The Pembrokeshire Herald 05/01/2024

Christmas cheer for family devastated by fire

LOCAL RESIDENTS

have rallied together to support a family whose home was ravaged by a fire just days before Christmas. The blaze, which erupted on December 23 at a residence on Cheriton Road, Pennar, engulfed the first floor and left the dwelling in ruins, destroying not only the family’s belongings but also the eagerly awaited Christmas presents for their five children, aged between two and 14.

Miraculously, the family was not at home when disaster struck. A vigilant postal worker detected the smell of smoke and promptly alerted the fire brigade, preventing potential tragedy.

Upon learning about the devastating incident, Michelle Roberts, a friend of Zoe, the mother of the affected

family, took swift action. Collaborating with another friend, Jodie Brown, they initiated a community-wide appeal for essential items to ensure that Christmas could still be celebrated by the displaced family. The response was overwhelming, with an outpouring of support from approximately 20 individuals who generously contributed not only everyday necessities but also Christmas presents for the children.

The impromptu team of volunteers, including Councillor Michele Wiggins, gathered at Pennar Hall to wrap the donated presents, transforming the hall into a real-life Santa’s workshop. Cllr Wiggins, along with other community members,

played a pivotal role in coordinating efforts, liaising with the local council to address the family’s immediate needs and organize the restoration of their damaged home.

The unity displayed by the community was truly remarkable, extending beyond material donations to practical assistance such as neighbors offering to launder clothes, friends salvaging salvageable items, and even someone venturing to Haverfordwest to secure Christmas wrapping paper when it was found to be unavailable in Pembroke Dock.

Reflecting on the community’s generosity, Mrs. Roberts expressed, “The Christmas spirit came out two days before Christmas. It was the true meaning of Christmas.” The community’s efforts culminated in a

heartwarming moment on Christmas Eve when all the wrapped presents were delivered to the temporary accommodation where the family was staying, bringing real-life Christmas magic to the children.

Zoe, the mother of the affected family, conveyed her gratitude, saying, “I want to say how grateful I am to every single person that was involved and stress how happy my children were on Christmas morning because of them.” She added, “She [Zoe] is very overwhelmed. She’s the one who always helps others and is not used to taking help herself.”

The community’s compassion also translated into financial support, with a JustGiving page amassing an impressive £4,000 to aid the family in their time of need. The generosity exhibited by Pembrokeshire residents serves as a testament to the strength of community bonds and the unwavering spirit of compassion that defines the holiday season.

As the flames of adversity threatened to overshadow the festive season for one Pembrokeshire family, the community, acting as a beacon of hope, kindled the true Christmas spirit, proving that even in the face of tragedy, the power of solidarity can light up the darkest moments.

https://www. gofundme.com/f/ raising-money-forneyland-family

New Year’s Eve assaults

A CONSTRUCTION worker has been served a custodial sentence after spitting directly into the faces of two Pembrokeshire police officers whilst they were on duty on New Year’s Eve.

The officers were called to a property in Haverfordwest where they were met at the door by Kieran Vaughan.

Body-worn video footage shown to a district judge sitting at Haverfordwest magistrates court on Tuesday showed Vaughan spitting repeatedly into the officers’ faces and subjecting them to a stream of obscene language which included racial elements towards one of the officers who was Scottish.

Vaughan, who was recently employed in the construction of the Whitland bypass, was heard calling the officers “f****** w****** and f****** c****!”

As the video footage was played to District Judge Mark

Layton, Vaughan sat in the dock with his head bowed.

“This is a particularly serious offence,” commented Judge Layton after viewing the footage..

“There was a racial element involved and you spat in the faces of the two officers. As a result of the seriousness, only a custodial sentence can be served.”

Vaughan, who resides in Newtown, pleaded guilty to two charges of assaulting both police officers by beating. He was legally represented by solicitor Mr Michael Kelleher.

“My client was extremely drunk that night and had consumed an awful lot of alcohol,” he said. “He has no recollection of what occurred.”

Vaughan was sentenced to 20 weeks in custody and was ordered to pay £150 compensation to both police officers. He must also pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Accused of stealing own car

A FISHGUARD man has appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged with stealing his own vehicle from a vehicle repair garage in Goodwick

Ian Roberts, 63, is accused of stealing his silver Volkswagen Passat after leaving it at the Goodwick Motor Services to be repaired on December 1, 2022.

However Roberts’ solicitor, Mr Michael Kelleher, this week informed District Judge Mark Layton that his client had previously arranged to collect his car at 5pm that same day.

“There was an arrangement for him to take it at 5pm, and this was known by the garage and had been agreed to,” said Mr Kelleher.

“My client accepts that his vehicle was in the garage, but the arrangement had been made to collect it.” Roberts, of Heol Dyfed, Fishguard, denies stealing the motor vehicle.

He elected a Crown Court trial, and proceedings will commence at Swansea Crown Court on February 2. Roberts was released on unconditional bail.

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New Year’s Eve double rescue

NEW YEAR’S EVE turned into a night of high-stakes drama for the Angle RNLI crew as they were called out twice within a few hours, battling treacherous conditions off the Pembrokeshire coast.

The first call came at 5:28 pm on Sunday, December 31, as the all-weather lifeboat was launched following numerous 999 calls reporting red distress flares in the Lawrenny and Llangwm area. Undeterred by wind gusts reaching 49 knots, the crew embarked on a comprehensive search using FLIR, night vision equipment, searchlights, and radar.

Despite their exhaustive efforts, initially, nothing was

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found. However, the crew turned their attention to a seemingly abandoned yacht anchored with lights on, accompanied by a dinghy and oars. Unable to raise anyone onboard, the Coastguard was alerted, prompting the RNLI to formulate a plan to board the yacht for investigation.

Deploying the Y boat for safer boarding in challenging wind and tide conditions, a crew member discovered the locked cabin devoid of occupants or signs of distress. A VHF call from Llangwm Yacht Club reported two individuals safely reaching shore in a dinghy, deeming the incidents unrelated. Nonetheless, the

Coastguard urged the lifeboat crew to persist with their search.

After an exhaustive sweep from Jenkins Point to Picton Point and back, finding nothing, the crew was stood down by the Coastguard. Dale and Tenby Coastguard Rescue teams were then tasked to continue the search on both sides of the area.

Returning to the station by 8:10 pm, the crew’s brief respite was cut short. Just seven minutes later, they were called back to action, launching the all-weather lifeboat to search for a missing female in the Wards Pier/Milford Haven area.

Utilizing FLIR, night vision equipment, and searchlights, the crew spotted a torch

and heat source on Scotch Bay beach. Challenging water conditions prevented a closer approach, leading Dale and Broad Haven Coastguard Rescue Teams to investigate the beach, finding nothing amiss.

The Angle crew persisted, extending their search towards Milford Docks before turning back towards Wards Pier. As they made their way back, Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the missing female was found safe in a different location, leading to another standdown. The lifeboat was readied for service again by 10 pm, capping off a New Year’s Eve marked by relentless dedication and extraordinary efforts by the Angle RNLI crews.

Jailed for assault and criminal damage

GRAHAM POTTER, 41, of Picton Road in Neyland, labelled a “nasty bully” by Judge Paul Thomas, has been sentenced to 18 weeks in prison for assault and an additional six weeks for criminal damage following an incident on November 23.

Potter appeared at Swansea Crown Court, facing charges related to an altercation with a woman in Neyland. While he denied the strangulation charge, he admitted assault by beating and causing criminal damage, with these pleas being accepted by the prosecution.

The court heard that the incident unfolded as

Potter became verbally abusive towards the victim before turning violent. Although he put his hand under the woman’s chin, causing her lip to bleed, the strangulation charge was not upheld as it did not impact her breathing, and she was able to free herself.

Prosecutor James Hartson detailed the confrontation, explaining that after the initial assault, Potter and the victim engaged in a scuffle, resulting in scratches. The violence escalated as Potter smashed the victim’s television and a chair when she left the living room.

When the police were called, Potter

admitted to the incident but claimed the victim was the one who “kicked off.” The victim, in a statement read to the court, expressed her disbelief in Potter’s ability to change his ways, describing the two sides to his personality.

Potter had two previous convictions for battery and one for criminal damage against the same victim, along with two jail sentences for breaching domestic violence protection orders.

In his defence, David Singh acknowledged the incident was fuelled by alcohol and that both parties had consumed alcohol. However, Judge Thomas interjected, criticising Potter for

complaining about injuries he sustained during the incident, stating, “A woman fought back – how dare she.”

Judge Thomas, addressing Potter directly, remarked, “You, Mr. Potter, are a nasty bully. You assault women when you get drunk.” He cautioned Potter to control his drinking and temper, warning that continued offences would result in longer prison sentences. Consequently, Potter was sentenced to 18 weeks for assault, an additional six weeks for criminal damage, and was issued a twoyear restraining order.

A not guilty verdict was entered on the strangulation charge.

Man denies assaulting woman

A 26-YEAR-OLD Haverfordwest man has appeared before magistrates charged with assaulting a woman by beating on the Brunel Quay in Neyland.

Danny Jenkins is further charged with causing criminal damage to the rear view mirror and windscreen of his victim’s car during the same alleged incident.

The Crown claims that both offences occurred on July 17, 2023.

Jenkins, of Milton Close, Haverfordwest, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday when he entered not guilty pleas to both charges. He was legally represented by Mr Michael Kelleher. District Judge Mark Layton adjourned the matter to February 12 when the trial is expected to take place at Haverfordwest magistrates court. Jenkins was released on unconditional bail.

Warrant for drug-drive accused

A WARRANT has been issued for the arrest of a woman accused of driving through the village of Rosemarket when she was in possession of crack cocaine and a four-gram cannabis joint.

The Crown Prosecution Service alleges that Kellie Macleod, 40, was stopped by officers as she drove her Seat Leon through Front Street, Rosemarket, on August 3.

As officers carried out a search of her vehicle, the Crown alleges that 0.57g of crack cocaine was found in her possession together with a cannabis joint containing four grams of the Class B drug.

The Crown alleges that subsequent blood tests carried out following the defendant’s arrest confirmed she had 240 ug/L of benzoylecgonine in her system and 6.8 ug/L of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol. The specified legal limit is 50 and 2 respectively.

Macleod, of Stapleton, Bristol, was summoned to attend Haverfordwest magistrates court on Tuesday morning to submit pleas on all four charges but, following her failure to attend, district judge Mark Layton issued a warrant for her arrest.

Actor banned from driving

A FISHGUARD actor has appeared before magistrates after being caught driving his Volkswagen Passat through Haverfordwest when he was five times over the drug-drive limit.

Earl Goodridge was stopped by police officers just before 6pm on September 4 after they noticed smoke emanating from beneath his vehicle each time he accelerated.

A positive drugs swipe was carried out and Goodridge, of Cefn Coed, Dwrbach, Fishguard was conveyed to the police custody suite for further blood tests. These showed that he had 10 ug/L of Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system. The specified legal limit is 2.

Goodridge, who pleaded guilty to the drug-drive charge when he appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week, was legally represented by Mr David Williams.

“This is going to have a profound impact on my client as he is an aspiring actor,” he said. “The ability to drive is essential for him, so he’s going to feel the disqualification very substantially.”

Imposing the sentence, District Judge Mark Layton said, “Being five times over the legal limit has aggravated the situation.”

Goodridge was disqualified from driving for a total of 16 months.

He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 surcharge.

‘Undermined’ police investigation

WHEN the Royal Mail intercepted a parcel in Northern Ireland addressed to a 20-yearold Aberystwyth man, they discovered it contained 13.7 grams of diamorphine with an estimated street value of £750.

But when police officers traced the man to his address in Aberystwyth in October 2023 to carry out further investigations, Jack Melford-Colegage refused to co-operate.

“He was spoken to by the officers and various items were seized, however the defendant refused to give the officers the pincode for his phone to allow further investigations to be made,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

Jack MelfordColegage pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a section 49 notice

to disclose the key to protected information and an additional charge of being in possession of three-and-a-half tablets of the controlled Class C drug, Bromazolam.

However despite his guilty pleas, District Judge Mark Layton stated that the Magistrates Court’s sentencing powers were insufficient to deal with Melford-Colegage.

“Your refusal [to supply the pincode] has undermined the investigation into the supply of Class A drugs,” said Judge Layton.

“This frustrated the investigation into a serious offence. As a result, the sentencing powers here are insufficient.”

Jack MelfordColegage of The Albion, St James’ Square, Aberystwyth, was committed to Swansea Crown Court where he will be sentenced on January 23.

Petition to overturn farm barn refusal

A PETITION calling on Pembrokeshire planners to overturn a refusal of permission for a farm barn attraction, built after the owner lost his cattle herd to Bovine TB, has attracted more than 2,500 signatures.

Stuart Williams of Home Farm, Leweston, near Camrose, was recently refused retrospective permission to retain the Willhome Farm Barn farm park –and ancillary buildings –built in June 2022.

The site – whose facilities were used by council educational providers – is home to rabbits, llamas, donkeys, poultry, owls, goats, ponies and pigs, along with a café building, public conveniences, a children’s play area, and parking.

A supporting statement by agent Aled Thomas Planning Design Ltd said the diversification had taken

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

place in 2022 after the Williams family had to lose their entire milking/ dairy and beef herd due to a severe outbreak of Bovine TB on their farm, with regular visits from educational groups in the school term, and had “a massive impact on the lives of every pupil who attends”.

The application was refused under delegated powers due to highway safety concerns and fears it would generate additional foul water flows which are likely to result in an increase in phosphate levels in the Cleddau River.

The change. org petition, Grant Planning Permission for Willhome Farm Barn in Pembrokeshire, was set up by Hook-based Jessica Austin, and has attracted more than 2,500 signatures to date.

It reads: “This petition

begins with a deeply personal story. During the lockdown, a family in Pembrokeshire lost their herd to TB.

“In response to this devastating loss, they diversified as advised by the Welsh government and created a beautiful farm barn for all children and adults to enjoy within our county.

“They’ve done so much more than that though; they’ve installed a defibrillator, donated generously to charity, and helped countless families in numerous ways.

“Despite these contributions, the county council continues to deny planning permission for Willhome Farm Barn with what seem like trivial excuses.

“This decision not only affects this resilient family but also impacts schools attended with over 6,000 pupils, by adults from local wellbeing centres and

families with children who have autism or learning difficulties like mine.

“It’s important to note that there are no apparent issues with existing amenities. Roads or waterways. The refusal of planning permission seems unjustified and is causing unnecessary distress within our community.

“We need your support now more than ever! By signing this petition, you’re standing up against bureaucratic red tape and advocating for an establishment that has proven its worth time after time through its service to our community.

“Let’s ensure Willhome Farm Barn receives the planning permission it deserves so it can continue enriching lives in Pembrokeshire.”

Pembrokeshire County Council has been contacted for a response.

ITV drama on Post Office drama shocks

VIEWERS in Pembrokeshire were left in disbelief during the latest episode of the gripping ITV drama, “Mr Bates vs The Post Office,” which shed light on the alleged tampering of the secure £1 billion IT system by Fujitsu staff.

The series, based on the real-life saga of postmaster Alan Bates, portrayed how innocent subpostmasters, accused due to the faulty Horizon system, faced charges of theft, fraud, and false accounting.

One of those postmasters was a former sub-postmaster from the north of the county who was caught up in the scandal. In 2021 he had had his conviction for false accounting overturned.

Tim Brentnall, from Roch, was prosecuted in 2010 after a £22,000 shortfall was discovered at his branch. He is one of 736 former Post Office managers prosecuted due to the flawed Horizon

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computer system.

Mr Brentnall told The Pembrokeshire Herald at the time that it had taken 16 years of stress to clear his name.

The second episode of the series, which is available on ITV Player, depicted a scene that left viewers ‘sickened.’

It revealed how Fujitsu, hired by the Post Office, remotely altered subpostmasters’ financial figures without their knowledge. The shocking revelation contradicted the Post Office’s prosecution strategy, which asserted that no one could access the tills without the subpostmasters’ awareness.

Actor Toby Jones, portraying Alan Bates, led the campaign to expose what is now considered the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British history. The series highlighted the

injustice faced by innocent subpostmasters, including Michael Rudkin (played by Shaun Dooley), who had been wrongly convicted due to the faulty Horizon system.

Former Fujitsu engineer Richard Roll, a whistleblower who exposed remote access to accounts in 2015, was part of a team of 30 engineers with access to terminals remotely. The mounting pressure from Bates’ Justice For Subpostmasters Alliance (JFSA) group, backed by several MPs, prompted the Post Office to launch an independent investigation.

As investigator Bob Rutherford delves into the scandal, the episode unfolds with shocking revelations. Subpostmistress Saman Kaur pleads guilty to charges, revealing problems arising after receiving a new Horizon PIN pad. Other victims, Jo Hamilton and Noel Thomas, admit guilt,

More than twice over limit

A PEMBROKESHIRE

man caught driving his Land Rover Defender when he was over twice the legal drink-drive limit claimed he had consumed just one pint of Stella earlier that morning.

Guy Owen, 58, of The Stables, Enfield Road, Broad Haven, was stopped by officers at around midday on December 15 as he was driving his Defender along the Dale Road near Haverfordwest.

prompting calls for a change in pleas.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn in Hampshire, where MP James Arbuthnot discusses justice plans with Jo Hamilton, uncovering two additional cases in his constituency. The episode exposes a second JFSA meeting, where Michael Rudkin reveals his visit to Fujitsu HQ, exposing the potential for remote access to branch accounts.

However, the drama intensifies when Angela, Head of Network Systems at the Post Office, denies the allegations, claiming Mr. Rudkin had only been taken to a ‘Test Environment.’ The investigator’s pursuit of the truth becomes challenging as he faces skepticism and resistance.

The episode concludes with viewers expressing their disgust at the revelations, questioning the collaboration between Fujitsu and the Post Office. Social media platforms were flooded with comments condemning the actions depicted in the drama, with many calling for justice to be served.

The series has received widespread praise since its New Year’s Day premiere, providing a poignant portrayal of the Post Office scandal. As the investigation continues, the nation awaits further revelations that could reshape perceptions of this unprecedented miscarriage of justice.

was conveyed to the police station where he was asked to provide further breath tests . These gave a lowest reading of 89 mcg of alcohol; the prescribed legal limit is 35.

Owen pleaded guilty to a charge of drinkdriving. He was legally represented in court by Mr David Williams.

“My client has taken significant steps after recognising that he has issues with alcohol,” he said. “He now wants to address those issues.

“The officers were carrying out a routine stop check on his grey Land Rover Defender, but there was a clear smell of alcohol emanating from inside the vehicle,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told a District Judge sitting at Haverfordwest magistrates earlier this week.

“The defendant was asked if he’d drunk anything and he said he’d had one pint of Stella.”

A roadside breath test carried out by officers proved positive and Owen

“ As a result of this offence, his work has come to an end and his family has become separated.”

District Judge Mark Layton questioned Guy Owen about the car he was driving at the time of the offence. Owen stated that the Defender was under the ownership of Land Rover and will subsequently be returned to the company following his drink-drive conviction.

Owen was disqualified from driving for a total of 22 months. He was fined £400 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £160 surcharge.

Jailed for breach of restraining order

A 29-YEAR-OLD man, Daniel Phillips, displaying a flagrant disregard for court orders, has been sentenced to 12 weeks in prison after violating a restraining order. Phillips, whose current residence is listed as ‘no fixed abode,’ appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court facing charges of harassment.

This legal action stems from an incident on December 21 in Milford Haven where he breached a restraining order imposed by Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on January 9 the previous year. The order, which Phillips had been subject to, was designed to

prevent any contact or harassment towards a specific individual.

Despite his previous connection to Haverfordwest, Phillips, now with no fixed abode, admitted guilt to breaching the restraining order during a hearing at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on December 22. In light of his actions, the court imposed a 12-week jail term, underscoring the severity of the breach. This case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences for those who show blatant disregard for court orders, reinforcing the commitment to upholding the safety and well-being of individuals protected by such restraining orders.

Crymych petrol station redevelopment recommended for refusal

PLANS to demolish Crymych’s petrol station, replacing it with a new larger station and store are expected to be turned down next week.

At the January 9 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee members will consider an application by Mr James, of Siop Y Frenni, Crymych, to redevelop the existing petrol filling station and shop.

The number of fuel pumps will remain the same, with four electric vehicle charging points included, and it is anticipated that the convenience unit – if approved - would be occupied by NISA, owned by the Cooperative Group Limited.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

“The store has operated on this site since before the applicant purchased it, in November 2008, and has benefited from no meaningful investment since that time. The existing store only contains c.234.5m2 of internal floorspace. This floorspace needs to accommodate the commercial trading area, staff facilities (including a staff room, an office and toilets), stock room and counter space.

“The existing floor area does not meet the operational needs of the retailer. It is insufficient to support the required range of goods customers, isles are cluttered and, generally, the shopping experience is currently

Agent Thomas Login Architecture, in a supporting statement, says: “The redevelopment of the site is proposed as the existing building and layout no longer meet the modern needs of the store, or its customers.

poor. Furthermore, the existing building is of very poor construction which significantly affects the viability of progressing any meaningful extension to the existing building.

“The cost of making the existing building structurally sound to accommodate a large extension and the necessary improvement works would in all likelihood be prohibitive to development.”

A Retail Assessment is submitted along with the application, adding: “There are no further petrol fuelling stations within the Crymych and the only other convenience store in the settlement is the Spar, which is located directly adjacent.

“Therefore, there will be no impact on the existing centre as the proposed scheme is not competing with any in centre store.”

The application is recommended for

One hospitalised following two-vehicle RTC

A COLLISION near Whitland on Wednesday morning (Jan 3) resulted in one individual being transported to the hospital.

refusal by planners for reasons including “the proposed development is inadequately justified and in the absence of evidence to the contrary will prove harmful to the vitality and viability of Crymych and nearby settlements,” and impact on neighbouring dwellings.

A report for

planners says a council-commissioned Regional Retail Study, in conjunction with the national park and neighbouring Ceredigion County Council, says there is no capacity to support new convenience floorspace across Pembrokeshire.

It adds:

“Furthermore, the Retail Statement has not adequately assessed the impact of the proposed development on existing convenience retail provision in Crymych, nor the potential impact on convenience shopping in nearby settlements, a number of which support local shops (Blaenffos, Boncath, Eglwyswrw

A spokesperson for the force confirmed that, following the incident, one person was taken to the hospital ‘as a precautionary measure.’

The collision involved a grey Peugeot and a white Hyundai.

The affected stretch

At approximately 9am, a two-car crash forced the closure of the B4328 Spring Gardens in both directions for several hours. DyfedPowys Police promptly responded to the incident, necessitating the closure of the road section between the Fishers Arms and the A40 Llanboidy Roundabout.

of road was reopened around lunchtime, allowing traffic to resume its normal flow.

In a statement, a Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson reported: “Police attended a twovehicle road traffic collision. The vehicles involved were a grey Peugeot and a white Hyundai. One person went to the hospital as a precaution.”

Extraction call for quarry which may have once roofed House of Commons

A SCHEME to extract waste from a disused Pembrokeshire quarry which may have once provided slates for the Houses of Parliament is expected to get the go-ahead.

Alan James Ai Feibion CYF seeks permission to remove slate waste from Gilfach Quarry, Llangolman on the Pembrokeshire/ Carmarthenshire border; the waste being used as a secondary aggregate in a variety of projects – such as agricultural farm tracks, as sub-bases for agricultural buildings and other engineering works.

The application is recommended for conditional approval at the January 9 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee.

It is not known when quarrying at historic slate quarry Gilfach, close to the Carmarthenshire border, started, but it was noted as ‘disused’ as far back as a 1956 application, and was

later registered as a ‘dormant’ site in the first list of minerals sites in 1996.

The greenish-grey/ blue slate quarried in the area is said to be of Ordovician volcanic ash origin, with online sources such as Wikipedia claiming slate from Gilfach was used on the roof of the Houses of Parliament when rebuilt in the 1830s.

The proposed extraction site, an old slate tip, itself forms a small part of the overall site; it is anticipated that the site would yield some 79,030 m³ of materials, which would equate to approximately 110,642 tonnes, with a maximum tonnage of 10,000 expected to be extracted a year.

A report for planners says: “The applicant has indicated that there is a local demand for this sort of material in the area.

“The applicant owns a civil engineering business and carries out various works on agricultural holdings where this material could be utilised in the use of tracks and/or subbase for buildings.

“The applicant also intends to supply stone to local stone masons,

in additional to local farmers who have contacted the applicant since they have bought the site.”

In a planning complication, the access for the site is within the Pembrokeshire, but the public highways are under Carmarthenshire jurisdiction.

Neither authority has

raised objections on highways grounds but requests for surfacing access warning signage were made.

The report for planners concludes: “In conclusion, the proposed development would be in accord with the aims and objectives of local and national planning policy and would contribute towards sustainable minerals planning in the county and would not result in any significant impacts, justifying the refusal of the application.”

The application is recommended for approval subject to a long string on conditions.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Warning after 999 calls surge

THE WELSH Ambulance Service has issued a plea to the public, urging restraint in dialling 999 unless faced with a genuine emergency.

Lee Brooks, the Executive Director of Operations for the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust, has implored citizens to reserve 999 for situations involving severe illness, injuries, or imminent threats to life.

From Boxing Day to January 2, an astonishing 13,000 calls inundated the ambulance service on 999, accompanied by an additional 36,000 calls to the NHS 111 Wales service. Concurrently, the NHS 111 Wales website experienced over 116,000 visits, with more than 7,500 symptom checkers completed during the same period.

Acknowledging the heightened demand exacerbated by seasonal illnesses, Mr. Brooks emphasised the strain placed on health services across Wales. He underscored the critical need for cooperation during periods of heightened hospital occupancy, where ambulances may face delays in admitting patients, leaving those in the community with non-life-threatening conditions waiting for assistance.

pharmacists who can dispense prescribed medications and provide clinical advice for common ailments over the counter.

4. Self-Transport to Hospital: If safe and appropriate, consider making your own way to the hospital for urgent needs, minimising potential wait times.

5. Minor Injuries Unit: Visit the nearest Minor Injuries Unit for assistance with limb injuries, burns, bites, and stings.

6. Weather Considerations: With ongoing weather warnings in Wales, avoid unnecessary risks, such as nonessential driving.

7. Self-Care at Home : Practise self-care by collecting repeat prescriptions and ensuring a wellstocked first aid box.

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Mr. Brooks appealed, stating, “We’re working tirelessly as a collective system to provide optimal care to patients. However, we earnestly request the public, both today and in the coming days, to use 999 exclusively for severe medical emergencies.”

He clarified that only situations

involving cessation of breathing, chest pain, breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness, choking, severe allergic reactions, catastrophic bleeding, or stroke symptoms should prompt a 999 call. For all other health concerns,

he highlighted several alternatives:

1. NHS 111 Wales Website: Seek health advice and information through the NHS 111 Wales for a wide range of ailments.

2. NHS 111 Wales Phone Line: Call NHS 111 for more urgent matters, ensuring prompt guidance.

Mr. Brooks expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and extended appreciation to the dedicated staff and volunteers, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to caring for the people of Wales under challenging circumstances. He concluded, “We all rely on our NHS, and we are committed to making things better for our patients and our people.” As the service explores innovative approaches to future healthcare delivery, public cooperation

Tom Sinclair

Lee Brooks, executive director of operations for the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust

Turbine refusal on cards over airport safety

PLANS for a 200-foot-high wind turbine to power a north Pembrokeshire mansion and arts charity home are expected to be refused due to fears it would threaten the safe operation of the nearby West Wales Airport

Mr and Mrs G Peters of Western Solar Ltd are seeking permission for a single turbine on land near the Grade II-listed Rhosygilwen Mansion, which includes an arts and functions building known as Neuaddydderwen.

The application for the 62-metre-high turbine and associated works, is to be considered at the January meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

The application, supported by Cilgerran Community Council, is recommended for refusal for several reasons, including harm to the setting of the Grade-II-listed house and grounds, and threats to the safe operation of West Wales Airport at Aberporth in neighbouring Ceredigion, some 9.5 kilometres away.

Agent and specialist renewable energy developer Infinite Renewables Limited, in its supporting statement, says the proposed turbine would supply the large majority of power required to run the mansion’s heat pump during the winter,

replacing the existing solar system.

“The survival of the business, the Pembrokeshire Retreat and Menter Rhosygilwen (the arts charity) which are conducted at Neuaddydderwen and the mansion, is dependent on lower energy costs. Winter imports of energy forced closure in 2022/23 due to high energy bills,” it adds.

A report for planners says the airport manager at West Wales Airport has objected to the proposed development due to possible interference with radar systems.

“He states that under the Air Navigation Order 2016, West Wales Airport has a statutory duty to safeguard its radio navigation aids

and must be able to demonstrate to the Civil Aviation Authority that any decisions to relax any safeguarding obligations are based on sound technical evidence,” the report says.

However, an aviation consultant advising Infinite Renewables Limited has indicated that, technically, West Wales Airport is a non-radar airport as it does not provide radar services for aircraft arriving and departing the airfield, adding operations are only under Visual Flight Rules and the aerodrome provides Aerodrome Flight Information only.

The consultant concludes the turbine would not have any effect on the physical

safeguarding of the aerodrome and that there would be no effect on the delivery of services, which is disputed by the airport manager.

The application will be heard at the January 9 meeting at County Hall, Haverfordwest.

Flooding affecting the 349 bus between Lamphey and Penally

THE 349 bus service between Haverfordwest and Tenby is not able to serve the whole route due to flooding along the A4139.

The service is currently unable to serve Lamphey, Hodgeston, Jameston, Manorbier, Lydstep, Penally and Marsh Road.

Buses are currently travelling from Pembroke to Tenby via Fingerpost, Milton and Kilgetty.

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This diversion will be in place for the whole of today, Wednesday 3rd January and it will be reviewed on Thursday morning.

For those living in these areas, the Fflecsi South Pembrokeshire service is running and can use the smaller roads which cannot be served by the 349 buses.

Police issue appeal for information following collision near rugby club

POLICE have confirmed that they are investigating a report of a collision between a car and a pedestrian on the A4139 Lamphey Road.

A man reported being hit by a car near Pembroke Rugby Club at around 10.40pm on December 30.

He sustained broken ribs and bruising as a result.

The make and model of the car is unclear, however a black passenger side wing mirror left at the scene

indicates it might have been a newer Peugeot 208 or Vauxhall Corsa.

Polic have asked that anyone with information that could help officers with their investigation is asked to report it to Dyfed-Powys Police, either online at: https:// bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing 101@dyfedpowys.police.uk, or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.

Quote reference: DP20231230-374

Royal College of Nursing sounds warning

THE RCN has issued a warning after, what they say, was the biggest review of nursing without any mandate, public consultation, or scrutiny was undertaken by the Senedd.

Helen Whyley, RCN Wales Director, said: “This is a radical change in patient care in Wales and I am disappointed there has been no public consultation or parliamentary scrutiny on this decision.

Patient safety must be the top priority for the Welsh Government.

There is a real danger that under financial pressure, health boards will see the employment of nursing associates (NA) as a potential alternative to the employment of registered nurses creating a risk for patients.

The evidence is undeniable: the

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professional knowledge, skills and judgement of the registered nurse makes a critical difference to patient safety. Low nurse staffing levels are associated with up to 26% higher patient mortality, longer hospital stays, higher infection rates and a greater incidence of falls and pressure ulcers.

I welcome the acknowledgement of the protection the Nurse Staffing Levels (Wales) Act 2016 provides to patient care and how it can be used to mitigate any substitution of registered nurses by registered NAs. It is imperative that the Welsh Government strengthens this protection by extending the Act to where NAs will be employed.

The introduction of regulated NAs has the potential to increase

recognition and reward for band 4 support workers along with opportunities to develop their career, but the RCN is very concerned, given the current harsh pressures of reduced public funding in the NHS, that achieving the potential for benefits

in this change will be difficult to accomplish.

The Welsh Government has not identified additional funding for the employment and education of this new role of NA; indeed, they claim there is no cash in the system. Given this is

a change to government policy and was not in the 2021 Welsh Labour manifesto, the RCN will be scrutinising this new policy to ensure that funds for registered nursing education in Wales are not stripped out, nor that of the existing registered

nursing workforce budget.

The RCN will do everything to work with the Welsh Government to minimise this risk to patient safety and enhance nursing care to provide the best possible outcomes to patients.”

Local charity group’s debut pantomime performance set to wow

A NEWLY formed local charity group, Cause for Drama, is gearing up to dazzle audiences at Letterston Memorial Hall with their debut performance of Cinderella. The troupe, brought together by a shared mission to support a close friend battling Breast Cancer, will stage the pantomime on January 5th at 7 pm, with two additional shows on January 6th at 2 pm and 7 pm.

Established in September, Cause for Drama was born out of a desire to make a positive impact in the face of adversity. The group’s initial goal is to raise funds for the chemo care unit at Withybush Hospital while simultaneously raising awareness about Breast Cancer. Their dedication to the cause is reflected in the tireless efforts put into crafting a highquality production within a short span.

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Members of Cause for Drama, who have previously collaborated in various performances with the Decibelles choir, as well as musical productions for FMTS and FADDS, such as Addams Family and Cats, bring a wealth of experience to the stage. The ensemble is also buoyed by the support of Roccana, a popular local band set to enhance the evening’s entertainment with their musical prowess.

Tristan Mansell, one of the passionate members of the group, shared, “The group has worked tirelessly to ensure that this pantomime is not only entertaining but also of the highest standard. The script is exceptionally funny, promising laughter, singing, and, of course, boos for the villains. It’s a show designed to engage families and leave them

with lasting memories.”

Ruth Evans, who takes on the role of Baroness in Cinderella, expressed her excitement, stating, “We can’t believe the show is just a week away! Time seems to fly, especially during the festive season. What better way to conclude the holiday festivities than with a local pantomime, all in aid of a worthy cause.”

The much-anticipated shows are scheduled for January 5th at 7 pm, followed by two performances on Saturday, January 6th, at 2 pm and 7 pm. Tickets are available for purchase, with all proceeds directly contributing to the cause of supporting those undergoing cancer treatment at Withybush Hospital.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join Cause for Drama in spreading joy, laughter, and support for Breast Cancer awareness.

Ex-WRU director on Wales Coast Path challenge

CRAIG MAXWELL, a cancer fundraiser from Penarth, is calling on the people of Wales to join him in walking the Wales Coast Path in a bid to raise £1 million for cancer research and treatment.

With the aim of raising £1 million for the Maxwell Family Genomics Fund, a fund as part of Velindre Cancer Centre, Pembrokeshire-born Maxwell has launched his latest challenge to kick off 2024.

He is hoping to attract 30 people each day of the 26-day Wales Coast Path challenge. 26 days has been chosen to mirror the QuicDNA project’s goal of reducing diagnosis time.

780 miles of the Welsh coastal path will be walked, representing the 78 days it took him to receive his diagnosis from the point of finding his tumour, and the rest will be cycled.

A rugby match ball will be relayed the entire distance of the challenge, symbolising Wales’ collective fight against cancer and it will culminate at the national stadium of Wales, the Principality Stadium, on 10th March for the Wales vs. France Guinness Six Nations match, where Maxwell accompanied by his children, Isla and Zach, will carry the match ball onto the pitch.

Acknowledging the unpredictable nature of his ongoing treatments, Maxwell will be joined by a different Welsh celebrity every day of the walk, so that regardless of his ability to walk, he

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will have a representative to take on the challenge.

Celebrities signed up to take part so far include TV presenter Gethin Jones and a number of former rugby players including Sam Warburton, Jamie Roberts, Josh Navidi and Velindre ambassador

Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies.

Each day of walking offers 30 spaces, inviting participants to raise £500 for the fund and take on the challenge of 26 miles a day through breathtaking Welsh countryside.

Maxwell says: “We are embarking on a monumental challenge to symbolise hope, resilience, and unity, and raise over £1 million for the research and development of new and innovate cancer testing and treatments in Wales.

Having surpassed our initial fundraising goals of £300,000 for QuicDNA, we really hope people will join us in taking on the Wales Coast Path Challenge. It will be our most ambitious journey yet as we strive to create a community united against cancer across the length and breadth of Wales.

“Cancer has touched our lives, challenged our resilience, but it will not define our future. This event will see people from all over Wales stand united, not just as individuals but as a formidable force against cancer.”

The former chief

commercial officer of Six Nations Rugby and commercial director of the Welsh Rugby Union was just 40 when he was diagnosed with incurable and inoperable EGFR lung and bone cancer in September 2022.

In the face of adversity, having told he had 10-18 months to live, Pembrokeshireborn Maxwell has thrown himself into raising hundreds of thousands of pounds to help others detect cancer earlier.

Over the last year, he has run the London Marathon, taken part in CARTEN, cycled 320 miles from Cardiff to Paris, cycled over 420 miles from Paris to Bordeaux and taken on the Welsh 3000s – climbing over 10 mountains, all over 3,000ft in 24 hours. Earlier this year, he was crowned Cycling Plus’ Rider of the Year for his efforts.

A patient representative of the QuicDNA steering group, Maxwell has also supported the oncology team at Velindre and All Wales Genomics to introduce a new test for lung cancer patients. The QuicDNA pilot project, now in place, will look to dramatically reduce the time lung cancer is diagnosed in Wales.

His story has touched the hearts of many, rallying support that surpassed all expectations. His efforts to date have seen him raise £430,000 to support the QuicDNA project, which aims to shorten the time it takes to diagnose

lung cancer in patients in Wales.

With a further £500,000 donated by The Moondance Foundation, set up by Henry and Diane Engelhardt, Maxwell is now launching his own charity fund.

The Maxwell Family Genomics Fund aims to support and advance cancer research, particularly in the field of genomics, to enhance

diagnosis and treatment in Wales.

Administered and supported by Velindre, with support from the Moondance Foundation and All Wales Genomics, the fund will aim to make a lasting difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families in Wales.

He says: “I’m proud to launch the Maxwell Family Genomics Fund,

where hope, courage, and community converge in the fight against cancer in Wales. This is the start of my family and friends creating a legacy and showing my children that even at the worst time possible, you can still rise up and be positive and make a difference.”

To find out more about the Wales Coast Path Challenge and to sign up, visit maxwell.foundation

Saundersfoot makes a splash with record-breaking New Year’s swim

SAUNDERSFOOT

BEACH echoed with cheers and excitement this morning as 2,523 intrepid swimmers took the plunge into the icy waters, marking the 38th annual Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim. This event, touted as the largest festive dip in the UK, drew an estimated 10,000 spectators who gathered to witness the spectacle and celebrate the arrival of 2024.

The beach was alive with energy as the crowd enjoyed a lively warm-up session, courtesy of the talented dancers from Cast & Crew Performing Art School and Mor Creative. The atmosphere was electric, with the gathered throngs joining

in a spirited rendition of Status Quo’s classic, “Rockin All Over the World.”

Martyn Williams, Star Of The Swim and a founding member of Saundersfoot Festivities, initiated the swim countdown. At precisely 12:30 pm, a dazzling firework display, courtesy of Westcoast Fireworks, marked the moment as swimmers bravely surged into the sea.

Fancy dress enthusiasts added a colorful touch to the event, with Mick Booth and Rachel Lemmon from Saundersfoot clinching the group fancy dress award for their creative representation of a defibrillator and heart.

The individual award went to David Mc Dermott, showcasing the creativity and enthusiasm of the participants.

Chris Williams, Chairman of Saundersfoot Festivities, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support, emphasising that the event has grown beyond their initial expectations. Reflecting on the event’s longevity and success, Williams said, “Our driving force, as always, is the huge number of fantastic causes that benefit.”

This year, a significant change was the introduction of an online registration and ticketing system to manage costs and enhance swimmer

safety. Williams expressed satisfaction with the seamless execution of this new approach and thanked the community for their support in making it a success.

“The additional income from online ticketing will secure the future of the swim and contribute to the many charities and worthwhile causes,” Williams added.

Acknowledging the dedicated efforts of the organising committee, Williams extended thanks to safety marshals, volunteers, sponsors, and partner organisations. He highlighted the invaluable contributions of Tenby Surf & Rescue, Pembroke Paddlers, Saundersfoot Sailing Club, HM Coast

Guard, and the RNLI for providing water safety cover. Special recognition was also given to St John’s Ambulance, Tenby Fire Brigade, and the police for their emergency support.

As a gesture of appreciation, Williams thanked sponsors and local businesses, expressing gratitude for their overwhelming support. He singled out individuals and organisations such as Richard Merriman, Salt On The Strand, Dan Roach & Partners, Hean Castle Estate, Saundersfoot Harbour Commission, and others for going above and beyond expectations.

Williams concluded with an invitation for participants to submit their

sponsor forms to Salt On The Strand after collecting their sponsorship. He assured swimmers that details about photo uploads and the amount raised for charities would follow by the end of January.

For those seeking more information on the swim, including photos and updates, visit www. saundersfootfestivities. co.uk/nyds. Follow the swim mascot, Charlie Shivers, on Facebook, X, and Instagram @CharlieShivers.

Photographer Gareth Davies captured the essence of the event, and swim photos can be obtained from Gareth Davies Photography at Tel: 07836 334436.

Runners raise over £3,000 for Cardiac Care Unit

SAM Faulkner and Gavin Gilman ran the Great North Run in September and raised £3,730 for the Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) at Withybush Hospital.

The pair raised the funds in memory of Sam’s Dad who sadly passed away following two heart attacks in July.

Sam said: “The ward staff were so great and patient with my Dad who was very anxious about being in hospital. They were fabulous with us as a family both during his stay in CCU and in handling the bereavement after he passed away.”

Gavin said: “The Great North Run was super challenging and emotional. The day was tough but knowing we were running for Hywel Dda Health Charities got us through.

“The weather on the day was good, until the end, and it felt like all of Newcastle were out cheering us on.

“We feel proud to have raised so much for the Cardiac Care Unit at Withybush Hospital. It is a small token of our appreciation for the excellent care they gave Sam’s Dad during his final few days. It has inspired us to do more fundraising for the charity in future.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Sam and Gavin for their incredible fundraising.

“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.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk

Welsh pop legend Aloma wins cancer battle in time for TV tribute

WELSH pop legend

Aloma James has spoken movingly about how she was in a “dark place” after being diagnosed with lung cancer.

After battling chronic fatigue syndrome or ME for decades, the news earlier this year that she had cancer came as a huge shock to Angleseyborn Aloma, one half of the hugely popular duo, Tony and Aloma.

Thankfully, she has been able to “ring the bell” to mark being all-clear after undergoing radiotherapy.

She received the treatment just before recording a special episode of the S4C entertainment series, Noson Lawen, which will celebrate the pair’s 60 years in showbusiness.

Their popularity soared in the 1960s and 70s when

they bewitched Welsh audiences with classic songs like Mae Gen i Gariad (I Have a Love) and Dim Ond Ti a Fi (Only You and Me) and sold more than 100,000 albums.

The duo performed nightly to audiences all over Wales, topping the bill in cabarets, TV shows and concerts - opening stores and singing for the royal family.

They later took over

Furry Animals star Gruff Rhys as “to Welsh pop music what the Hilton, Las Vegas was to Elvis” – where they carried on performing to their ardent fans.

The Noson Lawen special paying tribute to their huge contribution to the Welsh music scene will be broadcast on S4C on Saturday, January 6, when Kris Hughes will be chatting to them about their long career.

There will also be performances of their best known numbers by some current Welsh singing stars, including Rhys Meirion, Dylan Morris, Ffion Emyr, Aeron Pughe, Catrin Angharad and, Wil Tân, with Aloma’s husband, Roy, accompanying some of the song on the piano.

According to Aloma, she and Tony were grateful to Caernarfon-based TV production company Cwmni Da for making the special programme after she was given the all-clear.

Aloma said: “In the next few months the doctors will continue to monitor me and I’ll have scans and such but thank God, the cancer’s gone.”

She believes her determination to fight the chronic fatigue syndrome,

generations of fans and the show just underlines how absolutely brilliant they were.

“This programme is a special in the true sense of the word because it’s another opportunity to rollout their back catalogue of fantastic hits, really memorable songs that make your toes tap or your heart weep.

“At the end of the recording, today’s crop of stars who took part in the show were queuing up to take selfies with Tony and Aloma which speaks volumes of their enduring popularity and legendary status in Wales.”

Aloma added: “We’re grateful for Cwmni Da believing we deserve a programme like this after such a long time.

“At first we didn’t think we could do it. Tony didn’t want to do it because he thinks he’s too old, he’s 84 now.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or ME helped her overcome the latest illness.

“I was diagnosed with ME nearly 30 years ago. It was relatively unknown illness at the time and it took a while to be diagnosed.

“There is not much in the way of treatment for ME but it has had quite an effect on me but in our business the show must go on.

“One example is when we were doing a summer season in Eastbourne with the comedian Tom O’Connor and we had to smile and play and sing but some nights I came off stage and passed out.

“It was the same in the hotel. We had to make sure the guests were happy. I’ve fought it over the years and haven’t let it rule over me and it was the same with the cancer diagnosis.

“I’ve been down and in a very dark place and thinking the worst and then saying to myself ‘come on, it could be worse, and thankfully I received good news. Many people don’t get the all clear and I’ve been lucky,” she said.

Olwen Meredydd, producer of Noson Lawen, said: “Tony and Aloma are giants of the Welsh pop scene who are beloved by

“I had been diagnosed with cancer and had just had treatment but we couldn’t refuse the offer and I was really glad we did. We had a very special day.”

Noson Lawen is the longest-running light entertainment programme on television in Europe, and videos on its YouTube channel have been viewed 10 million times.

Olwen Meredydd added: “Noson Lawen is one of the most popular Welsh YouTube channels in the world and we kept getting requests for lyrics to the songs. That was the impetus to create the Karaoke channel.

“We hope it will be a resource for young singers to learn songs for concerts, auditions and competitions; an opportunity for Welsh learners to practice through song and an opportunity for everyone to enjoy singing Welsh karaoke at parties, weddings, social evenings, in the pub or even at home in front of the mirror!”

The Noson Lawen special paying tribute to Tony and Aloma will be broadcast on S4C on Saturday, January 6, and the Karaoke channel can be found at www.youtube.com/@ NosonLawen

the Gresham Hotel in Blackpool – described by Super

Tony and Aloma being interviewed by Kris Hughes

Tony and Aloma in their heyday

Fishguard’s New Year’s Eve street party draws crowd of thousands

FISHGUARD’S New Year’s Eve Street Party welcomed thousands of revellers from near and far to bid farewell to 2023 and usher in the promises of 2024. The picturesque town in Pembrokeshire became the epicenter of one of the most anticipated street parties in the UK, attracting crowds of all ages, including some who had journeyed from as far away as Australia.

The festivities kicked off early in the day at the town hall, where doors swung open to reveal a kids’ zone. Packed with bouncy castles, an air hockey table, and mini basketball, the venue provided the perfect setting for families to gather and enjoy precelebration entertainment, setting the tone for the night ahead.

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Essential 80’s took the stage, blending nostalgic hits with contemporary TikTok favorites, ensuring everyone in the diverse crowd had a reason to celebrate.

The transition to 2024 was marked by a mass countdown that resonated through the square, followed by the traditional strains of ‘Auld Lang Syne,’ skillfully played by a talented piper.

The atmosphere was charged with excitement, as young children, teenagers, parents, and grandparents shared in the joyous moment.

The pinnacle of the night came with a spectacular fireworks display that painted the night sky over Fishguard Square with bursts of colors and explosive

As the clock struck 8 pm, Fishguard Square reverberated with the infectious beats of local ska band Sorted, ensuring the crowd was dancing and grooving to their unique blend of tunes and showmanship. The energy only intensified when headliners

sounds. The awestruck crowd witnessed a breathtaking finale, marking the end of 2023 in a blaze of technicolour.

Security staff, whose enthusiasm matched that of the revellers, contributed to the overall spirit of celebration, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Fishguard’s New Year’s Eve Street Party has once again proven to be a beacon of unity, bringing the community together to create lasting memories and kickstart the new year with a bang. As the echoes of laughter and cheers fade away, the people of Fishguard can look back on this memorable celebration as a testament to the strength of their community and the joy that can be found in coming together to welcome a new year.

In a statement shared on the organisers’ Facebook page, they expressed their delight at the event’s success,

saying, “Fishguard’s New Year’s Eve Street Party was a resounding success, and we are overjoyed to see so many people from our community and beyond come together to celebrate. The diverse crowd, the fantastic music, and the breathtaking fireworks

display truly made it a night to remember. Thank you to everyone who joined us, and here’s to a fantastic 2024!”

Fishguard’s New Year’s Eve Street Party has once again proven to be a beacon of unity, bringing the community together to create lasting memories and kickstart

the new year with a bang. As the echoes of laughter and cheers fade away, the people of Fishguard can look back on this memorable celebration as a testament to the strength of their community and the joy that can be found in coming together to welcome a new year.

Triumph for Teifi Valley Motor Club

IN A DISPLAY of unwavering determination and skill, members of the Teifi Valley Motor Club (TVMC) have left an indelible mark on the recently concluded Roger Albert Clarke Historic Rally, touted as ‘Britain’s most challenging rally.’ The 2023 edition, spanning 350 special stage miles across Wales, England, and Scotland, proved to be the largest and toughest in the event’s storied history.

TVMC stole the spotlight, with driver Dyfrig James and codriver Emyr Jones securing an impressive fourth position overall, accompanied by a welldeserved first in their class award. The duo, with a rally partnership spanning over two decades, showcased their mettle in the face of stiff competition, leaving

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their mark in a field of world-class teams and drivers.

Reflecting on their achievement, Dyfrig James, a father of three, expressed his elation, saying, “A top twenty would have been a great result for us as a team of friends, but what we managed to achieve together was unbelievable.” The 39mile stage to the finish, the longest gravel stage in the UK in over 40 years, added an extra layer of challenge, making their triumph even more remarkable.

For Dyfrig, the rally held a sentimental value, inspired by the tales of his great uncle Washington James, who participated in the 1970 World Cup Rally from London to Mexico. Washington’s stories fueled Dyfrig’s childhood

dreams, and now, he shares the same passion with his own children.

“My great uncle competed against works teams and drivers from across the globe and finished in 15th position overall with a team of friends in a car prepped as a hobby in the Teifi

the unique opportunity the

Albert Clark Rally offers to follow in his great uncle’s footsteps.

Emyr Jones, the codriver, described the rally as overwhelming, citing immense crowd support and kindness from

enthusiasts. He urged others to experience the thrill if given the chance. Both Dyfrig and Emyr expressed gratitude to friends, family, and sponsors for their unwavering support throughout the challenging rally.

Other TVMC

members also made their mark in the competition. Geraint Davies and Eurig James secured an impressive 15th position overall, while Aled Richards and Lyn Davies claimed 78th overall and 21st in class. Gwynfor Jones and Adrian Young emerged victorious in class D3, securing 25th place overall. Mike Roberts and Ken Bowman showcased their prowess with a commendable 4th in class and 48th overall.

TVMC Chairman Peter Lewis conveyed his pride in the achievements of the club members, applauding their resilience and success in one of Great Britain’s most iconic rallies. Looking forward, Dyfrig James expressed his desire for continued support in 2025, eager to relive the thrill and strive for an even better result.

Valley,” Dyfrig shared, emphasizing

Roger

Local teen Elly honoured for fundraising efforts

13-YEAR-OLD Elyn Neville, known by many as Elly, has become the youngest recipient of the New Year’s Honours in the county’s history.

The Withybush Hospital advocate has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her exceptional contributions to charitable services for cancer patients and cancer services in Pembrokeshire.

Elly’s journey began at the tender age of five and a half when she embarked on a fundraising mission, initially raising £500 for the cancer ward at Withybush Hospital, where her father received critical cancer treatment. Now, years later, Elly stands as the face of a monumental fundraising appeal that has amassed an impressive £210,339.21 for the enhancement of cancer services at Withybush Hospital, alongside an additional £16,500 for children’s services.

At the heart of Elly’s philanthropy is the ‘Ward 10 Flag’ campaign, a tireless four-year effort by Elly and the Neville family. Commencing with a flag crafted from bottle tops for a junior school project,

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the campaign grew exponentially, garnering support not only from the local community but also from notable celebrities who played a pivotal role in reaching the staggering fundraising total.

The funds raised, including generous contributions from companies such as Hasbro, have significantly impacted the Withybush Hospital Cancer Ward. Originally envisioned as an initiative to purchase cushions and rugs for the ward, Elly’s vision evolved into a comprehensive refurbishment of Ward 10, completed in 2019. The revamped facility now caters specifically to oncology and haematology patients, as well as those with complex palliative care needs.

Elly expressed her joy at receiving the BEM, stating, “It is amazing to be given a BEM and a big surprise. I am just really happy to have been able to help people who are going through cancer like my dad did.” Her father, Lyn Neville, shared in the pride, remarking, “We are just so very proud of all

that Elly has achieved.”

The Pembrokeshire Herald has extensively covered Elly Neville’s extraordinary journey, from the humble beginnings of her junior school project to the monumental success of

had for what now now feels like many weeks, it is becoming obvious that the climate emergency is here and showing the planet what we have done to it. As the Tories and PM Sunak continue with their soundbite of “Stop the Boats”, I suppose we can expect them to claim credit for the bad weather that is stopping the flimsy rubber dingies crossing the Channel in recent days.

It is therefore imperative that I use the last part of his article. Ed Davey was Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change 2012-2015, and led the UK delegation to three UN Climate Change Conferences. You can read the first half in the Positively Liberal article in 22nd December, online.

“The climate diplomacy needed at this moment differs from that in one crucial aspect – the extremely challenging and urgent task of convincing middle and low income countries with fossil fuel resources that if they give up the future oil and gas revenues they currently hope will speed up their development, they can still enjoy a path to prosperity. We have to convince the political leaderships from Nigeria to Uganda, from Cameroon to Colombia that climate action can be in their national interest and that further fossil fuel extraction will be against their national interest.”

climate leadership possible for the run-up to Brazil’s COP30.”

“The final requirement for success in the battle to stop global warming –the right combination of political leadership and technological confidence – is sadly not in the gift of any UK Government or Parliament, though an appreciation of its significance might still shape constructive actions.”

“Paris COP21 was partly successful because President Obama’s diplomacy and the EU’s unexpectedly strong climate ambition helped encourage China and India to move further than anyone had predicted. Combined with breakthroughs on the economics of solar power which gave countries confidence the transition would be more affordable, there was a happy moment where the politics and economics aligned.”

“Since then the politics have deteriorated significantly. The threat of a second Trump Presidency and the relative success of authoritarian regimes have further undermined the ability of western liberal democracies credibly to persuade, incentivise and cajole the rest of the world into action.”

the Ward 10 Flag Appeal. Elly’s fundraising legacy is now immortalised in the newly refurbished Ward 10, where her flag proudly resides, symbolising hope, resilience, and the power of communitydriven initiatives.

“Liberal internationalists must take on board Anatol Lieven’s important insights in “Climate change and the nation state”, that wishful thinking that political elites around the world will somehow embrace altruistic global action because we ask them to, is dangerously naïve. A better response must see western democracies putting their own house in order and offering the generous support for development the UK used to do. Without such realism, future COPs are bound to fail again. To date, only the Liberal Democrats are offering any credible policies to make a renewal of Britain’s global

“The march of technology remains the brightest hope. Policies that invest in the additional technologies we will need from clean flight to naturebased solutions, that share the know-how and support the deployment of game-changers like solar power and that switch the investments from dirty energy to clean may yet overcome the multiple barriers of vested interests of nations and corporates.”

“Ultimately, to make those policies happen however, we need politicians who genuinely care – ready to put in the graft and capable of taking the political initiative. Noone can possibly still believe the UK’s Conservatives are up to this. I am completely convinced the Liberal Democrats are.” On behalf of Pembrokeshire Liberal Democrats, I wish readers a Happy New Year.

bLUE ViEW First Minister’s New Year message

sTEPHEN CRAbb MP

ASIDE from the neardaily rain and windy weather we experienced in Pembrokeshire during the final days of December, there was a lot to feel positive about as 2023 drew to a close. Out and about at various local events just before Christmas, I was struck again by the sense of community and togetherness which is such a strong characteristic of our County.

From the switching on of the Christmas lights in Milford Haven and Haverfordwest, which both drew large crowds of local people, to the wonderful carol services at churches like St Katherine’s in Milford, the festive period brought people together in a very special way.

I had the privilege of attending the prize giving at Haverfordwest VC High School where dozens of pupils were recognised for their achievements - not just in terms of outstanding exam results but across so many other areas of school life. It was really encouraging to see the event so well supported by parents, current and former pupils, and also by people from the wider community in the Haverfordwest area.

The Headteacher Mrs Harries and her staff team have done a brilliant job in forging a new school ethos, building on the traditions and achievements of the two secondary schools that were merged together a few years ago. As a former pupil of Tasker Milward, I was sorry at the time to see my old school disappear, but I came away from the prizegiving feeling a deep sense of pride in what the new school is achieving for local youngsters. In reality, my old school hasn’t disappeared. It lives on in the fabulous new building and under the banner of a unified secondary school for the town.

Earlier in December, the Port of Milford Haven hosted a wonderful celebration event in Cardiff to mark 65 years

since the passing of the Act of Parliament that created the modern port. The event was attended by national politicians but the majority of people and organisations there were Pembrokeshire throughand-through.

In my short speech at the event, I spoke about the legacy of the Port for our community in terms of jobs and economic activity. Looking out across the room that evening and seeing such a wide range of local people, it underlined the importance of ‘Team Pembrokeshire’. The truth is that a small County like Pembrokeshire, located out on the far west periphery of Wales, can only achieve its potential when we work together in a joined-up way.

Securing the Celtic Freeport earlier in the year was a good example of this ‘Team Pembrokeshire’ approach. The Port, the Council, local businesses, and the local MPs and Members of the Senedd all working together to achieve a common goal. As the Freeport links together Milford Haven with Port Talbot, this meant working with partners further ‘up the line’ too. Myself and Stephen Kinnock, the MP for Port Talbot, put aside our party differences to take a lead on this project in Parliament and help get it across the line.

2023 also some good wins in terms of new funding for Pembrokeshire. Again, team work was key to this success. I was pleased to work with a number of local community groups in their bids to the UK Community Ownership Fund. Local pubs like Y Cross in Hayscastle Cross and the Crymych Arms have been saved for future generations thanks to the hard work of the volunteers who had the vision to regenerate these important community facilities.

2024 will bring all sorts of new challengesand a general election at some point in the year. In the meantime, the work continues.

THE FIRST MINISTER has said he will focus of fulfilling his promises in his last new year’s message to the nation.

In his message Mark Drakeford says as follows: “Blwyddyn Newydd Dda. Happy new year to you all. I hope you had a merry and peaceful Christmas.

“As another year draws to a close and we get ready to welcome 2024, our thoughts naturally turn to the future.

“It is a time for making plans for the year ahead. For making new resolutions. And for thinking about changes to come.

“This will be the last new year’s message I make as your First Minister, as this year will

signal a change for me personally.

“But until that time comes, I will be focused on this job – delivering on the promises I made to you.

“As the new year dawns, we hope for an end to the terrible

conflicts and violence which have dominated this year and last, especially in Ukraine.

“The fighting must stop in the Middle East. We have to redouble our efforts to find a pathway to a lasting peace, which is fair to both Palestinians and Israelis.

“The new year is a new start and I’m sure we all have ambitions and hopes for the year ahead.

“Let’s hope for a peaceful 2024 and brighter and happier times ahead.”

M b E for Tenby’s lifeboat fundraising stalwart Doreen, 89 DOREEN

MORTIMER, a volunteer RNLI Shop Manager in Tenby has been awarded a MBE alongside Ken Fitzpatrick, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Porthdinllaen is set to receive a BEM. The RNLI volunteers in Wales are amongst six RNLI volunteers who have been recognised by His Majesty The King for their incredible contribution to the charity as it approaches its 200th anniversary on 4 March.

Doreen has generated more than £1 million in the last 11 years alone and whose dedication has made her shop in Tenby consistently the second busiest in the UK and Ireland.

During 26 years with her local fundraising branch, Doreen’s tireless devotion to the RNLI’s cause has seen her volunteering for up to 50 hours a week during peak periods despite being 89 years old.

Doreen said: ‘I was absolutely gobsmacked when I found out, and very honoured of course – not in a million years did I expect anything like this.

‘Really, it’s all thanks

to everybody I’ve worked with. I’ve led a team here for 15 years but without the volunteers, I’d be nothing. This award is a thank you to everyone who’s helped at the shop.’

Determined to continue giving her time to the organisation she calls her family for years to come, Doreen doesn’t plan to step down any time soon.

She said: ‘The RNLI has kept my grey cells going and hopefully it will continue. To me it’s always been my family and an important part of my life, one I may have to give up eventually, but not for now while I’m still able.’

Also set to receive a BEM is volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) at Porthdinllaen RNLI, Ken Fitzpatrick.

First joining the RNLI at 17 years old in 1967, Ken has since given 44 years of his time as both a volunteer and staff member in various roles at the station: crew, mechanic, coxswain and now LOM.

During this time, the crew has launched 942 times, aided 910 people and saved 120 lives.

Ken said: ‘I’m hugely proud of the work I have

done with the RNLI, the institution has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. The RNLI has always been part of me, it’s a big family and this award is for everyone involved in that family here in north Wales.

‘It came as a huge surprise to find out I was being honoured in this way I never expected it. You don’t do this work for reward.’

2023 has been a big year for the 75-year-old. As well as receiving a BEM, he was also Bard of the National Eisteddfod of Wales.

Six RNLI volunteers with 189 years of service between them have been honoured in total.

RNLI Chief Executive, Mark Dowie said: ‘It is wonderful to see these six individuals recognised as we commence the RNLI’s 200th anniversary,

each representing different roles across the charity which all make a significant contribution to saving lives at sea.

‘It is particularly poignant to see recognition for our longest standing seagoing crewmember in the Isle of Man, which is where our founder Sir William Hillary came from.

‘It is our people who make the RNLI one of the UK and Ireland’s most treasured institutions. All six recipients will be too humble to claim this recognition in their own right. For them it is all about the teams they volunteer and work with and the wider RNLI family which I am honoured to be part of. My congratulations to them all in this extra special year in the RNLI’s lifesaving history.’

FUW President’s New Year’s Message

2024 promises to be a momentous year not just for agriculture in Wales, as we engage with the final Sustainable Farming Scheme consultation, but also across the political realm with a General Election on the horizon and we will also see a new First Minister with Welsh Labour about to embark upon a leadership election following the decision by Mark Drakeford to announce his retirement.

For Wales and farming, there are big issues at stake.

At the front of our minds is the final Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) consultation.

The SFS will form the mechanism through which farmers will receive support in Wales from 2025 onwards.

I urge members to engage fully with us on this as a matter of urgency. It is the most important change to Welsh agricultural policy since the genesis of the Common Agricultural Policy in 1962, and we, as a Union, know that we can’t afford to get this wrong.

Any future payment scheme based on environmental and public goods outcomes must protect family farms, support rural

communities and maintain employment in rural Wales.

Such a scheme must ensure that agriculture is both sustainable and rewarding. Failing to do so will most likely lead to serious damage to Wales’ family farms and the role they play in Wales’ economy, society, culture, and landscape.

Policy priorities that we have outlined time and time again during 2023 and over the various other consultations over the past five years continue to underpin our key asks in relation to the Sustainable Farming Scheme. This SFS must be practical for all farmers in Wales and deliver on our economic, environmental and social sustainability goals.

There might be some among us who can manage without that direct support, but the Welsh Farm Business Survey shows that most of us rely on such support for the survival of our farm business. It would be folly to suggest that, as a sector, we can manage and thrive without any suport.

Therefore, securing funding for the sector remains an essential element of our focus for this coming year.

Whilst we recognise the challenges that the Welsh Government must contend with, the entire

Departmental Rural Affairs Budget of £482 million represents just 2% of the Welsh Government Budget.

It is vitally important that as a minimum, this budget is maintained to ensure that our obligations and ambitions in relation to food, nature and climate are achieved.

If you have read our ‘The role of farm support in Wales’ livestock supply chains’ report, it is clear what would need to change if the direct support payments were to be reduced significantly.

We used five years of Welsh Farm Business Survey figures to investigate what increases in profits or reductions in selected input costs would be needed to maintain average livestock farm profits if direct support was cut by 50% and 100%.

The resulting figures make for very uncomfortable reading and should serve as a warning to those who think that the industry can continue to produce food whilst also delivering on the many other key asks made of agriculture by the Government.

As we go into a New Year that may well see a change of Government at Westminster and new leadership within Government here

WE are frequently told about the disaster that is Brexit. As someone who voted for it and who also supports Welsh independence, I am often asked by friends and family, “how can you support both?”.

This week I will aim to explain why Brexit and Welsh independence is not the dichotomy that some would have us believe and why pro-independence parties, like Plaid Cymru and the Wales Green party should acknowledge this.

Never does a day go by that I don’t hear at least some politician or other high-profile person in the media berate the UK for leaving the European Union.

in Wales, it is more important than ever for politicians and policymakers to fully understand the economic role farm support plays within the context of our rural economy.

Let me be absolutely clear - any cuts, however large, will have a knockon effect on many nonfarming businesses here in Wales, with our modelled worstcase scenario showing that some non-farming business sectors would lose tens of millions in income.

The inevitable impact of such a decline in business activity here in rural Wales will undoubtedly have a direct impact on business viability, rural employment and the very communities that are the backbone of rural Wales.

There is also a very clear disconnect between Government aspirations to have environmental policies and the failures (as we have seen with the Habitat Wales Scheme) to support such schemes with adequate funding.

This coming year will undoubtedly bring many challenges, but we will be there for our members, striving to ensure we have thriving, sustainable family farms in Wales for generations to come.

Those of us who made that decision in 2016 are often branded as bigoted and condemned for ruining our children’s futures.

For the 855k or so in Wales who chose to leave the European Union, I doubt that the Brexit referendum was an arbitrary choice.

I recognise then and now, that EU membership conferred major benefits such as Single Market membership and free movement – and I remain somewhat conflicted about my decision in these respects.

I would also be lying if I said that the effects of Brexit – said to be costing the British economy around £100bn a year in a Bloomberg report – does not concern me.

However, I am certainly no bigot, nor do I know of any person whose decision to vote for Brexit was influenced by prejudice.

According to a poll of 12,369 people taken by Lord Ashcroft on the day of the referendum, the top reason given for wanting to leave the European Union by nearly half of voters was sovereignty – the principle that decisions about the UK, should be made in the UK.

While other reasons did include concerns about immigration and the economy, immigration was not the top, let alone the sole reason given for voting leave.

Another reason given for leaving was antiestablishment politics. Something that seems to be glossed over by politicians, who seem to want to dismiss the fact that they are out of touch with public concerns. Nowhere is this more apparent than with the cost-of-living crisis.

Bureaucracy is a more rarely cited reason given for leaving.

The sheer number of EU directives mandated to become law by Acts of Parliament (as was the case in the UK) meant confusion and sometimes conflicts with existing UK laws.

Furthermore, many people felt that the decision-making process in Brussels was far too remote to affect the UK in any meaningful way, and many have said that they did not feel represented by the European Parliament. For supporters of Welsh independence – these concerns should sound familiar.

So, this brings me to the final part of my argument – what do Welsh independence and Brexit voters have in common? The answer is the desire for sovereignty.

As a Brexit and Welsh independence supporter –we are not as uncommon as the movement would have you think. In polls carried out since Britain left the EU, roughly a third of Brexit voters are said to support independence in both Wales and Scotland. Unsurprisingly, the figure is higher among Remain voters.

However, the point is this. Parties in favour of independence need to respect the fact that Wales voted to leave the EU and to understand that the reasons for doing so were multi-faceted.

Rather than advocating that we are pulled back into the EU, they should advocate for a position whereby the decision to join the EU or the Single Market must be left to Welsh citizens in a postindependent Wales.

AS WE bid farewell to the challenges and triumphs of the past year, the dawn of 2024 brings a sense of renewed hope and anticipation for the future. For advocates of social justice, equality and fairness, this year holds the promise of genuine change – a transformation that could well be ushered in by a Labour government in May.

As a Labour politician, the prospect of a government prioritising the needs of the many invigorates me. Our vision is clear: a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of background, economic status or postcode. In the coming months, we have the chance to turn this vision into reality and set our nation on a path towards a fairer and more inclusive future.

Meanwhile, Wales’s political landscape faces its own pivotal moment. The resignation of Mark Drakeford at the end of 2023 marks the end of an era, paving the way for a new First Minister by March 2024.

Mark’s departure leaves behind a substantial legacy of

resilience, progress, and an unwavering commitment to public service. His leadership guided Wales through turbulent times, from the challenges of the pandemic to the complexities of Brexit. I extend my sincere appreciation to him for his dedicated service to Wales and his steadfast support during my tenure as a minister in his government. Despite my decision not to run for leadership, I remain committed to contributing my efforts to building a just and prosperous future for all in Wales. The upcoming elections offer a chance for unity and collaboration within the Labour Party, ensuring that our shared values guide us toward a future that prioritises the well-being of our people, tackles economic disparities and champions social justice.

As we embark on this new chapter, let us embrace change with optimism and determination. The road ahead may be uncertain, but together, with a united front, we can work towards a brighter, more inclusive future for Wales.

Happy New Year, and here’s to the possibilities that lie ahead!

Darts, nappies, and cheers at the pub

AHOY there, feathered folks and salty readers of The Pembrokeshire Herald! Stephen Seagull here, ready to dive into the latest currents of news, and this week, we’ve got a tale that’s as thrilling as the crashing waves on the cliffs of Pembrokeshire.

So, have you heard about the young darting dynamo, Luke Littler?

Picture this – a video montage crafted by his sister Lisa, capturing the fledgling dart aficionado with his very first dartboard. His mum, echoing like the seagulls by the seaside, championing a growth mindset. None of that “Holy feathers, you’re a genius!” business.

At a mere 18 months old, the lad’s got that rhythmic darting flair, a metronome of thunk, thunk, thunk – fast, sure, and unbroken. Now, I’ve only recently grasped what that means, but I reckon it’s a bit like the rhythmic beats of waves

against the shore, only with more arrows involved.

But let me tell you, the path from a nappywearing prodigy to a 16-year-old finalist in the world darts championship is no smooth sailing. His elders, vanquished in the wake of his darting prowess, can’t quite pinpoint the exact blend of nature and nurture that propelled him to the finals. And would you

believe it? In that home video where the dart star was born, he was rocking a nappy – talk about starting from the bottom of the pecking order!

For the rest of the world, the rise of a child prodigy is a heartwarming spectacle. Tiger Woods on TV at two? Feather-rufflingly adorable! But for the Littler prodigy to lift our nation’s spirits, even as a runner-up, it had to be the noble game of darts.

Darts, my feathered friends, holds a unique place in the British social lexicon. No whiff of privilege, no country club sidebars. Littler’s dad snagged that first dartboard at a pound shop. The amateur precinct? A pub – the cathedral of nonnationalist patriotism, cherished by Nigel Farage and Gary Lineker alike.

Now, let’s talk values. While other sports may demand athleticism, training, and physical endurance, darts keeps it simple. You can play with a pint in hand, and breaking into a sweat? That’s for the birds! The irony, self-mockery, and playfulness in codifying a sport that requires skill but no exertion – that’s as British as a seaside breeze.

Darts has weathered its fair share of snobbery, like a seabird navigating a storm. Martin Amis and his “darts, Keith” motif in London Fields, the sport dismissed as scummy and meagre. But the world of darts pays little mind to such sneering. If anything, it adds a touch of authenticity to the game.

As we chart young Littler’s journey, from the red walls of St Helens to the dazzling lights of Ally Pally, we witness the transformation of darts from a symbol of the “working class left behind” to a vibrant, experimental spectacle. The superfans and broadcast money have turned the PDC World Championships into a prize pot that would make even the seagulls squawk – two and a half million quid!

Watching Luke Littler’s ascent is a joy, not just for his darting skills but for the daft things 16-year-olds do – like wanting to treat friends to a theme park. Burly and confident, standing like a pub landlord, he embodies the spirit of Bullseye. So, hats off to the lad, and cheers to darts – the real winner, no matter who takes home the trophy!

Sor

Nissan EV among world’s great transport innovations of the last 90 years

THE world’s first mass-market electric vehicle has secured its place among some of the world’s greatest transport innovations according to a survey conducted by Nissan to mark its 90th birthday this week.

Since the company was founded, on 26th December 1933, Nissan has established a storied history of pioneering electric vehicles, legendary performance cars and revolutionary crossovers that demonstrate its own daring spirit of innovation over the last nine decades.

From the 1947 Tama electric vehicle, via the LEAF – the world’s first mass-market EV in 2010 – to recently revealed future EV concepts like the Hyper Punk and Hyper Urban, the company strives to enrich people’s lives with thrilling journeys and pioneering technology that help to create a cleaner, safer and more inclusive world.

To mark its 90 years of automotive success, Nissan commissioned a OnePoll survey of 2,000 UK adults to find out people’s opinions on a list of other significant transport innovations of

the last 90 years – with the opening of the Channel Tunnel, Concorde’s first flight and the invention of satnav coming out on top. The electrification of the London Underground, the first modern hovercraft and the first zebra crossing also ranked in the top 30.

Looking to the future, the study showed that 69 per cent think that new technologies will play a big part in reducing the environmental impact of transportation in this country.

The survey also revealed that 27 per cent are in favour of introducing artificial intelligence into the car industry, while 29 per cent hold the same views for public transport.

With artificial intelligence (AI) becoming increasingly commonplace in dayto-day life, Nissan has utilised the technology to bring its 90-year heritage to life by imagining transport scenes that compare the Tama, its first ever electric car in 1947, to the modern-day Ariya EV.

Andrew Humberstone, managing director of Nissan GB, said: “Over the last 90 years, we’ve always dared to do things

differently at Nissan and have delivered some truly ground-breaking innovations along the way.

“We’re so proud of this pioneering spirit and the people who make up our incredible global team at Nissan - I look forward to sharing more automotive design, technology and driving excitement with our customers in the future.”

The Nissan LEAF featured at number 19 on the list, while EVs specifically were voted as the innovation that holds the most promise for the future of UK sustainability. A third of those polled also believe the motor industry has undergone the most exciting changes over the past nine decades - compared to aviation, rail, and cycling.

More sustainable road travel (38 per cent), scientific advancement (16 per cent), and employment opportunities (11 per cent) were also seen as the biggest opportunities within the EV industry.

Seventy percent of those surveyed believe transport innovations have had a positive impact on their own lives, and 54 per cent claim

it has made travelling easier for them.

Almost three quarters (71 per cent) agree it has improved their ability to travel and commute up and down the country, and staying connected with family and friends has become easier for 30 per cent.

What’s more, 41 per cent of those polled have been able to save time on their journeys, and 43 per cent are able to travel to longer distance locations thanks to the various innovations.

TRANSPORT INNOVATIONS OF THE LAST 90 YEARS

1976 - Concorde makes first passengercarrying supersonic flight 1957 - First flight of a commercial jet airliner 1994 - The opening of the channel tunnel 1958 - First commercial jet airliner 1981 - Maiden flight of the space shuttle 1960 - Launch of the first Sat Nav 1951 - Creation of power steering 1988 - First airbag 1934 - Introduction of the Driving Test 1955 - Creation of the Hovercraft 1959 - The first three-

point seat belt 2022 - First zeroemissions electric flight takes place 1939 - First practical helicopter built 1949 - First zebra crossing 1971 - The Lunar Roving vehicle is used on the moon 1964 - Launch of the Bullet Train 1939 - Creation of automatic transmission 1967 - Automatic Train Operation: London Underground 2010 - Launch of the world’s first massproduced electric car 1984 - Driverless Cars 1953 - First air conditioning in a car 2022 - First railway line run by hydrogenpowered trains 1971 - ABS technology first used on a car

1940 - First electric bus delivered 2003 - First automatic parking 2016 - First hydrogenpowered flight 1984 - First car with a CD player

2001 - First handsfree Bluetooth kit 2018 - First driverless trams tested 1958 - Creation of cruise control

le TT er S & no TI ce S

by Richard Rees

JEsUs AND THE FUTURE

DEAR SIR,

Before his death, Jesus predicted the future, that the influence of God would ensure that the understanding of moral and spiritual values which Jesus had revealed, would advance together with our understanding of facts on this planet, Science.

Jesus explained to disciples that he would never capitulate to Roman injustice, although Pilate would have rewarded an insincere endorsement, to pacify rebellious mob anger and hatred. So Jesus’ life had to be sacrificed.

At the Last Supper, Jesus compared bread and wine, to the sacrifice of his

Body and Blood, which you might see as an analogy, a poetic presentation of truth. Churches continued this Symbolism of our commitment ever since.

Is it rational now, for me to declare that the medically instituted practices of Blood Transfusion and Organ Transplant, today, are exact pragmatic expressions of everything Jesus predicted, involving medical research over centuries, progressively to comprehend Science, essentially united to the determined ambition in some minds, to serve the life needs of persons they will never meet?

Is this an absolutely reasonable claim to make, that the clearly stated aims of Jesus, in his lifetime, are coming to fruition in present everyday reality?

I have no intention to claim that humankind has learnt the wisdom of

the Gospels, in this or any other matter. We knowingly choose to hate the helpless, and choose warfare and death as solutions to problems.

It is true that 18-year olds, are more eager to drive fast cars than give blood, and only 6% of adults get around to it, in our selfcentred society.

But the finest intellect of all time had a more powerful comprehension of this universe and Principles of Ethics, Truth, Justice, Mercy, Compassion, upon which it had been created.

C. N. Westerman

CONsERVATiVE VALUEs

DEAR SIR,

Baroness Mone is the living embodiment

of Conservative values in British society for 200 years, limitless Greed of a Privileged Class, 1% of the population, who possess 50% of its wealth, and most forms of Media, already proven to be criminally dishonest, both by Paparazzi and the Levinsky Tribunal.

Yet Tory thinking progressed further, to TV, Advertising and Social Media, to feed poison to minds of the next generation.

In a comically perverse use of Logic, the Baroness claims it cannot be a crime for her to be declared guilty of telling deliberate falsehoods to the Media, for the reason that it is already a deceitful industry, known to be constantly lying.

Suddenly, her fellow Conservative conspirators whose hands were also in the piggy bank, must throw her overboard, to defend themselves, with more, similar lies.

Twisting the truth of

all facts, has been the success of Conservative Class warfare against the working class majority over generations, with some changes.

So the Gutter Press used naked models to coax readers and their children, that uneducated adults knew better than educated ones. This has now produced TV stations proclaiming Populism, the personal belief of selfcentred and conceited among the ignorant, to attack the knowledge of universities and hospitals, gathered over centuries. ‘Free Speech’ is their right to spread hatred against the helpless. Conservative rule has now disappointed the 14 million who voted for it, as it splinters into conflicting policies, yet voters will not blame themselves, but only MPs, whom they now see as rogues. They even blame Opposition MPs.

PIc Ture oF THe week!

Citizens will mostly vote Labour, but their eventual distaste for Conservatism, can never be enough, (exactly like the Baroness), to discover the ethical values for which Labour has always stood.

Name and address provided

VOLUNTEERiNg FOR RNiD

DEAR SIR,

Have you made your new year resolutions yet?

Need one more? Why don’t you sign up as an RNID volunteer?

RNID, the charity supporting people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus are looking for volunteers to support our vital work across Wales.

Last year, our volunteers gave more than 9,000 hours of their time to support people in their communities with practical information and essential hearing aid care. But with one in five adults in the UK being deaf or having hearing loss or tinnitus there is much more to do to make sure everyone in the UK gets support could involve providing information to local organisations and community groups, helping people get the most out of their hearing aids, or giving a friendly welcome to everyone who passes through the door at one of our support sessions.

Many of our volunteers have hearing loss themselves or in their family, and volunteering with us is a great way to meet new

people, gain new skills and experience, try something new and help people in your community.

What are you waiting for? For more information, visitmrnid.org.uk/join or contact us on 0808 808 0123.

Jackie White, Director at RNID

HELPiNg PEOPLE DURiNg THE ENERgY CRisis

DEAR SIR,

With a focus on fuel poverty, we want to let our customers, across Wales and the south west of England, know that we’re here to provide the support they need to help them in a number of ways. It’s been two years since the energy crisis first began and it’s currently estimated that around 6.3 million households across the UK are in fuel poverty. However, as the gas emergency and pipeline service for the area, we continue to work closely with a network of partner organisations and are committed to supporting those most vulnerable in society. By working together, we offer practical help and guidance on a range of energy issues impacting our customers and communities.

Some ways in which we can help include:

Signing you up to the Priority Services Register (PSR) – this register helps us, and other utilities including electricity and water, to make sure we really look after those who need it most

• Providing alternative cooking and heating and keep warm packs on the very rare occasion that your gas supply is interrupted

• Offering free support and advice about debt, energy bills, energy efficiency and gas safety through our vast partnerships

• Helping more people with low incomes and high heating bills save money through our Warm Home Assistance Fund, so that they can enjoy warm, energy efficient homes through our partnership with Warm Wales and Warm West

• Providing advice on reducing energy and water usage, not only to save money on utility bills but also to minimise environmental footprints.

• Supporting community groups and charities by providing money through the Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA) fund. This fund helps customers stay safe and warm in their own home and supports consumers in vulnerable situations, whilst raising awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide

So, please, if you or someone you know needs support, pass on this information and visit wwutilities.co.uk/services/ priority-customers. Together we can make a difference.

Nigel Winnan

RECLAiMED bUiLDiNg MATERiAL

RUbbisH AND WAsTE REMOVAL

PROFEssiONAL CAR WAsH

PODiATRY

sCRAP METAL

sHUTTERs & bLiNDs

sTORAgE TANKs

sOUND LigHT AND sTAgE

TECHNOLOgY AND COMPUTERs

death notices

bRiAN HARRY WiggiNs

WIGGINS Brian Harry Pembroke (Formerly of Abingdon) The death occurred peacefully at Ashdale Care Home, Pembroke on Saturday 9th. December of Mr. Brian Harry Wiggins, formerly of 57, Norman Avenue, Abingdon. He was 92. A much loved and devoted father and grandfather, he will be greatly missed. The funeral will take place on Wednesday 3rd. January with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, SA67 8UD at 12.15.pm. Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu for The Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

MARgARET giLLiAN

sTORROW

STORROW Margaret Gillian Peacefully on Wednesday 13th December 2023 Margaret Gillian Storrow of Rogeston Farm, Haverfordwest aged 88 years. Beloved wife of the late Philip, much loved mother and mother-in-law of

Jenny (deceased) and Steve, Jo and Dave, Peter and Jackie, loving grandmother and great grandmother. The funeral service will take place on Monday 15th January, 1:00pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to the Paul Sartori Foundation may be sent c/o Jackie Storrow, Rogeston View, Portfield Gate, Haverfordwest, SA62 3LF. Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418.

JAYNE KNigHT KNIGHT Jayne Pembroke

The death occurred peacefully at her home on Thursday 7th December of Mrs. Jayne Knight of Owen Street, Orange Gardens, Pembroke. Jayne was 63 and had borne her illness with courage and great dignity. She will be sadly missed by her all her family and very many friends. The funeral will take place on Thursday 28th December with a service at Monkton Priory Church at 11.00. am followed by interment at Monkton Cemetery. All further enquiries may be made to John Roberts &

Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

JOAN WiNiFRED DiLLY

DILLY Joan Winifred of Highgrove Nursing Home. Joan passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on the 25th December, 2023 aged 90 years. Much loved, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Funeral service, Friday 12th January, 2024 at 2.30pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

PAMELA MAY MARsTON

MARSTON Pamela May Pembroke Dock The death occurred peacefully at The South Pembs. Hospital on Friday 8th December of Mrs. Pamela May Marston of Queen Street, Pembroke Dock. She was 83 and will be greatly missed by all her loving family. The funeral will take place on Tuesday 9th January with a service at St. John’s Church, Pembroke Dock at 1.30.pm followed by interment at Llanion Cemetery. All further enquiries may be made to John Roberts

& Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

JOHN DYFRYg EVANs

EVANS John Dyfryg Ware, Herts (formerly of St Nicholas, Goodwick). The death occurred suddenly on Thursday 14th December. He was 87 and will be remembered as a talented all-round sportsman who was offered a footballing apprenticeship with Bristol City before opting for a career in teaching. Pre-deceased in June by his loving wife Elizabeth Maud Evans (née Lewis) and greatly missed by his children Mark and Vicky and grandchildren Dylan, Owen, Maisie, Angharad and Neirin. The funeral will take place on Thursday 11th January at Leaside Church, Ware, Herts at 11 AM.

DOREEN ‘DOT’ CHAsE (HANNAN)

CHASE Doreen ‘Dot’ (Hannan) Peacefully on 23 December, beloved wife of Charlie, sadly also deceased on 11 December. Dearly loved parents grandparents and friends. A joint funeral will be held on Friday 12th January at 1.00pm at

Parc Gwyn Narberth and afterwards at Cafe on the Quay Solva - Everyone welcome. Enquiries to W.G.Bernard Mathias & Daughter 01437 720537

PAUL WAiNWRigHT

WAINWRIGHT Paul Peacefully at Glangwili Hospital on Thursday 7th December 2023 Paul Wainwright of Haverfordwest aged 61 years. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. The funeral service will take place on Thursday 4th January, 11:30am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, in aid of Hafal and Morriston Hospital Coronary Care Unit may be sent via https://www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/ Paul-wainwright?utm_ term=nwbYPZPgE Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418.

PAULiNE iRENE iNCLEDON INCLEDON

Pauline Irene Neyland The death occurred peacefully at The Meadows Home, Johnston on Sunday 24th December of Mrs. Pauline Irene Incledon, aged 90 years of The Promenade, Neyland. Pauline was loved by her family and friends and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. The funeral service will take place on Monday 8th January at 10.45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only, donations if desired for may be made to a charity of your own choice. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

DEREK gLYNDWR HOWELLs HOWELLS Derek Glyndwr Goodwick Peacefully on Saturday 23rd December at South Pembs Hospital, Derek of Goodwick. Beloved brother of Ceridwen, Barbara, Percy & Richard. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Funeral service on Tuesday 9th January at the Chapel of Rest, Feidr Castell, Fishguard at 11am followed by interment at Llanwnda Cemetery. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Wales Air Ambulance’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

gamIng gamIng

Alright, brace yourselves, comrades, for I’ve ventured into the Metaverse with the Meta Quest 3, and let me tell you, it’s a trip down the rabbit hole that’s making even the most hardened reality junkies question their grip on sanity.

When this bad boy first hit the shelves, it was like, “Hey, where’s the mind-bending, next-gen goodness we were promised?” But fear not, fellow seekers of the virtual unknown, because things have taken a turn for the mesmerizing.

Now, in the sacred month of October, the Meta Quest 3 has unfolded its wings, and we’re witnessing existing titles sprouting enhancements like mushrooms after a heavy rain. Picture this: enhanced graphics that can make your grandma’s lasagna look like a kindergarten finger painting and mixedreality features that’ll have you questioning whether you’re living in a simulation or not.

And oh, the post-launch releases! From the rhythmic carnival of Samba de Amigo:

Virtual Party to the paranormal chaos of Ghostbusters: Rise of the Ghost Lord, we’re swimming in a sea of digital delights. If you were worried about finding excuses to plunge into the rabbit hole, worry no more. The Meta Quest 3 has got your back.

Now, let’s talk about some heavy hitters making waves in the virtual cosmos. Assassin’s Creed Nexus, Asgard’s Wrath 2, Stranger Things VR, and Lego Bricktales – these aren’t just games; they’re passports to realms that defy the very laws of reality. Pack your bags, because it looks like we won’t be leaving the digital realm anytime soon.

But wait, my fellow wanderers, let me shine a light on a gem that’s been polished to perfection on the Meta Quest 3 – The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners. If you thought the Meta Quest 2 was a visual feast, brace yourself for a banquet of undead proportions. Crisper details, character models that could give Hollywood a run for its money, and textures so high-res, you’ll want to touch them (but don’t,

because VR). And let’s not forget the frame rate – peppier than a squirrel on caffeine.

The pièce de résistance? The lighting. It’s not just lighting; it’s a damn symphony of shadows and illumination effects that make those rotting zombies look almost... beautiful. Almost. This isn’t your average stroll through the park; it’s a first-person action-adventure that will haunt your dreams. Visceral combat, scavenging for resources, and survival elements that’ll make Bear Grylls blush – this game is like a rollercoaster of adrenaline, and the console-like presentation ensures you’ll be donning that headset until the dawn breaks.

So, my friends, whether you’re a seasoned traveler in the virtual realms or a newbie looking to dip your toes into the mind-bending waters, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners on Meta Quest 3 is your golden ticket. Strap in, hold on tight, and prepare to lose yourself in a world where reality is just a distant memory.

wITH eddIe THe game guru waTcH THe TraIler Here!

SP or T

Pembrokeshire League Division One weekend preview

AFTER an extremely wet December and festive period, pitches around the county will be grateful for a bit of respite, however it’s likely some games will be cancelled this coming weekend due to saturated ground. However the forecast is improving and we hope for a full complement of fixtures, as there are some very important games scheduled up and down the county.

Fishguard sports v Merlins bridge

As we heard from Fishguard boss Phil Jones before Christmas, they are up for the fight and prepared to battle for every point. They need results and they need them fast, home form will be crucial in their fight for survival and they’ll be hoping to start the new year with a positive result. The visitors have had a fairly good season so far but will need to win every game if they have aspirations of being an outsider in the title race.

Goodwick United v Tenby

Goodwick have had to wait to bounce back from their first loss in what

feels like forever in the FAW Amauter Trophy. They will be chomping at the bit to make a statement and to get back to winning ways. Tenby however will provide a good test if the best version of Tenby turns up, they’ve struggled with consistency so far this

Hakin United v Clarbeston Road

The Vikings will be keen to keep up the pressure on Goodwick at the top of the table when they host Matthew Fox’s Clarbeston Road. Clarby beat Hakin in the senior cup and will take confidence from this, another win here would

add to what’s been an impressive season for Clarby so far.

Monkton Swifts v Milford United

Monkton Swifts host one of the most impressive teams in the first division this season in the form of Steve Parks’ Milford

United. They find themselves two points behind the Swifts and have played two fewer games, an impressive season for the newly promoted men from Marble Hall. Relegation doesn’t seem to be a realistic threat for either of these clubs but they’ll both be looking to finish as high as possible and do some damage in cup competitions.

Pennar Robins v Neyland

Carl Vincent’s Pennar Robins came out 6-2 victors in the reverse of this fixture back in December a repeat of this result would be huge for the hosts. From what they’ve shown before Christmas they have far too much quality to be relegated and a few wins will see them comfortably in mid-table. Neyland sit on 12 points the same as the hosts and will be aiming to build on their win last time out against Tenby.

Hopefully the weather is kind to us and we get a lot of exciting football played in the county this coming weekend. Good luck to all involved.

Triumph for Teifi Valley Motor Club in grueling Roger Albert Clarke rally

IN A DISPLAY of unwavering determination and skill, members of the Teifi Valley Motor Club (TVMC) have left an indelible mark on the recently concluded Roger Albert Clarke Historic Rally, touted as ‘Britain’s most challenging rally.’ The 2023 edition, spanning 350 special stage miles across Wales, England, and Scotland, proved to be the largest and toughest in the event’s storied history. TVMC stole the spotlight, with driver Dyfrig James and codriver Emyr Jones securing an impressive fourth position overall, accompanied by a welldeserved first in their class award. The duo, with a rally partnership spanning over two decades, showcased their mettle in the face of stiff competition, leaving their mark in a field of world-class teams and drivers.

saying, “A top twenty would have been a great result for us as a team of friends, but what we managed to achieve together was unbelievable.” The 39mile stage to the finish, the longest gravel stage in the UK in over 40 years, added an extra layer of challenge, making their triumph even more remarkable.

For Dyfrig, the rally

who participated in the 1970 World Cup Rally from London to Mexico. Washington’s stories fueled Dyfrig’s childhood dreams, and now, he shares the same passion with his own children.

“My great uncle competed against works teams and drivers from across the globe and finished in 15th position overall with a team of friends in a car prepped

Albert Clark Rally offers to follow in his great uncle’s footsteps.

Other TVMC members also made their mark in the competition. Geraint Davies and Eurig James secured an impressive 15th position overall, while Aled Richards and Lyn Davies claimed 78th overall and 21st in class. Gwynfor Jones and Adrian Young emerged victorious in class D3, securing 25th place overall. Mike Roberts and Ken Bowman showcased their prowess with a commendable 4th in class and 48th overall.

TVMC Chairman Peter Lewis conveyed his pride in the achievements of the club members, applauding their resilience and success in one of Great Britain’s most iconic rallies. Looking forward, Dyfrig James expressed his desire for continued support in 2025, eager to relive the thrill and strive for an even better result.

Emyr Jones, the codriver, described the rally as overwhelming, citing immense crowd support and kindness from enthusiasts. He urged others to experience the thrill if given the chance. Both Dyfrig and Emyr expressed gratitude to friends, family, and sponsors for their unwavering support throughout the challenging rally.

manderwood PembrokeSHIre league

6th January

DIVISION

Pembroke Boro II v Johnston II

II

The countdown begins...

Wales’ skipper could be out for Six Nations

IN A SETBACK for Wales ahead of the 2024 Six Nations, captain Jac Morgan faces uncertainty about his participation after undergoing knee surgery.

This comes on the heels of a previous setback, where he had shoulder surgery. The news has left head coach Warren Gatland with selection challenges as his side prepares to kick off the campaign against Scotland on February 3.

Morgan’s absence is not only a blow for the national team but also for his club side Ospreys, where he is expected to be sidelined for “months not weeks,” according to head coach Toby Booth. Despite the challenges, Booth expressed confidence in Morgan’s resilience, stating, “He is a young man who heals quickly,” and emphasised the necessity of the operation.

The Welsh side will have to navigate the Six Nations without their skipper, concluding the tournament against Italy on March 16. Gatland faces additional selection headaches with the absence of Christ Tshiunza, who is recovering from a broken foot, and Taine Plumtree, likely to miss the Scotland opener due to a shoulder issue. Nicky Smith, a teammate of Morgan at Ospreys, will also be absent for the next few weeks due to a shoulder problem.

The leadership vacuum left by Morgan’s absence has prompted speculation about who will take the captain’s armband. Dewi Lake, Adam Beard, and Will Rowlands are all being considered for the role, adding to Gatland’s strategic challenges.

Despite these setbacks, there is a silver lining for Gatland in the positive news regarding Taulupe Faletau. The Cardiff player, recovering from a broken arm, is on track for a return next month. Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt provided reassurance, stating, “He’s fine,” and highlighted Faletau’s progress in his recovery. While there’s no confirmed return date, Sherratt affirmed that Faletau is content with his progress and has already begun running to gradually increase his workload.

As Wales braces for the Six Nations, Gatland remains optimistic about the challenges ahead, navigating injuries and reshuffling his squad to deliver a strong performance in the tournament. The absence of their captain adds an additional layer of complexity, but with experienced players and a positive outlook on Faletau’s return, Wales aims to overcome these hurdles and make a mark in the 2024 Six Nations.

Feyi-Waboso’s international future shrouded in mystery

CARDIFF-BORN rugby sensation

Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has once again left fans guessing about his international future.

Despite clarifying in November that neither Wales nor England had contacted him ahead of the 2024 Guinness Six Nations, the 21-yearold winger remained elusive during a recent post-match interview.

Welsh TNT Sports reporter Sara Elgan revisited the topic, asking Feyi-Waboso if anything had changed in the past four weeks. With a mysterious smile, he responded,

“Umm,” and laughed, avoiding a direct answer.

Elgan, picking up on the subtle hints, highlighted the Welsh accent and cheekily stated her case for Wales. Feyi-Waboso, maintaining his silence, left the speculation hanging, saying, “You put your case forward; I have nothing to say on it,” accompanied by a playful grin.

Teammate Joe Hawkins added to the intrigue by quoting the interview with three Welsh flags. The anticipation now builds as Warren Gatland prepares to name his Six Nations squad in a few weeks.

Feyi-Waboso’s journey from leaving Cardiff Rugby in 2021 to becoming a standout player for Exeter Chiefs adds another layer of fascination to the upcoming tournament. As rugby enthusiasts eagerly await Gatland’s squad announcement, Feyi-Waboso’s undecided international allegiance only heightens the excitement for the Six Nations.

As it stands...

As winter tightens its grip, rugby enthusiasts across the British Isles are gearing up for the pinnacle of the rugby calendar - the 2024 Six Nations. From the lively pubs of Dublin to the picturesque Welsh valleys, anticipation is reaching fever pitch for what promises to be an exhilarating tournament.

The excitement kicks off on February 2nd, 2024, with a clash between titans, France and Ireland, setting the stage for a thrilling curtainraiser. The fixture is scheduled for 8:00 PM, a date and time now etched in the calendars of fans eagerly awaiting the clash.

But the action doesn’t stop there. The following day sees England crossing the Channel to face Italy in Rome, while Wales plays host to Scotland in Cardiff. As the rugby world braces for this spectacle, the burning questions on everyone’s lips are: Who will claim the coveted top spot, and who’s destined for the Wooden Spoon?

The bookmakers have weighed in, offering the latest odds (*correct as of December 14th, 2023):

France: 6/5 • Ireland: 6/4 • England: 11/2

Scotland: 14/1 8 Wales: 25/1 • Italy: 500/1

The odds reflect a nail-bitingly close competition between France and Ireland, setting the stage for a potential Grand Slam decider in their opening clash. The victor on February 2nd is likely to ride a wave of confidence through the tournament, aiming to overcome the disappointments of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

France and Ireland, rugby powerhouses in recent years, both stumbled at the quarter-final hurdle in the previous World Cup. Now, with squad retirements and the sting of past defeats, they face an uphill battle to emerge triumphant in the Six Nations.

England and Wales, traditionally considered contenders, are grappling with long odds this year. England, despite being the only Six Nations team to reach the World Cup semi-finals, still have work to do, and Wales fell short at the quarter-final stage in the same tournament. Fans contemplating a bet might want to exercise caution.

However, the stage is set for a potential dark horse emergence - Scotland. Their strong August 2023 performance, including a decisive victory against Georgia and competitive clashes with France, positions them as genuine contenders. Despite their World Cup exit in the group stages, Scotland’s fighting spirit and tactical prowess make them a team to watch.

While topping the table may seem a stretch, a second-place finish would be a monumental achievement for the Scottish squad. As the Six Nations unfolds, fans are sure to witness thrills, spills, and, ultimately, the crowning of the 2024 champion.