period from November 2018 to February 2022 and include the alleged making, distributing, and possessing indecent photographs or pseudophotographs of children.

During the first hearing, it will be put to the court that between 12th November 2021 and 25th February 2022, James created 59 category A indecent images of children, the most severe category. The charges also state that James allegedly produced 40 category B images and 19 category C images within the same period. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of six months’ imprisonment and an unlimited fine.

James is further accused of distributing 12 category A and 28 category B indecent images between 14th August 2021 and 28th October 2021. Distribution of such material is considered a grave offence, and the law provides for a similar maximum penalty of six months’ imprisonment and an unlimited fine.

MARINE authorities are urging witnesses to come forward after a significant collision between a kayak and a motorboat on the Cleddau River in Milford Haven.

The incident occurred on August 11 at approximately 3 pm near Rudders Boatyard on the Milford Haven Waterway. The kayaker involved in the collision was promptly attended to by the Welsh Ambulance Service and, fortunately, did not sustain life-threatening injuries. Despite this, the incident had the potential for far more serious outcomes.

Emergency services responded swiftly, with Dale Coastguard Rescue, Milford Haven Port Authority Harbour Patrol, and Dyfed-Powys Police all present at the scene.

Paul Atkins, from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) Regulatory Compliance Investigations Team, emphasized the gravity of the situation: “This was an incident with potentially serious consequences, so it’s crucial that we establish what exactly happened. We are appealing to anyone

In addition to the charges related to indecent images of children, James faces another serious charge. On 24th February 2022, James was said to be found to be in possession of an extreme pornographic image, which depicted a person performing an explicit act with a dog. This charge, considered particularly severe, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months’ imprisonment and an unlimited fine.

who witnessed the collision, possesses video footage or photographs, or has any information that could assist in our investigation to come forward.”

The investigation is being led by the MCA, with support from Dyfed-Powys Police and Milford Haven Port Authority. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the MCA’s Regulatory Compliance Investigations Team by calling 020 3817 2490 or emailing MCA.investigations@mcga. gov.uk.

Congratulations to Wales’s GCSE students

GCsE grades in Wales fell back this year.

The change came as Qualifications Wales ended the grade support for students it used during the Covid pandemic.

Of more concern is that GCSE results for A* to C grades have not recovered to their pre-pandemic level, whereas they have for Welsh A-levels.

The Welsh Conservative Shadow Education Minister, Tom Giffard MS, congratulated learners and teachers but added: “It is worrying that unlike the A-Level results last week, GCSE results are down compared to pre-pandemic figures. The Welsh Government must come forward with a plan to address this drop.”

The drop is, however, marginal.

There were 62.2% grades at A* to C, compared to 62.8% in 2019 – and this compares to 64.9% last year.

The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle, congratulated learners who received their GCSE, Welsh Baccalaureate and Vocational Qualification results on Thursday (Aug 22).

Speaking at Pencoed Comprehensive School, Bridgend, Ms Neagle said: “I would like to offer my congratulations to everyone who is receiving their results today. You will have no doubt been impacted by the pandemic. However, receiving your results today is a big milestone. You should all be very proud of the hard work, dedication, and resilience you have shown.

“This year is our final step back towards pre-pandemic exam arrangements, and today’s results are where we expected them to be, with outcomes similar to 2019.

“I would also like to thank our teachers and education workforce, who have worked incredibly hard to support our learners to succeed.

“I hope you got the grades you wanted, but remember that you have many different choices for your next step in learning or employment.

“Get in touch with Careers Wales, your school or local college for support.

“Pob lwc, and best wishes for the future!”

NOT ONLY ABOUT sTAYING IN

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

EDUCATION

Across Wales, the percentage of pupils leaving Year 11 and entering the labour market was 9.0%, the highest since 2008.

The greatest proportion of the cohort, 86.7%, continued in full-time education (FTE); however, this is the lowest percentage since 2013, showing a bigger move to alternate paths.

A higher proportion of females (3.2 percentage points more than males) chose to remain in school.

Nikki Lawrence, Chief Executive of Careers Wales: “Congratulations to all those who have received their GCSE results today.

“Whether you got the results you were hoping for or not, it’s important to remember that there are lots of exciting options available for you.

“As always, we’re here to help anyone who might need support after getting their results this summer.

“We can offer expert advice and guidance to help young people access routes they might not have previously considered to achieve their goals.

“Young people have a lot on their minds, especially at this time of year, and we know that some people can become overwhelmed with making choices about their future careers or might not know the options available to them.

“There is the right path out there for everyone, and our Working Wales careers advisers are here to help them take the first steps towards finding that.”

HEADS’ PR DOESN’T PASS

Amid the congratulations for learners, NAHT Cymru, which represents Wales’s headteachers, inadvertently issued a press comment that referred to English schools and qualifications.

The press release, cut and pasted from an identical version issued by NAHT in England, refers to a qualification (the English Baccalaureate) that Welsh students don’t study.

More embarrassingly, the press release’s content would get a failing

grade for its understanding of the Welsh education system.

The press release criticises a “lack of support” from “the previous government” and the poor condition of school buildings.

Education has been devolved to Cardiff Bay for twenty-five years, and responsibility for building and maintaining schools is also under Welsh control. In fact, while some parts of the Welsh education estate are in relatively poor condition, the Welsh Government has part-funded a host of new school buildings across Wales in partnership with Welsh local authorities.

The NAHT PR doesn’t even get a sympathy Grade E for effort.

CARE NEEDED WITH COMPARIsONs

The response from the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) Cymru was more on point.

Eithne Hughes, Director of (ASCL) Cymru, said: “Congratulations to all students receiving their results today. Everyone should be proud of what they have achieved.

“These results are the culmination of a great deal of hard work, and many will now continue to study across a range of settings. We also pay tribute to the teachers and leaders who have tirelessly supported students through the examination process.

“Nationally, outcomes are below those from 2023. This is due to the return to pre-pandemic grading standards, and we would advise against comparisons with previous years.

“This cohort has shown exceptional resilience during their education, having at times faced serious disruption. We wish them every success for the future.

“Looking further ahead, we need to do much more to support our schools and colleges and the teachers and leaders carrying out such vital work. Funding and staff shortages, alongside growing issues such as behaviour and attendance, have made circumstances hugely difficult. This needs to be addressed through greater government investment as a matter of urgency.”

Sarah Austin, Director of www. britishbusinessexcellenceawards.co.uk, commented: “It’s essential to recognise

that grades are not the sole determinant of success. While they can open doors, they don’t define future achievements.

“Many successful individuals have thrived despite not having top grades. True success often stems from qualities like dedication, resilience and perseverance, traits that go beyond academic performance.

“Grades offer a snapshot of performance at a particular time but don’t capture a person’s full potential or worth. It’s the combination of hard work, adaptability, and personal attributes that truly shapes an individual’s future.”

PANDEMIC AFTER-EFFECTS CONTINUE TO AFFECT sCHOOLs

Nicola Fitzpatrick, Interim Wales Secretary for the National Education Union Cymru, said: “Congratulations to all students receiving their GCSE, Welsh Baccalaureate and other Level 2 qualification results today. Their hard work and efforts, supported by their parents, carers and educators, should be thoroughly commended.

“The system in Wales needs to be more responsive to the impact of Covid. It acts as if the pandemic has had no after-effects. In fact, the damage it has done to students’ learning and wellbeing is enduring.

“It is really unhelpful to compare results from one year to the next. Different methods of assessment have been used, different levels of pandemic disruption have been experienced, and Qualifications Wales has implemented different approaches to grading from one year to the next.

“For young people, it is really important to know that today isn’t the rest of your life. If you didn’t get the results you want, there are plenty of options and choices.

“As Wales reforms the GCSE qualifications to fit the curriculum and moves towards a made-in-Wales vocational offer (VCSEs), we need to ensure that these qualifications use a range of assessment methods that capture what young people can do.

“We also need to ensure that we don’t increase the workload of teachers, but trust their judgement, without adding too much unnecessary bureaucracy.”

Pembrokeshire motorists warned of fake parking QR code scam

PEMBROKESHIRE’S motorists are being warned to stay vigilant after reports surfaced of a new scam involving fake QR codes on parking signs. The scam, which has been dubbed “quishing,” has been reported across the UK, with Pembrokeshire being among the areas affected.

This month, RAC issued a nationwide alert urging drivers not to use QR codes to pay for parking, following a rise in incidents where fraudulent codes lead to websites that steal personal data and bank details. Councils, including Pembrokeshire County Council, have confirmed that they do not use QR codes for parking payments and have encouraged residents to be cautious.

The warning comes after Yori Evans, a 19-year-old local resident, fell victim to the scam at a car park outside Pembrokeshire County Council’s offices in Haverfordwest. Speaking to Sky News, Mr Evans recounted his experience: “I scanned the QR code, entered my details and paid, but it didn’t work correctly, so I downloaded the app and paid there instead.”

However, the next morning, Mr Evans discovered that £60 had been withdrawn from his account by a fraudulent website. “I was confused when the money left my account,” he

said. “I cancelled my card immediately, and the day after, they tried to take another £57.99, but luckily the card had been cancelled.”

Pembrokeshire County Council has since reiterated that it does not use QR codes for payment in its car parks. A spokesperson for the council advised: “We encourage anyone who finds a QR code in our car parks to report it to us immediately. Customers should use the PayByPhone app, which is the official method for paying in our car parks.”

The scam has also been reported in other parts of the UK, including Northumberland and Barking and Dagenham in east London. It has even been seen at some electric vehicle charging stations.

Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, highlighted the dangers of this new type of scam: “The increasing popularity and ease of using QR codes appears to have made drivers more vulnerable to malicious scammers. For some, this sadly means a Quick Response code could, in fact, be a ‘quick route’ to losing money.”

Williams also warned that motorists could face additional fines if they are unaware that they haven’t paid for parking after being scammed: “As if this quishing scam isn’t nasty enough, it can also lead to drivers being caught out

twice if they don’t realise they haven’t paid for parking and end up getting a hefty fine from the council.”

To avoid falling victim to such scams, motorists are advised to check that QR codes have not been stuck over official information and to ensure that the URL they are directed to is legitimate, carrying the padlock symbol in the browser. The RAC continues to advocate for the availability of traditional

payment methods, as many drivers still prefer to pay with cash or card rather than relying on mobile apps.

Local authorities and the RAC are urging the public to remain cautious and to report any suspicious QR codes found in car parks. As the move towards digital payments accelerates, the importance of educating oneself about potential scams has never been greater.

Improving the health of the nation must be part of First Minister’s ‘listening exercise’

THE NEW First Minister of Wales must prioritise improving the future health of the population, and how we transform services to meet changing needs, as part of her ‘listening exercise’ with the public to determine the Welsh Government’s priorities for the next 18 months – that is the view of Welsh NHs Confederation.

Last September saw 32 Welsh organisations from a range of sectors come together to call for a crossgovernment, cross-sector public conversation on the future of health and care services and the population’s health and wellbeing.

As a nation, Wales faces a significant number of population health challenges

that reduce life expectancy and widen inequalities. Improving population health and wellbeing requires an integrated approach across all public services and all sectors. Collectively we need to create the economic, social and natural environment in Wales to support good health and wellbeing throughout the life-course. We need to move towards adequately and sustainably funded public services, taking care and prevention to people and their communities and empowering and enabling people to take charge of their own health and wider wellbeing. This must be based on an ambitious and honest partnership between the government, all sectors and the public.

MIKE EDWARDS

As LUCK would have it, the rain and miserable weather waited until the end of the Pembrokeshire County Show before sloping off towards its natural home over the Brecon Beacons.

And, as luck would have it, there was no cricket for me last weekend.

That meant it was time to mow the lawn. Again.

How many times does it take before grass gets the message to stop growing?

I’ve never been a fan of decking and patio slabs. Still, when you’re pushing a lawnmower and sweating in the sort of humidity that would make an anaconda think twice about slithering outside, you begin to see their attractions.

Mind you, those Japanese gravel gardens have their upsides. As I understand them, you tip a load of rubble, spread it around about, plant a couple of acers, throw in the statue of Buddha, plonk in a bamboo or two and, voila, you are the epitome of cool, modern living.

Or maybe not.

Back in the 1990s, my beloved tried to reorganise our house based on feng shui principles. It’s all very well aligning your possessions to encourage the flow of positive mystic forces throughout the home, but why the bog roll had to be in the airing cupboard never ceased baffling me. It did nothing for my positive flow, I can tell you.

Unless we move away from siloes and short-termism and move towards a collaborative, long-term planning approach, demand on health and care services will continue to grow unsustainably. It is not an option to continue on the current trajectory.

Director of the Welsh NHS Confederation, Darren Hughes, said: “We know the number one issue that will come out of any conversations with the public on health or the NHS will be waiting times and access to services. NHS leaders know there is much more to be done to improve health and care services; something they strive to do every day. However, health doesn’t hold all the levers to tackle health inequalities and keep people well – access to NHS services accounts for less than 20 per cent of a population’s health, with the rest shaped by socio-economic factors.

“The wider determinants of health – fair work, housing, transport, access to green spaces, leisure and the arts – are all essential to our health. In such economically challenging times, budgets impacting the wider determinants of health become more squeezed. However, unless we reverse these spending cuts, this will lead to greater costs and unmet need in the long-term.

“We are therefore calling for the First Minister’s listening exercise to include a conversation on what every individual, organisation, sector and government department can do to improve our chances of living healthier lives. All sectors and government departments must work together to co-produce the transformation of health and care services and engage with the public as part of this. It’s simply not an option to stay as we are, we need to think about the future now.”

I’ve never bought into all this nonsense that foreign mysticism can replace good old common sense.

Who on earth could believe that setting up your house using minutely calibrated oriental esoteric measurements brings good fortune when you can simply buy a sprig of lucky heather to go with the horseshoe over your door?

I mean, really!

The thing with mowing the lawn is that it is so monotonous, so indescribably tedious, that your mind wanders. In my case, or so my most darling one tells me, what passes for my brain gets out and goes for a stroll.

As I entered the zen-like state the exhaust fumes from our mower induces, I began to conceive of ever-more grandiose plans for our garden.

Never mind the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Forget Versailles, Kew, and the Martletwy Polytunnels. I had a glittering vision to eclipse them all.

I would create a garden modelled in homage to my wife.

In the dream garden, there would be a fountain modelled after Colin Charvis, a nude statue of Nasser Hussein, maybe a Banksy of Mitzi the Mutt crapping on next door’s driveway, and flowers of such profusion and tasteless gaudiness that an entire series of Ru Paul’s Drag Race could be filmed there.

In the middle would be a life-sized gold statue of my wife’s one true love, Arfon Haines Davies.

A noise and faint movement broke through my daydream. Next door’s sodding moggie was taking a crap in the polyanthus bed. My golden vision vanished. I flicked the switch that put the mower into stealth mode. Never mind eternal beauty. It was cat mince time. Sometimes, mowing the lawn is more fun than you think.

Large turnout makes Pembroke River Rally a resounding success

THE ANNUAL Pembroke River Rally, a cherished tradition organised by the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society (WWMHs) in partnership with the Pembroke Dock Town Council, Pembroke Town Council, and Pembrokeshire County Council, was greeted with fine weather and an impressive turnout, making this year’s event one of the most successful in its history.

Boats began assembling at Crow Pool from 2pm, where participants were welcomed by the sight of the WWMHS lead boat. This year, the rally was graced with the presence of the Mayors of Pembroke Town and Pembroke Dock, who joined the lead boat for the journey up the scenic Pembroke River. With the sun shining and a gentle breeze on the water, the lead boat departed Crow Pool at 2:30pm, followed by an impressive convoy of boats, all eager to partake in this annual spectacle.

The procession made its way up the river, arriving at the iconic Castle Pond around 3pm, where a large crowd had gathered to witness the event. The atmosphere was electric, with the anticipation of the mayoral addresses adding to the excitement. Upon their arrival, the mayors addressed the gathered crowds, expressing their gratitude for the strong community support and the rally’s growing success year after year.

The rally’s success was further highlighted by the sheer number of boats participating.

The car park adjacent to Castle Pond was abuzz with activity as various stands offering food, drink, and gifts catered to the spectators and participants alike. The lively atmosphere was enjoyed by all, with many expressing their delight at the beautiful weather and the splendid organization of the event.

The day’s events were not only about celebration but also about maintaining a crucial right of navigation up the Pembroke River, an important aspect of the local maritime heritage that the rally proudly upholds.

As the afternoon wore on, boats began to depart Castle Pond around 6:30 pm, marking the end of a day filled with community spirit, maritime tradition, and good cheer. Special thanks were extended to The Cove for providing the safety boat, ensuring that the event ran smoothly and safely.

This year’s Pembroke River Rally has set a new standard, not just in terms of participation but also in showcasing the vibrant maritime culture of Pembroke. The rally continues to be a highlight of the local calendar, bringing together the community in celebration of their shared heritage and love for the river.

This year’s Pembroke River Rally will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most successful and enjoyable to date, setting a high bar for the years to come.

Banksy or Bartsky? The great Pembrokeshire puffin prank

RESIDENTS of Saundersfoot awoke to a peculiar sight this Wednesday morning—a wall by the seaside adorned with puffins, not just any puffins, mind you, but those seemingly inebriated by local tipple, Barti Rum. Naturally, the rumour mill kicked into overdrive. Could the elusive Banksy have popped down to Pembrokeshire for a cheeky pint and some puffinpainting?

Social media was soon ablaze with speculation. Thousands of eager netizens were convinced that Banksy, the enigmatic street artist who had recently unleashed an animal art trail across London, had decided to take a holiday in sunny Saundersfoot. After all, after painting piranhas, monkeys, and even a rhino, why not switch to the much-beloved puffin, especially if they’re in the throes of a boozy shower?

The mural in question appeared on the seaward wall of the temporarily closed Beachside Barbecue. It depicted a troupe of puffins gleefully frolicking in a cascade of Barti Rum—a scene so delightfully cheeky that many couldn’t resist grabbing their cameras and dashing down to the beach to witness it firsthand.

However, as it turns out, Banksy hadn’t swapped his London digs for a Welsh hideaway. The mural wasn’t the work of the world’s most famous street artist but rather the creation of a Photoshop wizard with a wicked sense of humour—none other than Barti Rum’s managing director, Fran Barnikel.

In a post that quickly went viral, Barti Rum dropped the bombshell: “BREAKING: Banksy continues their animal series in West Wales. A whirl of puffins has appeared overnight in Saundersfoot, the birds are depicted frolicking in showers of Barti, the local

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

spiced rum.” The cheeky hashtag #onlyjoking was the only clue that perhaps all was not as it seemed.

The brains behind the operation, Neyland-based company founder Jonathan Williams and his coconspirator Fran, had a simple idea.

With Banksy busy in London, why not hitch their wagon to the hype with a little puffin prank? Armed with photos of blank walls and a pinch of creativity, Fran whipped up the now-infamous ‘Bartsky’ mural.

“Bizarrely, I had pictures of blank walls on my phone,” Fran confessed. “When this one in Saundersfoot popped up, I saw the rum-coloured rust marks on the wall and thought it would be the absolute winner for a background.”

And the result? Half a million views, 2,400 likes, and one very entertained county. Although some critics sniffed at the stunt, labelling it a “cheap form of publicity,” the Barti team couldn’t be happier. “We’re just thrilled with the response,” Fran said with a grin.

“It’s made a lot of people smile—us included!”

So, while Banksy may not have set foot in Pembrokeshire this time, the prank has left a lasting impression. And if you find yourself in Saundersfoot, don’t be surprised if you catch a few curious visitors squinting at the seaward wall, still hoping for a glimpse of those rumloving puffins.In the end, perhaps the real artist here isn’t Banksy, but the merry band at Barti Rum, proving that with a little wit and a lot of Photoshop, you can make an entire county—and beyond—believe in puffins that drink rum. Cheers to that!

Health Board launches ‘My Health, My Choice’ engagement exercise

HYWEL DDA University Health Board is inviting people to attend events across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire this september (2024) to find out more about Primary and Community-based healthcare services.

The ‘My Health, My Choice’ engagement exercise includes showcase events in different locations and online, with web pages to provide more information. The Health Board is also asking people to share their experiences on healthcare services and ideas for the future.

The engagement exercise, being held from 2 September to 11 October 2024, is focused on planning how best to deliver Primary Care and Communitybased services, which cover most NHS-provided health and care services outside of hospitals.

These services include Community Pharmacies, (sometimes called Chemists), Optometric practices, (sometimes called Opticians) NHS Dental services, and GP surgeries. Community based services provide outreach teams, district nursing, community clinics, end of life care and more.

Jill Paterson, Director of Primary Care, Hywel Dda University Health Board said: “Our shared vision is to provide safe, sustainable, and accessible health and care services as close to your home as possible, in line with our Healthier Mid and West Wales Strategy.

“We believe that by engaging with our Communities directly, we can better understand their needs and preferences, and try to ensure that our services meet those needs wherever possible.”

“We would like to hear about how you currently use these health and care services, and what you would need to maintain your well-being. We would like you to share your experiences, what matters most to you, and your vision for the future of healthcare in your

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

There are many ways to take part. Attend the Health and Well-being Showcase Events

By attending one of the events, you can learn more about the services available in your community and share your views. Events will be taking place in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. Please see the details of times, dates and venues below or visit our website for more information: https:// hduhb.nhs.wales/primary-care-andcommunity-plan

• 5 September 2024, 2pm-6:30pm, Bancyfelin Village Hall, Bancyfelin, SA33 5ND

• 11 September 2024, 2pm-6:30pm, Regency Hall, Saundersfoot, SA69 9NG

• 12 September 2024, 2pm-7pm, Pontyberem Memorial Hall, Pontyberem, SA15 5HU

• 19 September 2024, 2pm-7pm, Tysul Hall, Llandysul, SA44 4QL

• 24 September 2024, 2pm-7pm, The Hub, Penparcau Community Centre, Aberystwyth, SY23 1RU

• 25 September 2024, 10am-5pm, HaverHub, The Old Post Office, Quay Street, Haverfordwest, SA61 1BG

• 26 September 2024, 2pm-7pm, Ffwrnes Fach, Arts, Health & Wellbeing Hub, Llanelli, SA15 3YE

Join an online event

You can also join our online events from the comfort of your own home:

• 10 September 2024, 11am

• 16 September 2024, 6pm

• A link to complete a registration form to attend an online event can be found here: https://forms.office. com/e/V579Vk6g3D

Complete a questionnaire

Visit our online engagement pages at: https://www.haveyoursay.hduhb.wales.

nhs.uk/ to complete questionnaires from the 2 September to the 11 October 2024

If you cannot attend an event, you can still share your views:

Email us at ask.hdd@wales.nhs.uk

Call us at 0300 303 8322 (choose option 5) for direct communication at local call rates

Post your feedback to FREEPOST HYWEL DDA HEALTH BOARD

Sion James, Deputy Medical Director – Primary Care and Community Services, Hywel Dda University Health board stated: “We want to work alongside our patients and communities, our staff, and contractors who provide services with us, and partners. By listening to you and considering your views and ideas, we think we can provide Services that best meet the needs in our area.

“Your views and ideas will help shape the future of Primary Care and Community-based services. We will keep you informed and give you further opportunities to share your views as we progress. We look forward to meeting you online or in-person at one of our events.”

Fundraising drive in support of the Catermole family raises £6,000

PEMBROKE RUGBY CLUB

recently opened its grounds for a heartwarming community event, Quinnfest, a charity fundraiser in support of the Catermole family. The event, organized by friends of the family, saw a tremendous turnout from the local community, raising over £6,000 in just one day.

The fundraiser was dedicated to a very special cause: supporting 10-yearold Quinn, who was recently diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension (IPH). This rare and serious condition, particularly uncommon among children, is characterised by high blood pressure in the blood vessels that connect the heart to the lungs. Over time, IPH can severely damage the right side of the heart, forcing it to work harder and eventually leading to heart failure.

Currently, there is no cure for this lifealtering condition.

In a heartfelt message posted on social media, Quinn’s friends shared their motivation behind the event: “Quinn is a vibrant young girl whose life has been deeply impacted by IPH. We organised Quinnfest to create a fun-filled day for all ages while raising awareness and funds for Pulmonary Hypertension research. Our goal is to support vital research and provide Quinn with the equipment she needs to enjoy life to the fullest, just as any 10-year-old should.”

The success of Quinnfest highlights the strength and compassion of the Pembroke community, coming together to support one of their own. The funds raised will go a long way in helping Quinn and raising awareness of this rare condition.

Quinn’s parents’ school friends – a group of six of them – organised this event in a matter of week because they felt helpless and they had such a strong

St Davids recognised as one of Wales’ most eco-friendly cities

sT DAVIDs has officially been recognised as one of the most eco-friendly cities in Wales after receiving the Plastic Free Community Award from Surfers Against sewage.

This prestigious award comes as the culmination of two years of dedicated efforts by EcoDewi, St Davids City Council, and various local organisations, all united in their mission to reduce single-use plastics within the city and to promote awareness of sustainable practices.

The team has emphasised that this achievement marks just the beginning of their ongoing commitment. They plan to continue collaborating closely with the local community to further minimise the environmental impact of plastic and waste. In light of this,

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

residents, businesses, and other organisations are being encouraged to participate in the initiative and help St Davids reduce its plastic usage even further.

Additionally, the team has extended their efforts beyond the city limits, partnering with the communities of Solva and Llanrhian to ensure that the fight against plastic waste reaches a broader area.

Pictured are representatives and several businesses and groups involved in the Plastic Free St Davids campaign, receiving their certificate from the Mayor of St Davids, Councillor Bira Sehmi

bond from the start of the school. In fact one of their own teachers, Mr Gareth Mills, compared the event in order to support the family.

Circle Health Group signs international rugby star as leadership ambassador

CIRCLE HEALTH GROUP, which operates Werndale private hospital in Carmarthenshire, has announced that Dan Biggar has signed as the organisation’s first Executive Coach and Leadership Ambassador. Dan brings with him a wealth of experience leading rugby teams at domestic and international level. His role will support a transformation in the way Circle approaches the development of it’s leaders, with Dan playing a pivotal role guiding, supporting and coaching leaders from hospital to board level.

Making his Circle debut at the organisation’s annual Rise Awards in London on Thursday 11th July, Dan was on hand to present the leader of the year award and spoke to the 550 attendees about his commitment to supporting Circle’s leaders at every level.

The Welsh international who currently plays for French Top 14 side Toulon, captained the Welsh national team for their 2022 Six Nations campaign and since 2017 has been a regular in The British and Irish Lion’s touring side. Dan joins Circle with the knowledge and experience of what it takes to lead on the international stage and plans to begin working leaders across the business from September 2024.

The new role, the first of its kind for Circle Health Group, will focus on developing leaders at every level of the organisation. From team leaders on wards or in theatres, through to hospital directors and the board, Circle’s vision is to bring in key individuals who have achieved excellence in their field. Consistently recognised as a top performing organisation by the Sunday Times, Best Companies and others, Circle is confident that the decision to sign Dan into this unique role will ensure that leaders across the

organisation are supported by the best.

Commenting on the appointment, David Cooper, Chief People Officer at Circle Health Group, said:

“I am delighted that Dan decided to sign with us in this unique role at Circle. He has an international reputation for excellence on the field and knows what it takes to motivate, inspire and lead high-performing teams at the top-level in his sport. His

role represents a renewed commitment to our people and their development with us. His appointment is an exciting new chapter in Circle’s story.”

In the coming months Dan will begin getting to know the organisation touring Circle’s 52 hospitals from Aberdeen to Dorset, launching his “Excellence in your team” programme for staff across the UK. The launch of this programme is a commitment by Circle to continuous improvement in the fields of leadership and learning.

When asked what the appointment

meant to him, Dan Biggar, said:

“It’s an honour to be representing an organisation of Circle Health Group’s calibre. Like me, Circle is committed to achieving excellence in its field and I see the potential this role has to offer. I’ve led at the highest levels and representing my country in the game I love, was one of the proudest moments of my life. I see the passion this organisation has for its people and patients. I cannot wait to share what I’ve learnt with Circle’s leaders and drive excellence in every aspect of our game.”

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Innovative support service helps prevent youth offending

THE WELsH Cabinet secretary for social Justice, Jane Hutt, has visited the Carmarthenshire Youth support service along with representatives from the Youth Justice Board.

The service brings youth work and the Youth Justice Team together to support young people. Youth justice services are vital in preventing children from entering the criminal justice system, minimising their contact with it and supporting them to lead crime-free lives.

Carmarthenshire Youth Support Service provides a range of specialised support for children and young people from 8 to 25 to help them reach their full personal, social and educational potential. A recent youth justice inspection gave the service an ‘outstanding’ rating, highlighting the level of care and dedication from staff and partnerships with other organisations which helped children and families to access a range of services.

The Youth Justice Team has benefited from the Welsh Government’s Children and Communities Grant which includes the Promoting Positive Engagement fund for young people at risk of offending. This funding offers preventative and diversionary support for children at risk of entering and for those already within the youth justice system.

This grant funds projects includes restorative justice, such as children writing letters of apology to the victims of their offence and reparation work within the community. It also funds interventions to support young people to lead productive lives free from further offending and receives referrals to the service for young people who are at risk of offending.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Social Justice, Chief Whip and Trefnydd, Jane Hutt, said: “Carmarthenshire Youth Justice Team is dedicated to supporting children, which is evident from their positive inspection report. I was pleased to see first-hand how the committed and motivated team prioritise the needs of the children and young people they support providing creative and innovative interventions.

“The Welsh Government’s approach to youth justice puts children first, centring their needs and ensuring services work in a way that recognises their best interests. With the right support, children can be empowered to live positive, crimefree lives now and in the future.”

Chief Executive of the Youth Justice Board, Stephanie RobertsBibby said: “It was a pleasure to visit Carmarthen Youth Justice Service along with the Cabinet Secretary for

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Social Justice, Jane Hutt, to see such great practice being described with infectious enthusiasm. What struck most was the commitment to apply the child first evidence base to local practice and how much everyone cared about their work, the children, victims and families they work with.

“The extent to which Carmarthen focussed on achieving positive

outcomes for the children and young people they work with was truly impressive, I have no doubt this is why they are rated as an outstanding service by HMI Probation and a quadrant 1 service through our oversight framework. The leadership we witnessed was exemplary and the team, and children they work with, are thriving as a result.”

Director of Community Services for Carmarthenshire County Council, Jake Morgan and Director of Education and

Children’s Services, Gareth Morgans said: “We are incredibly proud of each and every member of our Youth Justice Team and grateful for their incredibly important work, which they conduct to very highest standards.

“Carmarthenshire Youth Justice Team are leaders in their sector and play an integral role within the local authority’s wellbeing objective of enabling our children and young people to have the best possible start in life.”

Cressell Quay pub named the best in Wales

THE Cresselley Arms in Cressell Quay, Pembrokeshire, has been named as one of the top 17 pubs in the UK as part of the Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) prestigious Pub of the Year competition.

CAMRA’s Pub of the Year 2024 competition is hotting up ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, with the announcement of this year’s finalists from the UK’s nations and regions.

Situated on the Cresswell River, stepping into this Grade II listed hostelry is like stepping back in time. Dating back to the 1880s, the Victorian public bar has changed little over the centuries. The homely farm kitchen interior is of national historic interest, with a red and black quarrytiled floor, roaring open cast-iron fireplace, Victorian-era counter and bar-back shelves held up by slender columns.

Accessible by boat from the Milford Haven estuary at high tide and a short drive from Tenby, the pub also lies on a series of interesting walking routes, making it a popular destination for hikers. The Cresselly Arms is a haven for locals and tourists alike, staging community events and collaborating with local food outlets, while serving four excellent cask beers.

A total of 17 fantastic pubs have battled it out with thousands of pubs across the UK to be crowned the winner in their area. Pubs in the competition are scored on their atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, inclusivity, overall impression, but most importantly – the quality of live beer, real cider and perry.

The regional and national finalists will now compete for the UK National Pub of the Year award, with judges whittling the 17 pubs down to just four in late September. CAMRA’s esteemed National Pub of the Year title is the topmost accolade the campaigning group can bestow upon a pub. The overall winner will be announced in January 2025.

Last year’s UK National Pub of the Year winner was the Tamworth Tap in Staffordshire, which won the crown consecutively in both 2023 and 2022.

The recognition of pubs and their place in our communities has never been more important, as the announcement of the top 17 pubs come hot on the heels of the oneyear anniversary of the demolition of the iconic Crooked House in Himley, Staffordshire.

The total destruction of this beloved establishment sent

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

shockwaves across the nation, putting a spotlight on unlawful demolitions and conversions of pubs.

CAMRA continues to fight for stronger planning protections for pubs in Wales, calling on the Welsh Government to require planning permission to be granted before a pub can be converted into another use or demolished so that communities can have a chance to save their local if developers are trying to get rid of it against their wishes.

Andrea Briers, National Coordinator for the Pub of the Year competition says: “These amazing pubs really are the crème de la crème and I would encourage the public to seek out the 17 winners from across the nations and regions of the UK – they are top-tier pubs serving excellent beer, cider and perry, run by welcoming, hardworking staff.

“It’s also important to support your local all year round. With constant pressure from stubbornly high energy prices, fluctuating running costs and grossly unfair business rates threatening to drown pubs across the UK, it’s vital to get out and support the licensed trade.”

Ramsay’s ‘Kitchen Nightmares’ returns

Over nine years ago, Gordon Ramsay announced that he was bringing an end to Kitchen Nightmares, the popular restaurant makeover series that first aired in the UK in 2004 and became an international sensation.

“I’ve had a phenomenal 10 years making 123 episodes, shot across two continents, watched by tens of millions of people and sold to over 150 countries,” Ramsay said at the time. “It’s been a blast, but it’s time to call it a day.”

However, Kitchen Nightmares has now returned to Channel 4, once again challenging the restaurateurs who find themselves in Ramsay’s crosshairs.

“What better time to come back than now, with the challenges that the restaurant industry has faced over the last three years?” says Kitchen Nightmares executive producer David De Angelis, who has also

worked with Ramsay on Hell’s Kitchen and Next Level Chef. “Now is definitely the best time to see if we can throw a lifeline to some of those restaurants that managed to get through the pandemic, as well as others that have opened since then but have had to navigate the changing dynamics of dining over the last couple of years.”

Kitchen Nightmares is undoubtedly an “OG” in the realm of culinary makeover shows, but since its 2014 finale, other shows like Restaurant Impossible, Bar Rescue, and even Ramsay’s own 24 Hours to Hell and Back have emerged. Were there lessons to be learned from these similar ventures?

“Gordon has done this show in every type of restaurant, so we simply took the best elements of Kitchen Nightmares,” De Angelis told TVLine. “Obviously, we didn’t want it to be Bar

Rescue—we wanted it to be Kitchen Nightmares—and we’re fortunate to have the best in the business leading the way. Once you unleash Gordon into a restaurant, we’ve done our homework to know where ‘all the bodies are buried,’ and the show blossoms into everything you’d want it to be.”

De Angelis also admits there was a deliberate effort to “create something that felt nostalgic and recognisable, but also hopefully looks better than it’s ever looked, because technology and cameras have improved so much.”

“Audiences are much more savvy these days,” the executive producer notes. “They want the show to look like [Netflix’s] Chef’s Table or some of these higher-end, premium documentaries, so that was definitely a goal of ours—to make it look gorgeous.”

‘Blink Twice’ hits cinemas today

Amazon MGM Studios has released the first trailer for Zoë Kravitz’s unsettling directorial debut, “Blink Twice.

The film, originally titled “Pussy Island,” centres around Frida (played by Naomi Ackie) and Jess (Alia Shawkat), who are enticed by tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) to join him on his private island for a weekend retreat. What begins as a seemingly steamy holiday quickly spirals into a realitywarping nightmare, forcing the women to realise they must escape if they hope to survive. At one point, Jess jokingly asks Frida, “So do you think the human sacrifice is before or after dinner?” before events take a terrifying turn.

The cast also features

Kyle MacLachlan, Haley Joel Osment, Adria Arjona, Geena Davis, Simon Rex, Christian Slater, and Liz Caribel. Kravitz serves as a producer alongside Bruce Cohen, Garret Levitz, and Tiffany Persons, with Jordan Harkins and Stacy Perskie acting as executive producers.

Amazon MGM has had a strong year in 2024, with its theatrical releases, including the breakout hit “The Beekeeper,” starring Jason Statham, which grossed over $150 million worldwide. Upcoming releases from the studio include Zendaya’s sports romance drama

“Challengers” and the Aubrey Plaza-led comedy “My Old Ass,” produced by Margot Robbie’s LuckyChap Entertainment.

Last year, Amazon MGM

delivered two major releases. “Saltburn,” starring Barry Keoghan and Jacob Elordi, gained viral attention for its striking visuals and intense scenes, while Cord Jefferson’s “American Fiction,” a film about an author frustrated with the portrayal of Black stereotypes by his peers, earned both commercial success and critical acclaim. The latter was nominated for Academy Awards in several categories, including Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Original Score, ultimately winning the award for Best Original Screenplay.

“Blink Twice” is scheduled to be released in cinemas on 23 August.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

Your already blunt, impetuous nature will take over now, but you won’t hear any complaints from loved ones, that’s for darned sure. You have a knack for saying whatever you absolutely must in such entertaining fashion that no one minds a tad. And now you’ll have the element of surprise to help you be even more interesting. As if you ever needed help in that department.

TAURUS

This a good day to assert yourself. You’ve been veering a bit too far to the more passive side of the road, and you need to correct this imbalance soon. Otherwise, people could start to think that you are something of a pushover, which wouldn’t be good for your reputation. There’s a difference between not making waves and letting people walk all over you. Things in your life aren’t at the doormat stage yet, but start being more aware that it could reach that point.

GEMINI

You might need to step up and get everyone on the same page. Recenter the group. Luckily, your leadership energy is at an all-time high. Focus on getting all the different personalities in sync with the same goal. Make a plan that everyone can stick to. And if someone complains, don’t take it personally. Listen to your dissatisfied group members just as closely as you listen to the ones who fawn all over you, doling out praise. In fact, you can often learn more from the dissenters.

CANCER

Today’s astrological menu calls for a great big helping of intrigue, mystery, and secrets of only the most delicious kind. So if you’re asked to keep quiet about a certain issue, you’ll definitely do it. You’re a pro at that sort of thing, after all. No one says you can’t enjoy being in the loop, though. Just try to control your facial expressions. You never were much good at poker.

LEO You wrote the book on loyalty, and that applies to anyone you care about, whether they’re family, friends, or someone you met on the bus who asked for your advice. You may need to exhibit that quality on the spur of the moment today, and you’ll rise to the occasion beautifully. Does this mean that you’ll get overly involved? Maybe, but isn’t that just how you do business? All or nothing, right?

VIRGO

Surprises are en route. Big ones. They’ll be coming to you via your career and the people involved in it. This could mean the higher-ups you’ve been dealing with have been less than honest about your situation, but the chances of that happening are slim, to say the least. What’s more likely is that someone in a position of authority has been working a bit of magic for you from behind the scenes. Either way, get ready for a surprise.

LIBRA

The course of your day could be difficult to pin down. Even if you think you have everything scheduled down to the minute, you could find yourself revising plans once or twice. But don’t worry. These changes will be fun, and they’ll probably make you very happy. Sometimes commitments are made to be broken, and people understand that. If you need to cancel or reschedule something with a friend or coworker, don’t worry. They won’t get mad.

SCORPIO

You’re an expert at focus, which some folks might actually call “obsession,” and you love nothing more than that feeling of concentration. It translates into infatuation in your book, and it’s all good. You’re feeling it now, but don’t worry about being there alone. The object of your attention is not only on the same page, they’ve actually begun to read ahead of the assignment. Be sure you want to end up in the same place before you keep going.

SAGITTARIUS

It’s a little-known fact that you are an expert caretaker. It’s not just because you can make anyone laugh at any time, and laughter, after all, really is the best medicine. You’re also quite intuitive, so you know what they need, oftentimes, before they do. So when a dear one comes to you, obviously worn out and in need of a helping hand, you’ll be more than happy to do whatever you can to help.

CAPRICORN

You’re a born leader. You always have been and you always will be. So when someone comes to you now asking that you help take charge of a difficult project that just isn’t getting off the ground properly, you’ll be more than happy to do it. Just be sure what you’re doing isn’t interfering with your real job. Paychecks are a wonderful thing too.

AQUARIUS

Okay, so you’re not famous for being the type of person who conjures up greeting card sentiments every time your mouth opens. You have other redeeming qualities, among them the ability to call a spade a spade. At the moment, however, you’ll be amazed by just how poetically you’ll describe that same spade. If you embarrass easily and you can’t stand the thought of someone remembering you in this verbal condition, better swear off conversation entirely for at least a couple of days.

PISCES

A casual conversation could turn toward emotional topics, and you’ll be thrilled about it, mostly because your conversation partner is someone you’re curious about. This is a great chance for you to get to know how they think, why they think what they think, and maybe even what they think of you. Don’t be afraid to steer the topic back to the deeper stuff if they start to back off. You can’t let this opportunity go to waste. Share your emotions.

BLIMEY, I’ve had a gander at this new World of Warcraft expansion, “The War Within,” and let me tell you, it’s a feast for the eyes, but there’s a wee thorn in the proverbial side that needs addressing. I mean, I rocked up in London to try out the alpha, expecting a bit of virtual mayhem, and boy, did it deliver.

Picture this: you wake up buried under a pile of boulders, waves crashing like some scene out of a dystopian holiday in Cornwall, surrounded by a battlefield that’s more ‘Game of Thrones’ than your average Sunday stroll. Some heroic soul shouts out to Jaina or Thrall that you’ve made it through, only to get flattened by a horde of creepy crawlies before you can say “where’s my pint?” Welcome to “The War Within” – and it’s chaos, beautiful chaos.

Now, the Isle of Dorn, where this all kicks off, is littered with these glowing purple crystals. I’m squinting at them, thinking, “Aha, could this be Dalaran’s ghostly remnants?” Probably. As I’m swatting away these Nerubian beasties, I’m invited to hop on one of these shiny new dynamic flight mounts, which used to be called Dragonriding, but now it’s like ‘mounts on steroids.’ You soar into the stormy skies, and suddenly, there it is – Dornogal, a city that could’ve been ripped straight out of a Tolkien fever dream. It’s grand, it’s glorious, and it’s carved entirely

out of stone, like some ancient ode to the gods of rock and roll. The place is dripping with a perfect blend of dwarven machinery and magical blue veins that spider across the architecture. I’m telling you, I haven’t been this impressed since Zuldazar back in Battle for Azeroth – and that was a zone that practically oozed majesty from its golden step pyramids to its lush jungle surroundings. But now, Dornogal might just steal the crown. And let’s not forget the sinister allure of Azj-kahet, with its venomous greens and purples that have already ensnared my gothic soul. There’s something Warhammer-esque about it, all grimdark cathedral vibes – it’s right up my alley, minus the arachnids, which, by the way, are terrifyingly well-rendered.

But, good news for my fellow arachnophobes – Blizzard’s thrown in an arachnophobia filter. No more sleepless nights thinking about those eight-legged nightmares, because now you can switch them out for crabs. Yes, crabs. I mean, if you’re going to replace one nightmare with another, might as well be something I can have for dinner, right? Even the spider mounts get the crustacean treatment.

Yet, despite all this arachnid fun, dynamic flight, as brilliant as it sounds, left me feeling like I’d had one too many pints. For the first time, you can fly right from the start – no more slogging it from A

to B – but I had a devil of a time getting the hang of it. Imagine, I’ve gathered all the Dragon Glyphs, completed a bunch of races, and yet there I am, plummeting from the sky because my mount’s Vigor ran out three miles from the destination. The maps are enormous now, all designed with this dynamic flight in mind, and three Vigor slots? Nah, it’s just not enough. It’s frustrating, even for an old hand like me, so I can only imagine the newbie players having a right laugh trying to figure it out.

This is an alpha, though, so there’s time to sort these things out before the official release. It’s a minor gripe in what was otherwise a smashing experience. I barely had a few hours with the alpha, but crikey, the emotional rollercoaster! From blowing up a mead field to fend off an army of Nerubians to watching a beloved NPC meet their end – the tone for “The War Within” is well and truly set. As Blizzard peels back more layers of this massive three-part saga, my excitement grows. Sure, I’ll always have a soft spot for Sylvanas Windrunner (sorry, not sorry), but Xal’atath? She might just be the villainess we’ve been waiting for – a powerful, menacing presence that could surpass even the Banshee Queen. The future may look grim for Azeroth, but this feels like a new dawn for World of Warcraft. Fellow Shadow Priests, the time is nigh – a new adventure is on the horizon.

WITH EDDIE THE gAmE guRu

Cardigan Lifeboat Station on the RNLI’s 200th Anniversary

AS the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) marks its 200th anniversary in 2024, it is fitting to honour the legacy of one of its enduring outposts— Cardigan Lifeboat Station. Situated on the picturesque Poppit Sands Beach on the Pembrokeshire coast, the station has been a symbol of courage, community spirit, and lifesaving dedication since its establishment in 1849.

Cardigan Lifeboat Station has a storied history that stretches back over 175 years. Initially managed by local subscription, the station became part of the RNLI’s network in 1850, when the institution took over a 24ft lifeboat. Over the decades, the station has evolved alongside advancements in lifeboat technology and strategy. From its early 27ft lifeboats to the modern, agile inshore vessels, Cardigan has continuously adapted to meet the demands of the often treacherous waters off the Pembrokeshire coast.

Cardigan

The station’s dedication to saving lives is reflected in its impressive medal record, with five awards—three silver and two bronze—recognising the exceptional bravery of its crew. These medals are more than just honours; they are testaments to the station’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea, often in the most challenging conditions.

Cardigan Lifeboat Station’s history is punctuated by remarkable acts of heroism. In 1873, Chief Officer of HM Coastguards, Richard Jinks, was awarded a Silver Medal for his bravery in rescuing the crew of the smack *Ocean of Milford* during a fierce south-easterly wind. This was just the beginning of a long tradition of exceptional service.

One of the most notable rescues occurred in 1980, when Helmsman Robert Reynolds and his crew faced seas towering at 16 feet to save four people and a dog stranded on an 18ft motor cruiser. Reynolds’ exceptional seamanship earned him a Bronze Medal, while his crew

members received the RNLI’s Thanks inscribed on Vellum. This event exemplifies the station’s readiness to confront perilous conditions head-on, a trait that has defined Cardigan’s lifeboat crews for generations.

In more recent years, the station has continued to demonstrate its effectiveness and dedication. In 2023, Helm Mark Williams and crew members Louise Francis and Simon Mansfield were recognised for their role in rescuing two stranded kayakers near the Witches Cauldron. Their actions, which were featured on the BBC’s *Saving Lives at Sea*, showcased the station’s ongoing relevance and adaptability in modern search and rescue operations.

Today, Cardigan Lifeboat Station operates two inshore lifeboats, which are crucial for navigating the tidal sections of the River Teifi and the surrounding coastline. These vessels, a B-class Atlantic 75 and a D-class lifeboat, are designed for rapid response and versatility, enabling the crew to perform rescues in both open sea and more confined river environments.

The station’s commitment to excellence was further highlighted in 2023 when it was awarded the RNLI’s Excellence in Volunteering Award. This recognition underscores the dedication of not just the lifeboat crew, but also the broader community of volunteers and supporters who ensure that Cardigan Lifeboat Station remains ready to answer the call at any hour.

The relationship between Cardigan Lifeboat Station and the local community has always been one of mutual support and respect. From the early days of local subscriptions funding the lifeboat to the present, where the station is a source of pride and collective effort, the people of Cardigan and the surrounding areas have consistently rallied behind their lifeboat station.

As the RNLI celebrates 200 years of lifesaving, Cardigan Lifeboat Station stands as a proud testament to the institution’s enduring mission.

TENBy

RNLI representatives from across Wales participated in a special photo event to commemorate the charity’s 200th anniversary. This unique initiative, named “One Moment for One Crew,” aimed to capture a photographic record of those involved with the lifesaving charity at 18:24 on 1.8.24.

The RNLI, established in 1824, encouraged its volunteers and staff from the UK and Ireland to photograph themselves, their crews, or their teams. Whether lifeguards on a beach, lifeboat crews at stations, fundraisers at events, or volunteers in museums, everyone connected to the charity was asked to submit a photo representing their RNLI role at that precise date and time.

Participants from various RNLI communities in Wales, including Tenby and St Davids Lifeboat Stations, took part in this commemorative event. The photos collected have been uploaded to an online portal and will contribute to a montage image celebrating

Tenby Lifeboat volunteers

Little & broad HAVEN

the RNLI’s bicentenary.

Anjie Rook, RNLI Associate Director overseeing the 200thanniversary programmes, expressed her pride in the charity’s volunteers and staff: “The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for 200 years thanks to its incredible people. We have encouraged anyone involved

with the RNLI to participate in this special photographic event, capturing a moment in time that showcases the dedication of today’s RNLI people and inspiring future generations.”

The RNLI celebrated its official 200th anniversary on 4 March this year, with “One Moment for One Crew” being

one of many events organized to mark this significant milestone.

Since its founding, the RNLI’s volunteer crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives, averaging two lives saved every day for 200 years. Established following an appeal from Sir William

Hillary, the RNLI now operates 238 lifeboat stations around the UK and Ireland, including four on the River Thames, and provides seasonal lifeguards on 238 beaches.

Tenby RNLI said: “Many thanks once again to Lowe Film & Photo Ltd for his amazing photography.”

Little & Broad Haven Lifeboat volunteers

St. Davids FISHGUARD

sT DAVIDs RNLI said they had a wonderful time on our annual visit to Solva harbour week, with two hours of constant lifeboat tours and over £265 raised.

The opportunity to meet and greet aboard the lifeboat is a highlight of the crew calendar and the support is greatly appreciated.

The station said: “Thank you to Solva Harbour Society and the harbour master for welcoming us once again. And a big thank you to Louise at Cafe on the Quay for providing our cre with warm food.”

Angle thank Valero for continuing to fuel lifesaving operations

ANGLE RNLI Lifeboat station has thanked Valero Pembroke Oil Terminal (VPOT) - an international energy company based locally - for contributing to the continuation of lifesaving operations.

VPOT is a major fuel terminal on the Milford Haven Waterway, and this donation to Angle RNLI Lifeboat Station in West Wales, supplements the donation of fuel that has been received from Valero Pembroke Refinery since 2005. 10,000 litres of fuel is donated annually, enough to fuel a Tamar’s journey all the way around the coast of the UK, with some fuel to spare.

In 2023, Angle RNLI lifeboat

launched 83 times and saved three lives.

Last month signalled the beginning of a six-month trial to operate Angle’s all-weather Tamar class lifeboat across the waterway in Milford Haven, from the Port Authority’s jetty.

Jordan Habin RNLI Fundraising and Partnership Manager accepted the donation on behalf of the RNLI today (19 August 2024). She said:

‘On behalf of the RNLI, I would like to thank Valero for their continued support and the generous donations they’ve made to lifeboat stations in Pembrokeshire for nearly 20 years.

‘Without fuel and donations, our lifeboats and crew can’t go to sea and save lives.’

St. Davids Lifeboat volunteers

Fishguard Lifeboat volunteers

ANGLE (MILFORD HAVEN)

THROUGHOUT its history, Angle Lifeboat station has been synonymous with courage and determination. A total of twelve medals—seven silver and five Bronze—have been awarded to its crew members for extraordinary acts of bravery. The station’s medal record speaks volumes about the challenges faced by its volunteers, with each medal representing a story of heroism on the tumultuous seas.

The earliest of these medals dates back to 1833, before the official establishment of the lifeboat station, when Mr. William Field was awarded a Silver Medal for his daring rescue of 12 people from the wrecked Sicilian brig *Felicita*. His bravery set a precedent for the acts of gallantry that would follow over the decades.

Angle Lifeboat Station was officially

established in 1868, initially known as Milford. The construction of the original lifeboat house and slipway cost £306— a significant sum at the time. This facility, which has since been replaced and modernized several times, marked the beginning of a long tradition of lifesaving at Angle.

In 1908, a second station was briefly opened to cope with increasing demands, though it was closed just two years later. The original station continued to serve the local waters, navigating the challenges of both World Wars and evolving maritime technology.

The history of Angle Lifeboat Station is punctuated by numerous dramatic rescues. Among the most notable is the rescue of 28 people from the *SS Molesey* in 1929, where Coxswain James Watkins demonstrated extraordinary seamanship under harrowing conditions. Watkins’ bravery

earned him a Bronze Medal, and his legacy continued with further recognition during World War II for rescues under even more perilous circumstances.

In 1977, during the infamous Fastnet Race, the station’s crew was awarded a special framed certificate for their invaluable assistance to numerous yachts caught in treacherous conditions. The following year, Coxswain William John Rees Holmes was honored with a Bronze Second Service Clasp for his fearless leadership during the rescue of the *Cairnsmore* crew amidst a fierce storm.

As the decades progressed, the station saw significant advancements. From the introduction of steam lifeboats in the early 20th century to the deployment of modern Tamar class lifeboats, Angle Lifeboat Station has continually evolved to meet

the demands of maritime rescue. The station’s facilities have been modernized repeatedly, with the most recent upgrade in 2009, costing over £4 million to accommodate the stateof-the-art Tamar class lifeboat, *Mark Mason*.

Today, Angle Lifeboat Station operates with both an all-weather lifeboat and an inshore lifeboat, reflecting the diverse needs of the waters it patrols. The station remains a critical hub for the RNLI, ensuring the safety of both commercial and leisure traffic in one of the UK’s busiest shipping lanes.

The station’s history is not just a chronicle of past achievements but a living testament to the ongoing dedication of its crew members who stand ready to save lives at sea, just as their predecessors did nearly 150 years ago.

THE HAKIN POINT RNLI branch, based in Milford Haven, has a rich and poignant history marked by the extraordinary dedication of its volunteers. Founded in 1973, the branch owes its inception to the tragic loss of Thomas Sinclair, who was lost at sea in 1959. This heartbreaking event propelled his widow, Joan sinclair, to help establish the Hakin Point

HAKIN POINT RNLI

A MILFORD HAVEN LEGACY

branch, driven by the desire to ensure that others would not suffer the same fate.

Joan Sinclair’s legacy was carried forward by her son, Tom Sinclair, who served as the chairman of the branch for many years until his death in 2011. His leadership and unwavering commitment were pivotal in maintaining the branch’s vibrancy and effectiveness. Under his stewardship, the

branch became a cornerstone of the community, raising substantial funds to support the RNLI’s lifesaving missions.

Among the dedicated members of the branch were John Beckett, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 91, and his wife Dorothy Beckett. John was a long-standing and much-respected member of the RNLI community, contributing significantly to the branch’s

fundraising efforts over the years. Dorothy Beckett now holds the unique distinction of being the only surviving member of the original Hakin Point fundraisers. Her connection to the branch underscores the deep ties and personal commitments that have sustained the RNLI’s work in Milford Haven.

The branch also benefited from the efforts of individuals like Ethel Clarke, the press secretary who ensured that the branch’s activities were well-publicised, and Charlie and Chris Munnigs, who were instrumental in organising fundraising events. These figures, along with many others, were the lifeblood of the branch, working tirelessly behind the scenes to support the RNLI’s mission.

Over the decades, the Hakin Point branch became synonymous with community spirit and volunteerism. The funds raised by these dedicated individuals not only supported the local Angle Lifeboat Station but also contributed to the RNLI’s broader efforts across the UK. The branch’s activities

Hakin Point

Fundraisers Rob & Jan Mathias(70s)

included a variety of fundraising events, from galas and raffles to community fairs, each aimed at generating much-needed resources for the lifesaving operations of the RNLI.

Sadly, as time has passed, many of the original members of the Hakin Point branch have passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication. The loss of John Beckett in 2022 and the earlier passing of Thomas Sinclair and others mark the end of an era. Yet, their contributions have left an indelible mark on the RNLI and the Milford Haven community.

Dorothy Beckett, as the last surviving member of the original fundraisers, represents a living

link to the branch’s storied past. Her continued presence is a reminder of the enduring legacy of those who served the RNLI with such dedication and commitment.

As we reflect on the history of the Hakin Point RNLI branch, it is important to honor the memory of those who dedicated their time and energy to this vital cause. Their work ensured that the RNLI could continue to operate in Milford Haven, providing a critical service to those at risk on the water. Though the branch is no longer active, its legacy will remain a shining example of community spirit and the power of volunteerism.

Former Chairman of Hakin Point RNLI - Tom Sinclair

Hakin Point beauties taking part in the RNLI Cabaret in 1975

Badger Against the Darkness

THERE is no feeling like watching the edge of the world turn shades of red, pink, and orange as the sun sets in the West.

Badger is very fond of warming his old bones as the sunset turns to dusk and then twilight at the start of another evening before he looks for unwary hedgehogs to gut and cows to cough on.

For humans, the onset of night conveys different signals than it does to Badger and his nocturnal kin.

Humans are naturally wary of the dark. They’ve evolved that way. It’s a good strategy for the descendants of apes. Your ancestors were rightly wary of things that go bump in the night and of the deeper shadow lurking in dark undergrowth. After all, those things that bumped and lurked in undergrowth often had claws and teeth and an appetite for flesh.

Let’s face it, readers: before the gas lamp and electric light came along, the normal day was circumscribed by dawn and dusk. Light inside the home depended on tallow candles and a flickering fire in a hearth. If you went outside after dark, your vision was limited by the circle of dim and yellow light cast by a candle in a lantern.

The dark was a menacing environment.

It still is, to an extent.

On the edge of every human settlement is a zone of darkness, the point where streetlamps’ light peters out and the night takes over.

Humans still cluster around light and warmth. No matter how sultry the night, it is cold.

Humans are a species for whom vision is the primary sense. What they fear is the unseen. If something can be seen, it can be described. If it can be described, it can be known. And, if it can be known, the risks it presents can be understood, mitigated or controlled.

That changes as soon as vision becomes less reliable, as it does at night. Then, humans must rely on their other senses, especially hearing.

That scream, that crash through nearby vegetation, the fluttering noise overhead: where did it come from? How nearby is it? Do you think it’s a threat?

And that’s beside the fact that tree roots, stones, and potholes don’t make any noise at all and wait underfoot for any unwary step.

When the hairs on the back of your neck creep up, it’s your inner ape alerting you to danger, whether potential or actual.

The wonder is not that humans are scared of the dark but that they go out in it at all, let alone enter it voluntarily.

At this point, Badger could make a trite observation about the darkness of ignorance and the danger it poses to the light of human civilisation. But he isn’t.

After all, this is Pembrokeshire.

The chances of a leopard or pack of wolves tracking your movements while looking for prey as you wander around deepest, darkest Llangwm (yes, readers, even Llangwm) are vanishingly small.

Badger suggests a different approach.

Look into the darkness.

Let your eyes adjust to it. They will.

Your visual acuity won’t be the same as it is during daylight, but your pupils will expand to allow more light in. The moon shines, and high clouds

scatter starlight and moonlight. There is light.

There must be.

Badger and his ilk don’t have super senses. We are only adapted to see better, sniff out prey better, and hear better when that big yellow light in the sky disappears.

Although millions of years of hereditary adaptation have evolved us to function when the twilight has gone, and no songbirds are singing, humans are adapted to apply their intelligence to understand their surroundings and respond to them.

Badger does what Badger does because he is a badger. Humans do what humans do because they can adapt themselves and influence the environment in which they function.

There are cold nights in February, as the frost forms on the ground and Badger’s breath comes in clouds when Badger feels every year of his age. On those occasions, Badger wishes for opposable thumbs and the ability to strike a match to light some kindling. He’d love some of those warmers that humans use to keep their extremities warm or a balaclava.

That is not Badger’s lot.

Humans, however, have torches of increasing ferocity to puncture the darkness.

Those massive and heavy rubber-wrapped clubs with a piffling little light bulb underneath a lens half an inch thick are long gone, as are those strange plastic ones shaped like Remington shavers.

Now, mobile phones have torches that can punch a hole through the gloom, and a flashlight the size and weight of a Smarties tube can illuminate even the darkest corner.

Some people harp on about how little genetic difference there is between humans and other mammals. When they do so, they mean to draw attention to the shared inheritance that places humans in the animal kingdom instead of being separate from it or above it.

Humans are part of the natural world. They are animals.

However, the Beatrix Potter Club’s analysis is flawed.

Beethoven, Shakespeare, Turner, Newton, and Timmy Mallett lie in the few percentage points between the genetic make-up of chimps, bonobos, and humans.

Humans and other animals share the same world but experience it in unimaginably different ways.

Humanity creates fire intentionally through artificial means and shines a light into dark places.

There’s an old aphorism that it’s better to light a candle than curse the darkness.

Badger agrees. He would go further.

A.E. Housman wrote: “Here on the level sand, between the sea and land, what shall I build or write against the fall of night?”

By the time you get to light a candle, you’re already a long way from cursing the darkness.

Lighting a candle is the culmination of a process that ends with a deliberate action. It requires awareness and creativity.

That’s why Badger doesn’t despair about humanity’s future, even though humans might make him despair about his own.

Shine on, you crazy diamonds.

Is London’s love affair with ‘beak’ losing its shine?

AHOy, me feathered friends of Pembrokeshire! It’s stephen Seagull here, your beady-eyed lookout from the Milford Haven Docks, squawking about the latest shenanigans in that big smoke they call London. Now, I might be a simple seagull, more accustomed to scrounging chips than sniffing powder, but even I can see that the human flock in London has got itself in a right flap over the ol’ nose candy.

Y’see, it’s not the price of a pint or the lack of a late-night chippy that makes London stand out to the visitors—no, no. It’s the sheer mountain of gak, the white stuff, the marching powder! The Londoners have got themselves so hooked on the stuff that even the eels in the River Thames are getting jittery, like they’ve been double-dosing on espresso and are ready to launch their own podcast about the best spots to nap on a riverbed.

But let’s not get our feathers ruffled too quickly, lads and lasses. It’s not just the eels we need to worry about. This city’s been awash with the stuff for years—filling up the sewers with the cokiest greywater in all of Europe! And despite the price of a gram soaring higher than a seagull on a windy day, the stuff’s still everywhere. Back in the day, it was just the City boys, those sharp-suited finance types who needed something to keep ‘em going through the night. But now? You’d think it was on the menu at every pub along the Thames, a cheeky bump with your Thursday pint!

But here’s the kicker, my fellow gulls: the more it spreads, the less people care. Familiarity breeds contempt, as they say. What was once the thrill of the night has turned into just another routine, as dull as waiting for the tide to come in. The young’uns today, those Gen Z types, they’re turning their beaks up at it. They’re smarter than us millennial seagulls, it seems—they’ve seen the mess we’ve made, and they’re not keen to follow in our wingbeats.

Now, I know some of you might think that what goes around comes

around, and maybe the cycle will spin back to the glory days of coke. But with the world getting hotter and pockets getting emptier, the young folk are steering clear of the stuff. They’ve got bigger fish to fry—like saving the planet, or at least finding a way to afford a house that doesn’t

cost an arm and a wing.

So, what’s the future hold for the party birds in London? Well, maybe the powder’s losing its punch. Maybe the cool kids will be trading in their baggies for something else soon enough. Or maybe, just maybe, they’ll come to their senses and realize that

a life lived in the moment, with the wind in your wings and the sun on your back, beats any high you can get from a line on a mirror.

Until next time, keep your wings clean and your chips close. This is Stephen Seagull, signing off from the docks!

Dog death ‘like losing a family member’

IN the UK, a nation renowned for its love of dogs, a new survey conducted by Dogs Trust has brought to light the profound impact of losing a canine companion.

The charity, which operates rehoming centres in Cardiff and Bridgend, has revealed that the death of a dog is felt as deeply as losing a family member by a vast majority of dog owners. Yet, despite this deep emotional connection, many find themselves isolated in their grief.

The survey, which polled UK dog owners and those who have previously owned dogs, found that 89% of adults equate the loss of a dog to the loss of a close family member. However, the findings also indicate that nearly half of those surveyed encountered significant barriers when trying to open up about their feelings

after their dog passed away.

Among the reasons cited for not discussing their grief were fears that others wouldn’t understand their feelings (22%), worries about being judged for their emotional response (15%), feelings of embarrassment over their distress (12%), and difficulty finding the right words to express their sorrow (13%).

While a majority (74%) of respondents felt comfortable turning to close family members to share their grief, only 13% believed they could talk about it with employers and colleagues. This suggests that, despite the deep bond between dogs and their owners, societal support for grieving pet owners remains limited.

In response to this widespread emotional void, Dogs Trust has launched

its first-ever Walk for Our Old Friends (WOOF) event.

The charity hopes that by encouraging dog owners to come together and share their cherished memories, they can find comfort and begin to heal from their loss.

The event invites people across Wales to join in a Woof Walk, where they can walk in memory of their beloved dogs alongside friends and family. Participation is free, but with a £10 donation, walkers will receive a WOOF branded lanyard with a memory card to wear during their walk, as well as a wildflower coaster containing seeds to plant in a garden or along a dog’s favourite route. Participants are also encouraged to share their memories on the Dogs Trust Memory Wall.

Samantha Davis, Legacy and In-Memory Manager

at Dogs Trust, emphasised the importance of providing support to grieving pet owners:

“The loss of a pet dog can be as devastating as losing a family member. Dogs hold a special place in our hearts, offering unconditional love and companionship, and when they pass away, the grief can be profound and, sadly for some, isolating.

“It’s really important that owners who experience the loss of their canine companions can open up and share their feelings with friends and family. Many will find solace in knowing they are not alone.”

For more information on how to join the Woof Walk or to download the online packs, visit [Dogs Trust WOOF Walk] (https://events.dogstrust.org. uk/event/walk-for-our-oldfriends).

NRW prosecutes over silt pollution

A FARMER has been successfully prosecuted by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) for “reckless” pollution of a two-mile stretch of a stream near Castellau, Rhondda Cynon Taf.

Mr Huw Pritchard of Castellau Fach Farm pleaded guilty to causing silt pollution of the Nant Castellau, which flows into Nant Muchudd, a tributary of the River Ely.

Following reports in October 2022 from members of the public of discoloured water in the stream near Castellau Chapel, NRW’s investigation revealed the stream was being polluted by silt caused by construction work near the Nant Castellau on land adjacent to The Croft on Castellau Road.

The court was told that Mr Pritchard was constructing a pond and banks near the stream to try to resolve flooding issues. However, he did not have the necessary permission from NRW and had not put in place pollution prevention measures to stop silt-laden water runoff from entering the

watercourse.

High levels of suspended solids in rivers reduce water quality and harm the ecology. They kill most of the insects in the affected stretch and, at very high levels, can also kill fish.

Silt pollution also decreases the level of oxygen in the water and hinders plant growth by reducing the amount of light

passing through the water. Siltation can also impact fish spawning grounds by smothering gravel beds and clogging up the spaces between the stones, reducing the spawning and hatching of fish eggs.

At the sentencing hearing in Merthyr Magistrates’ Court on 31 July 2024, Mr Pritchard

was fined £250 with a victim surcharge of £100 and ordered to pay NRW costs of £850. The level of fine for environmental offences is set by the courts and is based on the financial means of the defendants. Mr Pritchard’s solicitor confirmed to the court that he was only making £150 per week as a farmer.

Welsh Conservatives call for statutory powers for RSPCA Cymru

THE WELsH CONsERVATIVEs

have called for the RSPCA to be given statutory powers to help prevent animal cruelty.

The RSPCA has said the powers would allow inspectors to access and rescue animals quicker.

The powers, which would be granted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, would give RSPCA Inspectors the ability to independently acquire a warrant, enter outbuildings on private land and automatically seize and remove animals from situations that negatively impact their welfare.

Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs

James Evans said handing the powers to the RSPCA would be “a reasonable and radical step”.

2024 is the RSPCA’s 200th anniversary, and providing it with these powers would align it with its sister organisations, including the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Billie-Jade Thomas, Senior Public Affairs Manager for the RSPCA in Wales, said the change would “better equip our officers to undertake their highly-important duties.”

Launching the policy, James Evans MS, Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, said: “Wales is a nation of animal lovers, and we are famed around the

world for our farm produce such as lamb. So it’s all the more important that we ensure animals, in homes and on farms, are protected from cruelty.

“This policy is a reasonable and radical step to build on the work that has already been done to continue to prevent animal cruelty in Wales.”

Billie-Jade Thomas, Senior Public Affairs Manager (Wales) of the RSPCA, said: “We are delighted to see the Welsh Conservatives’ ongoing support for granting our inspectors statutory powers under the Animal Welfare Act.

“Such action would better equip our officers to undertake their highly important duties while helping us reach the animals who need us most more quickly.

“With our frontline rescuers so busy right across the country, we look forward to working with Members of the Senedd from all parties – and the Welsh Government – to hopefully progress these proposals in our 200th anniversary year, as we work to build a better world for every kind.”

Andrew RT Davies MS, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, added: “This announcement builds on our pledge to be a voice for all of Wales by ensuring that we can continue to prevent animal cruelty and maintain our fantastic reputation for animal management.”

How a dairy farm slashed newborn calf mortality rates

WILL and Alex Prichard calve 500 cows in a spring block at Escalwen, near Letterston, and also run two 200-cow autumn calving herds.

That high throughput of calves can present disease challenges – in the three years to 2023, calf mortality from neonatal diarrhoea averaged 9.5%, peaking at 16% in 2022 when the herd was subject to bovine TB movement restrictions.

“Over my entire farming career, one of the most depressing things I have experienced is when calf rearing goes wrong and when mortality and sickness in calves becomes almost insurmountable,’’ said Mr Prichard.

In an attempt to correct weaknesses in their system, in 2023 the Prichards and their calf rearer, Tom Phillips, embarked on a new feeding programme guided by veterinary consultant Ryan Davies.

They invested in two pasteurisers, part funded by the Welsh Government Small Grants – Efficiency scheme, feeding cow transition milk enriched with whole bovine powdered colostrum after calves had received their colostrum feed.

Transition milk is produced by the cow from the second milking after calving, up to the sixth, and contains a higher percentage of milk solids, antibodies, vitamins and minerals than milk produced after this point in the lactation.

It also has elevated levels of growth factors, natural antimicrobial proteins and other bioactive substances.

But the quality of transition milk is highly variable. That, in conjunction with the transfer of passive immunity (TPI) from colostrum dictating a calf’s antibody levels, will make a significant difference to health and performance.

If calves don’t receive sufficient antibodies, they are more likely to die, suffer from diarrhoea or respiratory issues, and require treatment with antibiotics.

Taking blood samples from calves and using IgG as a biomarker to standardise transition milk is one solution and this is what the Prichards did, supported by the Farming Connect ‘Try Out’ Fund, an initiative that funds individuals and groups of farmers and growers to experiment with ideas and bring them to life.

Throughout the calving season, Dr Davies took daily blood samples from newborn

calves in their first 24 hours.

The results showed that 21% had an excellent TPI, 7% good, 41% fair and 31% poor.

“This is about average for the UK and good for a dairy block calving herd,’’ said Dr Davies, of Veterinary Technical Consulting Ltd.

The total solids in the pasteurised transition milk were measured with a Brix refractometer and, depending on the reading, it was enriched with a colostrum powder from SCCL to standardise it to a minimum of 12.5% Brix or 14.5% milk solids –instead of powder another option is to add whole milk colostrum.

“If we didn’t reach that threshold we added whole bovine colostrum powder to it to increase the Brix reading,’’ Dr Davies explained.

“The average Brix for the milk at Escalwen was 10.5% so we raised that to 12.5%, but every farm will be different.’’

Other parameters used for the milk were a total bacterial count of under 100,000 colony-forming units (cfu)/ml, a total coliform count of less than 10,000 cfu/ml and no antibiotic residues.

“It is important that calves aren’t fed any antibiotic residues because they inhibit the growth of the normal healthy gut microbiome,’’ said Dr Davies.

The milk was fed to calves up until day 10.

This approach resulted in a significant improvement in calf health and a major reduction in mortalities.

Mortality resulting from neonatal diarrhoea reduced from an average of 9.5% to 3% and antibiotic usage in pre-weaned calves to 16%, from the five-year average of 45%.

Importantly, no highestpriority critically important antibiotics (HP-CIA) were used pre-weaning in 2024; in 2022 use of these had hit a high of 1.98mg/PCU.

Although feeding transition

Shows, shows and more shows!

the autumn.

milk comes with some additional cost, from labour and equipment for its collection through to storage and heating, Mr Prichard said the improvements had completely changed the mood on the farm during the calving period.

“Once you get your head around how important IgGs are, it almost becomes a passion to harvest as much of that IgG as you possibly can and utilise it in your own herd.’’

As well as transition milk feeding, improvements were made to hygiene and cleanliness to reduce the disease challenge.

Pasteurising the milk was a “game changer’’, he added, to reduce disease risks such as Johne’s and bovine TB.

The milk was pasteurised for 60 minutes at 60°C to destroy pathogens including mycoplasma, salmonella, E. coli and listeria.

Pasteurising at higher temperatures or for a longer duration can reduce antibody levels, although studies have shown this is more effective in the destruction of Johne’s and bovine TB organisms which can be detected after heating to 60°C for 60 minutes.

Top tips for feeding transition milk

• Adhere to good hygiene practices when collecting and storing prior to feeding

• Heat to the correct temperature before feeding

• Take the health status of the herd into account to reduce risk of disease transfer, particular if pasteurisation is not used.

• In systems that feed calf milk replacer instead of whole milk, the equivalent mass of milk powder should be removed and replaced with colostrum powder to maintain the solids percentage and prevent osmotic diarrhoea.

It is that time of year where we all come together at our agricultural shows to catch up, showcase exceptional stock, enjoy a festival vibe and drink lots of tea and coffee! That’s definitely the case unless you’re a show organiser, official or volunteer. The work and effort that the volunteer teams put in during the months leading up to these events in preparation for the big day is nothing short of extraordinary. Without the hours of organising, committee meetings and hard graft, these important events in Wales’ agricultural calendar would not see the light of day. We are completely indebted to these community champions for their commitment, diolch bawb!

This past week saw the two day Anglesey County Show which was followed swiftly by the Pembrokeshire County Show and the week was closed at the Denbigh and Flint Show which was held on Thursday, the 15th of August. In addition we also had the Wales National Sheepdog trials at Ystrad Meurig and numerous other local shows dotted across the length and breadth of Cymru fach. What a vibrant picture of agriculture in Wales!

Our FUW teams pulled out all the stops to welcome members, friends and supporters to our stands during the week. The shows saw us engaging with numerous elected representatives, including the new First Minister, Eluned Morgan, who attended her first meeting in her new role with us at the Pembrokeshire Showground. She and her cabinet team have vowed to listen to the public and stakeholders over the summer months with the aim of putting together a set of priorities for the people of Wales during the autumn. As you know, at the FUW we take every opportunity to engage with the Welsh Government to ensure that we relay the concerns of the agricultural community to those who have the power to make a difference to our lives. Let’s see whether they have listened to us come

Last week we also heard from the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, that the Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board has now been established. The news completes the full structure now in place following the formation of the Bovine TB Technical Advisory Group earlier this year. We welcome this development but many of our members are repeatedly telling us that this issue needs to be tackled with much more urgency since so many farms continue to struggle with the aftermath of this harrowing disease.

In 2022, FUW analysis estimated that the total cost of bovine TB premovement testing borne by cattle keepers in Wales was more than £2.3 million. A staggering 11,197 animals were slaughtered in the 12 months up to March 2024. Despite this we still see little or no improvement in terms of the prevalence of the disease.

As the Welsh Government continues to try and grapple with the scourge of TB in cattle, the lack of leadership in dealing with this disease in wildlife continues. Evidence from the first 52 badger cull areas in England show that rates of bovine TB breakdowns in cattle are down by 56% on average after four years of culling. Farmers, as ambassadors of the countryside, want to see healthy and thriving wildlife populations here in Wales but allowing diseased wild animals to die lingering deaths from TB is not a great advert for those concerned with animal welfare.

There is little doubt that dealing with the bureaucracy involved with disease control in livestock, the challenges and uncertainties of the Sustainable Farming Scheme and the continuing shadow on the sector of the Control of Agricultural Pollution regulations on our farms is another reason to come together over a cup of tea at the summer shows. There’s definitely strength in unity and sharing your hopes and concerns at these wonderful community events.

mThe Musk Effect: A third of Brits less likely to buy a Tesla

A nationally representative survey of 2,000 Brits[1] has revealed that a third (33%) of people are less likely to buy a Tesla due to Elon Musk’s recent behaviour and his political stance.

The survey, commissioned by digital car finance lender Carmoola, aimed to assess how Elon Musk’s political stance and recent actions, as CEO of Tesla Motors, influence people’s likelihood of purchasing a Tesla.

In contrast, around one in five (19%) of Brits stated that Musk’s actions make them more inclined to choose a Tesla. This trend is especially strong among young adults, with 38% of those aged 16-24 and 35% of those aged 25-34 being more likely to purchase a Tesla because of Musk’s influence on the brand.

Among current Tesla owners, 45% indicated they are considering selling their cars due to Elon Musk’s recent public activities. Meanwhile, 41% are not looking to sell, though over half of them (22%) mentioned that while they’re not planning to sell now, they wouldn’t purchase another Tesla in the future.

Musk has particularly turned off women, with 36% saying they wouldn’t consider a Tesla because of Musk, compared to 30% of men.

Regionally, Wales shows the

most resistance to Teslas, with 41% of residents saying they wouldn’t buy one because of the CEO, while in contrast, 36% of Londoners are more likely to purchase a Tesla following Musk’s recent actions.

Aidan Rushby, founder and

CEO of Carmoola, said: “With Elon Musk’s recent actions and political stance being made more and more public, we thought it would be interesting to see if this has swayed Brits opinion on his car brand.

”It’s clear that Musk’s link

with Tesla has swayed people both towards and away from the car giant. The stats surrounding the younger generation are also interesting as many of those aged under 35 seem more likely to buy Tesla because of Musk’s influence on the brand.”

Starmer and Morgan vow to supercharge Britain’s clean energy mission

IN a landmark visit to West Wales, Prime Minister Keir s tarmer and Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan have pledged to intensify efforts to position Britain as a global leader in clean energy. The two leaders visited a wind farm in West Wales, a project bolstered by Welsh Government funding, to underscore their commitment to renewable energy and energy independence.

During their visit, the Prime Minister and First Minister announced their intention to closely collaborate in accelerating the establishment of a publicly owned energy company. This initiative aims to capitalise on the strides already made by the Welsh Government, including the creation of Trydan Gwyrdd Cymru, a public entity poised to produce 1 GW of clean energy by 2040—enough to power nearly a million homes in Wales.

“Great British Energy,” the UK Government’s flagship initiative, is at the heart of this

mission. With £8.3 billion in new investment allocated over this Parliament, the company is set to play a pivotal role in the nation’s clean energy future. Prime Minister Starmer highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “We have inherited an incoherent energy policy that has left homes vulnerable to rocketing energy bills. But the Welsh Government has made important strides that we can now build on. I am determined that Wales is at the very heart of our mission to make Britain an energy superpower.”

The Prime Minister emphasised that this collaboration with Wales is a “fresh start” under the new Government, marking a reset in relations between the UK and Welsh Governments based on “collaboration and respect.”

This partnership is expected to deliver substantial clean energy investments across Wales and the rest of the UK, contributing significantly to the nation’s goal of achieving clean power by 2030.

First Minister Morgan

echoed these sentiments, pointing out the Welsh Government’s proactive stance in the energy transition. “While the previous UK Government focused on fracking and fossil fuels, we took positive action to ensure we deliver on our environmental commitments. Harvesting our wind and using it to produce power offers us, and the people of Wales, the ability to own the returns on what will be a significant investment,” Morgan said.

The visit comes as The Crown Estate launches the latest phase of its Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5. This initiative is expected to unlock 1,000 km² of seabed, potentially generating up to 4.5 gigawatts of renewable electricity—enough to power every home in Wales three times over. The Crown Estate projects that these new wind farms could create over 5,000 jobs and inject £1.4 billion into the economy.

The second leg of Prime Minister Starmer’s visit will focus on examining how

green investment can power thousands of homes across South West Wales and provide financial benefits to the surrounding communities. The site visit will include meetings with apprentices and workers, highlighting the sector’s role in creating jobs and training the future workforce.

As the UK Government moves swiftly to introduce measures aimed at achieving energy independence, significant steps have already been taken. These include scrapping the ban on onshore wind development, expediting planning decisions for solar farms, and securing a deal with The Crown Estate to build more offshore wind projects.

In the words of Prime Minister Starmer, these actions are designed to ensure that “families and businesses are never left vulnerable again,” paving the way for a future where Britain leads in clean energy, ultimately benefiting the environment, the economy, and the nation’s energy security.

Reform UK secures first three councillors in Wales

REFORM UK has welcomed its first three councillors in Wales, marking a significant milestone for the party. The councillors—David Thomas, Jason O’Connell, and Alan slade—formerly independent representatives for Torfaen County, have decided to align with Reform UK, drawn by the party’s “common sense” approach to politics.

David Thomas and Alan Slade were previously Labour councillors, while Jason O’Connell was a member of the Conservative Party. The trio, who represent the Llantarnam ward, were introduced to the public by Reform’s chief whip, Lee Anderson MP, at the Greenhouse pub in Cwmbran. Anderson, himself a former member of both Labour and the Conservatives, underscored the significance of this development as the party sets its sights on the 2026 Senedd election, which he described as “a massive target.” However, Anderson was also candid in his criticism of the Senedd, labelling it “a waste of time” and asserting that “we are one country.”

The councillors, who will now form a group of three on the Labour-controlled council, have dismissed the idea of calling a by-election, stating that they will continue to represent their constituents without “constraints.” Alan Slade expressed his support for Reform’s goal of “saving on bureaucracy” and called for a reduction in the number of councils in Wales. “We’ve still got 22 councils,” Slade pointed out, adding, “Now they’ve added extra tiers of public service boards, regional partnership boards. It’s a mess,

that it was “much worse” when a now-suspended Labour councillor suggested violence against what he called far-right thugs.

frankly.” David Thomas echoed this sentiment, advocating for more funding to be directed towards “frontline services” rather than administrative roles.

Reflecting on his time as a councillor, Thomas said: “I’ve learned so much more now, being a councillor the past seven years. You adapt, change, and move forward, don’t you?” This evolution in perspective seems to align with Reform’s broader political stance, which has seen it critique both Labour and the Conservatives for their handling of key issues.

Jason O’Connell, when asked about his alignment with Reform, mentioned his support for NHS reform and improving transportation links in Wales. He highlighted his interest in local government reform, a stance that resonates with Reform UK’s calls for a French-style insurance-based health system during their general election campaign. O’Connell stated: “I’d like to see a more effective use of the budget received [by Wales] from Westminster.”

Notably, during the press event, the councillors did not address the topic of immigration, a central issue in Nigel Farage’s campaigns. When questioned, David Thomas said he would need to see statistics before commenting on the impact of immigration in Torfaen. He also addressed the controversy surrounding Farage’s questioning of the police’s handling of the Southport killings, which led to riots in parts of Britain. “Nigel Farage was just asking a question,” Thomas remarked, adding

Alan Slade emphasised that the councillors are free to guide the party towards a focus on community values. “There are no constraints on us,” he stated. “We can take the party down the route of community focus and community values. [Immigration] is for the main party to deal with.” The councillors also expressed that their move to Reform UK would allow them to “gain access to greater resources” to better advocate for vulnerable communities.

This development follows the performance of Ian Michael Williams, Reform’s general election candidate for Torfaen, who secured second place, trailing Labour’s Nick ThomasSymonds by 7,322 votes. Although Reform did not win any Welsh seats in the general election, it garnered 16.9% of the vote share, placing it third and just 1.3% behind the Conservatives.

Lee Anderson, MP for Ashfield, praised the councillors’ “bold” decision and highlighted the 2026 Senedd election as a crucial goal for the party. While he refrained from specifying the number of seats Reform aims to win, Anderson commented: “There is a feeling people have had enough of the two mainstream parties. They want a party that actually listens to them rather than just ignores them.”

However, Anderson’s support for the existence of the Senedd appears lukewarm at best. “I think we are one country and that extra layer, it does slow things down,” he said, criticising the performance of the Welsh health service under Labour. When asked if a Welsh Government led by Reform would dismantle the Senedd, Anderson responded: “I don’t know, you’d have to ask the membership… They will develop policy and decide what we’re going to do, not people like me.” Nevertheless, he did reveal his personal stance: “I’d get rid of all devolved governments tomorrow. All of them. I think they’re a waste of time. They’re damaging the countries.”

W ITH ANDREW LyE

tends to go quiet in August, when MP’s (and Councils) are not having meetings as they take their holidays. So I have found an unusual story from the Liberal Democrats that raises a serious issue, but from a new perspective. The Liberal Democrats raised the issues of sewage in our rivers and seas, long before the other political parties, but it is now a serious matter for our politicians to deal with.

• Almost 8 in 10 dog owners who visit the beach in the UK say the discharge of untreated sewage means they would be less likely or would not let their dog swim in British seas

• Poll also finds a rise in swimmers put off going into the sea due to untreated sewage

• New research follows reports by dog owners of their pets becoming sick from water pollution

• Liberal Democrat MP and qualified vet Danny Chambers calls on the government to “save our dogs from the sewage crisis”

Shocking new polling commissioned by the Liberal Democrats has found almost eight in ten (78%) British dog owners who visit UK beaches say they are put off letting their dog in the water because of untreated sewage.

Of those dog owners who visit UK beaches often or sometimes in the summer months, a staggering one in three (37%) say sewage discharges have meant they will not let their dogs in the sea at all, whilst one in four (41%) say it makes them less likely.

Further data shows that seven in ten (74%) Brits who usually swim in the sea say that they now wouldn’t or would be less likely to, this is an increase from 68% in July 2023. Another six in ten (62%) beach visitors reveal that they either wouldn’t or are less likely to visit the beach as a direct consequence of

water companies pumping untreated sewage into British waters.

The polling comes after recent analysis by the Liberal Democrats found that since 2020, water companies have discharged sewage into bathing water areas 105,347 times, which is equivalent to a staggering 694,487 hours worth of sewage.

The two worst offending companies were United Utilities, which dumped sewage into the Lake District, and South West Water, polluting beaches in Devon and Cornwall.

The new Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Winchester, Danny Chambers, is a practising vet who has campaigned on tackling the sewage crisis to protect animals.

There have been reports in the South West of dogs becoming sick after swimming near Exmouth, as well concerns for dog wellbeing in St.Albans due to e.coli.

Commenting on the research, vet and Liberal Democrat MP Danny Chambers said:

“The new government must save our dogs from the sewage crisis. Reports from across the country of dogs becoming sick after swimming in the sea are truly shocking, and frankly this is a national scandal.

“For years, water companies have been pumping filthy sewage into our rivers and seas, whilst the former Conservative Government watched on idly as this environmental catastrophe rumbled on.

“The British public have had enough, and who can blame them? Everyone has the right to enjoy British beaches this summer, including our four legged friends. It’s high time that we crack down on corrupt water companies and hold them to account until they clean our waters.

“This should start with an immediate ban on water company bonuses, a new industry regulator with real teeth, and an end to profit before the environment.”

BLUE VIEW

WITH PAUL DAVIES MS

Community Cohesion and spirit at the County Show

As readers will be aware, last week was the annual Pembrokeshire County Show. It’s Pembrokeshire’s largest agricultural event and I had the pleasure of attending on both days. I had a jampacked itinerary with several meetings lined up, but still had plenty of time to welcome people to my party’s stand so they could enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and talk to me about some of the issues that matter to them. The Pembrokeshire Show has always been one of the highlights of my summer calendar – and it was great to see people coming together to support our fantastic agricultural industry.

There was a wonderful atmosphere and on the first day at least, we had some fantastic weather. I met with the National Farmers Union Cymru and the Farmers Union of Wales and they both stressed just how difficult times are for our farmers. We talked about Bovine TB which continues to be a huge issue for local farmers and has been for many years. It’s no surprise that they’re frustrated at the lack of action from the Welsh Government in tackling the problem and it was made explicitly clear to me that it’s having an enormous impact on farmers’ mental health. We also discussed the Welsh Government’s agricultural water pollution regulations and the Sustainable Farming Scheme proposals too – both of which are also making farmers’ lives difficult.

On the second day of the Show, I visited the Community Zone, which had around twenty local charities and organisations who were all really keen to talk to me about their work across Pembrokeshire. Times aren’t just tough for farmers, they’re tough for a lot of people and organisations like Cwm

320,000 more people pushed into poverty because of mortgage interest rate rises

Arian for example, are doing a great job of helping people by providing energy advice and thermal image surveys to local communities. I also spoke to PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship) who told me about the new snack packs that they offer to families across the County, PATH (Pembrokeshire Action for the Homeless) about their new counselling service and Pembrokeshire

FRAME about how they’re working collaboratively with other organisations to support people. That sense of community cohesive and collaboration was radiating from the tent and I’m extremely proud to represent such a caring and considerate constituency where organisations are working together.

I also took the opportunity to speak to some local businesses in the Milford Waterfront tent about the current landscape and to hear more about what they want to see from governments at all levels. Image By Vanessa, a clothing store based on the waterfront made it clear to me that more needs to be done to regenerate high streets and that Pembrokeshire County Council need to better recognise their importance to the local community. We talked about everything from increasing footfall to public transport and parking and it was clear that businesses still feel that they don’t have enough support.

This year’s Show gave me a lot of food for thought and I’ll be taking the feedback I received to the Welsh Government and pressing them to use the powers they have to better us here in Pembrokeshire - and whilst the weather was disappointing on the second day, the sense of pride and community spirit felt around the showground more than made up for it.

MANy households remortgaging or taking out new mortgages since 2022 have experienced sharp falls in their disposable income as higher interest rates have pushed up housing costs, and this has pushed 320,000 such people into poverty. However, official data do not properly measure mortgage interest payments, so official poverty statistics will only capture about two-thirds of this effect (230,000 people).

These are the findings of a new IFS report funded by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, which examines recent trends in poverty and deprivation. Other key findings include:

• Despite the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, the overall rate of absolute poverty was the same in 2022–23 as in 2019–20 (18%, or 12.0 million people), though it did rise slightly by 0.8 percentage points (520,000) between 2021–22 and 2022-23. There was a significant increase in more direct measures of hardship. For example, the proportion of working-age adults who reported being unable to keep their home warm enough rose from 4% to 11% (1.8 million to 4.6 million) between 2019–20 and 2022–23. The share who reported being behind on bills rose from 5% to 6% (2.1 million to 2.5 million).

• Part of the difference is likely to relate to how the official statistics measure incomes and, hence, poverty. Higher energy and food prices

mean that lower-income households and pensioners face a higher inflation rate than average, but this is not captured by the official poverty statistics. Taking account of higher inflation for these households implies that poverty rose by 210,000 more people than implied by official statistics for 2021–22 and 2022–23 (730,000 people rather than 520,000), including 80,000 pensioners.

• In addition, the official statistics do not measure households’ mortgage interest payments directly. Instead, they model them based on average interest rates. This matters when there is a growing spread of interest rates as some households come off their fixed rate: in 2022–23, mismeasurement of mortgage interest payments resulted in the number in poverty being understated by 70,000; as more fixed-term mortgages end, that number is set to rise to 150,000 (based on December 2023 interest rates).

There is evidence that mortgage rate rises have pushed some adults into financial hardship. Adults remortgaging in 2022 were two percentage points more likely to fall into arrears on bills than those with mortgages who had not remortgaged. This suggests that once all households have remortgaged, the number of adults behind on bills could rise by 370,000.

Sam Ray-Chaudhuri, a Research Economist at IFS and an author of the report said:

“Rising mortgage rates have played and are likely to continue to play an important role in many households’ living standards. But, perhaps surprisingly, they are not measured properly in the official income data. This has led to the headline statistics understating the number of people in poverty, something set to get worse in next year’s data.

“Poverty rises have also been understated due to the unequal impact of inflation. At a time when rates of deprivation and food insecurity have risen substantially, poverty statistics that hide the real scale of these increases risk policymakers missing what is truly happening to poverty.”

Peter Matejic, JRF Chief Analyst, said: “This research shows the cost-of-living crisis wasn’t felt equally by everyone. Compared with before the COVID pandemic, many more people, especially those on a lower income, struggled to heat their homes or keep up with their bills.

“One reason lower-income households went without essentials is because they faced a rate of inflation even higher than the headline numbers. High interest rates also saw many households forced into financial hardship after they remortgaged.

“This report raises many questions about whether social security is adequate for the challenges looming over struggling households. The new government can’t wait for growth after years of cuts, caps and freezes to social security have left families without the financial resilience and security they needed to cope with higher prices and costs.”

The Hangover: Labour’s ‘honeymoon’ ends

IT COULDN’T last, and it didn’t. Labour’s honeymoon period after the General Election was over before it began.

Avoidable political missteps included a major one hanging over from the election campaign. They were followed by civil unrest and the resulting fake news peddled on social media and in the right-wing media.

AN UNPOPULAR GOVERNMENT

Also, Labour’s large House of Commons majority has - as Kier Starmer and his ministers are finding out - nothing to do with its popularity with voters.

The hard truth is that almost twothirds of those who bothered to vote did not support Labour at the polls.

Rachel Reeves and other ministers bang on about their dreadful economic inheritance from the Conservatives, and the more the shake-out of the national books continues, the worse it seems. However, both Labour and Conservatives failed to address the obvious during the election campaign. The principal parties’ cowardice over economic policy before July 4 has been laid bare. Promised Conservative tax cuts were never deliverable, and Labour’s promise not to increase taxes has bound it hand and foot.

THE WORsT Is YET TO COME

The most recent statistics show that the outgoing government spent far more of this calendar year’s spending in three months than any government since John Major’s. Meanwhile, once offsetting factors are taken into account, net economic growth is zero while prices continue to rise.

Whatever fat there is in the public finances, the size of the cuts needed to public expenditure to balance the books are politically undeliverable. Even a minor balancing exercise, cutting pensioners’ automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payments regardless of means, produced howls of outrage. Imagine the outcry if Labour decides to do something truly substantial to balance the books.

Labour’s political cowardice and failure to tell the truth during the General Election campaign about how it would fund its pledges during the first two years of government means it risks squandering citizens’ goodwill before it even gets going.

GROWTH Is NOT ENOUGH

The idea that economic growth is the answer and that it can cure all ills is demonstrable nonsense. It was nonsense in 2010, 2015, 2017, 2019, and especially during the 2016 Referendum campaign.

IF growth is the answer, IF the UK’s economy has outgrown other European

economies, and IF we’ve bounced back so much better from the pandemic (as the Conservatives claim), the Conservative defeat on July 4 is all but inexplicable.

Except it is explicable. Economic growth is not spread evenly throughout the UK or across all sectors of the economy. Hammering on about how well the UK is doing when its citizens are demonstrably worse off than they were when you entered government fourteen years before speaks to a collective delusion among senior Conservatives, which easily explains their defeat.

Meaningful growth is limited to London and the South East of England, with Northern Ireland and Bristol and the South West of England not far behind. For the last decade and a half, the rest of the UK bailed out the folly of the City of London and its casino capitalism speculators that crashed the economy in 2008.

The rest of the UK, including Wales, is bumping along the bottom in statistical territory where the margin of error in forecasts is the difference between marginal and zero economic growth.

No wonder people are angry and disillusioned. No wonder they’re turning to glib blowhards who wrap themselves and their hatefulness in the Union Jack.

NO APPETITE FOR MEANINGFUL CHANGE

The absence of clear, consistent, long-term industrial and economic planning - Labour’s wishful thinking on those topics sounds no less barking than the Conservatives’ wing-and-a-prayer plans - and the structural weaknesses of the UK economy mean that the scale of the economic reset now needed is so huge and far-reaching that no government could hope to get it through Parliament, even with 411 seats out of 650. The changes needed are too radical and too long-term and begin with hard and politically unpopular choices about what to ditch, what to keep, and what to reform.

And the process would start with the so-called “grown-ups” risking some grown-up conversations with each other and the public about pain and gain.

Political parties seldom engage in those conversations. The electorate’s response to Theresa May’s plans to do something about social care, a topic which governments have ducked since time immemorial, is a salutary lesson for politicians who dare address systemic problems in public service provision and

its funding.

WG DROPs MANIFEsTO PROMISES

Funding is something that will be far less in the coming years than the Welsh Government hoped. Political reality means the easy poses of perpetual opposition to Westminster will whither on the vine. We are entering a new phase of Labour government in Wales, one in which the expectations drummed up over the last fourteen years of a Conservative government in Westminster vanish in the morning mist or are firmly kicked into the long grass.

As it is, Labour in Wales spent the months before the election and the weeks since dumping its 2021 Senedd manifesto after head office made it clear that it wasn’t going to play ball.

For example, last week, Welsh ministers announced a commission to examine the devolution of justice and policing to the Welsh Government That’ll be the third. And it’ll be as big a waste of public money as the first two. It also reneges on a manifesto commitment to press for the implementation of justice and policing’s devolution based on the Thomas Commission’s findings made in its last manifesto (page 66, if you want to check).

Jo Stevens said “no” to that before the General Election campaign. The Welsh Secretary clearly regards it as a trivial matter that is not worth spending political capital on.

The same has happened to Council Tax reform, “billions” from HS2 money, changes to the school year, and adjustments to the funding formula for Wales to one based on the amount of money required to address Wales’s needs.

WHERE TO PLACE THE BLAME

The much-vaunted idea of two Labour governments at either end of the M4 working in partnership has never appeared more like Labour MSs bending over a barrel while Labour ministers and MPs take turns to beat the insolence out of them.

By the next Senedd election in 2026, Labour will have been in government in Wales for twenty-seven years. Its legislative achievements are largely negligible and, where consequential, have been ill-thought-through and chaotically implemented.

Wales has worse housing, poor health outcomes, increasing poverty, a creaking education system, failing public services, and an NHS whose staff Labour ministers use like human shields to deflect criticism of its dismal performance.

By 2026, Labour in Wales must point to something more than fond fellow feeling between Cabinet ministers in Cardiff Bay and those in Westminster.

Election pledges: Reeves’s promises restrict Labour’s room for manoeuvre

Big wind: Won’t replace big employers like Tata Steel

SEND yOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

s & NOTICE s

PICTuRE OF THE WEEK!

A MORAL PLANE LOWER THAN THAT OF OUR CLOSEST EVOLUTIONARy RELATIVES

DEAR SIR

IN THE aftermath of World War II, successive British generations, despite the country’s economic challenges, upheld a belief in government support for every child. This principle remained largely unchallenged until the Conservative government under Cameron and Osborne introduced legislation that removed state benefits for third and subsequent children in British families.

While Conservatives maintained benefits for the first two children, implicitly acknowledging the importance of such support, they justified the change by arguing that it would discourage poorer families from having more than two children. In contrast, wealthier families, unaffected by these cuts, could continue to have as many children as they wished. This policy, therefore,

disproportionately targeted and penalized the poor.

One could argue that if the Conservatives were truly committed to this policy of limiting family size among the poor, they might have taken even more draconian measures. However, rather than adopting extreme measures, they opted for a subtler, though equally troubling, approach: depriving children of essential support as a means to influence adult behavior.

From an ethical standpoint, this policy raises serious concerns. Humans, unlike chimpanzees, possess a moral compass that allows us to discern right from wrong. To intentionally starve children as a means of coercion is a profound moral failing—arguably worse than any drastic alternative.

In their choice to implement such a policy, the Conservatives have, in effect, opted to operate on a moral plane lower than that of our closest evolutionary relatives. Yet, disturbingly, millions continue to support this approach.

NEVILLE WEsTERMAN

yOUR DOG CAN HELP BEAT BOWEL CANCER

DEAR SIR

In 2022 I lost my amazing dad, Trevor, to bowel cancer.

The moment I heard he had died, I felt like my world had been turned upside down. I missed everything about him: his sarcasm, his daft jokes, and all his quirky stories.

I was angry and lost. That’s when I started following Bowel Cancer UK and learned about their fundraising challenges, including Walkies Together.

Walkies Together asks you and your furry friend to walk 43 miles across September in support of the 43,000 people who are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year in the UK.

For the past few years, I’ve taken part with my cocker spaniel, Mickey. We love walking and exploring new places and even my young daughter can get involved. The challenge has helped me to focus my energy into something positive, and it

means I can raise awareness of the disease so other families don’t have to do through what mine has.

Walkies Together is perfect for all ages and abilities. It’s a way for us to show support for those undergoing treatment, to remember loved ones we have lost, and to raise funds to go towards vital services and lifesaving research.

With you and your pooch’s help we can stride into action to save lives. So please, join me and sign up for Walkies Together today and receive a free dog bandana: fundraise. bowelcanceruk.org.uk/ WALKIES-24-P

CASSIE

Milky Way at StruMblehead lighthouSe - adriaN PaCkiNgtoN

Death Notices

A NN Wy N DAVIES

DAVIES Ann Wyn Clunderwen Peacefully on Monday, 11th August, at home with the family, Wyn of Erwyn, Clunderwen. Beloved wife of the late Eric dear mother of Aubrey, Howel, Lorna and Ruth, respected motherin-law, loving grandmother and great-grandmother, and cherished sister. Funeral Service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Friday, 23rd August at 1.45p.m. Family flowers only. Donations if so desired towards Palliative Care Team, Withybush Hospital or The Paul Sartori Foundation, received by Ken Davies & Sons Funeral Directors, Clunderwen. Tel: 10437 563319

WALTER R ODERICK M ORRIS

MORRIS Walter Roderick Tenby (Formerly of Flemington) Following a short illness, the death occurred peacefully at home on Sunday 11th August of Mr Walter Roderick Morris, aged 73 years of Narberth Road, Tenby, formerly of Flemington, St. Florence. Walter leaves to mourn his wife Jocelyn, sons William and Jonathan, daughters-in-law Hannah and Henrietta, grandchildren Robin, Rupert and Ivor. A strictly private cremation will take place at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. The family would like to invite everyone to a reception at Cardeeth, Cresselly,

SA68 0TS on Wednesday 28th August at 12.30pm The funeral arrangements are being conducted by E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 (01834) 831876 & 21, Main Street, Pembroke (01646) 682680

D ENISE M ARy C ALLANH ULME

CALLAN HULME Denise Mary Pembroke The death occurred suddenly but peacefully at home on Monday 12th August of Mrs Denise Mary Callan Hulme, affectionately known as ‘Den’, aged 77 years of Montgomery Close, Pembroke, formerly of Riverview, Hundleton. Den will be sadly missed by all her family and many friends. A funeral service will take place at St. Davids Church, Hundleton on Wednesday 28th August at 1.45pm followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3.15pm. A request from the family for people attending to wear comfortable clothes. There will be family flowers only with donations, if so desired for Greenacres Animal Rescue and Pembrokeshire Homeless c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors 21, Main Street, Pembroke) 01646 682680 or Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth 01834 831876.

I DWAL E VANS

EVANS Idwal Peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Monday 12th

August Idwal Evans of Haverfordwest aged 81 years. Beloved husband of the late Fay, much loved father, grandfather and great grandfather, he will be sadly missed by all who cared for him. The funeral service will take place on Saturday 31st August, 11:00am at Bethesda Baptist Church, Haverfordwest followed by interment at Pope Hill Cemetery. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to the Wales Air Ambulance may be sent c/o Mr Alan Evans, Primrose Lodge, Honeyborough Road, Honeyborough, SA73 1RF. Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418.

I AN S TUART S WIFT

SWIFT lan Stuart Peacefully on Saturday 10th August at Withybush Hospital, aged 80 years of Milford Haven and formerly of Davyhulme. Devoted husband of Carole, dearly loved father to Rebecca & Elizabeth, father in law of Steve & lan and adored grandfather to Olivia, Alex, Abby, Jamie, William & Harry. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 27th August at 12 noon at Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven. Family flowers only, donations if desired may be sent to Great Ormond Street, Hospital, GOSH Charity, 40 Bernard Street, London, WC1N 1LE. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth

Street, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

F REDERICK DAVID K EEN

KEEN Frederick David Of Johnston The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Friday 9th August of Mr. Frederick David Keen, aged 65 years of The Windsor Hotel, Johnston. Affectionately known as Fred, he was the devoted partner of Kathy, beloved father and father-in-law to Joanne & Daniel and dear grandfather of Joshua & Alfie. He will be sadly missed by all who loved and knew him. The funeral service will take place on Friday 30th August at 10.45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Floral tributes welcome. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

M ARy J OHN E IDDWEN

EIDDWEN Mary John Ashleigh, Tufton Suddenly but peacefully on Thursday 15th August at Withybush Hospital, Eiddwen of Ashleigh, Tufton. Beloved wife of the late Jimmy and a much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother. On going to press, funeral arrangements have not been finalised. Further enquiries to Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard. Tel - 01348 873250.

sERvICEs

CARAVANS

CAR PARTS CARPENTRy

CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHy

CLEARANCES ELECTRICAL

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

PODIATRy

SCRAP METAL

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

STORAGE TANKS

SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE

TECHNOLOGy AND COMPUTERS

TRAILERS

VAN CONVERSIONS WINDOWS

Team GB takes 215 to Paris TeamGB’s youngest

GREAT BRITAIN has announced a team of 215 athletes for the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, marking a record level of female representation.

The Paralympic Games, scheduled to take place from 28th August to 8th September, will see women make up 46 per cent of the British team. Penny Briscoe, the Chef de Mission, expressed her enthusiasm: “I am absolutely delighted to confirm that 215 athletes will compete for ParalympicsGB in Paris this summer.

“In the three years since the delayed Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, I have been privileged to witness outstanding performances by so many of our athletes at world and European level as they worked tirelessly to secure qualification for Paris 2024. Now, that time has come, and we are just days away from the start of what I believe will be a spectacular celebration of para sport at the most competitive Paralympic Games ever, which will be enjoyed by fans both in France and around the world. Paris 2024 promises to be a landmark Paralympic Games, with our highest representation of female athletes ever and a host of talented athletes seeking to achieve personal best performances in one of the world’s great cities.”

Team GB will be competing in 19 of the 22 sports on the Paralympic schedule, with para cycling, canoeing, and rowing fielding

their largest-ever squads.

The total figure of 215 includes guides, pilots, and competition partners, with the team featuring 81 debutants and 49 Paralympic champions. Among them is cyclist Dame Sarah Storey, Britain’s most decorated Paralympian, who has won 17 gold medals and will be competing in her ninth consecutive Games. The youngest competitor is 13-year-old swimmer Iona Winnifrith, one of 14 teenagers on the team. The eldest is 54-year-old para canoe multiple medallist Jeanette Chippington, who will be attending her eighth Games.

Briscoe also highlighted the significance of the newcomers: “More than a third of the athletes in the ParalympicsGB team will make their Games debuts in Paris. I am proud of the support these athletes – as well as our experienced Paralympians – will receive from the network of staff both in the UK and in France, who have been working tirelessly to ensure ParalympicsGB is best prepared both on and off the field of play.

“With Paris just a short journey across the Channel, I know many fans, friends, and family will travel to France to support the team and enjoy the action in the many iconic venues that the city has to offer.”

At the previous Games in Tokyo, Britain finished second on the medals table, behind China, with a total of 124 medals, comprising 41 gold, 38 silver, and 45 bronze.

IONA WINNIFRITH will make her Paralympic debut at the Paris Paralympics after an impressive start to 2024 which includes becoming a double European Champion at just 13-years-old.

Her maiden international championships on the British team witnessed Winnifrith winning European titles in the SB7 100m Breaststroke and SM7 200m Individual Medley, in addition to a S7 50m Butterfly bronze in Madeira.

Tonbridge-born Winnifrith preceded her international debut with a multi-classification 100m Breaststroke British title at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships in London. She was first introduced to swimming when sitting watching her brothers train at Tonbridge SC, and the club invited Winnifrith to join as the youngest member in the learn to swim section at the age of five.

Away from the pool Winnifrith has two dogs who love playing in the garden and going on walks, while she additionally is a member of the local youth theatre, performing in plays and also school productions.

Haverfordwest’s Jodie Grinham makes Team Gb

Top of the league!

IN a dramatic clash at the Carling Oval on Saturday evening, Haverfordwest County AFC continued their flawless start to the JD Cymru Premier season with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Caernarfon Town. Owain Jones emerged as the match-winner, netting a stoppage-time goal that sparked wild celebrations among the travelling Bluebirds supporters.

The match, broadcast live on Sgorio, saw both teams locked in a tense battle, with few clearcut chances in the first half. Haverfordwest’s best opportunity came when Kyle McCarthy’s pinpoint free-kick found Ben Ahmun, whose header narrowly missed the target.

After a goalless first half, the game burst into life in the final 20 minutes. The Bluebirds broke the deadlock with a well-crafted goal. A long ball upfield was expertly controlled by Ben Fawcett, who laid it off to Iori Humphries. Humphries then delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to

Corey Shephard, who squared it to an unmarked Ahmun, allowing him to slot home from close range, giving Haverfordwest a 1-0 lead.

However, the joy was short-lived as Caernarfon Town responded almost immediately. A ball into the area fell to Matty Jones, who controlled it before firing a leftfooted shot into the bottom corner, leveling the score at 1-1 and setting up a nerve-wracking finale.

With momentum on their side, the hosts pressed for a winner, but Haverfordwest’s defense, marshaled by the experienced McCarthy, stood firm. As the game entered stoppage time, it seemed destined to end in a draw. But Haverfordwest had other plans.

In the dying moments, Ben Ahmun broke into the left side of the area and, with precision timing, delivered a cross to Owain Jones. Jones, showing great composure, directed his left-footed shot into the net, securing his first league goal for the club and sealing a memorable 2-1 victory.

The result lifts Haverfordwest

Rees-Zammit kicks off

LOUIs REEs-ZAMMIT played his second American football match on Saturday during a preseason game against the Detroit Lions, where he continued to be tested in various roles.

The 23-year-old, who made his debut at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, impressed once again, notably returning a kickoff for 27 yards, serving as a gunner on the punt team, and receiving online recognition for his pass protection efforts late in the game.

However, fans familiar with Rees-Zammit’s rugby union career have been puzzled by his new responsibilities, particularly his role in taking kickoffs during these preseason matches.

County to the top of the JD Cymru Premier standings, the only team to win both of their opening matches. Manager Tony Pennock, who made one change to the side that defeated Connah’s Quay Nomads 1-0 in their season opener, praised his team’s resilience and fitness, highlighting their ability to perform until the final whistle.

“This team has shown incredible spirit and determination,” Pennock remarked after the match. “To come to a place like Caernarfon and get a result like this, especially in such dramatic fashion, speaks volumes about the character in this squad.”

The Bluebirds will now turn their attention to their next fixture, eager to maintain their momentum and continue their pursuit of success in the JD Cymru Premier. For the passionate Haverfordwest supporters, the journey back to Pembrokeshire was filled with jubilation, as they celebrated another step forward in what promises to be an exciting campaign.

Rees-Zammit, renowned for his skill with the ball in hand during his rugby career, was never utilised as a place kicker, despite his comfort in kicking the ball from hand. This shift in duties has understandably raised questions among those who followed his rugby journey.

The reasoning behind this decision lies in the specific skills a rugby player brings to American football, particularly in comparison to an NFL kicker, with tackling being a key factor. “It’s less about LRZ making the kick and more about him being there as an extra person to tackle the return guy,” explained The Podcast Nobody Asked For on X. “Most kickers wouldn’t do that, or at least not as effectively as a rugby convert. It basically gives them an extra player on defence during returns.”

Although the decision may seem unusual, there were early indications that Rees-Zammit would be utilised as a kicker, as far back as May. Assistant head coach and special teams coordinator Dave Toub commented, “Louis has done above and beyond what I expected. He can kick field goals, he can kick off, he can be a kickoff guy for us. He’s every bit as good as Justin [Reid] is at moving the football and things like that on kickoffs. And he’s really working hard at the returner job. I’ve got him in there as a starter right now so he gets as many reps as he can. He’s a student of the game — he comes in after practice, he wants to be great, he’s a great athlete.”

Local football league kicks off once again

THE highly anticipated start of the Pembrokeshire First Division season did not disappoint, with a flurry of goals, solid defensive displays, and a few upsets highlighting the opening day.

Reigning champions Goodwick United began their title defense with a hard-fought win, while newly promoted sides faced tough lessons in their first matches at this level.

Goodwick United 1-0 Carew

Goodwick United kicked off their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over a resilient Carew side. The match was a test of patience for the reigning champions, who found the breakthrough late in the game thanks to a well-taken goal by Rhys Dalling. The defending champions showed glimpses of the form that won them the title last season, but Carew’s organised defence kept them at bay for much of the match.

Hakin United 5-0 Merlins Bridge

Hakin United sent a clear message to the rest of the division with a dominant 5-0 demolition of old rivals Merlins Bridge. Goals from Mark Jones, Leon Luby, Alfie Stotter, Shane Walsh, and Mason Dolling completing the rout. The Vikings were in control from the first whistle, displaying an attacking verve

that will undoubtedly make them one of the teams to watch this season. Merlins Bridge, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly after this heavy defeat.

Kilgetty 2-0 Pennar Robins

Pennar Robins, one of the summer’s busiest clubs in the transfer market, were handed a sobering 2-0 loss by Kilgetty. Despite their new signings, Pennar struggled to break down a well-organized Kilgetty side. Morgan

Scourfield and Jordan Gorman both found the back of the net for Kilgetty, who put in a composed performance to secure all three points. Pennar’s newlook side will need time to gel, but this was a wake-up call for the Robins.

Milford United 7-0 Herbrandston

It was a day to forget for newly promoted Herbrandston as they were

dismantled 7-0 by a local rivals Milford United. Milford’s Liam Parks was the star of the show, netting twice, while Liam Parr added a penalty, and Tyler Sheil, Jacob Horn, Liam Davies, and Cameron Lees also got on the scoresheet. The result was a reminder of the step up in quality Herbrandston will face this season, while Milford United will be delighted with their clinical display.

Monkton Swifts 1-1 Clarbeston Road

Monkton Swifts and Clarbeston Road shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw that could have gone either way. Dylan Davies and Richard Bevan‘s goals ensured it was a point for both sides. The match was evenly contested, with both teams showing promise for the season ahead.

St Ishmaels 1-2 Tenby

Newly promoted St Ishmaels faced a tough start to life in the First Division, going down 2-1 to Tenby. Brennan Devonald gave St Ishmaels hope with a goal, but Tenby’s Scott Ferney and Fraser Finley turned the game around, securing a well-earned victory for the visitors. St Ishmaels will take heart from their performance, but Tenby’s experience ultimately saw them over the line.

Pembrokeshire Division One cricket round-up

LAsT week’s action in the First Division delivered yet another thrilling chapter in what has been one of the most exciting seasons in recent history. Carew secured a commanding victory over local rivals Cresselly, closing the gap to within eight points of league leaders Neyland and setting up a tantalising title showdown next week.

Meanwhile, St Ishmaels continued their impressive ascent up the table with another vital win, while Haverfordwest’s triumph over Whitland kept their survival hopes alive. Reigning champions Neyland faced a stern test but managed to maintain their lead with a narrow win over Lawrenny.

Carew Dominate Cresselly to Close in on Title

Carew sent a strong message to their title rivals with a resounding 197run victory over Cresselly. Batting first, Carew amassed an imposing 286 for 6, led by James Hinchliffe’s unbeaten 63. Key contributions from Tim Hicks (56), Nick Davies (41*), and a brisk 43 from Shaun Whitfield ensured a daunting total for the hosts. Cresselly’s bowlers

struggled, with only Charlie Arthur managing respectable figures of 2 for 39.

In reply, Cresselly were dismantled by young Iori Hicks, who claimed a stunning 5 for 15 as the visitors were skittled for just 89. Hinchliffe capped off a superb all-round performance by taking 3 for 22, sealing a dominant win for Carew.

Neyland Survive Lawrenny Scare to Retain Top Spot

Neyland clung to the top of the table with a nerve-wracking 2-wicket win over Harrison Allen finalists Lawrenny. Chasing 191 for victory, Neyland’s innings was anchored by Dai Davies (37) and Ross Hardy (33), but it was the 39 extras conceded by Lawrenny that proved decisive in the end. Earlier, Lawrenny had posted 190 for 7, with steady contributions from Harry Thomas (30) and Ryan Morton (25). Alan Webster was the pick of Neyland’s bowlers, taking 3 for 63. Despite a valiant effort from Lawrenny’s attack, which reduced Neyland to 162 for 8, Sean Hannon (19*) and Lewis Page (15*) held their nerve to see their side

home with three balls to spare.

St Ishmaels Continue Resurgence with Crucial Win Over Llangwm

St Ishmaels continued their resurgence with a vital victory over relegation rivals Llangwm. Batting first, Llangwm were bowled out for 132, with Matthew Kiff’s 45 standing out. Jonathan Pawlett was Tish’s star with the ball, claiming 4 for 35.

Tish chased down the target with six wickets in hand, thanks to a composed 51 not out from Phil Llewellyn. Pawlett also contributed with the bat, scoring 40, as Tish secured their second consecutive win. The defeat leaves Llangwm in dire straits, languishing in second-bottom place, ten points adrift of Tish, who have now moved clear of the relegation zone.

Haverfordwest Secure Crucial Win Over Whitland

Haverfordwest bolstered their survival hopes with a crucial 29-run victory over Whitland. Batting first, Town posted 198 all out, with Mikey Jones

top-scoring with a vital 60. In response, Whitland struggled to build momentum and were restricted to 169. Adam James bowled with pace and precision, taking three key wickets as Whitland’s batsmen failed to fire. The win all but secures Town’s place in the division, while Whitland remain mired in the lower half of the table.

Saundersfoot Edge Narberth

in

High-Scoring Thriller

Saundersfoot claimed a 37-run victory over Narberth in a high-scoring encounter that saw both teams amass significant totals. Batting first, Saundersfoot reached 208 for 7, with Simon Stanford (48) and Sam Franklin (40) leading the charge. Loui Davies was the pick of Narberth’s bowlers, taking 3 for 24.

Narberth responded with a spirited effort, as Jamie McCormack (48) and Ben Quartermaine (32) kept them in the hunt. However, they ultimately fell short, being bowled out for 171. Nick Cope’s 3 for 16 and Sam Franklin’s 2 for 12 were instrumental in Saundersfoot’s victory, leaving Narberth on the brink of relegation.

Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League Table

RESULTS 17/08/2024

Carew (286-6) beat Cresselly (89) by 197 runs

Lawrenny (190-7) lost to Neyland (191-8) by 2 wkts

Llangwm (132) lost to St Ishmaels (136-4) by 6 wkts

Saundersfoot (208-7) beat Narberth (171) by 37 runs

Whitland (169-9) lost to Haverfordwest (198) by 29 runs

Burton (243-5) beat Pembroke (242-9) by 5 wkts

Herbrandston (184-3) beat Carew II (181-9) by 7 wkts

Hook (65-3) beat Pembroke Dock (65) by 7 wkts

Johnston (92-3) beat Lamphey (88) by 7 wkts

Llechryd (82) beat Llanrhian (63) by 19 runs

Cresselly II (172) lost to Burton II (176-5) by 5 wkts

Haverfordwest II (173-5) beat Fishguard (172-8) by 5 wkts

Narberth II (0) ab v Hook II (0)

Neyland II (129) lost to Stackpole (188-6) by 59 runs

St Ishmaels II (151-9) lost to Kilgetty (153-6) by 4 wkts

Carew III (106-2) beat Llangwm II (105) by 8 wkts

Hundleton (123-5) beat Lawrenny II (122) by 5 wkts

Llanrhian II (143-6) beat Llechryd II (98-9) by 45 runs

Pembroke D II (99) lost to Saundersfoot II (100-5) by 5 wkts

Pembroke II (179-8) beat Laugharne (177-7) by 2 wkts

Crymych (191-4) beat Whitland II (42) by 149 runs

Haverfordwest III (107-7) beat Cresselly III (106) by 3 wkts

Lamphey II (75) lost to Haverfordwest IV (80-7) by 3 wkts

Llechryd III (0) w/o v Whitland III (0)

Pembroke III (93) lost to Hundleton II (116) by 23 runs

FIXTURES 24/08/2024

Haverfordwest v Cresselly

Llangwm v Saundersfoot

Narberth v Whitland

Neyland v Carew

St Ishmaels v Lawrenny

Carew II v Hook

Johnston v Burton

Lamphey v Herbrandston

Llanrhian v Pembroke Dock

Pembroke v Llechryd

Burton II v Narberth II

Cresselly II v St Ishmaels II

Fishguard v Stackpole

Hook II v Neyland II

Kilgetty v Haverfordwest II

Laugharne v Carew III

Lawrenny II v Llanrhian II

Llechryd II v Llangwm II

Pembroke Dock II v Hundleton

Saundersfoot II v Pembroke II

Herbrandston II v Crymych

Whitland II v Neyland III

Haverfordwest IV v Whitland III

Hundleton II v Kilgetty II

Pembroke III v Lamphey II

TOP OF THE LEAGUE!