A CHOICE OF THREE MEATS, VEGETABLES, PIGS IN BLANKETS, YORKSHIRE PUDDINGS, MASH POTATO, STUFFING, CRACKLING, ROAST POTATOES & A CHOICE OF GRAVY AND SAUCES
A MILFORD HAVEN
resident has been handed a hefty fine of almost £4,000 after consistently failing to adhere to a noise abatement notice issued due to her excessively loud music.
Ms. Gemma Hughes, 27, formerly of 10 Howarth Close, repeatedly disregarded requests from Pembrokeshire County Council to moderate the volume of her music. The nature of her living situation, occupying one unit in a block of four flats, amplified the issue, causing significant disturbance to neighbouring residents.
Alys Williams, legal counsel for Pembrokeshire County Council, noted: “The music often permeated the neighbouring flats, causing considerable inconvenience. Moreover, the music was frequently played during anti-social hours.”
Ms. Hughes was scheduled to present her case before the Haverfordwest magistrates, having contested two charges related to the contravention of the noise abatement notice. However, a lastminute call from her husband informed the court of her inability to attend due to a migraine. The absence of any medical verification led the magistrates to move forward with the proceedings in her absence.
Public health officer, Steve Morbey, recounted
the series of complaints received concerning the disruptive noise from Ms. Hughes’ residence. “Over a significant period, we fielded numerous complaints which culminated in the issuance of the abatement notice, urging her to address the noise levels,” Morbey stated. “Regrettably, this seemed to have minimal impact.”
Supporting the claims, police officer Matthew Davies spoke about an incident from May 22, 2022. He recalled, “Upon my arrival around 12.30am, the music was audibly emanating from the flat. Ms. Hughes requested to continue
playing a particular song she favoured when asked to reduce the volume. Even from a distance of 15 metres, the music remained distinctly audible.”
A subsequent incident the following month, recounted by police officer Skone from Pembroke Dock, added to the mounting evidence against Ms. Hughes. Skone stated, “Shortly after midnight, we received yet another complaint. The overpowering music from Ms. Hughes’ flat was evident even in the communal hallway.”
Given the weight of the evidence, the magistrates adjudged Ms. Hughes guilty on both counts. The consequent penalties amounted to £3,979.75, including £1,320 in fines, £2,525.75 in prosecution costs payable to Pembrokeshire County Council, and a £132 statutory surcharge.
TOBY PRICE has conceded to defrauding a customer, causing a loss of £5,300 by replacing just one roof tile and performing unwarranted work on a chimney stack.
Price confessed to four instances of fraud and a single charge of engaging in a misleading commercial practice due to omission. However, he contested an additional fraud charge, an accusation of fraudulent trading, a charge of contravening professional diligence in unfair commercial practice, and an offence of engaging in a deceptive commercial
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailactivity.
All these charges were raised by a single complainant from Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest and are linked to incidents that took place last June and July.
At that time, Price was operating under the brand ‘Best Price Roofing Services’.
The prosecution, led by Christian Jowett, stated that the complainant had endured a total financial loss of £5,300. The charges included an exorbitant £800 for the mere refitting of a roof tile
and an outrageous £4,500 for superfluous chimney stack work.
Jowett confirmed that the court would accept Price’s guilty pleas, and there would be no pursuit of a trial concerning the outstanding four charges.
Judge Huw Rees has postponed the case,
RESIDENTS of a Pembrokeshire street have bagged a generous prize in the People’s Postcode Lottery.
Those with a lottery ticket and a SA66 7TP postcode were awarded a £1,000 win in one of the fundraising lottery’s daily prize draws.
The winning postcode belongs to the People’s Postcode Lottery players who live in the Maenclochog area of Pembrokeshire.
Subscriptions to the postcode lottery supports a range of charities across the UK.
A minimum of 33 per cent of the ticket prices goes to charity.
The People’s Postcode Lottery manages lotteries for 20 charities, with each one having one draw a month.
The lottery is hugely popular nationally and supports “a wide range of charities and good causes across Britain and around the world”.
To date, they’ve generously provided more than £1.1 Billion in funding which is helping thousands of organisations and projects.
A TENBY resident has been handed a three-year driving ban after being found guilty of drug driving near Neyland in October of the previous year.
John Timmis, aged 36, residing at The Glebe, was apprehended while driving a Vauxhall Tigra along the A477 in Honeyborough on October 30, 2022.
Upon examination by the authorities, Timmis was found to have 20 micrograms of cocaine per litre of blood, double the permissible limit set at 10µg/L to
rule out accidental exposure. Additionally, he had 591µg/L of benzoylecgonine in his system, a primary cocaine metabolite. This is vastly above the legal limit of 50µg/L.
While Timmis initially pleaded not guilty to two counts of drug driving at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court, he was convicted on both charges on August 24.
Along with the driving ban, he was penalised with a £180 fine and has been mandated to pay court costs amounting to £620 and a surcharge of £72.
pending the creation of a pre-sentence report. Price, a resident of Broadmoor near Kilgetty, is scheduled for sentencing on October 10th.
Though Judge Rees permitted Price bail, he cautioned him, stating that “all sentencing options remain on the table”.
HYWEL DDA UHB will make a series of swingeing cuts to tackle a massive overspend in the current financial year.
In a message sent to a private staff noticeboard, Chief Executive Steve Moore outlined the financial crisis gripping the Board.
The Herald received a copy of Mr Moore’s message shortly after it appeared online.
Its content is stark and disturbing.
It follows the announcement of ward closures at Withybush because of major structural problems and amid a consultation on the provision of paediatric care at Withybush.
At the turn of this
year, The Health Board also had a maintenance backlog of £106m.
The Board PLANNED for a £112.9m overspend.
It is on track to exceed even that nine-figure projection five months into the financial year.
To tackle the situation, the Board plans cuts to recruitment, training, and agency staff numbers.
The message also outlines the Board’s struggle to reconcile its efforts to provide safe, good-quality patient care with the Welsh Government’s politically
driven effort to drive down waiting times.
Mr Moore explains that continuing pressures following the Covid pandemic, which made Wales’s already dreadful NHS waiting lists even longer, and prolonged inflation (effectively running at 23%+ for public services) have combined to squeeze every aspect of the Board’s budget.
The Board is no stranger to overspending, deficits, and financial troubles. However, its problems this year can only get worse.
The Welsh Government must make in-year savings on its hopelessly overcommitted budget. The single largest element of that budget is health
spending.
Health Minister Eluned Morgan has already signalled the Health budget will be cut. Those cuts will affect all Health Boards, including Hywel Dda, making balancing the books even more difficult. It also raises questions about service delivery and the Welsh Government’s ever-moving and neverhit performance targets. Especially the politically charged waiting time target.
Suppose the Board planned an overspend of almost £113m. In that case, it is doubtful it can continue to deliver services effectively with a reduced budget.
In his message to staff, Mr Moore said the Board had: “[S]ought to balance the quality and safety of our services with the need to improve our waiting times.”
Those words imply concentrating on waiting times will reduce the quality and safety of patient care. If a balance must be struck, that suggests a risk that concentrating on one will affect the outcomes of the other.
That cannot possibly be the Welsh Government’s intention. However, Mr Moore’s words to staff undoubtedly lead to the conclusion that concentrating on waiting lists will damage patient care.
In a statement to the Pembrokeshire Herald, Mr Moore said: “There will be no compromises on safety or care quality.”
Taking Mr Moore at his word indicates that the Board regards the waiting time target as a lower priority than delivering patient care.
A complicating factor for the Board is its reliance on agency staff. Every Welsh Health Board - and Wales is not alone - faces spiralling costs to make up shortages in frontline roles with agency staff. Repeated recruitment initiatives and incentives have barely scratched the problem’s surface.
Agency staff earn more than their directly employed colleagues and can choose when and where to accept shifts.
To tackle the problem of agency staff spending, Hywel Dda UHB will “taper” its use of agency staff.
While that will save it money, it comes with other problems.
The Welsh NHS lacks enough directly employed clinical staff to meet patient demand and hit treatment targets set by Welsh Government Ministers and their advisory quangos.
The staff shortage is not new. Despite Mark Drakeford’s repeated claims that the Welsh NHS employs more staff than ever, his claims depend on counting parttime and non-clinical staff as part of the overall figure and are considerably less than the truth.
Suppose the Health Board reduces its agency staff. In that case, it will increase the pressure on an already over-stretched workforce to deliver good quality and safe care while meeting the Welsh Government’s waiting list targets.
Something will have to give somewhere. Waiting time targets will likely be sacrificed if the Board holds to its Chief Executive’s assurances.
That would be a major embarrassment for the Welsh Government, as it used Hywel Dda as an example of good practice in reducing waiting times and addressing the needs of patients on waiting lists.
Steven Moore told staff of the decision to cut agency staff: “Our use of agency staff will start tapering immediately.”
He continued to say that the Board would review its spending on its current supplier agreements.
It will also halt funding training for all but those courses essential for continuing professional development. Spending on attending conferences will be limited.
ALL
SPEAKING TO THE HERALD
Steven Moore told The Herald:” “Patient safety and delivering high-quality care are fundamental to the work of our highly trained and professional workforce.
“Hywel Dda University Health Board is making every effort to meet waiting time targets. This remains a focus despite the challenges of the current financial climate. Energy costs have increased significantly, and we are experiencing very significant inflationary pressures in our supplies, the medication we use, and our high use of agency staff.
“Agency staff are extremely expensive but also make it more challenging to provide continuity of care to patients. This is not a sustainable position for the health board.
“We want to invest in delivering excellent patient care through our permanent workforce and our dedicated team of volunteers. This is why we plan for a sustainable reduction in agency use and the eventual removal of all agency contracts where it is safe.
“This is a big challenge for the health board, and we are working hard to minimise its impact. We have processes to monitor our waiting times regularly and take action where necessary to respond.
“We will continue working hard to deliver services for our patients.
“There will be no
compromises on safety or care quality.
“The operating environment in the NHS throughout the UK is extremely difficult, and we are off target for our planned overspend this year of £112.9m. We must act now to get back on track and meet our commitments to Welsh Government.”
Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MS Samuel Kurtz said: “This is deeply concerning, and I sincerely hope that patient safety isn’t being, and hasn’t been, jeopardised in the pursuit of chasing Welsh Government targets.
“The Welsh Government in Cardiff are the only government to have cut NHS spending, not just once, but twice. Whilst inflationary pressure has naturally caused challenges, the Welsh Government’s mismanagement of our NHS in Wales is a key factor in the financial challenges.
“I commend the hard work of all NHS staff and thank them for their efforts and only wish the Welsh Government would resource them properly, rather than prioritise the funding of pet projects over our NHS, its staff and patients.”
The dividing line Mr Kurtz draws is likely to be the subject of fierce debate in the Senedd when the Welsh Parliament returns from its summer recess.
Labour sources did not respond when presented with Mr Moore’s message.
Sam Kurtz’s Senedd
colleague Paul Davies suggested that the Conservatives want the Welsh Government to consider its priorities before cutting health spending.
Mr Davies told The Herald: “This is very worrying news for the constituents I represent. I am already seeing an increase in the number of people contacting me because of the delays in receiving appointments in various specialities. With the Health Board now looking to save “at least £30 million” this year, I am very concerned that this will worsen the current situation, and patients will suffer.
“The Welsh Labour Government needs to focus its spending on the things that really matter to people, such as health and education. They must scrap their plans to expand the Senedd, ditch the 20mph speed limit rollout and prioritise health spending.”
As the Welsh Government ponders cuts to departmental budgets, and with NHS funding flagged as at risk by Health Minister Eluned Morgan, the Welsh Government faces the challenge of improving performance with less money.
In the Hywel Dda UHB area, 45.6% of patients referred for suspected cancer and treatment were not seen within the 62-day target period.
The statistics, whose presentation has changed since last month, also show the Hywel Dda UHB area lagging behind
the Welsh average on “red-call” ambulance waiting times. Red calls are for immediately lifethreatening conditions, and the target is for 75% to be reached within eight minutes.
Since its introduction, the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust has never hit the 75% target.
Ambulance performance in the Hywel Dda UHB area has almost always lagged behind the Welsh average because of the Board’s extensive rural area and poor road infrastructure. Only 51.2% of red calls in the Hywel Dda UHB area were reached within the eight-minute target in July.
A UK General Election is due next year, and the Welsh Government’s performance will likely become a political football during the campaign. Chronic poor NHS performance has nothing to do with staff’s dedication, commitment or professionalism and everything to do with Cardiff Bay’s government through aspirational announcements and piecemeal funding. A lack of capital funding, cuts to services and local issues could affect Labour’s electoral hopes in new or marginal constituencies. Of which the new Mid and South Pembrokeshire seat is one.
At the outset of his campaign for the new seat, Labour candidate Henry Tufnell made much of talking with Regional MS and Health Minister Eluned Morgan about issues affecting the local NHS. That now appears more of a hostage to fortune than ever.
A POLICE officer driving a van that followed two teenage boys on an electric bike shortly before it was involved in a fatal crash, prompting a riot in Cardiff, is being criminally investigated for dangerous driving.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been examining whether the marked van was chasing Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, who were killed moments after CCTV footage caught the police vehicle just behind the bike.
Both the driver and the passenger in the police van had previously been served with a gross misconduct notice, notifying them their conduct was under investigation.
The IOPC said on Thursday: “The driver of the police van has now been informed they are being criminally investigated for dangerous driving … A decision over potential disciplinary proceedings and any
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailreferral to the Crown Prosecution Service, will be made at the end of the investigation.
“It should be stressed that the serving of notices and the criminal letter do not necessarily mean that disciplinary or criminal proceedings will follow.”
In the hours after the riot in the Ely area of Cardiff in May, the South Wales police and crime commissioner, Alun Michael, claimed the riot was provoked by false rumours of a police chase.
It was only after the Guardian, other media organisations and family members of the boys tracked down CCTV footage showing the police van shortly before the crash that the force admitted its officers had been following them – but said the van was not in the road when the boys came off the bike. The emergence of the footage led to the IOPC beginning its investigation.
The IOPC said:
“Our independent investigation, which began three months ago, is looking at the nature of the police interaction with the boys before the collision and how appropriate the officers’ decisions and actions were. A key consideration is whether there was any point at which the officers’ decisions and actions in the police van constituted
a pursuit.
“We have completed all our inquiries in the area and obtained a number of statements from local residents. IOPC investigators continue to examine hundreds of video clips that we have gathered as a result of our house-to-house inquiries at properties in Ely. In addition to these lines of enquiry,
we have reviewed bodyworn video from officers who attended the scene and we have taken statements from relevant police officers and staff.”
David Ford, the IOPC regional director, said: “Our thoughts and sympathies remain with the family and friends of Kyrees and Harvey and everyone impacted by the tragic loss of two young
lives in Ely.
“We would still encourage anyone who believes they have useful information to come forward to us. We are continuing to engage with local community leaders and elected officials to provide updates on our investigation. We remain committed to establishing the facts of what happened.”
NATURAL RESOURCES WALES has issued an urgent flood alert for the Pembrokeshire coast, extending from St Dogmaels in Cardigan to Amroth. The alert comes as high tides, strong winds, and significant wave heights are anticipated, elevating the risk of flooding around high tide times.
Residents and visitors in the affected areas are advised to be vigilant from Thursday afternoon, 31st September, through to Saturday morning, 2nd October. The most acute tidal surges are expected on Thursday and Friday evenings.
Low-lying lands and roads are particularly vulnerable during this period. The public is urged to exercise caution near beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths, roads, and lands close to estuaries. The force of sea spray and waves during these times may pose
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailserious dangers.
Natural Resources Wales will be closely monitoring the situation. Individuals are encouraged to stay updated by checking the ‘River Levels, Rainfall and Sea Data’ feature on the organisation’s website. Further Information and Recommendations
• For real-time flood warnings, river and sea levels, or the 5-day flood risk forecast, visit Natural Resources Wales’ official flood-warning page.
• For immediate assistance or queries, reach out to Floodline at 0345 988 1188, with the quickdial code: 503013.
• For prompt updates, follow @NatResWales and #floodaware on Twitter and tune into
local television and radio broadcasts for weather, news, and travel bulletins.
Residents are also being advised to:
• Stay updated with local water levels
and meteorological conditions.
• Have a flood plan and be ready to act on it.
• Relocate cars and other vehicles to elevated grounds when safe.
• Assemble a flood kit consisting of
essentials such as a torch, mobile phone with a charger, warm clothing, insurance paperwork, water, food, a first aid kit, and any vital medications or baby care products.
• Business owners should notify staff
and patrons of the potential risk.
• Familiarise oneself with the methods to shut off gas, electricity, and water mains supplies.
• In rural locales, farmers are encouraged to move livestock and equipment from regions susceptible to flooding.
Above all, people should abstain from walking, cycling, or driving through floodwaters. It is essential to remember that just 30 cm of rapidly flowing water can dislodge a vehicle, while a mere 15 cm can knock an adult off balance. Floodwaters can be hazardous and possibly contaminated, so any contact should be followed by thorough handwashing. Residents who wish to manage their flood warning notifications can do so online or contact Floodline for further assistance.
JOB cuts at Wilko’s head office and warehouses are expected to begin this week, including at the two Pembrokeshire stores, after a surprise £90m bid for the discount retailer fell through
It is understood that about a third of the 1,400 staff at the group’s headquarters and distribution centres are to be made redundant after talks with M2 Capital collapsed because a failure to provide proof of funding.
Talks on a rival bid from the HMV owner, Doug Putman, continue. It is understood that he does not want to hold on to Wilko’s back-office function, only the brand and its stores.
Almost 12,500 jobs are at risk after Wilko called in administrators this month as it ran short of cash.
M2 is a little-known Anglo-Canadian finance
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailgroup that has set up funds to buy hotels and car parts makers but has yet to complete any deals. It is the only bidder that has pledged to take on Wilko’s support staff as well as its shops. However, it has not satisfied administrators that it has the necessary backing to do so.
The private equity firm has reportedly been in discussions about financing the deal with Michael Flacks, an entrepreneur who owns a diverse array of businesses including the US retailer KellyMoore Paints, the skin brushing brand Non Nonsense Beauty and the pump maker Aldrich. He once looked at buying the British brand Laura Ashley.
However, Flacks told the Sun he had only heard from M2 this week:
“I replied saying I have no interest in Wilko and I don’t back anyone’s business,” he told the newspaper.
In a letter to the chair of M2, Robert Mantse, representatives for Wilko’s administrators at Pricewater houseCoopers asked for “clarification as to the status of your interest”
including “proof and source of funds, which is satisfactory to us” by 5pm on Wednesday.
A source close to the process has questioned the credibility of the M2 bid, which was put forward very late on the final day for offers on Friday and included a 20% stake in the business for employees.
Mantse responded: “Money talks and bullsh*t walks.”
M2 has said it has £150m lined up to support a buyout and turnaround at Wilko.
Putman’s offer does not include the retailer’s head office and warehouse, but would include more than 200 of its 400 shops, possibly
protecting up to 10,000 jobs.
The Canadian tycoon’s family also owns Everest Toys, the largest toyand games distribution company in North America, and Toys R Us in Canada. He is expected to combine Wilko’s operations with HMV and his toy business if his bid is successful.
STARTING
September 17, the Welsh Government’s broad 20-mph speed restriction will replace the current 30-mph norm in urban areas. Designed to boost road safety, the decision is a double-edged sword, balancing between reduced casualties and potentially significant financial and operational ramifications.
Professor Stuart Cole, CBE, Emeritus Professor of Transport Economics and Policy, University of South Wales, has explained his several concerns, set out below, regards the new legislation.
Operational
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailBread’s morning delivery offers a window into potential hiccups. Timed for 30-mph speeds, reduced speed limits can lower van productivity, possibly raising prices for end consumers. Urban bus passengers, too, are bracing for longer commutes. The need for extra vehicles, more driver shifts, and anticipated increased hourly rates for drivers paint a challenging financial picture for bus companies.
The modern bus, optimized for speeds
of 30-mph or 40-mph, now faces a disruptive 20-mph mandate. This shift could necessitate overriding automatic gearing systems, potentially undermining safety objectives and leading to higher maintenance expenses.
A Conservative Perspective
In the backdrop of these insights, Natasha Asghar MS, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Transport, voiced her concerns. She remarked, “The observations by Professor Stuart Cole underscore a significant oversight by the Labour Government.“
“For over a year, I’ve highlighted potential drawbacks — from slower emergency response times to increased delivery durations, and even the likelihood of bus route adjustments. As we near this policy’s rollout, these unforeseen consequences, combined with a £4.5 billion expenditure by Labour, paints a worrying picture for the Welsh economy,” Natasha expressed.
Seeking Solutions
The 20-mph limit aims to tilt preference scales from cars to buses. To truly succeed, bus priority schemes on congested routes, like Cardiff’s Castle
street and Swansea’s Kingsway, could be vital. But with electric buses demanding almost triple the price of conventional ones, financial challenges loom large.
In this scenario, bus companies, looking at a requisite profit margin of 10% on local tenders, are hesitant to invest significantly, especially with the fiscal support measures like the Welsh Government’s Bus Transition Fund set to end by March 2024.
With potential bus service reductions, especially in rural
Wales, stagnant passenger numbers, and escalating costs, the bus sector faces a challenging trifecta. While the Welsh Government’s intentions echo safety and environmental concerns, perhaps a staggered approach could have been more judicious. Considering a rollout in high-casualty zones, introducing supportive bus priority measures, and delaying the scheme’s onset until the bus industry finds firmer financial footing might have catered to all stakeholders more effectively.
IT WAS an exceptionally busy Thursday for the RNLI in the lead up to the Bank Holiday Weekend. At 11.27am on Thursday 24 August, inshore lifeboat Marian and Alan Clayton was requested to assist an injured person at the Blue Lagoon, Abereiddi. The lifeboat arrived on scene and was able to manoeuvre straight into the lagoon to provide oxygen support to the casualty, working alongside the St Davids coastguard volunteers – who already had the situation under control.
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and an ambulance arrived shortly after and, once the paramedic was satisfied with the situation, the casualty was evacuated by the land based teams to the awaiting ambulance. The inshore lifeboat was rehoused at 1.07pm.
At 6.30pm, St Davids
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emaillaunched on a planned training exercise to continue volunteer crew training.
At 4.11am on Friday 25 August, St Davids RNLI responded to a PAN PAN distress call after a yacht got into difficulties two miles south west of South Bishop Lighthouse.
All-weather lifeboat Norah Wortley launched into the darkness and was quickly on scene in calm conditions. Upon assessment of the situation, Coxswain Will Chant decided a tow to Milford Haven was the best course of action to enable repair of the yacht’s engine.
Once the charity’s lifeboat was south of Skomer island, Milford Haven coastguard requested Angle RNLI take over the tow to ensure good operational cover was maintained
along the north Pembrokeshire coast. St Davids lifeboat returned to station and rehoused at 7.32am.
Will Chant, RNLI Coxswain for St Davids RNLI lifeboat, said: ‘Both lifeboat launches proved firsts for members of our volunteer crew, with recently qualified Chris Edwards as deputy mechanic on the South Bishop light house rescue and crew member Sarah Kirby’s first shout on the inshore lifeboat.
‘All-weather lifeboat crew member Dr Roger Scofield assisted us shore side at Abereiddi, travelling to the scene by car. It was also the first time I’ve worked alongside my wife Lottie who attended the Abereiddi incident in her capacity as St Davids Fire and Rescue officer. Although a busy day, we train to ensure we can continue saving lives at sea, 24 hours a day.’
A TAKEAWAY ice cream parlour/ coffee bar at surplus public toilets, repeatedly recommended for refusal, could only have a seven-year lifespan even if it is given the go-ahead.
At the June meeting of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s planning committee, members went against officer recommendations by narrowly backing the Newgale scheme.
The application, by Mike Harris, included a beach-themed small retail unit and a small rear extension for a kitchen at closed public toilets next to Newgale Campsite.
It also offered a new seasonal public disabled toilet to be provided by the applicant.
As the plan was a departure from officer recommendations, planners could only be ‘minded to’ approve, needing a future meeting for final ratification,
initially expected to be the July meeting. However, national park planners at that meeting heard the scheme had been subject to a potential ‘call-in’ for the Welsh Government to decide its fate, after a
request from the National Trust.
That request was turned down, the application now returning to the September 6 meeting of the national park’s planning committee, again recommended for refusal.
A report for committee members suggests that,
if they approve against officer recommendations, conditions be imposed, including a legal agreement to provide disabled toilet facilities and a seven-year condition relating to potential flooding.
The site is within a designated flood risk zone, part of a wider area that is currently subject
to a coastal adaptation scheme being led by Pembrokeshire County Council, which will eventually involve the relocation of the road adjacent to the site.
“This is anticipated to happen within the shortterm and will impact on the operation of the proposal,” the report says.
“For this reason, it is recommended that the proposal be granted for a temporary period of seven years or until it becomes unusable –whichever is the sooner. The applicant will have the opportunity to reapply for a further period of use for the building, if appropriate in the dynamic environmental changes facing Newgale.”
As part of this, officers are also recommending a legal agreement “to establish a mechanism whereby the building and its associated infrastructure is removed and remediated in the event either of the road being removed or the use of the building ceasing,” with a September 6, 2030, date given in potential approval conditions.
Another condition listed in the latest report is a call for two bird boxes to be placed on site as part of a biodiversity enhancement scheme.
AZMAIN
CHOWDHURY, a 30-year-old resident of West India Dock Road, Limehouse, London, has confessed to sexually assaulting a woman and assaulting another in Pembroke, Pembrokeshire on March 26th.
While presenting himself at Swansea Crown Court, Chowdhury entered a guilty plea for assault that caused actual bodily harm. In addition, he accepted responsibility for two counts of property damage — specifically,
the victim’s television and mobile phone.
Further, Chowdhury acknowledged two charges of sexual assault on a second woman, admitting to inappropriate touching.
While Chowdhury had initially refuted a separate charge of brandishing an offensive weapon — a kitchen knife — in a private setting, along with another count of sexual
assault on the same day, these charges were allowed to remain on his record as directed by Judge Geraint Walters.
Prosecutor Craig Jones confirmed the acceptance of Chowdhury’s guilty pleas, thus negating the need for a trial.
Judge Walters has commissioned a presentencing report. Meanwhile, Chowdhury remains in custody, awaiting his sentencing hearing scheduled for September 15th.
IN WHAT appears to be a case of disregard for disabled patrons, Lidl Haverfordwest is under fire for allegedly blocking off all its disabled parking spaces for the purpose of window and pavement cleaning.
John Molloy, who got in touch with our news desk, was frustrated when his partner was left unable to shop after a long drive from Fishguard, given that the supermarket is the only place she feels safe to alight from their vehicle.
“I’ve taken several photos showing the parking spaces clearly blocked off,” said Mr. Molloy. “It’s very disappointing and feels like outright discrimination against disabled people.”
To add to the dismay, when Mr. Molloy approached the store’s management for an explanation, the response was far from
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailreassuring. The store manager reportedly showed little empathy for the situation, claiming that the cleaning had to be done during regular hours because “they won’t pay them overtime to do it late at night.”
This incident raises significant concerns about the supermarket chain’s attitude towards its disabled customers, and whether adequate measures are in place to ensure their comfort and convenience.
The story comes as a stark reminder that while many businesses have moved forward in terms of inclusivity and accessibility, there are still instances that highlight lapses in consideration and respect for all customers.
Lidl has been approached for a comment.
A PROPOSED
£6m expansion of a south Pembrokeshire holiday park next to historic ironworks, which objectors fear would “swallow” the neighbouring village, is again being recommended for refusal.
The application for the works at Heritage Park, Pleasant Valley/ Stepaside, which had attracted hundreds of objections, was recommended for refusal at the July meeting of the county council’s planning committee.
Members at that meeting agreed to attend a site visit rather than follow the recommendation for refusal, following a proposal by Councillor Mark Carter.
The application, again recommended for refusal, is now back before the September 5 meeting of the county
council’s planning committee.
The scheme includes the installation of 48 bases for holiday lodges, a spa facility at a former pub, holiday apartments, a café and cycle hire, equestrian stables, a manège and associated office, and associated works.
Heritage Leisure Development (Wales)
Ltd, is proposing a £6m investment at the site, next to the historic remains of the 19th century Stepaside ironworks and colliery, which it says will create 43 jobs.
The application has seen 245 objections raised, as well as a 38page objection from Stepaside & Pleasant Valley Residents’ Group, along with concerns from local community councils,
and rural campaign group the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW).
At the July meeting, agent Helen AshbyRidgway said the development, which would include a fivestar spa available for public use, was of the “highest quality,” which would bring “high-value” visitors to the county.
She said there were no material reasons to refuse the application,
the only one given was location.
“We must remember Stepaside is not set in aspic,” she told committee members, adding: “In granting planning permission you will taking a proactive approach in making Pembrokeshire a destination of choice.”
Speaking on behalf of Stepaside & Pleasant Valley Residents’ Group, Trish Cormack said she was pleased at the refusal recommendation but was disappointed there wasn’t enough emphasis on the environment, traffic and what the group sees as overdevelopment.
Mrs Cormack also said: “The beautiful character of the valley would be lost forever,” adding the holiday lodges would be “a sad and tacky backdrop to an important piece of Welsh heritage.”
In a plea to avoid Stepaside being
“swallowed as a whole,” she said: “The very peace and beauty that residents and visitors love would be gone forever. Let us keep Pleasant Valley pleasant.”
Since the deferral pending a site visit, further representations have been received, a report for members states.
Stepaside & Pleasant Valley Residents’ Group (SPVRG) has claimed there are errors and omissions in the officers’ report previously presented.
Support for the application has also been received disagreeing with some of the matters raised by the SPVRG, saying the development would create jobs and boost the local economy, reduce the impact on local housing from second homes, and build an out-of-season revenue stream.
OUTSIDE of home, I’ve lived my life on sports fields, working in offices and drinking in pubs. At different times and for different reasons, I’ve enjoyed all three of my extra-mural activities.
As I’ve gotten older, however, I’ve come to cherish the delights of home more and more. It’s not so much the old cliche about home being where the heart is, although I’m damned sure the missus could and would gut me like a fish and show me my still-beating ticker before I carked it if I tried sneaking out to the pub on anything other than an authorised visit.
PLANS for a new estate of 54 homes in a south Pembrokeshire seaside village are expected to get the goahead from national park planners, with a condition restricting 13 properties to not being second homes.
The application for the mixtures of 27 houses and 27 flats/apartments – together with ancillary works – at agricultural land north of Whitlow, Saundersfoot, is made by Morgan Construction (Wales) Limited and Barcud Housing Association.
The application, which includes a mix of 19 affordable properties, meeting the Saundersfoot area requirement for 35 per cent of such properties – is recommended for conditional approval
when it comes before Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners at their September 6 development management committee.
No objection to the plans was received by local community council Saundersfoot, other than concerns regarding the possibility of properties being sold as second homes.
Several letters of objection were received, raising concerns including the potential for the new dwellings to become holiday lets, loss of privacy to neighbouring properties, loss of views, and the impact on existing property values.
A report for planners
said that there was an assumption that just under 29 per cent of properties in Saundersfoot could be categorised as second homes or holiday lets, which could lead to 71 per cent of the apartments – the most likely to be viewed as suitable for second homes – having a sole or main residence condition on them.
This would mean 13 of the 19 open market apartments would have a ‘C3’ main use condition, separate from the affordable housing requirement.
Agent Evans Banks Planning Limited, in a supporting statement, said a pre-application enquiry to the national park had elicited a positive response, leading to the formal application.
“The proposals have
undergone considerable pre-application negotiations and discussions with National Park Authority Officers,” it states
“It has become apparent that the Authority expect the capacity of the allocation as shown in the LDP to be met in full.
“Such an expectation can present challenges if a site also has to be formed over undulating topography and accommodate surface water measures which met future adoption criteria of the Adoption Authority.
“The scheme has evolved from initial concepts where there was an emphasis on a lesser density to reflect the semi-urban / edge of village character of the site.
“To achieve a capacity of 54 units as quoted in the LDP, can only be achieved if residential apartments are introduced, as a significant proportion of the unit type mix.
“A total of 27 apartments have therefore been introduced in the development to ensure that the remaining 27 dwelling houses are all afforded sufficient amenity and parking space.”
The application is recommended for approval, with a list of conditions including the ‘C3’ restriction.
exciting new breeds. When I was a child, we called them mongrels. This one is something crossed with a standard poodle.
I think it’s a wacka-doodle. But when I suggested that to the wife, she gave me a look so freezing I was tempted to check the brass monkeys in the living room cabinet.
The wife adores the furry little moron and projects an intelligence onto it that it has in only negative quantities.
Nope. It’s not abject fear that keeps me home in the evening. Instead, it’s an increasingly keen appreciation of my age, frailties, and increasing inability to find my arse with an atlas when I’ve had one too many.
Staying indoors altogether is not an option.
The missus recently acquired a rescue dog to keep us company in our golden years.
We haven’t had a dog since poor Winston passed beyond the veil many years ago. A smellier, more arthritic and useless dachshund never existed. I can still see him now with his little glassy eyes conveying a total absence of intelligence.
That’s because the wife had him stuffed. We use him as a draught excluder.
Now, for the first time in a long time, there are three of us in the house. My beloved, me, and my beloved’s beloved. The wife explained that the mutt is one of those
I have yet to decide whether the hound was rescued from its previous owners or they were rescued from it. It’s less a dog than a nervous breakdown on paws.
The damned thing is either running around like a loon with a small stuffed squeaky toy in its mouth demanding or fast asleep in contortions so bizarre that I suspect its bones are made of rubber bands. Between times it explores our garden looking for places to crap or sits next to the wife and stares at her expecting attention, affection, or a snack.
I’ve stared at the wife like that for years and got nowhere. The mutt has cracked her in days.
I’m not jealous.
Mitzi is a wonderful addition to our family for one very important reason. The missus likes taking Mitzi for walks. She no longer wants or needs my company on her nightly yomps. She has Mitzi.
I get to stay at home in the warm with uninterrupted access to the remote control and the biscuit barrel.
My wife is very wise. Now, we both have what we want.
A PEMBROKESHIRE country lane became a point of pilgrimage for a Canadian family who were following the wartime trail of a relative who survived an aircraft crash there.
Graham Strong, his wife Noel and two sons, travelled from Thunder Bay, Ontario, to meet up with aviation historian Malcolm Cullen of Marloes.
In January 1943 Graham’s grandfather, Sergeant Roy Strong, was flight engineer on an RAF Liberator transport with 17 crew and passengers which crashed attempting to land at Talbenny airfield. Three died – one of the pilots and two high ranking Army officers returning from the war leaders’ conference at Casablanca, Morocco.
Graham’s enquiry about the crash came to the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre and was
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailforwarded to Malcolm who has researched RAF Talbenny’s wartime history and knew the exact location where the four engined aircraft came down.
Malcolm, a founder member of the Pembrokeshire Aviation Group, said: “Liberator AM913 was one of the first to be operated by the RAF. Within sight of the airfield an engine went on fire and fell off and another engine failed and the Liberator crashed in a field by a road.
Added Graham: “My grandfather survived but suffered a broken back. We are most grateful to Malcolm for taking us around the area and for all the information. It’s a piece of family history that I understand better now.”
ON MONDAY (Aug 28), Tenby’s all-weather lifeboat was promptly dispatched following an urgent call from the Coastguard. A distressed dog had reportedly taken an unfortunate tumble over the cliffs at Box Bay.
Mere moments after the distress call was received, the diligent volunteers of the Tenby lifeboat service were navigating the waters. The incident site was located approximately
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email10 miles west of their base station.
As the crew neared the beach, fortune smiled upon the stranded canine. An alert kayaker, who serendipitously happened to be in the vicinity, paddled his way to the beach.
The quick-thinking individual managed to retrieve the shaken dog and deliver it into the capable hands
of the lifeboat crew. Once aboard, the dog was given a thorough examination and was comforted, ensuring its safety and well-being.
In a final act of coordination, the dog was transported to Stackpole Quay, where Coastguard officials took custody, ensuring it awaited a reunion with its undoubtedly relieved owner.
The lifeboat subsequently made its journey back, marking another successful rescue operation.
A NEW survey has shone a light on the varied landscape of electric vehicle adoption across Great Britain. Scots are at the forefront of the eco-friendly revolution, with Wales trailing notably.
Car finance gurus, Carmoola, highlighted an explosive surge in the popularity of Electric and Hybrid vehicles, with one electric vehicle being snapped up every 60 seconds in July. Astonishingly, Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) registrations saw a rise by a staggering 87.9% to 23,010.
According to this in-depth study, which surveyed 2,202 individuals from around Great Britain, 5% of Scots now own an electric vehicle as their main mode of transport. In stark contrast, Wales lags considerably behind, with just 1% of those questioned claiming they drive an electric vehicle.
Here’s a concise breakdown of the electric and hybrid vehicle ownership across various regions:
• Scotland: 5% electric, 4% hybrid, 8.9% charging point distribution
• East of England: 4% electric, 6% hybrid, 6.9% charging point distribution
• South East: 3% electric, 5% hybrid, 12.4% charging point distribution
• Wales: 1% electric, 2% hybrid, 4.2% charging point distribution …
Despite their evident growth, electric vehicles still remain in the minority on British roads. Only 3% of respondents drive
one as their primary vehicle, and 6% opting for a hybrid.
Infrastructure, too, weaves an interesting tale. The UK boasts over 45,737 public charging points. London, despite housing 31.4% of these chargers, sees only 2% of its denizens driving electric. Surprisingly, many are opting for hybrid models.
The cost remains a significant deterrent for many contemplating the switch. While the initial price tag of electric cars may be on the steeper side, they prove to be more economical in the long haul. For example, charging an electric car on the public network in June 2023 averaged at 49p/kWh. Petroldriven cars, on the other hand, continue to pinch pockets at £1.44 per litre.
Aidan Rushby of Carmoola opined on the findings, “The
future looks promising for electric vehicles. With advancements in battery technology and more streamlined production processes, the costs associated with EVs are set to plummet. While they might currently be more expensive upfront, the long-term savings are palpable. Our survey underlines the fact that the overall cost is a major concern for drivers. Yet, as choices expand with an array of models, there’s bound to be an accelerated adoption of these environmentally friendly alternatives.”
The above statistics were collated by YouGov Plc, with a sample size of 2,272 adults. All findings have been weighted and are reflective of all GB adults (18+ years old). For a more detailed breakdown on the distribution of public UK charging points, readers can consult the Zapmap database.
In a remarkable tale of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, Katie O’Sullivan, founder of Pride Clean, shares her inspiring journey from a career in healthcare to establishing a thriving cleaning business. In an exclusive interview, Katie sheds light on the challenges, triumphs, and her aspirations for the future of Pride Clean.
With a decade of experience working in the NHS, primarily in Mental Health, Katie decided to embark on a new path amidst the Covid pandemic’s uncertainty. “I thought of changing my mind with things,” she reflects. And so, two years ago, Pride Clean was born. The initial days were slow, but Katie’s unwavering determination propelled the business forward. Assisted by her supportive wife Kirsty, Katie’s cleaning venture gradually gained momentum.
Despite initial doubts,
Katie took a leap of faith, leaving her NHS role to fully focus on Pride Clean. “It was a struggle,” she recalls, “I thought I’m never going to get there.” However, Katie’s dedication paid
off as Pride Clean grew steadily, ultimately establishing itself as a successful enterprise. Her journey was also complemented by the efforts of Jodee, her son’s girlfriend, who
started with limited hours and eventually became a supervisor working fulltime. One pivotal moment came when Pride Clean secured a substantial contract with Siemens
Energy, operating on a construction site.
Alongside the cleaning enterprise, Katie ventured into the food industry, running a burger van with her mother, Elizabeth Ann Meszaros. This diversified approach allowed her to extend her influence further.
Pride Clean’s coverage area spans Saundersfoot, Tenby, Pembroke Dock, Angle, and South Pembrokeshire, including Milford. Katie attributes her growing clientele to word of mouth, a strong Facebook presence, and eye-catching advertising on her van.
The business specializes in cleaning holiday lets, which also includes the premises’ laundry and creating “Welcome packs.” Additionally, their repertoire extends to commercial premises, notably the Siemens Energy site. From humble beginnings with small cabins, Katie’s determination led to securing contracts with
major players in the industry.
Pride Clean also showcases their expertise through “before and after” photos, documenting their transformative cleaning prowess, even in the face of challenging scenarios.
When asked about the future, Katie reveals a mix of humor and aspiration. “Retired hopefully,” she quips, before sharing her serious ambitions to expand Pride Clean’s commercial contracts and provide more job opportunities. Her enthusiasm for the business and her unwavering spirit underscore a truly inspirational journey that exemplifies the potential of following one’s dreams.
As Pride Clean continues to flourish under Katie’s leadership, her story stands as a testament to the power of dedication and the rewards that come from taking bold steps into the unknown.
PEAT LAND
restoration is a global issue; left degraded it accelerates climate change, but once restored, it’s one of the best ways to lock in carbon. This summer, the LIFE Welsh Raised Bog team was pleased to host a visit for 11 peatland professionals from Denmark to showcase the success of Welsh bog restoration to date.
Visiting the iconic Welsh Raised Bog sites of Cors Caron and Cors Fochno in June, Ole Ottosen who manages the Danish LIFE Raised Bog project said: Our Danish team was delighted to review the innovative solutions for restoration of degraded raised bogs seen here in Wales. In particular, the use of the bunding restoration method seemed to be very promising and we were pleased to see that the negative impact on raised bog ecosystems can be counteracted by relatively simple means. This is good news for the conservation forecast of our more recent LIFE Raised bog project work in Denmark.
Welsh LIFE Raised Bogs Project Manager, Jake White explained: Wales and Denmark face many of the same problems for the conservation and restoration of raised bogs in terms of
environmental threats such as nitrogen disposal and poor hydrology. A common understanding of these threats and how to deal with them is important for nature conservation in the future and for mitigating climate warming.
The Danish visitors
also expressed a keen interest in Natural Resources Wales’ approach to making the bogs more accessible to the public through paths, boardwalks, information boards, and public engagement activities.
Natural Resources Wales coordinates the strategic allWales approach to Wales peatland action on behalf of Welsh
Government, through the National Peatland Action Programme, as well as managing bespoke peatland LIFE restoration projects, such as the initial Anglesey and Llyn Fens project, the Welsh Raised Bogs project, and the more recent Quaking Bogs project.
Peatland restoration contributes to the national efforts to address the
climate and nature emergencies. The joined-up partnership Wales Peatland Action approach aims to standardise monitoring and reporting, collaborate with stakeholder liaison, and share good practice within Wales and with wider partners in the UK, Europe and beyond.
Around 4% of Wales is covered in peat which is the most
valuable land resource for carbon capture and safeguarding, given its potential to store 30% of soil-based carbon in Wales. About 90% of Welsh peatland is in an unfavourable condition due to impacts such as drainage or erosion. In this state, greenhouse gases contributing to accelerating climate change are released, until the peatland is restored.
THREE staff from Sunderland Ward in South Pembrokeshire Hospital braved a charity skydive to raise funds for the ward.
Bex, Tracy and Denise took part in the charity tandem skydive at Skydive Swansea on 3rd June 2023.
They raised £2,000 for activities for patients on Sunderland Ward, a 40-bed rehabilitation ward.
Rebecca Richards, Clinical Lead Nurse -
Pembrokeshire, said: “The skydive was a fantastic experience for the three staff members from Sunderland Ward.
“I am so glad it was such a sunny day and we were able to reach our target through our JustGiving page and cash donations. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported us.”
Nicola Llewelyn,
Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”
For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www. hywelddahealt hcharities.org.uk
AN ICONIC seaside town’s historic market building – home of one of the oldest markets in Pembrokeshire – needs urgent attention to stop it deteriorating further, senior councillors will hear.
Concerns about the condition of Tenby’s Market Hall have previously been raised with local politicians and councillors, with the county council – which has responsibility for maintaining it – coming in for criticism.
The Grade II-listed Market Hall is believed to house one of the oldest markets still trading in the county, which can trace its first charter back to 1290.
A notice of motion on the hall, made by Tenby county councillor Micheal Williams, has been referred to the council’s
Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy ReporterCabinet – meeting on September 4.
The notice of motion read: “That Pembrokeshire County Council initiate a full structural survey of Tenby market building to establish the condition of the building, together with an examination of its potential.
“The building is a listed building of considerable historical significance in the town centre, which has sadly lacked investment over many years.”
In his supporting submission, Cllr Williams says: “There is an urgent need to address the deteriorating condition of this iconic building which has lacked any meaningful investment for many years.”
He adds: “Currently the roof leaks, with traders having to frequently mop up rainwater, and the existing roof ventilation does not work, meaning traders have to operate in extremes of temperature.
“The upper floor, which at one time served as the magistrates’ court is difficult to utilise effectively, and currently and represents a considerable lost opportunity.
“There doesn’t appear to be a shortage of small businesses that would like to trade within the building, but I am aware of some who are deterred by the condition of the building and a perception that PCC is not committed to its continued operation.”
A report for Cabinet members says, following a 2022 survey, an estimate has been provided, centred around
a requirement for the replacement of the roof.
“Given the existing roof is inaccessible for inspection and maintenance, and with limited environmental performance, it is not regarded as feasible to simply provide a like-forlike replacement.
“As such it is also likely that the estimated costs
would be substantially higher to create a modern, accessible roof, which improves the ability to maintain and utilise the building.”
“The report for members concludes by saying that “until a review of options for the market and an understanding of demand has been undertaken it is not
possible to assess a business case for the wider improvement work nor how any works might best be funded”.
It is recommended that Cabinet does not support the request for a full structural survey, but does support an examination of the potential of the Market Hall.
PLANS to move temporarily Haverfordwest’s museum to the town’s Riverside Quay while levelling-up works in the town are ongoing are expected to get the goahead next week.
An application for a change of use of the former GAME electronic games store at 24-25 Riverside Quay to the temporary home for the ‘pop-up’ museum has been submitted to county planners by historian and council presiding member Cllr Dr Simon Hancock.
GAME itself has relocated to the Withybush retail park on the edge of the town.
The application – for a temporary consent up until October 31 of next year – is recommended for approval when it comes before the county council’s planning committee, meeting on September 5.
The museum itself is moving from its current site at the Governor’s Office next to Haverfordwest Castle due to ongoing works connected with the £24m Heart of Pembrokeshire levellingup redevelopment of that part of the county town, which is expected to last
until Spring 2026.
A report for planners states: “Whilst the proposal would temporarily result in the loss of availability of an A1 (shop) premises, it would result in has in the occupation of a formerly vacant premises and the re-location of the Haverfordwest Town Museum which would have positive economic and social impacts.
“It is understood that the retail element of the building has been vacant since GAME relocated and has since been marketed by local estate agents without interest.
“The proposed occupation of the building would have a positive impact on the overall vibrancy and vitality of the primary retail frontage and the proposal accords with the requirements [of planning policies].”
Senior councillors, meeting at the council’s Cabinet the previous day, September 4, are to consider financial support for the museum.
A report for Cabinet members says: “Whilst
the proposed use of unit 24/25 at Riverside by Haverfordwest Town Museum is not a commercial use, we do believe it will support footfall. The letting will save the council the void rates and service charges liabilities, which amount to £21,000pa.”
It adds: “A funding application has been made by Haverfordwest Town Museum to the Shared Prosperity Fund to cover many, but not all, of the costs associated with fitting out of unit 24/25 Riverside, moving the collections etc.
“Even if the SPF application is successful, there is a 20 per cent match funding requirement and there are other costs which are ineligible for SPF.
“In addition, payment of a market rent and service charge for a unit within Riverside would not be viable for Haverfordwest Town Museum, which aside from a small ancillary shop, is not a commercial venture.”
A decision of any funding will be made at the September Cabinet meeting.
AT CLYNFYW CARE
FARM, Abercych, north Pembrokeshire’s Apple Juicing Service got away to a flyer last week as the first apples of the 2023 season came in, three weeks earlier than previous years.
‘We have been running the juicing service since 2014,’ said Michael Jones, one of the juicers. ‘It has grown year on year and last year we made over 11,000 bottles for over 150 different tree owners. It is an epic adventure for a few months, and by the end of October none of us ever want to see another apple again! By next autumn we are ready and keen to get going again.’
West Wales imports thousands of gallons of apple juice each year, while many people have
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailtheir own trees dropping fruit which goes wasted.
‘There are more community resilience schemes like this starting up all the time,’ said Clynfyw’s manager, Jim Bowen. ‘With the changing climate and related food insecurity the more schemes like this there are the better it is for all of us. It is interesting how early the apples are this year. The knock-on effect of the record breaking temperatures last year, and then the floods this year really show us how fragile our food supplies can be. With the cost of living crisis too, the more we can use free food productively, the better it is for everyone.’
Clynfyw has 250 trees and sells apple juice in local shops,
while other growers bring apples which they use themselves, give away as gifts and sell to shops in their locality. People come from as
far away as Brecon to use the service. ‘It is really good,’ said Hywel Davies who lives in supported tenancy at Clynfyw and is involved
in the juicing process too. ‘We like helping people here and the money Clynfyw makes goes towards funding shipping containers full
of wheelchairs to South Africa and Kenya, which means we are helping people miles away too.’ It is hard to find fault with the scheme.
IN A RECENT hearing at the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, a parent from Trafalgar Road, Haverfordwest, faced charges over the non-regular attendance of two children of compulsory school age at one of the town’s schools. The offences occurred between 29th March 2023 and 22nd June 2023. The case was proven in the
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emaildefendant’s absence.
The parent was handed a fine of £660, in addition to a surcharge of £264 to fund victim services. Furthermore, costs of £85 were also imposed. The court has issued a collection order for the aforementioned amounts.
The court further directed that the
identities of the two children involved should be protected, ensuring that no information leading to their identification, including names, addresses, educational institutions or workplaces, and any images of them, are published or shared. This order will remain in effect until the children reach the age of 18, safeguarding their privacy.
WALES & West Utilities will shortly start work to upgrade part of the gas network in St. Clears.
The £300,000 investment work, which starts on 4 September, is essential to keep the gas flowing safely to heat and power local homes and businesses, keeping people warm for generations to come. It involves upgrading gas pipes in the Station Road area of the town and, barring any
engineering difficulties, it will finish in March next year.
Wales & West Utilities has worked closely with Carmarthenshire County Council to plan the scheme and it has been agreed that traffic management will be used as required and motorists should allow sufficient travel time.
Wales & West
Utilities Adam Smith is managing this gas pipe upgrade work. He said:
“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across Carmarthenshire. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.
“We know that
working in areas like this is not ideal, but it really is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future. We’ll have a team of gas engineers on site throughout the project to make sure our work is completed as safely and as quickly as possible while keeping disruption to a minimum.
“This work is essential to keep the
gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane, so we can all play our part in a green future.”
Our Customer Service Team is ready to take your call if you have any questions about our work. You can contact them on freephone 0800 912 2999.
Alternatively, you can contact us on Twitter @
WWUtilities or https:// www.facebook.com/ wwutilities.
Wales & West Utilities, the gas emergency and pipeline service, brings energy to 7.5m people across the south west of England and Wales. If you smell gas, or suspect the presence of carbon monoxide, call us on 0800 111 999 straight away, and our engineers will be there to help any time of day or night.
IN A RECENT statement issued by Vaughan Gething MS, Minister for the Economy, the Welsh Government expressed its contentment over the publication of the new Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) by the UK Government.
The BTOM, which delineates the UK’s upcoming approach to safety, security controls for all imports, and notably the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls for particular imports such as live animals, plants, and animal products, has garnered the support of the Welsh authorities. This model has been formulated over several months and signifies a joint effort of the Welsh, Scottish, and UK Governments. “The framework has been developed over many months of collaboration between
the Welsh, Scottish and UK Governments,” said Gething, who also added that a summary of expert
advice is available with the statement.
A significant highlight of the BTOM is the emphasis on maintaining a coherent regime across Great Britain. This is not
only vital for safeguarding our collective biosecurity but is crucial to avert unnecessary complications for traders. Minister Gething remarked, “As a result
of our involvement, we have secured a model which works for Wales.”
Interestingly, while the draft BTOM slated the first of the SPS controls to commence in October 2023, the new controls are now scheduled to begin in January 2024. Addressing this shift, Gething stated, “We have reluctantly accepted this delay, but it is essential that there are no further delays.”
In addition to existing regulations, starting from January 2024, there will be a new requirement to pre-notify certain categories of SPS goods imported from the Republic of Ireland. This aligns with the norms that have been operational for similar EU imports elsewhere in GB since the start of 2022.
One of the most anticipated aspects of the BTOM was the timeline for the introduction of physical checks on imports for
goods from Ireland. The latest update confirms that these checks will not commence any earlier than 31st October 2024. Gething reassured that he will provide a subsequent announcement about the exact date once all the governments arrive at a consensus.
A significant stress was laid on providing ample notice for businesses that would be impacted, ensuring that key agencies and local authorities, especially in the regions of Holyhead, Fishguard, and Pembroke Dock, have adequate time for planning and recruitment.
Minister Gething concluded his statement by acknowledging its release during recess and assured members that he would be available to offer further insights or address any queries when the Senedd reconvenes.
Monday in St. Davids was a vibrant spectacle as locals and visitors alike gathered at the Oriel Y Parc car park to kick off an afternoon of celebrations, parades, and community spirit.
From floats adorned with colourful displays to children and adults donning whimsical and creative fancy dresses, the atmosphere was electric. By 1:30pm, the car park was bustling with excitement as float participants took their positions. Shortly after, walkers, many dressed in a myriad of imaginative outfits, arrived, readying themselves for the parade’s start at 2pm.
Making its way through the town, the parade showcased the local spirit of creativity, enthusiasm, and unity. Parents held the hands of their young children, all eagerly awaiting the fancy dress competition that was set to take place at 3pm.
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email
After the parade, attendees continued the festivities at the local rugby club. With activities ranging from face painting and hair braiding to live music performances and a selection of stalls, there was something for everyone. The gentle hum of conversation, punctuated by the excited shrieks of children jumping in bouncy castles, echoed throughout the venue.
The highlight of the day for many was the highly anticipated fancy dress competition. Categories spanned various age groups, from toddlers to adults. The judges had their work cut out for them as they deliberated over a dazzling array of costumes. Winners walked away with the pride of recognition, and in the case of the float competition, with substantial cash prizes. The top float took home
a whopping £250, with second and third places securing £100 and £50 respectively.
Reflecting on the day’s events, one attendee commented, “It’s days like these that truly showcase the heart and soul of our community. It was fantastic to see everyone come together in such a fun and celebratory manner.”
Organisers were overwhelmed by the turnout and support. They took to social media, encouraging attendees to share their memories of the day, posting, “PLEASE LIKE AND SHARE”.
Bank Holiday Monday in St. Davids will certainly be remembered for its communal spirit, joy, and the sheer fun of the occasion. And as the sun set on this memorable day, there was a collective sense of anticipation for what next year’s celebrations might bring.
TENANTS of the Bridge Innovation Centre (BIC), Pembroke Dock hosted a Summer Party for their friends and families and extended an invitation to those involved with foster care.
This included members of the Regional Foster Wales Team and Foster Wales Pembrokeshire, the local authority fostering team, foster carers, their families and the children they care for.
John Likeman of Raven Technologies, one of the many businesses operating
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailfrom the BIC, organised the event in order to raise awareness of the need for foster carers in Pembrokeshire.
He also wants to encourage businesses to adopt a more fostering friendly policy to enable them to support their employees to become foster carers.
“We, as employers, need to be reactive – able to be accommodating and compassionate towards our foster caring colleagues.
“The businesses which operate at the Bridge Innovation Centre are so kind and have reacted so positively to this event with many pledging to become fostering friendly and foster flexible organisations,” added Mr Likeman.
Foster Wales is calling on employers to recognise the contribution that foster carers make and understanding the need for some flexibility to bust the myth that you cannot work if you become a foster carer.
Nicky Sandford, Foster Wales Regional
Development Manager for Mid and West Wales said: “Nearly 40 per cent of foster carers combine fostering with other work. Those who do have told us that a supportive employer can make all the difference, enabling them to balance employment with looking after children.”
Melany Evans, Pembrokeshire County Council’s Service Manager for Children in Care thanked Mr Likeman and the BIC for their support. She added: “There are more than 240 children in the care of
the local authority in Pembrokeshire and we need more foster carers who are able to offer them the stable and loving homes that they deserve.
“If employers in can support their employees to become foster carers, we can help more children stay local, connected to their communities, and ultimately, to achieve better futures.”
Also in attendance was Voices from Care Cymru, an independent voice for the care community.
Operations Director,
Emma Phipps-Magill, said: “It is important, along with stable foster care, that our care experienced children and young people are given an avenue to connect with peers, be listened to and have a voice in influencing change for themselves and others.”
To find out more email nicky.sandford@ pembrokeshire.gov. uk or Katie.nicolle@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk.
More information about Foster Wales Pembrokeshire is available online or call 01437 774650.
ST DAVIDS RNLI allweather lifeboat Norah Wortley and Little Haven inshore lifeboat launched at 2.19pm after a direct page from Milford Haven coastguard.
The small dinghy had launched from Solva harbour but capsized off Pointz Castle beach. The three passengers spent more than half an hour in the water before the alarm was raised after being spotted by an onlooker with binoculars from the cliff top.
Numerous other vessels responded to the Mayday, with Newgale beach lifeguards first on scene.
The lifeguards managed to pull one casualty from the water and onto their jet ski rescue
sled. The two remaining casualties were rescued from the water by local vessels, who also secured the sinking dinghy by its bowline.
Arriving on scene, St Davids and Little Haven volunteer crews brought all the casualties onboard the Tamar class lifeboat where casualty care, warm
blankets and drinks were offered.
With the casualties safely aboard, the next task was to see if the dinghy could be saved. Some
careful manoeuvring of the casualty vessel between the two lifeboats allowed St Davids RNLI to use a salvage pump to drain the majority of the water from the vessel.
Little Haven crew emptied the remaining water using a bailer and bucket before towing the casualty dinghy back to Solva harbour, with St Davids lifeboat as escort.
Little Haven inshore lifeboat transferred the three casualties ashore, along with the remaining sailing equipment that had been salvaged from the sea.
St Davids Coastguard Rescue Team were waiting at Solva harbour to assist. St Davids all-weather lifeboat then escorted Little Haven inshore lifeboat
back across St Brides Bay to Little Haven before returning to station and rehousing at 4.45pm. Will Chant, RNLI Coxswain for St Davids RNLI lifeboat, said: ‘Despite the calm conditions, these casualties spent over half an hour in the water before the alarm was raised, and it was very difficult to spot the casualties in the sea. It is vital that people wear lifejackets if heading to sea, and vessels should have a means of calling for help, such as a waterproof pouch for a mobile, VHF radio and a personal locator beacon. This rescue had a positive outcome thanks to the response from everyone involved. This could have very easily been a tragic event.’
GULLS, listen up! The skies have been flapping wild these past few tides. What’s got our feathers ruffled? Some sort of ‘air traffic control’ (ATC) hiccup. And while we seagulls glide freely, it’s the big metal birds and their human passengers that are grounded.
A fellow bird told me Monday was what you might call “one heck of a stormy day”. 30% of all the metal birds couldn’t take off! And the ripples of this windy situation didn’t stop there. Come Tuesday, even more metal birds were stuck on the land.
Had a chat with a birdie perched at Dublin Airport, and she chirped the chaos. Imagine - 40,000 humans stranded! No nests to return to, and a whole lot of waiting. Even if 70 grounded flights might seem like a tiny pebble in the vast ocean, it’s not just about numbers. It’s about every human, every family disrupted by this.
A tweet from RyanAir mentioned they were in constant squawks with something called UK Nats. Seriously, how can Nats let their shiny boxes crash so badly? It’s like a gull dropping its catch – unacceptable!
Whispers among the flocks suggest some French birdie messed up their flight path. And Nats? They’re just ruffling their feathers
and calling it a “technical wormhole” or something.
Doug Maclean, a former Nats flier, chirped, “What’s the squawk?
Why so hush-hush?”
The big human nest on Downing Street?
They’re not ignoring these whispers. But they’re pretty sure it wasn’t a sneaky cyberhawk’s doing. And they say the big human birds are going to investigate with something called the CAA. All beaks are pointed to see what they uncover.
Till then, we need to keep our eyes on the prize: the sky! And while
metal birds and airlines aren’t the ones dropping their catches, they’re promising smoother flights ahead. They want to take to the skies like usual. But the real worm to catch: Can we trust these ATC things to be as sharp-eyed as us?
While the skies clear up and we get our favorite gliding spots back, it’s clear as a sunny day: We need openness, strong wings, and dedication. Every creature that takes to the skies deserves the best!
Stay sky-smart, fellow flyers!
AS FAMILIES get ready for the start of a new school term, many will be worried about the cost of living crisis.
But there is support available for learners and their families in Wales who may be struggling to afford school costs such as uniform, meals and transport, as well as some free schemes to help your child with their learning.
7 SCHEMES FAMILIES MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR:
School children (from reception to year 11) who are currently eligible for free school meals can apply for a grant towards school uniform, sports kit and equipment.
The grant is £125 per child, with learners entering year 7 being entitled to £200 to help with increased costs associated with starting
secondary school. All looked after children qualify for the grant, whether they receive free school meals or not.
The 2023 to 2024 scheme is now open.
Universal primary free school meals are currently being rolled out across Wales, starting with the youngest learners in our primary schools. As part of the Co-operation Agreement with Plaid Cymru, all primary school pupils will receive a free school meal by September 2024.
Children in secondary school may be able to get free school meals if their parents or carers receive benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, Child Tax Credit or Jobseeker’s Allowance.
Free school meals are available to eligible pupils who attend school full-time. This includes
sixth form pupils.
Families need to apply for free school meals, so it’s important to check eligibility.
Children may be entitled to receive a free breakfast in primary school, if the school they go to is maintained by the local authority and if it provides free breakfasts.
16 to 18-year-olds who want to continue in education could be eligible for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA). This is a weekly payment of £40 to help with the costs of further education, such as transport or meals.
Payments are made every fortnight and can be for academic or vocational courses.
Student Finance Wales has more information on the Education Maintenance Allowance and how to
apply.
Further education students studying at either their local school or college, may be able to get help with transport costs.
Free Welsh lessons are available for 16 to 18-year-olds who attend school, college or an apprenticeship scheme, to improve their Welsh language skills.
It’s part of the plans in the Welsh Government’s Co-Operation Agreement with Plaid Cymru to give 16-25 year olds, as well as all teaching staff, access to free Welsh lessons with the National Centre for Learning Welsh.
On-line and face to face courses are available, as well as self-study digital resources, as part of a
wide package of training for 16 to 18 year olds, whether they are in education or not.
Those who will be eligible to access the courses can get more information from their school, college, or apprenticeship scheme provider, or through the portal for young people on the National Centre’s website.
Hwb is a website with lots of free apps and software which help pupils learn. All teachers and learners have a Hwb account which gives them access to educational resources and digital tools.
One of the features of Hwb accounts is an automatic, free Microsoft Office 365 licence, allowing pupils to access and install the latest Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as Minecraft:
Education Edition. The licence can be used for free across up to 15 home devices including tablets and smartphones as well as desktop computers and laptops.
The Financial Contingency Fund provides financial support for eligible learners at Further Education colleges. It can be used for childcare costs, transport, meals, course equipment, learning materials and field trips.
The Minister for Education and Welsh Language has announced a 6.5% increase to the fund for 2023/24, to help alleviate some of the issues faced by vulnerable learners in the cost-of-living crisis.
Those who would like to apply for support can get more information from their college
Friday September 1st 2023
www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels
NESTLED within the heart of Pembrokeshire, a movement is quietly unfurling, one that speaks of unity, shared aspirations, and a dedication to local prosperity.
The concept of “shopping local” has evolved beyond its traditional definition, transforming into a compelling reminder of the strength interwoven within our communities. As global trade currents shift, there is an echoing call to rekindle our connections with neighbourhood traders, to revel in the craftsmanship found close to home, and to nurture a thriving local economy.
In a world often swayed by the allure of corporate retailers, a latent reservoir of potential resides within our local businesses. The corner grocer, the
family-owned cafe, the boutique exuding unique charm – these establishments embody the very essence of our community’s character. When we opt to invest in these businesses, we aren’t merely acquiring goods; we’re nurturing ambitions, livelihoods, and the collective spirit of our fellow townspeople.
The benefits of this mindful approach are abundant, reaching far beyond the confines of local shopfronts. At its core lies an economic upswing for our communities. Each pound spent in a local business creates ripples much like a stone dropped into a serene pond, touching the lives of all in its vicinity. These earnings flow through the local circuit, enabling entrepreneurs to expand their workforce, offer more generous remuneration, and
significantly contribute to local taxes. This virtuous cycle of prosperity yields elevated public amenities, tidier streets, and a pervasive enhancement in the quality of life for those who have propelled this transformation. However, shopping local is more than a financial decision; it’s a proclamation of authenticity. In an age where assembly lines often overshadow individual craftsmanship, choosing a local artisan signifies a commitment to the human touch. Each product tells a story – one resonating with dedication, passion, and generations of expertise. Whether it’s an exquisitely tailored garment, an intricately handcrafted piece of furniture, or an artwork adorning a wall, these creations encapsulate the very soul of the
community, each bearing a unique narrative to be shared.
The resilience of local businesses becomes most vividly apparent during crises. While global supply chains falter, local enterprises stand steadfast, providing a lifeline for those in need. The challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic underscored this truth, as communities rallied around their local traders, safeguarding their survival through the storm. In such instances, shopping local becomes a declaration of unity,
a pledge to weather adversities by fortifying the foundation of our society.
However, let’s not misconstrue shopping local as a rejection of global commerce; it’s a harmonious interplay of choices designed to align our consumption patterns. It’s a joyous celebration of diversity, offering a diverse array of options tailored to the specific preferences and needs of our neighbours.
It embodies the saying “think globally, act locally,” reminding us that every action, regardless of its apparent scale, carries
profound repercussions. As we traverse the bustling streets of urban areas and the tranquil lanes of our Pembrokeshire towns, let’s remain mindful of our potential as consumers. Let’s recognise that each transaction serves as a ballot cast in favour of the world we yearn to witness. By endorsing local enterprises, we infuse vitality into the very heartbeat of our communities, creating a legacy characterised by resilience, authenticity, and economic vibrancy, destined to echo through generations to come.
www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels
ON SEPTEMBER
1, Cardigan’s Small World Theatre is set to host the distinguished women-led circus theatre troupe, Circo Rum Ba Ba.
These talented performers, known for their dynamic blend of theatre, circus artistry, and character portrayal, will enchant audiences in the Small World’s spacious, tent-like auditorium with their latest touring show, ‘L’Hotel’, proudly backed by Night Out.
Adding a whimsical touch to the theatre, a minuscule Teardrop caravan, christened ‘L’Hotel’, is pitched on the
premises, staking its claim as “the smallest hotel in the world”. Physical theatre aficionados are in for a treat as this pintsized caravan will take centre stage for two captivating shows.
Audience members (deemed special hotel guests for the evening) can look forward to a mesmerising cabaret filled with acrobatics, globe-walking, surprise appearances by historical celebrities, trumpet renditions, and, naturally, a touch of French-inspired mime. The performers promise a seamless transition from dreamy scenes
to exuberant kitchen capers.
With options for both matinee and evening performances, theatregoers won’t want to miss out on this unique spectacle. Secure your tickets at smallworld. org.uk.
For those inspired by the aerial artistry, be sure to explore upcoming courses at Small World Theatre. A fresh term of aerial circus classes is on the horizon. To discover more about Syrcas Byd Bach’s aerial school and the chance to get involved, visit their website.
PREPARE to be dazzled as a pioneering synthesis of vintage arcade gaming and live comedy takes the stage with WiFi Wars, a sensational new show set to grace the renowned Torch Theatre in Milford Haven this coming January. This groundbreaking concept not only revives the cherished spirit of arcade classics but also seamlessly melds cutting-edge technology to craft an interactive experience that’s nothing short of extraordinary.
At the heart of WiFi Wars lies a true testament to technical ingenuity. The show’s creators have ingeniously devised a system that transmits games directly to the smartphones of each and every audience member. This innovative setup fosters both group camaraderie and individual multiplayer engagements, fostering spirited competitions and cooperative gaming moments. The grand crescendo of the show culminates in a breathtaking 360-degree night flight experience, elevating the immersion factor to unprecedented heights.
A central figure in orchestrating this technical marvel is Rob
Sedgebeer, a dedicated programming virtuoso who skillfully navigates the intricate workings behind the scenes. His occasional allusions to technical nuances such as routers lend an air of authentic geeky charm, reminiscent of the beloved series “The IT Crowd.” The intricate technical dance required to flawlessly execute such a dynamic live show underscores the audacious accomplishment of the production.
WiFi Wars seamlessly intertwines interactive gameplay with animated entertainment. Guided by the ebullient host, Steve McNeil, the show boasts his lively commentary, ensuring
the audience remains engaged and in fits of laughter. Enhanced by vibrant illumination, invigorating melodies, and meticulously synchronized onscreen graphics, the atmosphere evokes the spirited ambiance of an exhilarating gaming soiree. The selection of games itself is thoughtfully curated to cater to a diverse audience –from casual gamers to ardent enthusiasts – guaranteeing an inclusive experience that resonates with all. The nostalgic graphics of beloved classics such as “Pong” evoke a sense of nostalgia and jubilation, uniting generations in shared merriment.
Central to WiFi Wars’ allure is its harmonious balance between individual involvement and collective engagement. The show’s design fosters a sense of unity amongst participants while affording each individual a deeply immersive interaction. Frequent leaderboard updates and pulse-pounding sudden-death rounds inject an exhilarating undercurrent, sustaining a heightened sense of anticipation and stakes.
Rob Sedgebeer and Steve McNeil are familiar faces in the realm of entertainment. Their prior venture, “Go 8-Bit,” has transitioned into a television spectacle set to grace the screens of Dave in the forthcoming autumn season. Yet, WiFi Wars stands apart with its emphasis on communal and participatory dimensions. Audiences are irresistibly drawn to the distinctive blend of gaming, comedy, and live interplay that the show promises, ensuring a spellbinding and enduring experience that will undoubtedly captivate for seasons to come. As the curtain rises in January at the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven, brace yourself for a revolutionary odyssey into entertainment enchantment.
Mista Trick Collective is a 7-piece high-energy knees up experience. This musical fusion is in a league of its own, taking Swing & Bass to the next level. Mixing vintage, vaudeville vibes with distinctly down and dirty Drum & Bass, the resulting sound is like the lovechild of a wartime knees-up in an underground rave! Mista Trick was instrumental in developing the popular Swing & Bass label as well as its own club
nights at Hootananny Brixton, London.
After their huge Summer Festival Tour playing at Glastonbury, Boomtown, Wilderness, Beautiful Days, Shambala, Secret Garden Party, Eden Festival, Camp Bestival, Swingamajig & Shindig, Bristol based Mista Trick began to mix live elements into his remixes, introducing musicians, rappers, and vintage swing vocalists Elle & The
Pocket Belles. This soon developed into Mista Trick Collective, the onstage performance of this renowned Swing & Bass DJ’s finest tracks, with a full live band.
‘You’ is the longawaited debut album from Mista Trick. After huge success mixing vintage classics, Mista Trick took on the challenge of creating his own original tracks and adding his now trademark sound. The resulting album
is energetic, eclectic, unique, and a perfect homage to the sounds of the 40s and 50s big band jazz vocal. With four massive tracks released from the album; Do What You Do featuring Kathika (AKA Kathika Rabbit) from Slamboree, About to Blow featuring guest vocal performances from Tenisha Edwards and Blackout JA, and Drive featuring long-time collaborators Elle & The Pocket Belles.
DATE: Sat, 30 Sept
A SYMPHONY of engines roared to life this past Saturday (Aug 26) as tractors, motorbikes, classic cars, and Land Rovers converged on the grounds for the much-anticipated ‘Camrose Vintage Working Day’. The turnout was nothing short of spectacular, with chairman Andrew James proclaiming the 2023 event as “one of the best ever”.
The vintage extravaganza saw over 5,000 enthusiasts and curious visitors making their way throughout the day. “The number of vehicles that turned up to exhibit was tremendous,” an ecstatic James said.
In an unexpected turn of events, the overflow car park was full by midday. A neighbouring farmer generously offered to move his sheep to make room for the burgeoning number of vehicles. But the sea of visitors did not ebb. As the afternoon progressed and more visitors continued to pour in, the accommodating sheep found themselves shifted once again to
facilitate a third overflow car park.
The spectacle was not just limited to the plethora of vehicles. This year’s event boasted an impressive showcase of over 170 tractors, over 100 vintage cars, and a sizeable assembly of Land Rovers and motorbikes. Enthusiasts were also treated to grass mowing and ploughing demonstrations, which piqued considerable interest throughout the day.
Having taken the mantle during the covid pandemic, this marks Andrew’s second show as chairman. He credits the seamless execution and success to the indomitable spirit of the organising committee and the tireless efforts of the volunteers. “We’re extremely fortunate in having an exceptionally strong committee and a team of very hardworking volunteers. It’s thanks to these unsung heroes working diligently behind the scenes that the show continues to be such a great success,” he said, brimming with gratitude.
The Vintage Working Day is not just about
the love for vintage machines; it’s also about giving back. Profits garnered from the show are set to benefit a consortium of 22 charities.
With the bar set high, fans and vintage aficionados will undoubtedly be looking forward to what the committee has in store for the coming year.
Dogs
Channel 5, 8pm
Cameras follow pooches at every stage of their Guide Dog journey, as well as the humans who train and rely on them. It begins with Hester, a visually impaired 16-year-old and Paralympic skiing hopeful who is about to become one of the UK’s youngest guide dog owners. Meanwhile, one-year-old Labrador retriever cross Eva faces the obstacle course.
St David’s Hall. (R)
9.00 Celebrity MasterChef. The last of the semi-final contests.
9.30 The Power of Parker. Kath and Diane try to exact their revenge on Martin. Last in the series. 10.00 BBC News at Ten. 10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop. (R)
11.10 Starstruck. (R)
11.35 Starstruck. (R)
11.55 Film: The Mule. (2018) Drama, starring Clint Eastwood and Bradley Cooper.
1.45 BBC News.
6.30 Escape to the Country.
(R) 7.15 The Repair Shop.
(R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.
10.00 BBC News. 1.00 Impossible.
(R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R) 2.15
Make Me a Dealer. (R) 3.00
Great British Menu: The Finals.
(R) 4.00 David Attenborough’s Natural Curiosities. (R) 4.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00
Flog It! (R) 5.30 Live International
T20 Cricket. England v New Zealand.
10.00 Red Dwarf. The crew sees glimpses of the future, but while Rimmer gets a pleasant surprise Lister is shocked to witness what appears to be his own violent death. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.00 Weather. The latest forecast.
11.05 Cricket’s Greatest Game. A documentary examining one of the sporting world’s best loved games.
12.35 Murder Trial: The Disappearance of Renee and Andrew MacRae. The trial of William MacDowell for the murders of Renee MacRae and her threeyear-old son Andrew in 1976, a case that was one of Scotland’s most notorious unsolved mysteries. (R) 1.35 Sign Zone: Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder visit Nusfjord Arctic Resort in Norway. (R) 2.35 Couples Therapy. (R) 3.00 Rip Off Britain.
(R) 3.45 This Is BBC Two. Preview of upcoming programmes.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R)
4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.00 Backstage. Nest Jenkins is joined in the studio by Fresh Meat actor Kimberley Nixon.
7.30 Emmerdale. Lydia is exasperated by Sam.
8.00 Coronation Street. Ronnie waits anxiously to see if his gamble has paid off, Tim orders Stephen out of Elaine’s flat, and Evelyn warns Tyrone to expect the worst of Cassie.
9.00 The Reunion. Annabelle confronts Richard, and after a meeting with Fanny, Thomas and Manon both learn something new. Mystery thriller, starring Ioan Gruffudd.
10.00 The Reunion.
10.50 ITV News; Weather.
11.20 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
11.35 Film: Spy. (2015) Comedy adventure, starring Melissa McCarthy.
1.35 All Elite Wrestling: Collision.
with the
How Do You Lycett? 10.05 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (R) 11.10 Greg Davies: The Back of My Mum’s Head. (R) 12.10 Film: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. (1986) 1.55 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R)
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40
5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45
Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: Mystery 101: Playing Dead. (2019) 4.00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00
5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out in the Cotswolds. The comedian takes a tour of the Cotswolds, beginning in Tetbury. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Scotland’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Puppy School for Guide Dogs. New series. Cameras follow guide dogs at every stage of their journey – from newborns to trainees and veterans – as well as the humans that both train them and rely on them.
9.00 Jane McDonald: Lost in Japan. The presenter visits a ninja to learn about his world, heads to the famous Tsukiji market to enjoy some wine as well as eating some of the city’s sushi.
10.00 Live Boxing. Lyndon Arthur v Braian Nahuel Suarez.
Yellowstone. (R) 1.00
Casualty
BBC1, 8.30pm
It’s a double bill of the medical drama tonight, and it begins with a case of ‘physician, heal thyself’ as Max’s health begins to fail him. Meanwhile, Faith’s lies are starting to unravel and Teddy looks to Gethin for advice. In the second instalment, Stevie is keeping a close eye on Faith, but it may not be enough to stop her imploding.
6.45 Hey Duggee. (R) 7.00 Supertato. (R) 7.05 Shaun the Sheep. (R) 7.15 Dennis & Gnasher
Unleashed! (R) 7.25 Boy Girl
Dog Cat Mouse Cheese. (R)
7.40 The Deep. (R) 8.00 The Dengineers. (R) 8.30 One Zoo
Three. (R) 8.55 Newsround. 9.00 Blue Peter. (R) 9.30 Deadly 60. (R)
10.00 Super Cute Animals. (R)
11.00 Britain’s Secret Seas. (R)
6.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 6.25
Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 8.20 ITV News.
8.25 Oti Mabuse’s Breakfast Show.
6.00 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
6.10 The Hit List. With contestants from Brighton, Glasgow, Birmingham and London.
6.55 The Weakest Link. Romesh Ranganathan hosts a food and drink special. (R)
7.40 Pointless Celebrities. Jim Rosenthal, Tom Rosenthal, Sonnaz Nooranvary, Brenton West, Kadeena Cox, Lauren Steadman, Mark Wingett and Trudie Goodwin compete in the general knowledge quiz.
8.30 Casualty. Max’s health fails him but he remains in denial, whilst Faith’s lies unravel and Teddy seeks advice from Gethin.
9.20 Casualty. Stevie keeps a close eye on Faith as she implodes.
10.10 BBC News; Weather.
10.30 Match of the Day.
11.55 Film: The Company You Keep. (2012) Thriller, directed by and starring Robert Redford.
1.50 Weather for the Week Ahead.
1.55 BBC News.
12.00 Athletics: Diamond League Xiamen. The Wanda Diamond League Xiamen. 2.00 Film: Scott of the Antarctic. (1948) 3.50 Villages by the Sea. (R) 4.20 The Wedding Dress Shop. (R) 4.50 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. 5.20 Richard Osman’s House of Games. (R) 5.50 Fantasy Film Music at the Proms. An evening of fantastical music from film, TV and gaming.
7.40 TOTP2: Girl Groups. Performances by the Supremes, Spice Girls, the Pointer Sisters and B*Witched. (R)
8.40 Bananarama at the BBC. Archive performances by the pop group.
9.40 Girls Aloud: Tangled Up Live from the O2. Footage of the band’s 2008 tour.
11.15 Labelle in Concert. (R)
11.45 The Spice Girls at the BBC. A selection of performances by the group. (R)
12.45 I’m in a Girl Group! (R) 1.45
Women’s Cricket: England v Sri Lanka T20 Highlights. 2.15 Sign Zone: The Woman in the Wall. (R)
3.10 This Is BBC Two.
9.25 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. (R) 11.35 Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. 12.35 Ainsley’s Good Mood Food. 1.05 ITV News; Weather. 1.15 In for a Penny. (R) 1.45 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars. (R) 2.50 Film: Death Becomes Her. (1992) 4.50 Film: Johnny English. (2003)
6.30 ITV News; Weather.
6.45 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
7.00 The Chase Celebrity Special. Lance Ellington, Beth Tweddle, Bob Champion and Sally Lindsay work as a team to take on one of the ruthless Chasers and secure a charity prize. Bradley Walsh hosts. (R)
8.00 Film: Spectre. (2015) James Bond goes in search of the elusive mastermind behind a secret criminal network with links to his own past. Spy thriller, starring Daniel Craig and Christoph Waltz.
10.45 ITV News; Weather.
11.05 The 1% Club. Quiz hosted by Lee Mack in which the questions are all about logic and common sense, with 100 contestants having a chance of winning up to £100,000. (R)
12.00 English Football League Highlights. 1.10 All Elite Wrestling: All In. (R) 5.05 Unwind.
6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Siwrne Ni. 8.05 Dyffryn Mwmin. (R) 8.25 Byd Rwtsh Dai Potsh. (R) 8.35 Lego DREAMZzz. (R) 8.55 Dennis a Dannedd. (R)
9.10 Rhyfeddodau Chwilengoch a Cath Ddu. (R) 9.35 Gwrach y Rhibyn. (R) 10.00 Ty am Ddim. (R)
11.00 Adre. (R) 11.30 Richard
Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.00
Ffermio. (R) 12.30 Y ’Sgubor
Flodau. (R) 1.30 Cynefin. (R) 2.30
Ein Llwybrau Celtaidd. (R) 3.00
Garddio a Mwy. (R) 3.30 Wrecsam – Clwb Ni! (R) 4.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 5.00 Pen/Campwyr. (R)
5.30 Grand Prix Speedway
Caerdydd. Coverage of the Cardiff Speedway Grand Prix.
8.00 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.
8.15 Priodas Pum Mil. (R)
9.15 Seiclo: Vuelta a Espana.
9.50 Clasuron Cwpan y Byd. (R)
11.25 Pysgod i Bawb. (R)
12.00 Diwedd.
Channel 4: 6.20 The King of Queens. (R) 7.05 Cheers. (R) 8.00
Everybody Loves Raymond. (R)
8.55 The Simpsons. (R) 12.40
Jamie’s £1 Wonders. (R) 1.40 A Place in the Sun. (R) 3.45 Four in a Bed. (R) 6.20 Channel 4 News.
6.50 Matt Baker’s Travels in the Country: USA. (R) 7.50 Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix Qualifying Highlights. 9.20 Film: Taken. (2008) 11.05 Film: Assassin’s Creed. (2016) 1.05 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 1.55
Couples Come Dine with Me. (R)
2.50 Hollyoaks Omnibus. (R) 5.00 Location, Location, Location. (R)
5.55-6.20 Cheers. (R)
6.00 Milkshake! 10.00 SpongeBob SquarePants. (R) 10.15
Entertainment News. 10.25
Friends. (R) 12.20 Bargain-Loving
Brits in the Sun. (R) 4.10 Cruising with Jane McDonald: Down Under. (R) 5.40 When Beach Holidays Go Horribly Wrong. (R)
7.00 5 News Weekend.
7.05 Wallis Simpson & the King’s Road to Ruin. A profile of the socialite, focusing on her early years before she met the future Edward VIII, asking whether she was scheming or one of the most maligned women in history.
(R)
8.15 Philip: Elizabeth’s One & Only. A profile of King Charles’ father, exploring how he dealt with giving up his promising naval career and his surname as he took a back seat to his wife Elizabeth II. (R)
9.20 Buckingham Palace with Alexander Armstrong. A look at what the future holds for the residence. Last in the series.
10.20 Greatest TV Moments of the 80s. (R)
12.15 Scandal: The Major-Currie
Affair. (R) 1.35 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.35 Britain’s Great Cathedrals with Tony Robinson. (R)
4.25 Great Artists. (R) 4.50 Divine Designs. (R) 5.15 Entertainment News. 5.20 Paw Patrol. (R) 5.40 Milkshake! Monkey’s Amazing Adventures. (R) 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)
BBC Four
7.00 Lost Land of the Volcano 8.00
Ray Mears’ Northern Wilderness
9.00 DNA 10.25 Parkinson: The Dr Jacob Bronowski Interview 11.35
Parkinson: Hollywood Women
ITV2
3.10 Film: Ice Age (2002) 4.55
Film: Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016) 6.45
Film: Knight and Day (2010) Comedy adventure, with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. 9.00
Film: Girls Trip (2017) Comedy, starring Regina Hall. 11.30 Family Guy
ITV3
3.50 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 5.00 Midsomer Murders 10.55 Ridley
ITV4
4.00 River Monsters 4.30 Film: Chisum (1970) 6.50 Film: The War Wagon (1967) Western, starring John Wayne and Kirk Douglas. 9.00 English Football League Highlights
10.35 Film: Lucy (2014)
E4
3.50 The Big Bang Theory 6.45
Film: Grease (1978) Romantic musical, with John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. 9.00 Celebrity Gogglebox 10.00 Gogglebox
Film4
2.20 Secret Headquarters (2022)
4.25 Daddy Day Care (2003)
6.15 Catch Me If You Can (2002) Fact-based drama, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks. 9.00 Man on Fire (2004) Action thriller, starring Denzel Washington. 11.55 American Psycho (2000) Satirical drama, starring Christian Bale.
6.00 Breakfast. 7.30 Match of the Day. (R) 9.00 Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg. 10.00 Dealing with Loss: A Believer’s Guide. (R) 10.40 Homes Under the Hammer. (R)
11.40 Bargain Hunt. 12.30 Weatherman Walking. (R) 1.00
BBC News. 1.10 Weather for the Week Ahead. 1.15 Songs of Praise.
1.50 Points of View. 2.05 Live International T20 Cricket. England v New Zealand. Coverage of the third contest in the four-match series from Edgbaston, Birmingham.
6.30 BBC News.
6.50 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
The Woman in the Wall BBC1, 9pm
Those of us who suffer from insomnia will be feeling the pain of Lorna, the character at the centre of this disturbing drama. Her problems with sleep only get worse following a survivor’s funeral, which has shredded her already frayed nerves. But there could be hope on the horizon after information regarding Clemence’s child may lead her to her own daughter.
7.00 Dame Judi Dench Countryfile Special. Judi Dench joins Charlotte Smith at Inveraray Castle to reflect on the impact the countryside has had on her, and fulfils a lifetime ambition to see golden eagles in the wild.
8.00 Antiques Roadshow. New series. Fiona Bruce presents the show from Swanage Pier in Dorset where highlights include a famous pantomime dame’s costumes, a battered watch and Star Wars memorabilia.
9.00 The Woman in the Wall.
10.00 BBC News; Weather.
10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.30 Match of the Day 2.
11.40 Film: Children of Men. (2006) Thriller, starring Clive Owen.
1.20 Weather for the Week Ahead.
1.25 BBC News.
6.20 Glorious Gardens from Above.
(R) 7.05 Countryfile. (R) 8.00
Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00
Beechgrove Garden. 9.30 Life in a Cottage Garden with Carol Klein.
(R) 10.00 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites. 11.30 Mary Berry’s Quick Cooking. (R) 12.00 Food & Drink.
(R) 12.30 Film: The Importance of Being Earnest. (1952) 2.00
Equestrian: Burghley Horse Trials.
Live coverage of the event in Stamford, Lincolnshire. 3.35 Film: The Remains of the Day. (1993)
5.45 Flog It! (R)
6.30 Coast. The stories of some of Britain’s ports and harbours. (R)
7.00 You Shall Go to the Ball: Our Lives. The story of the first debutante of Indian heritage at the Queen Charlotte’s Ball.
(R)
7.30 A Special School. Documentary following life at Ysgol y Der in Penarth. (R)
8.00 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder travel to the highlands of central Sri Lank.
9.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
9.30 The Fast Show. (R)
10.00 Film: Judy. (2019) Biopic, starring Renee Zellweger.
11.50 Golf: Walker Cup Highlights.
12.50 Sign Zone: Claimed and Shamed. (R) 1.35 The Woman in the Wall. (R) 2.35 The Following Events Are Based on a Pack of Lies.
(R) 3.35 This Is BBC Two.
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.15 The Repair Shop. (R) 8.00
Sign Zone: Clive Myrie’s Italian Road Trip. (R) 8.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics Live.
1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R)
3.00 David Attenborough’s Natural Curiosities. (R) 3.30
Back in Time for the Factory. (R)
4.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Jen Brister, Kelvin Fletcher, Ian Moore and Zoe Williams. (R)
The Inheritance Channel 5, 9pm New series. Siblings Sian, Daniel and Chloe are stunned when their father Dennis dies unexpectedly and it is revealed he has left everything in his will, including the family home, to a woman they've never heard of. As they begin to question everything they thought they knew about their father, they become increasingly suspicious that this woman had something to do with his death.
8.30 Would I Lie to You? With Angellica Bell, Bob Mortimer, Suggs and Holly Willoughby. (R)
Being Louis Rees-Zammit.
access to rugby’s new superstar.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Teenage Vaping: What’s the Harm? – Panorama.
11.10 Who Do You Think You Are? Michelle Keegan traces her family tree. (R)
12.10 Have I Got A Bit More 2022 News For You. (R) 12.55 BBC News.
6.00 James Martin’s American Adventure. (R) 6.25 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. (R) 8.20 ITV News. 8.25 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. 9.25
Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 11.25 Love Your Garden. (R) 11.50
Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. (R) 12.50 Ainsley’s Good Mood Food. (R) 1.20
ITV News; Weather. 1.30 You’ve Been Framed! (R) 2.00 Film: Johnny English Reborn. (2011)
6.30
6.45
7.00 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars. Ben Shephard hosts as Harry Judd, Patrick Grant and Angela Barnes answer questions to win turns on an arcade-style machine in the hope of winning £20,000 for charity.
8.00 Beat the Chasers. New series. Contestants from across the UK take on a team of five Chasers.
9.00 Gordon, Gino & Fred: Viva Espana! Gordon Ramsay, Gino D’Acampo and Fred Sirieix head to Spain.
10.00 ITV News; Weather.
10.15 Waco Untold: The British Stories.
11.15 DNA Journey. (R) 12.20 English Football League Highlights. (R) 1.30 Starstruck. (R)
2.30 Motorsport UK. (R) 3.20 Unwind. 5.10 Monster Carp. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Lingo. (R) 4.00
7.30 Emmerdale. Craig hopes he can talk to Lydia about their past.
8.00 Coronation Street. Abi catches Cassie consorting with her old dealer, Max sets off for his first day at college, Ronnie admits his slip-up to Debbie, and Henry declares his feelings for Gemma.
6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw. 9.00 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 9.30 Dau Gi Bach. (R) 10.00 Ffit Cymru 2023. (R) 11.00 Gerddi Cymru. (R)
11.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 12.00 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 12.30 Lle Bach Mawr. (R) 1.30 Y ’Sgubor Flodau. (R) 2.30 Y Gem Gyda. (R) 3.00
Cerys Matthews a’r Goeden Faled. (R) 3.30 Arfordir Cymru: Llyn. (R)
3.55 Ffermio. (R) 4.25 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R) 5.30 Rygbi Indigo Prem. Newport v Pontypool (Kick-off 5.15pm).
7.45 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.
8.00 Cefn Gwlad. Three brothers who have set up individual businesses on the family farm. (R)
9.00 Seiclo: Vuelta a Espana.
9.30 Canu gyda Fy Arwr. Three admirers share the stage and perform with their idol, Shân Cothi. (R)
10.30 Rygbi Cymru: Y Gêm yn y Gwaed. (R)
11.35 Diwedd.
Channel 4: 6.20 Cheers. (R) 7.15
The King of Queens. (R) 8.30 Bake
Off: The Professionals. (R) 9.30
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.50 The Smurfs. (R) 10.05 SpongeBob
SquarePants. (R) 10.15
Entertainment News. 10.20
Friends. (R) 11.50 Police
Interceptors. (R) 12.50 Film: Ever
After: A Cinderella Story. (1998)
3.10 Film: The Proposal. (2009)
5.25 Film: The Holiday. (2006)
8.00 Million Pound Motorhomes.
9.00 Rich Holiday, Poor Holiday.
Two entrepreneurs head off on a budget camping vacation in Lewes, East Sussex, while three friends stay at mansion with panoramic views across Andalucía in southern Spain.
10.00 When Holidays Go Horribly
Wrong. Tales of package holiday disasters, including a family whose Benidorm hotel room looked like a horror film set, and a man who found a huge lizard in the toilet during a Thai tour.
BBC Four
7.00 Pappano’s Greatest Arias 8.00 New Music at the Proms with Tom Service 9.30 Uncle Vanya
ITV2
3.50 Film: The Secret Life of Pets
(2016) 5.40 Film: Marley & Me
(2008) 8.00 Film: No Time to Die
(2021) James Bond thriller, starring Daniel Craig. 11.10
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden.
7.00 Chris and Meg’s Wild Summer. (R)
7.30 Mastermind.
8.00 Only Connect.
8.30 University Challenge.
9.00 Murder Trial: The Disappearance of Renee and Andrew MacRae. A look at the testimony of Renee’s best friend.
10.00 The Royle Family. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Film: Manhunter. (1986) Thriller, starring William Petersen.
1.10 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R)
2.05 Celebrity MasterChef. (R)
3.05 Henpocalypse! (R) 3.35 This Is BBC Two.
9.00 Gordon, Gino & Fred: Viva Espana! Gordon Ramsay, Gino D’Acampo and Fred Sirieix head to Galicia in north-west Spain, starting with a search for shellfish in Cambados with some truly inspirational women.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 You & Me. Romantic comedy drama, starring Harry Lawtey and Jessica Barden. (R)
11.40 Waco Untold: The British Stories. (R)
12.30 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite. (R) 2.20 Tipping Point. (R) 3.10 Monster Carp. (R) 4.00 Unwind.
5.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
Sunday Brunch. 12.30 The Simpsons. (R) 2.05
Film:
Transformers: The Last Knight. (2017) 5.00 The Duchess and Her Magical Kingdom. (R) 6.00
Channel 4 News. 6.30 Formula 1
Italian Grand Prix Highlights. 9.00
Alone. 10.00 Gogglebox. (R) 12.00
Film: Dreamland. (2020) 1.45
Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 2.35 Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.15-6.05 Undercover Boss USA. (R)
11.20 Greatest 80s Songs. Simon Bates narrates this look at the music of 1983, featuring interviews with Toyah Willcox, Paul Gambaccini, Cheryl Baker, Carol Decker, Jenny Powell and other famous faces. (R)
1.20 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.
3.20 Britain’s Great Cathedrals with Tony Robinson. (R) 4.10 Great Artists. (R) 4.35 House Doctor. (R)
5.20 Entertainment News. 5.25
Paw Patrol. (R) 5.40 Milkshake!
Monkey’s Amazing Adventures. (R)
5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley.
12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45
Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film:
Too Close to Home. (2021) 4.00
The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian ventures along the Pembroke coast, starting in Cardigan and follows the coastline south to Carmarthenshire, ending her trip at Pendine Sands. (R)
7.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. Officers attend the scene of a shocking multi-vehicle crash. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Police Interceptors. A runaway car speeds through the Nottinghamshire countryside; 5 News Update.
9.00 The Inheritance. New series. Drama, starring Gaynor Faye.
10.00 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts. An 86-year-old man has complications from ’flu. (R)
11.05 Ambulance: Code Red. (R)
12.05 Police Interceptors. (R)
1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.
3.00 Wild Animal Rescue. (R)
3.50 Britain’s Great Cathedrals with Tony Robinson. (R) 4.40
Hours in A&E. (R) 11.55 Britain’s Most Luxurious Hotels. (R) 12.55 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: Expert Witness. (R) 8.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics Live.
1.00 The Super League Show. (R)
1.45 Impossible. (R) 2.30 Eggheads. (R) 3.00 The Wonder of Animals. (R) 3.30 Back in Time for the Factory. (R) 4.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Jen Brister, Kelvin Fletcher, Ian Moore and Zoe Williams. (R)
Joel Dommett
The National Television Awards 2023
ITV, 8pm
Joel Dommett, who successfully took charge of the ceremony in 2021 and 2022, is back to host the National Television Awards, but will we see any more repeats from last year?
Certainly, a lot of eyes will be on the Presenter category, which has been won by Ant and Dec 21 times, but can they make it 22 in a row?
The Following Events Are Based on a Pack of Lies. Alice befriends Cheryl as a way to get close to Rob.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Kiri’s TV Flashback. (R)
11.10 Boot Dreams: Now or Never. Adebayo Akinfenwa leads a session on using power and size. (R)
12.10 Question of Sport. (R) 12.40 BBC News.
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden.
7.00 Coastal Defenders. The dive team tackle a luxury floating hotel, stranded tugboat and a winter storm.
8.00 This Farming Life. Nikki and Ollie find out if their favourite buffalo is pregnant.
9.00 Ultimate Wedding Planner. The planners create a swinging classic Hollywoodstyle wedding.
10.00 Henpocalypse!
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 T20 Cricket.
12.15 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. (R) 1.15 Couples Therapy. (R) 1.45 Sign Zone: Money for Nothing. (R) 2.30
Celebrity MasterChef. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.
6.30 Escape to the Country. (R)
7.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: See Hear. 8.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 9.00 Nicky
Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 11.15
Politics Live. 1.00 Impossible. (R)
1.45 Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.00
The Wonder of Animals. (R) 3.30
Back in Time for the Factory. (R)
4.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00 Flog It! (R) 5.45
T20 Women’s International. England v Sri Lanka. Live coverage of the third and final match in the series from The Incora County Ground, Derby.
Mel and Martin
Mel Giedroyc and Martin Clunes Explore Britain by the Book ITV, 9pm
The acting friends head to Dorset to explore the spectacular scenery and locations made famous by some of Britain's favourite books and films. They walk in the footsteps of Meryl Streep's French Lieutenant's Woman, stoke up the engine on a steam train ride through Enid Blyton country.
light, a 1960s skateboard and a teddy that accompanied its owner through surgery. (R)
9.00 Celebrity MasterChef. The four remaining chefs create a theatrical showstopping dish to decide who will make it to the final three and face the Chef’s Table hosted by Robin Gill.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Being Louis Rees-Zammit.
11.40 Film: If Beale Street Could Talk. (2018) Drama, starring KiKi Layne.
1.30 Weather for the Week Ahead.
1.35 BBC News.
10.00 Mock the Week: The History Of.. In the first of two episodes commemorating the end of the comedy series, a chance to see again some of the finest moments from the first half of its 17-year history. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather. The latest forecast.
11.15 Surviving 9/11. The stories of 13 people caught up in the events of September 11, 2001, featuring accounts of the two-hour period when terrorists attacked the Twin Towers and the Pentagon. (R)
12.50 Sign Zone: See Hear. (R)
1.20 Ultimate Wedding Planner. The contenders clash over plans for a multi-themed wedding. (R) 2.20 Garden Rescue. (R) 3.05 Celebrity MasterChef. (R) 3.35 This Is BBC
Two. Preview of upcoming programmes.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Lingo. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.00 Emmerdale. Craig sexually assaults Lydia. Caleb makes his entry into the family official. Belle is thrown to see a hint of chemistry between Dawn and Tom.
8.00 The National Television Awards 2023. Joel Dommett hosts the 28th edition of the ceremony, as stars and fans gather for one of the biggest nights in British TV, broadcast from The O2 in London.
10.30 ITV News; Weather.
11.00 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
11.15 You & Me. When Ben and aspiring actress Emma meet through work, they get closer when they find they share similar transformative experiences of grief. (R)
12.10 Long Lost Family. Featuring a man adopted as a baby who wants to tracks down his birth mother, and an 83-year-old woman desperate to find the daughter she has not seen for 60 years. (R) 1.00 The Chase. (R) 1.50 Tipping Point. (R) 2.40 The Reunion. (R) 4.20 Unwind.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Lingo. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Caleb is amused when Cain ropes him in to help with work at the garage.
8.00 Coronation Street. Cassie’s relapse destroys Tyrone’s faith in her recovery, Lauren stirs up conflict between Max and Sabrina, and Ronnie presents Ed with a bank card for the business account.
9.00 Mel Giedroyc and Martin Clunes Explore Britain by the Book. The duo explore locations made famous by books and films.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 You & Me. (R)
11.40 British Touring Car Championship Highlights. Action from Donington Park. (R)
12.55 The Chase. (R) 1.45 Tipping Point. (R) 2.40 Next Level Chef. (R) 3.30 E-Bikes & Scooters: Trouble on the Road? Tonight. (R)
James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Yn y Fan a’r Lle. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Bwyd
Epic Chris. (R) 1.30 Ffermio. (R)
2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Cefn Gwlad. (R) 4.00
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40
5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: Vanished: Looking for My Daughter. (2023) 4.00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea.
5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out in the Highlands. A 140-mile trek from Glasgow to Aberfoyle. (R)
6.55
7.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. Graeme Hall meets an owner struggling to work from home because of his disruptive dog. (R) 7.55 5
8.00 The Yorkshire Vet. A young Irish Wolfhound is in a freak accident; 5 News Update.
9.00 Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure. Dan Walker and Helen Skelton explore the Pennine Way in Cumbria. Last in the series.
10.00 Who Killed Lin &
(R) 1.50 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 2.45 Screw. (R)
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine.
11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: My Mother’s Secret. (2019)
4.00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian’s second run of excursions begins on the Norfolk Broads. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Into the Grand Canyon with Nick Knowles. Part one of two. The presenter examines the mile-deep chasm. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Norfolk and Suffolk: Country & Coast. New series. Celebrating the beauty of Norfolk and Suffolk; 5 News Update.
9.00 James Bulger: The Trial. The story of the 1993 murder trial of Jon Venables and Robert Thompson.
10.30 999: Critical Condition. (R)
11.25 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. PC Niaz Waddington attempts to catch a vehicle with cloned plates. (R)
12.25 Shoplifters & Scammers: At War with the Law. (R) 1.25
6.30 Hollyoaks. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 Geordie Hospital. 9.00 Screw. 10.00 First Dates. (R) 11.05 Selling Super Houses. (R) 12.05 Remarkable Places to Eat. (R) 1.00 Alone. (R) 1.55 Ukraine: Holocaust Ground Zero. (R)
PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.25 Wild Animal Rescue. (R)
Mercury Prize 2023 with Free Now: Album of the Year
BBC4, 9pm
Lauren Laverne presents live coverage of the annual music ceremony from the Eventim Apollo, which sees the album of the year decided from a shortlist of 12 bands and artists –Arctic Monkeys, Ezra Collective, Fred Again, J Hus, Jessie Ware, Jockstrap, Lankum, Loyle Carner, Olivia Dean, Raye, Shygirl and Young Fathers.
6.00 Breakfast. 9.15 Morning Live. Magazine show. 10.00 Critical Incident. 10.45 Expert Witness.
11.15 Homes Under the Hammer.
12.15 Bargain Hunt. (R) 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Doctors. 2.15 Money for Nothing. (R) 3.00 Escape to the Country. (R)
3.45 Garden Rescue. 4.30 The Finish Line. 5.15 Pointless.
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
7.00 The One Show. Live chat and topical reports, presented by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp.
7.30 EastEnders. Ian tries to progress his business deal with Nish.
8.00 Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. New series. Stacey and her team of experts help Tom and Chloe Watling and their two daughters transform their family home through a lifechanging declutter.
9.00 Ambulance. The North West Ambulance Service is alerted about a possible outbreak of the highly infectious Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) at Fairfield General Hospital in Bury.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Match of the Day Wales.
11.10 9/11: Inside the President’s War Room. (R)
12.40 BBC News.
6.30 Escape to the Country.
(R) 7.15 Garden Rescue. (R)
8.00 Sign Zone: Coastal Defenders. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News.
12.15 Politics Live. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads.
(R) 2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.00 The Wonder of Animals. (R) 3.30 Back in Time for the Factory. (R) 4.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00 Flog It!
(R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. (R)
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden.
7.00 The Secret Genius of Modern Life. Hannah Fry uncovers secrets behind trainers. (R)
8.00 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. Methods businesses employ to cope with fluctuating seasonal demand.
9.00 Helping Our Teens. New series. Part one of two. A behaviour expert helps secondary school students.
10.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Couples Therapy.
11.45 Ultimate Wedding Planner. (R)
12.45 Coastal Defenders. (R) 1.45 Sign Zone: Clean It, Fix It. (R) 2.30 Crazy Rich Agents: Selling Dream Homes. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.
6.15 Homes Under the Hammer.
(R) 7.15 Money for Nothing. (R)
8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World.
(R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics UK. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R)
2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.00 The Wonder of Animals. (R) 3.30 Back in Time for the Factory. (R) 4.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00 Flog It!
(R)
Mrs Brown’s Boys
BBC1, 9.30pm
Brendan O’Carroll recently revealed that he has two new comedy ideas in the pipeline. Whether or not one or either will get off the ground remains to be seen. In the meantime, his most famous creation, Agnes Brown, is back for a new run tonight, with the matriarch feeling down in the dumps. Granddad’s bowel movements aren’t helping matters, while the house is a mess.
three finalists must cook and present a three-course meal. Last in the series.
9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys.
10.00 BBC News at Ten. 10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop. 11.10 Starstruck. (R) 11.30 Starstruck. (R) 11.55 Film: Relic. (2020) Premiere. Mystery horror, with Emily Mortimer.
1.20 BBC News.
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Jen Brister, Kelvin Fletcher, Ian Moore and Zoe Williams take part. (R)
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. The chef learns about traditional Sussex cattle.
7.00 Athletics: Diamond League Brussels. The Memorial Van Damme.
9.00 Gardeners’ World. Monty Don plants bulbs in pots, including hyacinths and daffodils.
10.00 Red Dwarf. Lister sits the chef’s exam. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.00 Weather.
11.05 No Activity. (R)
11.30 ODI Cricket Highlights. England v New Zealand.
12.30 Murder Trial: The Disappearance of Renee and Andrew MacRae. (R) 1.30 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. (R) 2.30 Sign Zone: Teenage Vaping: What’s the Harm? – Panorama. (R) 3.00 Couples Therapy. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Lingo. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale.
8.30 Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs. Paul tends to an ill young lurcher pup.
9.00 Coronation Street. Cassie reveals upsetting details of her past to Tyrone, Max fails to cover up Lauren’s meltdown, Aadi prioritises work over pleasure, and a fellow solicitor catches DeeDee’s eye.
9.55 Love & Death: Behind the Scenes. The inside story of the new ITVX crime drama.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 Fishlock’s Choice. Trevor Fishlock is at the site of a former Welsh colliery. (R)
11.15 Gordon, Gino & Fred: Viva Espana! Gordon Ramsay, Gino D'Acampo and Fred Sirieix head to Spain. (R)
12.10 All Elite Wrestling: Rampage.
1.10 The Chase. (R) 2.05 Tipping Point. (R) 3.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Oti Mabuse’s Breakfast Show. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55
ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Lingo. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.15 ITV Evening News; Weather.
6.45 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. France v New Zealand (Kick-off 8.15pm). Mark Pougatch presents all the action from the opening match of the tournament, as the Pool A rivals meet at Stade de France in Paris.
10.35 ITV News; Weather.
11.10 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
11.25 Film: The Queen. (2006) Fact-based drama about how the royal family and Tony Blair dealt with the aftermath of the death of Princess Diana. Starring an Oscar-winning Helen Mirren, with Michael Sheen.
1.05 The NFL Show. Including action from Kansas Chiefs v Detroit Lions. 1.55 All Elite Wrestling: Collision. Hard-hitting action from AEW’s newest show, featuring stars including CM Punk, FTR, The House of Black, Thunder Rosa, Miro, and more. (R) 3.35 Cooking with the Stars. Emma Willis and Tom Allen host the final. (R) 4.25 Unwind. 5.05 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. With Claire Richards and Ben Miller. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Cerys Matthews a’r Goeden Faled. (R)
1.30 Cegin Bryn: Y Dosbarth Meistr. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn
Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Gwyl y Dyn Gwyrdd
2023. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R)
5.00 Stwnsh. (R)
6.00 Gerddi Cymru. (R)
6.30 Pen/Campwyr. (R)
7.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
7.20 Sgorio Rhyngwladol. Wales v Korea Republic (Kick-off 7.45pm).
10.00 Seiclo: Vuelta a Espana.
10.35 Jonathan. (R)
11.40 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R)
6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Chateau
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: Missing and Alone. (2021)
4.00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian explores Cornwall’s coast. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Escaping the Grand Canyon with Nick Knowles. Part two of two. The presenter experiences the Canyon via helicopter and train. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Puzzling with Lucy Worsley: The Semi-Final. Six contestants attempt to qualify for the series’ grand final; 5 News Update.
9.00 The Royal
Kensington & Chelsea. A look at Mosimann’s, a fine dining club favoured by the rich. 10.00
After Dark. A 70-yearold man arrives with a dangerously high heart rate.
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno Aur. (R) 1.00 Ar Werth. (R)
1.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 2.00 Newyddion
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine.
11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: Cradle Did Fall. (2021) 4.00
The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian explores the spectacular peaks of north Wales. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
6.45 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023. France v New Zealand (Kick-
7.00 Aldi: Secrets of the Billion Dollar Discounter. A look at how the German supermarket has succeeded in the UK. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Puppy School for Guide Dogs. Cameras reveal how Ela and her pups are getting on. Puppy midwife Tim is keeping an eye on Ela’s weight loss, but the youngsters are thriving.
9.00 Jane McDonald: Lost in Japan. The presenter explores Kyoto.
10.00 Million Pound Motorhomes.
Debbie McGee and her sister Donna take a trip down memory lane. (R)
11.05 Yellowstone. (R)
12.05 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (R) 1.00
PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00
King Tut’s Last Mission. (R) 3.50
The Funny Thing About Kids. (R)
Film: The Craft. (1996) 2.10 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.00 Come Dine with Me Paralympics Special. (R) 5.10-6.05 Location, Location, Location. (R)
4.40 Great Artists. (R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R)
LADIES and gents of the digital realm, gather ‘round as I unveil to you a digital Eden – Fae Farm. It’s a technicolor marvel, bursting with whimsy and mischief.
At first glance, it seems like your average farming sim: sow seeds, nurture critters, and mingle with villagers. But, hold onto your pixelated hats, for beneath this façade lies an enchanting rabbit hole. Azoria, the vibrant town, paints its streets with a magical palette, where glades sparkle and spooky woods beckon. As you till the earth for crops and bond with quirky characters, you’ll discover the town’s secrets and sprinkle of fairy-touched flair.
Fae Farm casts you as a magic-infused hero, navigating life in Azoria’s cozy enclave. Picture your days: cultivating crops, making friends, and
contributing to the town’s well-being. Life was tranquil, until you arrived, setting in motion a plot as thick as Grandma’s stew.
The first chapters whisk you into this surreal world, where odd contraptions powered by mystical Fae creatures pepper the landscape. Normal crops share space with magical ones, and these, my friends, become your keys to conquering the town’s enigmatic dungeons. Armed with their power, you plunge into evershifting depths, battling monsters and uncovering Azoria’s truths through mission-packed chapters.
Now, the magic of Fae Farm lies not just in its fairy dust, but in its polished mechanics. Planting seeds is smoother than a silken breeze, nurturing critters is serene, and gearing up for dungeon dives balances challenge
and reward. The dreaded ‘grind’ that often plagues farming sims is tamed here, replaced by explorative quests and engaging crafting demands.
Dungeoneering, though requiring prep, is far from a Herculean task. Options abound, floors change, and the rhythm of challenge and achievement remains harmonious. Guided by missions, your path unfurls with a sense of purpose, unveiling Azoria’s mystique step by step.
In this realm, you’re the orchestrator of your adventure. Dash through dungeons, uncover mysteries, or interact with villagers – all within a vibrant sandbox of delight.
Fae Farm maintains its enchanting tempo as it unfurls its tale, with every chapter adding depth
and intrigue to Azoria. Secrets wait in the wings, teasing us like hidden treasures. But, fear not, dear wanderers, for the magic that awaits is pure and resplendent. Phoenix Labs hasn’t reinvented the cauldron, but they’ve certainly stirred innovation into the mix.
Oh, and the cherry on top? Fae Farm can be a shared journey. Friends can fish, farm, and frolic together, enhancing the experience beyond the horizon of solo play.
In a galaxy of farmingadventure sims, Fae Farm strides in with a resounding entrance. It doesn’t strive to rewrite the story, rather it adorns tradition with newfound finesse. Should the tempo persist, mark my words, we’ve got a true contender in the realm of farming simulations.
BU tîm Sefydliad
Arfer Cynaliadwy, Arloesi ac Effeithiolrwydd
Adnoddau (INSPIRE)
Prifysgol Cymru Y Drindod Dewi Sant yn falch o gyflwyno menter
arloesol sy’n cyfuno addysg ac adloniant, gan gyflwyno model rhyngweithiol o fewn y gêm fideo boblogaidd Minecraft.
Nod y prosiect hwn yw hybu Campws
Llambed a’r ystod
eang o gyrsiau sydd ar gael, gan ysbrydoli myfyrwyr i archwilio eu diddordebau mewn adeiladu, pensaernïaeth, yr amgylchedd adeiledig a thu hwnt.
Lansiwyd model
rhyngweithiol Campws
Llambed yn gyntaf yn
Sioe Frenhinol Cymru, lle bu PCYDDS yn falch o gyflwyno ei byd Minecraft
cyfareddol. Rhoddwyd
gwahoddiad i ymwelwyr o bob oed ymdrochi yn y campws rhithiol gan ddefnyddio’r pensetiau rhithrealiti diweddaraf, sy’n cynnig profiad gwirioneddol wych ac ymdrochol. Roedd
gweld cyfranogwyr o gefndiroedd gwahanol yn
archwilio portread digidol o Gampws Llambed yn
dyst i apêl eang y prosiect a’i effaith ddichonol.
Meddai Laura
Cait Driscoll, un o gynrychiolwyr tîm
INSPIRE PCYDDS:
“Buom wrth ein boddau i arddangos ein Campws
Llambed drwy fyd rhithiol Minecraft yn Sioe Frenhinol Cymru. Roedd gweld ymwelwyr o bod oed yn ymgysylltu â’n model rhyngweithiol gan ddefnyddio pensetiau rhithrealiti yn wirioneddol hyfryd. Roedd yr adborth hynod gadarnhaol a
dderbyniwyd gennym yn ein hannog i sicrhau bod y profiad ar gael i gynulleidfa ehangach fyth.”
Yn dilyn lansiad llwyddiannus yn Sioe Frenhinol Cymru, rhoddwyd lle amlwg i fodel rhyngweithiol Campws Llambed yng Ngŵyl Fwyd Llambed ychydig ddyddiau wedyn, gan groesawu rhagor o gyfranogwyr brwdfrydig. Bu mynychwyr yr ŵyl wrth eu boddau yn archwilio fersiwn rhithiol y campws,
gyda phoblogrwydd y prosiect yn dal i godi. Ychwanega Laura Cait:
“Bu’r ymateb o Ŵyl Fwyd Llambed yr un mor galonogol. Bu’n bleser gennym weld brwdfrydedd a chwilfrydedd y mynychwyr wrth iddynt ymwneud â’n profiad rhithrealiti Minecraft. Atgyfnerthodd yr adborth cadarnhaol a dderbyniwyd gennym botensial y prosiect hwn i feithrin diddordeb dwfn mewn disgyblaethau
ymysg dysgwyr o bob oed.”
Gweithiodd tîm INSPIRE yn ddiflino, mewn cydweithrediad â’r dyfeiswyr dawnus Brandon Roberts ac Ian Standen (sy’n rhan o Ysgol Bensaernïaeth PCYDDS), i ddod â’r weledigaeth hon yn fyw, ac mae eu hymdrechion wedi derbyn gwerthfawrogiad ysgubol oddi wrth fynychwyr y ddau ddigwyddiad. Cafodd profiad rhithrealiti Minecraft adborth eithriadol, ynghyd ag awydd i weld yr ymdrech hwn, gyda’i ffocws ar addysg, yn ehangu i ysgolion ar draws Cymru a Lloegr.
Gyda model rhyngweithiol Campws Llambed, mae PCYDDS yn bwriadu llywio llwybr newydd wrth hybu cynaliadwyedd, creadigrwydd a lledaenu gwybodaeth. Drwy blethu addysg â byd chwarae gemau fideo, mae’r prosiect hwn yn ceisio meithrin cenhedlaeth o fyfyrwyr sy’n frwd dros yr amgylchedd adeiledig a thu hwnt, gan hyrwyddo cenhadaeth INSPIRE i yrru newid cadarnhaol drwy ymchwil, arloesedd ac addysg.
MAE S4C yn
cynyddu ei ymrwymiad i bêl-droed menywod, gan fwy na dyblu y nifer o ddarllediadau byw eleni, ac am y tro cyntaf erioed, yn
darlledu 3 cystadleuaeth
ddomestig ac un cystadleuaeth
ryngwladol pêl-droed menywod Cymru.
Y dair gystadleuaeth
fydd y Brif Adran Premier
Genero, Tlws yr Adran
Genero a Cwpan Cymru
Bute Energy, yn ogystal â darlledu uchafbwyntiau’r gemau rhyngwladol yng Nghynghrair y Cenhedloedd.
Mi fydd tymor yr
Adran Premier Genero yn cychwyn gyda Wrecsam yn erbyn Abertawe ac mi fydd y gêm i’w gweld ar S4C ar 17 Medi gyda’r gic gyntaf am 5.45pm. Dyma fydd gêm gyntaf tîm pêl-
droed menywod Wrecsam yn y Brif Adran ar ôl ennill dyrchafiad llynedd.
Bydd Sioned Dafydd yn cyflwyno, gyda’r cynchwaraewyr rhyngwladol
Gwennan Harries a Katie
Sherwood yn dadansoddi fel rhan o dîm Sgorio.
Meddai Sioned: “Mae
poblogrwydd gemau pêl droed menywod wedi
cynyddu gymaint, ac mae’n
wych fod S4C yn gallu
adlewyrchu’r diddordeb
a’r safon gwych sydd yno
ar draws gaeau pêl droed Cymru ar y sianel.
“Mae’n fraint enfawr
cael bod yn rhan o dîm anhygoel Sgorio sydd mor frwdfrydig dros hybu gêm y menywod yma yng Nghymru.
“Mae’r gêm hon rhwng
Wrecsam ac Abertawe am fod yn achlysur a hanner –gêm gyntaf Wrecsam yn y Brif Adran yn erbyn un o’r
clybiau fwyaf llwyddiannus yn hanes y gynghrair, Abertawe. Dyma ddau dîm sydd yn cynnwys chwaraewyr safonol ac arbennig. Mae’n addo i fod yn dipyn o achlysur yn y
Graig.”
Pob nos Lun, mi fydd uchafbwyntiau un gêm o’r Brif Adran Genero i’w gweld ar raglen Sgorio.
Ac yn ogystal â hyn, mi fydd S4C yn darlledu
uchafbwyntiau pob un o chwech gêm Cymru yng Nghynghrair y Cenhedloedd y tymor yma, gan gychwyn gyda Gwlad yr Iâ v Cymru ar 22 Medi.
The closing date for entries is Monday 25th September and the winner will be announced at this year’s Welsh Dairy Show at the United Counties Showground, Carmarthen, on Tuesday 24th October 2023.
THE search has begun for the 10th winner of the NFU Cymru and NFU Mutual Dairy Stockperson of the Year.
The award seeks to champion dedicated, committed and enthusiastic dairy stock managers from across Wales. This year’s winner
will receive £500 and a Welsh slate engraved cheese board.
Jonathan Wilkinson, NFU Cymru Dairy Board Chairman said: “As a dairy farmer, I am very passionate about the agricultural industry and championing those individuals who go the extra mile to ensure they
have happy, healthy cows is important.
“The award aims to recognise the key role that a good dairy stockperson plays in a successful dairy enterprise and the Welsh dairy industry as a whole. Potential award winners will be judged on their care and management of the herd,
the breeding programme, their handling skills, their involvement in the dairy enterprise and their knowledge of the dairy industry in Wales.
“I would urge you all to nominate a dairy farmer or manager in your area who you believe deserves to be recognised for their work within the industry.”
Rhys Williams, NFU Cymru / NFU Mutual Group Secretary for Llandeilo, who will be judging on behalf of NFU Mutual this year, said: “The quality of stockmanship is a major factor in determining the success of any dairy enterprise. We have some superb stockpeople involved in the dairy industry in Wales and I am confident that this will be a keenly contested competition and one which NFU Mutual is pleased to support as the leading farming insurer.” For more information regarding the award please visit the NFU Cymru website where you can download an application form. Alternatively, you can email clare.williams@ nfu.org.uk or call the NFU Cymru office on 01982 554200.
FRESH and frozen sheep meat exports from the UK performed well in the first six months of the year, recording a 14 per cent year-on-year increase - while imports fell considerably.
Some 94 per cent of volume went to markets within the European Union and both France and Germany received an additional 2,500 tonnes and 1,700 tonnes, compared with 2022, according to an analysis of HMRC data detailing January-June UK red meat export performance which features in this month’s Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) Market Bulletin.
“This occurred despite lamb production on the UK market being less than one per cent higher than year-earlier levels,” said Glesni Phillips, HCC’s Market Intelligence, Analysis and Business Insight
Executive. “And as supply in the UK is usually highest during the latter half of the year, we would expect this strong trade to continue.”
The total volume of sheep meat (which includes offal meat too) exported from the UK during the 6-month period totalled 43,400 tonnes – an increase of 16 per cent on the year, while the total value rose by 13 per cent to £277.5million.
Imports of sheep meat saw a decrease of 31 per cent (or 12,800 tonnes) with 28,000 tonnes of sheep meat arriving into the UK during the first half of 2023. Fresh and frozen imported products also experienced a significant decrease of 33 per cent, around 8,000 tonnes less sheep meat from New Zealand than in the comparable period a year earlier.
Shipments from New Zealand still accounted for almost 60 per cent of
the total volume of fresh and frozen sheep meat received into the UK.
“It would seem that this decrease reflects changes to global consumer demand that have impacted on UK import trends. Much of the product from New Zealand and Australia has been shipped into China,” said Glesni.
It was a different story for beef exports however. The HMRC data reveals
the total volume of beef exported from the UK in the January – June period stood at 65,300 tonnes (down 22 per cent), while the value of total exports fell by ten per cent to £287.4million. Fresh and frozen beef export volumes stood at 50,300 tonnes –also down 22 per cent. “Exports are down as much on the year due to subdued demand from consumers in Europe
and because UK cattle prices have been strong, and therefore not as competitive on the global trading landscape,” explained Glesni.
The total volume of beef imported to the UK during the six-month period fell by five per cent on the year to 143,100 tonnes, while the value of imports increased by almost two per cent to £754.7 million. Fresh and frozen imports of
beef volumes were down seven per cent (or 7,700 tonnes) on the year to 109,400 tonnes.
Pork volume exported during the period decreased significantly year on year – by 23 per cent to 151,800 tonnes worth £294.7 million (down just 0.5 per cent).
Total pork imports during the six-month period fell by eight per cent in volume terms to 381,900 tonnes.
“Pork exports are subdued due to the continued contraction of the UK pig herd as cost of production values rocketed for UK producers,” said Glesni. “This is also highlighted in the UK Government figures, which indicate pork production during the six-month period was down 13 per cent on the year at 457,200 tonnes.”
HCC’s August Market Bulletin is available here: https://meatpromotion. wales/en/news-industryinfo/market-bulletin
A TV farmer has hit back after suffering a fierce backlash over his plan to serve squirrel burgers at a two-day North Wales event celebrating the countryside.
Influencer Gareth Wyn Jones, who has a million followers on social media including 750,000 subscribers to his YouTube channel, has been on the end of abuse online since he went public with an appeal for supplies of freshly killed grey squirrel to make the patties.
Gareth will be running the pop-up restaurant Cwtch Kitchen at the Welsh Game Fair, staged in association with the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, at the Faenol Estate, near Bangor, on the weekend of September 9 and 10.
He plans to put the burgers on the menu at the event and is also suggesting serving them in a calzone, a folded pizza.
Gareth, a star of the television series, The Family Farm who farms at Ty’n Llwyfan in the foothills of the Carneddau Range above Llanfairfechan, in Conwy, said: “I’ve eaten it that way in Majorca cooked by Chris ‘Flamebaster’ Roberts for S4C and it would be perfect washed down with a glass of red Rondo from the Gwinllan Conwy vineyard.
“I’ve been deluged with offers of grey squirrel but I’ve had a fair bit of abuse from uneducated people with full bellies too. They’re nuts.”
That included loopy44 who posted: “I think that’s a horrendous idea for burgers - next you will be suggesting seagulls. You are only doing it for notoriety. I definitely prefer to see my squirrels happy in trees.
Hawkeye responded: “You can stick them where squirrels stuff their nuts! Why not rat burgers, same thing but no bushy tail!!!” while imageezer blasted: “The man is sick in the head.”
On Twitter there was: “Exactly what I’d expect from a Neanderthal, backward-thinking mug
like Jones... the sooner we see the back of his industry the better.”
But Gareth has his supporters too and indigodebz said: “Makes total sense to me, we import and transport far too much food.
“Eat local, eat seasonal. I’m up for trying a squirrel burger if they’re genuinely having to be culled and would go to waste otherwise.”
Jonesey added: “I killed, gutted, cooked and ate a couple of grey squirrels many, many years ago … part of a survival course thing. As I remember they didn’t taste particularly good or particularly bad. As the bloke says, a bit like chicken.”
Gareth’s response was: “We should be supporting our native red squirrels. It’s all about getting that message out there.
“Every single grey that’s culled is protecting our native red population so let’s do it.
“Grey squirrels are an invasive species so the more we shoot the better and if we can add value by turning them into tasty food that’s even better.
“Even in the USA they’re a pest. They have Douglas red squirrels in Washington state and they’re being affected by the greys so people are encouraged to shoot them.”
Apart from the culinary delights of the Cwtch Kitchen, there is a mouthwatering programme of
airgun shooting, clay pigeon shooting and gundog handling and to learn how to survive in the wild with bushcraft master Huw Jones of Ynys Twca.
The event is also an important fund-raiser for countryside charity the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust – a 92-year-old charity that conducts vital research into Wales’s most vulnerable species and a major retail event with 150 stands including major clothing and equipment brands alongside small independent retailers and artisans.
from the University of Exeter Business School have been involved in developing a new service that matches landowners with developers to ensure that building does not damage the environment through nutrient pollution of our waterways.
activities over two days at the famous estate above the Menai Straits which hosted the Royal Family for the Investiture of King Charles as Prince of Wales at nearby Caernarfon in 1969.
At the heart of the event is the main arena which will stage a rolling programme of events and displays including demonstrations by the Clwyd Axemen and wildfowler Chris Green, the Cornish Countryman, and teams of spaniels and retrievers battling it out in the Four Nations International.
Angling is well represented and compered by world champion Hywel Morgan, son of the legendary Moc Morgan, and an internationally recognised expert in his own right who will also be hosting the UK Casting Championships.
Rural issues of the day will be addressed in the Countryside Conversations Theatre while there’s also the chance to get hands-on at a range of activities including archery, fishing,
James Gower, chief executive of Stable Events which organises the show, alongside The Game Fair and the Scottish Game Fair, said they’re aiming to double last year’s attendance figures and get 20,000 people through the gates this time.
He said: “Our aim is to celebrate everything that is best about the countryside and rural pursuits, including the wider benefits of conservation and field sports.
“We’ll have gundogs, clay shooting, archery, fishing, food and falconry - not to mention the amazing shopping at the wide range of stalls.
“Over the two days we have a jam-packed itinerary of displays, demonstrations, havea-go attractions and exhibitors.”
The Welsh Game Fair is open each day from 9am to 5.30pm with free parking and children under eight admitted free. For more on the Welsh Game Fair go to https:// www.welshgamefair.org/
This transparent, fair, and efficient way of reducing pollution unlocks developments that will deliver hundreds of much-needed new homes.
The Somerset Catchment Market enables developers to meet their nutrient neutrality obligations by finding landowners in the county who can deliver nature-based projects on their land, providing accredited nutrient mitigation.
The first market round is expected to unlock over 200 dwellings, including individual homes, small to medium housing developments and multioccupancy buildings such as care homes.
Brett Day, Professor of Environmental Economics at the University of Exeter
Business School, said: “It’s clear the current system of one-to-one trading of nutrient mitigation has failed, and this is holding up housing developments. However, this doesn’t mean we should abandon protecting the environment. With careful market design, we believe thousands of homes can be built while protecting the environment.”
Dr Luke Lindsay, a Senior Lecturer in Economics, said: “To progress stalled building projects, developers must find ways to take nutrients out of our rivers. Landowners can construct nutrient-capturing wetlands or woodlands. The market we have designed matches developers with landholders, allowing building work to progress while protecting the environment and ensuring a fair outcome for all parties.
The Somerset Catchment Market will reduce costs and the hurdles involved in building work, allowing much-needed housing to be completed.”
Mammal Surveys Coordinator at PTES, stated, “The sight of roadkill might be unsettling, yet it provides vital data on the mammal populations in specific regions. An abundance of roadkill can even indicate a thriving mammal community in the vicinity. But, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the status of our mammal species and which ones require our intervention, we need the public’s participation.”
THIS AUTUMN, travellers traversing the roads of England, Scotland, and Wales are being encouraged to keep their eyes peeled for unfortunate casualties on our highways - and it’s all for a good cause.
The People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) has launched a free application, called ‘Mammals on Roads’, aimed at aiding wildlife conservation by documenting roadkill.
Whether you’re motoring in your car, touring in a campervan, or heading across the country on a coach, PTES urges everyone to be part of this nationwide initiative. The user-friendly application, available on both the App Store and Google Play, is geared for the most experienced wildlife enthusiast to the complete novice. It features vivid illustrations and audio guides, assisting the user to identify and record mammals, from the familiar hedgehog or fox to the less common wild boar.
David Wembridge,
Britain boasts roughly 55 terrestrial mammal species that are either indigenous or naturalised. Whilst most participants of the ‘Mammals on Roads’ project are anticipated to record more prevalent species like rabbits, foxes, and badgers, it’s equally crucial to note rarer sightings of species like pine martens or weasels that inhabit our woodlands and countryside.
Hedgehogs are a prime example of what volunteers will be on the lookout for. A recent photograph provided by Ricky Wood, available in high resolution, shows one of these spiky critters on a concrete surface, emphasizing the juxtaposition of wildlife and urbanisation.
For those engaged in the digital realm, PTES is also hoping for a bit of hashtag help. By using #MammalsOnRoads on social media platforms, awareness can be raised, encouraging more to participate and, in turn, better support our native wildlife.
To delve deeper into the expansive conservation efforts of PTES or to join in this initiative, visit their official website at www.ptes.org or search ‘Mammals on Roads’ on your app store of choice.
AFTER a refreshing summer break, children throughout Wales are settling back into their school routines. While many are thrilled to be reunited with friends and dive into their studies, some might find the transition challenging.
Some youngsters may be apparehensive about returning because of the presence of bullies or the fear of a challenging academic year ahead. As guardians, it’s essential to engage in open conversations about these concerns, even if everything appears fine on the surface.
If a child displays anxiety or reluctance about going back to school, there are numerous ways to support them. Encourage them to share their feelings and concerns. They might find it helpful to write down the things they enjoy about school and list what worries
them. Discussing these lists can offer clarity and comfort.
Always remind them that if they ever
need to talk, they have various options, be it family, teachers, or professional counselors.
The NSPCC’s Childline
counselling service provides a confidential platform where children can talk to trained professionals any time of
day or night. Additionally, the Childline website has various resources like the Art Box and the Mood Journal, which can help children express their emotions. They also offer moderated message boards where children can connect with peers, sharing experiences and learning how others have coped with similar challenges.
To further ease the transition, ensure children have a good night’s sleep, preferably without distractions from electronic devices. Having their uniforms and school equipment prepared the night before can also alleviate morning anxieties.
It’s essential to remember that while we always hope for a smooth transition, challenges can arise. With open communication and the right resources, children can feel more confident and prepared for the academic year ahead.
OVER 200
Pembrokeshire College A-level and Diploma students are heading off to some top university destinations including Cambridge, Veterinary Medicine and Medical School after achieving outstanding results this summer.
A-level student
Madeleine Draycott (A*A*A) will be taking up her place at the University of Cambridge to read Psychology while Timali Jayathilaka (A*A*A), is heading to Cardiff University to read Medicine.
A-level successes also include: Joseph Jenkins (A*A*A*A*), University of Bath to read Maths and Computer Science; Ella McKernan (A*A*A*), University of Bristol to read Chemistry; Jay Coombe (AAA), University of Bristol to read Biochemistry; Jasmine Morris (AAB),
University of Nottingham to read Neuroscience and Psychology; and Leon Delaney (A*AA), Swansea University to read Mechanical Engineering.
Further A-level student university destinations include: Leicester, Durham, Exeter, King’s College London, and Liverpool.
Proving that the Diploma route is a credible alternative to
A-levels, BTEC Applied Science learner Anya Thomas achieved Distinction* grades and is heading to the University of Central Lancashire to read Veterinary Medicine while Amy Wilson, who also achieved Distinction* grades, is heading to Cardiff University to read Architecture.
Other vocational success stories include
Evie Berridge who is heading to Stella Mann College of Performing Arts to study Performing and Professional Dance and Ciaran Craig who is heading to the University of Gloucestershire to study Paramedic Science with fellow Diploma students taking up places across the UK to study a range of subjects including Nursing, Criminology, Animation and VFX, Veterinary Medicine, Cyber Security and Forensic Science.
After receiving this year’s results, College Principal Dr Barry Walters commented: “We are incredibly proud of both our A-level and our vocational learners who have worked extremely hard to secure their places at university.
“The exam period saw levels of extreme anxiety but the perseverance and commitment of our
learners, supported by an exceptional team of teaching and support staff, has paid off with more than 200 learners now progressing to universities across the UK, to study a vast array of programmes.
“Our results are on par with the national averages and are higher than the national comparator for A* grades. An incredible achievement for our learners and one which we hope will set the course for their university studies.
We wish them all the best of luck and hope that they will keep in touch as they progress through their studies and into their future careers.”
For further information on the courses available at the College contact Admissions on 0800 9 776 778 or go to pembrokeshire.ac.uk/ courses
AHEAD of the world premieres of the new Kodiaq and Superb generations, Škoda is unveiling their completely redesigned interiors, featuring a digital cockpit, a head-up display and a 12.9inch free-standing infotainment display. The DSG gear selector has been moved to the steering column, now giving front passengers more space, while a roomy centre console offers more storage. Enhancing onboard operation, the customisable Škoda Smart Dials allow for easy control. Each rotary push-button provides intuitive access to various vehicle functions, and a digital display ensures a quick, comprehensive overview at any time. In a move toward greater sustainability, Škoda now uses upholstery made from 100% recycled polyester for both the new Kodiaq and Superb.
Peter Olah, Head of Interior Design at Škoda Auto, explains, “Škoda interiors stand for intuitiveness, simplicity, customer focus, and smart solutions. Our latest innovation, Škoda Smart Dials, has expanded the intuitive options for controlling the car’s functions, combining the best of both worlds: physical controls and digital displays. The fresh interiors of the Kodiaq and Superb now feature a large, free-standing display, a steering columnmounted gear selector, and an uncluttered centre console. These enhancements have paved the way for a more spacious and cosy interior that not only catches the eye but also offers practicality and genuine added value for our customers.”
MInnovative new features for even more comfort onboard
Škoda has redesigned the interiors of both upcoming models, including enhancements to the steering wheel, instrument cluster, dashboard, and decorative trim. A Škoda first: the gear selector has moved to the steering column in both models, making it particularly accessible. As a result, the centre console has a tidy, clearly structured layout, opening up additional space for the front passengers. Other firsts in the Kodiaq and the Superb include a head-up display complementing the 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit, and a freestanding central infotainment display that is larger than ever, measuring 12.9 inches diagonally. Also debuting in both models, Škoda Smart Dials are innovative rotary push-buttons that cleverly integrate haptic and digital components for a more intuitive experience.
Škoda Smart Dials: Push-buttons with digital displays
With the introduction of Škoda Smart Dials, the Czech carmaker is taking the proven
combination of haptic and digital controls in its vehicles to the next level. This entirely new approach consists of three rotary pushbuttons below the infotainment screen, each with a 32-millimetre digital display. These allow quick access to numerous vehicle functions based on the equipment level. The two outer Smart Dials for the driver and front passenger control the interior temperature, seat heating, and seat ventilation, displaying the currently active function. The centre Smart Dial controls up to four different functions, such as the infotainment volume, fan speed, air direction, smart air conditioning, driving modes, and map zoom. The central Smart Dial is configured via the infotainment system menu, and holding the button down switches between functions.
Expanded range of Simply Clever features
The quest for enhanced comfort onboard is evident in the new additions, including the Phone Box with fast inductive smartphone charging capabilities of up to 15 W – and in the Kodiaq, this extends to two phones – paired
with an active cooling function. Additionally, passengers benefit from up to four USB-C ports with a power output of 45 W, as well as a convenient 15 W USB-C port on the rearview mirror. Not to be overlooked, the new Kodiaq is available with ergo seats complete with a pneumatic massage function. Rear-seat passengers will also appreciate a fresh storage compartment in the centre tunnel. In the Superb, a redesigned steering wheel, instrument cluster and decorative trim elements blend seamlessly with enhanced optional massage seats. These now include ten pneumatically controlled massage cushions and an extensive selection of programs, with four-way adjustable lumbar support.
Matching the Kodiaq, all heating functions for the seats, steering wheel, windscreen, and rear window can be conveniently managed via a configurable Heaters button in the climate control menu.
Sustainable materials for all textiles and two popular Simply Clever features
Škoda demonstrates its commitment to
sustainability by using environmentally responsible materials for all interior textiles, as well as for two iconic Simply Clever features: the umbrella in the driver’s door and the ice scraper. Continuing the approach of other Škoda models, the traditional equipment lines have been replaced by the Design Selections concept: In the Kodiaq, customers can opt for Loft, Lounge, or ecoSuite in Black or Cognac, with textiles crafted from 100% recycled polyester. The leather in the ecoSuite Design Selection benefits from an eco-friendly tanning process using coffee bean processing residues. For the fourthgeneration Superb, the Essence trim level includes the Design Selection Studio, with choices for the Selection trim level encompassing Loft and Lounge, as well as the Design Selection Suite in Black and Cognac. The top L&K model extends the offer with the Design Selection L&K Suite in Black and Cognac, boasting leather sustainably tanned using wastewater from olive processing.
HEALTH Minister
Eluned Morgan has launched a new policy to support people waiting for treatment, which will help prevent some of the 6,000 lastminute cancellations of treatment on the NHS in Wales.
The 3Ps Waiting Well Policy will ensure that support and information is easily accessible to those who waiting for treatment.
The 3Ps are: Promoting healthy behaviours, Preventing deconditioning whilst waiting, and Preparing for treatment and recovery.
People waiting for treatment will get one single point of contact at the health board, who will listen to their concerns, advise on healthy behaviours to better manage their symptoms and signpost them to a wide variety of resources and services.
They will also help people prepare for treatment to ensure they get the best results, this will include access to services like exercise classes, in-person or remote.
Some health boards, like Hywel Dda, are already providing these services, but this new Welsh Government policy will ensure these services are available across Wales by the start of next summer.
Between April 2022 to March 2023, there were 6,350 lastminute cancellations of procedures.
Of those postponed:
H• 4,860 procedures were because the patient said they were unfit for the procedure.
• 300 were because the patient
had a pre-existing medical condition.
• 1,130 were because the hospital said the patient was unfit with an acute illness.
• 60 were because they were unsuitable for a day case procedure.
Health Minister Eluned Morgan said:
“We know that effective preparation is vital for people to get the best results from their treatment, and it can help prevent last minute cancellations.
“Last year in NHS Wales there were over 6,000 last minute cancellations, many due to ill-health. Last minute cancellations mean wasted resources – it’s a loss of consultant and
surgeon time when that space could have been offered to someone else.
“With the 3Ps policy, people will be empowered to take responsibility for their own health and wellbeing, with information and support available via a range of resources and formats to enable people to achieve a healthier lifestyle.
“It will also empower people to better selfmanage their condition whilst waiting, providing advice on pain management and what to do to if their symptoms deteriorate.
“Support will also be provided on how to best prepare for treatment and recovery. This will prevent lastminute cancellations and ensure people get the best results from their treatment. By keeping
in regular contact with the people waiting for resources, health boards can also better plan for postponements if needed.”
Earlier this week the Minister visited the Waiting List Support Service and the Virtual Orthopaedic Prehabilitation Service in Hywel Dda University Health Board which has been running since 2021 when it was set up in response to the COVID pandemic.
Mandy Rayani, Director of Nursing, Quality and Patient Experience at Hywel Dda University Health Board said:
“The Waiting List Support Service provides a valuable service to patients in the Hywel Dda area who are waiting for treatment. Our staff are available to support and
advise individuals on a broad range of issues –from physical fitness to general wellbeing - and work with them to ensure that they are as fit as possible and ready for their treatment when the time comes.
The service is aimed at ensuring that patients are fit and ready, supported while they wait, and help us to minimise the number of procedures that need to be cancelled and rescheduled due to patients worsening health conditions.”
Eluned Morgan added:
“The service in Hywel Dda is a best practice model which will be rolled out across all other health boards in the next 12 months. This will see patients benefit and services improve across Wales.”
Board.
Mr Severs, who will start in post on 6 November 2023, brings over 14 years of working as an allied health professional at a range of health trusts in England.
His most recent roles have been with Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust where he currently holds the role of Chief Allied Health Professional with responsibility for allied health and health sciences.
Steve Moore, Chief Executive at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “We are delighted to have appointed James to this role, and we look forward to welcoming him to our Hywel Dda family in a few months.
James is a passionate leader of allied health professionals and health scientists, and I am confident that he will make a positive and lasting contribution to our team and the broader communities we serve.
“James’ appointment follows the retirement of Alison Shakeshaft as
Executive Director of Therapies and Health Science who left Hywel Dda at the end of July and whom I would like to sincerely thank for her numerous contributions over the years and wish her all the best in her next adventure.”
James said: “I am thrilled to be appointed to the role of Executive Director of Therapies and Health Science and look forward to collaborating with colleagues across Hywel Dda in delivering the health board’s ambitious strategy in this area.
“Therapies and Health Sciences have a crucial part to play in supporting the health and well-being of individuals within our communities – helping people to stay better for longer and supporting individuals to recover – a key element of the health board’s long term strategy. I am excited about joining the team and helping to lead this important agenda for the communities of mid and west Wales.”
r Severs is originally from Liverpool and
started his career as a paramedic after graduating from Coventry University. He holds a postgraduate degree in Paramedic Science, gained from the University of Hertfordshire. James stepped into leadership roles while working for University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust and Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust before being appointed as the Director of Physical Healthcare at St Andrew’s Healthcare in Northampton.
James continues to work clinically as a paramedic and teaches on nationally accredited life support courses for Resuscitation Council (UK). Away from the office, James enjoys being outdoors and coastal walks and is looking forward to experiencing the beauty of the Welsh coastline. James currently lives in Bristol and will relocate to the area as he commences in his new role later this year.
MORE than 400,000 extra graduates will be needed in Wales by 2035 in order to respond to skills gaps and workforce challenges of the future. This is the finding of new report, Jobs of the Future, by Universities UK.
• By 2035, 95% of new jobs in Wales will be at graduate level, with 88% of UK jobs set to be at graduate level.
• UK businesses will need more than 11 million extra graduates by 2035, with the fastestgrowing demand for graduates seen in STEM, health, education and business services
• Welsh universities hailed for fostering valuable skills and experience in emerging industries, including robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
More than 400,000 extra graduates will be needed in Wales by 2035 in order to respond to
skills gaps and workforce challenges of the future. This is the finding of new report, Jobs of the Future, by Universities UK (UUK), which estimates that 95% of new jobs in Wales by 2035 will be at graduate level.
Meanwhile, a survey of FTSE 350 companies carried out alongside the report shows that businesses are setting their sights firmly on the Welsh talent pool, with one in five looking to recruit talent from the Cardiff area over the next five to 10 years.
Across the UK, more than 11 million extra graduates will be needed to fill jobs by 2035, with the fastest-growing demand for graduates seen in STEM, health, education and business services. There are currently 15.3 million graduates in the UK workforce, so this represents a significant increase in demand.
The rise of AI in particular is expected to have a significant impact on employment trends, with graduates set to benefit from this rapidly growing area.
Due to AI, there will be around a 10% net increase in UK roles that require a degree over the next 20 years, including almost 500,000 more professional and scientific jobs.
The Institute for Creative Entrepreneurial Development (IICED) at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has integrated AI into its teaching framework. This significantly enhances the entrepreneurial capabilities of students, a vital need given the burgeoning demand for AI competence in the job market. By leveraging AI, the PGCert Enterprise Skills programme integrates a unique blend of self-paced learning and interactive, collaborative experiences that mimic real-world scenarios. IICED understands that real-world experience significantly enriches learning, which is why placements that allow students to work directly with AI are also integral to the programme.
These significant changes to the
employment landscape also underline the increasing importance of lifelong learning. More than half (54%) of respondents to the FTSE350 survey said that they expect the future workforce will need to retrain at least once in their career due to the rapid pace of technological change.
Universities Wales’ Director, Amanda Wilkinson, said:
“More than a quarter of the current UK workforce are underqualified for the job they are in – and the many years of unbroken growth in demand for graduates means we are playing catch-up to give our employers the tools they need to succeed.
“From health and tech to digital skills and education, university graduates are a vital component to the success of the economy, but it is important that we are given the tools to continue to meet this need – and to ensure that higher education is affordable and accessible while maintaining the high level of education
our institutions currently provide.”
Alex Hall-Chen, Principal Policy Advisor for Sustainability, Skills, and Employment at the Institute for Directors, said:
“Persistent and acute skills shortages is one of the most pressing concerns for UK businesses. The demand for transferable skills –such as critical thinking and communication –remains strong across all sectors, and the UK’s higher education sector will play a crucial role in building a talent pipeline with the skills that businesses need to thrive.”
In highlighting the need for more skilled workers, UUK has hailed Welsh universities for fostering highly soughtafter skills and experience in emerging industries – from integrating AI into curricula and teaching frameworks, to supporting graduate startups in virtual reality and developing cutting edge robotics technology.
ICE hockey fans, rejoice – the new season is just starting up for the Cardiff Devils, and with it, an exciting new partnership.
Penderyn, the Welsh whisky giant based in Brecon, is the upcoming season’s Man of the Match partner with the Devils –with the brand supporting 80 different awards across the 40 matches to come.
Penderyn’s a brand that’s always been passionate about sport – and this latest link-up holds lucrative benefits for both parties. Not only will it help to bring Penderyn’s brand to ice hockey fans across the country, but the Devils,their staff and fans will benefit from some exclusive Penderyn perks, too.
“We’re big fans of the Devils here at Penderyn, and this next season is going to be massive for both our brands,” says Giancarlo Bianchi, Commercial Director of the Welsh whisky brand.
“While a lot of people might assume Welsh sport starts and ends at rugby, we’re a nation of hockey lovers, too – and we’re thrilled to show support for one of Wales’ best-loved teams.”
The Penderyn-Devils partnership will see Man of the Match winners presented with a bottle of Penderyn Madeira Finish, bottled in the distillery’s house style.
What’s more, players
will also get the chance to enjoy a guided tour of the Penderyn Swansea Copperworks Distillery, which opened in July this year. There’ll also be opportunities for on-site tastings and presentations with major sponsors across the season too.
“We’re excited to partner with such an iconic Welsh brand for the season ahead of us and we’re delighted to
have Penderyn Distillery as our ‘Man of the Match’ sponsor.
“The partnership not only highlights the true talent we have in Wales, from a sports perspective, but also in producing premium Single Malt Welsh Whisky, together we help elevate Wales as a nation!” added Todd Kelman, Managing Director of Cardiff Devils Ice Hockey Club.
“The Man of the Match award is very prestigious,” says Bianchi. “It’s the same in every team sport – but with ice hockey, players have to work extra hard to keep on their toes. It’s an accolade every player wants to take home at some point in the season, and it’s wonderful to have Penderyn join that experience.”
“We’ve worked carefully to create a partnership with the Cardiff Devils that supports the players, the fans, and the teams behind the scenes. What’s more, we really think this is the Devils’ season – we have every faith!”
The Cardiff Devils remain one of the most recognisable British ice hockey teams, and as such, are icons of Wales –much like Penderyn in the whisky world. Both brands continue to put Wales on their respective maps, making this partnership all the stronger.
Penderyn has a history
in supporting Welsh sporting talent. During Wales’ football World Cup campaign in 2022, the distillery bottled a series of themed whiskies to present to the national side before they headed to Qatar – with the help of actor Michael Sheen.
In 2023, however, Penderyn’s taking to the ice – and with it, a raft of perks for players, coaches, and fans await.
There’s something electric about ice hockey,” says Bianchi. “You can’t just go to one game – it’s exhilarating.”
“The Devils are due this year – there’s going to be some good fortune coming their way, and Penderyn will be there to support them through thick and thin.”
Penderyn will partner with the Cardiff Devils across the 2023/24 season, with branding and Man of the Match partnering debuting from late August.
Secretary, Suella Braverman unleashed onto our TV screens, blaming all the woes of her and her Party’s policy on dealing with the asylum backlog, on everybody else, but themselves.
Last wee k, the Home Office’s own released statistics show that the asylum backlog has reached a record high, with 175,457 people waiting for an initial decision on their claim as of the end of June.
This is up by 35%, from 122,213 people, from the same time period last year, despite Rishi Sunak’s promise to clear the asylum backlog by the end of this year.
139,961 asylum seekers, at the end of June 2023 are awaiting an initial decision on their asylum application. Up 44% from 122,213 at the end of June 2022.
Commenting on the figures, Liberal Democrats’ Home Affairs Spokesperson Alistair Carmichael MP said: “These statistics prove that yet again, the immigration system is just not working under this Conservative Government.
immigration system that works for the UK and our economy, while treating everyone with dignity and respect. This would include:
- Scrapping the arbitrary salary threshold for work visas and creating a truly meritbased system.
- Reinstating the six month service standard to help clear the asylum backlog.
- Giving asylum seekers the right to work after waiting for 3 months for a decision.
Unfortunately, the Conservatives have removed legal routes to claiming asylum/refugee status in the UK from ALL, except those fleeing Ukraine and Hong Kong. The Government refers to anyone coming in on boats as illegal migrants and many Brits have picked up on this and call them illegals.
THERE comes the point in every career when someone needs to put a friendly arm around a colleague’s shoulder and say: “C’mon, mate, that’s enough.”
It’s worth remembering it’s better to leave on your terms than get the dreaded vote of confidence from the boss or have the door smack you in the arse as you’re pushed out of it.
them. The legislation it’s passed with significant effects is manifestly illthought-out and does nothing but create duplication, bureaucracy, and waste.
At the end of the last parliamentary term, the Welsh Government finally passed its Agriculture Bill. It has no money to
S“British employers are struggling under the burden of the Home Office’s exorbitant fees and pointless red tape. The asylum backlog remains sky-high, despite Rishi Sunak’s promises. Returns are still shockingly low.
T“It’s time for the Home Secretary to stop grandstanding and finally get serious. That means tackling these failures and creating an immigration system that works for the UK and our economy, while treating everyone with dignity and respect.”
The Government is making plenty of noise about the cost of keeping asylum applicants in hotels at £6m a day and has been trying to find alternative places to house them, including a barge off Portland, that continues to be beset with problems.
The Liberal Democrats are calling for an
t is the total incompetence of the Home Office that has got worse under Suella Braverman. They have created the huge backlog by not providing the resources to deal with the applications. No wonder so much is spent on hotel bills. If Braverman and the Home Office were on top of the influx, decisions could be made to allow them to stay or to be removed. But we hear silence on this issue. This should be the priority and it would cost the taxpayer less.
f more legal routes were created, it would reduce the numbers attempting to cross the Channel in flimsy boats that has claimed lives when some of the boats unsurprisingly get into trouble. And with so many job vacancies in the economy going unfilled, why aren’t they allowed to work?
If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales
You might wonder what this has to do with Andrew RT Davies and this article’s title, but so bizarre and - frankly - bonkers has the Welsh Conservative leader’s social media pronouncements become that, even when confronted with the truth, he persists in a lie as though it was an article of faith. Or, putting it another way, the Vale of Glamorgan county councillor running his social media does.
The Welsh Government is making the best case for the Conservatives without Andrew RT Davies blundering along in his big green wellies.
The Welsh Government has mishandled its Budget. It’s run the Welsh NHS into the ground in a stew of unaccountable quangos and such confused lines of communication and accountability that it is culpable in the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of care home residents during the Covid pandemic.
The Welsh Government has passed Acts upon which it’s added baubles as though it were a child hanging decorations on a Christmas tree. It’s unaccountable and wants to increase its unaccountability.
Much of the legislation it’s passed is of such minuscule effect that it needn’t have wasted parliamentary time on
or Air Passenger Duty, both of which the Welsh Conservatives have incidentally long supported, Keir Starmer’s UK leadership is studiously quiet on promising penny one from either.
The Welsh Government’s creation of a client state of hangerson, lobbyists for special interest groups, and the sheer waste of public money on propping up third-sector groups delivering governmental responsibilities results in governance through patronage and clientage.
Welsh Labour’s howls about the venality of Westminster Conservatives and their pals who got onto the VIP lane for Covid contracts distract from its just as corrupt patronage network that favours the friends of friends who know someone who wants Welsh Government money for a pet project.
As the Labour MS Mike Hedges said: “Far too often, the Welsh definition of capitalism is how much money can we get out of the Welsh government.”
Unlike England and Scotland, the Welsh Government stands firm in its resistance to registering lobbyists.
It amazingly claims its members and officials did not meet once with Wales’s largest public lobbying company in six years - unless you count leaked dinner dates. That sort of malarkey makes it easy to conclude the Welsh Government’s underlying culture is either as bent as a fourpound note or so selfinvolved and incestuous that it genuinely sees no difference between the public interest and the interests of those to whom it chooses to listen.
For all the noise about getting Wales’s share of the HS2 money
Finally, in a new act of folly, the Welsh Government wants to fund a shadow broadcasting authority for Wales. There’s no sign that broadcasting will be devolved to Wales within this Welsh parliamentary term or the next Westminster one.
Like many Welsh Government announcements, it’s froth, spin and a waste of public money.
Instead of focusing on the Welsh Government’s many and repeated failings, the extent of which is barely touched upon above, Andrew RT Davies has developed an exciting strategy based on insult, misrepresentation, and outright lies.
Dipping into his social media feed reveals three popular topics with Glamorgan Gasbag.
Firstly, his implacable opposition to the Welsh Government’s introduction of a 20mph speed limit.
Secondly, the foolish suggestion that Keir “Slippery” Starmer is deliberately avoiding scrutiny while Rishi Sunak spends time in California catching up with Taylor Swift.
Thirdly, an entirely dishonest claim that the Welsh Government wants to give “illegal immigrants coming to Wales £1600”.
Let’s deal with these in order: the Welsh Conservatives unanimously backed - including Andrew RT Davies - calls for a 20mph speed limit. There’s a handy photo attached to this article to remind you
and him of that.
Apart from that, there are very good reasons Mr Davies and the Welsh Conservatives struggle to lay a glove on Labour on introducing 20mph speed limits.
The national speed limit on A-roads, dual carriageways, non-urban roads and roads outside settlements remains 60mph. On the M4, the speed limit is still 70mph. Most routes around schools or through busy town and city centres are already 20mph or lower. In addition, local authorities decide which roads and routes follow which speed limits. That has always been a local authority power. It remains one.
There are potential adverse impacts of introducing 20mph speed limits. There will undoubtedly be an economic cost over twenty-thirty years. Still, insufficient attention has been given to offsetting benefits, such as the number of lives saved and the potential to shift from reliance on cars in areas already (and in the Welsh context, the adverb is important) relatively wellserved by public transport.
The Conservatives have good points to make about 20mph speed limits. Ironically, some were made for them by Pembrokeshire County Council Deputy Leader Paul Miller (Labour). But alarmist blathering is not
As Summer comes to a close and we look forward to a new academic term across schools, and a new term of politics at the Senedd, I wanted to reflect on one of my personal highlights of the summer; our agricultural shows across Wales which celebrate everything great about Welsh farming.
The shows are a not only a deep-rooted tradition in British and Welsh culture but are an outstanding opportunity to showcase all that Wales has to offer, from our food and drink industries, to our fantastic livestock farmers.
getting them anywhere.
Shrill and hectoring is a bad combination for an approach to a policy the Conservatives backed in the Senedd.
It doesn’t take much to draw a direct line between the outcry fuelled by the Londonbased Conservative tabloid media against the extension of London’s Ultra-Low Emissions Zone (the creation and planned expansion of which are Conservative policies) and the 20mph furore the Welsh Conservatives are trying to incite.
Aiming for the lowest common denominator in communications is not limited to speed limits, as we shall see later in this article.
Politicians’ promises and manifesto pledges were taken with a pinch of salt even before Boris Johnson lied his way to the top.
Andrew RT Davies’s Twitter feed slams Keir Starmer’s shifting policy positions and describes him as “Slippery Starmer”. It suggests that he believes in getting into Downing Street and will say anything to get there. Once there, we must never forget Sir Keir, a lefty lawyer, was a member of Jeremy Corbyn’s Shadow Cabinet who will unleash the full horrors of socialism
upon the UK.
So far, so infantile.
As we’ve seen with the 20mph limit and ULEZ, Conservative views certainly change. It’s reasonable to ask why Mr Davies thinks Labour should be held to a higher standard.
While the above is facetious, it’s worth recalling some of the important things the Conservatives have changed tack on. Let’s start with Andrew RT Davies himself.
Before the 2016 Referendum, Mr Davies was an enthusiastic Brexiteer. He surrounded himself with Taxpayers’ Alliance and BluKip fellow travellers. He peddled every line about reclaiming sovereignty, the economic bounty that awaited Wales and the UK, taking back control of the UK’s borders, and - most importantly - a pledge he made to the Welsh people that they would not lose a penny when it came to replacing EU funding.
Seven years later, the economic bounty has certainly not materialised. The UK remains a lowwage, low-skill, low-output economy. The supposed Brexit shot in the arm for “Global Britain” has instead sedated UK growth and trade.
Import controls on EU goods were supposed to come into force years ago. This week, they were pushed back to 2024.
That’s the fifth delay to their introduction. It places UK businesses at a massive trading disadvantage in their major export market.
However, it will keep UK prices down and help reduce the inflation rate for consumers. That is real politics in action. If one accepts Andrew RT Davies’s superficial premise that politicians can never change their minds, he must be fuming with his Westminster colleagues.
But he should be used to change. Mr Davies has seen five different Conservative Prime Ministers in his periods as leader. They each followed their own agenda and policy priorities. Mr Davies has backed all of them. His loyalty is serial and unconditional. As the times and leaders have changed, so has Mr Davies.
During Mr Johnson’s premiership, the number of policy switchbacks was bewildering. No border in the Irish Sea became a border in the Irish Sea. A final deal with the EU became a basis for negotiating a new deal. Forty new hospitals became minor building works here and there. £350m extra a week for the NHS was never a serious pledge. It was Boris being Boris.
During the Covid pandemic, Mr Davies repeatedly railed against the Welsh Government’s
Minister and will continue to use this role to stand up for Welsh farmers as we look towards this political term at the Senedd.
It is largely through this Summer’s agricultural shows which I have been able to continue to meet with, and listen to, the needs of our farmers and farming communities to ensure I am equipped with all I need to continue to fight your corner in the Senedd. This has been enabled through meetings at the Royal Welsh Show, Pembrokeshire County Show, Pembroke Town and Country Show, and the Martletwy Show, with individuals and organisations such as the FUW and NFU Cymru.
Welsh farming is the foundation of Wales’s £7.9 billion food sector, with 53,000 of the 239,000 people employed across the Welsh food and drink sector, employed on Welsh farms. These farmers not only work year-round to produce world-class food and implement sophisticated breeding built on generations of experience, but are pioneers of global climate change initiatives shown within their commitments to targets such as reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
It is these farmers and families who protect the land, celebrate animal welfare standards, and consistently deliver the highest quality Welsh food to our tables. The agricultural shows across Wales not only give us an opportunity to celebrate our world-renowned produce, climatefriendly production, and the millions of pounds contributed to Wales’s economy by our agricultural industry yearon-year, but also more importantly, the farmers and families behind this produce. Without their hard work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, working alongside the somewhat temperamental Welsh weather system; we simply would not have food on our tables.
It is for these reasons, to name a few, that I cherish my role within Welsh Parliament as the Shadow Rural Affairs
These meetings have facilitated discussions around key, current, agricultural topics such as Welsh Government’s new 10% tree planting initiative as part of the Sustainable Farming Scheme, bovine TB and wildlife, and the slaughtering of in-calf cows and heifers due to TB as opposed to allowing a choice by the farmers who themselves understand the animal and the situation. These debates and the ongoing issues surrounding them such as the uncertainty around the inclusion of hedgerows in the 10% statistic has provided farmers with uneasiness about the future. I will do all I can at the Senedd to gain clarity and certainty for you moving forward.
Reflecting on this Summer and the statistics which continue to reinforce the importance of this industry and all it brings to the Welsh economy, it is so important for the national economy, Welsh language and heritage, our culture, and for our communities locally and nationally, that we continue to celebrate all that is agriculture with these fantastic shows which bring together so many, and thank our farmers and farming families for all their hard work.
As always, if I can ever be of any help, please do not hesitate to contact me via Samuel.Kurtz@ Senedd.Wales.
Llongyfarchiadau
– Congratulations!
to students from all over Pembrokeshire who have received their exam results in recent weeks.
The end of August marks a new chapter for our young people as they embark on their future career path whether that be at college, university or through an apprenticeship. This year, that step might feel more challenging given the ongoing financial impacts of the cost-of-living crisis.
The Welsh Labour Government has announced an increase in support to help those wishing to continue their studies through this period of high inflation with a 6.5% increase to the Financial Contingency Fund for 2023 to 2024. It is designed to help alleviate some of the issues faced by vulnerable learners in the costof-living crisis but other types of support are also available. To find out more visit: https://tinyurl.com/ WGstudenthelp.
In my role as Minister for Health and Social Services, I have launched a Wales-wide policy to support people waiting for NHS treatment, which will help prevent some of the 6,000 lastminute cancellations of treatment on the NHS.
Building on good practice within the Hywel Dda Health Board area, the Waiting Well policy will be rolled out in all parts of Wales by next
summer. This new approach means that patients will benefit from a single point of contact for their care so that they can seek advice on how best to manage their symptoms. That point of contact will also help prepare people for treatment to ensure they get the best results, this will include access to services like exercise classes, inperson or remote.
The majority of the 6,000 cancelled procedures last year were because patients weren’t ready for treatment they were due to receive. By working together we will reduce this number meaning fewer wasted appointments and better clinical outcomes.
It was lovely to see the sun shining at the County Show earlier this month. The show felt like it had really bounced back with a great attendance on both days. A huge thanks to everyone involved in making this unique event a success. As always, it was a great opportunity to catch up with familiar faces and to hear of the work of those involved in the many and varied organisations that positively contribute to life in Pembrokeshire every day.
If I didn’t see you at the show but you have an issue that you’d like to raise with me, you can contact me through my office by calling 0300 200 7264 or by email at eluned. morgan@senedd. wales.
approach only to go quiet when Mr Johnson announced he would do the same thing. In some cases, the reversals came a few hours after Mr Davies made a fool of himself in the Senedd by following Mr Johnson’s original line.
Changing position is political maturity. As the times change, so must policies. Politicians change their policy positions over time. A politician who cannot adapt to changing circumstances is as useful as a fart in a colander.
It’s like the evolution of language. A language hedged about with protections that shield it from change ends up unable to describe the world as it is.
Migration into the UK has markedly increased. Having driven out many European workers, the UK - unable to replace them from within its population - has accepted more immigrants originating outside the EU to fill the gap.
Failing to plan for legal migration meant the Conservatives could not deal with those entering the country other than through official channels. There are complex reasons for this, but they boil down to propositions that even Mr Davies must
understand:
(1) The UK Border Force is hopelessly underfunded and overstretched;
(2) The Royal Navy is hopelessly underfunded and overstretched;
(3) The reduction in legal routes to entry, accelerated under Tony Blair over twenty years ago, forces asylum seekers to seek other routes for entering;
(4) There’s been a Conservative Government in Westminster for the last thirteen years. It has singularly failed to grasp any part of the immigration process and fund it properly.
(5) Asylum seekers are not “illegal immigrants”, nor are they “refugees”. A person entering a country seeking asylum or applying for settled status for some other reason is subject to a process determining their status. That process decides whether they are truly refugees, persons with a right to settled status, or migrants without a reasonable cause to claim refugee status. Once that process ends, those in the final category who enter the UK unlawfully and do not leave under their own steam are liable for deportation;
(6) Failing to process asylum applications and promptly deport those not entitled to refugee or settled status encourages
more people to try to enter the UK. They do so expecting that their cases will not be decided for years. Incidentally, Boris Johnson once proposed an amnesty for those remaining in the country illegally after their applications for refugee status were refused;
(7) Far from being an extra imposition on the UK taxpayer, the cost of housing migrants waiting for a decision (claimed to be £5m a day by Rishi Sunak) comes from within the existing overseas aid budget. The people losing out by the UK funding the accommodation are not UK taxpayers but those in need overseas.
We can be confident that Andrew RT Davies is bang onside with £5m daily being used to deliver aid worldwide, as are all concerned about housing migrants in hotels. There can be no other honourable explanation for their stance.
(8) The UK has binding obligations under international law towards those seeking entry to the UK. Those obligations are enshrined in law that UK legislators, mostly Conservative, helped write.
Breaching international laws or abandoning its obligations under them diminishes the UK’s influence overseas. It calls into question the UK’s reliability and good faith in
other negotiations. Global Britain brings global responsibilities. Little Britain was a comedy sketch series.
Incidentally, the European Court of Human Rights is not an EU body. It’s a body under the Council of Europe. The UK, under Churchill, helped design both the Council and the Court. The UK remains a member of the Council of Europe. Leaving the EU did not affect the UK’s basic obligations to the EHCR.
Let’s suppose Mr Davies knows all of the above.
He must. He leads the Welsh Conservatives. Sort of.
He’s a man in the loop, briefed on all the facts and figures.
So why did he say this?
“The Welsh Labour Government [are] dishing out £1,600 to anyone who wants to rock up and claim they are crossing the Channel illegally.”
It doesn’t even qualify as a simple misstatement or exaggeration.
It’s a flat lie.
The truth is straightforward.
The Welsh Government guarantees all care-leavers a £1600 universal basic income in an ongoing experiment.
The Welsh Government asked the UK Government if it could extend its trial to include asylum seekers leaving care. That usually means those who entered the country as unaccompanied children or were taken into care for other reasons by local authorities after entering the country with others.
Care-leavers are among the most vulnerable members of society. They face many disadvantages in accessing higher education, working, and securing homes. Those who entered the country as children and went into care are especially vulnerable. They also are a tiny minority of a tiny minority of Welsh children.
Whether or not you agree with the principle of a universal basic income is immaterial to the underlying context that demonstrates the naked untruth of Mr Davies’s position.
The Welsh Government did not propose giving £1600 a month willy-nilly to “anyone crossing the Channel”. It did not propose anything like that. But Mr Davies keeps repeating his lie again and again through his Twitter feed.
Confronted with the truth, he doubled down. He claimed he’d never meant his remarks to apply to all asylum seekers, only to be confronted - once againwith the facts. In this case, remarks he made to GB
News. You couldn’t make it up, but Mr Davies is.
If you accept the purpose of his social media account is to attract attention, spread the Conservative message and persuade voters, it is reasonable to ask what voters Mr Davies is aiming to persuade to vote Conservative by lying about “illegal immigrants” getting £1600 a month from the Welsh Government.
He might have concluded that every vote counts. Even those you get scavenging in the gutter or the political sewer.
The real problem for the Welsh Conservatives is one of leadership. A leader leads his party. Mr Davies is not the leader of the Welsh Conservatives. He is only the leader of its Senedd Group. David TC Davies, the publicly combative but personally charming Secretary of State for Wales, has good claims to be the Welsh Conservative leader, as does the Party’s Welsh Chair, Tomos Dafydd Davies.
Mr Davies is less a leader than a loudspeaker. Someone else provides the words and broadcasts them in his stead. That’s certainly true of his Twitter account, which is managed for him by a
Vale of Glamorgan county councillor.
Other Conservatives are unsettled by Mr Davies’s apparent indifference to the truth and what is being put out there supposedly on their behalf. However, his position as Conservative Senedd Group leader is secure.
Party members like Andrew RT Davies. They were never reconciled to his departure as leader. He is their delegate to the Senedd. Their voice. He speaks of them and their prejudices and concerns when he speaks.
That, of course, is part of the problem. By reflecting a handful of narrow sectarian concerns, Mr Davies’s communications lack consistent wider appeal.
Alongside those factors, the senior members of his Shadow Cabinet are serially unappealing to potential voters, each other, and the Party membership. The leading senior candidates would split the Senedd group in weeks or six months.
The younger Senedd members with long-term leadership ambitions lack experience. The more independently-minded of them are also mindful of chaining themselves to a possibly catastrophic result in a UK General Election.
It is also worth noting what Mr Davies has dead
IN THE FINAL part of this four-part article, YesCymru Director Geraint Thomas asks once again, who cares enough about Wales? Do enough people care to make a difference?
I believe enough of us care about the future of Wales and its future generations. All of us care enough to understand that something needs to give, change must happen for things to improve. After all, Wales has form across the centuries. Wales has made things happen. Culturally we have long done so collectively, we are a nation of community.
right. The Welsh Government’s agriculture policy is a bad joke that runs the risk of gutting rural communities. Its climate change policy is a costly and empty tokenistic gesture. Its transport policy is a calamity. The Welsh Government’s posturing liberalism on social issues turns off working-class voters. The Welsh NHS is in perma-crisis. The Welsh Government’s ducking of a Wales-specific Covid inquiry is an example of gross and shameful buckpassing and responsibility dodging. Nearly a quarter of a century of Welsh Labour rule over a devolved government has left Wales poorer and with pockets of deeply embedded child poverty. In a functioning democracy, that would do for most governments. However, the Conservatives can never form a devolved government under their own steam. That means Labour has almost a clean run at carrying on its merry way and making the case against devolving more powers to Cardiff on its own. That leaves the Conservatives as the principal opposition party. Effectively articulating the failings the Welsh Government has made, is making, and continues to make means there’s no need for Andrew RT Davies to make up stuff about them.
amass enough passion, desire, and belief, if it can agree on a clear vision of its end goal, then that campaign can and will succeed.
Perhaps in this age, with its vast digital landscape, our forums and public spaces are different. The days of crowds at hustings and debating events might be over. Debate and discourse are often now keyboardto-keyboard rather than face-to-face. Will we ever see the days of vast political gatherings again? Something we Welsh have historically enjoyed!
Perhaps, but either way our online spaces will be part of the modern landscape of multiple platforms of engagement and communication. The gelatinous nature of politics and belief binds people together. It can also lead to toxic echochambers of extremism which foster ignorance and even hatred.
History tells us that, eventually, people will find a collective voice when change becomes imperative. How this voice is projected will be as varied as history itself. Voices will emerge from introverted cocoons to become voices of reason in debate in the bar, the canteen, or around a kitchen table. This might develop into an affiliation with organised campaign groups. It might result in a desire for activism, and the need to ‘do’ something in the interests of change.
Campaigning is the culmination of the activism of the collective, seldom of the individual. If a collective can
In our journey towards an independent Wales, our message is strong and clear: Wales needs to gain independence in order to thrive as a nation in the twenty-first century. To do so for the benefit of all its citizens. The campaign is rooted in the confidence of the possible, through discussions, debate, and discourse. The front lines of the campaign are pubs, workplaces, community centres, cafes, homes, clubs, parks, and pavements.
However, even a grassroots campaign must be organised. We must accept the reality today that any campaign needs resources in order to succeed. A membership organisation like YesCymru only succeeds through the efforts and activism of its network of members. It is in the work of many members, doing the small things, that it can support a sustained multifaceted campaign across all the communities of Wales.
If enough of us do care, and care enough, we can grow the campaign not only through sheer numbers, but through the strength of a massmovement campaign. The goal is clear, and the message is clear. So ask yourself: do I care? And more importantly in building a successful campaign, do I care enough? Do enough of us care enough?
If you care about Wales’ future and are interested in joining the campaign for a free and independent Wales, please visit www.yes. cymru
Written
by YesCymru
Geraint Thomas. Another version of this article was published by Byline Cymru on 31stMarch 2023.
Director,
M ICHAEL
W ILLIAMS
Michael Williams of Roch
Peacefully at his home in Roch on 24th August. Michael, beloved husband of Pam, dearly loved father and father in law of Nicky and Mark, Tim and Nic, a devoted grandfather of Karly, Will, Tom and James and a much loved great grandfather. Funeral service Wednesday 6th September at 11.00am in St.Mary’s Church, Roch followed by Cremation in Parc Gwyn at 12.15pm. Family flowers only, donations if desired for Paul Sartori or Prostate Cymru c/o W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, 62 New Street, St.Davids SA62 6SU.
E DITH L INDSEY
N ICHOLAS
Mrs. Edith Lindsey
Nicholas Pembroke
Dock The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Monday 14th August of Mrs. Edith Lindsey
Nicholas of Bush Street, Pembroke Dock. Devoted wife of the late Brian, she was 66 and will be greatly missed by all her loving family. The funeral will take place on Wednesday 6th. September with a service at St. John’s Church, Pembroke Dock at 11.00.am followed by interment at Llanion Cemetery and the family would be delighted if an item of bright clothing was worn. Flowers will be welcome and may be brought to the service or sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.
B ERYL H OWELLS
Mrs Beryl Howells of St.Davids. Beryl passed away at her home in St.Davids on 23rd August. A dearly loved mother, grandmother,
sister, relative and friend. Funeral service on Friday 8th September. 10.30am at Seion Baptist Chapel, New Street, St.Davids to be followed by burial in St.Davids Cemetery. Family flowers only. Enquiries to W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter, St.Davids 01437 720537
PATRICK J OHN
D OYLE
MR. P. J. DOYLE PEMBROKE
Peacefully, at home, on Monday 21st August 2023, Patrick John Doyle aged 82 years of Mansel Street, Pembroke. Beloved husband of the late Marilyn. Devoted companion of Babs. Dearly loved father and father-in-law. Treasured Bamps to all his grandchildren. Much loved brother, brother-in-law and uncle. Funeral service will be held on Thursday 31st August at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 2.30pm.
Family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired, for The Paul Sartori Foundation c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 & Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk
DAVID W ILLIAM
J OHN BARRETT
Mr. David William John Barrett Milford Haven The death occurred peacefully at his home on Friday 25th August of Mr. David William John Barrett, aged 86 years of Meyler Crescent, Milford Haven. Dearly loved husband of the late Janice, devoted father and father-in-law of John and Angela & David, cherished grandfather of David, Natasha, Jessica, Shane & Gethin and adored great grandfather of Tomos. The funeral service
will take place on Friday 8th September at 12.15pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Black attire not necessary. Family flowers only, donations if desired may be sent to The Paul Sartori Foundation, Paul Sartori House, Winch Lane, Haverfordwest, SA61 1RP. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.
C OLIN T HOMAS
Colin Thomas of Haverfordwest Colin passed away peacefully on the 13th August, 2023 aged 90 years. Dearly loved, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Funeral service, Monday 4th September, 11.30am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Donations, if desired, in memory of Colin for the Alzheimer’s Society can be sent directly to 43-44 Crutched Friars, London,
EC3N 2AE online at www.alzheimers.org.uk or via the donation box provided on the day. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.
LEWIS Mona Formerly of Maenclochog Peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Wednesday 23rd August, Mona of St. Teresa’s Rest Home, Fishguard and formerly of La Bastille, Maenclochog. Beloved wife of the late Dewi, loving mother of Morwen, Pam and Moira, respected mother in law, cherished grandmother and great grandmother. Public funeral service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Saturday 2nd September at 1.00 pm. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired towards St. Teresa’s Rest Home c/o Dennis Jones Funeral Director, Maesawelon, Efailwen, Clunderwen. SA66 7UX Tel 01994 419561
DEAR SIR
I recently visited north-west Turkana, an extremely remote and vulnerable region of Kenya. Malnutrition is all too common here. Drought has been killing livestock – people’s main source of income – and forcing them to depend on others for their basic needs.
I work for Mary’s Meals, the school feeding charity that provides meals for 2.4 million children every school day, across 18 countries. The promise of a nutritious meal brings children into the classroom and gives them the energy to participate in lessons and work towards a better future.
We provide training, equipment, ingredients and support so communities can run the school feeding programme themselves, with volunteers turning up every school day to cook and serve the meals. In Kenya, our programme reaches more than
100,000 children living in poverty and facing food insecurity.
My visit took me to Akalaliot pre-school in Turkana, where around 300 children receive Mary’s Meals every school day, and it was a hive of activity. I wondered where everyone had come from, since for several miles there were no buildings or dwellings in sight.
I was told Akalaliot is situated between a few small villages, roughly two to three miles away. And for those living on the other side of the mountains, it’s a five or six-mile walk. Despite these vast distances, the children had come for the nutritious meal of maize and beans. As they cleared their plates and bounced to their feet with renewed energy, it was amazing to see the difference these meals are clearly making.
Being able to offer a meal to children, consistently, at school and equipping them to learn and gain skills for their future has a transformative effect on communities made vulnerable by poverty, conflict, and climate change. It costs
just £19.15 to feed a child for a school year with Mary’s Meals, so even small donations can have a big impact. Until 29 September, if you’re able to set up a regular gift to Mary’s Meals, your first three donations will be tripled (by a group of generous donors, up to £150,000).
I’d like to invite your readers to visit marysmeals.org/tripled to find out more about our work – and help to bring hope to more hungry children like those I met in Kenya.
Alex Keay Director of Programme Affiliates and Partners, Mary’s Meals International ,DEAR SIR
If contaminated air in London contributes to the premature deaths of numerous asthma patients – both young and old – it is evident that daily, the health of
its 8 million residents is compromised.
During my tenure at Abadan refinery in the 1950’s, I witnessed the addition of lead to petrol, a dangerous compound known to detrimentally affect every organ, notably the brain. Despite the cessation of this practice, its lingering effects have gone uncompensated and largely unrecognized. While many, including the current Conservative government, may opt to overlook the health repercussions of polluted air, the long-term costs cannot be ignored. A surge in patients with health issues may inflate medical costs, leading to potential tax hikes. This is not to mention the adverse effects on commerce and industry, as ailing workers might demand higher wages, leading to drops in productivity and intensified conflicts between management and unions.
Certainly, private hospitals present an alternative for those who can afford it. However, as these institutions vie for profits, the quality and
integrity of care might be compromised. Relying solely on a system driven by profit can be perilous, as private entities might prioritize revenue over holistic patient care.
It is indeed a perilous choice to disregard the clear biological impacts of polluted air for immediate financial gains. The complexities of health and environmental well-being cannot simply be reduced to monetary terms. The issue at hand is clear: the quality of our air is crucial, not just for our lungs, but for our overall well-being.
C. N. WestermanWe are keen to invite your readers to consider applying for our Local Places for Nature initiative, which has recently re-opened.
It’s a great scheme where hundreds of community groups and
organisations benefit from free gardening packages.
Since launching in 2020, more than 1,000 gardens of all shapes and sizes have been created or enhanced across Wales by groups including community services, youth groups, sports clubs and charities like Nuture Centre in Carmarthen and many more.
The Starter Package is ideal for anyone in Carmarthenshire looking to take on a small wildlife or small food growing project. And don’t worry if you don’t know where to start – our team is on hand to advise and support on how to put your plants, tools and materials to best use.
Local Places for Nature was first introduced to help fight climate and nature emergencies, but benefits have now reached far beyond creating vital habitats, with new gardens helping bring communities together and providing a much-needed boost to people’s health and wellbeing. We really hope that these spaces continue to be enjoyed for generations.
We’ll prioritize projects with strong community links and spaces in towns and cities or areas with limited or no access to nature.
We’re also really keen to hear from Wales’ underrepresented groups – our team is on hand to help with your application, if needed.
To apply for a Starter pack, head to www. keepwalestidy.cymru and check out
#BacktoNature across our social media channels for updates and all the latest news.
Yours faithfully, Amy Hines Keep
Wales Tidy Project Officer
support the implementation of a 20mph speed limit in purely residential areas, considering the significantly higher survival rates associated with accidents at this speed. However, the idea proposed by Mr. Drakeford of a blanket 20mph limit throughout Wales warrants further consideration. Scientific studies have shown that fossil-fueled vehicles consume up to an additional litre of fuel at 20mph when compared to 30mph. This would inadvertently result in increased fuel consumption, potentially leading to more pollution across Wales.
DEAR SIR
I write to express both my agreement and concern regarding the proposed speed limits. I wholeheartedly
,
It’s crucial that our policies are grounded in a comprehensive understanding of all their implications. I hope that decision-makers will revisit this proposal to ensure that we are taking the most effective steps towards a safer and environmentally conscious Wales.
CARAVANS
CLEARANCES
CAR PARTS
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FENCING, DRIVEWAYS AND LANDSCAPING
HAIRDRESSING
CARPENTRY
CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHY
FABRICATION
GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING
HANDYMAN
OVEN CLEANING
RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL
RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL
STORAGE TANKS
TRAILERS
PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH
SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE
VAN CONVERSIONS
PODIATRY
SCRAP METAL
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TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTERS
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01834 482022
P EMBROKESHIRE is poised for an electrifying weekend as athletes and fans converge for the muchanticipated Ironman Wales event, set against the picturesque backdrop of Tenby.
TThis year’s spectacle is unique, being staged on its earliest-ever date, Sunday, September 3. While the scheduling has raised concerns from local businesses about potential infrastructure strain during one of the busiest weekends, Ironman has underscored its commitment to the event while addressing the worries of the community.
SThe decision to keep this year’s date was backed by the event organisers, Ironman, who pledged to engage closely with local enterprises. Acknowledging the concerns raised by nearly 100 local business representatives who signed a petition urging for the event’s cancellation, Ironman is
proactively collaborating with businesses to bolster the promotion of regional products and services. An eye toward next year, Ironman has slated September 22 as the date for the 2024 edition to accommodate these concerns.
Approximately 3,000 athletes are enrolled for the 2023 Ironman Wales competition, with a significant 93% hailing from the UK and the remainder representing countries like Germany, Switzerland, and France. The event boasts more than just athletic prowess; it’s a convergence of sporting icons as well. This year, alongside familiar face Shane Williams, Alix Popham, former rugby player, will be tackling the challenge in support of his charity, Head for Change. The charity pioneers positive change for brain health in sports and aids former rugby and football players grappling with neurodegenerative diseases stemming from
their professional athletic careers.
The iconic Ironman Wales opening unfurls against the sun-kissed North Beach with athletes assembling to the lilting Welsh National Anthem. Race director Rebecca Sutherland lauds the unwavering support of the Pembrokeshire community, creating a unique and stirring atmosphere on race day. The emotional resonance of the national anthem at the swim start is an experience she believes every triathlete should encounter at least once in their journey.
The endurance trial begins with a 2.4-mile swim, followed by a challenging ascent up the North Beach zig-zag and a town traverse culminating in the bike transition at South Beach car park. The cycle leg navigates a captivating 112-mile route encompassing south Pembrokeshire’s coastal and rural landscapes. The marathon stage consists of
a four-loop course around Tenby, with exuberant spectators rallying behind the athletes as they cross the finish line beneath the famed Ironman Wales arch on the Esplanade.
Mayor of Tenby and former Ironman contestant, Cllr Dai Morgan, will be present at the finish line to congratulate participants and bestow medals upon their completion of this grueling ordeal. Cllr Morgan’s participation extends beyond mere ceremonial duties; he will also be a keynote speaker at the subsequent awards ceremony.
The vitality of the event is further enriched by Ironkids Wales, held on the preceding Saturday. Over 2,000 young enthusiasts, aged four to 15, will experience the thrill of racing down the red-carpet finish line, encapsulating the essence of the grand Ironman event. Adding a heartwarming touch, local school children
have penned good luck postcards for Ironman competitors, which will be tenderly handed over during the registration process.
Cllr Rhys Sinnett, a cabinet member for residents’ services at Pembrokeshire County Council, extends a hearty welcome to Ironman participants, families, and supporters. With its stunning coastline, charming beachfront towns, enchanting countryside trails, and rich heritage, Pembrokeshire aims to provide an unforgettable backdrop for the Ironman Wales event. The event’s popularity resonates deeply in the region, drawing ardent Ironman enthusiasts and showcasing some of the world’s most spirited supporters. As the countdown to the actionpacked weekend begins, Pembrokeshire awaits the exhilarating spectacle with open arms and unwavering enthusiasm.
DIVISION 1
Haverfordwest CC II v Narberth II
Hundleton v Herbrandston II
Johnston II v Lawrenny II
Manorbier United v Letterston II
Pembroke Boro II v Broad Haven II
St Clears II v Milford Athletic II
DIVISION 2
Broad Haven v Hakin United II
Camrose v Merlins Bridge II
Carew II v St Ishmaels
Cosheston v Johnston
Herbrandston v St Clears
Narberth v Monkton Swifts II
DIVISION 3
Clarbeston Road II v Goodwick United II
Kilgetty II v Lawrenny
Letterston v Haverfordwest CC
Pendine v St Florence
Pennar Robins II v Neyland II
Solva v Pembroke Boro
DIVISION 4
Angle v Milford United II
Milford Athletic v Newport Tigers
Monkton Swifts III v Fishguard Sports II
N Hedges & Saundersfoot v Carew III
St Ishmaels II v Camrose II
Tenby II v Prendergast Villa
DIVISION 5
Haverfordwest CC II v Hundleton
Herbrandston II v Cosheston II
Lawrenny II v Manorbier United
Letterston II v St Clears II
Milford Athletic II v Broad Haven II
Narberth II v Pembroke Boro II
Narberth II v Pembroke Boro II
For more county sport please visit herald.wales
WALES’ rugby icon Shane Williams maintains a cautious stance on Wales’ prospects in the upcoming World Cup, deferring his judgment until after the pivotal clash against Fiji.
Set to kick off their tournament journey on September 10th in Bordeaux against the Pacific Islanders, Warren Gatland’s squad enters the global spectacle buoyed by an unprecedented victory over England at Twickenham—a historic triumph that has reverberated through rugby circles.
Williams, in his column for the Rugby Paper, highlights the significance of the initial encounters for both Wales and England. He underscores the mounting pressure that failure to secure an opening win could bring, emphasising the critical nature of these early
matchups. He notably refrains from passing judgment on Wales’ World Cup aspirations until their showdown against Fiji has concluded.
The Welsh rugby legend notes Fiji’s compelling preparation for this World Cup as a standout factor. Their
impressive triumph over England on home soil stands as testament to their readiness. The Fiji team’s comprehensive training regimen and cohesiveness, maintained through a string of five games, have laid a robust foundation for their campaign. Notably, their
coach, Simon Raiwalui, garners praise from Williams for his profound understanding of both Fijian rugby psyche and the nuances of northern hemisphere rugby. Raiwalui’s strategic focus on bolstering discipline and fitness, addressing historical vulnerabilities, further solidifies Fiji’s challenge.
Williams acknowledges the transformation in Fiji’s approach this time, attributing their collective strength and unity as key differentiators. Notably, the integration of their Super Rugby team, the Drua, into the World Cup squad significantly augments their capabilities. As the Pacific nation possesses not only star-studded players but also a formidable collective force, their threat level has ascended to new heights compared to prior tournaments.
ALIx POPHAM, a former Welsh rugby player from Pembrokeshire, is confronting early onset dementia by joining a challenging Ironman event to raise awareness about sports-related risks and support his charity, “Head for Change.” Diagnosed at 40, Popham played in World Cups and secured a Grand Slam win before retiring in 2011.
In April 2020, he was diagnosed with probable CTE and early onset dementia linked to his rugby career.
He’s set to compete in the Tenby Ironman, offering him postdiagnosis purpose and
backing for his charity’s grassroots education on head trauma risks in rugby. Fellow athletes, including actor Mark
Lewis Jones and sports figures like Carl Hayman, are joining him in this demanding challenge encompassing a 2.4-mile
swim, 112-mile cycle with 2,000m elevation, and a 26.2-mile run with 400m of climbing.
Popham’s journey reflects his mother’s realization of unknowingly encouraging him to play rugby from a young age. The charity aims to channel funds into vital programs and research against early onset dementia and neurogenerative diseases tied to sports. After three years of training, Popham and 12 Head for Change representatives are set to take on the Ironman on September 3rd, symbolizing resilience and the call for awareness and research into sportsrelated brain health risks.
fly-half Dan Biggar has revealed his forthcoming retirement from international rugby following the culmination of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The 33-year-old, who recently embarked on a new chapter with French club Toulon in November 2022, will carry on his illustrious career on the club stage.
Biggar’s indelible mark on the Welsh team spans an impressive 109 Tests, a journey that commenced at the tender age of 19 against Canada in 2008. As he prepares for his third World Cup appearance, the fly-half leaves behind a legacy punctuated by grit and prowess on the field.
The decision was unveiled within the pages of Biggar’s own newspaper column, a platform that has borne witness to his strategic insights and thoughts throughout his career. Notably, his tenure saw triumphs including three Six Nations titles and a Grand Slam victory for Wales.
Having notably participated in two British and Irish Lions tours, Biggar’s contributions extended beyond his home nation. In 2021, he took the field three times
in a Test capacity during the series in South Africa, a testament to his mettle and versatility.
In a nod to his captaincy, Biggar was appointed by Wayne Pivac for the 2022 championship and the subsequent Test series in South Africa. The pinnacle of this leadership journey manifested when Wales secured a historic victory against the Springboks on their home soil.
As the 2023 Rugby World Cup looms, Wales stands on the precipice of another international challenge, commencing their campaign against Fiji in Bordeaux on September 10th. However, Biggar’s swan song will be accompanied by the absence of stalwarts like Alun Wyn Jones, Justin Tipuric, and Rhys Webb, who have also chosen to retire from international rugby ahead of the World CFurthermore, the forthcoming 2024 Six Nations will notably lack the presence of full-back Liam Williams and fly-half Gareth Anscombe. Their absence is attributed to the tournament’s overlap with the Japan domestic season, a circumstance that highlights the evolving demands and intricacies of the modern rugby landscape.
