The Pembrokeshire Herald 05/04/2024

‘Wake up call’ for NHS worker

A PEMBROKESHIRE

NHS worker has been sentenced after being found guilty of driving his SUV vehicle when he was almost four times over the legal drink-drive limit.

Police received reports that Robert Preen, 39, of Law Street, Pembroke Dock, had been seen driving near his home address on the afternoon of May 20, 2023.

“At approximately 4.40pm police received information that a male appeared to be drunk,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“He was seen stumbling, and then he entered a vehicle and drove off, hitting a kerb.”

As a result of information supplied to the police, officers traced a red Vauxhall Grandland to Preen’s home address in Law Street, Pembroke Dock.

However Preen denied being the driver.

“He initially said it was his partner [who was driving], but he was arrested on suspicion of being unfit to be the driver,” said Ms Baker.

Subsequent breathalyser tests confirmed that Preen had 116 mcg of alcohol in his breath. The legal limit is 35.

Following his trial at Haverfordwest magistrates court on March 28, Preen was found guilty of drinkdriving.

“He was convicted, but he still maintains that he drank alcohol after returning home,” said probation officer Julie Norman.

“He’d had an argument earlier that day with his partner, he drank one glass of wine and then his partner left. The defendant decided

to go and see a friend but he then left the property and drove back. That’s when he was reported.”

Ms Norman added that when he arrived home, Preen claimed he had found some vodka in his garden shed, which he drank.

She said that Preen, who has no previous convictions, is currently employed with the NHS.

“He’s admitted that he has an issue with alcohol and, in the past, has sought assistance with the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Advisory Service [DDAS],” she said. “But he’s still managing to hold down a full time job.”

Preen was ordered to pay a total of £1,322, comprising a £588 fine, £620 costs and a £114 surcharge. He was disqualified from driving for 24 months. He was also sentenced to a 12-month community order which includes 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days. During this time he will be referred to DDAS.

“You’ll go from this court knowing that you’ve brought this upon yourself,” said presiding magistrate Mary Smith. “I hope that you learn from this experience and won’t find yourself back here again. This is your wake-up call.”

Collision which shut A40 fatal incident involving pedestrian

POLICE have confirmed that they are investigating a road traffic collision which occurred at about 4.45am, Monday 1st April 2024.

A car and a pedestrian were involved in the collision on the A40 eastbound just before Carmarthen.

Sadly the male pedestrian died at the scene. Next of kin has been advised and is being supported by specialist officers.

The A40, eastbound and westbound between Carmarthen and St Clears, was closed and reopened at about 1pm.

Man steals a car after downing ‘several beers

A COURT has heard how a 21-year-old man downed ‘several beers and a bottle of rum’ at a Pembrokeshire nightclub before driving off in a Toyota Aygo without the owner’s consent.

Bryan John entered the Out nightclub in Pembroke Dock on the evening of December 9, 2023.

“He drank several beers and a bottle of rum and when he left the club, it was raining,” the probation service told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“He saw a vehicle which was unattended and insecure, with the keys left in the ignition, so he went inside it for shelter,”

“He then drove the car from Pembroke Dock to the Silverdale Lodge in Johnston, but he has no idea why he did this.”

Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker said that a staff member who was on duty at the Silverdale Lodge heard a vehicle drive into the lodge car park at around 4am.

“He saw Bryan John get out, and when he spoke to him, he could see that he was under the influence of alcohol,” she said.

“The staff member contacted the police and when officers arrived, they checked the vehicle’s information and discovered that it was stolen.”

John was arrested and taken to Haverfordwest police station where he was breathalysed and found to have 52 mcg of alcohol in his system. The legal limit is 35.

He pleaded guilty to taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent; driving over the legal drink-drive limit; driving otherwise than in accordance with a driving licence and using the vehicle on a public road without third party insurance.

John was legally represented in court by solicitor Mr Tom Lloyd.

“My client had gone out that night, he’d had too much to drink and he did something really silly,” he said. “I can’t explain why he did it, but he knows that this kind of behaviour isn’t going to assist him in the future.”

John was sentenced to an 18-month community order during which he must carry out 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 100 hours of unpaid work. He was disqualified from driving for 12 months. He must also pay £85 court costs and a £114 surcharge.

“You’re very fortunate that nothing worse happened that night, before you were arrested,” commented presiding magistrate Mary Smith when passing sentence. “This is a wake up call to stop behaving like a kid.”

Hywel Dda under ‘unprecedented pressure’

IN an urgent communication released last week, the Hywel Dda Health Board has issued a critical alert regarding the overwhelming strain on Emergency Departments (A&E) across the region, marking Easter Sunday (Mar 31) as a day of significant challenge.

The health authority is earnestly appealled to the public to assist in alleviating the pressure on these vital services by judiciously selecting the most appropriate healthcare options for their urgent needs. This plea comes in light of an escalating situation that has seen emergency units grappling with an influx of patients requiring immediate care.

Individuals feeling unwell or in doubt about the severity of their symptoms were strongly encouraged to first utilise the online symptom checker available at NHS 111 Wales or to contact NHS 111 for guidance on the necessary steps to

take. This service aims to streamline the process of seeking medical help, ensuring that emergency departments are reserved for those in critical condition.

For those experiencing urgent mental health issues, the health board advised calling 111 and selecting option 2 to access advice and support from mental health professionals, available 24/7.

The health board underscored the importance of visiting an Emergency Department solely in cases of lifethreatening illnesses or serious injuries. Conditions warranting such immediate attention include severe breathing difficulties, intense pain or bleeding, chest pain indicative of a possible stroke, and major trauma injuries, for example, those resulting from vehicular accidents.

For less severe injuries,

the public were directed towards Minor Injury Units, which are equipped to handle adults and children over 12 months of age. These units deal with minor wounds, burns or scalds, insect bites, and minor injuries to limbs, heads, or faces, including the removal of foreign bodies from the nose or ear.

Additionally, the health board highlighted the role of community pharmacies in offering walk-in, common ailment, or triage and treat services without the need for an appointment. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to provide accessible healthcare options to the community, thereby reducing unnecessary visits to emergency departments.

The health board asked families of patients who are ready for discharge but are awaiting homecare and community health support to consider facilitating their loved ones’ return home, if feasible. This gesture can significantly expedite the discharge process and free

up much-needed hospital beds.

The Hywel Dda Health Board extended its gratitude to the public for their cooperation and support during the difficult period.

Responding to the news that health bosses in West Wales have made another appeal for people to avoid A&E departments due to “significant pressure” being placed on staff, Russell Geroge MS, Shadow Health Minister, said: “It is far too often that news breaks of A&E departments suffering from extreme pressures in Welsh hospitals.

“Our Welsh NHS is critically understaffed which all boils down to 25 years of Labour mismanagement in Wales.

“The Labour Government would rather spend £120 million sending 36 more politicians to Cardiff Bay than reverse their real terms cut to our health service to support hospitals across Wales.”

Tom Sinclair

Editor@herald.email

County mourns the loss of a beloved surgeon

THE LOCAL community and beyond came together yesterday, on March 23 to bid farewell to Mr. Athula Withanage, a distinguished Clinical Director and Lead Clinician in General & Vascular Surgery at Withybush Hospital, whose journey ended on the 1st of March 2024.

The funeral service, held at Parc Gwyn Crematorium in Narbeth, was both a somber and a celebratory reflection of his remarkable life and contributions.

Born in Gonagalapura, Sri Lanka, Mr. Withanage’s illustrious career in medicine was marked by his compassionate care,

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surgical expertise, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of surgeons. His approach to medicine and surgery was not just about healing the body but also about nurturing the spirit of his patients and colleagues alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Withanage was a man of profound creativity, making significant strides in both literature and theatre. As an accomplished writer and actor, he shared his talents generously, enriching the cultural fabric of his community.

Motorist dealt ‘life changing’ sentence

A 31-YEAR-OLD motorist has been ordered off the roads for three years after refusing to provide a drugs sample following a previous conviction of drugdriving.

Luke Owen was convicted of driving over the legal drugs limit in May, 2022. This week he returned to the courts to face his second drugdrive related offence within a ten year period.

Owen, of Wayside Close, Simpson Cross, was stopped by officers just before 3pm on March 13 as he drove his Vauxhall Corsa through Haverfordwest.

“He was stopped as a result of information the officers had received that he may have been driving on drugs,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest magistrates this week. “When officers explained why he had been stopped, the defendant was initially dismissive and refused to provide a sample. He was just about to get arrested when he agreed to give a sample that was positive for cannabis.”

Owen was taken to a police custody suite where he was asked to give further blood

tests for drugs analysis.

But Ms Baker said that upon his arrival, Owen persistently refused too provide the tests.

This week Owen pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

“He didn’t realise how serious it would be, by failing to provide a specimen,” said probation officer Julie Norman.

Meanwhile Owen’s solicitor, Tom Lloyd, said the conviction would have a major impact on his day-to-day life.

“Losing his licence is going to be lifechanging,” he said. “His income is going to suffer considerably as he currently has a good employment record with a local cleaning company. But being unable to drive to and from work is going to be very difficult. This is going to be a huge punishment for him.”

Owen was disqualified from driving for three years. He was given a 12-month community order which will include ten rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 surcharge.

Images: Martin Cavaney

Pembrokeshire to save more Gazan families

Is the elephant too scary to look at? Do we feel too weak to shoo it out? Will it saunter off when it’s finished its current meal? Should we be on its side because of its power? Will it attack us if we point at it?

A personal and community story

by Vicky Moller

I was born in the shadow of the holocaust and WW2. A Never Again mood spurred a (temporary) era of (superficial) peace and (partial) international unity. We believed in Western Civilisation. It produced unprecedented global accords: The United Nations, European Union, Geneva convention rules for warfare - radical thinking for the age when humans grew up, we believed. Here’s an example:

The Geneva Conventions produced the Convention for the Amelioration of the Wounded in Time of War which provided for (1) the immunity from capture and destruction of all establishments for the treatment of wounded and sick soldiers and their personnel, (2) the impartial reception and

treatment of all combatants, (3) the protection of civilians providing aid to the wounded, and (4) the recognition of the Red Cross symbol as a means of identifying persons and equipment covered by the agreement.

The elephant has trampled this to smithereens. The world’s governments stand by limply, feeding the elephant on demand. Being an offspring of the Holocaust and Never Again I could not betray my Jewish ancestors and do nothing, I was not made that way. My father and his sisters deeply believed in world accord and peace. They are dead but I am still alive.

I walked around in circles in the kitchen, frantic to find the thing I could do that was relevant and impactful. It came to me, the answer was outside my window. I am in Wales, a small country with a big heart. Our Croeso teams had brought community sponsorship of refugees to Wales where, second to Canada, it spread faster than anywhere else in the world. What we had done was to counter war with love, using the thing that Wales holds dear, Community, where everyone is included. This could be the tool to unpick the dehumanising that is essential to mass killing.

Accepting that no-one can help everyone, but everyone can help someone, we asked UK Government to allow community sponsorship for some Gazan families. Stephen Crabb said ‘I don’t want any incendiary elements coming to the UK or to Pembrokeshire ’ Which I took to mean ‘they are all terrorists, so no way’. I was told later he represents

the Likud party in UK parliament with the powerful Conservative Friends of Israel. His view would be the government’s position.

We could work to change this, but small as we are, it would take time. We could not wait while people died in droves, we could sponsor some families remotely, to reach safety in any country. This is what we did, saving two families with small children, and another with older children who are on their way to safety. Now we are on a mission to save a child, the only survivor of his Gazan extended family.

Dr. Yousef al Khalib was a consultant in Glangwili, now working in Liverpool heart hospital. Another doctor in Cardiff put us in touch. Yousef’s voice was shaking as he told me how days ago, on 15 th March his father, mother, brothers and sisters and their children were all wiped out in an Israeli bombing, all but one. 13 year old Amer, a nephew who was close to him survived with fractured skull and burns.

Now Dr. Yousef, too distraught to work, has one aim in life, to get his nephew to a safe hospital and afterwards to join their family.

“My beloved nephew needs to be urgently evacuated from Gaza to safety in the UK so he can start a new life with me and my small family, so I can provide him with everything he has had taken from him. I can’t replace it, but I can give him the emotional, family, and financial support he doesn’t have. Please help Amer!”

In Gaza we heard he had to lie on the floor, and no hospital is safe, doctors and hospitals are targets.

We sought help for him: Lord Dubs, Children not Numbers, the Egyptian embassy are actively helping. We told him to publicise his story. He did, and in two days £20,000 was donated. Amer is not the first orphan whose UK family have tried to rescue them at great cost in money, emotion and time. Not one has succeeded since October. Yet.

The public is bigger than the elephant, it needs to get over the fear, denial, avoidance and walk up and deflate it. After all it’s just a big beast trapped in a situation it cannot see how to exit, with power beyond its capability. We have to help it too. It won’t stop until we do, and we will be on the menu at some stage if we don’t.

Cwtch Pals is a Pembrokeshire mother led group. We are raising money to get a few families to safety including those of doctors.

Cwtch Pals is on Facebook and instagram. We welcome £ pledges, donations and help.

Get in touch for details getfamiliesout@gmail.com 07791 809 810

THERE’S an Israeli war elephant in the room.

Rescued families enjoy life again.

Amer wakes up

Skin grafting

Tower threatens Park’s picturesque landscape

PLANS for a 20-metre-high telecom tower in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park have sparked a wave of opposition from local residents and conservationists. The proposed development by Cornerstone aims to erect a timber-clad telecoms structure opposite the National Trust Car Park in Trehilyn West, Trefasser, a move that has been met with vehement disapproval by the community.

The contentious site is nestled within the Pen Caer Registered

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Historic Landscape, an area celebrated for its natural beauty and historical significance. Flanked by the ancient Iron Age hill forts of Garn Fawr Camp and Garn Fechan Camp, both Scheduled Monuments, and within proximity to two Grade II Listed buildings, the proposed tower’s location has been criticised for its potential impact on the landscape’s heritage and visual appeal. Further concern arises from the tower’s

visibility from the vicinity of John Piper’s cottages, where the renowned 20th-century artist found inspiration for his work. One of Piper’s paintings, depicting Garn Fawr, fetched over £37,000 at a Christie’s auction in 2013, highlighting the area’s cultural and aesthetic value.

Designed to host three antennas and two dishes, along with a suite of supporting equipment, the tower’s introduction is argued by the applicant to have a ‘slight’ and ‘minor’ impact on the historic landscape, a sentiment not shared

by local heritage and conservation authorities. Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, has not objected to the proposal concerning the nearby scheduled monuments. However, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s Building Conservation Officer, Rob Scourfield, has recommended the application be refused, citing the significant detrimental effect on the setting of nearby listed buildings and the overarching landscape of the National Park.

Residents have also

voiced their frustration, citing a lack of consultation and public notice regarding the project. Llandruidion local Jill Rowley lamented the potential visual intrusion in an area famed for its picturesque qualities, pointing out the absence of communication with the community council. Echoing these sentiments, Karen Roden raised concerns over the need for improved mobile coverage versus the sensitivity of Pencaer’s landscape. She highlighted the short window for public

objection and the perceived oversight in consulting with the National Park and local populace.

With the planning application now open for comments on the National Park’s planning portal, the clock is ticking for those wishing to express their views. The case underscores the delicate balance between technological advancement and the preservation of natural and historical landscapes, a debate that continues to resonate across the UK’s protected areas.

Lifeboat launched in false alarm over snorkeler distress call

TENBY’S allweather lifeboat was launched just after 4:30 pm on Wednesday (Mar 27) following concerns for a snorkeler reported to be in difficulty off the coast of Lydstep.

The alert, raised by a member of the public, prompted an immediate reaction from the Tenby Lifeboats RNLI volunteer crew.

The lifeboat crew, supported by the Tenby Coastguard rescue team conducting a shore-based search,

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embarked on a thorough search operation offshore in an effort to locate the snorkeler believed to be in trouble.

Despite the extensive efforts of the rescue teams, the operation concluded without any discovery of a person in distress.

After a comprehensive search of the area yielded no findings and with no

individuals reported missing, authorities determined the incident to be a false alarm.

Consequently, all units involved in the search were stood down and returned to their station.

This incident underscores the readiness and commitment of the RNLI and coastguard teams to respond to potential maritime emergencies, even when such alerts turn out to be unfounded.

Ambitious community safety plan

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority has released its comprehensive Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) 2040, aimed at bolstering safety and service delivery across mid and west Wales. Spearheading the initiative, Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas elucidated the plan’s central objective to enhance the Authority’s service, ensuring the utmost safety for the communities within its jurisdiction.

According to Thomas, the CRMP 2040 has been meticulously formulated to address the myriad risks, threats, and challenges prevalent within the local communities. Through a forward-looking approach that extends to the year 2040, the Authority aims to adeptly manage and mitigate these risks,

thereby safeguarding the well-being of its residents. Emphasising the plan’s adaptable nature, Thomas highlighted its designed flexibility to accommodate the dynamic needs of the community, ensuring the Authority remains responsive to social, environmental, and economic shifts.

Echoing the Chief Fire Officer’s sentiments, Councillor Gwynfor Thomas, Chair of the Fire and Rescue Authority, stressed the importance of continuous investment in the Authority’s personnel and resources. He outlined the establishment of eight pivotal objectives within the CRMP, which are expected to steer the Authority towards delivering an

unparalleled level of service, characterised by efficiency, effectiveness, and global best practices. Councillor Thomas also underscored the commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and collaborative efforts as vital components for enhancing operational excellence and community safety.

In the lead-up to the CRMP’s formulation, the Authority undertook an extensive consultation process, incorporating valuable feedback from community members and stakeholders. This participatory approach enabled the refinement of the plan’s objectives, ensuring they accurately reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.

The Authority has extended its gratitude to all contributors for their insightful feedback, which

Stalking whilst on bail

A PEMBROKESHIRE

gardener has been released from prison after admitting stalking a woman while he was on police bail.

Scott Horton, 40, made repeated visits to the home of his former partner in Harbour Way, Hakin, despite being prevented from doing so by police bail conditions.

“He turned up at her house on March 3 and again on March 8, when the complainant heard his car pulling up and saw his face through the window,” Crown Prosecutor Linda Baker told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“On March 13 she had a number of missed calls from him and on March 14 he turned up at her house once again. Her neighbour sent video evidence of him being present.”

On March 21, Horton was seen turning up at her house at 5am and again at 11.40pm.

Haverfordwest magistrates via a video link from Swansea prison.

“Being remanded in prison, and being a person of previously clean character has forced my client to reflect,” said his solicitor, Tom Lloyd.

“He accepts that his behaviour towards the lady was unacceptable but he knows, 100 per cent, that their relationship is over and he has no desire to see her nor speak to her. He just needs to get out of custody and get on with his life.”

Mr Lloyd informed magistrates that Horton works as a selfemployed landscape gardener.

played a crucial role in shaping the final plan.

The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority is actively seeking further input from the public to refine and improve its service offerings. Community members are encouraged to share their views and suggestions through various channels, including email, telephone, and social media platforms. This initiative underscores the Authority’s commitment to fostering an open, inclusive dialogue with the community it serves.

As the CRMP 2040 sets the stage for a safer future, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority remains dedicated to its vision of excellence in community service, ready to adapt and evolve in its mission to protect and serve.

Horton was remanded in custody on March 30 after originally denying the allegation of stalking when he was brought before Swansea magistrates.

But this week Horton changed his plea to guilty when he appeared before

After considering the mitigation, magistrates allowed Horton to be released on conditional bail. The conditions are that he resides with his parents at Skomer Drive, Milford Haven; he does not enter Hakin; he is electronically monitored daily, between 7pm and 7am and he fully co-operates with the probation service.

Horton will return to Haverfordwest magistrates on April 23 to be sentenced. The adjournment was following the magistrates’ request for an all options probation report.

Tom

Crown Court backlog at a record high, Victims’ Commissioner warns

THE VICTIMS’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, has voiced profound concern over the escalating backlog of cases in the Crown Court, which has surged to a record 67,573 outstanding cases. This latest figure not only signifies a 1% increase from the previous quarter but also marks a staggering 65% rise from pre-pandemic levels and a near double increase since June 2019.

Baroness Newlove, reflecting on the dire statistics, emphasized the intolerable delays victims are facing, often stretching to years, before their cases are heard in court. With 27% of all outstanding cases now pending for over a year, the situation has reached a critical point, resulting in unprecedented strain on victims and the frontline services supporting them.

The duration from the

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receipt to the completion of cases at the Crown Court remains significantly above pre-pandemic figures, showcasing an 82% increase from the end of March 2020 and an 84% rise from the end of June 2019. Specifically troubling is the average completion time for rape cases, which now stands at 393 days, surpassing all previous records and highlighting a 52% increase from before the pandemic.

The Victims’ Commissioner pointed out the growing burden on victim services and the potential for increasing numbers of victims to withdraw from the process due to prolonged wait times. The statistics reveal a 14% victim withdrawal rate post-charge in the latest quarter, coupled with 26% of cases being adjourned on the day of

trial, further exacerbating the challenges faced by those seeking justice.

Baroness Newlove criticized the apparent systemic issues within the judicial process, noting that despite a 4% decrease in

new case volumes, the backlog continues to rise, with completed cases also experiencing a decline. This situation underscores the critical need for systemic reforms to address the inefficiencies

plaguing the court system, ensuring that victims do not continue to suffer from prolonged delays in obtaining justice.

As the Crown Court backlog hits another record high, the call for

urgent action to alleviate the pressure on victims and the judicial system has never been more pressing, with justice delayed increasingly equating to justice denied.

Pembrokeshire set for Long Course Weekend road closures

PEMBROKESHIRE

COUNTY COUNCIL has announced a series of temporary road closures and restrictions to accommodate the eagerly anticipated annual Long Course Weekend. This multifaceted sporting event, a highlight on the South Pembrokeshire calendar, will span from Friday, 21st June, to Sunday, 23rd June 2024, encompassing a swim, cycle sportive, and the Wales Marathon.

The council’s traffic management officer, Kelly Morris, detailed the operational logistics, emphasizing

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the necessity of these measures to ensure public safety and the smooth execution of the events. Notably, the schedule includes the temporary closure of The Croft and a section of the Norton (White Lion Street to The Croft) on Friday evening between 16:30hrs and 18:30hrs.

This decision comes in light of the anticipated spectator turnout for the swim event, with arrangements in place to manage access to properties on The Croft. Building on the success of previous

years, the event’s start and finish points on Saturday and Sunday (22nd and 23rd June) will once again be stationed at the Salterns car park. Moreover, comprehensive road closures will be enacted on a rolling basis for the Marathon on Sunday, 23rd.

Attached to Morris’s announcement was a detailed schedule outlining the roads subject to closures and one-way restrictions over the weekend. The council has committed to implementing these closures in a phased manner, ensuring minimal disruption and the timely reopening of roads post-event.

ANZAC day in Milford Haven

THE Royal British Legion commemorates ANZAC day at the plaque on Hamilton Terrace Milford Haven on April 28th service 11am.

Lt Colonel Warren Coaker from the Australian Army will be attending. Everyone is welcome to attend.

community and has requested that any comments be submitted by Friday, 19th April 2024. This consultative approach reflects the council’s dedication to transparency and community engagement in the planning and execution of significant public events.

The council seeks feedback from the

The Long Course Weekend continues to

be a marquee event for South Pembrokeshire, drawing athletes and spectators from across the UK and beyond. Through careful planning and coordination, Pembrokeshire County Council is committed to ensuring that this year’s event is a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved.

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More Pembrokeshire children in care than ever

A COUNCIL scheme aimed at reducing the number of children in care has failed to achieve its target.

Instead, the number of looked-after children in Pembrokeshire has increased in the last three years.

WG TARGET “ARBITRARY”

In the face of increased demand, reducing the number of children entering care was unachievable.

A Welsh Government target to reduce the number of children in care ran into significantly increased service demand “at the front door”.

A report to the Council’s Social Care Committee states that Cardiff Bay’s use of a crude percentage measure for reduction was “arbitrary” and “a blunt tool”.

PCC decisively took action by consolidating all its ongoing projects and initiatives to ensure effective management. This step established a clear and consistent direction for Children’s Services, making the department’s intentions more assertive and impactful.

Despite that action, Pembrokeshire has more young people in local authority care than everover 260 children.

Despite the ongoing and huge challenges within Children’s Services, the Council has delivered on many of the main projects under its Keeping Families Together Strategy.

The Head of Children’s Services, Darren Mutter, told Committee members that, without the strategy, the number of children in care might be even higher than it is today.

CHILD REFUGEE PROVISION STRETCHES COUNCIL SERVICES

The obligation on Pembrokeshire to accept some unaccompanied child asylum seekers contributed to the increase.

As in England, the Welsh Government considers all unaccompanied children fleeing war, famine, and civil conflict as children in need of care.

The Home Office decides on the dispersal of unaccompanied children into

Driving demand for services: Poverty, Covid, Child Refugees, Cost of Living Crisis

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

each local authority area in England and Wales. Under the scheme, Pembrokeshire has received 23 children.

The principle of accepting child refugees into care settings is uncontroversial and has cross-party support in Westminster and Cardiff Bay. However, both governments are less willing to adequately fund children’s placements.

That means that although service demand has risen, the money available to pay for them has shrunk along with other forms of public funding.

In addition, the dispersal of unaccompanied child refugees is done with little or no regard for local authorities’ capacity to meet children’s religious, cultural, and educational needs.

A question from the Committee’s Chair, Cllr David Bryan, clarified the position.

Mr Mutter told Committee members that metropolitan council areas—for example, London, Manchester, Cardiff, and Newport—have the relevant infrastructure to meet an unaccompanied child’s wider needs, while rural councils do not.

The absence of support mechanisms

means councils like Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, or Carmarthenshire face difficulties providing for child refugees within their current service provision.

Revising that provision and increasing the service level costs money.

Darren Mutter pointed out, however, that given the nature of the crises leading to unaccompanied children entering the UK, it is probable that Pembrokeshire would support them regardless of central government diktat.

POVERTY THE MAIN DRIVER

Levels of poverty and the cost of living continue to be significant and persistent issues for the residents of Pembrokeshire and the wider population of the UK.

Rates of child poverty remain stubbornly high in Pembrokeshire, across Wales, and in the rest of the UK.

People in poverty find managing all aspects of their lives more challenging and stressful.

For example, someone who ordinarily manages a mental health condition well may struggle to do so when faced with interminable financial challenges.

Pressurised situations,

where choices must be made between eating and heating, may also increase conflict in the home and lead to incidences of domestic abuse. Although that is not inevitable, inescapable pressures caused by the increasing cost of living show how poverty can negatively affect children.

That is compounded by the fact that the cost-of-living crisis has also affected the cost of goods and services for organisations like the local authority.

The cost of providing local authority services is not indexed to consumer or retail price indices.

While the headline rate of consumer inflation is now falling, food inflation remains more than double that figure, while the cost of providing services has gone up by more than 14% in the last year alone.

That increases financial pressure on a service that already—mostly— deals only with statutory obligations, making its ability to provide meaningful preventative help all but redundant.

The lack of capacity to deal with preventative work has undoubtedly increased the number of children entering local authority care in Pembrokeshire.

health providers across the UK are in the same boat: unable to understand the full impact of it on children’s emotional and mental wellbeing.

Meeting that ongoing demand is an unforeseen cost of the pandemic.

MORE DEMAND, LESS SUPPLY

The demand for intervention by Children’s Services has risen for at least five years. It now far outstrips the capacity of the Child Care Assessment Team.

The need to make savings in the Council’s Annual Budget means staffing levels have not followed increased demand.

Although the CCAT deals with the most serious concerns and referrals, the sheer volume of both means the quality of the work that is carried out is now “routinely compromised”, leading to risks that key information or processes will be missed

THE COVID AFTERMATH

Since the pandemic, the number of children experiencing emotional distress, anxiety and more complex and impactful mental health issues has increased exponentially.

Services, including those offered by the health board, have not kept pace with demand. That means unmet needs at the lower end of the complexity scale have been left unaddressed, escalating that need and complexity.

That is a factor in the number of children who are currently residing in residential care, many of whom self-harm and show clear signs of emotional distress, bordering at times on mental health conditions.

Prevention is the key to stopping needs from escalating and issues from becoming more complex and difficult to resolve.

The surge in demand for children’s wellbeing services has outstripped public services’ capacity to cope.

A recent report from Cardiff University adds weight to the suggestion that the social and mental health impacts of the Covid pandemic remain in play - and will remain a factorlong after its passage.

Social services and

The proportion of referrals and concerns that are now not provided with a response is much higher than it has been historically, again raising the risk that an early opportunity to prevent an escalation of need or prevent the risk of harm will be missed and that a later presentation by those same families will see the concerns being even more acute.

The pressure on social workers within the Children’s Services Department leaves them almost more concerned about the work they cannot focus on than they are about the work they are carrying out.

Despite those pressures, Darren Mutter was cautiously optimistic that service improvements have a better chance of happening than hitherto.

He pointed to a change in commissioning structures, a revised strategy, including a reduction in the number of children in placements outside Pembrokeshire, and funding secured in the recent Council Budget as giving a degree of greater capacity than in the past.

The Committee members voted unanimously to note Darren Mutter’s report. They also added a vote of thanks to the Children’s Services Department’s staff for their efforts at a time of huge difficulties and challenges.

Campervan car park trial in Pembrokeshire to come under spotlight

A RECENTLYbacked decision by senior Pembrokeshire councillors to allow a trial scheme for overnight motorhome and campervan parking at some of the county’s car parks is to come under further scrutiny.

Members of the council’s Cabinet, at their February meeting, backed a proposal for a trial run ‘Pembs Stop’ scheme at four car parks: North Beach, Tenby; Goodwick Moor, Goodwick; Townsmoor, Narberth; and Western Way, Pembroke Dock.

The ‘Pembs Stop’ trial areas, available for up to two nights, will operate year-round at £10 a night for a trial 18-month period, expected to start in July.

It was stressed the scheme was not intended to create ‘campsites,’ with a list of criteria including no LPG bottles or furniture to be stored outside, and no camping waste or recycling points being provided.

But local businesses say the proposals will harm Pembrokeshire

Phil Davies, who owns Hungerford Farm Touring Caravan and Motorhome Park near Loveston, said one and two-night stays from motorhomes and campervans make up between 25 and 30 per cent of his annual turnover.

“Should the 18-month trial go ahead the drop in business will cause job losses within the industry as many businesses could not survive even a temporary drop in trade.”

He also criticised the Cabinet report for using evidence from Gwynedd Council which has faced similar issues, saying the research data, from 2021, was during a period when visitor numbers were “artificially high” as the country was still under Covid travel restrictions.

The Pembs Stop initiative would also place an additional burden on existing services, with many using public toilets to dispose of waste in order to travel empty

to save fuel, Mr Davies said.

In a letter to the council on behalf of Narberth traders, Christine James said: “We feel let down that a matter such as this, with potential to have such huge effects on local residents and businesses, has not been brought to our attention.”

She said no-one in Narberth had been notified of the proposals prior to the cabinet meeting in February.

Vicky Gleeson, owner of Ty Creft on Narberth High Street, said: “One lady has recently been turned down for change of use of the upper level of her commercial premises into accommodation. The reason: increased phosphates into the sewerage system. How many phosphates will enter the water system if you’re allowing hundreds of people to pour their waste and chemicals down the public toilets?”

She added: “There are so many towns with dead high streets, empty shops and no visitors. Narberth is not one of those towns. It’s busy and thriving. It is a jewel in Pembrokeshire’s crown and PCC should be fighting to keep it and protect it.”

Councillor Di Clements has been

working with those in her ward who will be affected, and also Narberth traders who contacted her, to make sure their concerns are heard.

She added: “It’s disappointing that businesses and residents in and around the trial areas weren’t consulted before it was given the go ahead. We are lucky here in Pembrokeshire to have such a beautiful landscape.

“While that has increased pressure from motorhomes and campervans in places like Manorbier and Newgale, the Pembs Stop trial places the council in direct competition with businesses like Mr Davies’ in an already saturated market.”

Cllr Clements has called for the matter be sent to the council’s policy and pre decision scrutiny committee for further discussion, which will now be considered at its April 9 meeting.

A report before the committee says: “After Cabinet, Cllr Clement raised concerns that the report would benefit from more oversight. The comments were raised with the Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, who agreed that the matter be referred to Policy & Predecision Overview & Scrutiny Committee, and the chair of the committee

on phone-in programme on BBC Radio Wales on February 13.”

The report also highlights support received for the trial.

One comment received said: “I am writing on behalf of a vibrant group of motorhome enthusiasts who cherish exploring the beauty of Wales while respecting its communities and environment.

strive to leave places better than we found them, supporting local businesses, and engaging positively with the communities we visit.

Your initiative directly supports our ability to do so in the Pembrokeshire area; enhancing our members’ experiences while ensuring we contribute positively to the local area.

supported this.

“As well as Cllr Clement’s observations there have been a number of comments raised about the decision, and the matter also received national coverage in terms of a discussion

“We recently became aware of your pioneering ‘Pembs Stop’ initiative to accommodate overnight campers in selected car parks. This thoughtful decision not only showcases your commitment to promoting tourism in a sustainable manner but also acknowledges the growing interest in motorhome travel.

“We are a group deeply committed to responsible motor homing. We always

“We wanted to extend our heartfelt thanks to you and everyone involved in the Pembs Stop decision. Your forward-thinking approach not only makes a significant difference to motorhome enthusiasts like us but also sets a commendable example for how communities can embrace the benefits of responsible motorhome tourism. Please consider this email as a token of our appreciation and a pledge from our community to support and promote this initiative.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Business Rates Relief cut ‘spells disaster’ for Welsh hospitality sector

THE ANNOUNCEMENT

was made last year, but this week the reality kicked in.

The Business Rates Relief has been cut in Wales has kicked in and the hoped-for u-turn has not materialised.

The substantial reduction in business rates relief for hospitality firms has stirred significant concern amongst business owners and industry representatives across Wales.

Effective from 1 April 2024, the relief has been cut from 75% to 40%, accompanied by a 5% rise in rates. This decision is part of a broader strategy to redistribute financial resources to support

essential services, particularly the health service, amidst ongoing fiscal pressures.

Finance Minister Rebecca Evans has acknowledged the difficulty of these decisions, emphasising the government’s commitment to managing a tight budget in challenging times. However, the reduction in support has sparked fears of financial strain and potential closures within the hospitality sector.

INDUSTRY RESPONSE

The announcement

has been met with dismay by industry leaders, who warn of the competitive disadvantage Welsh businesses will now face. David Chapman, Executive Director of UKHospitality Cymru, highlighted the stark contrast with England, where businesses continue to benefit from the 75% relief. “This disparity will undoubtedly place Welsh businesses at a competitive disadvantage, particularly small businesses that will see their counterparts across the border enjoying frozen rates,” Chapman said.

A typical pub or restaurant in Wales is now expected to pay £6,400 more than one in England,

a disparity that could have severe implications for the viability of many establishments.

BUDGET CUTS AND TOURISM

The reduction in business rates relief is not the only financial challenge facing the Welsh hospitality and tourism sectors. The Welsh Government’s budget for 2024/25 also includes a £16m cut in funding for tourism, culture, and sport. Given the strategic importance of tourism to Wales’ economy and cultural identity, this decision has been met with criticism. The sector, already facing intense economic

challenges, views the cut as a significant setback that could undermine long-term confidence and investment.

POLITICAL AND COMMUNITY REACTION

Stephen Crabb MP, pictured here with restaurant owner Dan Mills, has been vocal in his efforts to highlight the challenges facing the hospitality sector, especially in regions like Pembrokeshire that rely heavily on tourism. Crabb has been engaging with local business owners, bringing attention to the sector’s struggles at both the local and national levels. “The upcoming season should be a time of optimism, but the reality is far different due to these financial challenges,” Crabb stated, emphasising the need for greater support to ensure the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability.

The Welsh Conservatives have strongly criticised the Welsh Government’s decision, with Andrew RT Davies MS, the party’s leader, and Tom Giffard MS, Shadow Minister for Tourism, both calling for a reevaluation of the relief cut. They argue that the reduction could be catastrophic for businesses already contending with the postpandemic economic landscape, urging the government to maintain competitive rates relief.

CALLS FOR RECONSIDERATION

Amid growing concerns, FOR Cardiff, representing businesses within the city, has issued an open letter to the Minister for Finance, urging the Welsh Government to reconsider its approach to business rates relief. The organisation highlights the critical role of high street businesses in the everyday economy and warns of the potential for widespread closures without adequate support.

Carolyn Brownell, FOR Cardiff’s Executive Director, called for a more gradual approach to tapering relief, suggesting that some of the government’s capital funds could be redirected to provide targeted support where it’s most needed.

LOOKING FORWARD

As the hospitality sector braces for the impact of these financial changes, the debate continues over the best path forward. Industry leaders, political figures, and community representatives are calling for a balanced approach that supports businesses through these challenging times while addressing the fiscal needs of the country.

The coming months will be crucial in determining the long-term effects of these decisions on Wales’ hospitality sector and broader economy.

How many pubs and restaurants will survive?

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Rescue teams co-ordinate in search for injured walker

AT 2.28pm on Easter

Monday (Apr 1), St Davids inshore lifeboat Marian and Alan Clayton was tasked to help locate and assist an injured walker on the footpath north of St Davids head.

HM Coastguard had no communication with the casualty so the volunteer crew launched at 2.43pm and headed for Porthmelgan.

Coastguard teams from HM Coastguard – St Davids and HM Coastguard Fishguard teams were on scene and advised of the walker’s location, but requested assistance with pain relief for an injured leg.

Three lifeboat crew went ashore and administered Entonox to the casualty until the Coastguard rescue helicopter from MOD St Athan arrived.

Once the casualty was airlifted and taken to Swansea for further treatment, the crew stood down and returned to station at 5.35pm.

Haverfordwest Riverside project to proceed

A N EXTRAORDINARY meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet has approved the tender of improvements to Haverfordwest’s Riverside.

The plans include the controversial new footbridge to connect the town centre to Haverfordwest Castle.

Last week, the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee called in the proposals at the behest of the Conservative Group and the IPG.

The Committee asked the Cabinet to provide further details about the cost of proceeding with the scheme and its potential financial impact on the Council’s revenue budget.

Deputy Leader Paul Miller chaired the meeting in Cllr David Simpson’s absence on annual leave. He immediately deferred to Darren Thomas, the Council’s Director of Transport and the Environment, to update the Cabinet

with the information the Committee requested.

Mr Thomas confirmed the completion of the tender process and that the Walters Group would undertake the project on a fixed-price contract worth approximately £5.2m.

That sum includes considerable other works apart from the socalled “Instagrammable bridge”.

The contract’s scheduled completion date is March 31, 2025.

In 2021, Pembrokeshire County Council was awarded £17,700,266 from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund (LUF) to complete the Heart of Pembrokeshire project.

The Heart of Pembrokeshire Project is an extremely complex, multi-package project that will take place in and around Haverfordwest Castle, an ancient scheduled monument.

the contribution towards the new bridge’s construction. Repairing and protecting the existing bridge would mean its closure for an extended period for maintenance.

MIKE EDWARDS

W HATEVER else life is, it’s not a journey towards a definite destination.

Well, in a manner of speaking, for most of us, it is.

consonants when a tourist wants a packet of scampi fries or a pint of something fizzily alcoholic.

The Grim Reaper comes for everyone and everything that exists.

Apart from my beloved wife, of course. It wouldn’t dare come near her.

I can’t say it’s ever happened to me or anyone I know. Nevertheless, cliches being what they are, some poor moron must believe it happens. Or read it on the interweb, which is all the proof most people need.

Based on the full grant awarded for the bridge element, the Council must contribute £568,820.

Mr Thomas explained to the Cabinet that there were structural issues with the existing footbridge crossing the Cleddau River as it flowed through Haverfordwest Town Centre.

Those issues were chronic, and the cost of maintaining the existing crossing – or even wholly replacing it without funding – was a drain on scarce resources that exceeded the Council’s contribution to the new bridge’s construction.

Darren Thomas reported the existing bridge’s limited lifespan made ongoing repairs uneconomic, while a like-for-like replacement would cost more than

The grant awarded for the Signature Bridge element of the Heart of Pembrokeshire project is £5,119,383, and the Council must contribute 10% through match funding towards the project cost.

Cllr Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member for Finance, said that if the investment did not represent value for money, he would not support it. He continued saying that as he supported the project, it followed that he thought it was good value for money.

Cllr Jon Harvey said that the regeneration of the County’s town centres should’ve taken place years ago. He commended the current administration’s commitment to ensuring that jobs left undone for too long were completed.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett echoed Cllr Harvey’s remarks, observing that town centres had declined and that regenerating them, encouraging increased footfall, and building fresh infrastructure was essential to help maintain them.

Paul Miller said that if the choices and projects were easy, the private sector would have undertaken the projects and completed them. In the absence of private investment, Cllr Miller said the Council had a choice between stepping back and doing nothing or acting decisively to arrest long-standing underinvestment in public spaces.

The Cabinet, he continued, had a clear strategic vision for Haverfordwest and was undertaking several projects to regenerate its town centre and others.

The Council won funding for regenerating Haverfordwest in competition and secured 90% funding from the UK Government to enable it to do so.

The Cabinet approved the tender unanimously, and Walters Group is expected to start work on the improvements soon.

She has an inexhaustible supply of pieces of her mind, and Death had best bring a deckchair and salmon paste sarnies and settle down for a long wait while she shares them.

I have long resigned myself to things coming to the ultimate punctuation mark.

I have also reconciled myself to the likelihood of the bit before the full stop being crowded with terror inflicted at my most darling one’s hands.

Being of a Cardi disposition, homicidal fury comes naturally to the wife.

Life is so nasty, brutish, and short in our northern neighbour that its residents regard its continuation by third parties as more or less negotiable.

There are not many pianos in the pubs around Ceredigion. However, the music always stops when an outsider walks in.

It’s the rules.

It’s like lynching strangers or tarring and feathering Welsh Government Rural Affairs Ministers.

Or maybe the other way around.

As is wellknown, all Cardis switch from cut-glass RP English to a blizzard of

I’m not clear how anyone outside a pub or a shop can tell what language is spoken within without - you know - going inside.

I know the wife is constantly enraged by the suspicion that when she goes into a shop in - for example -Tregaron, the locals switch from Welsh to English just to annoy and inconvenience her.

Nevertheless, travelling through Ceredigion is a bit like dying.

You don’t understand what’s happening, and brain activity ends somewhere around Borth.

That said, I heartily recommend strolling along the beach at Ynyslas. The sands there knock seven bells of poop out of the most popular beaches in Pembrokeshire. Go out of season and avoid Brummies and the Nigels and Hermiones seeking nature.

It’s almost heavenly, which brings me back to my original observation via a circuitous route.

Don’t worry about an afterlife in the paradise your faith prescribes.

There’s enough heaven here in Wales to go around.

Discover your own.

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email In

condition: The existing footbridge

Celebrate nature during Wales Outdoor Learning Week

PEOPLE from across Wales are invited to step into the great outdoors as a week-long celebration of outdoor learning returns.

Wales Outdoor Learning Week, held between 22 and 28 April, encourages teachers, education groups and families in Wales to embed outdoor learning into school and family life and reap the many benefits connecting with nature provides.

The event was launched by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) in partnership with the Wales Council for Outdoor Learning in 2019.

This year’s theme highlights the benefits of being outdoors and promotes lifelong positive behaviours to help tackle the climate and nature emergencies.

People can take part at their school, by taking a walk in their local woodland, beach or park and sharing their experience online via #WalesOutdoorLearningWeek.

Members of the Wales Council for Outdoor Learning will be showcasing activities and ideas throughout the week, with some locally organised events available.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Clare Pillman, NRW’s Chief Executive, said:

“During Wales Outdoor Learning Week we want to encourage people young and old to connect with nature and the environment.

“This year’s theme centres on helping to promote lifelong positive behaviours, to help young people understand the impact of their actions around the climate and nature emergencies and how to make the right choices.

“Evidence shows that learning in the natural environment improves knowledge and understanding, helping us recognise the positive impact we can have on the environment, now, and in the future.

“Connecting with nature is widely recognised for its significant health and well-being benefits and outdoor learning is advocated by the Welsh Government as a key approach to delivering the Curriculum for Wales.”

Steph Price, Chair of the Wales Council for Outdoor Learning, said: “Wales Outdoor Learn-

ing Week is a fantastic opportunity to showcase all the excellent outdoor learning opportunities for educational settings, as well as for families and the wider public.

“Whether you want to learn something new, try a new activity or share your own love of the outdoors we are hoping the week will inspire people to con-

nect with nature and help embed learning in, learning about and learning for, the natural environment within school and throughout life.”

Wales Council for Outdoor Learning members are among those looking forward to a busy and activity-packed week.

They include, UK Youth for Nature, the

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (BBNP), Cadw, Bangor University, Cardiff Met University, Antur Natur, Urdd Gobaith Cymru, Conwy CBC Outdoor Centres, Centre for Alternative Technology, Pembrokeshire Outdoor

Schools, Welsh Wildlife Trust, Field Studies Council, Outdoor Education Advisory Panel (OEAP), John Muir Trust, Llanelli Wetlands Centre, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Dŵr Cymru.

For more information visit Wales Outdoor Learning Week and Wales Council for Outdoor Learning

Residents need photo ID to vote at elections in May

RESIDENTS in Pembrokeshire will need to show photographic ID to vote in local elections on 2nd May. Residents are being urged to make sure they are ready to vote by checking they have an accepted form of ID.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online at www.voter-authoritycertificate.service.gov. uk/ or by completing a paper form. The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website, along with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for the free ID, at electoralcommission. org.uk/voterID.

Jackie Killeen, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance, said: “Anyone voting at a polling station will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it. You can find information about the new requirement and what to expect at the polling station, on the Electoral Commission’s website.”

Anyone who wants to have their say in the elections this May must also be registered to vote. It only takes five minutes

to register online at www.gov.uk/registerto-vote. Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote.

The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station was introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act and came into effect for the first time in May 2023.

What the Child Benefit rate rise means for you

MILLIONS of families who claim Child Benefit will automatically receive increased payments from 6 April 2024, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed.

Families with one child will now receive up to £1,331 a year –an annual increase of £83.20, and up to £881 a year per additional child – an annual increase of £54.60. There is no limit to how many children families can claim for.

Parents will receive £102.40 every 4 weeks (£25.60 per week) for the first or only child and £67.80 every 4 weeks (£16.95 per week) for each additional child.

Families with ongoing claims do not need to contact HMRC, as the increased benefit payment will continue to be paid directly into their bank accounts. Anyone who needs to update their personal details, such as a change of bank account or address, can do so using the HMRC

app or online at GOV.UK. Parents with a newborn baby are encouraged to make a claim online as soon as possible and could receive their first payment in as little as three days. Child Benefit claims can be backdated by a maximum of three months.

Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Deputy Chief Executive and Second Permanent Secretary, said:

“The increase in Child Benefit rates for existing claimants is automatic and families do not need to contact us. New claimants should apply online or using HMRC’s app. Search ‘child benefit’ on GOV.UK for more information.”

HMRC is reminding parents yet to benefit from Child Benefit that it is quick and easy to claim on GOV.UK or via the HMRC app, which can be used to:

• apply online

• backdate claims for up to 3 months

• add a new baby to a claim

• tell HMRC about a change in circumstances

• update details i.e. change of address/ bank details

• view or print proof of entitlement to Child Benefit

From 6 April 2024,

families where the highest earner has a salary of up to £60,000 a year will not be subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).

Previously, a person who had an annual income of £50,000 or more would be liable to pay the charge if they or their partner were receiving Child Benefit.

Laura Trott, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said:

“We are ending the unfairness in the child benefit system, and as a result 170,000 families will no longer have to pay back child benefit, and nearly half a million families will save an average of around £1,300 next year.

“The legacy of the pandemic and the war in Ukraine has put pressures on everyone’s cost of living. But, by taking difficult decisions, the economy is starting to turn a corner, and we can now provide further support to parents.”

For those earning

between £60,000 and £80,000, the amount of Child Benefit they are entitled to receive reduces as income increases within this range. If an individual’s income exceeds £80,000 the HICBC will be equal to the Child Benefit payment. Parents who make a claim and then choose to optout of receiving Child Benefit payments can still receive National Insurance credits if one parent is not working.

Parents with an income above £50,000, who reinstate their Child Benefit before 6 April 2024, may be subject to HICBC charges if they choose to start payments in the 2023 to 2024 tax year. For new claimants who claim Child Benefit on or after 6 April 2024, any HICBC liability will be based on the new 2024 to 2025 threshold of £60,000 to £80,000. More information can be found on GOV.UK. Search ‘High Income Child Benefit Charge.’

Pembrokeshire rowing club sets sail towards 2028 Olympics

THE Fishguard and Goodwick Jemima Rowing Club proudly inaugurated their new Coastal Sculling Facility on Saturday, March 23. This pioneering move comes in anticipation of Coastal Sculling’s debut at the 2028 Olympic Games, marking a historic moment for the sport.

Situated in the scenic county of Pembrokeshire, the club has been honoured with the distinction of GB Coastal Sculling Academy, positioning it as one of the inaugural five academies dedicated to this discipline within the UK. This prestigious status underscores the club’s commitment to nurturing talent capable of representing Team GB, particularly in the Beach Sprints event set to be showcased in Los Angeles.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Jerry Owen, a seasoned club member with four Olympic participations under his belt, is among the athletes preparing for selection. His journey epitomises the ambition and dedication fostered within the club’s ranks.

The facility’s opening was commemorated by Pembrokeshire County Councillor Kevin Doolin, who, following instrumental negotiations for the lease, lauded the club’s achievements in his speech. The Goodwick Facility, now leased from Pembrokeshire County Council, owes its realisation to the generous support of local businesses, charities, individuals, and a triumphant crowdfunding campaign.

Adding to its calendar of prestigious events, the club is set to host the Welsh Senior Beach Sprints Championship and the Offshore Regatta on May

11 and 12, respectively, at Goodwick Beach. These events not only highlight the club’s growing stature but also its commitment to the sport’s development at a community and national level.

Since its establishment in 1997, the Fishguard and Goodwick Jemima Rowing Club has played a vital role in

promoting rowing across various demographics.

In partnership with local initiatives like the Thunderbolts high school team and the Active4Life programme, it has successfully broadened its membership base, catering to all ages and abilities.

The club’s expansion into Coastal Sculling and

Beach Sprints, alongside its cherished Celtic rowing activities, reflects a versatile approach to embracing diverse rowing disciplines. This strategic diversification underscores the club’s ambition to remain at the forefront of the sport’s evolution.

Gratitude was extended to local architect Tomos

firmly

Kinver for his pro bono advice and support in the facility’s development, and to Colin Barnett for capturing the momentous occasion through his lens. With its eyes

set on the horizon, the Fishguard and Goodwick Jemima Rowing Club sails forward, emboldened by its new facility and the promise of Olympic glory.

St Davids hotel showcases Grahame Hurd-Wood’s city portraits

Wales first art hotel, Twr y Felin, in St Davids, has added a collection of portraits by Grahame HurdWood to its displays of over 200 contemporary artworks.

The local artist has worked on the portraits of people living in and around Britain’s smallest city of St Davids for many years. A personal loss prompted the start of the project, and after discussing the idea with his friend, Meredydd

Barker, over a Guinness in the local pub, he was motivated to begin. That day, Grahame painted his friend as the first portrait.

The project evolved, with Grahame fascinated by the range of people who make the small peninsula their home.

Commenting on the collection Grahame said; “Personally, it’s about the connection

with the sitter and the contact with someone. Everyone is different, and I think people find it really important to be painted, but actually, I feel important to be able to paint them”.

To date, Grahame has completed approximately 900 portraits and is collating the artworks into collections. He is currently exhibiting two panels, with 35 portraits in each, at the Senedd in Cardiff, a precursor to a

much larger exhibition in 2025.

Emma Bowen, General Manager at Twr y Felin has known Grahame since she worked as the admin and events assistant at Oriel y Parc, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Visitor Centre in St Davids. The centre is also home to an Amgueddfa Cymru- National Museum Wales class A gallery, which exhibits Graham Sutherland’s paintings and other artworks from

its national collection.

“At the time, he was the artist in residence and his portrait project was gaining national and international attention”, said Emma. “Channel 4 came to the centre to film a news piece and Grahame needed a sitter, which is where I stepped in. He has now kindly included my portrait in one of the panels here at Twr y Felin.

“I am pleased we are able to showcase a small selection of his

work and to enable a new audience to see this incredible project. I also hope that some of the people featured will visit to see their portrait at the hotel”, added Emma Bowen.

Free to view, Grahame Hurd-Wood’s city portrait collection is now on display in the Oriel Lounge at Twr y Felin Hotel. For more details visit www. twryfelinhotel.com or call 01437 725 555.

Twr y Felin Hotel sponsors St Davids Rugby Club

Twr y Felin Hotel in St Davids has confirmed its sponsorship of the city’s local rugby club for the next year.

Established in 1953, St Davids Rugby Club has recently focused on developing its home ground and building a solid future, from minis to seniors, with a committee dedicated to its growth.

Rugby, as Welsh as daffodils, cawl and male voice choirs, sits at the heart of every community, and St Davids is no different. Home to just over 1,700 people, any sports team here in Britain’s smallest city faces a battle to success, and while the

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Welsh are famous for their love of the game, it still takes much investment to achieve.

Commenting on their sponsorship deal, Emma Bowen, General Manager of Twr y Felin said; “As one of the largest employers within the St Davids peninsula, we felt it was important for the Retreats Group to play its part in supporting the local community. Whilst we regularly donate to fundraisers in the form of hotel stays, we felt that for the year ahead, we wanted to make a significant impact to a wider number of local

residents by becoming one of St Davids Rugby Club’s key sponsors.

“You don’t have to play yourself, or even know someone who plays, to be interested and proud of the team’s achievements or recognise how important a club like this is to the city of St Davids,” added Emma. The Retreats Group logo is now featured on the club’s new jerseys.

To find out more about the rugby club visit their website www.stdavidsrugby. com where you can also support their new floodlights appeal or for information about Twr y Felin visit www. twryfelinhotel.com.

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Hub Cymru Africa announces Sub-Sahara Advisory Panel as its new host

TEN years after the founding of Hub Cymru Africa partnership, the Sub-Sahara Advisory Panel will take over as the new host-partner, replacing the Welsh Centre for International Affairs.

Following 10 years as hosts of the Hub Cymru Africa Partnership, the Welsh Centre for International Affairs (WCIA) will be replaced as host partners by the Sub-Sahara Advisory Panel (SSAP). WCIA will continue to remain a member of the partnership.

The Hub Cymru Africa Partnership does important work in supporting the global solidarity sector, and the Wales and Africa Community. We will continue to do this.

SSAP has brought invaluable expertise to the Hub Cymru Africa partnership from inclusion, diversity and our ongoing Reframing the Narrative project. This next phase of the Partnership will build on this work into the future, with an African diasporaled organisation at the helm.

Announcing the move, Head of Hub Cymru Africa, Claire O’Shea said: “We’re grateful for the leadership and role that WCIA has given to the partnership and the global solidarity sector over the last ten years.”

“As we continue our work to better represent and serve our partners here in Wales and in Africa, and implement our values of justice and anti-racism, it is right that SSAP steps in as the new host of Hub Cymru Africa.”

Fadhili Maghiya, CEO of SSAP said: “The Wales and Africa Programme has grown from strength to strength over the years. Built on mutuality, lifelong connections and learning from each other, the programme has grown into a vibrant sector working in global solidarity. Through the inclusion agenda and

important projects such as the Race Equality Action Plan, the sector is always pushing boundaries and involving communities across Wales.

“I’m looking forward to continuing this work and building on our successes as the new

hosts of the Hub Cymru Africa Partnership.”

Dr Gill Richardson, Co-Chair of WCIA said:

“I’d like to thank the amazing Hub Cymru Africa team for all they’ve done over the past 10

had the privilege to host. We celebrate all that has been achieved in supporting the Wales and Africa community, led by its head, Claire O’Shea.

“This new phase of Hub Cymru Africa will see

is an important evolution in Hub Cymru Africa’s story. We are still supporting the Partnership, but now is the right time to hand on the baton of leadership. We look forward to supporting Hub Cymru

Charity warns older people to be wary of rogue traders

the telephone industry upgrades from analogue to digital landlines, Age Cymru is warning older people to be wary of rogue traders trying to take advantage of the switchover.

The change will see calls made over a broadband line instead of the old analogue network, which is becoming increasingly unreliable.

The charity says for most customers, all aspects of the switchover will be free of charge with no home installation work required. If customers require additional support with set up, they will be contacted by their telephone provider.

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

People can also check with their telephone provider about what work is or isn’t taking place in their area. However, if anyone feels threatened or in any danger from a rogue trader they should call the police as soon as possible.

Age Cymru’s chief executive Victoria Lloyd says “It’s such a shame that we must warn older people to be on their guard in relation to the digital switchover as this is something that should improve people’s experiences of phone services.

“We’ve been told that lines will be clearer, which will help those who are hard of hearing. There’ll be a facility to enable three party lines

Age Cymru therefore warns that if somebody offers to carry out work relating to the switchover, in return for some form of payment, it’s likely to be a scam that should be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

which will help people to have mini group chats with friends and family and thereby help reduce loneliness. And there’ll be increased protection against unwanted marketing or nuisance calls.

“However, given our experience of how rogue traders work we want to forearm older people so they can avoid potentially expensive and emotionally damaging scams and instead take full advantage of the new phone services without any unnecessary fears.”

Understanding the digital switchover process

BT, the biggest supplier of landlines in Wales, is holding dozens of events across the country to advise customers face-toface about the switch. Other phone providers may also be organising similar events.

Age Cymru

understands that for most customers, digital switchover will simply involve connecting your home phone handset to a router rather than the phone socket on the wall. And for BT customers, if you don’t have the correct router, they will send you one completely free of charge.

At this stage, BT will be writing to all their customers to make them aware of the changes, and following up with those who are ready and eligible to make the switch. BT will not be switching customers who may have difficulty making the change just yet and will give these customers additional support when the time comes.

If you think you’ll have a problem with

the transition, think you are vulnerable, or use a healthcare alarm connected to your landline, please contact your phone provider and tell them.

And if anyone uses a personal healthcare alarm, they should also check with their suppliers that they have everything they need prior to the switchover.

BT customers who are ready and eligible to make the switch will be contacted four weeks before making the move to ensure they have everything they need.

While BT are by far the biggest provider of telephone services in Wales, this is an industry-wide change and other telephone providers are managing their own switchover process so contact your provider to understand

how the change will affect you.

How big is the issue of scamming in Wales?

According to the Wales Against Scams Partnership (WASP) older victims of scams in the UK lose an average of £1,200 over their lifetimes.

WASP also cites Action Fraud data showing that they receive around 15,000 cases of fraud from Wales each year.

However, Action Fraud believes that the reported figure is just the tip of the iceberg and that the actual number of scams undertaken, or attempted, is seven times bigger.

And according to recent BBC research it is estimated that the UK is losing £2,300 per minute to scam activity.

COVID-19 spring booster 2024 update for Hywel Dda UHB residents

HYWEL Dda University Health Board (UHB) begins the delivery of the COVID-19 spring booster programme on 2 April, 2024.

Earlier this year, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advised that a COVID-19 vaccine should be offered to:

• adults aged 75 years and over

• residents in a care home for older adults

• individuals aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed (as defined in tables 3 or 4 in the COVID-19 chapter of the Green Book)

The majority of GP practices and a number of community pharmacies across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire will

deliver the COVID-19 spring booster, supported by the health board who will use vaccination centres in Llanelli, Neyland and Cwm Cou, and other community venues as needed.

The COVID-19 spring booster programme will run until 30 June, 2024 with some limited flexibility into July for those who are unable to receive a booster within the main programme window, due to illness.

Dr Ardiana Gjini, Executive Director of Public Health for Hywel Dda UHB, said: “Thanks to an effective vaccination programme combined with naturally derived immunity in the population, COVID-19 is now a relatively mild disease for the vast majority of people.

“This ongoing increase in population immunity allows a more targeted programme aimed at those at higher risk of developing

serious COVID-19 disease.

“Throughout the pandemic, older people have been among those most likely to experience severe disease if infected by the SARSCoV-2 virus, with the highest risk being in those aged 85 years and over.

“Over the next three months, our programme will ensure the most åvulnerable members of our community are offered a booster vaccine.

“I’d like to thank colleagues in primary care for supporting this important vaccination programme and all within the health board who continue to work to ensure this vaccine is accessible to our most vulnerable population.”

The COVID-19 spring booster programme will focus on those at highest risk first. Eligible people in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire will

be invited to have the COVID-19 spring booster around 6 months after their last dose but it may be given from 3 months following the last vaccine.

Anyone turning 75

years of age between April and June will be called for vaccination during the campaign.

People are asked to wait to be contacted with an appointment, but should anyone have

any questions regarding the COVID-19 spring booster and how to access it, please contact Hywel Dda UHB’s communication hub on 0300 303 8322 or ask. hdd@wales.nhs.uk

Llandeilo Antiques and Vintage Fair springs back into action

successful fair has grown in popularity over the last year and can be located in the heart of Llandeilo, close to the main car park.Here you will find a bustling, vibrant Fair with lots of antiques and vintage to whet your appetite and now includes a vintage element with a touch of retro.it will be held on Saturday 6 th April at the Civic Hall.

Being a Welsh Fair it is understandable that there should be a good selection of Welsh items on offer. Whether it’s an original Welsh watercolour or oil painting or a piece of Welsh pottery or examples of Welsh textiles.There will also be a selection of Welsh blankets and textiles on display , the result of Wales having a rich heritage , in the woollen industry.

There are some interesting displays to be discovered at the fair whether it’s a rare postcard , a collection of old photographs or an unusual love token. One of the dealers Allys Gronow has a superb collection of these special coins.

Love tokens are coins that were engraved after the minting process was complete. Generally, an artisan removed the words and images from the reverse, or sometimes from both sides.Artisans ranging in skills from a high-quality craftsperson to a “do-it-yourselfer” then engraved or punched pictures, initials, and messages on the cleared area.

Other times, the coin was left intact and the artisan engraved initials, dates, or pictures on the edges around the images of royalty. The coins became lucky charms, objects of art, and pieces of jewellery. The messages on the coins could be used as spiritual reminders, family documentation, or sentimental sweet nothings.

In Britain, the practice of giving ‘love tokens’ has been around from at least Roman times, mudlarking expeditions on the Thames river banks have often uncovered bent or bowed coins ranging from as far back as the 16th century. The breaking of gold and coins were often included as part of the marriage ceremonial contract, but ardent suitors would often bend the coins and present them to the lady they wished to court as a symbol of the strength of their love, affection and intent.

Even though clipping, defacement and other wilful damage of coins was a treasonable offense , some took a risk by presenting a bowed or bent coin to their lady love. If the love token was accepted, that meant the suitor was successful; if they were discarded, it was a rejection. It has been surmised that many of the ‘crooked coins’ found on the banks of the River Thames — most of the surviving ones are from the 17th and 18th centuries — carry legacies of unrequited love. Often in

these coins, the head of the monarch would be rubbed clean and initials of the giver or/and the intended would be engraved. Some of those accepted would even be worn as a pendant or incorporated into jewellery to be worn close to one’s person. The bent coin, “a token of your pledge,” became a physical reminder of your obligation.

Because love tokens were hand-engraved, they are unique. The birth of a baby, the initial of your intended, a soldier leaving a memory of himself with his loved ones, or a prisoner getting sent off to do his time; all have been remembered on the surface of a coin.

Around the 19th century, such love tokens/coins took on an additional meaning as they “were created by convicted Britons before they were transported to Australia.Smoothed coins engraved with affectionate messages were gifted to loved ones by convicts awaiting execution and transportation. These mementos of affection were often known as ‘leaden hearts’.

Love tokens tell stories that begin with the words, images, and initials engraved on the coins and are completed only by the limits of our own imaginations.

Other methods of making coins into tokens included cutting coins and “pinpunching” (a stippled technique that employed a hammer and point). Free-

hand engraving may date as early as the 1500s in Great Britain

It is difficult to place an exact date on a love token. How do you distinguish the date the art work was engraved on the coin? The age of the token is not necessarily the year the coin was manufactured, which is sometimes still on the coin. Nor is it necessarily the date engraved on the coin, which might be a significant date to the engraver and not the date the engraver re-carved the coin. It is a good thing that most collectors of love tokens are more interested in the quality of the carving and the sentiment of the words than the date or monetary value of the coin.

But these little objects are also passports to another time. In the hands of historians, they illuminate different facets of Georgian society – from courtship, entertainment and fashion to empire and belief

Interestingly enough, a significant number of the copper and nickel coins that were engraved were also gold plated. A poor person might have used this denomination and then by gold plating them, made them look like their gold counterpoint coins. Whatever the host coin, the feelings and emotions were the same. Some could just afford to show their love more than others. People were quite sentimental in the Victorian age and love tokens are an enduring testament to

those feelings.What stories do these love tokens tell, and the sentiment behind the giver whether it was a mothers last gift to her foundling child or a token of betrothal? These little gems of history are a great area to start collecting in.Most collectors are looking for sharp engravings and unusual pictures .Allys has a great collection on display.

The Llandeilo fair is full of exciting collections from Llanelli cockeral plates to the rare Wemys ware and including collections of French brocante .

Attractive displays of gardinalia has proved extremely popular at the fair, including watering

cans , wheel barrows, garden tools and large garden pots and urns.

The Llandeilo fair has a rich cross section of antiques and vintage on display, from jewellery,watches, books, ephemera, militaria and vintage clothes and accessories. There will also be collections of glass and up cycled and pre loved furniture, plus interior design pieces. I’m sure visitors will not be disappointed with the selection on offer at this popular fair.

Homemade refreshments will be available and doors open at 10 am until 4pm. Admission is just £2

A post-medieval silver penny of Charles I, probably bent to form a love token, dating between 1625–1649

Here is part of Allys’ collection

Women’s pension savings alarmingly lower than men’s

IN a revealing study conducted by Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management, a stark gender gap in pension savings across the UK has come to light, with women’s pension pots alarmingly worth only half as much as men’s. The average pension pot for women is reported to be around £37,500, significantly lower than the £75,000 average for men, raising concerns over financial security for woAmen in retirement.

Key findings from the report, “Gender and generation: unravelling the wealth gap,” highlight a concerning disparity in pension savings and awareness. Nearly onethird of women have pension savings under £25,000, whereas this figure stands at only 16% for men. This gap is further exacerbated by a lack of certainty about pension values, with 33% of women unsure about

their pension pot size compared to 24% of men.

The situation appears slightly more promising among younger demographics, suggesting a potential shift towards narrowing the gap. However, with only a third of UK adults confident about achieving a comfortable retirement, the need for enhanced awareness and proactive pension planning is evident. The gender disparity in confidence about future retirement is stark, with 38% of men expressing confidence compared to only 27% of women.

The research also delves into pension management habits, revealing that men are more likely to take personal control of their pension plans than women. This trend underscores the urgent need for increased support and education around pension planning, particularly for women, to ensure equitable financial security in retirement.

Christine Ross, Head of Private Office (North) & Client Director at Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management, emphasizes the critical nature of the findings. She advocates for concerted efforts to bridge the gender gap in pension savings, highlighting the importance of supporting older women and encouraging younger generations to engage with pension planning from an early age.

This comprehensive study sheds light on the pressing issue of gender inequality in retirement savings, calling for immediate action to support women in securing their financial futures.

Unraveling the tragedy in Gaza through the eyes of a seagull

G REETINGS , dear readers of the Pembrokeshire Herald, it’s me, Stephen Seagull, once again fluttering in with a beakful of thoughts on the current goings-on in our world. Today, we’re squawking about a matter that’s ruffled more than just feathers: the dire situation in Gaza.

Squawk! There’s no mincing words—or fish, for that matter— about the tragic events unfolding. With the loss of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers, three of whom were our own Brits, it seems the cycle of deflect, delay,

and deceive spins on unabated. Why, nearly 11 weeks have passed, and not a peep has been offered in explanation for the bombing of a Medical Aid for Palestinians compound in what was supposed to be a safe zone.

These latest aid workers, travelling in what was marked a “deconflicted” zone and in vehicles clearly branded with World Central Kitchen’s logos, were struck not once, but thrice. It’s enough to make one’s feathers stand on end. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s remarks, alongside whispers

from the IDF about “ill discipline,” seem to paint a picture of disarray. But, my feathered friends, the evidence suggests a far more deliberate strategy at play.

A staggering number of aid workers, around 200 since October, have been targeted. It’s a grim tally, unprecedented and largely overlooked, especially when the victims are Palestinian. What could possibly justify such actions against those delivering aid?

Food, a basic necessity, is being weaponized. With Gaza’s population facing imminent famine, efforts

to bring in aid are being systematically blocked. Ports closed, crossings shut on the Sabbath— actions that starkly contrast with the dire need on the ground. And let’s not overlook the targeting of police guarding aid convoys or the smear campaigns against humanitarian agencies. It’s a bleak picture, indeed.

Diving deeper, the statements made by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on 9 October are particularly chilling. Announcing a complete siege, promising the elimination of essentials like electricity, food, and fuel—it’s a declaration

of intent that’s hard to ignore. And yet, somehow, the world’s response has been muffled, fragmented.

Back in October, I squawked loudly about the clear intentions laid out by Israeli officials. No special insight was needed; only a willingness to listen and understand the consequences of such declarations. Now, as we witness the tragic outcome, it’s a stark reminder of the importance of accountability.

As the outcry grows, with Britons and others calling for a ceasefire and sanctions, it’s

crucial that we not only raise our voices but also demand action. The cycle of tragedy will continue unless there is a concerted effort to address the root causes and hold those responsible to account.

So, my fine feathered friends, as we soar above these tumultuous waters, let’s not forget the power of solidarity, of speaking out against injustice. It’s not just about observing from a distance; it’s about diving in, wings spread, to make a difference. Until next time, keep your eyes on the skies and your hearts open to the cries of the voiceless. Squawk out!

Badger and the power of hate

LET’s talk about hate, readers.

It’s a strong word “hate”.

It’s an emotion which can arise by nature or by nurture.

Underlying all of the above is humans’ innate suspicion of those different from them and their family or peer group.

While human nature prefers the comfort and insularity of the familiar, being human means exposure to others who are unfamiliar and different. So, when hate-mongers set out to manipulate people, they already have a natural foundation upon which to build.

Hate-mongers build on humans’ distrust of the alien in several ways. Hatred is a learned response arising from a stimulus by others. The old saw used to be as one bends the twig, so grows the bough.

Emotional and physical abuse, negatively stereotyping others, lies and exaggerations about the threat others pose “to us”, deliberate manipulation and bad faith all feed into the external stimuli which can cause one human being to hate another.

We all live in an age of misinformation, disinformation, and the easy spread of both.

That means that hate spreads faster now than it ever did before social media and its use and abuse by those whose natural habitat is in a mob of football hooligans, a tinfoil-lined basement, or under a rock in a particularly dank swamp. Some people lie for profit and sell “exclusive” merchandise to their credulous victims.

True believers are

the most dangerous species of hate peddlers. Unable to admit error, their beliefs are less political than theological. Like theology, hate can lead you into strange places and arguments based on minuscule semantic points.

If you ever wondered why the Socialist Workers’ Party, the Workers’ Revolutionary Party, the National Front, and the BNP never took power in the UK, Badger has the answer. It is found in the membership of each’s greater hatred of dissenters on their side of the argument and their collective belief that if they are wholly right, their opponents must be wholly wrong.

For the truly faithful, the possibility of an alternative viewpoint, let alone the existence of a middle ground, is heresy.

Never mind common sense or common cause, the teeny-tiny fringe arm-lifters and bedsit revolutionariesbelieve absolutely and sincerely that theirs is the way, the truth, and the light.

Grifters prey on these poor and deluded souls. The grifters believe they can exploit others’ fears to promote their ends, make money, or gain power. Not all wear blue suits, white shirts, red ties, and orange makeup that’d look garish on an Oompa-Loompa.

Some of the grifters use the appearance of respectability to hide in plain sight.

Badger has spoken of Andrew RT Davies before.

The leader of the Conservative Group in the Welsh Parliament sincerely believes in the rightness of his and his party’s cause. He believes having Labour

in perpetual power in Cardiff Bay is bad for Wales.

The empirical evidence suggests his belief is wellfounded.

However, whoever is advising him on his communications strategy is a meanspirited thicko with the moral compass of an alley cat. They are Conservatives In Name Only and have more in common with fringe nutcases than they do with the Conservative Party or Conservatism.

In an online post, the jerk running the Conservative Party’s comms in Wales posted the outrageous claim that Labour wanted to pay £1600 a month to “illegal immigrants”.

That is a racist dog whistle and a flat lie.

For factual accuracy’s sake, Badger will now provide his readers with the truth.

The Welsh Government ran a basic income pilot in Wales that paid all children leaving care in Wales £1600 per month as a Universal Basic Income for two years.

The Scheme is now closed. The last payments under it will be made in mid-2025.

Whether you think a Universal Basic Income is a good idea or not (Badger thinks it’s a shocker for more than one reason), the fact is that around 650 Welsh care leavers applied for it.

“But, Badger!” You cry, “What’s that got to do with ‘illegal immigrants’?”

Ah, readers, well you might.

The Welsh Government treats all unaccompanied child refugees in Wales as

in need of statutory care.

If you think about it, that makes sense. Imagine being twelve years old and packed off by your parents to find safety in - for exampleFishguard. Imagine how desperate the parents must be to consign their child(ren) to such a fate. Imagine the impact on the child.

A child, unaccompanied, fleeing war, famine, horrors we can barely imagine.

Is that the image the phrase “illegal immigrants” calls to mind?

These are the “illegal immigrants” the Welsh Conservatives’ comms department wants to target.

Whoever is responsible for the post to which Badger refers has lost all sense of common decency and compassion. And if

you think that post is acceptable, so have you.

And why do they want to make their outrageous - and untrue claims - about children?

If you cannot guess, readers, Badger will spell it out. The Conservatives want votes from people their members would cross the road to avoid. They’re looking at people who think we’d all have been better off if the Germans had won the Second World War. They appeal to the votes of those yearning for the imaginary good old days when “lesser races” “knew their place” and were jolly grateful for the British Empire.

They are after the votes of racists who will seek any excuse to cast their vote based on fear and bigotry. Calling the 19th-

hole patriots, pub paratroopers, and social media SAS with an opinion about everything, finding the good in nothing, the Welsh Conservative Comms team wants you!

Regarding invective, a well-placed swear word can make a point more effectively and eloquently than any elaborate wordplay or literary device.

With that in mind, and to the person responsible for the Welsh Conservatives’ social media post, Badger says this:

F**K OFF AND GO AND PLAY YOUR POISONOUS F*****G GAMES SOMEWHERE ELSE, YOU SAD SACK OF SH*TE.

Badger hopes that makes his point abundantly clear.

a T’S on

wHLaughing through life: The Tigerface Show

PREPARE to embark on a whimsical journey down memory lane at Torch Theatre’s upcoming comedy extravaganza, The Tigerface Show, hitting the stage on Friday, April 19, 2024. For just £15.00, immerse yourself in a riot of colours, puppets, and pure nostalgic delight. Ever pondered what you dreamt of becoming as a child? Enter TigerFace, our protagonist, grappling with adult cynicism as he endeavours to recreate the final episode of his cherished childhood TV series. Accompanied by his pals The Dream Maker and Fast Hands, the jungle’s very own BSL interpreter, TigerFace leads us into a world

where absurdity reigns supreme.

As the performance unfolds, prepare for an interactive rollercoaster of emotions, blending moments of pure joy with a touch of melancholy. Brace yourself for a concoction of one-part misery and two-parts bliss, where every twist and turn is met with a ragged-scream partypiece. And yes, while there’s no complimentary Piña Colada awaiting you (apologies for the disappointment), there’s an abundance of laughter to compensate.

The Tigerface Show is a poignant exploration of adult aspirations and childhood dreams. It challenges us to reassess our ambitions and rediscover the simple

joys of youth in the complexities of adulthood.

Please note, due to mature themes encompassing mental health, alcohol, swearing, and adult content, we recommend the show for those aged 16 and above. Additionally, rest assured that our commitment to accessibility is unwavering; all performances feature BSL interpretation, and closed captioning can be arranged with prior booking.

For an evening of laughter, reflection, and sheer entertainment, join us at Torch Theatre for The Tigerface Show. Contact the Box Office to secure your tickets and make any special arrangements.

Robin Morgan sparks laughter with hilarious new tour

ROBIN MORGAN is hitting the road once again with his uproarious new show, “The Spark,” embarking on his most extensive tour yet, spanning 33 dates across the nation.

Renowned for his wit and charm, Morgan, featured on BBC Two’s “Mock The Week” and BBC Radio 4’s “The News Quiz,” promises an evening filled with laughter and insight at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, on Saturday, 21st September, starting at 7.30pm.

Described by Chortle as “bloody funny, well-written, hardworking stand-up from a massively likeable performer who must surely be on the verge of nationwide fame,” Morgan’s previous shows delved into themes ranging from proposal and marriage to kids and vasectomy. Now, he’s turning his attention to a different facet of relationships –maintaining the spark.

But what exactly does it take to keep that

spark alive, not just in a relationship but within oneself? Morgan offers his perspective, having embarked on a journey of self-improvement, from hitting the gym to indulging in selfcare rituals like Tarot readings and mastering the art of air-frying – his definition of self-care.

Despite growing less concerned about others’ opinions, Morgan remains refreshingly self-aware, regaling audiences with moments of embarrassment that punctuate his life, ensuring there’s no shortage of relatable anecdotes in his repertoire.

With his previous shows centred around others, Morgan now turns the spotlight on himself – and his trusty air-fryer.

Since his last tour, Morgan has been anything but idle. He’s created and hosts the topical comedy panel show “What Just Happened?” for BBC Radio Wales, supported notable acts such as Adam Kay and Sophie

McCartney on their nationwide tours, and lent his writing prowess to acclaimed shows like “Have I Got News For You” and “Bake Off: The Professionals.”

His comedic talent has also found favour on popular programmes like “Mock The Week” and “The Now Show,” earning him a reputation as a favourite on “The News Quiz,” with one episode even drawing complaints from the government.

Morgan’s versatility extends beyond standup; he’s ventured into acting, making his debut in “This England” alongside luminaries like Sir Kenneth Branagh. His writing credits boast an impressive array of shows, from quiz programmes to Netflix originals.

Adding to his accolades, Morgan has warmed up studio audiences for “The Graham Norton Show” and supported fellow comedians like Ellie Taylor and Iain Stirling on their nationwide tours, showcasing

his ability to entertain across various platforms.

With glowing reviews like “an hour of bellyhurting chortles” from Mumble Comedy and accolades such as “wonderfully cheeky and engaging” from Three Weeks, Morgan’s “The Spark” promises an evening of laughter and entertainment not to be missed. As Broadway Baby attests, he’s a “phenomenal comic –

utterly hilarious,” delivering an “excellent piece of comedy” that’s highly recommended by Deadline News.

‘A NOTHER

CURTAIN CALL’ is Mansel Davies’s second solo album, following on from ‘Breaking Bread’ (2022).

Mansel is a fine songwriter. These songs are quality in musicianship, well produced. Mansel certainly knows what he is doing. A fine craftsman of song.

Another Curtain Call is a country collection of songs, no doubt about it. For me, whilst Mansell is a competent singer and performer of song, I find his voice irritates, the country and western twang, John Prine, Mansel might like to be. John Prine he is not.

Lada Obradović

The Portrait of a Pregnant Bumblebee CD NewKlang NCD 4191

Mansel tell us, “Breaking Bread was my first journey into creating my own album and I was determined to enjoy every second. I recorded the whole album at Berry Hill Studios, guided by the wonderful John David.

“In the main it is an album of songs with an Americana/Cymricana

Amongst the notes, Mansel ‘brags’ abut the CD being of seventy minutes. Production isn’t simply about the recording, engineering and making the sound the best. Production is also editing. Bob Dylan’s best-selling record is 29 minutes long. The new disc from the Stones is around 40 minutes. Revolver from The Beatles would have been the perfect album without Yellow Submarine. An example from Mansel’s cd, Like A Byrd, is quite weak, silly introduction, better off without its inclusion.

The Eddy Soundtrack to the Netflix Series

Arista CD LP Download

Rarely would I review a soundtrack as music worth owning in its own right and forget the series but there are exceptions. This is one of them. The series The Eddy, was a bit weak, more like a movie story used as an excuse to provide a film track for the musicians! Within the Eddy, the music, the musicians performing are exceptional.

Amongst them is Randy Kerber, appearing in the series, he plays piano and acts a small part. Randy’s name meant nothing to

John Eliot

me, but I would have seen it many times if I had read the credits of films. As a studio keyboardist, Kerber has worked on over 800 motion pictures including Titanic, A Beautiful Mind, and the first three films of the Harry Potter franchise. Randy Kerber composed the soundtrack for The Eddy. He shows his brilliance as a composer in being to write music for jazz musicians in a small Paris jazz club. It would have been very easy for the director simply to use jazz standards. Here though

slant. Songs of love and loss, occasional political viewpoint, and songs with a strong narrative. It’s a fair bit chunkier than the first album, running around 1 hr 10 min, so make sure you have time on your hands before sitting down to listen!”

Musicians: Brendan

Day Drums Al Thomas

Guitar Rik Lawton Sax

Owen Firminger Guitar

Marco James Piano

Hammond Organ

Leon Hunt Banjo Dave

Walker Harmonica

Beth Mansel Vocals

Kate Mansel Vocals

Another Curtain Call is due for release mid-May 2024 on CD and download.

we have new, original, classic jazz.

This is ably performed by quality musicians including, Joanna Kulig, a Polish actress and singer. Joanna provides excellent vocals to the accessible jazz soundtrack. French born Ludovic Louis plays trumpet and flugelhorn on the soundtrack and maybe better known for his appearance in the film Babylon.

Supergroups used to be the rage at one time but with Lada Obradovic, Jowee Omicil and Damian Nueva Cortes and those mentioned above this is an opportunity to hear a jazz supergroup

I first came across Lada Obradović in the Netflix series The Eddy. The story was about an avant garde jazz band playing in a Paris club, The Eddy. Mafia in Paris. A rather weak story, but a vehicle for wonderful jazz. The soundtrack is excellent. I’m not here to review that soundtrack but The Portrait of a Pregnant Bumblebee from Lada Obradović project.

This is late night jazz; except I’m listening at 6 a.m. and loving it. All compositions are from Lada. It is not ‘guess that tune jazz’, which I sometimes find with Miles Davis. The music has atmospheric feeling, it is also alive, there is rhythm, there is quiet. You could sit and read to this, you could dance, or a soundtrack to a dinner party. It is for lovers of music. As I’m typing this I’m going with the swing of this track, Awkward World – the last one I will have to play it again. Here it is, Scream. This begins and is so so beautiful. Beginning with the Vibraphone from Matthias Legner,

John Eliot Guest Writer

and see them perform within the series. The jazz heard here is as one would imagine from a Paris Jazz club.

Great tracks to chase up on Spotify and the likes are the title track

The Eddy, East Paris, Open To Persuasion

and then piano David Tixier, saxophone Maxime Berton and the cymbal sweep of drums from Lada herself. This is quality. This is a must for those who appreciate and love quality music. Available on all fomats.

and what I can only think will become a jazz classic Kiss Me In The Morning.

John Eliot Guest Writer

Guest Writer

‘This Town’ hits on BBC

WHEN faced with tales of bands forming on screen, my expectations tend to plummet faster than a lead balloon. I brace myself for clichéd “Let’s put the show on right here!” vibes, akin to Billy Zane’s infamous line in Titanic –“Something Picasso? He won’t amount to a thing!”

So it was with a heavy heart that I approached This Town, the latest creation from Steven Knight, renowned for Peaky Blinders. It delves into the birth of an 80s new wave band, stirred by the preceding waves of ska, reggae, two tone, and punk, with musical tracks crafted by record producer and songwriter Dan Carey and poet Kae Tempest. I felt weary before the curtain even rose.

Yet, as is often the case, initial impressions can deceive. This Town emerges as a masterful piece of storytelling, brimming with intelligence, ambition, and heart – tinged with a borderline anarchic spirit – that easily surpasses any preconceptions. Admittedly, it takes some adjusting to, as anything groundbreaking does. There’s an abundance of poetry, particularly in voiceover, especially in the

early stages, which occasionally feels overwhelming. However, from the outset, it captivates, and by the third episode, it finds its footing, injecting moments of levity amidst escalating tensions among the characters, as stakes rise and consequences loom.

At its core lies Dante (Levi Brown), a Birmingham college student and budding poet. Initially portrayed as a gentle, somewhat eccentric soul nursing a broken heart, Dante’s journey unfolds alongside his friend Jeannie (Eve Austin), a music composer devoid of lyrical prowess. Instead of diving headfirst into predictable romances, we’re treated to the saga of an intricate family dynamic – one marked by love, haunted by demons, entangled with the IRA, fractured yet resilient – with the band emerging as a byproduct of this intricate web. It’s a meditation on art as an escape, on suffering and despair as the forge in which talent is tempered into genius.

Dante’s cousin Bardon (Ben Rose) resides in Coventry under the thumb of his domineering father, Eamonn, deeply entrenched in the local IRA.

Through their family, including Bardon’s mother Estella (Michelle Dockery) and grandmother Marie

(Geraldine James), we’re granted a rare glimpse into the toll exacted by living under the shadow of a terrorist organisation – where fear permeates every facet of life, and normalcy is but a distant dream. Meanwhile, Dante’s older brother Gregory (Jordan Bolger), a soldier stationed in Belfast, adds further complexity, navigating a fraught path between duty and family loyalty amidst the turmoil of a funeral under surveillance.

In a narrative twist, gangster Robbie Carmen (portrayed with chilling menace by David Dawson) emerges, setting up a new music venue as a thinly veiled front for drug trafficking. His presence, though brief, casts a long shadow, culminating in a scene of such visceral intensity that it elicits a physical reaction.

While the performances are uniformly superb, Brown’s portrayal of Dante, in his debut lead role, is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s a rare feat to see a character written as genuinely odd, and even rarer to find an actor who can embody that eccentricity with such nuance and humanity. Yet, the entire ensemble dives deep into Knight’s daring narrative, unearthing layers of profound heartache and wisdom.

Civil War: A journey through USA’s fractured soul

ALEX GARLAND’S latest creation, Civil War, emerges as a gripping dystopian narrative that resonates with the raw nerves of our current societal climate. Set against the backdrop of a fractured America torn asunder by conflict,

Garland masterfully sets the stage for a tale that hits close to home. From the very opening scenes, where the President, portrayed with chilling conviction by Nick Offerman, rehearses his patriotic rhetoric, the film grips the audience with its stark portrayal of a nation teetering on the edge. As Garland deftly intertwines real-world imagery with his narrative, the audience is left to fill in the chilling gaps with their own imagination.

For those concerned that Civil War might veer too closely to contemporary politics, rest assured. Garland swiftly shifts the focus away from the divisive politics of the day to the gritty reality faced by combat journalists navigating the moral quagmire of war zones. With Texas and California joining forces against the federal government, Garland crafts a narrative devoid of ideological allegiance, where survival reigns supreme. In this wartorn landscape, expertly portrayed by a stellar cast including Kirsten Dunst and Wagner Moura, there are no heroes, only individuals driven by the relentless pursuit of their next story.

Civil War transcends the confines of a mere war movie, evolving into a gripping road trip across a fractured nation. From the desolate streets of New York to the frontlines of Charlottesville and DC, Garland paints a vivid picture of a country on the brink of collapse. The palpable tension, masterfully orchestrated by Garland, keeps

audiences on the edge of their seats as our intrepid journalists navigate a world where trust is a rare commodity and danger lurks around every corner.

While Civil War excels as a suspense thriller, it occasionally stumbles in its portrayal of a world devoid of connectivity and shared reality. Questions linger about the relevance

of journalism in a society stripped bare of the comforts of modernity.

Yet, amidst the chaos, Garland’s unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war demands attention, serving as a sobering reminder of the fragility of civilisation.

In the end, Civil War is a thought-provoking exploration of the human

condition in the face of adversity. With its blend of gripping action and poignant commentary, it stands as a testament to Garland’s prowess as a storyteller. As the film makes its debut at the SXSW festival, audiences both in the US and UK are in for an unforgettable cinematic experience come April 12th.

feel GOOD - the big retreat

NESTLED within the idyllic countryside backdrop of Lawrenny in Pembrokeshire, The Big Retreat makes its eagerly anticipated return in 2024, promising four days brimming with positive vibes from May 24th to 27th.

This year’s lineup boasts a stellar array of musical talents destined to uplift spirits, featuring the likes of acclaimed artists such as Lucy Spraggan, The Feeling, Deco, Adwaith, and the Sunbirds

Elevating the feelgood factor, attendees can groove to DJ sets by Gok Wan and former Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt, alongside a nostalgic trip through the sounds of the 80s, 90s, and beyond courtesy of DJ Mother Pukka.

Food enthusiasts are in for a treat with culinary talks and demos, while thrill-seekers can indulge in wild swimming and paddleboarding on the stunning Cleddau estuary.

For those seeking tranquility, the Woodland Spa beckons with relaxing massages, or one can simply unwind in a private hot tub, soaking in the awe-inspiring vistas of the coastal national park— the only one of its kind in Britain.

The festival prides itself on being familyfriendly, offering a plethora of activities for all ages. Accommodation options range from camping and glamping to local hotels/B&Bs or even bringing your own campervan.

In the heart of Pembrokeshire’s scenic landscape, The Big Retreat 2024 is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience, blending music, wellness, and nature in perfect harmony.

But it’s not just about the music; The Big Retreat offers a holistic experience for mind and body alike. Renowned experts lead fitness and well-being sessions, while the Talk Tent buzzes with inspiring conversations and tales from authors, speakers, and adventurers.

For up to date news please check our social network channels Friday

ARIES

You may need to negotiate skillfully in various contexts such as at work or with your friends or partner to achieve harmony. You’ll have to make compromises and adjustments to cultivate happiness in all your relationships.

TAURUS

At work, you may experience some confusion and conflict. This could prompt you to start thinking about a career change. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons and get advice from those closest to you.

GEMINI

You’ll find yourself in a position to stand out. This could transform your life in the long term. Your value will be highlighted in a variety of ways, boosting your self-esteem and self-confidence.

CANCER

You may decide to move soon, especially if the family home has proved too big since your children left the nest. In your relationship, change could strengthen or rekindle your passion.

LEO

Your outspokenness will be evident as you express openly what others think in silence. A secret could leave you perplexed for a while. The Full Moon will have a revealing effect. A revelation will show you the way forward.

VIRGO

If you’re struggling financially, you could discover some interesting solutions. You’ll finally get the opportunity to invest in a project dear to your heart or, at least, to redecorate your home.

LIBRA

This will be an active and dynamic week. You may need to shake things up with certain people. Even if you prefer keeping the peace, it’s time to assert your position to reestablish harmony with those close to you.

Alright, mates, let’s delve into the enigmatic depths of Europa, a game that’s been dancing around in the recesses of my noggin since the first glimpse of its trailers.

I eagerly dived into its inaugural public demo on Steam, and let me tell ya, it’s a trip down memory lane to the glory days of ‘90s platformers, but with a chill vibe that’s got me hyped for the full drop on April 16.

Europa first grabbed my eyeballs with its trailer during the buildup to the 2022 Game Awards, flaunting its stunning art and promising concept: a journey through the terraformed Jovian moon, ripe for exploration.

The glide mechanic, the painterly aesthetics, the weathered ruins — it all gives off vibes reminiscent of classics like Breath of the Wild and Spyro the Dragon. The demo serves up a linear yet sprawling series of landscapes to glide and bounce through, peppered with shiny emeralds, glide boosts, and cryptic journal entries.

And let me tell ya, it’s a visual feast, mate. Despite its lightweight requirements, Europa’s visuals are nothing short of breathtaking.

Just chilling in Europa, soaking up the serene piano tunes and lush scenery, is an experience in itself. And all the while, you’ve got Jupiter, the big ol’ gas giant, looming in the background, adding a cosmic touch to the whole affair.

But this game’s been simmering for quite a while, popping up on our radar back in 2018 with an early teaser that’s now vanished into the digital ether.

The platforming in the demo’s a breeze, mostly serving as a tutorial for what’s to come. But don’t let that fool ya — there are some tricky spots and hidden nooks that’ll test your noggin and reflexes.

Now, the narrated journal entries from the protagonist’s old man could’ve easily been too much, but the writing really pulls it off.

Europa seems poised to be a tale of environmentalism, with hints about the sins of the past lurking on Earth and something amiss on Europa itself, judging by all the ruins strewn about.

This demo has got me buzzing for the full release. April 16 can’t come soon enough, mates. So, if you’re keen, chuck Europa on your wishlist or dive into the demo on Steam and see what all the fuss is about. Cheers!

SCORPIO

Your talents will increase tenfold, opening the door to a spiritual awakening. You’ll develop a deeper perspective and greater empathy, allowing you to see things in a new light. The artist in you could also be revealed.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ll have to deal with a multitude of emotions in a situation that requires you to keep your cool. You’ll find a creative solution to a financial issue. In love, keeping a smile on your face will help you preserve an existing relationship or attract a soulmate.

CAPRICORN

If you have a jam-packed week, make sure to space out your appointments to avoid scheduling conflicts and minimize the pressure. Time is precious; carefully manage yours.

AQUARIUS

You could decide to radically change your life on a whim. This transformation could involve going back to school or starting a new career in line with your deepest aspirations.

PISCES

The heart has its reasons, which reason knows not. Even if you try to rationalize a situation, your emotions will influence your choices. Sometimes, you must step out of your comfort zone to move in the right direction

Michael Sheen

The Assembly BBC1, 10.40pm

In a special programme to mark Autism Acceptance Week, Michael Sheen is interviewed by a cast of 35 individuals who are neurodivergent or learning disabled. No subject is out of bounds and no question is off the table as the actor is quizzed on everything from exgirlfriends and on-screen kisses to the OBE he returned and even his favourite motorway.

Abba

More Abba at the BBC BBC2, 8.35pm

It’s 50 years since the Swedish group won Eurovision with the song Waterloo, launching them towards global stardom. To mark the anniversary, BBC2 is turning over its schedule to Agnetha, AnniFrid, Benny and Bjôrn, with the new compilation More Abba at the BBC, as well as another chance to see Abba at the BBC, Abba in Switzerland and The Joy of Abba.

I Got News for You. New series. Satirical current affairs quiz, hosted by Clive Myrie.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Avoidance. New series. Jonathan’s attempt to win back Claire backfires. 11.10 The Assembly. Actor Michael Sheen is interviewed by a group of neurodivergent individuals.

11.40 Christine McGuinness: Unmasking My Autism. Christine McGuinness explores how many autistic women have gone undiagnosed. (R)

12.40 RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK Versus the World. (R) 1.50 BBC News.

6.30 The Bidding Room. (R)

7.15 Bridge of Lies. (R) 8.00

Sign Zone: Antiques Roadshow.

(R) 9.00 BBC News. 12.50

Lifeline. (R) 1.00 Impossible.

(R) 1.45 The Edge. (R) 2.30

Born to Be Wild. (R) 3.00 Jay

Blades’ Home Fix. (R) 3.45 Best

Home Cook. (R) 4.45 The Hairy

Bikers’ Pubs That Built Britain.

(R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00

Richard Osman’s House of Games. Eddie Kadi, Natasha Raskin Sharp, Charlie Stayt and Faye Tozer compete. (R)

6.30 Great British Railway

Journeys. Michael Portillo travels from Northallerton to Chester-Le-Street. Last in the series.

7.00 The One Show.

7.30

MasterChef.

8.00 Beyond Paradise. A dying woman goes missing from a local fishing trawler.

9.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through North Wales. The travellers head into Eryri National Park.

10.00 QI. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.00 Weather.

11.05 Film: I, Tonya. (2017) Biopic, starring Margot Robbie.

12.55 Sign Zone: Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R) 1.25 Gladiators. (R) 2.25

Our Flag Means Death. (R) 2.50

This Town. (R) 3.50 This Is BBC Two.

6.25 Hey Duggee. (R) 6.35 Go Jetters. (R) 6.45 Grizzy and the Lemmings. (R) 6.55 Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese. (R) 7.05

Monster Loving Maniacs. (R) 7.20

Shaun the Sheep. (R) 7.25 Quentin Blake’s Box of Treasures. (R) 7.55 Deadly Predators. (R) 8.20 Blue

Peter. 8.50 Newsround. 9.00

(R) 4.30

5.20 BBC News. 5.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 5.40 Celebrity Bridge of Lies.

6.25 The Weakest Link. Su Pollard and Bobby Seagull feature among a celebrity line-up of players. (R)

7.10 Blankety Blank. Bradley Walsh hosts the comedy quiz show. (R)

7.45 Pointless Celebrities. Starstudded general knowledge quiz, with Kate Holderness, Adele Roberts, Dave Gorman, Jarred Christmas, Cat Sandion, Martin Dougan, Matt Dawson and Martin Bayfield.

8.35 Casualty. Dylan struggles to deal with the weight of his recent mistakes.

9.25 Traces. A second explosion puts pressure on McKinven and Sarah to find and stop the bomber.

10.10 BBC News; Weather.

10.30 Match of the Day. Highlights of the latest matches.

11.55 Film: Captain Phillips. (2013) Fact-based thriller, starring Tom Hanks.

2.00 Weather for the Week Ahead.

2.05 BBC News.

Gardeners’ World. 10.00 Operation Grand Canyon with Dan Snow. (R) 11.00 Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr. (R) 12.00 Andi Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts. (R) 1.00 Digging for Britain: The Greatest Discoveries. (R) 1.30 Michael Caine: Talking Pictures. (R) 2.25

Film: The Eagle Has Landed. (1976) 4.35 Japan with Sue Perkins. (R) 5.35 Gareth Malone’s Easter Passion: The Concert. The eight singers perform Bach's St John Passion at Cardiff's Hoddinott Hall. (R) 7.35 Gardeners’ World. Adam Frost takes stock of his borders. (R) 8.35 More Abba at the BBC. Appearances by the Swedish superstars on BBC shows.

9.35 When Abba Came to Britain. The Swedish band’s relationship with the UK.

10.35 Abba at the BBC. A collection of memorable TV appearances by the group. (R)

11.35 Abba in Switzerland. The pop group’s first European TV special. (R)

12.30 The Joy of Abba. (R) 1.30

Film: So Long, My Son. (2019) 4.25 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00

Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55

ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 Riddiculous. (R) 3.00 Winning Combination. (R) 4.00

Tipping Point. (R) 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Emmerdale. Kerry brings out the naked butlers she’s hired, Matty gets emotional on his stag do, and Ruby despairs.

7.30 UEFA Euro 2025 Qualifier. England Women v Sweden Women (Kick-off 8.00pm).

All the action from both teams’ opening Group A3 match, held at Wembley Stadium.

10.15 ITV News; Weather.

10.45 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

11.00 Film: Casino Royale. (1967)

Ageing spy James Bond comes out of retirement to tackle a mysterious mastermind who wants to take over the world. Spoof adventure, with David Niven, Peter Sellers and Woody Allen.

1.15 Shop on TV. 3.00 The Life and Death of Lily Savage. Documentary paying tribute to Paul O’Grady. (R)

4.10 Unwind. Daily escape designed to calm the mind and encourage relaxation and reflection. 5.35 Made in Britain. (R)

6.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 7.30

Film: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. (1971) 9.25 ITV News. 9.30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. 11.40 Prue

Leith’s Cotswold Kitchen. 12.40

James Martin’s French Adventure. (R) 1.15 ITV News; Weather. 1.30

ITV Racing: Live from Kelso. Coverage from Kelso and Kempton Park. 4.00 You’ve Been Framed! (R) 4.30 ITV News; Weather. 4.45 ITV News

Cymru Wales; Weather. 5.00

Ninja Warrior UK: Race for Glory. Ben Shephard, Rochelle Humes and Chris Kamara host the obstacle-course challenge. (R)

6.00 Celebrity Catchphrase. With Sally Dynevor, Barney Walsh and Zoe Williams. (R)

7.00 Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway. Take That perform at the end of the show, Lenny Rush is the star guest announcer and the Geordie duo are the victims in a special edition of I’m a Celebrity Get Out of Me Ear.

8.30 The 1% Club. Quiz, hosted by Lee Mack.

9.35 The Jonathan Ross Show. With Michael Palin, Lulu, Anthony Joshua and comedian Laura Smyth.

10.35 ITV News; Weather.

10.50 Film: The 40 Year-Old Virgin. (2005) Comedy, starring Steve Carell.

12.55 Shop on TV. 3.00 The Larkins. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Prue Leith’s Cotswold Kitchen. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Gwyliau Gartref. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Bethesda: Pobol y Chwarel. (R) 1.30 Cegin Bryn. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Guinness World Records Cymru 2023. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 6.30 Parti Bwyd Beca. (R) 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Hen Dy Newydd. (R) 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Am Dro! (R) 10.00 Pêl-Droed Rhyngwladol. 11.00 Creisis. (R) 12.05 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.10 Countdown. (R) 6.50 3rd Rock from the Sun. (R) 8.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 9.30 Frasier. (R) 11.00 The Great House Giveaway. (R) 12.00 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.05 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. (R) 1.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 5.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 6.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 7.30 Michael Mosley: Secrets of Your Big Shop. (R) 8.30 Travel Man: 48 Hours in Prague. 9.00 Gogglebox. 10.00 The Last Leg. 11.05 Film: American Pie. (1999) 1.05 Film: First Love. (2019) 2.55 Car S.O.S. (R) 3.456.00 Come Dine with Me. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.45 Friends. (R) 1.35 Entertainment News. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45 Home and Away. Xander and Harper have their first date, and Theo receives his TAFE results. (R) 2.15 Film: The Woman in the Window. (2020) 4.00 BargainLoving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5. 6.00 The Cotswolds with Pam Ayres. The poet explores places surrounding the region. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 Dorset: Country and Coast. A visit to the oldest icecream parlour in Weymouth. (R) 7.55 5 News Update. 8.00 The Underground Map of Britain. A ride through the history of London’s tube network.

9.00 Susan Calman’s Great British Cities. The presenter is in Glasgow, uncovering the hidden history of her home city.

10.00 Tommy Steele: The Great Entertainer. A profile of the singer and actor. (R) 11.30 Britain’s Favourite 70s Hits. (R)

1.30 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.

3.30 Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords. (R) 4.20 Britain’s Greatest Bridges. (R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. 5.45 Milkshake! Monkey’s Amazing Adventures. (R) 5.50 Pip and Posy. (R)

6.20 Air Fryers: Sunday Lunch Made Easy. A cooking series, with Alexis Conran preparing meals in an air fryer. (R) 7.10 The Great Fog of 1952. The deadliest environmental disaster ever recorded. (R) 8.30 Secrets of the Royal Palaces. Tales of entertaining at royal residences.

9.30 Kate & The King: A Special Relationship. The special bond that has grown between King Charles and Catherine, Princess of Wales. 10.30 1983: Most Shocking Moments. A look back at key events in TV, film, showbusiness and politics.

(R) 12.25 Criminals: Caught on Camera. (R) 12.50 Entertainment News. 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 Mummies Unwrapped. (R) 3.50 The Cotswolds with Pam Ayres. (R) 4.40 Great Artists. (R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R) 5.30

Entertainment News. (R) 5.40 Milkshake! Monkey’s Amazing Adventures. (R) 5.50 Pip and Posy. (R)

6.00 Cyw. 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Stwnsh Sadwrn Byw. 8.05 Seligo. (R) 8.30 Siwrne Ni. (R) 9.05 Larfa. (R) 9.20 Lego Ffrindiau: Amdani Ferched! (R) 9.30 Pigo dy Drwyn. (R) 10.00 Mike Phillips: Croeso i Dubai. (R) 11.00 Codi Pac. (R) 11.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 12.00 Teulu Shadog: Tymhorau’r Flwyddyn. (R) 12.30 Y Fets. (R) 1.00 Am Dro! (R) 2.00 Gwyliau Gartref. (R) 2.30 Priodas Pum Mil. (R) 3.30 Y ’Sgubor Flodau. (R) 4.30 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) 5.00 Ralïo+. 5.30 Hen Dy Newydd. (R) 6.30 Pêl-Droed Rhyngwladol. (R) 7.30 Newyddion a Chwaraeon. 7.45 Rygbi Ewrop. Ospreys v Sale Sharks (Kick-off 8.00pm). 10.05 Guinness World Records Cymru 2024. (R) 11.05 Curadur. (R) 11.40 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.00 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 7.15 The Simpsons. (R) 11.10 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix Qualifying Highlights. 12.40 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 1.40 Four in a Bed. (R) 4.15 Worst House on the Street. (R) 5.15 The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up to Cancer. (R) 6.30 Channel 4 News. 7.00 Bettany Hughes’ Treasures of the World. 8.00 Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker. 9.00 Film: The Lost City. (2022) 11.10 Film: Under Siege. (1992) 1.05 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 1.55 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 2.50 Car S.O.S. (R) 3.40 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 4.00-6.00 Hollyoaks Omnibus. (R) 6.00 Milkshake! 8.50 SpongeBob SquarePants. (R) 9.05 Entertainment News. 9.15 The Yorkshire Vet. (R) 9.40 22 Kids & Counting. (R) 11.45 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (R) 1.45 Film: The Wizard of Oz. (1939) 3.45 Film: Ocean’s Twelve. (2004) 6.15 5 News Weekend.

BBC Four 7.00 Rick Stein’s Long Weekends

8.00 Amazon with Bruce Parry 9.00

Film: Everything Went Fine (2021) 10.50 Peter Sellers: A State of Comic Ecstasy

ITV2 4.55 Film: Jumanji (1995) 7.00 Film: The Addams Family (1991) 9.00

Milkshake!:

Levi Brown

This Town BBC1, 9pm

It remains to be seen whether Steven Knight’s drama will capture viewers’ imaginations in the same way as his hit series Peaky Blinders. However, it is no doubt giving a nostalgic thrill to anyone who’s the right age to remember the 1980s music scene it depicts. In this latest episode, skinhead Tyro is searching out Dante to avenge his beating.

Claire Goose

The Cuckoo Channel 5, 9pm

Ingleby play Jessica and Nick, a married couple who relocate to the countryside with their daughter Alice. The family has been struggling financially and hope the move will help them get back on an even keel. Nevertheless, they still need help to pay their debts, so take in lodger Sian, whose quickly-formed bonds with Jessica and Alice make Nick suspicious.

home to a globally important collection of 2,500 different tree species.

7.00 Mammals. How mammals are adapting to the changes in their environment.

8.00 Antiques Roadshow. Fiona Bruce presents the show from Sefton Park in Liverpool. (R)

9.00 This Town. Skinhead Tyro seeks out Dante to avenge his beating.

10.00 BBC News; Weather.

10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.30 Match of the Day 2. Including Manchester United v Liverpool.

11.30 Film: Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. (2011) Cold War espionage thriller, starring Gary Oldman.

1.30 Weather for the Week Ahead.

1.35 BBC News.

Under

(R) 12.15 Bargain Hunt. 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Clive Myrie’s Italian Road Trip. (R) 2.15 Money for Nothing. (R) 3.00 Escape to the

(R)

5.15 Pointless.

of

BBC News at Six; Weather. 6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 7.00 SOS: Extreme Rescues. A thrill-seeker fears he has led his fiancée to her death on an icy mountain. Last in the series.

7.30 EastEnders. Johnny represents Sharon as she is re-questioned by the police.

8.00 Wynne’s Welsh 80s. Wynne Evans explores the BBC Wales archives of 1988.

8.30 NHS Patients Going Private: What Are the Risks? –Panorama. Report on a private hospital chain being used to help clear the NHS waiting lists.

9.00 MasterChef. John Torode and Gregg Wallace introduce a new challenge.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Have I Got a Bit More News for You. (R)

11.20 Film: The Martian. (2015) Ridley Scott’s sci-fi drama, starring Matt Damon.

1.35 Weather for the Week Ahead.

1.40 BBC News.

6.35 Countryfile. (R) 7.30

Breakfast. 9.00 Beechgrove Garden. 9.30 Landward. 10.00

Heligan: Secrets of the Lost Garden. (R) 11.00 Marcus

Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. (R) 12.00 Film: Julius Caesar. (1953) 2.00 Film: Guys and Dolls. (1955) 4.25 Italy’s Invisible Cities. (R) 5.25 Japan with Sue Perkins. Part two of two. Sue travels to the ancient city of Kyoto to spend time with geishas. (R)

6.25 Flog It! From the RAF Museum in Hendon, north London. (R)

7.00 This Farming Life. Carianne searches for the mother of an abandoned newborn calf on the isle of Vallay. Rachel and Camy John and Heather help to deliver their beltex lambs. (R)

8.00 Burma with Simon Reeve.

Part one of two. Documentary exploring the country. (R)

9.00 The Darkest Days: IsraelGaza Six Months On. The consequences of Hamas’s murderous rampage through southern Israel in October.

10.00 Film: On Chesil Beach. (2017) Romantic drama, starring Saoirse Ronan.

11.45 Film: Eternal Beauty. (2019) Romantic comedy drama, starring Sally Hawkins.

1.15 Sign Zone: This Town. (R)

2.15 Mandy. (R) 2.45 The Assembly. (R) 3.15 This Is BBC Two.

6.30 Money for Nothing. (R) 7.15 Bridge of Lies. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: MasterChef. (R) 9.00 BBC News.

1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 The Edge. (R) 2.30 Lose Weight and Get Fit with Tom Kerridge. (R) 3.00

Jay Blades’ Home Fix. (R) 3.45

Best Home Cook. (R) 4.45 The Hairy Bikers’ Pubs That Built Britain. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Toby Anstis, Kerry Howard, Evelyn Mok and Joe Sugg. (R)

6.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. New series. Michael Portillo sets out to explore the shores of Britain.

7.00 The One Show. Lauren Laverne and Jermaine Jenas present topical stories and celebrity chat.

7.30 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. Bob and Paul fish for wild carp in Mid Wales. (R)

8.00 Only Connect. (R)

8.30 University Challenge.

9.00 Meet the Roman Emperor with Mary Beard. An insight into the lives of the emperors of Rome.

10.00 Alma’s Not Normal. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Film: The Two Faces of January. (2014) Thriller, starring Viggo Mortensen.

12.45 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R)

1.40 MasterChef. (R) 2.40 Martin

Compston’s Norwegian Fling. (R)

3.10 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 James Martin’s Spanish

Adventure. (R) 7.00 Film: Casino Royale. (1967) 9.25 ITV News.

9.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. 11.35 ITV News; Weather. 11.50 Live Champions Cup Rugby. Northampton Saints v Munster. 2.50 You’ve Been Framed! (R) 3.20 Film: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. (2005)

Children's fantasy, starring Johnny Depp. 5.30 The 1% Club. (R)

6.30 ITV News; Weather.

6.45 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

7.00 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars. With Phil Tufnell, Colin Jackson and Lisa Riley. (R)

8.00 Paul O’Grady’s Great Elephant Adventure. Part two of two. The presenter concludes his South East Asian trip. 9.00 Passenger. As Kane faces a grilling from Riya, Linda has other ideas about how best to spend police time. Meanwhile, Ali and Nish trace Mehmet’s footsteps.

10.05 ITV News; Weather.

10.20 Unbelievable Moments Caught on Camera. Police officers rescue a mother and baby from under a car wreckage. (R)

11.15 English Football League Highlights. Peterborough United v Wycombe Wanderers.

12.15 Shop on TV. 3.00 Britain’s Strictest Headmistress. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Fletchers’ Family Farm. (R)

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

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55

ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 Alan Titchmarsh’s Gardening Club. 3.00 Winning Combination. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point. (R) 5.00

The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Emmerdale. Cain puts an end to Ruby’s plan, Claudette makes a suggestion, Billy commits to a new idea, and Charles and Manpreet get caught up in a lie.

8.00 Coronation Street. Dylan plans to do a runner rather than testify against Mason, Sam defies Nick to pay Roy a secret visit, and Ryan refuses to console a despondent Daisy.

9.00 Passenger. Riya loses faith in her entire investigation. Last in the series.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Mel Giedroyc and Martin Clunes Explore Britain by the Book. The duo explore locations made famous by books and films. (R)

11.45 English Football League Highlights. Action from the latest fixtures.

12.55 Shop on TV. 3.00 Next Level

Chef. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw. 9.00 Y Castell. (R) 10.00 Waliau’n Siarad. (R) 11.05 Teulu Shadog: Tymhorau’r Flwyddyn. (R) 11.40 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R) 12.45 Cwpan Adran 1. Llanelli Wanderers v Glynneath (Kick-off 1.00pm). 3.00 Cwpan y Bencampwriaeth. Bargoed v Ystrad Rhondda (Kick-off 3.15pm). 5.15 Cwpan yr Uwch Gynghrair. Llandovery v Merthyr (Kick-off 5.35pm).

7.45 Newyddion a Chwaraeon. 8.00 Côr Cymru 2024: Corau Ieuenctid. The youth category in this year’s choral competition. 9.00 Creisis. A pack of drugs has gone missing from the unit. 10.00 Gogglebocs Cymru. Viewers' thoughts on the week's TV. (R) 11.00 Y Ditectif. (R) 11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.00 The King of Queens. (R) 7.15 The Simpsons. (R) 9.30 Sunday Brunch.

Key to a Fortune. 6.15 Channel 4 News. 6.45 Inside the Superbrands. (R) 7.40 The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up to Cancer. 9.00 Hunted. 10.00 Gogglebox. (R) 12.00 Film: A Time

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Dim Byd i’w Wisgo. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 1.30 Caeau Cymru. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Y Castell. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Sain Ffagan. (R) 6.30 Rownd a Rownd. (R) 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Cysgu O Gwmpas. 8.25 Garddio a Mwy. 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Teulu Shadog: Tymhorau’r Flwyddyn. 9.30 Sgorio. 10.00 Windrush: Rhwng Dau Fyd. (R) 11.00 Dylan ar Daith. (R) 12.05 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.10 Countdown. (R) 6.50 3rd Rock from the Sun. (R) 8.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 9.30 Frasier. (R) 11.00 Work on the Wild Side. (R) 12.00 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.05 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. (R) 1.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 5.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 6.00 A Place in the Sun. 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 Grand Indian Hotel. 9.00 Defiance: Fighting the Far Right. 10.00 24 Hours in Police Custody. (R) 11.05 Night Coppers. (R) 12.05 Surviving R Kelly. 12.55 Warren Jeffs: Prophet of Evil.

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.45 Friends. (R)

Claire Goose and Lee

Chris and Anita

Aldi’s Next Big Thing

Channel 4, 8pm

The mash-up of MasterChef, Dragons’ Den, The Apprentice and Inside the Factory returned last week with presenters Anita Rani and Chris Bavin meeting Stormzy’s personal chef, an event caterer and two sibling butchers coming up with ideas on ready meals, multicoloured burgers and an ‘unholy trinity’ of meats. Tonight, it’s bakery week.

Channel 4, 9pm

Every year, thousands of us spend our cash on home renovations in the hope of improving our domestic environment, but some are left heartbroken by handymen and builders who leave them in the lurch. In a new series made by Reese Witherspoon’s production company, the former X Factor finalist is trying to help some of them.

With Lauren Laverne and Jermaine Jenas.

EastEnders. Linda reels when she hears the new plan and George prepares to testify at Eddie's trial. Harvey steals Jade's pill box to confront Dean who manages to twist the narrative.

8.00 Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr. The remaining designers are challenged to turn a rental apartment into a personalised, homely space without losing their deposit at the end of the tenancy.

9.00 Tree on a Hill. Sgt Ruth Ellis is called to investigate Glyn’s torched truck.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 The Dropout. Elizabeth and Sunny come under scrutiny from the Wall Street Journal.

11.25 The Dropout. Elizabeth and Sunny face a reckoning. Last in the series.

12.15 Weather for the Week Ahead.

12.20 BBC News.

6.30 The Bidding Room. (R) 7.15

Bridge of Lies. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Sort Your Life Out with Stacey

Solomon. (R) 9.00 BBC News. 1.00

BBC News. 1.35 BBC News; BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Clive

Myrie’s Italian Road Trip. (R) 2.15

Money for Nothing. (R) 3.00 Jay

Blades’ Home Fix. (R) 3.45 Best

Home Cook. (R) 4.45 The Hairy

Bikers’ Pubs That Built Britain. (R)

5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Toby Anstis, Kerry Howard, Evelyn Mok and Joe Sugg. (R)

6.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys.

7.00 Britain’s Biggest Dig. The excavation of a Georgian cemetery to make way for the HS2 rail link. (R)

8.00 Saving Lives at Sea. The Queensferry RNLI crew drag a barely conscious man out of the water.

9.00 QI XL. Host Sandi Toksvig goes to University.

9.45 Live at the Apollo. Tom Allen introduces sets from Rosie Jones and Kae Kurd. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Film: Molly’s Game. (2017) Drama, starring Jessica Chastain.

1.25 Sign Zone: Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr. (R) 2.25

Pilgrimage: The Road Through North Wales. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.

6.30 Money for Nothing. (R) 7.15 Bridge of Lies. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: MasterChef. (R) 8.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)

9.00 BBC News. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 The Edge. (R) 2.30 Lose

Weight and Get Fit with Tom Kerridge. (R) 3.00 Jay Blades’ Home Fix. (R) 3.45 Best Home

Cook. (R) 4.45 The Hairy Bikers’

Pubs That Built Britain. (R) 5.15

Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Toby Anstis, Kerry Howard, Evelyn Mok and Joe Sugg. (R)

6.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys.

The Repair Shop. New series. Experts restore a pair of cowboy boots, a glass lamp and a Saz. 9.00 Race Across the World. New series. Five teams begin their race from Japan to Lombok. 10.00 BBC News at Ten. 10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 The Aunties. Following a group of women from Bradford who are trying to keep traditions alive.

11.30 Pointless Celebrities. Contestants include Kate Holderness, Adele Roberts and Dave Gorman. (R)

12.20 Celebrity Bridge of Lies. (R)

1.05 Weather for the Week Ahead.

1.10 BBC News.

7.00 Britain’s Biggest Dig. The search of the lost remains of an explorer and a champion boxer. (R)

8.00 Andi Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts. Andi Oliver throws a party in the East Yorkshire seaside town of Bridlington.

9.00 Surgeons: At the Edge of Life. Surgeons operate to remove multiple tumours in a patient’s pancreas and liver.

10.00 Mandy.

10.15 Mandy.

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Meet the Roman Emperor with Mary Beard. (R)

12.15 Pilgrimage: The Road

Through North Wales. (R) 1.15

Sign Zone: Make It at Market. (R)

2.00 Bring the Drama. (R) 3.00

This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00

Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55

ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 Riddiculous. (R) 3.00

Winning Combination. (R) 4.00

Tipping Point. (R) 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 UEFA Euro 2025 Qualifier. Republic of Ireland v England (Kick-off 7.30pm). All the action from both teams’ second match in Group A3, held at Aviva Stadium.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Paul O’Grady’s Great Elephant Adventure. Part two of two. The presenter heads south near the beaches of Hua Hin to the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, the country’s biggest wildlife hospital. (R)

11.40 Sorry, I Didn’t Know. Desiree Burch, Nick Helm, Tez Ilyas and Sikisa join team leaders Chizzy Akudolu and Eddie Kadi to answer questions about black history. Jimmy Akingbola hosts. (R)

12.05 Shop on TV. 3.00 The Jonathan Ross Show. (R) 3.55

Unwind. 5.10 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00

Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55

ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 Riddiculous. (R) 3.00

Winning Combination. (R) 4.00

Tipping Point. (R) 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Marlon struggles to comfort Rhona.

8.00 Coronation Street. Stu puts himself at risk to help Roy.

9.00 Professor T. A prison officer is found dead.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Ramadan: A Journey Across Britain. Shehab Khan delves into Islam’s holy month of Ramadan.

11.25 Heathrow: Britain’s Busiest Airport. Border officers Kat and Tracy help a student from India. (R)

11.50 Sorry, I Didn’t Know. With Desiree Burch, Nick Helm, Tez Ilyas and Sikisa. (R)

12.15 English Football League

Highlights. 1.25 Shop on TV. 3.00

Priced Out? The Rising Costs of Your Car – Tonight. (R) 3.25

Fishing Allstars. (R) 3.50 Unwind.

5.05 Alan Titchmarsh’s Gardening Club. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Pobol y Penwythnos. (R) 1.30 Teulu Shadog: Tymhorau’r Flwyddyn. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05

Ty am Ddim. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. 6.00 Pêl-Droed Rhyngwladol. 7.00 Heno.

7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Pobol y Cwm. 8.25 Rownd a Rownd.

Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: Deadly Engagement. (2023) (R) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5. 6.00 The Cotswolds with Pam Ayres. The poet’s journey begins at Longleat House in Wiltshire. (R) 6.55 5 News Update. 7.00 Kate & The King: A Special Relationship. The special bond that has grown between King Charles and Kate, Princess of Wales. (R) 7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. Graeme Hall helps rehomed and rescue dogs. Last in the series. 9.00 The Cuckoo. Sian’s arrival starts to destabilise the family.

10.00 Stalked: Murder in Slow Motion. A woman shot dead in the department store where she worked. Last in the series. (R) 11.05 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts. The casualty department is full. Last in the series. (R) 12.05 999: Critical Condition. (R)

8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Ar Brawf. 10.00 Pêl-Droed Rhyngwladol. (R) 11.00 Heliwr. 12.10 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.10 Countdown. (R) 6.50 3rd Rock from the Sun. (R) 8.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 9.30 Frasier. (R) 11.00 Work on the Wild Side. (R) 12.00 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.05 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. (R) 1.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 5.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 6.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 Aldi’s Next Big Thing. 9.00 Night Coppers. 10.00 Defiance: Fighting the Far Right. 11.05 India 1947: Partition in Colour. (R) 12.10 Random Acts. 12.15 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 1.10 Taskmaster. (R) 6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.45 Friends. (R) 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.

6.00 Cyw. (R) 11.00 Dysgu Gyda Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Colleen Ramsey: Bywyd a Bwyd. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Byd o Liw: Arlunwyr. (R)

1.30 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 2.00

Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Arctig Gwyllt Iolo Williams. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Caeau Cymru. (R) 6.30 Sgorio. (R) Newyddion S4C. 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Pobol y Cwm. 8.25 Y Sîn. 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Y Lein – Streic Friction Dynamics. 10.00 Jess Davies. (R) 10.30 Teulu’r Castell. (R) 11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 8.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 9.30 Frasier. (R) 11.00 Work on the Wild Side. (R) 12.00 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.05 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. (R) 1.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 5.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 6.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations. 9.00 Stacey Solomon’s Renovation Rescue. 10.00 Defiance: Fighting the Far Right. 11.05 India 1947: Partition in Colour. (R) 12.10 Random Acts. 12.15 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.45 Friends. (R) 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45 Home and Away. Mali is confronted by Eden trying to figure out what's going on with her brother. (R) 2.15 Film: Living Next To Danger. (2023) Thriller, starring Claire Coffee. 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5. 6.00 The Cotswolds with Pam Ayres. The poet heads to Stow-on-the Wold. (R) 6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 Shop Smart, Save Money. Gaby Roslin and Ortis Deley look at ways to keep a home ship shape.

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Air Fryers: Batch Cooking Made Easy. Alexis Conran shows how the gadget can make batch cooking easier, and celebrities reveal assorted tips for using the air fryer.

9.00 The Cuckoo. Alice becomes the centre of Sian’s manipulations.

10.00 Lost Boy: The Killing of James Bulger. The abduction and murder of James Bulger. (R) 12.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (R) 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00

VE Day: The Lost Films. (R) 3.50

Lighthouses: Building the Impossible. (R) 4.40 Great Artists. (R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. (R) 5.40 Fireman Sam. (R) 5.50 Pip and Posy. (R)

BBC Four 7.00 India’s Frontier Railways 8.00 Himalaya with Michael Palin 9.00

Henry VIII’s Enforcer: The Rise and Fall of Thomas Cromwell 10.00

Clocking Off ITV2

4.00 Dawson’s Creek 5.00 Dress to Impress 6.00 Celebrity Catchphrase 7.00 Family Fortunes

Stacey Solomon’s Renovation Rescue

Stacey Solomon

THURSDAY’S TV 11.4.24

ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL CHOICE

Greg Davies

Taskmaster

Channel 4, 9pm

We’re three episodes in, so in theory we should have an idea now who is good at lateral thinking, and who is so incredibly impractical, they wind up their fellow contestants during the team tasks. However, there are still some unanswered questions that this episode should answer, including will Steve Pemberton’s no-vowels gamble pay off, and why is Joanne McNally sniffing Little Alex Horne’s beard?

Joe Lycett

Late Night Lycett

Channel 4, 10pm

The second series of the entertainment extravaganza begins, as Joe Lycett returns to his home town Birmingham. In the first run, some of the biggest names in the showbiz world came to Digbeth to meet the host.

“The first series of Late Night Lycett was the most fun I’ve ever had making TV,” Joe says. ”I can’t wait to go bigger and wilder in Series 2.”

BBC1 BBC2

6.00 Breakfast. 9.30 Morning Live.

10.45 Big Little Crimes. 11.15

Homes Under the Hammer. (R)

12.15 Bargain Hunt. (R) 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Clive Myrie’s Italian Road Trip. (R) 2.15

Money for Nothing. 3.00 Escape to the Country. (R) 3.45 The Bidding Room. 4.30 Bridge of Lies. 5.15 Pointless.

6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

7.00 The One Show. Live chat and topical reports, hosted by Clara Amfo and Roman Kemp.

7.30 EastEnders. George takes a trip down memory lane.

8.00 MasterChef. John Torode and Gregg Wallace task six contenders with taking an everyday ingredient from “basic to brilliant”. Four also complete a task in which whole quail are the centrepiece.

9.00 The Apprentice. The candidates face the interview phase.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Wreck. Jamie and Vivian’s morals are put to the test. (R)

11.25 Wreck. The gang races against time to escape with their lives. Last in the series. (R)

12.10 Weather for the Week Ahead.

12.15 BBC News.

6.00 Breakfast. 9.30 Morning Live. 10.45 Big Little Crimes. 11.15 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 12.15 Bargain Hunt. 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Hope Street. 2.30 Clive Myrie’s Italian Road Trip. (R) 3.00 Escape to the Country. (R) 3.45 The Bidding Room. (R) 4.30 Bridge of Lies. 5.15 Pointless.

6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

7.00 The One Show. Live chat and topical reports, hosted by Clara Amfo and Roman Kemp.

7.30 Amy Dowden’s Dare to Dance. A football-mad bride and groom seek to impress with their first dance. Last in the series.

8.00 Beyond Paradise. A priest at a Catholic boarding school goes missing.

9.00 Have I Got News for You. Professor Hannah Fry hosts the satirical current affairs quiz.

9.30 Avoidance. Jonathan spies on Claire’s boyfriend and goes on an actual real-life date.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Film: The Heat. (2013) Action comedy, starring Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy.

12.30 Weather for the Week Ahead.

12.35 BBC News.

6.30 Escape to the Country. (R)

7.15 Bridge of Lies. (R) 8.00 Sign

Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00

BBC News. 1.00 Impossible. (R)

1.45 The Edge. (R) 2.30 Lose

Weight and Get Fit with Tom Kerridge. (R) 3.00 Jay Blades’

Home Fix. (R) 3.45 Italy’s Invisible Cities. (R) 4.45 The Best Dishes Ever. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Toby Anstis, Kerry Howard, Evelyn Mok and Joe Sugg. (R)

6.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys.

7.00 Britain’s Biggest Dig. How Birmingham became one of the most important industrial cities on the planet. (R)

8.00 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder visit Nusfjord Arctic Resort in Norway. (R)

9.00 Alexander McQueen: A Life in Ten Pictures. A journey through Alexander McQueen’s life in 10 defining photos.

9.55 Natural World. (R)

10.00 The Apprentice: You’re Fired.

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Surgeons: At the Edge of Life. (R)

12.15 Sign Zone: Dragons’ Den. (R) 1.15 Saving Lives at Sea. (R)

2.15 Beyond Paradise. (R) 3.15 This Is BBC Two.

6.15 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 7.15 Bridge of Lies. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Antiques Roadshow. (R) 9.00 BBC News. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 The Edge. (R) 2.30 Lose Weight and Get Fit with Tom Kerridge. (R)

3.00 Jay Blades’ Home Fix. (R)

3.45 Italy’s Invisible Cities. (R)

4.45 The Best Dishes Ever. (R)

5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Toby Anstis, Kerry Howard, Evelyn Mok and Joe Sugg. (R)

6.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. Michael Portillo visits the Isles of Scilly.

7.00 Grand Tours of Scotland’s Rivers.

7.30 MasterChef.

8.00 Gardeners’ World. Monty Don plants up a seating area filled with night-scented plants.

9.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through North Wales. The travellers’ last leg begins outside Eryri national park. Last in the series.

10.00 QI. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.00 Weather.

11.05 Film: The Power of the Dog. (2021) Western, starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

1.05 Sign Zone: NHS Patients Going Private: What Are the Risks?

– Panorama. (R) 1.35 This Town. (R) 2.30 Our Flag Means Death. (R)

3.00 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00

Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55

ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 ITV Racing: Grand National Festival. Coverage of day one from Aintree. 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Kerry makes a big decision.

8.30 Wales This Week. Dot Davies reports on second homes and the tourism industry.

9.00 The Twelve. The Crown calls Claire’s best friend, Amita, to the stand. As the trial gets more complex, so too does the jury room dynamics, as their personal lives become increasingly entangled.

10.05 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.35 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.50 Fly Tipping: Britain’s Rubbish Nightmare –Tonight. A report on why so much rubbish is being dumped across Britain.

11.20 Face to Face. Adrian Masters speaks to LGBT rights campaigner Lisa Power. (R)

11.50 All Elite Wrestling: Rampage. Hard-hitting wrestling action. (R)

12.50 Shop on TV. 3.00 The Twelve. (R) 3.55 Unwind. 5.10 The Best of Saint & Greavsie. (R)

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

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55

ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 ITV Racing: Grand National Festival. Coverage of day two from Aintree. 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Coast & Country. Sean Fletcher and Ruth Dodsworth meet a sand artist, explore an old woollen mill, and talk to a man who has built his own castle.

7.30 Emmerdale. Rhona’s fate hangs in the balance, Kerry is gutted and Ruby is incensed.

8.00 Coronation Street. Roy’s house guest turns out to be an impostor, Maria catches Gary lending Sarah a shoulder to cry on, Simon impresses Leanne with his business proposal.

9.00 The Twelve. The Crown raises questions about Kate Lawson’s provocative artwork, as well as revealing a complicated mental health diagnosis.

10.05 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.35 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.50 DNA Journey. Amanda Holden and Alan Carr delve into their family histories. (R)

12.05 Shop on TV. 3.00 Parkinson: The Final Conversation. (R) 4.45 Unwind.

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

Drefn. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Arfordir Cymru: Sir Benfro. (R) 1.30 Cysgu O Gwmpas. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Iaith ar Daith. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Pobol y Penwythnos. (R)

6.30 Rownd a Rownd. (R) 7.00 Heno.

7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Pobol y Cwm.

8.25 Rownd a Rownd. 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Y Byd yn ei Le. 9.45 Côr Cymru 2024: Corau Ieuenctid. (R) 10.45 Wil ac Aeron: Taith Rwmania. (R) 11.20 Grid. (R) 11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.10 Countdown. (R) 6.50 3rd Rock from the Sun. (R) 8.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 9.30 Frasier. (R) 11.00 Work on the Wild Side. (R) 12.00

(R) 2.15 Film: A Killer Affair. (2019) 4.00 Bargain-Loving

5 News Update.

8.00 Air Fryers: Takeaways Made Easy. Alexis Conran prepares some takeaway favourites using the kitchen gadget.

9.00 The Cuckoo. Sian takes Alice to a desolate caravan park. Last in the series. 10.00 Killer at the Crime Scene. The discovery of three bodies hidden under a shed in Cornwall. (R) 11.05 Making a Serial Killer. The mystery of a woman’s DNA found on three female rape and murder victims. (R) 12.05 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (R) 1.00

PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00

Lighthouses: Building the Impossible. (R) 4.40 Great Artists.

(R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R) 5.30

Entertainment News. (R) 5.40

Channel 4 News Summary. 12.05 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. (R) 1.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 5.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 6.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 The Dog House. (R) 9.00 Taskmaster. 10.00 Big Mood. 11.10 Gogglebox. (R) 12.10 Random Acts. 12.25 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.45 Friends. (R) 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45 Home and Away.

Fireman Sam. (R) 5.50 Pip and Posy. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Gwyliau Gartref. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00

Bethesda: Pobol y Chwarel. (R)

1.30 Cegin Bryn. (R) 2.00

Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05

Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Côr Cymru 2024: Corau Ieuenctid. (R) 4.00

Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R)

6.00 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R)

6.30 Garddio a Mwy. (R)

7.00 Heno.

7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.

BBC Four 7.00 The Sky at Night 7.30 India’s Frontier Railways 8.30 Film: The Eagle Has Landed (1976) Second World War spy adventure, with Michael Caine. 10.40 Film: Julius Caesar (1953)

7.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. PC Martain Anderson stops a car thought to be linked to organised crime. (R) 7.55 5 News Update. 8.00 The Coastal Map of Britain. Documentary examining the rise and fall of the UK’s greatest ports, including a look at why the Romans chose London as our capital city.

9.00 Susan Calman’s Great British Cities. The presenter is in Bath, starting her journey at the famous Roman Baths. Last in the series. 10.00 Big Fight Live: Edwards vs Ory. Charlie Edwards v Georges Ory. 12.05 Police Interceptors. (R) 1.05 Entertainment News. 1.15 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.15 Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 4.00

8.00 Hen Dy Newydd. (R) 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Nathan Brew: Un Eiliad Un Ergyd. (R) 10.00 Curadur. 10.30 Creisis. (R) 11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.10 Countdown. (R) 6.50 3rd Rock from the Sun. (R) 8.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 9.30 Frasier. (R) 11.00 Work on the Wild Side. (R) 12.00 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.05 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. (R) 1.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 5.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 6.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 7.30 Michael Mosley: Secrets of Your Big Shop. (R) 8.30 Travel Man: 48 Hours in Lanzarote. 9.00 Gogglebox. 10.00 Late Night Lycett. 11.05 Film: American Pie 2. (2001) 1.10 Film: Crawlspace. (2022) 2.40 Ramsay’s Hotel Hell. (R) 3.25 Come Dine with Me. (R) 6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.45 Friends. (R) 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: A Deadly Invitation. (2019) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5. 6.00 The Cotswolds with Pam Ayres. The poet enjoys a gastronomic treat in the Oxfordshire countryside. (R) 6.55 5 News Update.

Y dd I on

new

‘Nid yw Cymru’n cael chwarae teg gan ddarlledwyr’

MAE Pwyllgor Diwylliant y Senedd wedi lansio adroddiad sy’n galw am i wariant y BBC ar gynnwys teledu yng Nghymru gynyddu o flwyddyn i flwyddyn nes ei fod yn gyfartal â’r hyn mae’r gorfforaeth yn ei wario yn yr Alban.

Dywedodd Delyth Jewell AS, Cadeirydd Pwyllgor Diwylliant y Senedd: “Mae’n amlwg nad yw Cymru’n cael chwarae teg gan ein darlledwyr. Mae’n ofynnol i’r BBC, ITV ac S4C wasanaethu gwylwyr Cymreig a’r rhai sy’n talu ffi’r drwydded mewn gwahanol ffyrdd, ond mae’n amlwg nad ydyn nhw’n cyflawni’n llawn yr hyn a ddisgwylir ar hyn o bryd.

“Ni all fod yn iawn bod y BBC yn gwario dwywaith cymaint ar gynnwys Saesneg yn yr Alban ag y mae’n ei wario yng Nghymru –

mae talwyr ffi’r drwydded yng Nghymru yn haeddu gwell – rydym yn galw am gynnydd o flwyddyn i flwyddyn yn y gwariant hyd nes y bydd cydraddoldeb â’r Alban.

“Mae darlledu yn chwarae rhan bwysig yng Nghymru –portreadu a llunio hunaniaeth Gymreig. Mae hefyd yn chwarae rhan allweddol yn ein democratiaeth, gan sicrhau bod llywodraethau a’r rhai sy’n gwneud penderfyniadau yn cael eu dwyn i gyfrif. Wrth i dirwedd y cyfryngau modern newid, mae’n hanfodol inni gael hyn yn iawn ar gyfer y dyfodol.

“Rdym yn galw ar ddarlledwyr, llywodraethau a rheoleiddwyr i dderbyn ein hargymhellion a gwneud yn siŵr bod pobl yng Nghymru yn cael gwasanaeth priodol oddi wrth y darlledwyr maen

nhw’n cyfrannu atyn nhw ac yn dibynnu arnyn nhw.”

Mae’r adroddiad hefyd yn galw ar Ofcom i fynnu bod ITV yn cynhyrchu mwy o’i gynnwys yng Nghymru – mae’n ofynnol i ITV wneud 35% o’i raglenni y tu allan i’r M25. Fodd bynnag, yn ôl data Ofcom, yn 2022, roedd gwariant rhwydwaith ITV ar gyfer DU wedi plymio i bron i 0% yng Nghymru. Yn y blynyddoedd diwethaf, roedd y ffigur oddeutu 5%.

Mae adroddiad yn amlinellu bod angen mwy o arian ar S4C, ynghyd â fformiwla ariannu a fyddai’n rhoi sicrwydd iddi, i’w helpu i gynllunio at y dyfodol yn well.

Mae trefniant ariannu’r darlledwr wedi newid deirgwaith yn ystod y 15 mlynedd diwethaf. Ers 2010, mae Llywodraeth y DU wedi

lleihau cyllid S4C mewn termau real dros 30%.

Mae’r setliad ariannu hwn yn cyfyngu’n ddifrifol ar y darlledwr, a hynny ar adeg pan fo angen ehangu i ddarparu gwasanaethau ar draws llwyfannau darlledu ac ar-alw.

Byddai cynyddu cymorth i S4C nid yn unig yn ei helpu i gyflawni ei rhwymedigaethau fel darlledwr gwasanaeth cyhoeddus, byddai hefyd yn sicrhau y gallai barhau i chwarae rhan hanfodol wrth gefnogi targed Cymraeg 2050.

Mae’r Pwyllgor hefyd yn galw ar S4C i sicrhau dosbarthiad mwy cyfartal o’i gwariant drwy Gymru. Ar hyn o bryd, mae’r rhan fwyaf o’i gwariant yn digwydd yn y de.

Mae S4C yn cydnabod bod angen iddi wneud mwy a bydd y Pwyllgor yn monitro’r sefyllfa. Er mai mater i

Lywodraeth y DU yw darlledu ar hyn o bryd, fe edrychodd ymchwiliad y Pwyllgor ar rôl y Senedd a Llywodraeth Cymru mewn perthynas â darlledu yng Nghymru.

Mae adroddiad cytuno â’r Comisiwn Annibynnol ar Ddyfodol Cyfansoddiadol Cymru y dylai Llywodraeth Cymru a Llywodraeth y DU gytuno ar fecanweithiau ar gyfer llais cryfach i Gymru ar bolisi darlledu, craffu ac atebolrwydd.

Mae’r Pwyllgor yn galw ar y Senedd i gael y cyfle i gynnal gwrandawiadau cyn penodi gydag ymgeiswyr a ffafrir ar gyfer aelodau Cymru o fyrddau Ofcom a’r BBC a Chadeirydd S4C, ac mae’n galw am iddi fod yn ofynnol i Lywodraeth y DU gael cytundeb Llywodraeth Cymru wrth benodi Cadeirydd S4C.

educa TI on Second chess tournament celebrates youth and skill

Callan from Redhill was honoured with the ‘David Pinch Award’, embodying the spirit of fair play and respect that marked the tournament. A special mention was given to Tyler DavisonHall from Johnston CP School for participating in the Game of the Tournament, further highlighting the event’s competitive yet friendly atmosphere.

The tournament benefitted significantly from the expertise of Ian Eustis from the Welsh Chess Union, who served as Arbiter, ensuring the smooth running of the games. The event was also supported by Martin Jones and Scott Hammett, who took on the roles of stewards, and the Friends of Redhill (FOR), who managed the refreshments, contributing to the day’s success.

THE SECOND Pembrokeshire Chess Tournament drew participants from 21 schools across the region, culminating in a day of intense competition and camaraderie.

The tournament, reported by Vicky Brown, saw young chess enthusiasts gather for a day marked by strategic gameplay and exceptional talent. Henry Burton from Redhill emerged victorious, claiming the top spot in a closely contested field. The duo of Steffan Hughes and Huw Holliday, also from Redhill, followed closely in second place, while Osian Griffiths (Ysgol Caer Elen), Bryn Williams (Milford Haven Community School), and Iolo Hughes (Redhill) shared the third place, showcasing the depth of talent present among the participants. In recognition of outstanding sportsmanship, Carys

The local chess community, including participants and spectators, expressed their appreciation for the organisational efforts that made the event possible. For those interested in furthering their chess skills, the Pembrokeshire Chess Club extends an invitation to meet on Tuesday evenings in Steynton. Martin Jones, contactable at 07884384131, is available for further details regarding membership and participation.

Looking ahead, Redhill is poised to host its next chess tournament on Saturday, 8th June, promising another opportunity for young chess players to demonstrate their skills and passion for the game. The success of this event not only highlights the thriving chess scene in Pembrokeshire but also sets the stage for future tournaments that continue to inspire and engage the youth in the noble game of chess.

Buying online: The dark underbelly in the Welsh puppy trade IN

WALES, an alarming trend is emerging in the puppy buying market, one that capitalises on the contemporary society’s enthrallment with social media and the ceaseless quest for the ideal pet. The Kennel Club, a premier canine welfare organisation, has released a disconcerting study that casts a shadow over the charming ‘cute’ puppy images that inundate platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Riding the wave of their ‘Be Puppywise’ campaign, The Kennel Club divulges a dark reality lurking behind the captivating pictures of pups that have become increasingly pervasive on social media platforms. It appears that over a quarter (27%) of aspiring dog owners in Wales are diverting their search for new pets to these online arenas. With little regulation and scant scrutiny, these platforms have become a breeding ground for deceitful breeders to ply their wares to an audience hypnotised by adorable images. A stark statistic emerges: 25% of puppies marketed on social media fall sick or perish before celebrating their first birthday. Moreover, it seems that for many Welsh buyers, the visual allure is indisputable - 44% admit to selecting their pet simply ‘because it was cute’, while a significant 28% conceded that the puppy’s photo was the pivotal factor in their acquisition decision.

Such snap decisions, driven by emotive visuals, often circumvent necessary research

and due diligence. Shockingly, one-quarter of purchasers invested less than two hours in pre-purchase research, a shortcut that potentially exposes them to scams and the horrific realities of puppy farms.

The intertwining threads of imprudent purchasing decisions weave a tapestry of regret and unexpected tribulations for new owners: 49% are confronted with unanticipated financial burdens, 15% grapple with unforeseen behavioural issues in their new pets, and 19% rue their purchasing method.

The Kennel Club, voicing the concerns of canine welfare

advocates, underscores that behind each heartwarming image lies a tangible puppy with genuine healthcare and welfare needs. The burgeoning social media market provides a veritable goldmine for unscrupulous breeders, enabling them to casually bypass regulatory scrutiny and sell directly to an enchanted and unwitting audience.

Indeed, it appears that an appalling 21% of puppies purchased in Wales are suspected to originate from puppy farms. Purchasers, spellbound by online images, often overlook red flags, such as the absence of interactions with the puppy’s mother

(62%), doubts about seeing the actual breeding environment (47%), and the nonavailability of vaccination records (64%).

Amidst the chaos, the influence of social media endures, with 49% of puppy purchasing decisions in Wales being influenced by these platforms. Astonishingly, 32% of buyers cite social media, influencers, or celebrities as their principal information source, prioritising them above professional veterinarians, dog welfare bodies, and breed experts.

In an era where digitised images frequently eclipse reality, The Kennel Club is advocating

for a resurgence of discerning purchasing practices through its ‘Be Puppywise’ initiative, offering resources and guidance on responsible puppy buying.

With a united stand, expert organisations, breeders, and potential buyers can disrupt the nefarious practices of those who exploit innocent lives for profit and ensure that every puppy has a safe and loving home, beyond the transient allure of a social media post.

Visit the Kennel Club’s official website for supportive resources and advice on prudent puppy purchasing: thekennelclub.org.uk/ bepuppywise.

F arm I ng

Red meat plays key role in a healthy diet – HCC chair says

RED MEAT, as part of balanced and healthy diet, is essential –that’s the key message from Hybu Cig Cymru chair Catherine Smith ahead of World Health Day (Sunday 7 April 2024).

The day, which is led by the World Health Organization (WHO), this year focusses on ‘My health, my right’ stressing that around the world, the right to health of millions of people is increasingly coming under threat.

Speaking from her farm in Monmouthshire, HCC Chair Catherine Smith addresses the role of red meat as part of a balanced diet: “People across the world have a right to nutritious and sustainable food and whilst the nutritional needs of our bodies vary and change throughout our lives, it’s essential from infancy to the later stages of our lives, that we look after our bodies for health and happiness.

“The simplest way to a healthy lifestyle is to eat a variety of different foods and red meat is one food group that

can help us keep on top of our intakes of iron, potassium, magnesium,

zinc, B Vitamins, Vitamin D at all stages of life.” Packed with these

essential vitamins and minerals, a balanced diet with lean red meat

at its core can help us throughout our lives to keep fit and well. Eating up to 500g of cooked red meat per week can be central to a healthy and balanced diet.

“Eaten in the right quantities, incorporating red meat in your diet has many health benefits for people of all ages, including iron which helps reduce tiredness and fatigue, B vitamins which produce energy, and zinc which helps the immune system to work normally,” she added.

Red meat also contains phosphorus, which is needed for normal growth and development of children’s bones and is also protein rich, which is ideal in a quick beef stir-fry after a session at the gym to help you recover, build and maintain muscle mass and feel energised.

“Eating tasty Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef as part of a healthy balanced diet is an excellent way of making sure you are getting what you need for good health – as nature intended,” added Catherine

Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society elect new president

ARABLE and beef farmer, Adam Thorne, has been unanimously elected to become the new President of Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society for the year ahead. Adam is the third generation of his family to hold the position.

During the Annual General Meeting of Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society, held last week on the Pembrokeshire Showground, Mr Tim John and his wife Margaret John were also voted in as Presidents elect.

Adam Thorne has had a long association with Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society. After visiting the show as a toddler, then helping show the family’s pedigree Herefords, his uncle got him into helping him with stewarding in his early teens. From there he progressed to being a Steward with his own section, Commercial Cattle, and then also the Butcher’s Lambs section.

From stewarding, Adam became involved with committee work,

starting as an Executive and then on to the former Finance and General Purposes Committee. He has been Chairman of the Estates Committee for 12 years and is now a Board member and a Trustee.

Adam said, “I am proud of my long association with Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society. I am the third generation

to now be President, following my late grandfather, Walter Thorne, my father, Robert Thorne and more recently my uncle, George Thorne. I am looking forward to my year in the prestigious position.”

Away from his work with the society, Adam runs the family’s arable and beef farm in

Robeston West, Milford Haven. He has been heavily involved with Tiers Cross YFC from an early age, having been Club Secretary twice and Chairman. He has also sat on Pembrokeshire County YFC Committees and the Wales YFC Rural Affairs Committee.

The 2024 Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society

officeholders, announced at the AGM, include Miss Ffion Edwards who was awarded the role of Ambassador at last year’s show. Ffion, a nurse from Maenclochog, has enjoyed many years of attending the county show and believes that there are so many good elements to it. Ffion has been a member of Llysyfran YFC for

15 years and enjoys every aspect of young farmers – trying new experiences, competing and travelling to name a few. Mrs Nicola Owen was also elected as the Honorary Treasurer.

Brian Jones, the outgoing Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society President, took the opportunity to thank everyone who had helped and supported him throughout his presidency. During his year as President, Brian and his wife Helen, raised a tremendous amount of money for various charities including the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society, RABI, Tir Dewi and the DPJ Foundation. Brian also gave his assurances that Castell Howell will continue to sponsor the Food Hall for future years.

Pembrokeshire County Show, the largest county agricultural show in Wales, will be held over two days again this summer on 14 and 15 August. Everyone is invited to attend the celebration of rural life in the county.

Pictured (left to right): Ffion Edwards the Ambassador for 2024; Adam Thorne, President; Margaret and Tim John, the Presidents Elect.

THERE has been a lot of discussions during the past two months about the work we have been doing to try and influence the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme. As this work goes on, our county officers have been continuing to work with members supporting farmers and their families with all sorts of enquiries and issues.

At this time of year, our team of experts across the length and breadth of Wales are supporting members to complete their Single Application Form (SAF). This is the essential process for farmers and landowners to access financial support related to farming and rural activities from the Welsh Government. The SAF is done annually, so it’s an important piece of information that includes all kinds of facts, figures and details regarding a farm business. It therefore needs to be filled in accurately. Our FUW County Executive Officers are therefore inundated with appointments at this time of year, and will continue to be busy until the SAF closing date which falls on the 15 of May this year. The message, as usual, is to book your slot early, if you need support!

As so many members visit our offices during this period, we get to hear about other issues that are worrying our farmers. From the constant wet weather, the cost of living crisis, family bereavements, TB concerns, Schmallenberg (the insect borne viral disease spread by biting midges that is currently affecting sheep, cattle and other animals in some areas of Wales) and all kinds of other farming related issues.

As one of my colleagues recently said: “No two days are ever the same in this job, but we are in a

fortunate and privileged position to be able to offer support. Farming can be a very isolating role. You can be out and about tending your stock in all kinds of weather, and with many in the throes of lambing and calving, sleep deprivation has a role to play in the mood we find some of our farmers. During a busy period like this, many farmers don’t get to the livestock markets which are a great place to share the load and offer perspective on any worries farmers may have. Talking to others working within the industry can shine a different light on any concern a farmer may have.

As FUW county staff we speak to many farmers during this period. We are on hand not only to offer practical support, but to listen, to offer advice and to give guidance, if needed, during trying times. We are also indebted to many voluntary led organisations and charities who work specifically within the agricultural industry such as The DPJ Foundation, Tir Dewi and RABI.

The DPJ Foundation has a 24/7 confidential counselling referral service specifically for those who work in agriculture. ‘Share The Load’, guarantees that those who call will be contacted within 48 hours by a counsellor and seen within a week. We need to shatter the stigma associated with asking for support following loss, bereavement, feeling low or exhausted or just simply suffering the strain of daily life pressures. All these issues, if ignored, can all lead to poor mental health and depression, but there is ALWAYS someone on hand to listen. Don’t struggle alone, please speak to someone.

Call 0800 587 4262 or visit www. thedpjfoundation.co.uk for more information or advice.

New import regime to raise prices

NEW fixed charges on imports of plants and fresh produce will be unmanageable for many businesses

The Fresh Produce Council, an industry group for business leaders working in the UK’s fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain, has hit out at the Government for introducing new charges on imports that “threaten to cripple” SMEs in the fresh produce and plant sectors.

The industry body warned that the common user charge (CUC) is set to add millions in extra costs to the industry while unnecessarily driving up fruit and vegetable prices.

The CUC is being introduced as part of postBrexit border controls, and they apply to imports from all countries.

The FPC predicts it will add £200 million in costs across the fresh produce supply chain. The organisation described the move as “a crippling blow to a sector already grappling with unprecedented challenges”.

“This is simply not a manageable cost for our members,” said FPC CEO Nigel Jenney.

“These exorbitant charges imposed by our own Government represent a direct tax on businesses. It’s a move that will undoubtedly shatter supply chain confidence and is already encouraging EU exporters to reconsider their commitment to supply the UK market.”

The CUC will apply to each commodity line in a common health entry document (CHED).

It will apply to separate commodity lines even if they share the same commodity code.

The maximum charge for one CHED will be limited to five commodity lines, even if more than five are present in the CHED.

That means medium and high-risk CHEDs will be capped at £145. VAT will not be added; Defra will review and update rates annually.

The Government has attempted to downplay the impact, arguing that consumers will see a negligible price increase.

But according to the FPC, importers and retailers warn of “cascading delays, disruptions, and spiralling costs that will inevitably be passed on to hard-pressed shoppers”.

“The CUC system is particularly devastating for SMEs,” Mr Jenney said. “While fees are now capped, they remain substantial – £145 for every consignment arriving in the UK via the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel.

“This might not seem like much, but with only a small number of consignments inspected, the [actual] cost per inspection balloons to a ludicrous £5k.”

The FPC instead wants to see “industry-managed solutions”, which it argues would offer a more efficient service.

However, the adoption and development of

the medium risk category will now face a bill of £145 per package under these proposals.

“The clock is ticking to April 30, when these charges will come into force. We urge the Government to reconsider its charge plans in the coming days.

“Failing to do so risks higher prices for us all, at a time when we should be bearing down on business costs and food price inflation.”

The Horticultural Trade Association said the policy “feels like it is constructed on the back of an envelope at best”.

assured operator status, which would allow responsible companies to manage their own inspections, has yet to begin.

Nigel Jenney concluded: “Ultimately, it’s essential the UK remains a destination of choice for international exporters to complement our fantastic homegrown fresh produce and to offer the choice and availability we all demand.

“The Government’s poorly considered border solution puts this in severe jeopardy or, at best, drives avoidable food inflation.

“These insane charges are an attack on those working tirelessly to feed and flower our great nation. The Government seems hell-bent on punishing businesses that are the backbone of our economy and our health.”

William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “This is an extremely disappointing decision by Defra on the common usage charge. The level of import charges shows scant regard for the interests of both businesses and consumers.

“A flat-rate fee for bringing most animal and plant products into the UK is a hammer blow for small and medium-sized importers. It’s also deeply concerning for retailers, cafes and restaurants.

“Importing a small consignment of goods with only five different meat, poultry, egg, milk or some fish products in

James Barnes, HTA Chairman, said: “Anyone who understands the seasons and the basics of nature will know what and how much we import differs throughout the year, hence the criticality of an annual data set on which to base this policy.

“As a sector expecting to be the highest user of BCPs, a majority of which are SMEs already experiencing wider increased cost pressures, we had sought an early announcement for business planning and certainty, a simple and proportionate approach per phytosanitary certificate.

“The CUC, whilst critical, is just one part of the jigsaw of the April border changes, a puzzle that is far from solved.

“Border Control Posts cannot handle many of our loads, let alone the volumes, and we have no details on the so-called pragmatic approach.

“The ‘pragmatic approach’ lacks any public detail or communication to give confidence or certainty that BCPs’ lack of capacity or capability to handle plants will not cause irreparable damage to an industry hit by extraordinary cost hikes this spring.

“This CUC announcement and border changes come at the worst time. “The charges will undoubtedly increase costs, potentially reduce consumer choice, and increase the likelihood of empty shelves, thereby impacting biodiversity and meeting our nation’s environmental targets.”

CUPRA UK offers customers five-year peace of mind

CUPRA has introduced a fiveyear/90,000 mile warranty across the range, for all CUPRA models from 3 April 2024.

The new warranty will be valid for orders placed on, or after 3 April 2024 and applies to both new factory orders and stock orders. It comprises of a two-year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage, plus a further three years up to a maximum of 90,000 miles (whichever comes first).

“Our new five-year warranty across the range makes the CUPRA offering even more appealing. We want to reassure our customers with the knowledge that they are extensively covered when purchasing their CUPRA, so they can enjoy their experience.” said Marcus Gossen, Director of SEAT and CUPRA UK. “The accessibility of our models is very important to us, and by increasing the warranty of our range to five years, we give customers continued peace of mind on the road.”

Previously, the CUPRA range covered three years (or 60,000 miles), with the option to extend to either four years (or 75,000 miles), or five years (or 90,000 miles) for an additional cost.

CUPRA’s paint warranty and body protection warranty remain unchanged at three years and 12 months respectively.

CUPRA Born’s battery warranty also remains unchanged at eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever is earliest.

With the new fiveyear warranty priced into the range, customers will reap the rewards of competitive vehicle cover for longer.

For more information on the CUPRA range, visit https://www.cupraofficial. co.uk/

Dacia says yes to extra equipment and no to extra cost

DACIA is boosting the safety and convenience of its models without any additional cost to the customer.

The new European Global Safety Regulation 2 (GSR2) legislation stipulates that all new cars must now feature a host of equipment that works to improve road safety for all, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Traditionally, adding such advanced features significantly increases a car’s cost, especially for those at the more affordable end of the market. However, Dacia UK has decided to make its Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Jogger all GSR2 compliant with no change to their price.

The trio of models, starting from the entrylevel Essential trim, now benefit, as standard, from intelligent speed assist, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), driver drowsiness and attention warning, rear parking sensors, and automatic headlights.

Once personalising the function of certain ADAS features, a new ‘My Safety’ button allows drivers to return to their preferred settings each time the car is started with just one click.

The entire Dacia range now also includes a Rescue QR Code that is clearly visible on the windscreen and rear window. In the event of the vehicle being involved in an accident, this provides firefighters with all the information they need to rapidly respond to the emergency and make the car safe.

The addition of extra safety features coincides with other specification

enhancements across the range.

Together with the recent introduction of the well-equipped Journey trim, the Sandero line-up now features new twotone Atara Flex wheels and Randia alloy wheels on selected versions. As with the Sandero Stepway, Sandero now has a USB-C port in the front and can be ordered with the Shadow Grey and Cedar Green shades previously reserved for the Jogger and Extreme trim-equipped cars.

The Sandero Stepway is also the only Dacia to be offered with the new Safari Beige finish, with the crossover’s distinctive appearance being further bolstered with the addition of twotone dark Atara Flex wheels and dark Randia alloy wheels that are shared with the Jogger. Both adventure-focused models also have a new decal on the front doors that features the Dacia Link emblem and the GPS coordinates of the iconic Romanian Transfagarasan highway.

Additionally, Jogger HYBRID 140 now features the 7-inch instrument panel first seen on the All-New Duster and a new E-SAVE function that allows energy to be reserved for later in a trip. For example, if a steep uphill stretch is approaching, the driver can activate E-SAVE to preserve the battery and then deactivate it once the climb has been completed.

The Sandero continues to be available from £13,795 on-theroad, with the Sandero Stepway and Jogger priced from only £15,295 on-the-road and £18,295 on-the-road.

BMW 5 Series claims the title of World Luxury Car 2024

MORE dynamic than ever, brimming with digital innovations, with a spacious interior exuding a premium feel and – in the shape of the BMW i5, with a fully electric drivetrain for the first time, the new BMW 5 Series reinforces its claim to leadership in the premium executive class. For the members of the World Car Awards expert jury, it was the standout new arrival among the field of luxury vehicles which celebrated their debuts in the world’s car markets over the past 12 months. The international panel of experts therefore handed the BMW 5 Series the crown of World Luxury Car 2024. The results were announced today at the start of the New York International Auto Show 2024 as part of a ceremony broadcast worldwide via streaming services.

The success of the BMW 5 Series was underpinned by assessments carried

out during extensive test drives by the around 100 car journalists from 30 countries that made up the jury. These ratings were then recorded in detail by the World Car Awards organisers. The BMW 5 Series fended off competition from a field of 13 new luxury vehicles, winning over the jury not only with the majestic power delivery from its portfolio of electrified combustion engines as well as the electric drive system, but also with its high comfort levels over long-distance journeys and numerous digital innovations. “We are very pleased to receive this prestigious award. The verdict of the international jury shows that our strong-character products with their typical BMW qualities convince and inspire demanding target groups all over the world,” said Bernd Körber, Senior Vice President BMW Brand and Product Management, Connected Company.

BMW 5 Series: Consistent electrification and digital innovations.

The BMW 5 Series displays its progressive character with its powertrain technology, its innovative digital services as well as an elegantly sporty design, generous levels of cabin space, optimised acoustic comfort and a progressive premium ambience for the interior. Advanced assistance systems like the motorway assistant and active Lane Change Assistant with eye confirmation emphasise the long-distance qualities of the BMW 5 Series. With the display and control/operation system BMW iDrive with QuickSelect, the BMW Curved Display and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with extended functionality all on board, the i5 is comprehensively set up for user-vehicle interaction via touch control and natural speech. When the car is stationary, BMW 5 Series occupants can explore the extensive video streaming offering on the control display and enjoy a new form of in-car gaming – e.g.

to make use of the time when the high-voltage battery is charging.

As a fully integrated member of the new BMW 5 Series model range, the BMW i5 offers locally emission-free driving pleasure. The driving dynamics and efficiency of the BMW i5 have their roots in fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This comprises highly integrated drive units and high-voltage batteries with extremely high energy density. In addition, the latest evolution of adaptive recuperation and an intelligent combination of heat pump technology for heating and cooling the interior, drive system and high-voltage battery help the car to achieve a rangeå of up to 356 miles in the WLTP cycle, depending on the model and specification. The Combined Charging Unit of the BMW i5 enables AC charging at a rate of up to 22 kW and DC charging at up to 205 kW. This means the car’s range can be boosted by up to 97 miles within just 10 minutes when

Over the years, BMW has collected eight wins in the World Car Awards. One of the victors was the BMW 7 Series, which was crowned World Luxury Car in 2016 already. In 2018, the title of World Performance Car was presented to the BMW M5. This ninth title win for the Bavarian premium carmaker is the latest in a long line of distinctions amassed by the new BMW 5 Series over the past few months. For instance, the all-electric version alone adds to the trophy collection with a total of three “Car of the Year” awards from Norway, Denmark and Italy.

The BMW Group

plugged into a fastcharging station.

The entire combustion engine portfolio has also been electrified. A flexibly designed drive architecture that was open to different technologies from the outset enables the new BMW 5 Series Saloon to be offered for the first time as an all-electric model, with plug-in hybrid systems and with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines. The combustion engines from the new modular generation of BMW Group Efficient Dynamics engines all feature the latest version of 48-volt mild hybrid technology.

BMW wins title number nine in the World Car Awards.

The World Car Awards were created 20 years ago to stand alongside national and regional distinctions as an acknowledgement of outstanding innovations and new products in car markets worldwide. This year, the awards were presented in a total of five categories in addition to the overall prize.

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

eal TH

HLaugharne GP Branch Surgery to remain open

HYWEL Dda University Health Board today (Thursday, 28 March) approved a recommendation that an application by the Coach and Horses Practice in St Clears to close their Branch Surgery in Laugharne be declined.

This means that the Branch Surgery in the township will remain open, but the Health Board will work with the Coach and Horses Practice to consider the services which may operate out of the Branch Surgery, and those services which will continue to be provided from the main Practice site at St Clears.

The decision follows months of public engagement with patients in Laugharne which included two drop-in events and an extension of the engagement period in order to ensure as many voices as possible

could be heard.

Patients were also able to make their opinions known by completing a questionnaire, by telephone, email, in writing or online.

The Coach and Horses put forward their case for closure before an open session of the Branch Closure Panel, set up to consider the closure application.

The main reasons

for the application to close the Laugharne Branch Surgery included concerns about workforce, staffing the branch surgery, and protecting the provision of General Medical Services in the area.

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Director of Primary Care, Community and LongTerm Care, Jill Paterson, said:

“We appreciate that the Coach and Horses GP Practice have raised their concerns about challenges including workforce and the financial pressures of maintaining two sites.

“However, following extensive local engagement and working closely with Llais, the statutory body in Wales that represents the interest of patients and

the public, the Health Board decided to decline the closure application at this point in time.

“The public engagement exercise showed concerns about care being moved further from home, the ease of access to health services for the local community along with worries about transport and parking, appointment capacity at St Clears and the detrimental environmental impact.

“We will be working closely with the Coach and Horses Practice to help support them in the delivery of GP healthcare services into the future.”

Further details about how the decision was reached can be seen on the Hywel Dda University Health Board website: Board agenda and papers 28 March 2024

- Hywel Dda University Health Board (nhs.wales)

Hywel Dda to begin work on £3 million cancer day unit

Hywel Dda University Health Board has today (Thursday, 28 March 2024) confirmed that building work on the new Chemotherapy Day Unit (CDU) at Bronglais Hospital will start in May.

The project will deliver significant enhancements in care and experience for Hywel Dda patients.

Peter Skitt, Hywel Dda’s Ceredigion County Director and project director for the development of the new unit, said: “I’m delighted that we will soon realise our ambition for Bronglais Hospital to have a fit-forpurpose unit for cancer patients.

“We have overcome a short delay, and with support from our staff, the Hywel Dda Health Charities, our Board members and our building contractor, building work will soon start. I expect the new £3million unit to be ready to welcome its first patients next year.”

The budget for the development has been under pressure because of rapidly rising material

costs. However, with careful planning and budgeting, the health board is now on-track to nearly double the floor space available for treatment and staff areas to 600 square metres.

Peter Skitt continues:

“The project will remodel part of the existing floor area and repurpose accommodation to ensure it meets the needs of staff and patients to deliver a modern and welcoming facility.

“Finally, we owe a

huge thank you to the tireless fundraising efforts of our charitable supporters, many of whom are our own staff or members of our Ceredigion, south Gwynedd and Powys communities. Their

commitment will help us realise a vision that we have held for our patients and staff since 2017. The new facility will be totally unrecognisable compared to today,” he concludes.

NHS dental charges in Wales increase from April

THE COST of NHS dental treatment in Wales will increase from 1 April 2024.

The increase in dental charges is the first since April 2020 and are overall still lower than in England. Any revenue generated from the increased charges will be re-invested back into NHS dentistry services.

From April 2024, the three standard charges will increase to between £20.00 and £260.00 depending on the treatment required, and urgent treatment will increase to £30.00.

Around 50% of people receive NHS dental treatment for free in Wales. Those eligible

for free treatment include children under 18 or those aged 18 and in full time education, pregnant women or those who have had a baby within the 12 months of treatment starting, anyone who has dentistry treatment carried out in a hospital or people on certain benefits.

Additionally, the lowincome scheme provides full or partial help with health costs, depending on individual circumstances.

Despite pressure on budgets the Welsh Government has increased investment for dentistry, with funding £27 million higher than it was in 2018 to 2019. Included within this increase is an additional £2 million a year

to address local access issues.

Changes to the dentistry contract in Wales include a requirement for NHS practices to see new patients. Since this was introduce in April 2022, 312,000 people who couldn’t get an appointment before have now received NHS dental treatment.

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Eluned Morgan, said: “Because of the extreme pressure on our budget we have had to consider if additional funding should be raised by increasing dentistry charges.

“This is the first increase we have made to dentistry charges since

2020. Around half of patients don’t pay for their NHS dental treatment and we will continue to protect those that are least able to afford to pay.

“It is vital we all keep our teeth and gums healthy. This is why we are working to make it easier for people to see an NHS dentist by increasing the number of new NHS places and helping dentists to focus on those who need help by changing how often we see a dentist for routine appointments.”

Commenting on the announcement Russell George MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister said: “Vaughan Gething’s

arrogant choice to hike up dental charges for the people Wales, rather than cut his Labour Government’s wasteful spending is wrong.

“All standard charges are being increased for dental services by the Labour Welsh Government, including for urgent treatment, which will add to cost-of-living pressures.

“While Welsh Conservatives agree that dental services require greater investment after years of Labour underfunding them, ministers should look at cutting vanity projects like their plans to create more politicians before passing on the cost to patients.”

u SI ne SS

BBudding designers out in front thanks to top trailer maker

FOUR school pupils have come up with an innovative design for a new kind of industrial pallet which is set to be made into a prototype by the UK’s leading trailer maker.

The quartet from Denbigh High School won a top prize in a national engineering competition after creating the design from scratch in just a month.

Inspiration for the idea grew out of the partnership between their school and North Wales company Ifor Williams Trailers (IWT) which exports globally.

Manufactured at its six factories in Denbighshire and Flintshire, the Ifor Williams Trailers range is sold across the UK and Europe, and as far afield as Australia and New Zealand.

If the prototype stands up to tests and reaches a future production stage it is possible the boys design could also travel across the world.

The four young innovators credited their Product Design teacher, Thomas Turner, with helping them achieve their remarkable success.

Charlie Williams, Evan Thomas, Thomas Davies, all aged 17, and Cai Frith, 16, are all in Year 12, studying for A-levels at Denbigh High School.

Cai said: “Our tutor is brilliant. He definitely motivated us to produce the best design we possibly could. We didn’t only want it to be competition standard, we wanted it to be good enough to convince Ifor Williams that it has real potential.”

The team spent many hours creating and modifying their design before entering it into an annual Engineering Education Scheme Wales (STEMCymru) competition for schools across the nation. The competition asks entrants to design solutions to real engineering problems faced by local industry.

Their hard work paid off when they won the Ian Binning Award, sponsored by Noddir Gan, for Best Use of Mechanical Engineering Principals in their design.

It was an even more remarkable feat given that rival schools who entered the prestigious competition had six

months to work on their designs, while the Denbigh sixth formers had only four weeks.

Teacher Thomas Turner explained that the boys had been tasked with designing a state of the art stillage, which is a form of pallet, using mainly sustainable materials.

Putting their various skillsets and design heads together they came up with a pioneering metal pallet in a modular format which can be easily reconfigured for different uses and adjusted to suit bespoke as well as standard parts.

Two members of IWT’s engineering team, James Rew and Rob Boncea, attended the competition final event with Denbigh High when the completed design was displayed on an exhibition stand.

Manufacturing Project Engineer James said everyone at Ifor Williams Trailers was hugely impressed with the boys’ ingenuity and enthusiasm for the task.

He said: “We’re all thrilled for them. They really deserved to win this award, they put so much thought and innovation into

the task. They show great potential and have promising careers ahead. This was not an easy project but they showed great problemsolving skills and worked so well together as a team.”

IWT Manufacturing Engineering Manager Andrew Cooper said the boys’ design exceeded all the company’s expectations.

He said: “When pupils have inspirational teachers, as is the case here, young people and their schools can achieve great things. Our support of these young engineers of the future has been a pleasure.

“They are a great bunch of lads and we were not surprised that they worked so hard on the tasks we set them, but we did not expect them to really pull it out of the bag in the way they have.

“Their design was quite brilliant, so impressive that we are absolutely considering using it as the basis for a prototype with the aim of eventually developing it for everyday use in industry. The design they came up with really is that good, a credit to

them and their teachers.”

Thomas Turner said it was a huge boost for them when Ifor Williams agreed to partner up with the school so they could enter the competition.

He said: “Ifor Williams Trailers immediately agreed to get behind the team. We cannot thank them enough. Not only were they generous enough to back the boys but they were hugely inspirational for them.”

As part of the project the team went on a site visit to Ifor Williams Trailers where they were set specific targets and functions to incorporate in their design, including working out how to overcome some of the problems which can beset more conventional forms of pallet.

The boys said visiting the factory was an eyeopener and it was great to witness a top professional engineering team in their workplace.

Charlie said: “Ifor Williams are the best in the business with a global reputation, so it was a brilliant chance for us to meet their engineers and we definitely learned a lot from them. In the end we felt we were really lucky, not many school groups get to work with such a world class manufacturer.”

Wales’ R&D-intensive businesses drive innovation and value creation

R&D intensive businesses are boosting the Welsh economy according to a new report commissioned by Economic Intelligence Wales.

Produced with the support of the Enterprise Research Centre (ERC), the report shows there are more than 2,400 high and medium-high R&Dintensive businesses in Wales that make significant contributions to the Welsh economy. It also looks at innovation activity via survey data and in-depth interviews with businesses and is the first ERC report to be published through Economic Intelligence Wales.

In Wales, as we see across the UK, economic risks and the high costs of innovation are the main barriers to innovation in R&D intensive firms. However, the report show that the cost and availability of finance are less of a barrier to

investment by high R&D intensity firms in Wales than elsewhere in the UK.

The report also shows a strong link between R&D and other performance measures like growth and profitability, while highlighting the outsized effect public investment can have when it goes into R&D-intense businesses, securing stronger growth. It further reveals that R&D intensive businesses generate a disproportionate share of jobs and turnover.

However, the report does note that levels of collaboration between universities and R&Dintensive businesses are lower in Wales compared with other regions of the UK. If collaboration levels in Wales were similar to those in Scotland, this would mean an additional 350 high and mediumhigh R&D intensity firms collaborating with universities.

With reference to what innovation Welsh firms are undertaking,

this differs somewhat to elsewhere in the UK with a stronger focus on product/ service innovation and less focus on process change. Although the report highlights a wide range of activity, lack of awareness of support may be limiting firms’ ability to share the costs and risks of innovation.

While interviews highlighted that there was a reliance on internal resources which constrained some firms’ innovation activity, other companies had taken advantage of support from the Welsh government and the Development Bank of Wales.

The report is available here.

Professor Stephen Roper, Director of the ERC, said: “This report provides the first detailed look at the group of R&Dintensive businesses which will be critical to future growth and highquality jobs in Wales. As it stands these businesses

are already making a significant contribution to sales and jobs in Wales.

“Adopting measures to further strengthen the links between these leading-edge firms and local universities has the potential to enhance their innovation, productivity and growth.”

Giles Thorley, Chief Executive of the Development Bank of

Wales, said: “We know that R&D plays a vital role in firms’ ability to innovate and create value. Our investment into R&D intensive firms is helping to make significant economic contributions to the Welsh economy.

We welcome this report from the Enterprise Research Centre and will use the findings and recommendations to

continue to support Welsh businesses, raising awareness of the wider support available for R&D businesses including the role of universities as a source of information and collaboration. Indeed, we will do all that we can to enhance the valuable contribution that R&D businesses make to the Welsh economy.”

P ol ITI c S

POSITIVELy LIBERAL

Environment Agency have shown that Dwr Cymru discharged sewage into waterways for a staggering 23,354 hours last year. A 40% increase on 2022.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats are now calling for tougher action against sewage dumping in Welsh waterways.

The party has also called for a halt on bonuses for water company bosses whose firms have dumped sewage into waterways.

Conservative MPs have consistently voted against measures which would have helped to tackle the crisis.

The Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats Jane Dodds and Regional Senedd Member for Mid & West Wales, said:

“It is a complete scandal that filthy sewage is being pumped into our nation’s rivers and waterways without consequence.”

“It beggars’ belief that both the UK Conservative Government and the Welsh Labour government are allowed water firms to get away with this environmental vandalism.”

“We as a party are calling for tougher action to stop sewage being dumped in local waterways. We have also called for a halt on bonuses for water company fat cats whose firms have pumped filth into our waterways.”

Pension have also been in the news.

Responding to the report released today

How parties prepare for power

by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombundsman, that recommended that the government should compensate women affected when the pension age was raised to match that for men, Liberal Democrat Chief Whip Wendy Chamberlain MP said:

“After years of waiting, the Ombudsman has finally recommended compensation for WASPI women.”

“These courageous women, who have tirelessly campaigned for justice after being left out of pocket, deserve our admiration for their persistence.”

“Liberal Democrats have long supported WASPI in their campaign and it is now up to this Conservative Government to come forward with a plan to get these women the compensation they are owed.”

And it seems that the Conservatives are desperate to keep the vote of pensioners at the forthcoming General Election as Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced the pensions triple lock will be in their election manifesto.

Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesperson Sarah Olney MP said:

“This is a shameless election trick by the Conservatives, just weeks after they hiked taxes on pensioners in the budget. After almost every economic promise was broken in their last manifesto, how can anybody trust a word they say? Jeremy Hunt is yet again taking pensioners for granted.”

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

AFTER a General Election in which power passes from one party to another, a new Government must hit the ground running. Regardless of who sits in the ministerial chair, the business of governance must continue.

Although a new Government has manifesto pledges to meet and plans for its legislative programme, a new minister must make decisions from Day One of their tenure.

“Access talks” are meetings between the civil service and opposition parties in the run-up to a general election.

Because the handover of power usually takes place overnight, access talks are the only opportunity for the civil service and an incoming government to exchange information and establish relationships with each other before the potential handover date.

Access talks are unique: civil servants do not normally meet with opposition MPs. They are held “without ministers having a right to be privy to the content of the discussions”, though the prime minister must agree before any talks can happen, and ministers should know that they are occurring.

They can also take place between the opposition and arm’slength bodies.

MAKING ARRANGEMENTS

The opposition leader writes to the prime minister requesting talks with the civil service.

By convention, the prime minister is expected to respond by authorising the talks in the run-up to an election. At that point, the cabinet secretary and the Cabinet Office become responsible for overseeing and organising contact between both sides.

During the 2000s, it became practice for the talks to be ‘preauthorised’. The prime minister would authorise them at the start of the

Parliament, removing the prime minister from later choices about when exactly they would start.

However, David Cameron reversed this practice after 2010. It has again reverted to the previous convention that the opposition leader has to make a request, and the prime minister then approves the talks’ start.

Because these talks are by convention and have to be approved by the prime minister, the incumbent government has discretion when they are granted.

The time offered has varied between two and 16 months.

Gordon Brown authorised contact between the Conservative Party and the civil service 15 months before the 2010 election.

In 2017, the talks were initiated on the day Theresa May announced the election, giving the Labour Party 51 days to speak with the civil service.

In 2018 and early 2019, Labour repeatedly asked for the talks to begin to consider the possibility of an early election. However, the requests were initially refused because the next election was not scheduled until 2022 under the Fixedterm Parliaments Act.

They were eventually authorised to occur in October 2019, just two months before the election.

It is at the prime minister’s discretion whether smaller parties should be granted talks. For example, in 2015, David Cameron refused Nicola Sturgeon’s request that the SNP be granted talks with the civil service.

There is no formal guidance as to how many meetings there should be. Smaller departments tend to have fewer than five meetings, while larger departments have around seven.

Meetings are expected to be held outside of departments, so they usually take place in Parliament.

Ed Balls, then a special adviser to shadow chancellor Gordon Brown,

claimed to have met Terry Burns, then permanent secretary to the Treasury, “maybe once or twice a week, for two or three hours at a time” in the year before the 1997 election.

WHAT HAPPENS?

Attendance at the meetings varies considerably by department. Usually, senior spokespeople or shadow ministers for the opposition parties and the relevant permanent secretaries have an initial meeting.

Subsequent meetings might be themed around topics, with the relevant civil service staff and officials from the opposition party attending relevant meetings.

In theory, the talks are restricted to organisational matters, and the civil service hears what major policies opposition parties are planning.

The cabinet manual says they should cover “questions about departmental organisation and to inform civil servants of any organisational changes likely to take place in the event of a change of government.”

At the discretion of permanent secretaries, they draw the line in discussing aspects of policy.

They may, for example, have implementation concerns they want to ensure are raised.

The guidance says they can “ask questions about the implications of opposition parties’ policy statements” but should never “give advice about policies”.

In the past, shadow ministers passed on drafts of legislation they had drawn up privately or structural reform plans that set out plans for their policy and legislative timetable.

FAIL TO PREPARE...

Access talks with the civil service can be invaluable in helping a new government prepare in advance of and during a general election campaign.

They also allow the

civil service to anticipate the level of transformation and upheaval that will accompany government changes, both in terms of policy delivery and personnel changes.

They can also be the first opportunity for potential new secretaries of state to get to know the permanent secretary of the department they lead.

However, talks need some prior thought to maximise their usefulness.

As Harriet Harman pointed out in her interview for the Institute of Government’s “Ministers Reflect” project: “The discussions that are held between the top of the civil service and the shadow secretaries of state could be much better focused on helping the shadow secretary of state understand what they are going to be doing”. Their success can depend on how well the shadow gets on with the permanent secretary. However, shadows also need to consider what they want from the meeting.

Past research shows that it can be hugely valuable for the shadow and permanent secretary to discuss a plan for the talks in their first meeting.

For both the 1997 and 2010 elections, access talks began at least 16

months before the end of the Parliament.

THE TIMETABLE

While Labour has the advantage of three shadow ministers having previously run government departments – no shadow minister had done so in 1997 –the talks with the civil service are a crucial part of preparing for the possibility of government.

In the final months before an election, there is pressure to put everything into campaigning – and to avoid looking complacent about victory.

However, drawing on interviews with former ministers, senior civil servants, and former political and special advisers shows that detailed preparation for government is critical in the UK, where, unlike almost any other country, opposition parties almost always transition into power overnight.

Oppositions that prepare are better at governing, particularly in the crucial early years of a parliament.

For Labour to best use this critical period to prepare, a report from the IfG recommends:

Keir Starmer and his team must finalise

Poverty and deprivation increase

a clear set of policy priorities—brokering the necessary trade-offs between them—and the legislation needed in a first King’s Speech within weeks of taking power.

Shadow teams must decide what level of detail they will share with the civil service and when during talks. Building agreement now for what will (and will not) be discussed will help focus minds.

Labour will work with the Cabinet Office to arrange cross-cutting talks, as Labour’s missions are not neatly confined to a single department’s brief.

Labour must plan what machinery of government changes are necessary to support cross-government missions, with Starmer and chief of staff Sue Gray planning how to restructure the centre of government.

While the rightwing media targets the shadow ministerial team during the campaign, for continuity’s and clarity’s sake, Kier Starmer will be keen to avoid shadow cabinet reshuffles before the election and identify a list of planned core special adviser appointments before concluding access talks discussions.

HEADLINE poverty rates in 2022-23 were similar to 2019-20 levels, but other measures of material well-being tell a different story.

New official household income statistics show that the real incomes of the poorest third of households were roughly the same in 2022-23 as in 2019-20, despite the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis.

However, other measures of material well-being, such as food security and material deprivation, tell a different story.

The proportion of individuals experiencing food insecurity rose by almost a half between 2019-20 and 2022-23 (8% to 11%), and the share in material deprivation rose from 15% to 19%.

Over the same period, the incomes of the top two-thirds of the income distribution fell.

That statistic puts this parliament firmly on course to be the worst for living standards since comparable records began in 1961.

IFS analysis of the new data, funded by the Joseph Rowntree

Foundation and The Financial Fairness Trust, shows:

• Official income poverty rates are similar to pre-pandemic levels but do not account for the sharper-than-average impact of the cost-of-living crisis on the budgets of low-income households or fully capture the large increases in housing costs experienced by some mortgagors. Therefore, other measures of financial hardship may better reflect the living standards of poorer people than traditional income poverty rates in 2022-23.

• Alternative measures of financial hardship consistently show a large deterioration over the same period. The rate of food insecurity rose from 8% of individuals to 11% (equivalent to a rise from 5.2m to 7.3m), the rate of material deprivation from 15% to 19% (10 million to 13 million), and the proportion unable to heat their home more than doubled from 4% to 11% (from 2.9 million to 7.2 million).

• Pensioners also saw large increases along these measures.

In particular, the share of pensioners unable to adequately heat their homes more than doubled (250,000 to 550,000), even as their headline poverty rate fell very slightly.

Sam Ray-Chaudhuri, a Research Economist at IFS, said: “Given the double whammy of COVID and the cost-ofliving crisis, it may not come as a shock that this parliament is on course to be one of the worst ever for growth in household incomes.

“Perhaps more worrying is the evidence that official income statistics have understated the true increase in deprivation during this period.

“The cost-of-living crisis has seen alarming rises in the share of households facing food insecurity or unable to heat their home adequately.

“With further poor income growth forecast, and an unenviable fiscal position, bringing about a substantial improvement in living standards will be a significant challenge for the next government.”

A few months back I wrote a piece about extremism, and how the UK Government was about to re define extremism as an “… advancement of any ideology which aims to overturn or undermine the UK’s system of parliamentary democracy, its institutions and values.”

Last month we marked the 40th anniversary of the Miner’s strike, a seismic event which changed the political course of the British state. The current dysfunctionality of the UK did not happen in 2010, 2016 or 2019, but in the 1980s when a Westminster government did all it could to destroy and undermine organised working-class communities.

Margaret Thatcher famously said of the colliers’ strike: “We had to fight the enemy without in the Falklands. We always have to be aware of the enemy within, which is much more difficult to fight and more dangerous to liberty.”

The woman who quoted St Francis of Assisi, promising to bring unity and hope did exactly the opposite, as disclosed by the opening of classified documents of that time. Using the police force, the security services’ dirty tricks department, court actions and the right wing press she ensured the mass subversion of democratic liberties. The pillars of a democratic state were abused and used against its own people.

Fast forward 40 years and Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (a vacuous job title if ever there was one) recently unveiled the Westminster Government’s new definition of extremism.

Now we all know how concerned Rishi Sunak is, about “extremism”. He told us, in that Friday night panic

attack on the podium outside No10, when the indefatigable fedora wearing popinjay, George Gallaway won the Rochdale by-election.

This new definition is so… ahem … extreme, even Robert Jenrick, Priti Patel and two other exTory Home Secretaries have voiced their concerns about it. This matter is not being debated in the House of Commons it is just being rolled out. There will be no appeals process if a group is labelled as extremist and groups will be expected to challenge a ministerial decision in the courts.

So, will we as campaigners for Welsh independence, be perceived as extremists who want to …” undermine the UK’s system of parliamentary democracy, its institutions and values”?

To be honest the rot of extremism set in a long time ago, within the muchlauded institution itself. Those lovers of the small state and neo-liberalism have done a fine job of undermining British values. Their extreme ideology is a parasite eating away at the body politic from within, hollowing it out, until there is nothing left worth preserving. No wonder people have had enough and want significant change.

As supporters of Welsh Independence, will we now be perceived as one of the many new “enemies within”? Is it extreme to want a fairer society and a sovereign Welsh state? Is it extreme to want our natural resources to be harnessed and used for the benefit of those communities which never recovered from Thatcher’s actions in the 80s? Is this our “I am Spartacus” moment within the Welsh independence movement?

Sloppy drafting leads to legal issues

A SENEDD Committee has found legislation prepared for the Welsh Government is riddled with errors that take too long to correct.

Many think the laws and regulations affecting our everyday lives originate with Acts of Parliament

That is true, but only to an extent.

Government Acts, whether originating in Westminster or Cardiff Bay, are the primary means of legislation.

Underlying them is a multitude of secondary legislation, usually passed without or with barely any scrutiny.

‘Secondary legislation’ (also called ‘subordinate legislation’) is delegated legislation made by a person or body under authority contained in primary legislation.

Typically, powers to make secondary legislation may be conferred on ministers, the Crown, or public bodies.

The main types of secondary legislation are Statutory Instruments, Statutory Rules and Orders, and Church Instruments.

Three main types of UK Statutory Instruments exist: ‘Orders’, ‘Regulations’, and ‘Rules’. However, the descriptions that may be given to Statutory Instruments are unlimited. Other examples include ‘Scheme’, ‘Direction’,

and ‘Declaration’.

Different types of instruments serve different functions, but they all have the same legislative force. Before 1948, when the Statutory Instruments Act 1946 came into force, the equivalent instruments were known as ‘Statutory Rules and Orders’.

Primary legislation (Acts of the Senedd or UK Parliament) often gives Welsh Ministers powers to make secondary legislation, including regulations or orders.

Generally, the finer details of how laws operate are left to subordinate legislation.

This ‘subordinate legislation’ governs much of our daily lives.

Errors can lead to ineffective or inconsistent laws, which have realworld consequences for businesses and citizens.

In its Annual Report 2022/23, published in November 2023, the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee (‘the Committee’) expressed concern at the “high volume of errors occurring in Welsh Government subordinate legislation”, as well as the timeliness and process of making corrections.

For example, during the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Welsh Ministers exercised various powers under the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984 to make regulations. These regulations significantly impacted people’s lives, such as introducing

amending pension and compensation eligibility for firefighters.

One technical reporting point highlighted that, at one point, the English and Welsh texts had opposite meanings and contradicted each other.

In Wales, the Welsh and English language texts of legislation have equal status.

The Committee noted the error and drew it to the Welsh Ministers’ attention.

requirements to isolate where a person tested positive for coronavirus.

More recently, the Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Act 2024 gives Welsh Ministers the power to set “long-term targets in respect of any matter relating to air quality in Wales.”

Regulations will provide details about those targets, the levels, and the timescales over which they need to be achieved.

Different types of subordinate legislation can be made, and the Senedd’s role differs depending on the type.

The Legislation, Justice, and Constitution Committee has a special role.

It is responsible for scrutinising and reporting on each piece of subordinate legislation, as set out in the Senedd’s Standing Orders (the rules about how business in the Senedd is run).

The Committee issues reports on each piece and can raise both technical and merits points.

The Committee’s recent scrutiny has raised recurring issues with errors in subordinate legislation made by the Welsh Government. These include inconsistencies within texts, unclear definitions, incorrect references, and typographical errors.

For example, in January 2024, the Welsh Government produced secondary legislation

The Welsh Government initially stated that the text would be “amended accordingly at the next available opportunity”.

In February, it said an amending instrument would be introduced within “the next 8 to 10 weeks”.

Usually, subordinate legislation is corrected in two ways.

Introducing new legislation: A government can withdraw defective draft legislation and introduce a new draft. Once legislation has passed, the government may amend legislation to correct errors.

Correction slip: Slips are generally used to correct typographical errors rather than factual inaccuracies. They accompany the relevant online, PDF and printed legislation.

In February 2024, the Counsel General said correction slips would be used for “minor, technical, inconsequential” errors and that amending legislation would be used where there is a “more significant defect”.

However, the Chair of the Committee noted in January an example of a Minister seeking to use correction slips for more substantive corrections.

The Chair of the Committee also recently expressed concern over the clarity and transparency of information coming back to the Senedd after corrections are made, as well as over the time taken to make corrections.

UK Government ‘dodging scrutiny’

THE HOUSE OF COMMONS Business and Trade Committee Chair, Liam Byrne, has warned the UK Government to stop dodging scrutiny of flagship trade deals.

The warning follows the publication of the Government’s response to the Committee’s report on UK accession to the 11-country Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP).

The crossparty Committee’s report called on the Government to allow a debate and vote in the Commons during the brief statutory period when the House has the power under the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act to delay ratification of the agreement.

MPs on the Committee argued that joining CPTPP raises contentious issues that the Commons must be allowed to debate.

However, the Government failed to allow a debate.

In its response, it claims parliamentarians have already had the chance to debate CPTPP accession.

Committee Chair Liam Byrne observed that the Commons has not had the opportunity to debate all 30 chapters of CPTPP, along with the numerous side documents regarding UK accession.

The MPs noted that Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch had distanced herself from her officials’ figures on the economic benefits of joining CPTPP.

The Committee recommended that her Department conduct a new assessment of the gains from doing so. However, the response says this will not be done.

Also, the Government does not say what it will do to involve an independent body in assessing the impact of trade agreements – despite the minister telling the Committee she wanted to avoid “us marking our own homework”.

Committee Chair Liam Byrne said: “This is no longer merely an era of change. It is a change of era as we shift from a world of free trade to a new world of trusted trade where new questions of economic security are at the top of the agenda, alongside old questions of economic growth.

“The emerging world is full of new dilemmas and tradeoffs as now weigh the prizes of trade growth

MP Calls for UK Government to Suspend Arms Sales to Israel

Carmarthenshire MP, Jonathan Edwards, has called on the UK Government to suspend arms sales to Israel following news reports that the UK Government have received legal advice from its own lawyers that Israel is guilty of breaking international humanitarian law in Gaza. Health Authorities in Gaza calculate that over thirty thousand civilians have been killed since Israel invaded Gaza, and this week three UK aid workers, operating in Gaza, were killed by the Israeli army who bombed a designated aid convoy.

against the potential price of new risks to our security. That is why MPs must be allowed to debate all those issues in the round and come to a balanced overall judgment.

“With CPTPP, MPs have been denied this opportunity. At the same time, the Government has apparently cast aside its own analysis of the treaty’s benefits. So, should we just believe it’s right for the UK because the Government told us so?”

“We can only conclude that Ministers are dodging full and proper scrutiny. Ministers claim they could not find the time, but Parliament is sitting for the shortest sessions in years.

“I’m afraid the whole episode is conclusive proof that the way Parliament scrutinise trade treaties is no longer fit for purpose in this new age.”

Mr Edwards said: “To date the UK Government and the Labour party have a joint position of supporting the actions of the Israeli State in Gaza and supporting UK arms exports. Other politicians like myself have always questioned the wisdom of giving any country carte blanche right to act with impunity, and the reality is that the actions of Israel have been completely disproportionate and are making the Middle East incredibly unstable with unknown consequences.

was to control the Netanyahu Government then it has failed.

“If the UK Government has received legal advice from its own lawyers as reported that Israel is systematically breaking international law, then it must cease immediately to export arms. Otherwise, the UK will be potentially legally culpable for the horrors of Gaza. I fear morally, the UK has already positioned itself on the wrong side of events.

Mr Edwards has joined other MPs who are demanding that the UK Government publishes its legal advice.

“The rate of slaughter is Gaza is beyond comprehension, and the collective punishment strategy against the Palestinian people is illegal. The UK and the US are very much isolated in their foreign policy position in relation to the crisis. If its aim

“The UK Government and indeed the Leadership of the Labour party have been terribly naive throughout this whole crisis. I am calling on Ministers to publish the advice they have received and to act immediately to pursue an ethical foreign policy in relation to events in the Middle East.”

Kemi Badenoch: Can’t find time to answer questions

death notices

T HOMAS PATRICK

A LGEO

ALGEO Thomas Patrick of Roch. Thomas passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on the 14th March, 2024 aged 68 years. Dearly loved, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Funeral service, Monday 8th April 2024 at 11.00am at St. David & St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Haverfordwest followed by Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 12.15pm. Family flowers only. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

M ILDRED

G RIFFITHS

GRIFFITHS Mildred

Of Sardis. Mildred passed away peacefully on the 17th March, 2024 aged 90 years. Dearly loved, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Funeral service, Thursday 11th April 2024 at 2.00pm at St. Ismael’s Church, Rosemarket. Family flowers only. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

B R y NLE y WHISB y WHISBY Brynley

Milford Haven It is with great sadness the family announce the sudden passing of Bryn Whisby on Friday 15th March, aged 85. Beloved Husband of the late Ilene and Jan. The devoted and much loved Father of Elaine, Anne and Susan, as well as Grandad, Great Grandad, Brother, Uncle and Friend. There will be a private family cremation. Bryn will be forever missed by all his family and friends.

A NGELA FAITH

P EARSON

PEARSON Angela Faith

Peacefully at her home on Monday 25th March, Angela of Garn Fawr, Fishguard. Loving mother of Zoe, Ollie & Toby, treasured Nanny of Isabelle & Daniel, Jack & Millie and a dear sister. Funeral service on Thursday 11th April at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 10.45am. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Wales Air Ambulance’ c/o Paul

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

J ULIE A NN

O RSMAN

Orsman Julie Ann Mrs. Julie Ann Orsman of Lamphey died peacefully at Fairfield Nursing Home on Thursday 14th March, aged 87 years. Much loved and respected, Julie will be missed by all her family and friends. The funeral will be held on Friday 5th April at 2 p.m. in Lamphey Church. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired, for The Samaritans or Save The Children to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115.

R ONALD

F REDERICK (F RED )

M ALLIN

MALLIN Mr Ronald Frederick (Fred) Templeton Passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on 15th March, Fred was aged 83 He will be sadly

missed by his beloved wife Gillian, daughter Helen, son Dave and his grandchildren

Jacob, Olivia, Joe, Harri and Ffion The funeral service takes place on Friday, 5th April at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 10.45am There will be immediate family flowers only with donations in memory of Fred made payable to Cancer Research Wales or Wales Air

Ambulance c/o Funeral Directors

Messrs W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd Landsker House, 21 Station Road, Narberth, SA67 7DR or via www. rossitersfunerals.co.uk

A CKNOWLEDGEMENT

E DNA HICKS

The family would like to thank relatives and friends for attending the funeral and for the messages of sympathy received. With special

thanks to the Doctors and Nurses at Argyle Street Surgery, and the Paul Sartori Nurses for their care to Mum. We would also like to give special thanks to Paul Hay of E C Thomas and Son, Funeral Directors, for his guidance, help, kindness and dignity in arranging the funeral and also to Revd. Chris Lewis-Jenkins for conducting the funeral services.

le TT er S & no TI ce S

PIc Ture oF THe weeK!

LEARNING FROM ExAMPLES

DEAR SIR,

There are many indicators within the recent changes in British culture towards Rightwing, Conservative selfish beliefs of greed and cruelty, which display the power of all forms of Media, Advertising and Politics, deliberately distorting our children’s minds towards self-obsession.

Science gave us the huge potential of Blood Transfusion and Organ Donation, so 6% of British adults give blood, and surgeons have to use pig kidneys for transplant, because we prefer to incinerate our organs.

There is no self-

criticism in British voters, to lift them from conceited ignorance, that they chose hunger for school-children, just as their heroine, Margaret Thatcher, denied school milk to young bodies.

Yet Tory politicians declare that Brits are fine people, who only hate the helpless refugees, fleeing the economies we bombed.

Hamas in Gaza murdered the innocent Israelis in October 2023, and stand condemned to death or imprisonment, by every sane adult on Earth. As one might expect, such scum conceal their identity among innocent civilians, hiding from the justice of Israeli soldiers.

But dropping bombs, indiscriminately, on civilian

housing, killing children, just because evil Hamas murderers are hiding there, has dragged Israel down to the same level as Hamas. We should hunt Hamas murderers to the ends of the Earth, as soon as we can achieve that, but our search for justice, cannot justify dropping bombs, as we did in Iraq and Afghanistan, from the sky, onto innocent civilians.

We are outraged that Israeli forces have killed British subjects, by deliberately pinpointing their vehicles. Nationality is a childish measure by which to measure war and death, and those victims were the very finest Britons. We should learn from their lives, to live by their higher standards, ded-

ication to the young of every nation.

C. N. Westerman

CALLING FOR SAFER STREETS FOR OUR CHILDREN

DEAR SIR,

I am writing in support of national charity Living Streets’ call to see 60% of children walking to school by 2029. Fewer than half of primary school aged children walk to school in England, this is a drop from 70% a generation ago.

When we design streets for children, we create places that work better for everyone. Increased walking rates will reduce road casualties, improve health

and air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and boost our economy.

A combination of ambitious yet realistic targets, at least 10% of transport budgets spent on active travel, improved road safety in our neighbourhoods and empowering local authorities to make the right transport decisions, would go a long way to creating safer streets for children to walk and play.

I urge all political parties to ensure the walk to school is at the heart of their transport policy this election year. The impact of this investment will also help tackle the current climate, economic and health crises.

JUDITH SWAIN

Broadhaven South by Siân B Davies

Friday April 5th 2024

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Christopher secures Rooks win over his former club.

Derby Drama: Carew Triumph 3-1 Over Tenby United

The Gerald Hicks Recreation Ground witnessed a Derby day clash as Division 1 contenders, Tenby United, locked horns with local rivals, Carew.

Despite recent adverse weather, the home team ensured the pitch was ready and primed for action.

From the outset, Tenby’s offensive prowess was evident, yet a setback struck early with Captain Dan Storer’s injury holding up play very early on but he’s made of stern stuff and came back on bandaged up to help his team. Tenby’s resilience shone through as they continued to dominate proceedings early on although Carew’s defense, marshaled superbly by Gareth Lewis and Sam Southcott, stood firm, eventually turning the tide with a well-deserved goal from Hinchy at the half-hour mark, and Carew taking

the lead 1-0.

The second half mirrored the first, with Tenby pressing forward but Carew using their experience by capitalising on the counter, extending their lead to 2-0. Not giving up, Tenby’s determination paid off, pulling one back through the skilled

Milford win the battle of the ‘Robins’

A LATE pitch inspection at Marble Hall took place and the pitch was deemed playable. As Parks’ team hosted Carl Vincent’s Pennar Robins.

Both teams started the game wanting to dominate the play and Milford started using the home advantage and knocking the ball around trying to get a breakthrough, a few runs by in form Tyler Sheil on the left side opened up a few half chances, it was one of these runs that saw Sheil go down in the box with Milford expecting the referee to point to the spot but it was not given. On the 14th Minute Milford broke the deadlock when Anthony Hubbuck slotted home from 12 yards to make it 1-0.

Pennar started to press and played some good football and got the equaliser through Edmundson on the 43rd minute who struck the ball in the box past the out stretched Milford keeper

Charley Malloy. The second half started with both teams getting half chances and on the 55th minute Liam Parr latched onto a pass from Hubbuck and showed great determination & strength to hold off Pennar’s centre back and scored Milford’s 2nd to make it 2-1. It wasn’t long before Scott Reid made his mark and on the 62nd minute he fired into the top corner of Pennar’s goal after a fine pass by Sam Davies.

The game ended 3-1 to Milford and Steve Parks was pleased with his teams form winning their last 4 league games in a row and another 3 points to take Milford within 1 point of a 3rd place spot.

Adam Muskett just a few minutes later, setting the stage for a thrilling last 40 mins at 2-1.

Despite spirited efforts from both sides, Carew’s Sam Christopher sealed the deal with a third goal. Tenby fought valiantly but couldn’t overturn the deficit, with the match finishing with a 3-1

victory for Carew.

Under the watchful eye of referee Marty Jones, the game epitomised the intensity of derby day clashes, characterised by passion and competitiveness. Both teams showcased respect for the officiating, culminating in postmatch camaraderie and

shared hospitality back at the clubhouse.

A fantastic game and great advert for Pembrokeshire League Division One football, Kudos to both teams for an exemplary attitude and efforts both on and off the pitch.

Well played both teams.

No West Wales Cup Final for Goodwick United

TUESDAY night saw the semi final of the West Wales cup played between Penlan and Goodwick United. Two very good outfits met in what was always going to be a great game. With the Pembrokeshire based team dreaming of a treble, it wasn’t to be as this proved a step too far.

Penlan had lready beaten Milford United 3-0 in this competition and this was always going to be a challenge for Goodwick. Two goals just before half time for Penlan meant it was 2-0 at the oranges.

Goodwick came out knowing they had a real task on their hands now. O’Sullivan made a change early into the second half Dockerty replaced Greene, and soon after Haworth pulled one back for Goodwick. Comeback on? Or was it. As Goodwick pushed for an equaliser, Darren Rowe struck the

killer blow. He made it 3-1 Penlan. Frustration begun to boil over for Goodwick, when First Aider Lee Morgan saw red for his behaviour on the sidelines.

Huge disappointment for Goodwick and all involved, it doesn’t

take away from an outstanding season. However this would have been a competition they would have loved to win. They remain on course for the league title and will take some stopping in the senior cup.

Broad Haven II

Lawrenny II v Milford Athletic II

Wales’ boxing darling in world title fight BOXING

LAUREN PRICE MBE

challenges Jessica McCaskill for WBA, IBO & Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on May 11th In Cardiff.

Price can become first female world champion from Wales if she is able to overcome former undisputed champion McCaskill.

McCaskill vs Price tops a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital as Price looks to secure World honours at home.All the action is available to watch live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE will challenge Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Following a

glittering amateur career that saw her claim Commonwealth, European and World glory on route to making history as the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, Price (6-0, 1 KO) can write her name in the record books again by becoming Wales’ first female world champion.

The 29-year-old from Ystrad Mynach is yet to lose a round in the professional ranks but will face by far her toughest career test when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill (12-3-1, 5 KOs).

McCaskill versus Price will top a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital as Price looks to secure world honours in front of her home fans. Price is no stranger to representing her country on the world stage having earned 52 caps for the Welsh national football team before deciding to focus her talents on boxing.

McCaskill, from Chicago, Illinois, is a twoweight world champion, who unified the WBA and WBC World Super Lightweight Titles before moving up in weight to end Cecilia Brækhus’ decade long reign at the top of the welterweight division.

Toppling Braekhus with back-to-back wins in 2021 and 2022, McCaskill became undisputed champion at 147 lbs, a weight class where she remains undefeated.

McCaskill has previously challenged Katie Taylor for the WBA World Lightweight Title in 2017 and Chantelle Cameron for the Undisputed Super Lightweight World Titles in 2022. Most recently, McCaskill fought to a draw with Britain’s Sandy Ryan in a fiercely contested welterweight unification clash.

Lauren Price MBE said: “I’m over the moon for this fight to finally be getting announced. I

know Ben Shalom and my team have been working very hard behind the scenes to make this happen so I just want to say a big thank you to them.

“The fact it’s in Cardiff is amazing. I’ve not boxed there since I first started out which was a good few years back now. I can’t wait to put on a show in front of my friends, family and Welsh supporters who have been great in supporting me throughout my career. It’ll be an incredible night for sure, to beat the reigning champion in Wales and keep the world titles here will be some feeling!

“Jessica McCaskill is the current champion. She’s game, experienced and strong but I’ll be 100% ready for whatever she brings on the night. I believe in my ability. I back myself and like I said earlier, I can’t wait to bring those world titles back home to Wales, and hopefully this will line me

up to bring more massive nights back to Wales in the near future.”

Jessica McCaskill said: “I don’t know much about Price but when it comes to fighters from the UK the expectation is usually lots of back pedalling and holding. I don’t know if this will be the case but coming to Wales means Price is hopefully going to want to put on a good show. That’s exactly what I want because I plan on doing the same. I’m here to steal all of her fans. I’m going to show her what it takes to be a champion and the belts will be coming back to America with me.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “Lauren Price is one of the most talented and decorated athletes that Wales has ever produced. With that, as a promoter, comes great pressure to deliver nights that can forge a legacy. I’m delighted to deliver a huge

world title opportunity for Lauren against a very dangerous and experienced champion in Jessica McCaskill. This is a chance for Lauren to establish herself as one of boxing’s future poundfor-pound stars. I believe we are looking at an icon of the sport. She is already a gold medallist, already an MBE, and this is a real milestone and a monumental moment in her career. This is something she has worked towards since she first put on a pair of gloves. I expect a hero’s welcome for her in Cardiff and hopefully a historic performance and the first of many memorable nights in Wales.”

Lauren Price MBE challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Championships on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Twin brothers may have to compete

EMBARKING on an

Olympic quest is a formidable challenge, but when your twin brother becomes your competitor, the journey takes on an entirely new dimension. Such is the predicament facing Wales’ Ioan and Garan Croft, twin pugilists hailing from the quaint village of Crymych in Pembrokeshire.

The Croft twins, both aged just 21, enjoyed a stellar 2022 campaign in the boxing arena, with Ioan clinching a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games and a bronze at the European championships, while Garan secured a bronze at the Commonwealths and an impressive silver at the European championships.

Reflecting on their achievements amidst tough competition, Garan shared his sentiments, “I was obviously

gutted at the time... against high-class opponents as well.”

His brother Ioan echoed a similar sentiment, “For me to win the Commonwealths just rounded off a near perfect year.”

Their journey, rooted in the supportive atmosphere of Cardigan ABC, has garnered widespread local admiration. Ioan remarked, “Round here when someone starts doing well everyone gets behind them... starting to do well.”

However, the path forward presents a formidable challenge. With the restructuring of Olympic weight classes, Ioan is compelled to move up to his brother’s division, thereby setting the stage for a fraternal showdown. “It’s not ideal but it’s what we’re working with at the moment,” Ioan acknowledged. Navigating this familial

TySON V PAUL

MIKE TYSON has unequivocally quashed speculations surrounding his upcoming bout against Jake Paul, asserting that there will be no headgear or oversized gloves involved.

The boxing icon, known as ‘Iron Mike’, is poised to make a triumphant return to the ring on July 20th, facing off against social media phenomenon Paul in what promises to be one of the most hotly debated fights of the year. Set to unfold at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, the event could draw a staggering 80,000-strong crowd.

While Tyson acknowledges that the match will be classified as an exhibition, thus sparing both him and Paul from any blemish on their professional records, several specifics regarding the fight’s regulations remain murky. Dismissing suggestions that he would don 16oz gloves and a protective headguard, Tyson clarified to Fox News, “No, not true, not true at all. This is called an exhibition, but if you look up exhibition, you won’t see any of the laws we’re fighting under. This is a fight.”

rivalry requires maturity and perspective. Garan aptly summarised their approach, “We’re just going to have to go for it ourselves and be mature about it and do what’s best.”

Yet, amidst the competitive fervour, one principle remains inviolable: the Croft twins will never step into the ring against each other. “It would just be out of the question really. It wouldn’t make any sense,” Ioan asserted. Garan concurred, emphasising, “Whatever happens we’ll never box each other.”

As they embark on this shared yet distinctly individual journey towards Olympic glory, the Croft twins exemplify not only athletic prowess but also unwavering familial bonds, reminding us that even amidst competition, some lines are never meant to be crossed.

Expressing confidence in his abilities, Tyson brushed off concerns about Paul’s speed, remarking, “I don’t think he’s faster than me. I’ve seen a YouTube video of him at 16 doing weird dancing. That’s not the guy I’m fighting. This is a guy who’s going to try and hurt me, which I’m accustomed to, and he’s going to be greatly mistaken. As the fight gets closer, the less nervous I become because it’s reality, and in reality I’m invincible.”

Having last stepped into the ring for an eightround bout against fellow legend Roy Jones Jr. in November 2020, the 57-year-old Tyson conceded that he was far from his peak physical condition during that encounter. However, he affirmed that he’s already commenced rigorous training for his clash with Paul, despite it being months away. Despite his admitted trepidation about returning to boxing, Tyson believes that confronting his fears head-on will ultimately work in his favour.

“I have a weird personality - I don’t think it’s weird though. Whatever I’m afraid to do, I do it. That’s how it is,” Tyson confessed. “I was afraid of the Roy [Jones] fight. I was 100 pounds overweight, I was however old, 54, 53, and I said ‘Let’s do it.’ Anything I’m afraid of, I confront it. That’s my personality. Right now, I’m scared to death.”

In a departure from traditional boxing matches, the Paul versus Tyson spectacle will not declare a winner, with no judges tasked with scoring the bout. Furthermore, details regarding the undercard remain elusive, as the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations has divulged that the only information