The Pembrokeshire Herald E-Edition

DAmNINg REPORT HIgHLIgHTS crisis at Parc Prison • P14

Residents meet councillor and police at community event

RESIDENTS in Monkton had the chance to speak directly with their local councillor and police officers this week (Apr 22) during a community engagement event held at Tenby Court.

The “meet the street” event was attended by County Councillor Jonathan Grimes, who represents Pembroke St Mary South and Monkton, alongside officers from Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Police.

Also present was Danny from Pembrokeshire County Council’s housing team, who offered on-thespot support to residents dealing with housing-related issues.

Cllr Grimes thanked all those who came out to say hello and take part in the initiative, which aims to bring local services closer to the community.

These “meet the street” events are part of an ongoing effort to improve communication between local authorities and residents, addressing concerns and offering help where needed.

Former chief constable appointed head of UK animal health agency

THE FORMER Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police, Richard Lewis, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Dr Lewis, who also led Cleveland Police and held national portfolios for the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), will take up his new role on 16 June 2025. He succeeds Dr Jenny Stewart, who has served as interim Chief Executive since July last year.

The APHA is responsible for safeguarding animal and plant health across the UK, working to protect the environment, support the rural economy, and ensure the UK meets international biosecurity standards.

Dr Lewis said: “It’s a real honour to be appointed Chief Executive of APHA. Now more than ever, the UK needs a

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strong, science-led Animal and Plant Health Agency. “From protecting our borders against animal and plant threats to unlocking opportunities for trade and growth, I’m excited to champion APHA’s vital work — and to lead alongside the world-class scientists and experts who make it possible.”

During his policing career, Dr Lewis was awarded a commendation for distinguished service and was widely respected for his leadership on rural affairs in Wales. He has worked on issues including habitat protection, tackling rural crime, and addressing mental health challenges in agricultural communities.

The APHA is an executive agency sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, the

Welsh Government and the Scottish Government.

Templeton pensioner admits assaulting police officer and making nuisance calls

A TEMPLETON woman has admitted making repeated nuisance calls to emergency services and assaulting a police officer.

Ann Gatley, aged 78, of Chapel Hill Lane, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court charged with two offences following incidents earlier this month.

The court heard that between April 7 and April 9, Gatley persistently misused the public communications network with the intention of causing annoyance, inconvenience or anxiety.

She was also charged with

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assaulting a female police officer in the Narberth area on April 9. Gatley pleaded guilty to both offences when she appeared in court on Thursday (Apr 11).

Magistrates adjourned sentencing to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared. Gatley is due to appear at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on May 6.

She was granted bail until that date, with a condition that she must not contact emergency services unless in a genuine emergency.

Paddleboarding boss jailed after deaths of four in river tragedy

Judge condemns ‘flagrant disregard’ for safety as four families left devastated by tour leader’s fatal failings

THE OWNER of a paddleboarding business has been jailed for ten years and six months after admitting causing the deaths of four people on a flooded river in Haverfordwest in what the judge called a “wholesale failure” to consider safety.

Nerys Bethan Lloyd, 39, from Aberavon, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday (Apr 22) after pleading guilty to four counts of gross negligence manslaughter and a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act.

The tragic incident occurred on 30 October 2021, when Lloyd, through her company Salty Dog Co Ltd, organised a paddleboarding trip on the swollen River Cleddau in Pembrokeshire. The river was in full flood, with severe weather warnings in place, and fast-moving water surging over the Haverfordwest Town Weir.

Nicola Wheatley, 40, Morgan Rogers, 24, Andrea Powell, 41, and co-instructor Paul O’Dwyer, 42, all drowned after being swept into the base of the weir. Despite visible dangers, Lloyd led the group into the water without providing

a safety briefing or even informing participants that a weir lay ahead. Four of the group survived, while four did not.

NO sAFETy MEAsuREs, NO Risk AssEssMENT

The court heard how Lloyd, who had only basic paddleboarding qualifications, ignored advice from her co-instructor Paul O’Dwyer, who had suggested alternative routes. Lloyd dismissed those routes as “too boring”, the judge said, and led the group straight down the river, aiming for the fish pass at the centre of the weir—either as a risky plan or with no clear plan at all.

None of the participants had the appropriate quick-release safety leashes for fast-flowing water, and several had no wetsuits. One person had opted not to wear a life jacket, and Lloyd had made no effort to check their experience levels or provide instruction. The judge said the group were “cheering and laughing”

as they launched, completely unaware of the life-threatening danger ahead. They were pulled into the hydraulic spin at the base of the weir—described in court as akin to a “washing machine”— and were unable to escape. Mr O’Dwyer, who had initially steered clear of the worst of the water, jumped back in to try and save others, but also lost his life.

POLiCE: ‘COMPLETELy AvOiDAbLE’

Dyfed-Powys Police, who led the joint investigation with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), said the deaths were “completely avoidable”.Detective Superintendent Cameron Ritchie, senior investigating officer, said: “Firstly, I would like to reiterate my heartfelt sympathies to the families of Paul, Andrea, Morgan and Nicola.

We have heard harrowing testimony from the victims and survivors during this hearing of the continuing impact this incident has had on them. I sincerely hope that the conclusion of these proceedings helps to clear the way for them to be able to start the healing process.

The incident that took place in Haverfordwest was an extremely tragic case resulting in the completely avoidable deaths of four people.

This has been a complex and extensive investigation and I’d like to thank my colleagues at Dyfed-Powys Police, the Health and Safety Executive and the Crown Prosecution Service for their professionalism and diligence in securing this outcome.”

HsE: ‘sHE RObbED THEM OF THE CHANCE TO DECiDE’

HSE Inspector Helen Turner also issued a damning statement: “Four

The decision to paddle down the fish ramp at in the River Cleddau was a flagrant breach of health and safety protocol, the court heard (Image: Herald)

Nerys Bethan Lloyd arrives at court on Wednesday for sentencing (Image: BBC)

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lives were needlessly lost and survivors traumatised by their experience at Haverfordwest Weir.

Nerys Lloyd was solely responsible for the decision to enter the water while the river was in flood, and for the attempt to take even inexperienced paddlers over the weir. This was completely reckless and the risk of death was foreseeable.

The victims placed their trust in Lloyd to deliver a safe and enjoyable paddle, but through her incompetence, carelessness and complacency she failed to plan or assess the obvious risk at the weir or to take even basic safety measures.

By not discussing the hazards on the route Lloyd robbed the participants of the opportunity to make a reasoned decision on their own participation that day.”

‘yOu CALLED THE sHOTs’ –juDgE

Mrs Justice Mary Stacey said Lloyd had been in full control of the tour and bore sole responsibility for its

planning and execution. She rejected the defence’s claims that Lloyd’s social media activity after the tragedy was innocent, describing it as “insensitive” in a community still grieving. She did, however, accept that Lloyd’s guilty plea, lack of previous convictions, and references from supporters provided some mitigation.

“You called the shots,” the judge said, noting that Paul O’Dwyer had made efforts to divert the group away from danger, but Lloyd had dismissed him. “The lives of four people were cut short in their prime because of your decisions.”

FAMiLiEs LEFT DEvAsTATED

Heartbreaking victim impact statements were read during the twoday hearing. Morgan Rogers’ parents described the pain of losing their daughter, who had just begun training for the fire service. Her father said, “My family will have a life sentence of grief for our remaining days.”

Nicola Wheatley’s husband Darren accused Lloyd of cowardice and

deception, saying: “You are a vile person and you disgust me.” He recalled having to identify his wife’s body, a moment that still haunts him.

Andrea Powell’s husband described seeing his wife unconscious and bruised in hospital and hearing their son sob that he wanted to die to be with his mother. Paul O’Dwyer was remembered as a loving husband and father who had died trying to save others.

CPs: ‘THE TRAgEDy WAs COMPLETELy AvOiDAbLE’

Lisa Rose, Specialist Prosecutor with the CPS Special Crime Division, said: “Nerys Lloyd should not have taken participants on the water that day. The heavy flooding had left the river running very fast and it was beyond the remit of a beginner’s tour.

Lloyd was not qualified to take inexperienced paddleboarders out in such conditions. Her actions fell far below the standard expected of a paddleboard instructor and activity planner.

There are no words that can

articulate the devastation this tragedy has caused, and I can only hope this sentence provides a sense of justice for those affected.”

sENTENCE AND AFTERMATH

Lloyd received ten years’ imprisonment for the four counts of gross negligence manslaughter, with a further six months for the health and safety offence. The judge acknowledged that Lloyd may never fully recover from what happened—but said the victims’ families will live with the consequences forever.

The case has triggered renewed calls for tighter regulation of commercial paddleboarding activities and clearer safety standards, particularly when rivers are in flood or feature hidden hazards like weirs.

As Lloyd begins her prison sentence, the families of the four victims continue to grieve their immense loss—and hope that others in the adventure activity industry will learn the lessons of that tragic October day.

Milford Haven man to face trial over knife charge

A MiLFORD HAvEN man is set to stand trial accused of carrying a pocket knife with a blade exceeding the legal limit.

Lee Lock, 37, is alleged to have had the knife hidden beneath a car seat

while driving through Honeyborough Industrial Estate, Neyland, on June 5, 2024.

The Crown Prosecution Service claims the blade measured 7.62 centimetres in length—over the 7 cm

threshold permitted by law. Lock appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week via video link from HM Swansea Prison, where he pleaded not guilty to possessing a knife blade in a public place.

His trial has been scheduled for June 9 at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court. Lock, of Coombs Road, Milford Haven, was remanded in custody due to concerns he may fail to surrender to bail.

Morgan Rogers, 24, Nicola Wheatley, 40, Andrea Powell, 41, and co-instructor Paul O’Dwyer, 42—were swept over a weir in fast-flowing floodwater

Biggest feature film shot entirely in Wales released today

HAvOC, the biggest feature film ever shot entirely in Wales, premieres today (Friday, April 25) on Netflix. backed by Welsh government agency Creative Wales, the highoctane action-thriller stars Tom Hardy and is written and directed by Welsh-born gareth Evans, known for The Raid, Apostle, and gangs of London.

The film follows a deal gone wrong, with a bruised detective battling through a criminal underworld to rescue a politician’s estranged son. Production took place at Great Point Studios in Cardiff, Dragon Studios in Bridgend, and on location throughout South Wales.

Wales is rapidly emerging as one of Netflix’s key global production hubs. Recent hits like Sex Education—filmed at multiple South Wales locations over four seasons—were made possible through Creative Wales support, creating hundreds of local jobs and over 60 trainee placements. Many of these roles have led to permanent employment for young Welsh creatives.

According to a new economic impact report by Netflix, its Welsh-based productions have contributed over £200 million to the UK economy since 2020, involving more than 500 businesses across Wales.

In recognition of its Welsh roots, HAVOC will be available with Welshlanguage subtitles, continuing Netflix’s commitment to accessibility and cultural inclusion. Previous Welsh-subtitled releases include The Adam Project, starring Ryan Reynolds, and Dal Y Mellt, the first Welsh-language drama on Netflix originally produced for S4C.

HAVOC is the latest in a series of high-profile productions supported by Creative Wales. Past successes include HBO’s House of the Dragon, Amazon’s Young Sherlock, and the acclaimed biopic Mr Burton.

To date, Creative Wales has invested £28.6 million in the screen sector—an investment projected to generate over £342 million for the Welsh economy. For every £1 invested, nearly £12 has been returned, funding over 420 trainee placements and apprenticeships and helping to build a sustainable pipeline of Welsh creative talent.

Anna Mallet, Vice President of Production, UK at Netflix, said: “From Sex Education to The Crown, and now HAVOC, some of our most beloved titles were filmed or produced in Wales. Blessed with incredible creative talent and beautiful natural landscapes, Wales is an amazing place to make entertainment. We’re proud that our Welsh productions continue to create enduring cultural and economic opportunities.”

Jack Sargeant, Culture Minister for Wales, added: “We are immensely proud of our Welsh creative industries, which employ over 35,000 people. With world-class infrastructure for film and television, we’re delighted to work with Netflix,

HBO, Amazon and others to bring major productions to Wales. These collaborations support jobs, skills development, and bring significant investment into our economy—while showcasing the best of Wales to a global audience.”

Havoc whilst filming was taking place in Cardiff (Image: Mike Jordan/X)

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Milford Haven dealer jailed after police chase crash

A COCAiNE dealer from Milford Haven has been locked up after he and an accomplice crashed during a high-speed police chase with thousands of pounds’ worth of drugs in their car.

Dylan Brown, aged 20, was sentenced to 18 months in detention after he admitted being involved in the supply of cocaine and cannabis.

He had been a passenger in a Mercedes driven by Harrison Billing, which failed to stop for police at around 10:50pm on December 27 in Milford Haven.

Prosecutor Ashanti-Jade Walton told the court that Billing sped through a junction at high speed and attempted to turn from Hamilton Terrace onto Francis Street. However, he lost control of the vehicle, crashing into the side of a Grade II listed building where a family with three young children were inside.

The impact caused over £6,000 of damage to the property’s brickwork and wrought iron railings.

Both men ran from the vehicle but were arrested shortly afterwards.

Officers searched the car and found approximately 70 grams of high-purity cocaine, estimated to be worth over £4,000, as well as four mobile phones and £925.31 in cash.

Analysis of one of the phones, which

belonged to Brown, revealed messages showing he was actively involved in dealing both cocaine and cannabis. These included enquiries from customers such as “You active?” and “What’s your prices?”, and messages from Billing reprimanding him, including one that read: “You need to be serious about this s*** because you’re losing me money.”

Brown, of Chestnut Way, Milford Haven, admitted possession with intent to supply cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis, and possession of criminal property. He told the court he was acting under the direction of Billing.

Billing has also pleaded guilty to similar charges but will be sentenced at a later date due to separate offences.

In mitigation, defence solicitor Jon Tarrant said Brown had shown immaturity and had not reoffended since the incident, expressing a desire to turn away from criminal activity.

Judge Geraint Walters noted that Brown had no previous convictions for drug offences and described him as “not a typical dealer type.” He referred to messages from Billing that labelled Brown as “dopey” and complained he was costing him money.

A Proceeds of Crime hearing will follow once Billing has been sentenced.

Social care crisis highlights the need for funding reform

EviDENCE suggests that local government settlements are insufficient to maintain adult social care without hitting other local authority services.

The troubling data show social care funding pressures affecting councils across England and Wales. Those pressures are particularly concerning for councils such as Pembrokeshire’s, where demographic changes have increased demand without enough funding to match.

PREssuRE AND MORE PREssuRE

Councils in Wales are experiencing severe and growing funding pressures in adult social care. For 2024-25, £106 million in-year pressures were identified, with an additional £223 million anticipated for the current financial year. These figures represent about 40% of the total local government funding pressure to maintain current service levels.

The demand for adult social care is increasing due to demographic changes, including an ageing population and greater complexity of care needs. Between 2013 and 2037, net expenditure for community care services for older people is expected to rise by 177%.

In Pembrokeshire, pressures are even higher. The difference between the real cost of social care and the money available to the local authority to pay for it is among the highest in Wales. In addition, increased demand, consistent with an ageing population, compounds Pembrokeshire’s problems.

That is a simple function of economics. When demand increases, and the income to meet demand is finite and falling in value, money must come from elsewhere in the Council’s resources.

Suppose in-year spending on social care goes up once the budget is set. In that case, the Council must find

savings elsewhere. The only places those savings can come from are other service budgets, staff layoffs, or making good the shortfall from reserves that must be replenished in future years. To try to address that issue, Pembrokeshire County Council initiated a reserve for urgent in-year pressures for the current financial year.

The outcomes of those pressures are predictable and well-known in Pembrokeshire. Financial constraints led to closures and cuts to adult daycare facilities, sparking community protests and concern for those who rely on them. Library funding has been cut, and savings have been found in leisure budgets. “Vacancy management”, a euphemism for not replacing staff who have left, is an indirect cut to back office services.

Not so long ago, the Council provided extensive face-to-face services in County Hall’s North Wing reception. Now, that service has been cut to the bone. Where the cubicles were to meet customers is now a jumble of desks and furniture. County Hall’s offices are often almost deserted, and not only because of home working.

Council Tax, the bane of Pembrokeshire’s social media, has not resulted in more services because increases in it have barely covered increasing costs (if they have at all).

CARE HOMEs ON THE FRONTLiNE

Because Councils are obliged to run balanced budgets and have annual budget settlements for all aspects of their spending, service planning has become a lottery. Council budgets are based on an element of guesswork based on predicted future funding and past performance. Pembrokeshire’s is no different.

The Council is, however, only one part of the picture. Most care homes in Pembrokeshire are privately owned. They are businesses. To remain viable, they must turn a profit.

The challenges care providers face in making their businesses work are every bit as difficult as those facing their major customer, the local authority. That is because of the postcode lottery of care funding. You might imagine that because adult social care is a national necessity, the rates at which care providers are paid for the care they deliver are uniform. They are not.

Different county councils pay different rates to social care providers. Pembrokeshire County Council’s rates for adult social care are higher than neighbouring counties. In North Wales, the gap between different local authorities is even greater, with councils there among the worst payers in Wales.

That is nonsense. Imagine the outcry if nurses in Bridgend were paid more than those in Carmarthen for doing the same work. Yet the Welsh Government demonstrates no sign of addressing the issue, whether now or after rummaging in the long grass into which they kicked social care.

Care homes in Pembrokeshire have warned of instability in provision. The roots of that instability are increased costs from rises in National Insurance and the Real Living Wage. One local group operating six care homes faces a £150,000 annual hit from these changes. That raises the risk of closures. It also increases pressure on families to pay third-party top-up fees.

Smaller care homes, and plenty of those exist in Pembrokeshire, are particularly vulnerable, and some may be forced to close without urgent financial support.

sTAFF sHORTAgEs

Like many rural and peripheral areas,

Pembrokeshire faces acute challenges in recruiting and retaining social care staff. The Council acknowledges Pembrokeshire’s location exacerbates recruitment issues and that workforce shortages are a persistent problem across all services.

Staff report high workloads and everyday challenges in meeting care needs due to a lack of resources. This affects their ability to deliver timely assessments and reviews and sometimes leads to delays in providing the level of care people need.

The shortage of domiciliary support services is particularly acute, impacting the delivery of care and support in the community. Companies like Community Interest Care CIC deliver care in Pembrokeshire. However, the overwhelming majority of its care staff come from overseas because local residents are unwilling or unable to take jobs in domiciliary care. Similarly, many care homes are forced to recruit staff from overseas because of a shortage of locals prepared to work in the care sector.

When you can make the same or a better hourly rate doing a less onerous job, it’s hard not to understand why that’s the case. Increased workloads, stress, fatigue, and burnout are common among staff, exacerbated by rising demand and insufficient staffing levels. These factors negatively affect wellbeing and retention. Care Inspectorate Wales reports that nearly a quarter of social care workers report financial difficulties, and a significant proportion are dissatisfied with their pay.

HiDDEN CARE

Carers Week research found that more care is being provided by unpaid carers than ever before, with 23% of adults in Wales (approximately 584,134 people) providing unpaid care to family or friends, a higher percentage than in

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Care on the cheap for the state: Social care depends on unpaid carers Increasing costs: The current model of social care is unsustainable

Recruitment problems: Many care staff come to Pembrokeshire from overseas

The estimated value of unpaid care in Wales is £8.1 billion per year. Meanwhile, unpaid carers provide 96% of all care in Wales. Reducing the burden on the NHS and care funding and throwing responsibility for it onto families is a cheap solution to a major social issue.

The intensity of care provided by unpaid carers has also increased. The number of people providing over 50 hours of care per week has risen by 30% across the UK. Providing more care reduces the chance to cope financially, as carers are less able to work, pushing them into poverty and financial hardship.

Almost half (48%) of unpaid carers surveyed had to give up paid work because of their caring role. 42% said they had to cut back on other household spending to manage caring, and 31% had to cut back on food.

Unpaid carers often face additional living costs. This includes higher energy costs to help manage the cared-

for person’s condition and to power specialist equipment, higher food bills due to specific nutritional requirements, higher transport costs due to accessible transport needs and increased travel to medical appointments.

Carers UK found that over half (51%) of unpaid carers in Wales said they were unable to manage their monthly expenses. The February 2022 research found that 66% of carers had cut back on heating. 41% of carers were worried they would have to use a foodbank in the months ahead.

That financial pressure is unsustainable. When carers break down and become unable to continue caring, the costs of care pass to local authorities. Yet unpaid care - and care funded from Carers Allowance - is fundamental to the UK and Welsh Government’s plans for social care. Pembrokeshire residents know only too well the refrain that care is better delivered at home or in the community. However, funding families who provide care is at the bottom of

Police appeal after burglary in Milford Haven

DyFED-POWys Police is investigating a domestic burglary which occurred at an address in Precelly Place, Milford Haven, on Wednesday (Apr 23).

Officers hand-delivered letters to

residents in the area on Thursday (Apr 24), appealing for information that may assist with the investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage and enquiries are ongoing.

Driver claims he did not know he was disqualified

A PEMbROkE DOCk motorist accused of driving while disqualified has denied all charges, telling a court he had no knowledge of the disqualification order.

Jake Jones was stopped by police on April 2 while driving a Ford Ranger along St Johns Road in Pembroke Dock. Checks revealed he was allegedly disqualified from driving and uninsured. He was subsequently charged with driving while disqualified and driving without third party insurance.

However, when the case was heard at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, his solicitor Gary Roper

said Jones had no knowledge of the disqualification, which was allegedly imposed in January 2025.

“He did not know that he was a disqualified driver and he was unaware of any proceedings that would have led to such a disqualification,” Mr Roper told the court.

“As a result, he can’t accept that he was the person who was disqualified because he’d seen no paperwork in respect of it.”

Jones, of Ferry Terrace, Pembroke Dock, pleaded not guilty to both charges.

He was granted unconditional bail and will stand trial on June 16.

the barrel for funding. While individual funding initiatives deliver occasional respite from the pressures for those who qualify, navigating access to the funding is not straightforward.

LiFE iN THE LONg gRAss

The issue pulls together two important strands of public policy. First, there is a need to reform the whole structure of local government finance. Second, a similar need exists to reform how social care is funded and who is responsible for delivering it. As things stand, councils cannot continue to run social care. They do not have the money.

Piecemeal reform will no longer suffice to deal with the significant problems of a population rapidly growing older and living longer in ill health. The unintended consequence of improving

public health and increasing longevity is that the costs associated with health and social care are exponentially higher than was ever predicted when funding models were created.

While the Welsh Government plans reform of local authority funding, the political will to do so is noticeable by its complete absence. Similarly, plans exist to integrate health and social care provision more closely (as envisaged by the Beveridge Report and the Act of Parliament that created the NHS in the first place). That does not mean handing the social care budget over to the NHS money pit. It does mean another national mechanism for care delivery. Whether that is ever going to happen and how it will be funded if not from general taxation or a variation of Theresa May’s so-called “death tax” - are questions no government wants to address.

Drug addict jailed for crime spree

A PEMbROkEsHiRE man whose life spiralled out of control due to drug addiction has been sentenced to eight months in prison following a series of offences across the county.

Rowan Clark, aged 24, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court via video link from Swansea Prison on Tuesday (Apr 16), having pleaded guilty to 12 separate offences committed while under the influence of drugs.

The charges included possession of a large knife in a public place, failure to attend a drugs assessment at DyfedPowys Police headquarters, interfering with a Blue Honda in Pembroke from which a Pandora bracelet and AirPods were stolen, and causing criminal damage to property belonging to Pembrokeshire County Council, valued at £602.78.

Clark also admitted damaging the door of Greathead and Whitelock Solicitors in Pembroke by kicking it— causing £62 worth of damage—as well as failing to surrender to custody after being granted bail.

He further admitted four separate

thefts of alcohol totalling £105.60 and two thefts of groceries worth £55.90.

Clark, who is of no fixed address, was represented by solicitor Tom Lloyd, who told the court: “Each of these offences is linked to his issues with drug use. He’s also experienced homelessness, which has made things worse and led to more offending.

“When he’s clean, he’s a pleasure to be around. But he has gone on a downward spiral, and things have spiralled completely out of control.”

Mr Lloyd added that since being remanded in custody, Clark had begun to address his drug issues and was “benefitting tremendously” from the prison environment.

“He wants to better himself,” he added.

Magistrates were presented with a comprehensive probation report recommending immediate custody. Clark was sentenced to eight months in prison and ordered to pay £1,019.58 in compensation, £170 in court costs, and a £187 victim surcharge.

A forfeiture and destruction order was also made in relation to the knife.

the other UK nations.

Town Council set to meet with key elections and financial reports on agenda

COuNCiL will hold a Full Council meeting on Monday (April 28) at 7:00pm at the sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets unit on Havens Head business Park.

Councillors will be asked to review

a packed agenda, with items ranging from committee reports and planning matters to the election of the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the

22) and the Standing Orders SubCommittee (April 23), as well as a review of the council’s insurance, financial regulations, and standing orders.

Financial accountability is a major theme of the meeting, with members set to review the Statement and Schedule of Accounts for March 2025 and a summary of expenditure covering April 2024 to March 2025. Applications for financial assistance from Milford Haven Men’s Shed and Milford Haven Round Table will also be considered.

Two councillors, V. Hammett and M. Woodward, have put their names forward for the role of Deputy Mayor, while the Mayor’s position for the forthcoming year will also be decided.

2025-2026 municipal year.

Current Mayor, Councillor W. Elliott, will chair the session, which includes updates on recent engagements by councillors, feedback from outside body representation, and financial matters relating to the town council’s accounts and expenditure for the past year.

The council will receive and discuss minutes from recent subcommittee meetings, including the Public Events Sub-Committee (April

Later in the agenda, members will vote on whether to move into private session to consider confidential matters, including reports from informal meetings regarding the longterm future of Milford Haven Library. Representatives from Pembrokeshire County Council and the Port of Milford Haven have taken part in these discussions.

As per legislation under the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021, remote access will be made available to members of the public upon request.

The Herald will be following the outcomes of the meeting and providing updates online

Haverfordwest man admits assault after woman withdraws support

A HAvERFORDWEsT man has admitted assaulting a woman following an incident in the town earlier this year.

Kieran Vaughan, aged 37, of Caradoc Place, appeared at Swansea Crown Court charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in connection with an incident on March 8.

While Vaughan denied the more

serious charge, he pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of assault by beating.

Prosecutor Georgia Donohue told the court: “That’s acceptable to the Crown because the complainant has withdrawn her support.”

Judge Geraint Walters adjourned the case for a pre-sentence report. Vaughan will be sentenced on May 15.

Pembrokeshire woman to face trial over crash after alleged cocaine use

A PEMbROkEsHiRE woman is to stand trial accused of crashing an Audi into a wall and failing to stop after allegedly driving under the influence of cocaine.

Ruby Owens, aged 33, of Wayside Close, Simpson Cross, Haverfordwest, was arrested on December 21 following a collision at Prospect Place in Pembroke Dock.

She was later charged with four offences: driving with 22 micrograms of cocaine and 480 micrograms of

benzoylecgonine (a cocaine metabolite) in her system, driving without due care and attention, and failing to stop after an accident.

Owens appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where she denied all four charges.

Her trial is set to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on June 19. She was released on unconditional bail.

MiLFORD HAvEN TOWN

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Disqualified driver caught four times jailed

A DANgEROus driver who caused a woman’s death has been jailed again after he was caught behind the wheel in Ceredigion on four separate occasions – despite being banned from driving for ten years.

Alexander May, aged 36, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week after being spotted driving a dumper truck at various locations across the county.

The court heard that May was disqualified from driving in December

2017 after a jury at Salisbury Crown Court found him guilty of causing death by dangerous driving. During that trial, it was revealed that May’s BMW had ploughed into a nurse who had just finished a shift at Savernake Hospital in Swindon. The woman died at the scene. He was sentenced to six years in prison and banned from driving for ten years.

Despite the lengthy disqualification, CCTV footage showed May driving a dumper truck on four occasions between March 8 and April 21 this year.

He pleaded guilty to four counts of driving while disqualified and four counts of driving without insurance.

“He has no excuse for what he’s done – it was pure stupidity,” said his solicitor, Fenn Richards.

Richards told the court that May, a father-of-five, had moved with his wife from Wiltshire to Devil’s Bridge to give their children access to better education. He said May’s primary concern was whether he would receive an immediate custodial sentence, given his “unique personal circumstances

and caring responsibilities.”

May was sentenced to 24 weeks in custody. A further 18 months was added to his current driving disqualification, meaning he is now banned for an additional 53 months. He was also ordered to pay a £187 surcharge and £85 in costs.

“You were driving a very large vehicle while carrying children in the car, possibly for reward,” said the presiding magistrate. “And possibly this vehicle had been acquired during your disqualification.”

Whisky thief with ‘taste for Jack Daniels’ sentenced again

A PEMbROkEsHiRE man with a known fondness for Jack Daniels has been sentenced after stealing more alcohol from local shops.

Dylan Newton, aged 26, was caught on CCTV taking two bottles of Jack Daniels worth £51 from the Co-op store in Pembroke on December 30.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard this week that Newton was again caught stealing alcohol on April 3— this time two bottles of wine worth £14 from the Bush Hill service station in Pembroke.

Newton, of Colley Court, Monkton, pleaded guilty to both charges of theft.

“When you consider his previous convictions, Jack Daniels seems to be his preferred favourite,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan. “He takes it on a regular basis.”

After reviewing a detailed probation report, magistrates imposed an 18-month community order. Newton must complete ten rehabilitation activity requirement days and a nine-month alcohol treatment programme.

He was also fined £40 and ordered to pay £170 in costs, a £114 victim surcharge, and £65 in compensation for the stolen alcohol.

Milford Haven man sentenced for brandishing baseball bat

man has been sentenced after admitting to brandishing

Haverfordwest

On April 3, police received a call reporting that a man had been seen on Cherry Tree Close holding what was initially believed to be a sledgehammer. When officers arrived, Hunt informed them the weapon was in fact a baseball bat.

“The officers said the defendant had been having ongoing issues with males riding electric bikes around the estate,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told the court. “So on April 3, he went out with his baseball bat to tell them to get off their bikes.”

The account was supported by Hunt’s solicitor, Fenn Richards, who said her client was on his way home from a 12-hour shift when he was nearly knocked over by one of the bikers.

“He’d seen the supply of drugs on the estate where he lives and believed the individual on the bike was linked to this anti-social behaviour,” she said.

“The defendant has become very concerned about the drug activity and acted on impulse. He intended to damage the bike, not harm the individual.”

Richards added that Hunt now regrets his actions.

“He realises that matters could have escalated that day,” she said. “But he maintains that the individual’s behaviour was morally wrong and posed a risk to the public.”

Hunt, of Larch Road, Milford Haven, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He was handed an 18-month community order, including 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 80 hours of unpaid work.

He must also pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 in costs. A forfeiture and destruction order was issued for the baseball bat.

Teen driver banned after drink-drive incident in Milford Haven

A 19-yEAR-OLD motorist has been banned from driving after admitting to being over the legal drink-drive limit while behind the wheel in Milford Haven town centre.

Police were called to Hamilton Terrace in the early hours of April 5, following a 999 call from a concerned member of the public. On arrival, officers found Chanel Balmont in the

driver’s seat of a Fiat 500.

“The car had pulled over, and one passenger inside the vehicle appeared to have an injury,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“When the defendant was asked if she’d been drinking, she said she wasn’t going to lie and had no intention of denying anything.”

A roadside breath test revealed Balmont, of Waterloo Road, Hakin, had 52 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

She pleaded guilty to drink-driving and was represented in court by solicitor Fenn Richards.

“She had gone out with her friends, and their intention was to get a taxi home,” said Ms Richards. “They called

one, but due to her partner’s level of intoxication, they were refused. To make it easier to get home, the defendant decided to drive. She simply wanted her partner to get home safely. She knows it was a mistake.”

Magistrates disqualified Balmont from driving for 12 months. She was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £48 court surcharge.

A PEMbROkEsHiRE

a baseball bat at a person he suspected of drug dealing in his neighbourhood.

Magistrates’ Court heard this week that James Hunt, 39, had become increasingly concerned about alleged drug-related activity on the Mount Estate in Milford Haven.

Withyhedge incident team disbanded as complaints fall

THE MuLTi-AgENCy group set up to deal with ongoing issues at Withyhedge landfill has now been stood down.

The Incident Management Team (IMT), made up of Natural Resources Wales (NRW), Pembrokeshire County Council, Public Health Wales, and Hywel Dda University Health Board, was formed earlier this year to coordinate the response to widespread

complaints about odours and gas from the site near Haverfordwest.

The landfill had temporarily closed in May 2023 before reopening in January 2024, after NRW confirmed that necessary compliance measures were in place.

Now, with reports of odour

Groundworker banned for three years

A HEAvy drinking session has resulted in a three-year driving ban for skilled groundworker Darren sullivan, after he was found behind the wheel with more than twice the legal limit of a cocaine breakdown product in his system.

Sullivan, aged 35, was stopped by officers on October 11 while driving on the A44 near Llandysul. A roadside drugs test returned a positive result, and subsequent blood analysis at the police custody suite revealed 172 micrograms of benzoylecgonine per litre of blood. The legal limit is 50.

This week, Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court that the incident marked Sullivan’s second drug-driving conviction in a decade, following a

significantly reduced and pollution levels staying below World Health Organisation (WHO) thresholds, NRW has confirmed that the IMT is no longer required.

In line with the improved conditions, a dedicated reporting system for odour and gas complaints has also been wound down. However, residents can still raise concerns through NRW’s standard incident reporting process, either online or by calling 0300 065 3000.

Independent monitoring of air quality will continue for at least another year, funded by site operators RML. Pembrokeshire County Council will continue to review this data to ensure accuracy and public transparency.

The static air quality monitor installed at Spittal School will remain in place until April 2026, with weekly results still shared with the council. However, Public Health Wales has said it will no longer routinely review the data.

Between January and March, the monitor recorded hydrogen sulphide levels above WHO’s odour

annoyance limit on 13 occasions—all on a single day. No further breaches were recorded in the following seven weeks. Other monitoring in the area has not found any exceedances of either short-term or long-term hydrogen sulphide guidelines.

Public Health Wales said: “We are reassured that the air quality data does not suggest an ongoing risk to public health. With complaints now significantly reduced, we will no longer review the data regularly.”

NRW said it will continue unannounced inspections at the landfill to ensure the site remains compliant with its environmental permit. Its investigation into previous breaches is still ongoing.

The site operator, RML, has applied to vary the conditions of its permit, and NRW has confirmed that a public consultation will be held before any decision is made.

All agencies involved in the former incident response group said they will continue to share relevant updates with one another where necessary.

Toothache remedy leads to driving ban

A MiLFORD HAvEN motorist who attempted to ease a painful toothache by drinking alcohol has been banned from driving for 17 months after he was caught almost twice over the legal limit.

Shane Barker, 36, was stopped by police at 8:15am on April 5 while driving a Ford C-Max along Freemans Way in Haverfordwest. A roadside breath test revealed he had 62 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Barker, of Turnberry Close, Hubberston, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this

week, where he pleaded guilty to drinkdriving.

“He’d been suffering from severe toothache that had kept him awake during the night,” his solicitor, Fenn Richards, told the court. “He took painkillers, but they didn’t help, so he drank alcohol in an attempt to relieve the pain. That morning, a friend called asking for help with a job, and he drove, unaware he was still over the limit.”

As well as being disqualified from driving for 17 months, Barker was fined £350. He was also ordered to pay a £114 victim surcharge and £85 in court costs.

St Davids man accused of abuse and coercive control

similar offence in 2017.

“He finished work on the Thursday, had food and drink, but doesn’t remember consuming the cocaine,” said his solicitor, Fenn Richards.

“He went to work early the following morning and was stopped on his way home. He’d consumed a large amount of alcohol but doesn’t recall taking the drug.”

Richards added that Sullivan, of Cilsaig Road, Dafen, Llanelli, is now at risk of losing his job as a skilled groundsman due to the conviction.

Magistrates disqualified Sullivan from driving for 36 months. He was also fined £600 and ordered to pay a £240 court surcharge and £85 in prosecution costs.

A MAN from st Davids is facing serious allegations of domestic abuse, including physical assault and coercive control, spanning more than two years.

Ryan Bowen, aged 44, of Nun Street, appeared in court accused of controlling and abusive behaviour towards his partner between August 2019 and January 2022.

Bowen is alleged to have physically assaulted the woman by slamming a car door on her leg, punching her in the ribs, and pushing her. The court also heard he verbally abused her, belittled her as a mother, and threatened to kill her.

It is further alleged he controlled

her finances, dictated what she wore, where she could sleep, and where she was allowed to work.

Prosecutors also claimed he threatened to take her children away and told her he would kill himself if she ever left him.

Bowen has denied the charges. Judge Paul Thomas KC asked defence barrister Dyfed Thomas whether his client would consider pleading guilty to any lesser charges. Mr Thomas responded that Bowen was “adamant” the allegations were untrue and would not be changing his plea. A trial has been listed for December 9. Bowen was granted bail until that date.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Drugs, deaths and drones: Damning report highlights crisis at Parc Prison

A DAMNiNg inspection report into one of the uk’s largest prisons has revealed a shocking collapse in standards at HMP Parc in bridgend, where widespread drug use, soaring violence, and 17 inmate deaths defined a year of crisis.

The prison is the nearest long term jail to Pembrokeshire with hundreds of inmates there from our local area.

The unannounced inspection in January 2025 uncovered nearly 900 incidents of drug finds in 2024 alone, with half of prisoners saying it was easy to get drugs inside. On the prison’s A and B wings, 70% of inmates said drugs were easy to obtain, and 34% admitted developing a drug or alcohol problem after arriving.

The prison, privately run by G4S, was once hailed as a flagship establishment. But the report by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons lays bare the reality of a facility overwhelmed by addiction, violence, and staff turnover, all following a change in management contract and the departure of the respected long-time governor Janet Wallsgrove.

“The prison had become far too violent,” the report states, with a 60% rise in recorded self-harm since the last inspection. Between February and May 2024 alone, eight inmates died from suspected drug-related causes, many linked to synthetic opioids like nitazenes.

sHOCkiNg FiNDiNgs

• 894 drug finds in a year—more than any other similar prison

• 17 inmate deaths in 2024, including multiple overdoses

• 30% of all drug tests were positive

the day. Even those motivated to work or learn were trapped by delays in allocation.

• Up to 21 hours a day in cells for many prisoners

• Self-harm incidents up 60% since 2022

• 41% of inmates reported being bullied by other prisoners

Inspectors found that many prisoners were left idle, with poor access to work, education or training. Nearly a fifth were unemployed and locked up for most of

“The regime was inconsistent and left many inmates bored, frustrated and hungry,” the report adds. Food was deemed inadequate by the majority of prisoners, with meagre portions and little fresh produce. The prison shop lacked healthy options, and fruit and vegetables were scarce.

LEADERsHiP TuRMOiL AND DRONE DELivERiEs

After Wallsgrove’s departure in 2023, her replacement lasted less than a year. The management vacuum coincided with a new contract awarded to G4S, a transition that “destabilised the prison” and saw violence and drug use spiral.

Despite an impressive effort from security teams—who intercepted 894 drugs packages—illicit substances continued to pour in. Parc became a prime example of drone-facilitated trafficking, with deliveries often targeting vulnerable windows in cells.

The prison had no enhanced gate security for staff, and the rollout of secure windows was still ongoing at the time of the inspection. Drug-detection tech developed with Bath University was one of the few bright spots, but inspectors said it was not enough to stem the tide.

The disciplinary system was also in disarray. In 2024, over 5,000 adjudications were recorded, a quarter of which were abandoned or delayed. There were also over 800 incidents involving use of force by staff, yet bodycam footage was only available in 54% of cases.

HOPE uNDER NEW LEADERsHiP

There were signs of hope. Since new director Will Styles took over in June 2024, no further drug-related or self-inflicted deaths had occurred. Staff morale, recruitment and retention were improving.

Styles introduced a two-year recovery plan and stabilised the leadership team. Inspectors praised his honest selfassessment and noted the beginnings of

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G4S who run Parc Prison said: ‘We’re making progress’

a cultural shift. Enhanced collaboration with the education provider and initiatives like ‘Parc Tank’ (a business incubator for inmates) were flagged as positive steps.

MENTAL HEALTH AND HEALTHCARE FAiLuREs

Healthcare services, transferred from G4S to NHS Wales in 2023, were still under-resourced. Dental care was so limited that routine treatments were unavailable, with prisoners encouraged

to report pain just to get seen. Mental health services were swamped, and one inmate had waited over two months for a hospital transfer.

The report highlighted 1,962 self-harm incidents in the previous 12 months, and found the mental health referral process overly complex and underperforming. Over 500 prisoners had been referred to the mental health team in the past three months alone.

RECOMMENDATiONs AND PATH

AHEAD

Inspectors issued 14 key concerns— eight of them requiring urgent action. These include high violence, poor mental health provision, weak offender management, inadequate food, and lack of work or training opportunities.

Despite G4S’s claims of “solid progress,” the inspectorate made it clear that major reforms are still needed. If the current director remains and receives the backing he needs, the report says Parc

“may begin to recover.”

A spokesperson for G4S said: “We are encouraged that HMIP recognises that we are making progress. We are determined to ensure the men in our care are safe, supported and can feel optimistic about their futures.”

But with more than 1,700 men inside and nearly 900 drug finds in a single year, the question remains: how did one of Britain’s most successful prisons fall so far, so fast?

Parc prison: Inmates told to throw away drugs after jail deaths (Image: BBC)

There was unrest in the prison in 2024 following deaths of prisoners at the jail (Image: Herald)

Warning after suspected drug-related incidents in Haverfordwest

MuLTiPLE sources are reporting that several people have been taken ill after taking suspected recreational drugs in the Haverfordwest area over the Easter weekend (Friday, April 18 – sunday, April 20).

Emergency services were called to a number of incidents, with individuals believed to have been hospitalised after becoming seriously unwell.

There are growing concerns that a dangerous batch of drugs, possibly laced with an unknown or highly toxic substance, may be circulating locally.

One man is believed to have died following a suspected drug-related incident, although this has not yet been confirmed by the police.

A concerned resident told The Herald: “It’s awful. People are talking about a bad batch of pills doing the rounds – People need to be really careful.”

PubLiC HEALTH WARNiNg

Anyone who has taken drugs in the area over the weekend and feels unwell is urged to seek immediate medical assistance. Even a single tablet or dose of an unknown substance can be fatal, especially if it contains powerful synthetic opioids such as pentynyl or fentanyl, which are often undetectable until it is too late.

Parents and carers are encouraged to speak openly with young people about the dangers of recreational drugs. The Talk to Frank website (www. talktofrank.com) offers accessible and up-to-date information about a wide range of substances, their risks, and how to seek help.

WHAT TO DO iN AN EMERgENCy:

If someone becomes unwell after taking drugs — especially if they collapse, have trouble breathing, or lose consciousness — call 999 immediately.

Stay with them, try to keep them awake, and place them in the recovery position if they are unconscious.

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

Do not be afraid to tell medical professionals or paramedics what has been taken. This information could save a life and will not lead to criminal charges for those seeking help.

gENERAL ADviCE:

Avoid taking drugs alone — there is no one to help you if something goes wrong.

Don’t mix substances — combining drugs or alcohol increases the risk of overdose.

Be wary of pills or powders that are sold as MDMA or ecstasy but may contain far more dangerous substances such as synthetic opioids.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, support is available locally through Dyfed Drug

Dock woman admits assaulting police officers on Easter Sunday

A 25-yEAR-OLD woman from Pembroke Dock has admitted assaulting two police officers after being arrested for being drunk and disorderly over the Easter weekend.

Elisha Callen, of Glenview Avenue, was arrested on Easter Sunday after police found her heavily intoxicated in Milford Haven.

While in custody at Haverfordwest police station, she assaulted two emergency workers.

“She bent one of the officer’s fingers back, and spat in the face of the other,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan, during a hearing at Haverfordwest

Magistrates’ Court this week.

Callen pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly in a public place and to two counts of assaulting an emergency worker by beating.

Magistrates adjourned sentencing for four weeks following a request from the probation service, in order for a detailed psychiatric report to be prepared.

Callen was released on conditional bail. She must not be found drunk in a public place before sentencing and must cooperate fully with the probation service.

She will be sentenced on May 20.

and Alcohol Service (DDAS) and other charities.

CONTACT iNFORMATiON:

DDAS: 03303 639997 or visit www. ddas.org.uk

Talk to Frank: 0300 123 6600 or text 82111

Crimestoppers (anonymous tip line): 0800 555 111

The Herald will continue to follow this developing story and publish official updates as soon as they are available.

Reform candidate co-opted to town council — graffiti appears days later

A MAN who recently lost a byelection standing for the Reform uk party has been co-opted onto Haverfordwest Town Council — just two days before political graffiti appeared at Withybush Retail Park.

Scott Thorley, who stood for Reform UK in the Prendergast by-election earlier this year, was appointed to Haverfordwest Town Council during a co-option meeting on Thursday (Apr 17).

Mr Thorley came fourth in a closely fought six-way contest for a seat on Pembrokeshire County Council, securing 71 votes. The by-election, held on Tuesday, February 11, was triggered by the resignation of former

Conservative councillor Andrew Edwards, who stepped down following widespread backlash over racist comments attributed to him.

Independent candidate Alun Wills ultimately won the seat with 199 votes (31.6%), ahead of Kaleb Jenkins (Welsh Liberal Democrats, 160), Mike Mathias (Welsh Conservative, 136), Scott Thorley (Reform UK, 71), Alison Tudor (Welsh Labour, 57), and James Henry Purchase (Wales Green Party, 8).

write — maybe it’s someone older. But whoever it was, this was not done by Reform. It does not help us — it’s embarrassing.”

Mr Thorley also noted the timing of the incident, saying: “It’s a bit fishy this happened less than two days after I was accepted onto the town council.”

Haverfordwest county councillor Thomas Baden Tudor told The Herald: “Damage to public or private property is completely unacceptable, and if anyone has any information on who carried out this act of vandalism, please contact Crimestoppers anonymously — online at crimestoppers-uk.org or by phone on 0800 555 111.

But on Saturday morning (Apr 19), just two days after Mr Thorley’s cooption, residents and shoppers were greeted with a string of large political slogans sprayed across walls and walkways at Withybush Retail Park. Messages included: “KEIR STARMER OUT, REFORM IN! GOD SAVE US” and a separate large slogan reading: “VOTE REFORM” — all daubed in white capital letters.

The incident has since been reported to Dyfed-Powys Police.

Speaking to The Pembrokeshire Herald, new town councillor Scott Thorley said: “Whoever has done this, it is vandalism plain and simple.”

Mr Thorley, who works at the retail park himself, said he did not notice the graffiti when arriving at work and was only made aware after a colleague sent him photos by phone.

He added: “The phrase ‘God Save Us’ doesn’t really sound like something a younger person would

“They’ll ask questions about the crime but won’t ask about you.

“Antisocial behaviour is not tolerated or acceptable in Haverfordwest.”

He added: “Alternatively, anyone with information can also call DyfedPowys Police on 101.

The Pembrokeshire Herald contacted new county councillor Alun Wills by telephone for a comment. He said: “I have not seen the graffiti yet, I have just come back from work.” Cllr Wills said he had seen a media post about the incident, believed to be on The Herald’s Facebook page.

At the time of going to press, we are awaiting Cllr Wills to come back to us with a further comment.

The police have been contacted for a statement.

Not happy: Cllr Tom Tudor Awaiting comment: Alun Cllr Willis

Campaign poster: Scott Thorley, Reform candiate

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Motorboat rescued off Newgale beach after capsizing scare

A MOTORbOAT that got into trouble off Newgale beach on Thursday afternoon (Apr 17) was brought safely ashore thanks to the quick response of st Davids RNLi

The alarm was raised at around 3:40pm when HM Coastguard received reports of a 12-foot motorboat with two people onboard that had capsized off the popular Pembrokeshire beach.

St Davids RNLI launched their inshore lifeboat, the Alan and Marian Clayton, and quickly located the stricken vessel.

After assessing the situation, lifeboat volunteers decided to escort

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the motorboat to Porthclais Harbour, as it still had power. However, partway through the journey the vessel ran out of fuel, leaving the crew stranded.

A tow line was set up, and the lifeboat took the boat under tow to ensure the safety of those onboard.

The motorboat was brought ashore safely at Porthclais just before 6:20pm, and the lifeboat returned to station where it was refuelled and made ready for the next callout.

Tragic outcome after dog falls from cliffs

sT DAviDs RNLi inshore lifeboat was launched at 5:50pm on Easter Monday (April 21) following reports of a dog that had fallen from the cliffs at Caerfai bay.

The volunteer crew responded swiftly and located the dog in the sea. Sadly, it had died by the time they arrived. The lifeboat crew recovered the

animal and brought it ashore, reuniting it with its owners at Caerfai beach, who were supported by HM Coastguard – St Davids.

The inshore lifeboat, Marian and Alan Clayton, returned to station at 7:00pm and was refuelled and ready for service again by 7:10pm.

Calls for urgent sale of Oakwood site amid trespasser fears

CONCERNs have been raised about trespassers entering the closed Oakwood theme park, prompting calls for a swift sale of the site.

The once-popular attraction near Narberth has become a hotspot for urban explorers and thrill-seekers, with social media videos emerging of people wandering around the abandoned rides and infrastructure.

Since Oakwood shut its gates last month, following a decision by Spanish owners Aspro Parks to cease operations due to falling visitor numbers, locals have raised concerns about safety and the risk of vandalism.

Sam Kurtz MS, who represents Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, said a speedy sale was now vital to prevent further deterioration and potential criminal activity.

“The longer it remains empty, the greater the risk of problems – from trespassing to the site falling into disrepair,” said Mr Kurtz. “There’s also a real risk to health and safety if people are entering unsupervised.”

Mr Kurtz called on Aspro to actively work with the Welsh Government, local businesses, and other stakeholders to secure a new future for the site.

“This is a valuable asset,” he said. “There’s been a lot of interest from

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businesses already, and I urge Aspro to engage with us so we can get the ball rolling.”

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed they have received multiple reports of trespassing and possible criminal offences at the site since its closure.

The BBC have reported that Economics expert Professor Calvin Jones, of Cardiff University, was less optimistic about Oakwood’s chances of reopening as a theme park.

“If the existing operator – who’s invested tens of millions – can’t make it viable, it’s unlikely a new operator would be able to,” he said.

Instead, Prof Jones suggested the land might lend itself better to other recreational activities, such as adventure tourism, mountain biking, or zipline attractions, depending on what planning authorities allow.

“Ultimately, the future use of the site will come down to planning permission,” he said. “It may become something entirely different.”

Bluestone National Park Resort, which neighbours Oakwood and employs around 700 people, declined to comment on whether it would consider buying the land. Prof Jones noted that Bluestone has historically expanded cautiously and would likely

only consider purchasing the site if the price was low.

The Welsh Government said that it “continues to engage” with Aspro Parks and recognised the former theme park’s importance to the local economy.

A spokesperson said: “We are hopeful a buyer will come forward to ensure this site can continue contributing to tourism in the area.”

Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed it has not yet held any discussions with Aspro.

Triathlon returns to Fishguard – road closures announced

FisHguARD will once again play host to the Wales Triathlon this summer, with hundreds of competitors set to descend on the town for the popular sporting event on sunday, june 15.

Organised by Activity Wales Events, the triathlon includes a two-lap sea swim in Fishguard Bay, followed by a two-lap cycle from Fishguard to St Davids and a four-lap run along the Marine Walk and out onto the breakwater.

In order to facilitate the bike leg on closed roads, several road closures will be in place throughout the day.

MAjOR ROAD CLOsuREs

The A487 between Goodwick and Mathry will be closed between 9:45am and 3:00pm.

Between Mathry and Croesgoch, the A487 will be closed from 10:00am to 3:00pm, and from Croesgoch to St Davids the closure will run from 10:00am until 2:45pm.

Crossing points will be in operation at Mathry crossroads, Croesgoch crossroads, and the Llangoffan to Granston junction. Diversions will be signposted, with local traffic routed via minor B roads and through Haverfordwest for longer journeys.

TOWN CENTRE iMPACT

In Fishguard, West Street will be closed

between 12:00pm and 6:00pm for the running stage. Residents will still be able to exit side roads, with diversions clearly marked.

Goodwick residents will be able to exit the town via the Tesco roundabout, which will remain open all day.

CARE ACCEss AND COuRsE PAssEs

Care workers will be allowed access to visit clients within the closed sections, but must obtain a course pass via their organisation in advance.

On the day, carers using the route must:

• Follow the direction of the race

• Display their pass clearly

• Keep hazard lights on at all times

• Exit the route as soon as safely possible

FuRTHER iNFORMATiON

The event attracted over 1,000 athletes last year, and organisers anticipate another strong turnout.

More information can be found at: www. walestriathlon.com/athletes/event-info

Road closure details are available at: community.walestriathlon.com

For course pass enquiries, contact: info@activitywalesevents.com

Help to Buy Wales extended – new homes in Haverfordwest

THE WELsH gOvERNMENT has extended the Help to buy –Wales scheme until september 2026, offering new opportunities for buyers to secure a property at the Augustus grange development in Haverfordwest with financial assistance.

The scheme enables eligible buyers to purchase a new-build home valued up to £300,000 with just a five per cent deposit. The remaining amount is covered by a 75 per cent mortgage and a 20 per cent shared equity loan, which is interest-free for the first five years.

Five-star housebuilder Lovell Homes, which is delivering the development in partnership with Pobl Group, is encouraging potential buyers to explore the scheme’s benefits. Located off St David’s Road, Augustus Grange comprises 115 two and threebedroom homes and lies just six

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miles from the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Unlike some support schemes, Help to Buy – Wales is open not only to first-time buyers but also to existing homeowners looking to move.

A number of three-bedroom properties are currently available at the site, including the popular Lambourne and Lansdown designs.

Suzie Hewitt, regional sales director at Lovell Homes, said: “Help to Buy –Wales is a brilliant initiative and we’re delighted that it has been extended to 2026. For many, buying a home is the biggest financial step they’ll take, and this scheme makes that step more accessible.

“We’re offering a range of highquality homes under £300,000 at

Augustus Grange – perfect for first-time buyers, growing families, and those looking to rightsize. We encourage anyone interested to contact our sales team.”

Haverfordwest, the historic county town of Pembrokeshire, offers a mix of heritage and modern amenities. With its 12th-century castle, riverside walks along the Western Cleddau, a selection of shops and restaurants, and good transport links, it’s an attractive location for both families and commuters.

The Augustus Grange marketing suite is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. For further information, visit newhomes.lovell.co.uk/developments/ augustus-grange-haverfordwest or call 01437 468024.

Terms and conditions apply. Full details on the Help to Buy – Wales scheme can be found at lovell.co.uk/ offers/help-to-buy-wales.

Lovell Homes recently received a Gold award for customer service from In-house Research, with 93.6 per cent of South Wales and West customers saying they would recommend the company to friends and family.

Ginkgo tree planted in Pembroke Dock rekindles historic link with Japan

A sMALL tree with a remarkable legacy has been planted at the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre, strengthening a unique 138-year connection between the town and Japan.

The sapling, a descendant of the ancient Ginkgo tree that towers above the Royal Dockyard, now stands proudly in the grounds of the former Dockyard Chapel, which houses the Heritage Centre.

At a ceremony on Thursday (Apr 17), the sapling was planted by Mr Masaki Ikegami, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of Japan to the United Kingdom. He was joined by Captain Shuzo Homma, Naval Attaché at the Japanese Embassy, and welcomed by invited guests, trustees of the Pembroke Dock Heritage Trust, and centre volunteers.

The original Ginkgo tree grows in the garden of the historic Master Shipwright’s House nearby. It was presented to the town in 1877 to commemorate the launch of the Armoured Corvette Hiei— one of the Imperial Japanese Navy’s first modern warships, built at a private yard at Jacob’s Pill, Pennar, and modelled on British naval designs. Its launch was a major event, attended by the Japanese Ambassador to the UK at the time.

In recent years, saplings from the original tree have been propagated at the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Some have been returned to Japan, where they now grow at naval bases and at a shrine honouring Admiral Heihachiro Togo. As a young lieutenant, Togo lived in Pembroke Dock during the construction of Hiei.

Guests were welcomed by Heritage Trust Patron John Evans and Chairman Rik Saldanha. Attendees included the Deputy Lieutenant of Dyfed, Professor Patricia Mawuli Porter; Chairman of Pembrokeshire County

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Council, Councillor Steve Alderman; Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Councillor Maria Williams; Senedd Member Sam Kurtz; Ayshea Cunniffe-Thomas of the National Botanic Garden of Wales; and Simon Richards, who shared fascinating insights into the Ginkgo tree—one of the oldest species on Earth, dating back to the age of dinosaurs.

Also present was Mrs Margaret James, widow of the late maritime historian David James, whose extensive research documented the naval ties between Japan and Pembroke Dock. She was accompanied by her son, Adrian.

A poignant connection to Japan was represented by Mrs Yoriko Omae, originally from Hiroshima, who assisted David James in commemorating Japanese sailors buried in Pembrokeshire and recently retired from her role at Pembroke Dock Library. Following the planting ceremony,

guests were invited to the Master Shipwright’s House by owners Stewart and Angela Walton to view the original Ginkgo tree.

Tom

Mr Masaki Ikegami and Captain Shuzo Homma from the Japanese Embassy pictured by the Ginkgo tree in the grounds of the Master Shipwright’s House with the owner, Mr Stewart Walton (left), and Rik Saldanha and John Evans of the Pembroke Dock Heritage Trust. (Picture: Martin Cavaney Photography)

Dwr Cymru loses 251 million litres each day due to leaks

WELsH Liberal Democrats have criticised Dŵr Cymru and Hafren Dyfrdwy after new figures revealed widespread water wastage due to leaking infrastructure, with Dŵr Cymru alone losing an average of 251 million litres every day.

Research from the House of Commons Library, commissioned by the Liberal Democrats, shows that between 2020/21 and 2022/23, an average of 3 billion litres of water were lost daily across England and Wales — the equivalent of 1,200 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Dŵr Cymru was the worst offender, leaking 171 litres per property per day — the highest in England and Wales. Hafren Dyfrdwy, which supplies Montgomeryshire, Wrexham, and parts of Radnorshire, ranked second worst, leaking 154 litres per property per day, or 16.4 million litres in total.

The Liberal Democrats estimate the annual cost of water leakage to customers at around £396 million.

Despite Dŵr Cymru’s not-forprofit model, the party has long raised concerns over executive pay, environmental failings, and high household bills. Water bills in Wales remain the highest in the UK, despite some of the lowest household incomes. Hafren Dyfrdwy bills are set to rise by 32% in 2025, with average charges increasing from £447 to £590.

Apology and acknowledgement of misreporting

In March 2024, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water issued a public apology after it was found to have misreported leakage and per capita consumption figures over a number of years. An Ofwat investigation concluded that the company significantly understated the

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extent of its water losses, prompting accusations of misleading customers and regulators.

The company admitted to failures in governance and management oversight and agreed to a redress package worth £39.4 million, including a £10 rebate for every customer.

Chief Executive Pete Perry said: “We are very sorry that this happened. We proactively brought this issue to Ofwat’s attention… Our review identified governance and management oversight failures that led to the issues identified which have now been addressed. Achieving the planned reduction in leakage will be challenging, but we have committed a substantial increase in expenditure in this area and strengthened the relevant operational teams to recover performance.”

Welsh Water also pledged to invest an additional £59 million during the current 2020–25 price review period to tackle leakage and reduce consumption.

Ofwat Chief Executive David Black condemned the misreporting: “For five years, Welsh Water misled customers and regulators on its record of tackling leakage and saving water. It is simply indefensible, and that is why we are making Welsh Water pay this £40 million to benefit its customers.”

The findings sparked renewed criticism from campaigners and politicians alike, who say the apology and investment commitments are long overdue and insufficient given the environmental damage and costs to

consumers.

Welsh Liberal Democrats are now calling for the abolition of Ofwat, arguing that the regulator has failed to hold water companies properly to account. They propose the creation of a new, more powerful watchdog.

Their demands include:

• A single social water tariff to protect vulnerable customers

• A ban on executive bonuses at failing water companies

• stronger environmental oversight from the Welsh government, particularly regarding Dŵr Cymru

David Chadwick, Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, said: “It’s scandalous that Dŵr Cymru is wasting millions of litres of water every year, while customers are saddled with sky-high bills. The government cannot sit idly by as water companies exploit the system.

“Ofwat must be replaced with a regulator that will hold these polluters to account. The Liberal Democrats will continue to stand up for customers who have been taken for granted for far too long.”

Glyn Preston, Senedd candidate for Gwynedd Maldwyn and Llanidloes County Councillor, added: “Communities across Gwynedd and Montgomeryshire are being failed by a system that rewards mismanagement and punishes ordinary people.

“When companies like Hafren Dyfrdwy waste millions of litres daily, it’s

not only an environmental catastrophe but a betrayal of public trust.

“We need urgent reform to fix our broken water system, protect the environment, and ensure no one is forced to pay through the nose for such poor service.”

Despite recent commitments, campaigners argue that water companies in Wales continue to fall short on both environmental and consumer expectations. Critics say tougher regulation and greater transparency are essential to restore public confidence.

A Welsh Water spokesperson said: “Our performance on leakage when measured per property isn’t a true reflection of the overall situation, due to the sparse population we serve in rural areas and the length of our pipe network.

“Welsh Water is close to the industry average when measured on leakage per kilometre of pipe and this remains a more relevant comparison.

“However, leakage performance is not where we want it to be and we have invested an additional £54m over the past two years above what was planned to identify and reduce leakage as quickly as possible to improve our performance further.

“This has meant that we have made significant improvements in performance, and we expect this to be evident in our figures for 2024/25 that will be released in a few weeks’ time.

“Our aim is to continue this improvement over the next five years where we will reduce leakage by a further 25% with considerable investment planned in pipe replacement and leakage repairs.”

POLiTiCAL PREssuRE MOuNTiNg

Tom

Wales illegal vape hotspots revealed as over 30,000 devices seized in 2024

NEW data has revealed the Welsh hotspots for illegal vape sales, with over 30,000 illicit and unregulated products seized in 2024 – the equivalent of one every 20 minutes.

The worst-affected area was Newport, where Newport City Council confiscated more than 21,000 illegal vapes last year – an increase of 173% compared to 2023. The city accounted for a third of all illegal vape seizures in Wales. Over the past three years, 49 premises closure orders have been issued in the area.

Flintshire recorded the second highest number of seizures, with 4,545 illicit vapes removed from sale – up 170% on the previous year.

The findings come from a Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted to 108 local authorities by Vape Club, and are published in the 2025 Illegal Vapes Report. The research lays bare the scale of the UK’s growing illegal vape market.

Wales’ top five illegal vape hotspots in 2024

• Newport City Council: 21,169 devices seized

• Flintshire County Council: 4,545 devices seized

• Carmarthenshire County Council: 1,850 devices seized

• gwynedd Council: 721 devices seized

• blaenau gwent County borough Council: 607 devices seized

Despite 82 recorded instances of illegal vape sales in Wales last year, only five penalties were issued. Closure orders were served to just ten retailers – representing only 12% of reported cases. The figures have prompted growing concern over inadequate enforcement.

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Across the UK, 1.2 million illegal vapes were seized in 2024 – a 44% increase from the previous year. That equates to two illegal vapes seized every minute.

Industry experts are calling for the introduction of a Vape Retailer and Distributor Licensing Scheme to help tackle the issue. Without stricter controls and additional resources for

enforcement, they warn the illegal trade could surge – especially following the UK Government’s planned ban on disposable vapes this June.

Dan Marchant, Director at Vape Club, said:

“The real issue of illicit vape sales lies in the inadequate enforcement of current regulations and the weak penalties for offenders. With the disposable vape ban coming into force, we risk a flood of dangerous, unregulated products entering the UK, all because the core issue has not

been addressed.

“This boils down to lacklustre fines and no structured funding for Trading Standards. That’s why we strongly support a robust retail and distribution licensing scheme, with revenues ringfenced for proactive enforcement.

“This funding could give Border Force the resources to stop more illegal products at the border, and allow Trading Standards to crack down on rogue retailers and impose meaningful penalties.”

Controversial £40m Newgale road plan faces local backlash

REsiDENTs and campaigners in Newgale have raised strong objections to Pembrokeshire County Council’s proposed £40 million road scheme, which would see a new inland route cut through the brandy brook valley.

The Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project—led by the council in partnership with consultants AtkinsRéalis—aims to address growing concerns over the future of the A487, which runs along the flood-prone coastline. Repeated storm damage, rising sea levels, and more extreme weather have prompted officials to deem the current route unsustainable.

The proposed development includes:

• Construction of a new 2.5km inland section of the A487, including a bridge over brandy

brook

• Creation of a traffic-free shareduse path to replace a portion of the Wales Coast Path

• Reclassification of Newgale Hill and Wood Hill with traffic management changes

• improved bus stop facilities and turning areas for better public transport access

• A temporary access road (in place for up to ten years) to serve beachfront businesses

Campaigners from STUN (Save The Unique Newgale) have voiced strong opposition, claiming the current proposal would harm the valley’s natural landscape and wildlife. They argue that more cost-effective, sustainable alternatives have not been properly considered.

Jackie Gilderdale, a long-time visitor to Newgale, told The Herald: “Newgale is the beach generations of my family have grown up on. Now it’s at risk—from constant flooding, new roads, and an array of huge radars. £2 million has already been spent just on consultants. This is a pivotal moment—

let’s make sure it’s done right.”

The statutory pre-application consultation is now open, giving the public a chance to comment on the scheme before final plans are submitted. The deadline for responses is 11th May 2025.

Mum’s plea for Pembrokeshire sanctuary memorial approved

A WEsT WALEs mother’s poignant call for a permanent Pembrokeshire memorial – and sanctuary – in memory of her late daughter has been backed by county planners.

In an application before Pembrokeshire County Council, Emma Thomas, of Ammanford,

sought permission for the extension of a forestry track to enable the planting of woodland along with a memorial pond to her late daughter Mia Haf Sahara Thomas Jones at a field off Brynheulog, near Llangolman.

A personal statement by Emma accompanying the application said: “My name is Emma Thomas, and I am setting up the Mia Sahara Sanctuary in memory of my beautiful daughter, Mia, who tragically and unexpectedly passed away at the young age of 16, on April 19, 2023.

“Mia was a very passionate young lady, and throughout her life enjoyed being in the natural environment absorbing everything it had to offer.

“As Mia’s mother, I must do something positive out of something so, so negative.

“As Mia was to inherit a property on her 18th birthday, as a family, we have decided to purchase land out of the proceeds from the sale. The land is approximately 6.3 acres and lies on the western edge of Llangolman, Pembrokeshire.”

She added: “My aim is to develop the land by placing a wildlife pond to provide a breeding space for frogs, toads, newts and dragonflies as well as a habitat for a host of other creatures from pond skaters to water snails. The pond will be shallow at one end and will provide areas for birds and a watering hole for hedgehogs.”

Emma said produce grown in existing polytunnels “will be given and shared amongst local charities to support the local population and hopefully a local educational establishment with healthy eating seasonal produce”.

Emma went on to say: “I worked within education before Mia’s health deteriorated at numerous educational establishments internationally. I have a learnt understanding of the issues faced by individuals that live within Pembrokeshire as a single parent

caring for a child with needs.

“There is a need for support for so many individuals and a lack of funding and resources can have detrimental consequences.

“In December 2022 Mia and I decided to set up a charity and Mia wrote her introduction to the Forum in advance.”

Mia, in her own words, explained her reasons for the charity: “I have struggled throughout my life with various of different things… At the age of just 16, I got an official diagnosis as being Autistic. But that is why we are here to help each other and to thrive with each other with that help/ support! I have also struggled with making/maintaining friendships and hopefully with setting up this forum I could make new friends!

“Also make changes for the better. Use this charity for a network of people as a safety net to help and inform each other with information that you and others may need…”.

Emma concluded: “I envisage the Mia Sahara Sanctuary to be a place where nature will flourish with new life. I will meet with representatives from the community and local groups to determine what produce would best support their service users with the aim of working collaboratively for the benefit of the local people.

“Mia is no longer here physically however my love for her fuels me to plan the Mia Sahara Sanctuary and to create something that will benefit future generations within Pembrokeshire, and I have the determination and passion, with your support, to make this a reality.”

The application was conditionally approved by county planners.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Fishguard natural burial site plans refused by planners

A CALL to extend a Pembrokeshire cemetery to provide a space for ecofriendly natural burials has been refused by county planners.

A natural burial is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial, burying a body in the ground without a coffin or headstone.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, the Trustees of Tabernacle Chapel sought permission for a change of use of agricultural land to extend the existing Tabernacle Cemetery, Fishguard to include a natural burial site.

A supporting statement, through agent Gethin Beynon, said the land has been in the cemetery ownership since 1945, adding: “Based on the

development forming a similar use to the adjacent cemetery and being in the same ownership as the Trustees of Tabernacle Chapel, the proposal would be classed as an extension to an existing community facility.

“As the development is not proposing any engineering or physical features with the natural habitat being retained, it is considered the change of use of the land would be in keeping in an area where other cemeteries exist to the north, east and west of the application site.”

It added: “With regard to the operation of the burial ground, when a

burial takes place, a plot is allocated, and the turf cut and set aside. The topsoil and subsoil are then heaped alongside the grave. The graves would be dug to the appropriate depth to earth over the coffin to protect it whilst allowing the body to recycle in the active/living layer of the soil.

“After a burial, soil is returned in compacted layers around and on top of the coffin, with topsoil and turf on top. Grave locations are plotted and recorded on plan. It is intended that such administration and management duties of the site would be undertaken by the applicants.

“Due to the development not resulting in marked graves and there being no maintenance requirements from

mourners, visits and any associated vehicle movements would be of a low intensity and infrequent.”

The application was supported by Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council, subject to satisfactory outcomes of an archaeological survey in relation to nearby Castell Mwrtach, an Iron Age defended enclosure and possible associated earthworks, along with discussions with the south Wales Trunk Road Agency.

An officer report, recommending refusal, said Natural Resources Wales (NRW) had raised concerns “that cemeteries have the potential to cause pollution to controlled waters, with the level of risk dependent on many factors and to fully assess potential impact of each site an initial Tier 1 assessment which shall define potential pathways and receptors in proximity of the site,” adding: “No such risk assessment has been submitted in support of this application resulting in a development that does not adequately confirm the level of risk to controlled waters the development poses.”

Archaeological advisors Heneb has said a geophysics survey of the site is needed to determine any effect on adjacent to Castell Mwrtach.

“As a geophysics survey has not been submitted in support of the application, it cannot be demonstrated that the development would have an acceptable impact on the historic environment in conflict [with policy].”

The scheme was refused by planning officers on the grounds of the concerns raised.

Paul Sartori Foundation hosts events for Dying Matters Week 2025

THE PAuL sARTORi FOuNDATiON, Pembrokeshire’s hospice at home charity, will host a series of community events during Dying Matters Week 2025 to encourage open conversations around death, dying and bereavement.

The week begins with a community concert at St Mary’s Church, Haverfordwest, on Monday (May 5) at 1:00pm. The event will feature performances by the Paul Sartori Community Choir and aims to highlight the importance of discussing end-of-life matters through the power of music.

On Thursday (May 8), an Information and Activities Day will take place at The Third Place, Milford Haven, from 10:00am to 2:30pm. Organised in partnership with PAVS and Pembrokeshire County Council, the day will offer access to resources, expert advice and informal discussions on end-of-life planning. The event also includes a guided walk and craft activities to promote creative expression around themes of loss and preparation.

The week concludes on Friday (May 9) with The Dead Good Quiz at Yr Hen Ysgol in Dinas Cross. A light-hearted but

thought-provoking event, the quiz offers a fun night out with friends while gently encouraging conversations about what many find difficult to discuss.

The events are organised by the Paul Sartori Foundation’s Future Care Planning department. Mandy Jones, a community worker with the project, said: “Having a future care plan in place means that you can take charge of what happens to you should you become seriously unwell and are unable to express your wishes. It also gives guidance to families and helps ease stress at a very difficult time. These community events aim to inform and empower people to have autonomy over their future health and wellbeing.”

The Paul Sartori Foundation was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori and continues to provide hospice care services across Pembrokeshire. The charity’s mission is to promote sustainable, high-quality end-of-life care, enabling people to remain in the comfort of their own homes.

For more details on the events and the work of the Paul Sartori Foundation, visit www.paulsartori.org/events.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Big changes made to major Cosheston solar farm development

AMENDMENTs to a previously granted scheme for a south Pembrokeshire solar farm by using higher specification panels which would actually see less land covered have been approved by county planners.

Last year, plans for a nine-megawatt solar farm at West Farm, Cosheston,

near Pembroke Dock by James Wallwork of One Planet Developments Limited were approved by Pembrokeshire County Council.

The applicants said the scheme would

generate enough power for 2,500 homes. The scheme was initially recommended for refusal before a later recommendation for approval at last March’s planning committee; the scheme supported by Cosheston Community Council, which said the plans would be a natural rounding-off of the site, with no detrimental impact as it would neighbour

the existing solar farm.

A supporting statement, through agent Mango Planning & Development Ltd, said: “The proposed development would contribute circa 9,337,000 KWh of renewable electricity to the local area, which will typically produce enough green electricity a year to power about 2,500 homes.

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

After last year’s approval, the applicants had asked for a change of planning conditions.

A supporting statement accompanying the amendment request says: “Subsequent to the grant of consent, the applicant has been advised that the solar panels originally proposed are no longer available. It is necessary, therefore, to substitute these with an alternative type.”

It says the proposed alternative panels would be slightly larger in size but “as a consequence of the improved specification of the proposed panels, a reduced site coverage is required to achieve the originally agreed output,” adding: “In particular, it is not now necessary to provide arrays in the small field at the east of the application site.”

The proposed amendments have been approved by planning officers.

Permission for new Jeffreyston charcuterie business refused

A sCHEME for a rural Pembrokeshire One Planet Development, which would eventually include a charcuterie business using meats from a rare breed ‘flerd’ and a ‘natural health service’ has been turned down by county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Malcolm and Nichola Blunsden sought permission for the One Planet Development including a three-bed house, polytunnel and a freestanding photovoltaic array at Covert View, some one kilometre from the village of Jeffreyston, near Kilgetty.

A supporting statement through agent Sureline Design Services Ltd said of the applicants: “They have experience of managing this piece of land and are excited to have the opportunity to develop their ideas for an eco-house, rare breed ‘flerd’ [mixture of a flock and herd], a charcuterie business and a ‘natural health service’ that brings local community groups and schools closer to nature.”

Covering a five-year plan, it says the applicants would produce 56 per cent of their own food, with a small vegetable garden and polytunnel as well as a flock of chickens and ducks for eggs and meat, and will also keep geese, sheep, pigs and cattle for meat; the main enterprise on site will sell

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

fresh meat and charcuterie products from the sheep, pigs and cattle.

“In addition to this they will develop a subsidiary enterprise based on community groups and general public visiting the site for educational and therapeutic purposes,” the statement adds.

Detailing the ‘Cleddau Charcuterie’ proposal, it says: “The overall objective is to use traditional rare breeds of Welsh farm animals, raise them in a dynamic ‘flerd’ (mixture of a flock and herd) to create a rich tapestry of diverse meadows in a regenerative ‘mob’ grazed system whilst also building soil carbon.”

It says the meats produced will be slaughtered and butchered locally and then cured in a purpose-built meat curing room, this will be located in one of the existing farm buildings on site.

“Research undertaken by Malcolm suggests a high demand for locally produced fresh meat as well as charcuterie products with known origins and high animal welfare. The nearest producer for charcuterie is currently in Powys.”

An officer report, recommending refusal raised concerns about the

robustness of financial figures and realistic possibility of achieving them, with “almost 90 per cent of the projected income would come from a single source, namely meat products production,” adding: “There is no supporting evidence from local schools or groups for a demand for the services offered. It is considered that there is not sufficient certainty to conclude that a significant proportion of the applicants’

food and income needs would be met on the site within five years”. It also raised concerns about insufficient water resources on the site with a borehole required for drinking water.

The application was refused by planners.

Since the refusal, the application is listed as having an appeal against the decision lodged.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

£10 million investment to support jobs and health in Wales

A MAjOR £10 million boost to employment support in Wales has been announced as part of the uk government’s drive to tackle economic inactivity and “get britain Working” again.

The first trailblazer programme in Wales, launched in Denbighshire on Monday (Apr 21), will roll out new tailored employment support including one-to-one mentoring, counselling, wellbeing services, and health condition management.

The programme was launched jointly by UK Minister for Employment Alison McGovern and Welsh Government Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership Jack Sargeant, marking a shift away from a ‘one size fits all’ approach in favour of support targeted to local needs.

The investment will help people with CV writing, job searching, mental health, and managing health issues that may be holding them back from employment. The trailblazer areas –Denbighshire, Blaenau Gwent, and Neath Port Talbot – were selected for their high levels of economic inactivity and will be among nine areas across the UK to pilot these reforms.

During their visit to Working Denbighshire, both Ministers met Work Coaches and saw first-hand the services being offered under the new scheme.

Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: “Everyone deserves to thrive, including those living with

long-term health conditions.

“No one will be written off. This £10 million investment will help connect health and employment services and deliver real change under our Plan for Change.

“Good work provides both dignity and security, and this trailblazer will help people across Wales access that support.”

Welsh Government Minister Jack Sargeant added:

“This investment is an important step in our joint approach to supporting people back into good employment.

“By integrating health and

employment support, and tailoring it to each community’s needs, we aim to provide truly joined-up services.

“The Welsh Government is committed to ensuring no one is left behind.”

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

“This £10 million trailblazer will deliver support where it’s most needed – in Blaenau Gwent, Denbighshire, and Neath Port Talbot.

“We know this targeted approach works and builds on the success of initiatives like the Young Person’s Guarantee.

“Helping people into work improves physical and mental health and raises living standards.”

The trailblazers are part of the UK Government’s wider £240 million Get Britain Working reforms, which include:

Transforming Jobcentres to focus on skills and careers

Guaranteeing young people the chance to earn or learn

Expanding mental health support to help people stay in work

The Wales trailblazer follows the first scheme launched earlier this month in South Yorkshire, which focuses on supporting employers to hire people with health conditions. Upcoming trailblazers will also launch in Greater Manchester, the North East, York and North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, and three areas in London.

In parallel with the trailblazer initiative, the UK Government has also:

Increased the National Living Wage and Minimum Wage

Introduced the Employment Rights Bill to create more secure jobs

Committed to deeper devolution, supporting local and devolved governments to boost regional growth

The investment into Wales reflects the Prime Minister’s pledge to reset relationships with devolved administrations and empower them to play a leading role in economic growth under the UK’s Plan for Change.

Licence up for grabs to sell ice cream at Newgale Beach

A PRiME seaside trading spot has been made available by Pembrokeshire County Council, offering a unique opportunity for an entrepreneur to operate an ice cream van at the popular Newgale beach.

The council is inviting tenders for a licence to trade from the northern car park at Newgale between 1st March and 31st October each year. Applications must be submitted by 12:00 noon on Wednesday (Apr 30).

Located on the north-west coast of Pembrokeshire, Newgale Beach stretches for over 3 kilometres and is a favourite among surfers, swimmers, and families alike. Sporting events are frequently held on the beach during the summer months, drawing in large crowds and providing a strong footfall for potential ice cream sales.

The designated car parks at Newgale offer 230 spaces and are the closest surface car parks to the beach. Seasonal parking charges

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apply between March and October.

The council is seeking offers over £5,000 plus VAT per annum for the licence. Trading hours are expected to be between 11:00am and 7:00pm daily, although these times can be adjusted with the prior agreement of the Streetcare and Parking Manager.

The successful applicant will be allowed to sell principally ice cream, but soft drinks and confectionery may also be sold subject to approval. The sale of alcohol and hot food will not be permitted.

Interested parties are encouraged to visit the site before submitting their applications. An application form can be requested from the council’s Property Helpdesk. All offers will be considered up until the exchange of contracts, although the council is not obliged to accept the highest or any offer.

20mph limit continues to spark controversy despite new figures

CONTROvERsy over the Labour Welsh government’s rollout of the 20mph default speed limit shows no signs of slowing, despite the release of new compliance statistics.

The policy, which came into force last year, has faced criticism from drivers, businesses and communities across Wales. Many remain confused by the blanket implementation of the limit, which replaced the previous 30mph standard in most built-up areas.

Figures published this week suggest high levels of compliance among motorists—but opponents say this only demonstrates that drivers are law-abiding, not that the policy itself is supported.

The Welsh Government spent £32 million on implementing the scheme. Its own impact assessment warned it could cost the Welsh economy up to £9 billion.

Speaking to The Herald, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Transport & Infrastructure, Peter Fox MS said: “The roll out of Labour’s 20mph speed limit has been controversial to say the least and our concern remains the way the 20mph speed limit has been implemented.

“These latest statistics do nothing

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more than prove drivers are law-abiding citizens adhering to a speed limit that the vast majority do not support.

“We continue to believe a targeted approach, focusing on sensitive areas like schools and hospitals, is the right

way to improve road safety without unnecessarily penalising drivers on roads where 20mph is inappropriate. That is why we would revert back to a 30mph default limit, only introducing 20mph where it is needed.”

The Herald understands that local authorities have also raised concerns about signage, enforcement, and the long-term costs of the policy.

Major housing development plans submitted for Broad Haven

PLANs for a development of 76 homes in a Pembrokeshire seaside village have formally been submitted to the national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Millbay Homes, through agent Asbri Planning, seeks permission for the development of 76 homes and associated works on land East of Marine Parade, Broad Haven, near Haverfordwest.

The proposal seeks to build 10 onebed properties; 20 two-bed, 32 threebed, 10 four-bed, and four five-bed properties, with Millbay Homes have been liaising with the authority`s housing department about the requirement for affordable housing at the site, the authority favouring a rate of some 34 per cent affordable.

The site itself is allocated for up to 87 residential dwellings.

The applicants say the scheme will “lead to the creation of a high-quality and attractive place to live and will contribute to creating a distinct sense of place”.

A supporting statement adds: “Rather than imposing a rigid, flat layout, the homes are arranged to follow the natural contours of the land, stepping up and down in response to the site’s slopes.

“This approach minimizes the need for extensive excavation and preserves much of the natural landscape. It also ensures that each home has a unique relationship with its surroundings, with most properties benefiting from stunning sea views due to their elevated positions.

“By embracing the site’s topography, the development not only minimises

coastal environment.

its environmental impact but also creates a visually appealing and varied streetscape that feels integrated into the natural landscape rather than imposed upon it.”

The scheme has been subject to revisions following discussions with planners, moving from an initial increase from 62 to 77 homes, now dropped to 76 to provide an ‘informal open space’ “designed to meet the planners’ request and to offer a communal area where residents can enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation in a natural setting”.

The formal pre-application consultation ran up to late January of this year.

The statement stresses: “The proposed residential housing scheme represents a carefully considered response to the village’s architectural heritage, challenging topography, and

MIKE EDWARDS

WHENEvER i think of my beloved wife, i do not attribute to her the ability to let her feelings remain unknown. Restraint in the teeth of provocation is not her bag. The missus prefers to ventilate her views and share them with those who have, even in some small way, caused her annoyance.

She has shared pieces of her mind with others so often that I cannot help but speculate about the amount left of it rattling around her noggin.

Last weekend, however, she proved me wrong.

She often proves me wrong (even if it means conspiring with her to ignore all the evidence that I am, in fact, 100% right). But last weekend was different.

We were treated to a visit by her cousin, Barry.

Or as everyone calls him, ‘that idle sod, Barry Twp’.

Barry has lived a happy life. Mummy looked after him until he was well into adulthood. Then he found someone else to be his mummy – in a manner of speaking. But, guided by his wandering penis, Barry decided to pitch in his lot with a new woman.

And that is why Barry pitched up at Casa Edwards. He was bereft. He had made a dreadful mistake. The wife heard poor Barry’s tale of woe, offering a vague occasional nod to indicate she was hoping he’d be finished before Judge Judy started.

I paid scant heed. There was a mug of tea to be drunk and biscuits to be dunked.

It was, therefore, mid-Rich Tea dunk (an art form I have practised for many years with variable success) that I vaguely heard Barry Twp get to the gristle of his anguished state.

The new woman was not prepared to just go out and work to support poor Barry Twp. She expected him to get a job, too.

“Was she”, Barry asked, “expecting him to support her?”

I was momentarily engrossed by the wife’s expression. I was so engrossed that my Rich Tea decided to make an ill-advised bolt for freedom, only to drown in my mug of Glengettie.

“Through a thoughtful, collaborative design process, incorporating comments and feedback from the planning officers and public, the development will create a vibrant, sustainable community that offers diverse housing options, maximises sea views, and integrates seamlessly with its surroundings.”

The application concludes: “The ambition for the site is to create a contemporary development of liveable, affordable homes within Broad Haven which takes advantage of the site’s seaside location, in accordance with the council’s housing allocation within the Local Development Plan.

“In light of the above, it is concluded that the proposal fully accords with both national and local policies and there are no material considerations which should prevent the planning application from being determined in accordance with the relevant planning policy framework.”

The application will be considered by national park planners at a later date.

Metaphors are a dangerous thing, but – metaphorically speaking – the wife was biting her tongue so hard that there appeared an imminent risk of a trickle of blood escaping her lips. There were a few crowded seconds while I could see her battling the impulse to flamethrower ‘that idle sod Barry Twp’.

The urge to unleash the verbal hounds was fighting with the knowledge that Auntie Mabel – Barry’s mam – was a vindictive old cow who could and would exact bitter revenge in a variety of unpleasant and petty ways.

I took a sip of my soup-like, oversweet tea, straining the biscuit through my upper dentures and waited for the inevitable explosion.

It never came.

Instead, she placed a hand on Barry’s and said: “Never mind, Barry, love. I’m sure there’s someone out there who will love you for you are.” He was ludicrously grateful.

I was bloody amazed.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Welsh communities face disconnection, survey finds

LEss than half of Welsh homeowners believe their local community is thriving, with many never taking part in community activities, a new uk-wide survey has found.

The research, released by Humphreys Oil – part of Certas Energy – reveals that only 44 per cent of Welsh

homeowners consider their community to be flourishing. Alarmingly, nearly one in three (32 per cent) respondents in Wales say they never engage in any community activities, a rate significantly higher than the UK average of one in four.

The findings suggest that Wales is experiencing one of the highest

strengthen local ties and improve shared spaces.

The Community Bloom Fund, available to community groups across the UK, aims to support initiatives that bring people together – from upgrading parks and community centres to sponsoring grassroots sports teams and local events.

Richard Billington, Managing Director of Energy Solutions for Certas Energy, said: “We supply off-grid energy across Wales and the UK, and every day we see first-hand the power of community. When we saw that one in three Welsh people never engage in community activities, we knew we had to do something to help change that.

“That’s why the Community Bloom Fund exists – to bring people together, bolster communities, and create a greater sense of place, especially in rural areas. Whether it’s parentand-baby groups, gardening clubs or local centres hosting events, thriving community initiatives can make a huge difference to people’s physical and mental health.”

levels of community disengagement in the UK. Rural areas are particularly affected, with residents across the UK living in rural locations found to be 23 per cent less likely to feel connected to their communities than those in urban settings.

In response, Humphreys Oil has launched a £30,000 fund to help

Applications for the fund are open until 28th May 2025. Community groups are invited to submit a short summary of their work and explain how they would use the funding to support their local area.

To apply, visit: www.certasenergy. co.uk/community-bloom-fund

Renovation of historic Tenby hotel given the green light

WORks to a prominent listed Pembrokeshire hotel have been given the go-ahead by national park planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Simon Fry, through agent Asbri Planning, sought listed building consent for works to the Grade-II-listed 1-2 Royal Lion Hotel, High Street, Tenby, said to be one of the oldest hotels in the town.

The works included replacement windows, replace window with original door opening, works to existing parapet, blocking up of windows, render front elevation, blocking up of existing windows, retain existing signage, remove and rebuild existing chimney stack and other minor ancillary works.

The proposals were supported by Tenby Civic Society: “We welcome the scheme, being done very much in character with the original and will complete a very welcome refurb enhancing this prominent point in the town”

It had requested some “minor corrections,” including “retaining the ‘stage door’ stained glass window on the rear door onto Upper Frog Street”.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Tenby Town Council also supported the scheme, saying it was “a muchdesired enhancement of a Grade-IIlisted building within the Conservation Area”.

A supporting statement for the application said: “In terms of the replacements and overall works these would be of sympathetic materials appropriate to its setting, ensuring the existing character of the building is preserved. The intention is to replace on a like-for-like basis where possible, although the new replacements will be double glazed.”

It added: “The works are necessitated following the previous structural survey undertaken on the two ground floor bays which revealed they are in poor condition and are in need of reinstatement as soon as possible in the interests of the integrity of the listed building and for public safety.

“The replacement of the other bay structures and windows on the front and northern side elevations were also necessitated given their deterioration over time which has led to an adverse visual impact on the listed building and surrounding area.

“Given the previous state of the bays and windows, the works that have been recently undertaken are a significant betterment to the existing situation, and the works

the subject of this application would further enhance the quality of the listed building, avoiding further dilapidation.”

Last year, an Urgent Works Notice was served for works on the hotel by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, with an application for

those works later granted.

The latest application added: “The building in question is of great significance to the town of Tenby and its Conservation Area. It stands as one of the oldest hotels in Tenby and as identified above, holds great historic and heritage merit.”

Rugby legend Gareth Thomas to star as Genie in Pembrokeshire pantomime

WELsH rugby icon gareth Thomas is set to swap the pitch for the pantomime stage this Christmas, as he takes on the magical role of the genie in The big Pembrokeshire Pantomime’s production of Aladdin.

The former Wales captain, who earned 100 caps for his country and is regarded as one of the nation’s most iconic sportsmen, will bring his trademark charisma and larger-thanlife energy to the show, which runs from 10th to 31st December 2025.

He joins a cast that includes seasoned performer and director Drew Baker, who will be pulling double duty as Widow Twankey and as director, and Pure West Radio’s Tom Dyer, who steps into the villainous shoes of Abanazer.

A spokesperson for The Big Pembs Panto said: “We are absolutely over the moon to have Gareth Thomas joining

our pantomime family. Gareth is not only a national treasure but also has the charisma and stage presence that will make him a perfect Genie. His addition to our cast brings a whole new level of magic to what was already shaping up to be our most spectacular show yet.”

Drew Baker added: “Working with Gareth is going to be absolutely brilliant! He brings so much energy and enthusiasm to everything he does, and I know audiences are going to be utterly spellbound by his performance. The chemistry between our cast is already fantastic, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve got in store – it’s going to be our biggest, boldest and funniest pantomime yet!”

Tickets for Aladdin are already selling fast and can be purchased online at bigpembspanto.com

farming couple takes bull by the horns in family fund raiser for talented singers

A Pembrokeshire farming couple will be taking the bull firmly by the horns next month after agreeing to take part in one of the toughest cycling challenges in Wales’ cycling calendar – the Carten100.

Mark and Caroline Davies – who run the 265-acre dairy farm at New House, Little Newcastle – have agreed to do the 108-mile cycle to raise funds for ‘Anna’s Song’, which is a charity set up in memory of Caroline’s 13-year-old niece who died in a swimming tragedy in Florida in 2024.

“When my sister, Liz, first mentioned that she’d be cycling the Carten100 to raise funds for ‘Anna’s Song’, I started googling it and decided it would be a good idea to take part too,” explained Caroline. “Liz did it five or six years ago, but when I told them about my idea to take part too, they all laughed!”

But a week later, Caroline received a road bike, complete with a helmet, from Liz’s husband Pete, who is himself a highly accomplished cyclist.

“Pete had every faith in me, and this has helped to spur me on and start training for an event that I never imagined would be possible.”

Last December Caroline’s husband, Mark, decided that he, too, would take part in the Carten100 which extends from Cardiff city centre to Cowbridge, Swansea, Llanelli, Burry Port, Carmarthen, St Clears and Tavernspite before finally terminating at Tenby Harbour.

But with around 400 head of cattle to manage as well as three young daughters aged 11, 7 and 2, the couple’s training schedule has been challenging..

“It goes without saying that our lives are very hectic, but we’re managing to find time to either get out onto the roads or have half and hour on the turbo,” continued Caroline, “Obviously turbo training can be pretty boring, but at least there’s a little wild rabbit who comes out

Sarah Jane Absalom sarah.jane.absalom@herald.email

into the garden which I can watch which helps relieve the monotony.

“This morning I managed to do half an hour and I’lll be doing another 30 minutes later this evening. Over the weekend we’ll be going out for a much longer ride, but this takes a lot of planning. The vet is coming out for a routine visit first thing on Saturday morning, we’ve got a meeting scheduled for later that day and then we have to make sure we have a babysitter on hand to look after the children.

“And when we get back from the ride, it’s back on with the wellies to do some more farming.”

‘Anna’s Song’ was launched following Anna Beaumont’s tragic death in May, 2024. The 13-year-old was a highly accomplished singer, who

had performed extensively with Only Kids Aloud and Only Girls Aloud on platforms across the UK as well as at Disneyland, Paris, and St Davids Hall in Cardiff. The charity is raising funds to help support talented teenage singers with professionally led workshops, live events and partnerships to help them pursue a career in singing.

“The first workshop was held at the end of March at the Welsh College of Music and Drama and the feedback we’ve had from the families of the six young people who took part has been phenomenal,” said Caroline.

“The charity’s aim is to offer opportunities to inspire young singers by hosting workshops, events and mentorships.”

Meanwhile, with just three weeks to go before the Carten 100 takes place on May 10, Caroline and Mark are doing everything they can to step-up their training regime so they can complete

the challenge together with Liz, Pete and their son, Jake Beaumont who, at 12 years old, will be one of the youngest cyclists taking part.

“Now that it’s getting closer, the stress levels are definitely starting to kick in, and it’s getting to the point where I’m beginning to wonder whether it might be easier to sit all my A’ levels again,” laughs Caroline.

“There’s no way that I would be doing the Carten100 if it wasn’t for the family circumstances, and at the end of the day, I’m determined not to fail. Mark and I are doing absolutely everything we can to ensure our fitness levels are capable of completing it, and I know that once we set off from Cardiff on May 10, the adrenaline is going to kick in. All we want to do is help to boost ‘Anna’s Song’ just that little bit more.”

If you would like to make a donation to Anna’s Song, click on the link

The Glass Dome

The Glass Dome, Netflix’s latest entry into the Nordic noir genre, is a captivating Swedish crime thriller that masterfully blends psychological depth with edge-of-your-seat suspense. The series follows Lejla, a criminologist who reluctantly returns to her snowy hometown of Granås—a place scarred by her own traumatic past. As she investigates a present-day kidnapping eerily similar to her own childhood abduction, secrets begin to unravel, and long-buried memories resurface with chilling clarity.

From the first episode, The Glass Dome immerses viewers in an atmosphere thick with tension and unease. The series does an excellent job of peeling back layers of both

plot and character, creating a narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling. Léonie Vincent delivers a compelling and emotionally charged performance as Lejla, portraying a woman torn between confronting her past and protecting her present. Her portrayal adds depth and authenticity, making her journey all the more gripping.

The show’s cinematography is another standout element—moody landscapes, stark interiors, and snowy silence all work together to create a haunting visual style that complements the story’s dark themes. The pacing is tight and deliberate, with each episode ending in just enough mystery to keep you pressing “Next Episode” without hesitation.

Critics have praised the show for its intricate plotting and atmospheric tension. Collider described it as “a taut and highly bingeable whodunit kidnapping thriller,” highlighting its unpredictable twists and strong emotional undercurrents. It’s not just a mystery—it’s a meditation on trauma, memory, and the ways in which the past can shatter and reshape our present.

For fans of Nordic noir, psychological thrillers, or simply well-crafted storytelling, The Glass Dome is a standout addition to Netflix’s international offerings. It’s a binge-worthy experience that delivers not only suspense but emotional depth, making it one of the most memorable new thrillers of the year.

Thunderbolts*

Marvel Studios’ upcoming film Thunderbolts is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and daring entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Slated for release in May 2025, the movie brings together a compelling team of antiheroes and complex characters, each with their own baggage, trauma, and redemption arcs. It’s a bold, gritty shift that fans have been craving.

The cast lineup is stacked: Florence Pugh returns as Yelena Belova, bringing her signature sharp wit and emotional depth; Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes continues his path of redemption; and David Harbour’s Red Guardian adds both heart and humor. Alongside them are Wyatt Russell’s intense U.S. Agent, Hannah John-Kamen’s mysterious Ghost, and Lewis

Pullman as the enigmatic Sentry, whose arc reportedly delivers one of the film’s most powerful moments.

What truly sets Thunderbolts apart is its tone. Early impressions describe it as a grounded, emotionally driven story in the vein of The Winter Soldier. Instead of cosmic threats and multiverse chaos, the focus is on fractured relationships, internal conflict, and the moral ambiguity of its protagonists. It’s a refreshing change of pace that dives deep into character dynamics and trust issues within a team that’s anything but traditional.

One particularly jawdropping moment off screen involved Florence Pugh performing a real-life stunt from one of the tallest buildings in the

world. That level of commitment perfectly reflects the intensity and authenticity the film is aiming for — a mix of adrenaline and emotional rawness.

The stylized title, Thunderbolts (with an asterisk), has sparked endless speculation. Whether it hints at a surprise twist, a deeper theme, or simply a creative flourish, it’s doing its job by keeping fans guessing and engaged.

In all, Thunderbolts looks like it’s set to be a game-changer — a darker, more mature Marvel film that doesn’t shy away from tough questions and flawed heroes. With powerful performances, high-stakes action, and a fresh narrative tone, it’s poised to be a breakout hit that reinvigorates the MCU in thrilling new ways.

Tech and Taff

ALRigHT buTT? you know the internet’s gone mad when the folks who made ChatgPT are eyeing up google Chrome like it’s the last pasty in the bakery.

This week, a bombshell dropped bigger than a dropped phone on a slate floor — OpenAI (them AI clever clogs behind ChatGPT) said they’d love to get their hands on Chrome, if Google were forced to flog it. This came out during a juicy court case in the States where Google is on the naughty step for being too big for its boots.

Nick Turley, one of OpenAI’s top brass, was giving evidence in Washington DC during a proper heavyweight monopoly trial. The US government reckons Google’s too dominant when it comes to online search — and maybe a bit too handy with the digital elbows. Google, not surprisingly, reckons it’s done nowt wrong and wants the whole case thrown out quicker than last week’s cawl.

Still, if the judges decide to start chopping bits off the tech giant, Chrome might end up in the shop window. And OpenAI? They’ve already got their nose pressed up against the glass.

Now, let’s put this in perspective — Chrome is massive. According to Similarweb (not a dodgy cousin’s startup, but an actual analytics firm), Chrome is used by around 64% of people online. Next best is Apple’s Safari at just 21%. So yeah, Chrome’s the Dafydd Iwan of web browsers — absolutely everywhere.

Interestingly, OpenAI apparently offered Google a deal last year: “Let us plug your search into ChatGPT and we’ll be best mates.” But Google ghosted them. No deal, no chat, no partnership. Bit frosty that, innit?

OpenAI, meanwhile, is already snogging Microsoft — the lads behind Bing and the Edge browser (you know, the one people mostly use to download Chrome). So there’s history here.

And while they’re at it, OpenAI’s apparently also toying with the idea of launching its own social network. According to The Verge, Sam Altman and co have been sniffing around the idea of making something to rival X (that’s the app formerly known as Twitter, not your uncle’s dodgy WhatsApp group). Could get spicy — especially since Altman used to work with Elon Musk until the two fell out harder than a pub quiz team on finals night.

Meanwhile, Google isn’t twiddling its thumbs. It’s got its own AI arsenal called Gemini, which is trying to outchat ChatGPT.

This trial is set to run for a few more weeks — but every tech bigwig from Meta to Apple will be watching like hawks with popcorn.

If Chrome does get flogged off, imagine that: your web browser owned by the same people who help you write your emails, your CV, and your excuse note to the boss. Let’s just hope it doesn’t start hallucinating halfway through your tax return.

Until next week — stay techy, Taffs.

Dinosaurs roar into Milford this summer

THE gREATEsT prehistoric show on Earth is coming to Pembrokeshire – and families are in for a ROARsome treat.

Dinosaur Adventure Live will headline the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven on Thursday, July 24, bringing its brand-new 2025 adventure The Big Jurassic Storm to life for local audiences.

Now in its third chapter, the hit family show promises a thrilling mix of fun, learning, and awe-inspiring animatronic dinosaurs. From the thunderous roar of a T-Rex to the chance to feed baby dinos (if you’re brave enough), the immersive stage experience transports audiences back to the Jurassic era.

Written by Mike Newman (Exciting Science), the story follows a team of rangers on Dinosaur Island after a satellite malfunction causes the island’s

weather system to spiral out of control. A tropical storm brews, threatening to destroy everything – unless the code to reset the satellite can be found in time.

Set in an overgrown science lab, the show invites the audience to help save the dinosaurs before it’s too late – blending adventure, education, and comedy in equal measure. Children are encouraged to join in, and organisers say adults often get just as involved.

RED Entertainment said: “This is a show 65 million years in the making. Whether you’re four or forty, Dinosaur Adventure Live is a magical experience for everyone.”

The show runs for one hour with no interval, and includes a meet-andgreet session with the dinosaurs after the performance. It is recommended for children aged 4 and above.

Capcom fighting collection 2

Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is a well-crafted anthology that brings together eight beloved fighting games from Capcom’s storied history. With fan-favorite titles like Capcom vs. sNk 2, Power stone 1 & 2, street Fighter Alpha 3 upper, and Project justice, the collection offers a balanced mix of competitive classics and cult favorites, making it a compelling package for both longtime fans and newcomers to the genre. Each game is faithfully

presented with modern enhancements that improve the experience without sacrificing authenticity. Online play across all titles is powered by rollback netcode, ensuring smooth, competitive matches. For casual players, new control options like one-button special moves make these games more approachable, while training modes with hitbox displays give serious players the tools they need to refine their skills. A rich museum mode adds extra value, featuring concept

art, design documents, and full soundtracks that highlight Capcom’s creative legacy. Whether you’re revisiting your arcade favorites or discovering hidden gems for the first time, the collection is packed with content and polish.

Releasing on May 16, 2025, Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is more than just a nostalgia trip—it’s a celebration of the genre’s evolution and a mustown for anyone who loves fighting games.

HOROSCOPES

their point of view. Fortunately, your mental energy has given you an open, curious mind and the willingness to work on this aspect of yourself. Use these powers to improve your life.

LIBRA

You’re reevaluating your relationship with romance. How much of what you need from your intimate relationships has been dictated to you by others? Now you’re ready to toss all that aside and focus on your real personal needs and desires from that special someone in your life. It might seem like a huge task, but finding someone who can keep up with you is ultimately a very rewarding venture.

SCORPIO

Apply yourself, your irresistible energy, and your radiant confidence to getting rid of some mildly unfortunate habits that were once comfortable, but are just now starting to chafe. The familiar can easily become a prison if you let it stop you from exploring different possibilities. The cosmos is pushing you to grow and change, which means letting go of something you think you really need.

SAGITTARIUS

You’re in an extra-weird mood and possibly feeling off-balance, but that’s all. So why are you trying so hard to make sure that what you’re feeling isn’t seen as a big deal? Dismissing your emotions right now isn’t the best course of action (it rarely is), though superficially it may seem like the easiest thing for you to do. Try instead to take a good, long look at what’s really going on in your heart.

CAPRICORN

It may feel as if you’ve got the whole world on your shoulders. You are pretty strong, but it’s still time to do something about your burden. You could end up with a serious crick in your neck, and who could possibly take on your

AQUARIUS

Badger and a touch of class

POLiTiCiANs spend so much time talking about underspending and overspending that they’ve lost sight of their obligation to eliminate wasteful spending.

The money that governments spend comes from taxes, duties, and tariffs. Whether a government takes over British Steel or bails out a foreign steel company to keep Port Talbot Steelworks open, the money spent is yours, readers.

Governments owe their citizens a duty not to waste the money they extract from them. Despite that duty, governments manage public money inefficiently and wastefully. As a general rule, the greater the number of bureaucratic hands through which public money passes before being spent on the end product, the greater the waste.

No two instances of wasteful spending are alike. However, two causes of wasteful spending are closely interlinked: restrictive regulations and systems of patronage.

The UK (and Wales, particularly) is regulated to the hilt. In Wales, the government transfers public funds to politically favoured and connected third-sector bodies, quangos, and one thousand and one single interest groups. By the time the last pound coin trickles out of the end of the flow chart, it’s been clipped so many times it’s become a 20p piece.

Over-regulation and the Welsh Government’s propensity to doling out public money to its pals create a perfect storm in which getting anything done gets tangled in endless negotiation between special interests, single interest groups, and the requirements of myriad well-meaning but ill-thought-out pieces of legislation. Each of those increases costs without necessarily conferring any measurable benefits.

Even something acknowledged to be urgent and essential, like modernising the dysfunctional and unfit-for-purpose Welsh NHS, gets wrapped up in talking shops, inquiries, working groups, and the dreaded “deep dive”.

The current UK Government follows a technocratic policy that seeks to clear away the red tape and interest-group NIMBYism. It wants to brush aside those standing in the way of the expedited delivery of public services or capital investment for what

the government perceives as public goods, of which housing and green energy infrastructure are the most obvious examples.

That course has major political drawbacks.

First, the bureaucratic bottlenecks that UK Labour want to circumvent are closely guarded by the same progressive constituencies that Welsh Labour has spent decades cultivating. If Labour wants to bulldoze through infrastructure projects, it won’t be only picking fights with a lot of Conservatives. Labour will antagonise its well-heeled supporters who love hugging trees for peace in Gaza or knitting tofu for the starving in Africa. It will also antagonise a wiltingly left-wing media that moans about the UK’s failure to expedite major capital projects while decrying the steps necessary to secure their completion.

Second, the only way to force projects through is to reduce or bypass any pretence at local scrutiny. That places a wedge between local communities and those supposed to represent their interests at a national level. Labour’s popularity is not such that it can safely ignore local pressures in marginal seats.

Lastly, as trust in governments collapsed, so did trust in elite theorising and the notion of government by “big ideas”. The record of the four UK governments’ delivery of major projects is risible. In Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Westminster, major capital projects and policy initiatives have been unmitigated failures.

Every time something goes wrong with a public service, voices cry out for more money to be spent on it. It never occurs to them that services might have enough money but that it is spent inefficiently.

When the average citizen sees money earmarked for important works of public benefit wasted or deployed with comical inefficiency, their trust in governments’ abilities to take on such tasks diminishes. Spreading public money to single-issue groups and third-sector bodies and then watching those same organisations campaign against the construction of, for example, a new hospital or a new road gives the average voter even less reason to take governance seriously.

The main driver of Labour’s problem is that the party in Wales that likes to see itself as the party of the workers is perceived, not inaccurately, as the party of urban elites by that part of the electorate upon whom it traditionally depends: white voters without a college degree.

More broadly, voters remain distrustful of institutions, and urban liberals have dominated most of those Welsh institutions for decades.

Voters in Wales are traditionally socially conservative and economically liberal. The Welsh Government has sorely tested them on all counts. It has spent political capital on woo-woo aspirations without any thought of their cumulative legislative effect. Voters are royally fed up with being told that what they think and believe is wrong, that national pride is racism, that their past is something of which they should be ashamed and for which they must pay compensation, or that biological sex is little more than a vibe.

The dangers of that are selfevident, even to the dimmest Welsh Labour Party member. Firstly, the

distance between the government and the governed is too wide. Second, when confidence in a government’s competence and ability to manage services wanes, voters look to other parties. When voters see a record of failure by the principal parties, they turn to others untainted by the constraints of governance or common sense.

Reform UK’s increased popularity in Welsh opinion polls shows that voters with profoundly serious concerns will consider voting for profoundly unserious parties if those parties’ messages chime with their grievances.

Anger and resentment have been fermenting for years.

Ironically, the likely outlet for voters’ fury is a limited company capriciously run by an English nationalist millionaire with no connection to Wales and no discernible interest in devolution other than getting MSs elected.

That is Welsh Labour’s triumph. It has made the unthinkable possible.

THEY CLUCK NICE THINGS WHEN YOU’RE DEAD

bLiMiN’ typical, innit? One minute you’re squawkin’ truths about bombs and billionaires, the next you’re toast – and suddenly all the seagulls who hated your guts are cooing like pigeons at a church wedding.

So it goes for Pope Francis, poor feathered fella. He’s barely cold and now every two-faced suit from Starmer to Biden is pretending they loved him. Starmer, who nicked heating money from grannies, called him a “pope for the poor.” Biden, arms dealer-in-chief for the carnage in Gaza, reckons he was all about ending global suffering. Pull the other one – it’s got rosary beads on it.

This pope didn’t mince his words. Called out Gaza as “terrorism,” not war. Backed a Palestinian state. Rang the only Catholic church in Gaza every day. But try finding that in the Beeb’s headlines. Western press covered his Easter message like a pigeon covers a statue: not at all unless it’s messy.

And let’s talk about Gaza’s Christians. Church bombed, school hit, worshippers shot in their pews – and barely a squawk from our socalled leaders. The pope cared. The rest? Too busy polishing their “Thoughts and Prayers” tweets.

Then there’s the F-35 jets flattening Gaza – guess who makes the parts? That’s right, Blighty does. And when Pope Francis dared utter the word “genocide,” our government clammed up faster than a seagull at a vegan picnic.

Funny thing is, when Thatcher croaked, anyone who said boo got called disrespectful. But when a fella like Francis goes – someone who actually had morals – we get the sanitised version. No mention of his real views. Just platitudes, as bland as communion wafers in a storm.

At least mad-as-a-mackerel Marjorie Taylor Greene was honest:

said “evil is being defeated by the hand of God.” Charming. But hey, she’s less hypocritical than the rest of ’em.

Look, Francis wasn’t perfect. Bit dodgy on LGBTQ+ stuff. And popes aren’t exactly elected by the people, are they? But when push came to shove, he had the guts to say what others wouldn’t. That counts for something.

They can’t cancel a pope, see. So they rewrite him. Smooth out the feathers. Hide the hard truths. But not on my watch, pal.

From the docks of Milford to the ruins of Gaza, a voice like his mattered. And if the big birds up top won’t listen, well… maybe it’s time us gulls started squawkin’ louder.

Till next time, keep your beak clean and your eyes on the fish.

Stena Line declares 2025 the Year of Pet Travel

Swedish-owned ferry company, stena Line has declared 2025 the year of pet travel, building on the 78,000 pet crossings recorded on the irish sea in 2024, as interest in pet-friendly sailings continues to grow.

With a 28% increase in Google searches on pet travel within the last four years, the increasingly popular trend is being driven by owners’ reluctance to go on holiday without their ‘best friend’ and an increase in the number of pet friendly accommodation offerings.

As Stena Line predicts more pets on it ferries, a study by the University of Surrey claims the value of the dog-friendly travel sector will rise to £40bn by 2030.

But before you take a short break to England, Wales or Scotland, Stena Line is advising pet owners to plan well in advance and take five key steps to ensure your trip gets off to the ‘pawfect’ start.

FivE Easy steps

1. Vaccines/Documents:

Ensure your pet fully meets requirements on vaccines and relevant documentation to travel. The requirements can be different depending on your destination so make sure you research what you need ahead of your journey. These principals also apply to assistance dogs.

2. Microchips: Your pet needs to be microchipped to travel. Ensure your details are up to date on the microchip.

3. Insurance: Review your pet insurance and ensure it meets your needs. The best policies will cover vets bills and replacing lost/stolen travel documents.

4. First Aid: Pack a first aid kit, a pet friendly travel guide and plenty of treats and waste bags.

5. Plan Ahead: Include a collapsible water bowl, treats, and a secure lead or harness. These essentials keep your pet hydrated and comfortable during the voyage and help you manage your pet’s needs

on the go.

Orla Noonan, Stena Line Travel Commercial Manager, said the ferry company wants to ensure more families than ever before can enjoy an adventure with their four-legged friends this year.

She said: “At Stena Line, we know pets are important members of the family and we have made every effort to welcome them onboard, including increasing our number of pet cabins by 34% across our Irish Sea fleet.

“Stena Line is the best choice for pet travel on the Irish Sea and our offering is constantly improving. We are experiencing more and more owners travelling with their pets and due to the increasing popularity Stena Line is declaring 2025 the year of pet travel.

“‘It can sometimes feel a little daunting travelling with your pet, but we want to ensure pet owners that Stena Line is the relaxing way for you and your pet to travel.”

Stena Line’s pet-friendly

travel options when travelling to Ireland, France and Britain include pet cabins, a pet lounge (onboard Stena Superfast when travelling on the CairnryanBelfast route) and the option to leave your pet in the car, in kennels or dog lodges during the journey.

Pet influencer Nikki O’Carroll (@TheDailyCavalier) frequently crosses the Irish Sea with her three King Charles Cavalier spaniels, and says the convenience and comfort offered by Stena Line makes travelling with pets plain sailing.

She said “Travelling with your pet for the first time can seem daunting but, as long as you plan ahead, and are well prepared, it really couldn’t be simpler.

“We’ve done a lot of travelling with Coco, Juno and Gigi but the warm welcome from the crew and outstanding pet friendly facilities mean ferry travel is always our preference.”

Pre-booking your pet is mandatory, for more information and to book your next trip visit www.stenaline.co.uk.

Something for everyone at the Torch Summer School

WiTH the summer holidays on the horizon, the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven is once again preparing to open its doors for a season of creativity, performance and fun.

Whether you’re planning an exotic getaway or opting for a staycation closer to home, the Torch’s popular Summer Schools promise to fill August with exciting activities and memories to last a lifetime.

Over the years, the Torch Theatre has earned a strong reputation for delivering highquality summer programmes for children and young people. Now, with the addition of an adult summer school, the Torch is proud to offer something for everyone aged seven and over.

“Come and join our funpacked creative sessions, which include performing in our studio theatre for family and friends,” said Tim Howe, Senior Manager for Youth and

Community at the Torch. “We’ve got opportunities for adults and children to get inspired and express themselves artistically. With storytelling adventures, plays produced in a week, and workshops on writing, directing and performance, we know there’s something for everyone.”

Mr Howe added: “Led by professionals with international experience and top drama school training, our summer schools are open to all. There’s no audition, and no previous experience is needed. We’re committed to inclusivity and will make reasonable adjustments so that everyone can enjoy a fulfilling experience.”

The Torch Summer Schools 2025:

Dramatic Detectives

For Year 3 to Year 6 (ages 7–11)

A series of mysterious crimes has rocked the land of makebelieve. But what happened, who’s responsible, and can it be stopped in time? Through creative play and storytelling, children will work together to crack the case.

Sessions run daily from 10:00am to 3:00pm, Monday 4 to Friday 8 August.

Playmakers

For Year 7 to Year 13 (ages 11–18)

Take on the exciting challenge of learning and performing a contemporary play in just one week. Participants will get involved in every aspect of the production – from casting and costumes to props and music.

Sessions run from 10:00am to 4:00pm, Monday 11 to Friday 15 August.

show Off!

Ages 18+

Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, the adult summer school offers a supportive environment to explore writing, performance and direction. The programme concludes with a showcase performance in the studio theatre.

Evening sessions run from 6:30pm to 9:00pm on Thursdays 7, 14, 21 and 28 August, with a final performance on Saturday 30 August.

Tim concluded: “Our Summer Schools are always incredibly popular, so early booking is recommended. You can find more information and book your place at www. torchtheatre.co.uk or call our friendly Box Office team on 01646 695267.” What are you waiting for? Try something new this summer – and make the Torch Theatre part of your August adventure.

Top progressive farmers are encouraged to apply for award

iF yOu farm in Pembrokeshire and can demonstrate your farm’s use of the latest technological methods to promote progressive, sustainable agriculture then the Pembrokeshire Agricultural society encourage you to enter the prestigious baron de Rutzen Award.

Tim Johns, Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society’s President, said, “We are looking for local Pembrokeshire farmers, under the age of 45, who can demonstrate their farm’s use of the latest technological methods to promote progressive, sustainable agriculture. They also need to show consideration for the environment and habitat sensitivity on their farm as well as present an aesthetically pleasing example of farming in the county. The competition welcomes all those in the livestock and arable sectors to enter.”

Last year’s winners of the Award were Andrew and Jane Phillips of Windsor Farm, Lamphey. They farm 1,100 acres, with 3,000 breeding sheep and lambs. A herd of British Blue cross Limousin suckler cows sired by a

Limousin bull and all calves are sold as weaned. The arable side of the business includes 80 acres of winter and spring barley which is mostly used for stock consumption. The surplus is sold. They grow 150 acres of maize which is used in a Totally Mixed Ration (TMR) for their sheep. Again, the surplus is sold to dairy farms. Some land is rented out for growing potatoes and leeks. The autumn season sees the general public invited in to buy some of the six acres

of Pumpkins they grow for the Halloween market. Besides this, they are also involved with the holiday business by renting out two shepherd’s huts for visitors. Baron John Fredrick De Rutzen was President of Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society in 1936 and the Baron de Rutzen Trophy was produced in his memory. The third Baron served in the Welsh Guards and tragically died, aged 36, in 1944.

This year’s entrants must be

fully practising farmers within the county of Pembrokeshire and were under the age of 45 years on 1 January 2025. Entries can either be by nomination or direct application online on the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society website. Click here to apply: Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society Baron de Rutzen Award 2025

The closing date for nominations and applications is at noon on Monday, 30 June 2025.

Challenges facing Welsh farmers highlighted to Gwent Senedd Members

THE Farmers’ union of Wales (FuW) recently welcomed Plaid Cymru south Wales East senedd Members, Delyth jewell Ms and Peredur Owen griffiths Ms on a farm visit in blaenau gwent, highlighting the uncertainties facing the agricultural sector in Wales.

The pair visited FUW Gwent County Chair, Wayne Langford’s farm near Trefil, Blaenau Gwent. Delyth and Peredur have become regular visitors on Wayne and Tracy’s farm over recent years, calling by the farm during lambing season to see the new lambs, and learn more about the challenges facing the farming sector.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues, including developments regarding the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), the UK Government’s changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) as well as the wider implications of Donald Trump’s tariffs and potential transatlantic trade deal that could undermine Welsh farmers.

Earlier this month, the FUW wrote to the UK Government warning about the dangers of an unfavourable trade deal between the USA and UK.

The union warned a rushed trade deal could see Welsh agricultural interests being “sold down the river” in the UK Government’s pursuit of short-term trade concessions. This could see Welsh farmers competing with cheaper, sub-standard imports, including chlorinated chicken and

hormone-injected beef.

Delyth and Peredur were joined by FUW President, Ian Rickman, FUW Regional Vice-President, Brian Bowen and FUW Policy Officer, Gemma Haines.

Commenting following the visit, Peredur Owen Griffiths, Plaid Cymru Senedd Member for South Wales East said:

“Welsh farmers are weathering an unprecedented storm of challenges. From the looming uncertainty surrounding future Welsh Government farm funding to the impact of illconceived UK Government policies, and the very real threat of unfavourable

trade deals that could erode Wales’ cherished high food standards.

We remain grateful to the FUW for providing this vital opportunity to once again visit Wayne’s farm and delve deeper into these pressing issues. Given the fundamental role family farms play in the vitality of our rural communities, it is imperative that governments at both ends of the M4 prioritise and implement more robust support that ensures their future sustainability.”

Farmers’ Union of Wales President, Ian Rickman added:

“We were delighted to welcome Delyth and Peredur to Wayne and

Tracy’s farm once again.

Farm visits provide a terrific opportunity for politicians to see the realities facing farmers with their own eyes, as well as an opportunity to discuss wider challenges facing the agricultural sector - be it ongoing talks over the Sustainable Farming Scheme, changes to inheritance tax, or transatlantic trade talks.

As the 2026 Senedd election swiftly approaches, we look forward to continuing to lobby politicians to ensure the interests of the farming sector and rural Wales will be at the forefront of the next government’s priorities.”

Get ready for NSA Welsh Sheep 2025

THis year’s NsA Welsh sheep event will take place on May 21. This year, it will be hosted at Tregoyd Farm, near Hay on Wye in the Welsh borders.

Welsh Sheep is an essential flock technical event, combining a great day out with the opportunity to learn, engage and refresh.

NSA Cymru/Wales Event organiser Helen Roberts is looking forward to NSA Welsh Sheep 2025, for what will be the must-see and do event for the Welsh sheep industry in 2025. The event is a showcase for all sectors of the sheep industry and a key date for thousands of people to attend. With hundreds of trade stands, a series of

well-informed seminars, and demonstrations, this event will encompass all aspects of the sheep farming industry.

The theme this year is sustainability, with particular emphasis on improving profitability and rewards for environmental gains. These topics will be key themes at seminars.

There will also be demonstrations, product launches, learning opportunities, competitions, and tractor rides to the higher ground, rising to 1200 feet.

The host family will showcase their High Country Romneys, run on a forage-only system.

The family business is run in partnership by Penny Chantler

and her sons, Sam and Will Sawday.

A Wool Hub will reflect Penny’s passion for wool and her role with British Wool, showcasing innovative products and the sustainability of wool.

In the week before the event, Castell Howell will be working with Powys County Council to serve lamb for local children. Also, the British Army will have a stand this year and will be talking to secondary school pupils.

Many local businesses will be involved and social media influencer Cammy Wilson from The Sheep Game will be doing some pre-event interviews.

Major sponsors for the event are Mayo Healthcare and McCartneys.

Did you know you are 21 times more likely to have a fatal accident working in agriculture than in any other industry?

Last week, the FUW were delighted to support the IOSH North Wales branch event focused on safety in rural industries. The day brought together a range of experts and stakeholders, providing insight into the health and safety challenges within the farming sector.

The reality makes for sobering reading. The period 2023 to 2024 saw 23 people in Great Britain lose their lives in agricultural incidents. While the sector makes up around 1% of the UK’s working population, agriculture still accounts for 17% of all deaths in the workplace. Tragically, the statistics often hide a further tragedy of children killed or injured - with an average of two young children are being killed on UK farms each year.

The cause of such fatalities vary greatly, with falls from height or interactions with livestock accounting for 9% and 13% of fatal injuries by accident type. However, according to the HSE, the leading cause of fatal injuries on farms is moving vehiclesaccounting for 39% of fatal injuries in 2023/2024. A further 9% of fatalities were a result of contact with machinery including entanglement in machinery and PTO shafts.

With incidents involving vehicles and machinery therefore accounting for almost 50% of farm fatalities, the FUW is proud to be supporting Wales Farm Safety Partnerships’ latest campaign

highlighting the risks associated with working with machinery and vehicles on farms.

Ultimately, fatalities and injuries from vehicles and machinery can be prevented with due care and diligence, and as farmers we all have a responsibility to follow simple steps to safeguard ourselves, our families and employees, and the public.

Before using any vehicles or machinery, farmers should undertake regular checks of breaks and other safety-critical items, such as tyres, mirrors and seatbelts. Maintenance is particularly important when using farm machinery, and it’s important to check all necessary guards are in position and in good order. You should only operate a vehicle or machine if trained and competent to do so.

It’s also important that we remain aware of our surroundings and display due diligence when operating vehicles or machinery. Crucially, always keep people and moving vehicles well apart, never carry passengers, be aware of blind-spots, and always wear your seatbelt.

ATVs are a significant cause of on-farm fatalities, and drivers must wear a suitable and approved ATV helmet, never carry passengers, or take risks on uneven or sloping ground which can lead to overturning.

For more information about how keep yourself and others safe on your farm, visit the Wales Farm Safety website:

https:// businesswales.gov. wales/farmingconnect/ business/health-andsafety

mKia introduces AI voice assistant to enhance connectivity and driver experience

kia has announced the rollout of its new, generative Ai-powered voice recognition system, called Ai Assistant, across Europe, following its introduction in the korean and us markets last year.

The AI Assistant transforms the user experience by enabling customers to engage in smooth and natural conversations with their Kia. It also enables them to quickly and easily learn more about their vehicle’s advanced features to make the user experience easier and more convenient.

What are the key advantages of Kia’s AI Assistant?

Kia’s AI Assistant features enhanced intelligence, enabling it to listen to users’ voice commands and queries, providing the information they need. The system understands users’ intent and context, enabling them to converse with the vehicle in a relaxed, natural, and smooth manner.

If a user gives more context and a greater level of detail when asking a question, Kia’s AI Assistant will provide a smarter and more accurate response.

Continual Over-the-Air (OTA) updates will enhance the AI Assistant over time, making the system more intelligent and adding greater functionality, while this OTA technology also allows Kia’s voice recognition system to be upgraded to the latest AI Assistant for EV3s using

the connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system.

How do users engage with Kia’s AI Assistant?

Users can engage with Kia’s AI Assistant by simply pressing the voice recognition button on the car’s steering wheel, or by saying: “Hey Kia.”

What questions can users ask Kia’s AI Assistant?

Users can ask Kia’s AI Assistant virtually anything. They can even start by asking the system exactly what services it can provide, by saying: “Hey Kia, tell me what you can do.”

The services provided by Kia’s AI Assistant go far beyond those offered by previousgeneration voice recognition systems. This technology could, for example, enable users to ask for the location of restaurants selling specific foods.

Now, users can ask Kia’s AI Assistant open-ended questions that can further enhance their

experiences beyond their car, such as:

• “I am going camping tomorrow, what items should I take?”

• “What are the advantages of an EV compared with an ICE car?”

• “I am going to meet a Spanish friend tomorrow –are there any important table manners or customs I should be aware of?”

The possibilities are endless. If driving through an unfamiliar city, users can ask Kia’s AI Assistant where the best place is to park to enjoy the sunset or a night view of the cityscape. They can even ask the AI Assistant to suggest some music to suit a relaxed city vibe.

The more specific conditions the user sets, the more able Kia’s AI Assistant is to provide responses best suited to the

situation. For example, users could say: “Hey Kia, can you tell me why the sky is blue and explain it in a way that a child will understand?” That way, everyone in the car can comprehend and enjoy the answer.

How can Kia’s AI Assistant make driving more convenient?

Drivers can ask Kia’s AI Assistant for help on how to use various in-car features (where fitted) to enjoy a more pleasant and comfortable ride. For example, if the road becomes congested, they can say: “Hey Kia, let me know about any driving assistance systems that can make driving easier in heavy traffic.”

Kia’s AI Assistant can then recommend Highway Driving Assistant (when fitted) to the driver and tell them how to engage it, as well as explaining how it works and how to get the most from the system to make their journey smoother and more relaxing.

Which models will feature Kia’s AI Assistant?

Kia’s AI Assistant has previously been fitted as standard to the Kia K4 in the US and the Kia EV3 in Korea, and it is now being offered on the European-specification EV3. The rollout of AI Assistant will later be expanded to other models fitted with Kia’s ccNC system (currently EV3, EV6, EV9 and Sorento in the UK).

1.2

Maserati focus on Grecale: the new range expands to meet every customer’s desires

Maserati grecale is the leading name in the commercial proposal of the Trident brand, which has decided to broaden the range of its “Everyday Exceptional” suv with updates to the engines, interiors and bodywork, to meet all customer needs.

Passion, innovation, and versatility are the ingredients in the Grecale, which together with the GranTurismo, GranCabrio, MC20, MC20 Cielo and GT2 Stradale, stands as the epitome of Italian luxury “the Maserati way”, expressing the Brand’s DNA devoted to the spirit of grand touring, with the ability to combine performance and elegance in a unique, refined and unparalleled driving experience.

With the update of the Grecale MY25 range, the commercial offering is even broader, as are the dedicated specifications: the launch of the new “Grecale” version, to add to the Modena and Trofeo variants, as well as to the Folgore, with an 100% electric powertrain.

Santo Ficili, Maserati CEO, stated: “ Grecale is a model of fundamental importance for our Brand and for the entire Maserati range. With the SUV, we wanted to expand our commercial offering to meet the needs and desires of our customers, by providing a variety of options that combine performance, elegance and innovation. This approach

reflects our dedication to the consumer to meet and exceed their expectations, ensuring that each of our models epitomises the excellence of Italian luxury: our network is ready to ensure the very best selection, purchasing and assistance experience”.

The new “Grecale” version is exceptional in everyday life thanks to the 300-CV 4-cylinder mild hybrid engine1 and the numerous luxury details in terms of both aesthetics and comfort, including 20” diamond-cut wheel rims, premium leather interior and 12-way heated comfort seats.

Conversely, the Modena version – equipped with a 330-CV (325 hp) 4-cylinder mild hybrid – stands out for its sporty aesthetic orientation, including 21” Diamond wheels, Matrix headlights, limited-slip differential and adaptive suspension. In the meantime, the Trofeo version continues as the most extreme performance-oriented variant, with a 530-CV (525 hp) V6 Nettuno engine. Finally, the Grecale Folgore is the first 100% electric SUV in Maserati history, equipped with a 105-kWh battery with an output of 410 kW.

An increasingly captivating and rich colour palette

Luxury brand positioning means providing the opportunity to choose: Maserati always focuses every decision on the customer and the entire Grecale

range serves as but one example. Precisely for this reason, the colour palette has been renewed and expanded: up to 11 body colours are now available, in addition to the many customisation options offered by the Maserati Fuoriserie Programme, which

includes nine solid and metallic colours (including the new Blu Pastello and Giallo Genio Gloss), thirteen three- and four-layer proposals (including the new Dark Aurora Boreale and Gold Venus) and four matte colours (the latter including Digital Aurora Matte).

Pubs to stay open late for VE Day 80th anniversary

Pubs across England and Wales will be allowed to serve until 1:00am to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in Europe (vE) Day, the Prime Minister has announced.

The extension applies to the evening of Wednesday, May 8, allowing revellers to continue their celebrations into the early hours of Thursday, May 9.

A series of national events are planned to commemorate the end of the Second World War in Europe, including a military parade through central London, an RAF flypast, and the lighting of more than 2,500 beacons across the UK.

Late opening hours for pubs have previously been granted during major national occasions, including Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and England’s matches during the Euro 2024 semi-finals and final.

Speaking ahead of the anniversary, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the whole country should come together to remember the incredible sacrifices made by the wartime generation and to celebrate the peace and freedom they secured for us all.

“Keeping our pubs open

for longer will give people the opportunity to join in celebrations and raise a glass to all of the men and women who served their country, both overseas and at home.”

The commemorations will begin on Monday, May 5, with Union Flags flying at the

Cenotaph in London. A military procession will march from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, followed by an aerial display by the Royal Air Force. On May 8, the BBC will broadcast a celebratory event live from Horse Guards Parade. Michael Kill, chief executive

of the Night Time Industries Association, welcomed the decision. He said: “At such a challenging time for the hospitality sector, allowing businesses to extend their trading hours during these celebrations offers a muchneeded boost while paying tribute to our shared history.”

Ashmole & Co partner marks 30 years with firm

iAN bADHAM, a longstanding partner at Ashmole & Co, is celebrating three decades with the accountancy firm this month.

Ian, who is based in the Haverfordwest, Tenby and Cardigan offices, joined the firm in 1995 as an ACCA Trainee Accountant after graduating with a degree in Accountancy and Finance from Bristol University. A decade later, in 2005, he became a Partner and has since played a key role in developing the firm’s presence in west Wales.

Reflecting on the changes over the past 30 years, Ian said: “When I started, there was just one computer with internet access in the entire office. Everything was paperbased. It’s been incredible to see the shift to a digital office environment.”

Ian lives in Penally, near Tenby, and takes great pride in supporting the next generation of professionals. “As a firm in west Wales employing over 100

staff, it is very rewarding to be able to provide quality jobs for local people. Seeing our staff grow in their careers means a lot to me.”

He added: “Being a first point of contact as a trusted adviser to our clients is a key part of my role. We are here to support them through both good and challenging times. The Covid pandemic was probably the most difficult period in my career, as we worked around the clock helping businesses access support. It was tough, but also one of the most rewarding parts of the job.”

In addition to his work across multiple offices, Ian is also a family man. He and his wife Claire have two sons. Their youngest plays rugby for the Scarlets and Carmarthen Quins, and much of Ian’s spare time is spent travelling Wales to support him. Ian recently became a grandfather and is now also enjoying ‘grandad duties’. When time allows, he enjoys golf, sea

rowing and kayaking around Pembrokeshire.

Ashmole & Co, Chartered Certified Accountants, is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. It is one of the largest accountancy and auditing practices in south Wales, operating from thirteen offices including Swansea, Ammanford and Llandeilo.

The Range to open Haverfordwest store this week

A MAjOR new retail store is set to open in Haverfordwest this week, bringing a fresh option for shoppers and garden enthusiasts alike.

The Range, a popular UK home, leisure, and garden chain, will officially open its new store at Springfield Retail Park on Fishguard Road on Friday (Apr 25). The store has taken over the former Homebase unit, which closed its doors in March last year after a clearance sale emptied its shelves.

The Pembrokeshire store is one of more than 50 former Homebase locations being transformed by The Range’s parent company, CDS (Superstores International), as part of a national expansion. CDS acquired around 70 sites across the UK and Ireland, aiming to safeguard approximately 1,600 jobs following Homebase’s financial collapse.

Customers in Haverfordwest can expect a wide selection of products across homeware, DIY, and seasonal gardening, with the store also boasting a new Homebase-branded garden centre.

The Range has confirmed that the new Haverfordwest branch will be a dog-friendly store, with special offers on opening day including free goody bags for the first 50 customers through the door – and even treats for the first five dogs to visit.

“We’re excited to welcome shoppers to our newest store,” said a spokesperson for The Range. “Come and explore a wide range of products, exclusive offers, and the brand-new Homebase Garden Centre.”

Although social media posts suggest an official opening time of 9:00am on Friday, the store is expected to open its doors slightly earlier at 8:30am. Opening hours for

the weekend are listed as 8:30am to 8:00pm on both Friday and Saturday, and 1:30pm to 4:30pm on Sunday (Apr 27).

Regular hours have yet to be

confirmed, but are expected to be similar to The Range’s Carmarthen store, which opens from 8:00am to 8:00pm Monday to Saturday, and 10:30am to 4:30pm on Sundays.

Preparations underway for Tenby pedestrianisation scheme

PEMbROkEsHiRE COuNTy COuNCiL is once again preparing for the annual Tenby Pedestrianisation scheme.

The scheme is due to start on Monday July 7 and finish on Friday September 12 and run between 11am – 5.30pm each day.

The scheme will again see the Walled Town divided into three zones, each of which will have varying degrees of vehicle access.

Full details of the scheme and the on-line application form will be available from Thursday May 1st on the Council’s website at https://www.pembrokeshire. gov.uk/tenby-pedestrianisation

Residents and business within the Walled Town are encouraged to complete the application process as soon as possible after the documents go live.

This will ensure that there is sufficient time for the application to be processed and additional checks made should further information be required.

Permits will be issued approximately seven to 10 days before the scheme start date.

Please note that paper application forms and guidance notes will no longer be delivered to residents and businesses within the Walled Town and requests for permits will be required to be submitted online.

In order to ensure the ongoing success of the scheme permit holders are encouraged to continue to plan journeys outside of the scheme hours of 11am – 5.30pm as far as is practical.

Email Tenby.pedestrian@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk for further information.

HEALTH

NHS Wales accused of failing over 300,000 patients with hearing loss

RNID report claims ‘systemic discrimination’ is putting lives at risk

A NEW report published this week (April 24) has accused NHS Wales of widespread failings in care for deaf people and those with hearing loss— failings that campaigners say are not only unlawful, but also putting lives at risk.

The report, titled Still Ignored: The Fight for Accessible Healthcare, was compiled by RNID, a leading charity supporting people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus. It highlights what the organisation describes as a “hidden scandal” affecting more than 300,000 adults across Wales.

Despite clear legal duties under the Equality Act 2010 and a decade-old policy framework— the All Wales Standards for Accessible Communication introduced in 2013—the report finds that deaf people are routinely denied the support they need when accessing NHS services.

MissED sTANDARDs, MissED CARE

Among the most alarming findings is that more than 7 in 10 (73%) deaf patients and those with hearing loss say they have never been asked about their communication

needs in a healthcare setting. This is despite it being a basic requirement under equality law.

Almost 1 in 3 (30%) reported being unable to contact their GP in a way that works for them, such as using text or email instead of a phone. More than 2 in 3 (64%) had difficulty knowing when they were being called from a waiting room, and 42% struggled to communicate symptoms or concerns with staff.

iN MORE sERiOus CONsEquENCEs:

• 8% said they had avoided calling an ambulance or attending A&E due to communication barriers.

• 18% said a health condition worsened because of poor communication.

• 11% believe their health was directly put at risk.

FAMiLy As iNTERPRETERs

More than half of deaf patients (56%) said they had to rely on family or friends to relay medical information, often without professional support. 1 in 4 were denied the communication assistance they asked for outright. RNID warns this not only risks miscommunication, but also strips patients of their right to dignity, privacy, and autonomy in healthcare.

The consequences can be devastating. Kate Boddy, a Child of a Deaf Adult (CODA) from Wales, acted as interpreter for her father, Richard Boddy, when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2022.

She told The Herald: “There’s so little out there in BSL. When Dad got his diagnosis, I had to suppress all my emotions just to translate for him. Even though we knew he was going to pass away, I don’t feel like I ever got to say goodbye.”

Mr Boddy died in November 2023, aged 70.

sTAFF AWARENEss LOW

The RNID also surveyed NHS Wales staff and found significant gaps in training and understanding:

• Only 57% knew how to record a patient’s communication needs.

• Fewer than half (48%) knew how to flag those needs in online records.

• Just 17% of staff said they always feel able to meet the communication needs of deaf patients.

Dr Natasha Wilcock, a deaf doctor working in palliative care, said: “Deaf insight training should be compulsory. I’ve met patients who didn’t realise their cancer treatment had ended and that they were receiving end-of-life care. That

level of misunderstanding is unacceptable.”

CALLs FOR uRgENT ACTiON

Polly Winn, RNID’s External Affairs Manager in Wales, said: “It is not acceptable for people to leave medical appointments without understanding their diagnosis, or to be forced to share intimate health details with family because NHS Wales won’t provide interpreters.

“This is systematic discrimination—an equality failure that is putting lives at risk. The situation demands urgent reform.”

RNID is calling on the Welsh Government to:

• Reaffirm and enforce the All Wales Standards for Accessible Communication;

• Introduce robust oversight systems to monitor compliance;

• Mandate deaf awareness training for all NHS staff;

• Ensure people with lived experience help shape future reforms.

A spokesperson for NHS Wales said the organisation is reviewing the findings and remains committed to improving access for all patients.

The Welsh Government has not yet issued a response to the report.

Charitable donations fund ECG machines worth £14,000 for Withybush Hospital

THANks to generous donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities – the official charity of Hywel Dda university Health board – has purchased two new Electrocardiogram (ECg) machines worth over £14,000 for the Emergency Department at Withybush Hospital.

Chest pain is a very common presentation at the Emergency Department which sees between 100 and 130 patients a day. ECG machines provide key information on a patient’s heart by measuring rhythm and electrical activity.

The additional ECG machines will help ensure that patients presenting with chest pain receive an assessment as quickly as possible.

Senior Nurse Manager Josephine Dyer said: “We are so grateful that generous donations from our local community have enabled us to purchase the two ECG machines for the Emergency Department.

“High numbers of patients present with chest pain and require an ECG, so we hope that having the additional machines will reduce waiting times and offer an improved patient experience.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, said: “We are deeply thankful for the generous

support from our local communities which allows us to offer services beyond what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda. Every donation we receive is greatly

appreciated!”

For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www. hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk

Pioneering study examines cold water therapy’s potential to treat PTSD

scientists at swansea university have embarked on a groundbreaking study to examine whether cold water immersion (CWi) therapy can alleviate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTsD).

According to PTSD UK, one in 10 people in the UK is expected to experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Yet despite its prevalence, there has been limited research undertaken into the condition in the UK, and to date, no scientific study has been conducted anywhere in the world that explicitly examines the impact of CWI on PTSD symptoms.

The Swansea University study involves 16 members of the Veterans RV Swansea Community group who have PTSD and take part in cold-water dipping and swimming sessions at Caswell Bay in Gower.

Lead researcher Dr Denise Hill, Associate Professor of Applied Sport Psychology at Swansea University, said: “With at least eight per cent of UK veterans diagnosed with PTSD annually, the condition presents significant economic, personal, and social challenges. While other studies have highlighted the benefits of cold water therapy, ours seeks to establish whether regular cold-water immersion can reduce PTSD symptoms specifically, and serve as an accessible and acceptable supplement to traditional mental health treatments.”

Before the observation period, study participants began self-administering

saliva samples four times a day over two days to measure cortisol levels – an indicator of stress.

After each weekly cold water immersion session, participants complete three post-dip questionnaires assessing their levels of wellbeing, depression, and PTSD symptoms.

Throughout the study, participants periodically repeat the saliva sampling process to track changes in cortisol levels and overall symptomology.

Initial findings from the study show that cold water immersion is positively impacting a number of the PTSD symptoms across the participant group.

Phil Jones, a former Royal Marines Commando who is taking part in the study, said: “For years, I’ve practiced cold-water immersion to support my mental health and overall wellbeing, so I was excited to take part in this study alongside the veterans’ group I support.

“My ultimate goal has always been to help more veterans struggling with PTSD, and it’s been incredible to witness firsthand the physical and mental benefits this practice has had on those new to it. Now, more than ever, I’m eager to see the study’s final results, and I truly hope this research paves the way for new, effective ways to support

thousands of veterans worldwide.”

Dr Hill added: “This study represents an important first step in understanding whether CWI can serve as a complementary therapy for veterans diagnosed with PTSD. If successful, the findings should pave the way for further research, and if cold water immersion is deemed to be effective, the development of new, accessible treatment pathways for those with the condition.

“Given the accessibility and appeal of cold water immersion among veterans, we hope our research will provide valuable insights into its potential as a therapeutic option.”

SMajor housing, play and regeneration projects on the agenda for council cabinet

A WiDE-RANgiNg agenda will be debated by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet on Monday (Apr 28), with major decisions expected on housing development, children’s play provision, education plans, and town regeneration.

Among the most significant items is the proposed construction of 24 new flats at ‘Haven View’, Milford Haven. The scheme, located on Charles Street, includes communal facilities and is aimed at boosting local affordable housing provision.

Also under the spotlight is the Play Sufficiency Assessment, which lays out extensive findings from a county-wide consultation.

The assessment highlights strong demand for improved and accessible play areas, especially

in deprived wards like Milford East and Pembroke Monkton.

The Cabinet is expected to approve a new action plan which includes investing in inclusive play facilities, supporting young carers, and better maintenance of parks and playgrounds.

In education, councillors will discuss a proposal to federate St Florence and Penrhyn Church in Wales schools, aiming to improve management efficiency and maintain sustainability in rural education. The Cabinet will also review a new Welsh in Education Strategic Plan (WESP) and an update to the National Teachers’ Pay Policy for 2024-2025.

A report on Haverfordwest regeneration is also on the table, with schemes designed to breathe new life into the town centre. Linked to this is a discussion on

the freehold transfer of the public toilets on Bryn Road to St Davids City Council, allowing localised management of key community assets.

Environmental policy is set to be a major theme, with councillors to consider the Environmental Services Strategy for 2025-2030, covering waste, biodiversity, and sustainability. Meanwhile, the outcome of the 2025-26 UK Shared Prosperity Fund open call will be presented, showing where grants are to be allocated for local growth projects.

The Cabinet will consider allocating financial support to PACTO, a key organisation that helps deliver community transport services across the county. These services are crucial for rural and isolated communities, helping people

without access to private cars get to medical appointments, shops, and social activities.

The report highlights the importance of ongoing funding to support PACTO’s operations, and the role it plays in reducing social isolation, particularly among the elderly and disabled. The proposal suggests continued financial backing, although the exact figures and terms will be discussed during the session.

The Cabinet will also examine a new Transformation and Innovation Board, intended to drive service improvement across departments, and a report on equality in employment within the council for 2023-2024.

The meeting is being held as a hybrid session and will be streamed live via the council’s webcast portal.

Haverfordwest regeneration boosted by millions in extra funding

COuNCiL secures grants to cover project overruns without increasing taxpayer burden

TWO major regeneration projects in Haverfordwest are set to progress without additional cost to the taxpayer, following Pembrokeshire County Council’s successful acquisition of external funding.

A report scheduled for Cabinet review on Monday (April 28) outlines that the Heart of Pembrokeshire (HoP) and Western Quayside schemes will benefit from new grants, allowing the projects to continue despite unforeseen challenges and increased costs.

The HoP project, with an approved capital budget of £26.27 million, and the Western Quayside scheme, budgeted at £11.62 million, faced combined overruns nearing £4 million. These overruns were primarily due to the deteriorated condition of the historic Gaol building and archaeological constraints. However, additional support from the Welsh Government and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund will cover these costs without increasing the Council’s financial contribution.

sigNiFiCANT

NEW gRANTs sECuRED

The Council has secured an extra £2.7 million from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns

Fund and £1.26 million via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. These funds will facilitate green infrastructure works at Western Quayside and enhance pedestrian links between Haverfordwest Castle and the town centre.

To meet grant requirements and streamline project accounting, some elements initially delivered under the HoP scheme—such as public realm work around the Foundry—will be reallocated to the Western Quayside project.

Further applications are being prepared to secure additional funding from the Transforming Towns programme. If successful, these would support a post-HoP “fit-out” of the castle site, improve town centre wayfinding, and enhance visitor experiences, all without extra cost to the Council.

CAsTLE AND gAOL REsTORATiON sEPARATED

While the HoP scheme is well underway, the Council plans to separate the later-stage restoration of the Gaol and Governor’s House into a distinct project. This £2 million fit-out scheme has already received £368,525 in National Lottery Heritage funding, with further bids in progress. The Council aims to reduce its match funding requirement significantly.

Separating the HoP and the Castle

Fit-out projects within the capital programme is expected to provide clearer financial transparency.

CRiTiCisM OvER PROjECT MANAgEMENT

Despite the financial boost, the Council faces criticism for initiating restoration work on the Gaol without secured funding for its completion. Critics argue that this approach was premature and risky, especially given the building’s deteriorated condition and archaeological complexities. This has raised questions about project management and financial planning.

The broader context includes significant funding cuts to Pembrokeshire County Council, with a reported reduction of over 40% in Shared Prosperity Scheme funding. Such cuts have intensified scrutiny over the Council’s allocation of resources, particularly in light of other pressing needs across the county.

Council Leader Jon Harvey, who succeeded David Simpson in May 2024, has pledged to bring “compassion and transparency” to the role and to work collaboratively with other political groups. However, the decision to proceed with the Gaol’s restoration without secured funding for its completion remains a contentious issue, highlighting the need for transparent and comprehensive financial planning in

public projects.

TWO OPTiONs ON THE TAbLE

Cabinet members will consider two options. The preferred route is to accept the new external funding and reallocate budgets accordingly, delivering the full vision of both regeneration schemes while keeping the Council’s capital contribution unchanged. Pembrokeshire Herald Alternatively, councillors could reduce their capital spending by using the new grants to offset current commitments. However, this would render the HoP project unviable, potentially forcing the permanent closure of Castle Back and risking clawback of up to £17.7 million from UK Government and National Lottery funders.

A separate recommendation would grant senior officers the authority to adjust the budget if further external funding becomes available, provided the Council’s own contribution does not increase.

NO LEgAL OR HR issuEs RAisED

The report confirms there are no legal or human resources concerns linked to the proposed changes. While the Director of Resources supports the plan, they caution that efforts must continue to reduce the Council’s overall borrowing levels.

W ITH ANDREW LYE

ice President

ance said recently that there is a good chance of a uk / us Trade Deal that could be reached within 3 weeks. What progress has been made is not in the public arena and Liberal Democrat Leader, Ed Davey has called on the g overnment to publish its negotiating mandate so we can properly scrutinise this deal, warning that the public has “been left completely in the dark.”

To date, the Government has still failed to commit to a vote in Parliament on the finalised agreement.

Ed Davey said: “A good trade deal with the US could bring huge benefits, but Trump is an unreliable partner who breaks deals whenever he feels like it. He and his sidekick, JD Vance must not be allowed to bully their way into a bad trade deal for the UK.

“It would be deeply undemocratic if Parliament were to be side-lined on such a critical issue for the country. Conservative and Labour MP’s should commit now to voting down any Trump deal that undercuts British farmers and their high food standard, sells out the NHS, or waters down protections for children online.

“The stakes are too high for Parliament to be side-lined and democracy undermined.”

However, Reform Leader Nigel Farage and now Lee Anderson, have

said they would back a trade deal to allow imports of chlorinated chicken to enter the UK from the US. A move that could undercut British farmers.

EFRA (Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) Select Committee Chair, Alistair Carmichael MP (Lib Dem) said he was left “baffled” by Farage’s backing of chlorinated food entering the UK and added it would be foolish for the Government to backtrack on commitments made to safeguard the sector in trade deals.

Lib Dem Rural Affairs Spokesperson, Tim Farron MP said: “US chicken is chlorinated to compensate for the hygiene risk to humans from poor animal welfare standards and that Reform’s approach was throwing British farmers under the bus, to appease President Trump.

“No one in this country wants chlorinated chicken on our supermarket shelves. Farage is more interested in being a salesman for Trump than standing up for Britain and our rural communities.”

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Welsh Conservatives urge review of sex education after ‘choking’ lesson claims

THE WELsH CONsERvATivEs have called for an immediate review of personal, social, health and economic (PsHE) lessons in bridgend, following reports that pupils were taught about sexual practices involving choking.

Natasha Asghar MS, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education, has written to Labour’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, requesting urgent clarification and action. The lessons, she claims, could risk normalising “harmful, misogynistic behaviours” among young people.

Ms Asghar said she was particularly concerned about the message such lessons might send to young girls and warned of the potential influence of violent pornography on youth culture.

“This is a matter of great urgency. Schools should be places of learning, not environments where harmful behaviours are taught or normalised,” she said.

“This is an alarming indication of the cultural shift towards violent and demeaning

acts towards women and young girls being perceived as acceptable. Our education system must actively counter such trends, not contribute to them.”

The Welsh Conservatives have called for Bridgend County Council to work closely with domestic abuse charities, such as Welsh Women’s Aid, and with survivors of abuse, to ensure that sex education lessons are delivered appropriately and sensitively.

“These sensitive and serious topics should be addressed with care and expertise, not reduced to PowerPoint presentations,” Ms Asghar added. She has requested a ministerial statement in the Senedd next week.

CALLs FOR CONTExT AND CLARiTy

The Welsh Government has not yet responded to the claims. It is currently unclear which materials or lesson plans were involved, or whether the lessons were part of approved curriculum guidance.

Sex education in Wales

is now taught under the new Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) framework, which became mandatory in 2022 and aims to provide age-appropriate, inclusive and factual information to pupils across all schools.

Supporters of the new framework say it aims to equip young people with knowledge about consent, respectful relationships and personal safety. Some experts argue that avoiding topics like pornography or rough sex may leave young people unprepared or misinformed.

The Herald understands that some education professionals have defended the inclusion of difficult topics—such as choking or coercive sexual behaviour—when taught responsibly and in ageappropriate ways, as a way of tackling myths, preventing harm and encouraging discussion around consent.

Bridgend County Borough Council has not commented publicly on the matter, but the issue is likely to be raised formally in the Senedd next week.

Parc prison under fire as MP slams abusive staff culture

Welsh Affairs Chair demands answers after Herald exclusive reveals shocking officer messages

THE CHAIR of the Welsh Affairs Committee has demanded urgent answers from the leadership of HMP Parc after a Pembrokeshire Herald exclusive revealed prison officers had shared messages joking about violence and mocking prisoners in language described as “offensive and abusive.”

In a strongly worded letter to both Will Styles, Director of HMP Parc, and Gordon Brockington, Managing Director of G4S Care and Rehabilitation Services, Ruth Jones MP said the revelations—first reported by The Pembrokeshire Herald in March— raise serious questions about the culture at the troubled Bridgend prison.

Our investigation, published on March 29, exposed a series of leaked messages exchanged by Parc staff, some of which joked about excessive force, mocked inmates in distress, and included dehumanising language. The messages painted a disturbing picture of contempt and cynicism within the ranks of prison officers—fueling concerns about systemic issues that go beyond poor management or underfunding.

• Read the original Herald investigation here

“A

sObERiNg REMiNDER”

Jones, who chairs the influential Welsh Affairs Committee, said the messages

were “deeply concerning” and highlighted “demeaning and offensive behaviour towards prisoners.”

“Even if many of these messages are historic, they paint an alarming picture,” she said. “That seventeen Parc inmates died last year remains a sobering reminder of the risks if prisoner safety is not made a priority.”

Her committee is now seeking detailed answers from G4S regarding its staff conduct policies, including guidance on social media use and how violations are dealt with. In her letter, Jones also criticised the Ministry of Justice for supplying a quarterly progress report on Parc that was “so lacking in detail we were unable to publish it.”

“This lack of transparency is deeply unhelpful for the confidence Parc needs to rebuild amongst the local community and the families of the men held at HMP Parc,” she added.

From leaked messages to political fallout

The Pembrokeshire Herald was the first news organisation to publish details of the leaked communications, which included jokes about suicide watch, racial slurs, and bragging about rough treatment of inmates. The story prompted widespread concern and has now formed part of the evidence base for the Committee’s intervention.

The messages came to light shortly before the publication of a damning inspection report from HM Inspectorate of Prisons, which detailed how drugs had been found nearly 900 times in 2024, violence was rife, and 17 men

BLUE VIEW

LAbOuR gOvERNMENT bLOW MiLLiONs ON AgENCy sTAFF

had died—many of them after suspected overdoses involving synthetic opioids like nitazenes.

A CuLTuRE PRObLEM,

NOT

jusT A CRisis

While new director Will Styles has been praised for halting further deaths since his arrival in mid-2024, the message scandal suggests the rot may go deeper than operational failings.

Jones said her committee would raise these concerns directly with the Ministry of Justice. “Safety at Parc prison remains a top priority,” she said. “I plan to meet with the Ministry to discuss how progress is being monitored and what oversight is in place.”

g4s REMAiNs uNDER PREssuRE

A spokesperson for G4S has yet to address the leaked messages specifically but previously told The Herald that the company was “working tirelessly on a comprehensive improvement plan.”

However, with the credibility of that plan now under question, and MPs demanding transparency and accountability, the pressure on G4S and the Ministry of Justice is mounting.

As Ruth Jones warned: “Local communities around Parc, and the families of men held there, must be able to trust that inmates are being treated with dignity.” The Herald will continue to hold those in charge to account—and shine a light on the failures still facing one of Britain’s most troubled prisons.

A Welsh Conservative investigation has uncovered that 16 out of 22 councils in Wales have incurred staggering costs of £78,607,409 on agency staff for supply teachers and teaching assistants during 2023/24. Of the 22 councils, 16 responded to Freedom of Information requests, while six either failed to respond or do not collect this data. Additionally, the Labour Welsh Government does not track this reported spending by local authorities.

There is a teacher recruitment and retention crisis in Wales, with a recent ESTYN report highlighting that there has been a negative impact on education standards due to a decrease in teacher recruitment. Additionally, the ESTYN report also highlighted that a lack of “high-quality teaching” taking place in schools, something that a hefty supply teacher bill will not remedy.

The Welsh

Conservatives argue that the millions spent on supply teaching would be better invested in retaining and recruiting quality teachers for the long term, rather than relying on the short-term fix of turning to supply agencies.

Commenting on the expenditure, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education Natasha Asghar MS, said:

The staggering costs incurred by councils across Wales on agency staff makes it difficult to see any value for money from the taxpayers’ perspective.

“There are currently over 40 supply teaching companies in Wales, which shows the profitability of the industry and is a symptom of the perpetual failure by Labour to fill staff vacancies and improve retention in our schools.

“Rather than wasting millions of taxpayers’ money on agency staff to fill gaps they’ve failed to address, the Labour Welsh Government must urgently deliver a comprehensive recruitment and retention plan.”

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

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

LETTERS & NOTI c ES

PIc TURE OF THE WEEK!

UNDERLYING DESIGN OF THE UNIVERSE

DEAR siR,

great philosophers such as Isaac Newton and others revealed the underlying design of the universe in the 17th and 18th centuries— through the proven truths of science, both cosmological and molecular, and through metaphysical insights into life, love, ethics, and justice.

Yet, these revelations were rejected by Conservatives, who upheld a divisive view of humanity—one that maintained strict class boundaries and forbade interbreeding between so-called divisions of society.

In the 1820s, it was only Conservative peers and MPs who voted in favour of laws that entrenched Black slavery. Under these laws, a baby born to an enslaved woman automatically became the legal property of the slave owner.

It was lawful, even common, to throw ill or dying slaves overboard from Blackbirder ships into the Atlantic Ocean.

Such acts stand in direct conflict with the ethical truths Newton and his contemporaries uncovered—truths that pointed toward justice, equality, and the dignity of all life.

When slavery was finally abolished in 1833, the Whig government had to bribe Conservative slave-owners with £20 million of public money just to secure their non-opposition in Parliament.

Any remaining slave-owner, regardless of title or status, thereafter became a criminal in the eyes of the law.

At no point in the two centuries since have the Conservatives shown remorse for their actions. They have never fully embraced the ethical or social values that underpin modern society. Instead, they have leaned on deliberate historical distortion, painting over past injustices to manipulate successive

generations—shaping young minds into accepting the same divisive, harmful beliefs that justified oppression in 1825 and threaten to resurface in 2025.

yours sincerely,

C N Westerman

WESTERN GATEWAY PROJECT

DEAR siR,

Labour’s decision to cut funding to the Western gateway project is a bitter blow to south Wales.

This cross-border initiative was designed to strengthen economic and transport links between South Wales and the West of England—particularly between Cardiff, Newport and Bristol. It promised to boost growth, improve connectivity, and create better jobs for our communities.

Instead, we are now left with yet another example of misplaced priorities. As Andrew RT Davies MS rightly said, people in South Wales don’t want more constitutional tinkering—they want better wages, better connections, and a better future.

By withdrawing support from this vital infrastructure programme, Labour is turning its back on the people it claims to represent. Our economy looks naturally eastward, and it is baffling that a government supposedly committed to reducing inequality would block progress in one of the few areas with the potential to genuinely uplift living standards across our region.

If we want to see South Wales thrive, we need investment in the basics—like rail, roads, and jobs. The Western Gateway was a step in the right direction. Cutting it off at the knees is a step backwards.

Martin James

Tenby by alex maThias

Death Notices

M ILDRED W HITLAND J ONES

Peacefully on Thursday,3rd April at Waungron Nursing Home, Whitland, Mildred, formerly of St George’s Avenue, Velfrey Road, Whitland.

Beloved wife of the late David, dear aunt to all nephews and nieces.

Funeral Service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, on Wednesday 30th April at 12.15pm.

Family flowers only. Donations if so desired towards Alzheimers Society, received by Ken Davies & Sons, Funeral Directors, Clunderwen. Tel 01437 563319

A NN TAYLOR N é E T UFTON

Peacefully at her home on Wednesday 9th April, Ann of Tufton.

Beloved wife of Gerald.

Funeral service on Monday 28th April at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 4pm.

Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Alzheimer’s Research UK’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB.

HARRIS D OROTHY I RENE ( N é E DAVIES )

Peacefully on April 4th 2025 at Withybush General Hospital after a very short illness, Dorothy Irene Harris from Pembroke (formerly of Haverfordwest) Aged 88 years

Beloved wife of the late Stan, mother of Diane & Stuart. Sister of Philip & Sister in law of Jeanette. Mother in law of Jon & Riccardo. Grandmother of Harriet & Aaron & Great Grandmother of Owen & Elsie.

The funeral service will take place on Tuesday 29th April, 1:45pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Further enquiries to Jon Roberts & Son. 01646 683115

SERVIcES

CARAVANS

CAR PARTS

CARPENTRY

CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHY

CLEARANCES

ELECTRICAL

FENCING, DRIVEWAYS AND LANDSCAPING FABRICATION

GARDENING

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

PODIATRY

SCRAP METAL

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

STORAGE TANKS

SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE

TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTERS

TRAILERS

VAN CONVERSIONS WINDOWS

RUgBY

Narberth deliver when it matters to keep survival hopes alive

NARbERTH 29 – CROss kEys 17

NARbERTH kept their Premiership survival hopes alive with a crucial 29-17 victory over Cross keys at the Lewis Lloyd ground — producing one of their most composed performances of the season when it mattered most.

Having lost the reverse fixture earlier in the campaign, Narberth knew only a win would do — and they delivered under pressure.

From the outset, the home side played with intensity, meeting their larger opponents head-on. A surging break from Dean James set the tone, and relentless forward pressure was rewarded when Sam Martin crashed over for the opening try.

Cross Keys hit back quickly through a textbook drive, with No. 8 Cory Nicholls dotting down. But Narberth responded in style — a searing counterattack saw Hedd Nicholas break through midfield and feed scrum-half Lewys Gibby, who raced clear to score. Jon Rogers converted to restore the lead.

The visitors weren’t done, however, and levelled the match after a wellexecuted lineout allowed second row John Verrier to power over, with Ben Murphy adding the extras.

Crucially, Narberth regained the advantage just before the break. Centre Llew Jones — later named Man of the Match — found space out wide and

sliced through the defence to make it 1712 at half-time.

The second half belonged to the Bluebirds. With their pack dominant and backs full of intent, Will Blackburn secured the bonus-point try before Hedd Nicholas crossed for another. Rogers was again on target with the boot.

Cross Keys had the final say with a late score from replacement Tom

Burnham, but the result was beyond doubt.

Narberth now face one final hurdle — a must-win home tie against alreadyrelegated Newcastle Emlyn. Victory there, and a favourable result elsewhere, could yet complete a remarkable escape.

NARbERTH squAD:

Replacements:

Crymych battle bravely in high-scoring clash with leaders

CRyMyCH 28 – TATA sTEEL 36

CRyMyCH gave league leaders Tata steel a real scare in a thrilling Championship contest that showcased the hosts’ fighting spirit — even if they left empty-handed.

The Preseli side started strongly, with centre Ifan Phillips bursting through for a well-worked try, converted by Elis Thomas.

But Tata responded with power and precision, their dominant forwards laying the platform for four unanswered tries before the break. The visitors went in at half-time 26-7 up, with a bonus point secured.

To their credit, Crymych came out firing. Winger Rhodri George finished a sweeping move soon after the restart, and Thomas added the extras to narrow the gap.

Tata remained clinical, stretching their lead with a further 10 points. Yet Crymych refused to lie down — Phillips

grabbed his second of the afternoon before No. 8 Osian Davies rounded off a powerful surge, aided by Tom Taylor and Jon Hill. Thomas converted both to bring the score to 36-28.

With just minutes remaining, Crymych pushed for a losing bonus point — but a late Tata try denied them that small reward.

Still, the performance offered real positives, and Crymych now have time to regroup before the final stretch of the season. Replicate this level of intensity, and survival remains firmly within reach.

Crymych squad:

Adam Phillips; Rhodri George, Tomos Lewis, Ifan Phillips, Hedd George; Elis Thomas, Dafydd Phillips; Gruff Williams, Lee Griffiths, Ben Cox; Matthew Freebury, Llyr Davies; Tom Taylor, Jon Hill, Osian Davies.

Replacements: Lloyd Davies, Rhys Davies, Sion Wilson, Ianto Davies, Jac Griffiths.

Ashley Sutton; Rhys Harris, Llew Jones, Hedd Nicholas, Dean James; Jon Rogers, Lewys Gibby; Rob Evans, Kyle Hamer, Tom Kaijaks; Will Blackburn, Sam Martin; Caleb Salmon, Tom Powell (C), Roy Osborn.

Ricky Guest, Ryan Rees, George Rossiter, Rhys Williams, Josh Hamer, Alex Williams, Osian Evans, Harrison Griffiths.

SPORT

IRELAND CRUSH WALES

WALEs’ search for a first win in this year’s Women’s six Nations continues after a tough afternoon at Rodney Parade saw them fall 40-14 to a dominant Ireland side.

Despite a strong start and an early try from Carys Cox, the home team quickly lost control of the match as Ireland ran in six tries – two apiece from Linda Djougang, Aoife Wafer, and Dorothy Wall.

A second-half score from late squad addition Hannah Bluck gave Wales a glimmer of hope, but it was little more than consolation in front of a record crowd of 3,568 at the Newport venue.

Ireland’s forwards proved too powerful throughout, and Wales’ defensive frailties were exposed time and again. The defeat marks Wales’ fourth consecutive loss of the tournament, and they now face a must-win match against Italy to avoid finishing bottom of the table for a second straight year.

Wales began with purpose, with stand-in fullback Lleucu George causing problems early. Her clever kick down the flank forced an error from Ireland’s AmeeLeigh Costigan, allowing Cox to dive on the loose ball for the opening try.

But Ireland soon found their rhythm,

capitalising on soft tackling and set-piece pressure. Djougang muscled over after a burst from Wafer, who soon added one of her own as the visitors took control.

Even a yellow card for Ireland flyhalf Dannah O’Brien – shown a card for dangerous contact – did little to help Wales. The Irish maintained their dominance with Wall crossing just before half-time to put them 21-7 ahead.

Ireland continued their charge in the second half, with Wall securing the bonus point shortly after the restart. While Cox and Jasmine Joyce-Butchers tried to spark a response, handling errors and turnovers repeatedly derailed Welsh attacks.

Bluck’s try, created by strong carries from Carys Phillips and a sharp offload from Keira Bevan, gave fans something to cheer. But Wafer had the last word, bulldozing her way over from the base of the scrum to seal the win.

Ireland now look to cement third place when they face Scotland, while Wales have one last chance to salvage their campaign when they travel to face Italy.

After the match, head coach Sean Lynn admitted the performance was painful: “It hurts. We all feel it. We had

moments where we were right in it – we could have gone 14-0 up – but didn’t take our chances. That’s the difference at this level.”

Ireland’s Aoife Wafer reflected on the team’s spirit: “We talk about being the most connected team in the world. That shows in how we play – not just the 23 here, but the girls back home too. Winning away is never easy, so we’re proud of this.”

WALEs TEAM: Joyce-Butchers; Neumann, Jones (capt), Keight, Cox; George, Bevan; G. Pyrs, K. Jones, Scoble, Fleming, Evans, K. Williams, Lewis, Callender.

Replacements: C. Phillips, Davies, Rose, John, A. Pyrs, S. Jones, Bluck, Richards.

iRELAND TEAM: Flood; McGann, Dalton, Breen, Amee-Leigh; O’Brien, Scuffil-McCabe; McCarthy, N. Jones, Djougang, Campbell, Wall, Hogan, McMahon (capt), Wafer. Replacements: Moloney, McGrath, Haney, Tuite, Boles, Lane, Higgins, Elmes Kinlan.

Massive weekend for Welsh football

THis WEEkEND is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in modern Welsh football history.

From the summit of the English football pyramid to its nervy lower tiers, Welsh players and clubs are right at the heart of the drama. While Wrexham AFC chase a historic promotion to the Championship and Cardiff City fight desperately to avoid the drop, Leeds United have already secured their return to the Premier League — powered in no small part by a core of talented Welsh internationals.

Wrexham’s Hollywood dream on the brink of the Championship

Wrexham AFC’s fairytale continues. Backed by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the club is one step away from reaching the EFL Championship. Sitting third in League One and just a point behind second-placed Wycombe Wanderers, Wrexham are in the thick of the promotion battle with two crucial fixtures remaining.

Promotion would complete an astonishing rise for the club, marking three promotions in four years and a return to the Championship for the first time in more

than two decades.

Cardiff City staring down the trapdoor

Cardiff City, meanwhile, face a tense fight for Championship survival. The Bluebirds are currently 23rd, one point from safety, and recently sacked manager Omer Riza following a poor run of results and growing unrest among fans. Wales legend Aaron Ramsey has stepped in as interim manager, hoping to steer the club clear of relegation with just three games left to play.

The fixtures ahead — starting with a do-or-die match against Oxford United — will determine whether Cardiff can stay up or fall into League One for the first time in over 20 years.

Leeds United soar to the Premier League powered by Welsh talent

Amid all the uncertainty elsewhere, Leeds United have already secured automatic promotion to the Premier League — and Welsh football fans have every reason to celebrate.

A number of key Welsh internationals have played pivotal roles in Leeds’ impressive campaign. Among

them:

Ethan Ampadu: The versatile midfielder has been a rock at the heart of Leeds’ side, bringing leadership and steel.

Dan james: The winger’s pace and creativity have caused havoc for opposition defences all season.

joe Rodon: On loan from Tottenham, the commanding centre-back has been a cornerstone of Leeds’ defensive success.

Connor Roberts: Providing width and experience from full-back, Roberts has been vital in both defence and attack.

Their contributions have not only helped propel Leeds back to the Premier League but have also showcased the strength and depth of Welsh football talent at the highest level. This return to top-flight football marks a major milestone, not just for the club but also for Wales’ national team setup, with so many players now back in the Premier League spotlight.

Fishguard set to host Wales Triathlon as road closures announced

FisHguARD is preparing to welcome hundreds of athletes this summer as the Wales Triathlon returns to the town on sunday, 15 June.

The popular sporting event, organised by Activity Wales Events, will once again transform the coastal community into a hub of high-energy competition and activity.

The triathlon begins with a two-lap sea swim in the picturesque Fishguard Bay, followed by a two-lap cycle route stretching from Fishguard to St Davids. The event concludes with a four-lap run along the scenic Marine Walk and out

onto the breakwater.

To facilitate the cycling leg, which takes place on closed roads, a number of significant road closures will be in effect throughout the day. The A487 between Goodwick and Mathry will be closed from 9:45am to 3:00pm. From Mathry to Croesgoch, the closure will run from 10:00am to 3:00pm, and from

Croesgoch to St Davids, the road will be closed from 10:00am until 2:45pm.

Crossing points will be operational at key junctions including Mathry crossroads, Croesgoch crossroads, and the Llangoffan to Granston junction. Diversions will be clearly marked, with local traffic redirected along minor B roads. For those travelling longer distances, routes via Haverfordwest are advised.

In the town centre, West Street in Fishguard will be closed between 12:00pm and 6:00pm to accommodate the running section of the event. Despite this, residents will still be able to exit via

side roads, and diversion routes will be signposted to help maintain access.

In Goodwick, the Tesco roundabout will remain open throughout the day, ensuring that residents can enter and exit the town without difficulty.

Care workers needing to visit clients within the closed-off areas will be granted access, provided they obtain a valid course pass from their organisation ahead of the event. On the day, carers must follow the direction of the race, keep hazard lights on at all times, clearly display their pass, and exit the course as soon as it is safe to do so.

FOOTBALL

Last-gasp Luby screamer sends Hakin back to the big stage

A TH u NDERO us strike deep into stoppage time from Leon Luby sent Hakin u nited back to

the West Wales Cup final — and back to the Swansea.com Stadium — just two years after their last

appearance.

The semi-final at Stebonheath Park had been a cagey, hard-fought affair, with both sides struggling to break the deadlock. But with the game heading for penalties, substitute Luby produced a moment of magic to settle it.

Collecting a pass from Liam Parks on the left flank, Luby beat his marker, cut inside and unleashed a curling right-footed effort that soared past Jack Williams and into the far corner. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Hakin players and fans alike.

The dramatic win sets up an allPembrokeshire final — the first since 2019 — with Monkton Swifts or Tenby United waiting in the wings.

CAGEY CONTEST, FLASHES OF BRILLIANCE

The match was high on tension but low on clear-cut chances, especially early on. Hakin, fresh from lifting the Senior Cup, nearly struck within 90 seconds as Parks capitalised on a defensive lapse, only to see his shot well saved by Williams.

St Joseph’s danger man, Kyle Copp — who has racked up 40 league goals this season — almost broke the deadlock with a spectacular 30-yard lob that forced Gareth Fawcett to tip over. Copp then turned provider, threading a perfect ball through to Rikki Hayden, but again Fawcett was

alert and made the block.

Ryan Wilson had two golden chances for Hakin, the best coming just before half-time, but Williams stood firm to deny him on both occasions.

TACTICAL TWEAKS, LATE DRAMA

Copp continued to be a menace after the break, weaving past defenders and narrowly missing the target. But it was Hakin boss Scott Davies who changed the course of the game with a trio of substitutions. Camron Thomas, Ashley Bevan and, crucially, Luby added energy and purpose to the Vikings’ attack.

Bevan thought he’d given Hakin the lead with a header from Thomas’ pinpoint delivery — only for the linesman’s flag to deny him. Parks then saw another effort spectacularly saved by Williams as the match swung from end to end.

St Joseph’s had a goal ruled out for offside and Bevan missed a one-on-one chance in the dying minutes. It looked like extra-time was inevitable.

But in the 93rd minute, Luby had other ideas.

RESOLUTE TO THE END

Even after the goal, Hakin had to dig deep. A late St Joseph’s corner caused chaos in the box, but Jake Merry threw his body on the line to make a crucial block and preserve the clean sheet.

Now, Hakin United are just one win away from glory — and from ending a 20-year wait since their last West Wales Cup triumph in 2004.

HAKIN UNITED:

Fawcett, Merry, Power, Aldred, King (Thomas 51), Nicholson (Jones 72), Wilson (Bevan 56), Britton, Parks, Kilby, Walsh (Luby 61).

UNUSED: Devonald.

ST JOSEPH’S: Williams, Lloyd-Evans, J. Evans (Morgan 94), R. Jones, Symmons (Price 94), Frost (Pelosi 63), Brown (A. Jones 77), Kerr, Owen, Hayden (Griffiths 79), Copp.

OFFICIALS: Referee – Ben Williams Assistants – Martin Oliver & Adam Bray

mANDERWOOD PEmBROKESHIRE LEAgUE

Massive weekend for Welsh football