A RISE in solar crime should act as a call to action for ecoconscious homeowners to check their security and insurance, an expert has warned.
Freddie HamiltonRussell, of rural insurance broker, Lycetts, issued the advice after police figures revealed a 48 per cent rise in solar panel and cabling theft from 2021 to 2022.
“Thefts are not limited to large-scale and commercial solar farms,” he said.
panels are often easier and quicker to steal, and can be easily advertised online and sold on the black market.”
campaigners continue to vehemently call for bolstered safety implementations at the notoriously hazardous Nash Fingerpost Junction. Despite new road markings, residents and activists stress that further steps are imperative to avoid future tragedies.
The roadway now features distinctive, bright red tarmac areas and enforces an explicit ‘ARAF SLOW’ message to approaching drivers, especially visible on the main trunk road. These developments follow a string of fatal accidents, with Ashley Rogers from Kilgetty being the most recent victim on May 13th of this year, escalating the demand for more comprehensive safety strategies at the junction.
The South Wales Trunk Road Agency, in their recent efforts,
have refreshed all road markings at the contentious spot. Notwithstanding, the third fatality in a dozen years has inevitably sparked renewed and fervent appeals for superior precautionary methods.
Yvette WeblinGrimsley, a staunch safety campaigner and family friend of Ms. Rogers, has been at the forefront of these appeals. A petition she led, advocating for the deployment of thorough safety measures at the Fingerpost Junction, garnered over 10,000 signatures within a mere month following Ashley’s untimely death.
While she acknowledges the recent measures as “a step in the right direction,” Yvette continues to express that the overwhelming
need for a roundabout remains unmet. She remains hopeful that the substantial support demonstrated by the rapid collection of signatures will propel discussions about the Fingerpost Junction into debates at the Senedd this autumn.
Yvette told The Herald: “The Nash Fingerpost is not just a local concern. It is a vital junction for power station traffic, oil tankers for the refinery, military convoys for Castlemartin Range, and soon, it will cater to increased traffic due to the forthcoming visitor centre in Pembroke.”
While expressing gratitude towards authorities and politicians who have engaged in discussions about the junction, Yvette additionally thanked Phil McFadden of the Motorcycle Action Group for his crucial video documentation of
the junction. This visual evidence alongside road monitoring reveals a prevalent confusion regarding right-of-way procedures, particularly for traffic traversing from Pembroke Dock towards Pembroke.
Furthermore, Yvette emphasised the importance of incorporating ‘Think Bike Look Twice’ signs, not only at the Fingerpost Junction but across the entirety of Wales, enhancing alertness towards motorcycle users amongst other motorists.
Heartbreakingly, Yvette reflected on the profound anguish and heartache experienced by all those affected by the horrific accident on May 13. “The pain and devastation...is beyond comprehension,” she said. “I just hope something will be done to try to ensure this never happens again.”
“Increased energy prices, the ‘cost of living’ crisis, and the fact that properties with solar panels attract ecoconscious buyers, have contributed to a growth in residential solar panel installations.”
Homeowners typically install between 10 and 15 panels, with a value of around £7,000. With more than 1.4 million solar panels already in domestic properties – a figure that is expected to rise – criminals have realised a lucrative opportunity.
Hamilton-Russell said: “Although copper cabling in the stolen panels can make money for thieves,
He has recommended a number of measures that could help deter potential thieves. These included CCTV cameras, security marking, alarms, security lighting, security fencing, and anti-climb barriers. Remote properties in rural areas are particularly vulnerable, especially to opportunistic thieves. Domestic installations of solar panels are usually considered as ‘permanent home fixtures’ by insurance companies, provided they are located on rooftops, and not on the ground.
Hamilton-Russell said: “Ensuring you have adequate cover on your existing home insurance policy to cover the cost of replacements should not result in any significant increases for premiums. However, it is important to seek expert advice from an experienced insurer.”
concerns.
When we arrived at the scene, we asked the gathered crowd why they would feel the need to protest, we were told bluntly: “Because he’s a paedophile!”
“We all know he was in the paper for what he did, we know he’s come out for what he did.
“We all know he’s a wrong one. And at the end of the day we don’t think it’s right that he lives around here amongst the community where there are kids.”
teenager to engage in sexual activity back in 2017, has recently been released into the community after being imprisoned for sexual communication with a child and assault.
He was quickly joined by officers from Dyfed-Powys Police who secured the property in order to prevent protestors from accessing his home.
Around ten police officers were at the scene.
PROTESTORS gathered on Tuesday night (Oct 4) outside a private residence in Lower Priory that belongs to convicted sex offender, James Robert Kershaw.
A crowd of 25 local people chanted, banged
drums and used a megaphone to demand the removal of Mr Kershaw from the community, citing fears for local children as the main reason for their
Kershaw, now 42, travelled to Carmarthen Railway Station on September 2, 2021 to meet what he believed was an underage girl for sex, Kershaw was in fact met by selfproclaimed ‘paedophile hunters’ who confronted him, he injured one of these individuals with his vehicle as he attempted to flee the scene.
Kershaw, who was cleared of inciting a
The police have been asked for a comment.
After the protest Mr Kershaw contacted The Pembrokeshire Herald saying: “I am innocent of the offence, and was put in jail wrongly. This case will be going to the Court of Appeal, where I will clear my name.
“I do not wish to leave my home as I feel that I have done nothing wrong, I am the victim of a miscarriage of justice.”
A ONE PLANET development in north Pembrokeshire –prepared with ‘military precision’ was given the final sign-off recently.
County planners, at their May meeting, unanimously backed a scheme by Simon Hillam – a former British Army warrant officer – and nurse Clare Gray for a One Planet Development on three fields at Y Gaer Pencraig, Llangolman.
One Planet Developments allow people to live off the land in the open countryside in a self-sufficient and eco-friendly way.
The application
included a residential unit, yurt, produce shed, solar shed, goat shed, toilet, shower unit, storage containers and polytunnel, and the creation of ponds.
Planners heard the couple already ran a successful business from the site called ‘Blossoms and Berries,’ which specialises in producing high-quality flower bouquets and fruit for sale at local farmers’ markets.
At that meeting, Councillor Rhys Jordan praised the quality of the applicants’ presentation of the scheme, saying it was “really pleasing to see such attention to
detail,” describing the application as “effectively military precision in the way this has been carried out”.
The application was conditionally approved, with delegated power given to the Head of Planning to give the final thumbs-up, subject
to the resolution of conditions including the completion of a Section 106 agreement. At the October planning committee, chairman Cllr Jacob Williams informed fellow members delegated approval had now been given.
SEAN GOLDER, of The Pound in Pembroke Dock, has been sentenced to 19 months in prison today at Swansea Crown Court after being found guilty in a previous hearing of attempting to meet a child following grooming, arranging the commission of a child sexual offence, attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, and two counts of having a knife in a public place.
These charges relate to an incident that occurred on March 10 in the car park at Morrisons in Carmarthen. Golder, 54, was accused of having two knives – a folding pocket knife with a locking blade and a hunting knife
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email– in the public space and attempting to meet a child with malevolent intent.
In the trial in August, the prosecution presented evidence including
chat logs and witness testimonies to substantiate the allegations against Mr. Golder. The defence contested the charges, suggesting there was insufficient evidence to confirm intent.
At Friday’s sentencing
ON WEDNESDAY, a kayaker stranded on rocks was saved by a coasteering team from a nearby holiday resort.
hearing (Sept 29), the judge commented on the severity and precarious nature of the actions taken by Mr. Golder, emphasising the necessity for a custodial sentence to act as both a punitive and deterrent measure.
A CALL to extend the catchment areas for two mid-Pembrokeshire Welsh Medium schools has been backed by senior councillors.
Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, at its October 2 meeting, was asked to approve extensions to the catchment areas of Llandissilio’s Welsh Medium Ysgol Brynconin and Welsh Medium Ysgol Maenclochog.
In 2020, Ysgol Brynconin joined in a formal federation with Ysgol Maenclochog and a single senior management team and governing body oversees both schools.
Ysgol Brynconin’s current catchment overlaps a number of electoral wards, Maenclochog, Narberth Rural, Lampeter Velfrey, Martletwy and Wiston, similarly Maenclochog, Wiston, Crymych and Mynachlog-Ddu, Bro Gwaun, Martletwy, Cilgerran and Eglwyswrw for Ysgol Maenclochog.
It was proposed, from September 2024, the catchment area for Ysgol Brynconin is extended westwards into the St Aidans Church in Wales VA School catchment area, and south and eastwards into the Tavernspite Community Primary
School catchment area, with Ysgol Maenclochog extended south and westwards into the St Aidans Church in Wales VA School catchment area.
A consultation on the proposal to extend the catchment area for the two schools was undertaken in June and July.
Pupils living within the new catchment areas of Ysgol Brynconin and Ysgol Maenclochog and more than two miles away from the school, will be entitled to free school transport, estimated at £1,750 per pupil.
A report for members stated: “Given the school’s capacity, current and forecast numbers on roll, and the likely extent of yield from current and planned housing developments, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that extending
the catchment area can be comfortably accommodated at both Ysgol Brynconin and Ysgol Maenclochog.
“On the basis of an analysis of parental preference in the area, there is already evidence of pupils from the St Aidan’s CiW VC School and Tavernspite Community School catchment areas attending Ysgol Brynconin [and pupils from the St Aidan’s catchment area attending Ysgol Maenclochog]; extending the catchment area will therefore merely formalise access to the school in the future.”
The catchment areas for St Aidan’s and Tavernspite schools will remain unchanged for English medium primary education provision.
Cabinet members unanimously approved the proposed changes,
Responding to reports of a kayaker on the rocks at Carreg Thomas, near the old fort in Fishguard, at approximately 12:49 on Tuesday, October 4, the Fishguard and Goodwick inshore lifeboat, along with the local coast guard team, were dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, they found that the individual had already been rescued by a training coasteering group from Bluestone Resort. The coastguard team conducted a casualty assessment and subsequently transported the kayaker back to his vehicle in Goodwick.
The inflatable
kayak was retrieved by the Fishguard and Goodwick inshore lifeboat crew and returned to the lifeboat station for the kayaker to retrieve later.
A spokesperson from HM Coastguard Fishguard expressed their gratitude, stating, “Many thanks to the team from Bluestone for their help.
PLANS by housing association group
Ateb to move to Haverfordwest’s former library are expected to be approved despite concerns about a potential loss of parking and the relocation of an important piece of artwork.
The former library building in the town’s Dew Street has not been used since 2012, a replacement library is now sited at the former riverside market.
In an application before the October meeting of Pembrokeshire County council’s planning committee, W Lloyd Davies of Ateb Group seeks permission for a change of use of the 1960s building – designed by Pembrokeshire County Architect Gilbert Ray – to provide office accommodation, a communal cafe and
Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporterancillary community uses.
The application, which includes lettable office space, conference facilities and meeting rooms, is recommended for approval.
If permission is granted, Ateb plans to relocate the company’s headquarters from its current premises at Meyler House, St Thomas’ Green, Haverfordwest.
A report for planners says the applicant owns and controls an existing car park nearby with an indicated capacity of 126 spaces, the former library and Dew Street public car parks which are now operated as ‘pay & display’ parking.
Haverfordwest Town Council and residents have expressed concerns about the impact of development on existing parking
provision.
The Dew Street Campaign, a local residents group, has submitted representations calculating a ‘worst case’ scenario suggesting that 70 parking spaces would be required to serve the development. The group has also suggested that there is potential for loss of the car parking provision to any housing development
as it is controlled by the applicant.
The Head of Infrastructure –Highways indicates that it is likely that there is sufficient parking adjacent to the site to accommodate all of the proposed uses, the report says.
However, it is recommended that 27 spaces in addition to five proposed in the application are secured in a suitable layout to
serve the development.
It is also recommended that efforts should be made to encourage active and sustainable travel modes to and from the proposed development in order to minimise the amount of personal vehicle use.
“The concerns of the Dew Street Campaign vis-à-vis potential housing development on the existing car parks is noted,” the report
states.
“However, there are presently no applications for such development and in any event, the loss of available car parking provision would be a material consideration in the determination of any application should an application come forward.”
Another concern raised about the development is cultural. The library building features a first-floor sculpture by David Tinker, an important and influential modernist sculptor and painter, designed to capture the light falling on the building, but it is proposed to move it where it will be less apparent to the public. Officers are recommending a condition that requires a detailed method statement for the relocation of the Tinker sculpture.
THE INDEPENDENT
‘lessons learnt’ review into the Church of England’s handling of allegations against the late Revd. Trevor Devamanikkam has been published.
Trevor Devamanikkam was due to appear in court in June 2017, charged with six counts of sexual abuse in the 1980s, against a 16-year-old. However, he did not arrive for the hearing and was found dead at his home later that day. An inquest found that he had died by suicide. In 2012 and 2013, the survivor, himself a member of clergy at the time, alleged he made a number of disclosures of non-recent abuse to senior clergy, and they failed to act on them.
The review was commissioned by the National Safeguarding Team, NST, and carried out by Jane Humphreys, a Senior Social Care Consultant, and previous Director of Children’s and Adult’s Services with a career spanning more than 30 years.
Its purpose is to identify both good practice and failings in the Church of England’s handling of the allegations, including its safeguarding practice, in order that the Church can take steps to enhance and improve its response to allegations of abuse and thereby ensure a safer environment for all.
The reviewer concludes that, although Trevor Devamanikkam, who worked as a priest in Pembrokeshire in the 1980’s, was not convicted of the offences against him, the survivor was sexually abused by him. She makes a number of recommendations for the Church including about lessons learnt reviews
and responding well to survivors; as well as the need for clear guidance to all clergy and Church officers as to what they should do and who they should take advice from if copied into an allegation of abuse.
She also addresses and outlines the survivor’s request not to engage with the Review, noting that she has drawn on his written experiences and accounts of events from his submission to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) in July 2019, and from other documents.
Statement from independent reviewer Jane Humphreys: “This Learning Lessons review has taken far too long
to complete and is well overdue. Whilst I respect the wishes of the survivor not to be involved in the review, I hope the findings and recommendations in my report give him some assurances that the abuse he suffered and the lack of support he received from the Church have now finally been recognised. It takes a lot of courage to disclose abuse and to not receive the right support and guidance at the time he disclosed his abuse is inexcusable, I hope he is now provided with the right support to rebuild his life. Sadly, this report would not have been required had the policies and guidance in place at the time the survivor disclosed his abuse been followed. They were not, even though the disclosures were made only a decade ago at a time where the
profile of safeguarding and protecting children and vulnerable adults was well publicised. This report also recognises that the late Trevor Devamanikkam had a significant history of mental illness and had been involved with a number of statutory agencies when he was subject to the police investigation. I have asked the Oxfordshire Safeguarding Adult Board to consider whether a safeguarding adult review should be undertaken to consider whether agencies involved with him, and the church could have worked together more effectively at that time.”
Statement from lead safeguarding bishop, Joanne Grenfell: “The Church should be ashamed that a
with other documents, helped her reach her conclusions. His voice remains important, as do the voices of all survivors, which must continue to inform our work.
We need to ensure that harm is prevented, wrongdoing reported, and victims and survivors heard. As well as better policies and practice, this will mean every member of the Church contributing to a healthier culture with vigilance, competence, and care.”
the Church and abused by someone in a position of trust. We are truly sorry for the abuse he suffered and for our failure to respond well.
It is important that we now learn from this review. We thank Jane Humphreys for her work and welcome her recommendations, which will now go to the National Safeguarding Steering Group, including her comments about the length of time it took to commence and complete. Our response was not good enough and a new policy going to Synod this July about safeguarding practice reviews should help improve the process.
We respect the survivor’s decision not to take part. As the reviewer states, the survivor’s
The Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell has also welcomed the report and has given his commitment that the Church of England will learn from the recommendations to ensure the Church is a safer place for all. “I would like to echo Bishop Joanne’s response and have made personal contact with the survivor. While safeguarding in the Church has improved enormously in the past 10 years, we can never be complacent and today’s report is a reminder that we still need to learn from how to respond well to those who come forward always being mindful that the effects of abuse are lifelong.”
Following the release of the report today, the current Bishop of Sheffield, the Rt Revd Dr Pete Wilcox commented “It is important to have independent scrutiny of our safeguarding processes and practices, so I warmly welcome the report released today. I do also respect the wishes of the survivor not to engage with the investigation. However, it is right that we seek to ensure our work is thoroughly monitored as we seek to
THE EXTENT of problems with crumbling concrete at Withybush means a return to normality at the hospital is a long way off.
The Herald can reveal that in the hospital’s worstaffected areas, up to 15% of the concrete installed when the hospital was built is in critical condition.
In Ward Nine, 72% of roof planks were in amber condition and needed remedial works to secure the area.
As inspections continue over the coming months, the situation could worsen, as existing concrete could deteriorate suddenly.
Ward Ten, the Cancer Unit refitted at great expense following years of fundraising by local charities, will remain closed until next year. The news comes as a blow to fundraisers who ploughed hours of effort and hundreds of thousands of pounds into securing the Unit’s future.
We asked how the Board missed any problems with the fabric of the building when it carried out extensive work on the hospital’s second floor only a few years ago.
The Board’s answer indicated it didn’t notice because it hadn’t looked.
“We have followed all guidance and advice and consulted with expert engineers at every stage,” a spokesperson told us.
“The Welsh Government first asked us to identify if RAAC was present in late 2019. We completed the initial survey in the Spring of 2020.
“Subsequent advice was issued by the Welsh Government in late 2022 as the understanding of the risks posed by RAAC changed, and we immediately commissioned extensive survey work. This began on-site in May 2023, and our expert surveyors and engineers identified a number of critical RAAC planks.
“As soon as the extent of the challenge was understood we declared the Internal Major Incident on August 15, 2023.”
We can confirm issues with RAAC and its limited lifespan have been known for decades.
By the mid-1980s, engineers knew that, with an estimated 30-year lifespan, failures among RAAC roof panels were inevitable.
Some panels were too thin for the distance they were used to span. Some lacked enough steel to anchor them to vertical structures, and leaky roofs triggered steel corrosion.
In 1996, the Building Research Establishment warned that RAAC roof planks installed before 1980 were subject to “excessive deflections and cracking”. A subsequent paper in 1999 warned about Raac in schools. In 2002, BRE repeated its six-year-old warning.
After a sudden ceiling collapse at a school, England’s Department for Education advised
schools to check their ceilings and roofs as their collapse was unpredictable and could be sudden. At the start of the following year, the MoD issued its own warning after a collapse on MoD premises. In May 2019, the UK’s Standing Committee on Structural Safety sounded the alarm for public buildings, including schools and hospitals.
At that time, Professor Chris Goodier, a Materials Scientist from Loughborough University, said: “It is RAAC from the 1950s, 60s and 70s that is of main concern, especially if it has not been adequately maintained.
“RAAC examples have been found with bearings (supports) that aren’t big enough and RAAC with the steel reinforcement in the wrong place, which can have structural implications.
“Prolonged water ingress (not uncommon on old flat roofs) can also lead to deterioration.”
At Withybush, water ingress through the roof was a long-standing and well-known problem by at least 1987.
Keith Jones, Director
of Secondary Care for Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “Repair work in wards 7, 9, and 12 is expected to be completed by late December 2023.
“We anticipate that Ward 9, the first of the repaired wards, will be ready for reoccupation by patients from mid-October onwards.
“The scheduling of priority repair works throughout the hospital is a complex undertaking and the repair of the highest risk affected RAAC planks is not expected to be completed until Spring 2024.”
The work is part of a £137m maintenance backlog across the Board’s freehold estate. Within it, £12.9m is included to address RAAC-related structural repairs at Withybush Hospital and a further £3.323m to address the main hospital roof and prioritised flat roof areas.
That £16.3m deals with only part of the maintenance backlog at the Haverfordwest hospital.
While the Board commits £16.3m to repairs related to problems with
Withybush’s crumbling structure, we asked it what the core building’s condition might mean for Withybush’s future viability as a clinical centre.
The Board’s response will set alarm bells ringing in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire about its plans.
A Board spokesperson told us: “We will continue to monitor the remaining RAAC panels on a six and 12-monthly schedule for the remaining life of the building.
“Our Strategy, A Healthier Mid and West Wales: Future Generational Living Well, makes it clear that both Withybush and Glangwili Hospitals are ageing and makes the case for a new urgent and planned care hospital for the south of the health board area. We are working on this proposal, and the Welsh Government is considering the Programme Business Case.”
While it is undoubtedly true that parts of Glangwili and Withybush are beyond the end of their operational lives, the Board has never spelt out
such a bleak assessment of their futures before.
The cost of repairing - almost certainly replacing - Withybush’s core structure will be prohibitive. Doing so while the core of the older hospital buildings remains operational will be even costlier. That is simply stating the obvious and devoid of any other agenda.
The roof structures at Withybush were extensively surveyed before the abolition of the old Pembrokeshire Health Authority in 1992. The Board knew - or should’ve known about RAAC’s limited lifecycle. The RAAC at Withybush was already on its risk register. However, not fronting up about Withybush’s core buildings’ condition is explicable in light of recent public sentiment that sees conspiracies to close Withybush everywhere.
The Board’s operational managers are not soothsayers. While problems with Withybush, which was poorly built to begin with, were known, nobody could’ve foreseen the extent of the current problems.
The profile of future services that safely could or should be provided at Withybush has never been more uncertain.
AERON CASTLE and Rosemary Penny faced numerous charges at Swansea Crown Court related to a series of offences committed across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion on August 27.
Castle admitted to stealing a Land Rover Defender from Beulah, and Penny to being an unauthorised passenger in the same vehicle.
Both also acknowledged stealing groceries from a Tesco store in Cardigan. An attempted theft of a Skoda taxi from Home James Taxis in Cardigan was admitted by Castle but denied by Penny. Further, they both pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicle
taking related to a Ford Focus, also owned by Home James Taxis, which was stolen from a garage on North Road after the keys were taken without permission.
Castle pleaded guilty to a dwelling burglary involving the theft of an iPad, two air rifles, a hunting knife, and a blanket from a property at Fachongle Isaf in Cilgwyn. However,
Penny pleaded not guilty to this charge. Additional charges related to dangerous driving on the A40 at Haverfordwest and Slebech were accepted by Castle. Both were charged with possessing a hunting knife and a lock knife in public when they were stopped at a garage on the A40 at Slebech; Castle pleaded guilty, Penny denied.
The prosecutor, Craig Jones, accepted the pleas, meaning the Crown will not seek a trial on the charges Penny denied. Castle also admitted to driving without insurance related to both the stolen Land Rover and Ford Focus.
Penny, 21, of Heol Y Felin, Penparc, Cardigan, also faced a separate charge of affray, related to an
incident in Aberystwyth on October 26 of the previous year.
Castle, 28, of Glannant, Llechryd, was granted bail, while Penny was remanded into custody. Both will be sentenced on Monday, October 23, following the preparation of a presentence report for each defendant ordered by Judge Paul Thomas.
BUSINESS leaders have hailed news that the North Wales main line is to be electrified as a “once-in-ageneration boost” for the region.
According to the North Wales Business Council, the electrified line would help provide faster, cleaner and more frequent train services.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester.
During his speech it was confirmed that the HS2 leg between Birmingham and Manchester was going to be scrapped after the costs spiralled and that the £36 billion saved from cancelling that section, would now all be used on other projects across the UK. The move received an angry reception from local political and business leaders in Manchester.
One of these alternative projects listed in the Prime Ministers’ speech was the electrification of the North Wales Mainline, which is believed to cost in the region of £1bn.
Clare Budden, Chair of the North Wales Business Council, said: “The axing of the HS2 leg to Manchester is
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailnot good news for such a pivotal piece of UK transport investment.’
“However we have been calling for many years for the full electrification of the North Wales Mainline and to finally have commitment for this is a real positive and making the best out of a bad situation.
“This is a muchneeded, oncein-a-generation investment in our railway infrastructure, supporting Net Zero and hopefully improved services for businesses, residents and visitors alike.
“This is a big deal but we need certainty it will be delivered in full and by when.”
Ashley Rogers, CEO of the Business Council said: “We welcome the news of this investment as an existing major ask for our region.
“With the exception of funding for the Wrexham to Bidston line, we presume that a lot of the already identified investment priorities in rail we have been campaigning for like improving line speeds and improving Chester station, would
happen as part of this full electrification project.”
“We do have to be cautious however, as the devil is in the detail. It would be good to have confirmation of when funding will start to flow and in which years will we see spades in the ground.
“Essential development funding for example is needed immediately to move the project forward. Our connectivity
into Manchester and Liverpool is also vital, so those areas also need support for funding for Northern Powerhouse Rail.”
The news was also welcomed by Jim Jones, the chief executive of North Wales Tourism.
He said: “Transport connectivity is incredibly important in terms of tourism and the flow of visitors in and out of North Wales, especially this link between London and Holyhead.
“News about electrification of the North Wales line is long overdue because this is a vitally important strategic route and tourism is central to the economic recovery here in North Wales.
“Let’s not lose the focus on today though. In recent years, there has been a serious decline in the quality of the train service linking North Wales and London and at one point the number of direct trains was slashed to just three a day.
“While things have improved, it’s still a poor imitation of the service we had before the pandemic.”
A statement from the government released today reads: “A total of
£36 billion in savings from HS2 will be reinvested in hundreds of transport projects across the country.
“The Network North plan will still see HS2 delivered between Birmingham and Euston in central London.
“But every penny that would have been spent extending the route will instead be redirected into local transport projects to drive economic growth and provide jobs.
“Network North will deliver greater connectivity across the country with faster journey times, increased capacity and more frequent, reliable services and connections will also be strengthened across the United Kingdom.
“An unprecedented £1 billion investment will bring parts of North Wales within an hour of Manchester through a major upgrade of the North Wales Main Line, including electrification.
“It will mean journeys will become more punctual and reliable on the 105-mile route between Crewe, Liverpool, Warrington, Wrexham, and Holyhead, where ferry services run to Dublin.
“The funding comes alongside £12 billion set aside for Northern Powerhouse Rail, allowing delivery of highspeed links between Manchester and Liverpool as previously planned.”
Reacting to yesterday’s Pembrokeshire MP and Welsh Affairs Committee chair, Rt Hon Stephen Crabb MP, told The Pembrokeshire Herald: “The Prime Minister’s announcement today of a £1 billion cash injection for the electrification of the North Wales Main Line is very welcome.
“Two years ago our Committee reported that experiences of passengers across Wales would be greatly improved by more investment in Welsh rail infrastructure, and that electrification would help meet our decarbonisation goals.
“It is critical that the UK and Welsh Governments work together on this important – and long overdue – project to electrify the North Wales Main Line. I look forward to hearing more from the Government on the timescale as to when work will begin and when the electrification of the line will be completed.”
spending, receives none. These disparities don’t only perpetuate infrastructural inequities but also starkly impede Wales’s ability to tackle pervasive issues like poverty and economic stagnation.
The current First Minister, Mark Drakeford, resists unequivocally labelling the decision as a mistake, citing the contextual challenges and limitations of the era. However, observers and experts like Professor Mark Barry perceive it differently, identifying it as a pivotal misstep with longstanding economic repercussions for Wales.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has promised the reinvestment of the £36bn from the cancelled HS2 phase into other transport projects. Yet, whether Wales will see a fair share of this investment, given the historic patterns of distribution, remains shrouded in skepticism.
IN THE AFTERMATH of the abrupt curtailment of the HS2’s northern extension, the deepseated implications of a near 20-year-old Welsh Government decision are brought into stark relief, casting a shadow over the nation’s infrastructure and economic outlook. The contentious HighSpeed 2 (HS2) rail project, now confined to a link between London and Birmingham, leaves Wales grappling with its rail underfunding while other UK nations reap financial compensations for the major English rail undertakings.
In the early 2000s, the then-Welsh Assembly Government made a crucial, seemingly pragmatic decision, opting out of devolving rail infrastructure spending to Cardiff Bay, a move some
now brand as the “biggest mistake” ever made by the Welsh Government. Wales receives no funding from the HS2’s staggering £44.6bn budget for the first phase, a sharp contrast to Scotland and Northern Ireland, who automatically get population-based shares of such expenditures in England.
So, what has led to this paradox where Wales watches billions being spent on connecting English metropolises while its own rail infrastructure groans under the weight of antiquated systems and a paucity of funding?
Three pivotal reasons guided the original decision of eschewing devolution of rail infrastructure spending: a lack of requisite expertise and capacity within the Welsh civil service; concern over the financial liability tied to
maintaining and upgrading the rail network; and the complications arising from the deeply intertwined nature of Welsh and English rail networks.
Andrew Davies, the former transport minister and decision-maker during that period, maintains that the decision was in essence, a cautious approach during a time of transformative change, though the fallout in 2023 starkly juxtaposes the deliberations of 2005.
It’s not only the first phase of the HS2 that is the matter in question; Wales will also be devoid of benefits from extensive English rail projects like the potential Northern Powerhouse Rail, further exacerbating the discrepancies in infrastructure investment across the UK nations.
To understand the depth of the issue, it’s
imperative to explore the financial trail left in the wake of substantial English rail projects. Scotland and Northern Ireland receive proportional funding, yet Wales, inherently bound to England in terms of rail
A complex, almost inscrutable funding system undergirds UK transport spending, and it’s this complexity that has shackled Wales to a future of perpetually lagging rail infrastructure, while other nations forge ahead on the back of substantial financial injections from Westminster.
Wales remains tethered to a perplexing funding infrastructure that constrains its economic and infrastructural development. The HS2 controversy has once more thrown the spotlight on the imbalances and inequalities embedded within the UK’s national rail funding structures. For Wales, the future of its rail network, economic development, and the very essence of its devolutionary powers, hang precariously in the balance, catalysing urgent reflection on equitable infrastructure investment across all UK nations.
ON TUESDAY (Oct 3), the volunteer crew launched into complete darkness at 8.57pm to a yacht that had issued a PAN-PAN distress call. With a force 6 south westerly wind, the charity’s lifeboat headed through the overfalls approximately 6.7 nautical miles north north east of St Davids Head, arriving on scene around half an hour later.
The coxswain assessed how well the yacht was proceeding under sail with the intention of escorting the casualty vessel to Fishguard harbour. However the yachts speed of less than two knots made steering a course difficult and uncomfortable for the yacht crew in the conditions. A tow was therefore deemed necessary.
The yacht was towed to Fishguard harbour and positioned against
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailthe harbour wall by Fishguard Lifeboat Station at approximately 00.15am. After a quick respite and refreshment from Fishguard RNLI crew, and with the casualty vessel now safe and alongside, St Davids volunteer crew returned to station and were ready for service by 1am.
Less than 24 hours later at 6.31pm, the charity’s lifeboat was tasked to a yacht with broken mast rigging 16 nautical miles north north west of St Davids Head. Sea conditions were moderate to rough and it took 45 minutes to reach the stricken vessel and fatigued crew. Once again the St Davids RNLI coxswain assessed the vessel which with a speed of two knots would have resulted in a 10 hour journey to the nearest safe haven 20 nautical miles away, a tow was
deemed necessary.
The tow was passed and once rigged the lifeboat and casualty proceeded at five to six knots over the ground. Approaching Fishguard, the tide fortunately turned, assisting progress of
the rescue. Once off the breakwater at Fishguard the yacht was escorted onto Fishguard RNLI’s casualty mooring, arriving around midnight. Again Fishguard RNLI kindly provided refreshments for the St Davids volunteers, after
which the crew returned to their home station, arriving and rehousing at around 1.40am.
Will Chant, RNLI
Coxswain for St Davids
RNLI lifeboat, said:
‘Our crews train and exercise towing techniques so it was
good to put that work into practice during these two shouts. On behalf of the crew I’d like to thank Fishguard RNLI for assisting shore side two nights running, and providing some much appreciated hot food and drink.
AN APPEAL has been launched in Cardigan to resurrect the parade (Heather Birnie)
In the run up to the winter festivities, plans to reinstate the parade on December 8 are afoot, with the launch of a new public fundraising appeal.
Revive Cardigan’s Giant Lantern Parade by supporting Small World Theatre and joining a local fundraising campaign that has the backing of Cardigan Town Council, Ceredigion County Council and Leafed Through community bookshop.
Cardigan-based Small World Theatre is renowned for its community work. Following a tradition that they began in 2016, Small World Theatre will create a new ‘Fanastical Beasts’ themed parade with giant illuminated
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emaillantern structures, and a fabulous array of handheld lanterns, free lantern making workshops for families, sessions with schools and other local community groups.
In its fourth year in 2019, the attraction brought 13,500 people to town to enjoy and take part in the festivities. This year, the team is determined to revive the parade and offer families the chance to be part of an inclusive, exciting event that brings people together.
The December parade drew thousands of people into Cardigan in 2019 (Heather Birnie) Marketing Manager Sam Vicary said: “In 2020 we launched our first Localgiving fundraiser to support working with families, providing creative
workshops and play for young people who were affected by the pandemic.
“Today we ask for your help with our second fundraiser so we can restore Cardigan’s spectacular Giant Lantern Parade to the town.”
Executive Director Ann Shrosbree added: “Sadly, our efforts to raise financial support through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund were unsuccessful. We’re working non-stop to find alternative funds. We’ve set a fundraising target of £2,000 for this campaign to cover the lantern materials, so that we can provide free lantern making workshops to Cardigan and the wider community. If we’re lucky enough to exceed this target, the funds will go towards the parade’s other costs.”
The organisers hope that this campaign is
an opportunity to bring the Lantern Parade into the forefront of people’s minds and establish a long-term plan for its continuation as a prominent event in the town’s annual events calendar, shining a light in the lengthening dark of mid-winter.
Artistic Director Bill
Hamblett said: “We are so grateful to those who can support by donating and helping with our fundraising appeal. Without you we will not be able to create this year’s proposed parade”.
To support the lantern parade with a donation, follow this link.
Your donation will cover your lantern making and contribute towards a non-paying participant who isn’t able to donate. To find out how you can get involved in fundraising/supporting the campaign, please contact Sam sam@ smallworld.org.uk / 01239 615 952.
A NEW Netflix documentary series, an episode of which is exploring the unlikely story of Broad Haven, retelling the stories of those who witnessed the unimaginable in the late Seventies.
But as the new series has been released, a new sign has appeared on the outskirts of the village warning road users of potential UFO’s.
Pembrokeshire County Council are confused. Their press office confirmed this week that the council ‘had not been approached for consent for temporary signage in this area.
It must be therefore, a UFO enthusiast, perhaps a villager who had the sign made and erected.
Encounters’, created by Steven Spielberg’s production company, follows a number of residents who, across a single year, made a number of UFO sightings.
They range from the weird to the downright absurd, and all came with the backdrop of the Cold War in 1977.
Distrust and paranoia between East and West was at its peak back then, and fantastical films like Star Wars and Close Encounters of the Third Kind — the latter
THE MIND takes you to some strange places.
There’s no rabbit hole into which mine cannot fall.
Suppose I start looking up old comic books on Wikipedia. Two hours later, I’ll find myself staring at a page about the displacement of populations in the Early Helladic period.
That’s the thing about semi-retirement. You often find yourself caught in the no-man’s land between work and leisure at the oddest times.
The other day, during a lull in the ceaseless crises in our democracy that fill every news channel and newspaper, I found myself in the unusual position of opening my work laptop at home and reviewing a tax return. This is almost unheard of at Casa Edwards, where my angelic beloved is very clear that work is for the workplace and not what she insists on calling “the sitting room”.
And that started me off again.
I mean, “sitting room”?!
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailmade by Spielberg — were hits with the public.
Back in the Seventies, the BBC sent camera crews to Broad Haven to quiz the locals on what exactly they had seen.
One child told the broadcaster at the time: “The spaceship looked
like a cigar shape with a dome on it with yellowy, orange to red light on the top of it.”
More eerily, another child said he didn’t see a spaceship but something perhaps more sinister: “I saw a man, but I couldn’t see its face because it was too far away.”
More than 45 years later, the 10-year-olds
who first reported the UFO sightings stand by their stories, slapping down any suggestion that their imaginations had got the better of them.
One, 57-year-old David Davies, said he was initially skeptical when his friends at school claimed to have spotted a spaceship in the village.
Do you know if there is a dedicated room for sitting? Are we allowed to sit nowhere else?
If not, I’m surely not alone in foreseeing appalling lavatorial consequences.
It’s like “the living room”, which invites the question about the location of “the dying room”.
My darling one stays tight-lipped when I ask her about that. The look she gives me when I say that sort of thing deters any further inquiry on my part. But the mind wanders, time passes, and I repeat my question to more exasperated and threatening eye rolls.
Anyway, there I was, laptop open and ready to strut my funky stuff on
capital asset depreciation, when I became aware I was being gazed at.
You know that bit in The War of The Worlds when we’re being studied by minds greater than ours? “As a man with a microscope might scrutinise the transient creatures that swarm and multiply in a drop of water.”
I had that feeling.
I looked out of the window. The Martian war machines were not striding across the horizon. Justin Hayward was not singing “Forever Autumn”. I sighed in relief, especially at the latter.
The end of humankind is one thing; winsome warbling is quite another.
The wife was out browsing charity shops for bargains.
I was quite alone in our home.
Nobody was about.
After a glance around, I opened my laptop again.
The feeling returned; an uneasy prickling sensation told me I was under keen observation.
I looked around again. There was a movement on the edge of my vision. I spun around, wondering where the nearest bell, book and candle were.
Then I saw it...
The bloody dog stared at me over the cushion she’d propped her head on while lying on the sofa. I swear the damned thing winked at me.
I closed the laptop, made myself a cup of tea, and put on the radio.
It was Justin Hayward singing “Forever Autumn”.
I think I heard a low canine snigger from the sofa.
It can’t be long now until the Martian war machines arrive. I now know what their occupants will look like, too.
NESTLED mere footsteps from the serene Freshwater Bay, an unassuming culinary marvel, ‘Jacks at the Longhouse’, burgeons in delightful obscurity. Established merely two years ago by the insightful Nigel and Carine Land, this quaint restaurant has unassumingly sequestered itself amongst the top 10% of TripAdvisor’s globally acclaimed eateries. But more than an impressive accolade, its tale is steeped in rich history and an enamouring connection with the local community.
In the idyllic realm of Freshwater East, where the gentle whispers of the ocean merge seamlessly with the verdant expanses, ‘Jacks at the Longhouse’ clandestinely cultivates an immersive dining spectacle. Named in honour of Jolly Jack
Furze, the notorious 19th-century smuggler who once veiled his illicit endeavours within the tranquil confines of Freshwater Bay, the restaurant gently nudges
at the romanticism of yesteryears with a dash of rebellious spirit.
Manager Jai Griffin, imbued with a tangible passion, shares, “This honour is monumental, not merely for our team but every individual involved, including the
locals who discovered us through serendipitous encounters.”
Intriguingly, despite its accolades and ethereal locale just 75 metres from the beach, a delightful discovery awaits even the locals, many of whom stumble upon its charm quite unexpectedly.
And once discovered, ‘Jacks’ engenders an enchanting magnetism, beckoning patrons to return with its exceptional food, meticulously curated ambience, and a palpably warm atmosphere. Whether it be the ‘Knit and Natter’ ladies crafting memories every Friday morning, the local church choir breathing melodies into its walls on Sunday evenings, or couples exchanging vows amidst its elegantly laidout first floor, the venue subtly intertwines itself into the warp and weft of communal life.
“Our endeavour was always to craft a venue where everyone, regardless of occasion, could saunter in and find a sliver of enjoyment, a momentary escape,” Jai reflects.
However, the accolades and burgeoning popularity among the community don’t divert from the establishment’s culinary prowess. ‘Jacks’ becomes a gastronomic
journey through seasons. Robust breakfasts befitting of ravenous sailors grace the summer menu, while autumn and winter invite a tantalising array of light lunches and exquisitely crafted evening meals – think fresh oysters, heartwarming homemade lasagnes, and burgers that redefine opulence.
With October unveiling an array of festivity, featuring an October Fest teeming with robust German beer and hearty German delicacies, as well as enchanting Halloween parties, a whimsical Santa’s grotto, and an electrifying lineup of live music events, ‘Jacks at the Longhouse’ is more than a restaurant – it is a vibrant tapestry of community, history, and exemplary culinary artistry.
It’s not merely the tantalising menus or the enveloping warmth of hospitality that distinguishes ‘Jacks’. Its essence lies in how it has seamlessly woven itself into the community’s fabric. Jai observes, “Local folks from Lamphey and beyond are beginning to utilise ‘Jacks at
the Longhouse’ as a communal nucleus. Be it ladies indulging in tea and homemade cake or choir singers rehearsing on Sundays, it’s this spontaneous integration that renders our space extraordinary.”
In the seemingly infinite stretches of nowhere, ‘Jacks at the Longhouse’ has not only discovered a spot in the esteemed top 10% of TripAdvisor restaurants worldwide but also nestled itself into the hearts of every visitor and local. The establishment stands as a testament to the marvellous occurrences when exemplary service, culinary expertise, and a genuine love for the community intertwine.
“And all of this,” Jai concludes, “is undeniably thanks to our fabulous patrons who relish in the ‘Jacks at the Longhouse’ experience as profoundly as we do.”
A journey to ‘Jacks at the Longhouse’ is not simply a dining excursion; it is a passage through a rich tapestry of community, history, and gastronomic adventure – a hidden gem where every visit feels like a serendipitous discovery.
IN 2007, Malcom Powell, a classic car enthusiast from Pembroke, and his team of marshals established what were to become popular Classic Car Shows in Pembrokeshire which takes in the beauty of both the vehicles and the undulating route that runs along the coast and mountains of North Pembrokeshire. Classic car enthusiasts from around Pembrokeshire meet regularly throughout the summer at various locations across the county and donate money to take part in events to raise funds for local charities such as The Paul Sartori Foundation. The spectacular display of classic cars from around the county attract locals and tourist alike to the muchanticipated shows.
Since 2013, Mal, a Voting Member of the Paul Sartori Foundation, has chosen the Hospice at Home Services as his
dedicated charity, which enables people living in the later stages of life to die at home with dignity, independence, and surrounded by those they hold most dear.
After the end-ofseason car run in September 2023, which lead the classic vehicles up towards the Preseli Hills, Phil Thompson MBE, Trustee of the Paul Sartori Foundation, and Val Harrold, a stalwart volunteer, received a cheque from Mal and his car enthusiast friends for an astonishing £2,235.00.
Phil explained ‘The support from Mal and team over the years has been outstanding, and as a Board member, fellow trustees and I see not only the unique care that the Charity provides daily but the financial challenges that arise each year. Without the support of events such as the Classic Car Run, sustaining the services would be impossible. Our heartfelt thanks go to Mal for all that he does.’
A BUS route in Pembrokeshire is to be affected by newlyannounced cuts in bus services across West Wales.
The frequency of the First Cymru 349 route will drop from an hourly service to every 90 minutes during the winter months (changes will take effect from 29th October onwards).
The route operates between Haverfordwest and Tenby via Johnston, Neyland, Pembroke Dock, Pembroke, Lamphey, Hodgeston, Jameston, Manorbier and Penally.
Councillor Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said the County Council would continue lobbying Welsh Government to increase funding for bus services.
“One of the most immediate concerns is the impact for Pembrokeshire people in accessing employment
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailopportunities,” he said.
“With reduced bus services many residents are facing substantial hurdles in getting to work and this situation threatens not only the financial stability of people and their families but the economic prosperity of the region as a whole.
“We accept these are difficult financial times but we strongly urge the Welsh Government to reconsider its funding decisions so public transportation here and across Wales can be accessible, reliable and viable.”
Concerns have risen recently that April 2024 could see many further reductions locally and across Wales as subsidies dry up.
Welsh Government’s Bus Emergency Scheme (BES) which supported the bus industry through
the Covid pandemic has now been replaced by the Bus Transition Fund (BTF) with its budget capped at £46m for the 2023/2024 financial
year.
The funding, with £4m of it dedicated to the Traws Cymru Network, is allocated directly to bus operators
across Wales’s 22 local authorities.
First Cymru says its reduced budget forced it to announce the cut to the 349 Pembrokeshire
service.
The new 349 timetable will be made available ahead of the changes on the First Cymru website.
can play a significant role in decarbonising public transport and the only emissions from this vehicle is water vapour”.
Pembrokeshire County Council’s Head of Infrastructure & Environment, Darren Thomas added: “The use of hydrogen is very much part of the council’s decarbonisation and renewable energy strategy.
“Given the major renewable energy and hydrogen projects that are underway in the region, hydrogen fuelled buses offer a practical solution for communities to decarbonise public transport and immediately improve air quality. These trials are great news as they could lead the way for cleaner public transport.”
Bus and coach operator Taf Valley Coaches, a familyowned and operated business based in Whitland, is trialling sustainable fuels and technologies to help decarbonise their operations.
As part of the Caetano bus trials, they will be getting feedback from the vehicle, the drivers and also the passengers to help inform future provision.
calling on the Welsh Government to protect and invest in bus services.
Jane Dodds MS has accused Labour Ministers of stringing bus services along and being too slow to act on its long-awaited reform of bus services. In the debate, Jane will highlight the huge benefit that public transport has to local economies, with 63% of small and medium-sized businesses stating that their business is directly affected by public transport.
Commenting, Jane Dodds MS said:
“For months, Welsh Government have strung communities and bus operators along with last-minute and shortterm announcements around the funding of bus services. What’s more, the long-awaited reforms to bus services still look no closer to being delivered.
“Over recent weeks and months, vital services like the Fflecsi Bwcabus in rural areas has been axed, and more than 10% of bus services have seen major revisions, with huge ramifications for our communities.
AN FUTURISTIC demonstration of green, zero-emission public transport is underway in west Wales using a hydrogen fuelled bus between Haverfordwest and Carmarthen.
The trial on the 322 bus route began on Tuesday 26th September and runs on selected days until Monday 9th October 2023.
The bus is being operated with the support of Pembrokeshire
and Carmarthenshire County Councils, bus operator Taf Valley Coaches and private hire operator Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions.
The bus is fuelled by locally produced electrolytic green hydrogen – made from renewable electricity and water – supplied by Protium from their installation at the University of South Wales Hydrogen Centre in Baglan.
The H2 City Gold electric bus is provided by Caetano Bus UK with the HyQube hydrogen refueller provided by Fuel Cell Systems Ltd.
The bus has an equivalent range to that of a conventional diesel vehicle and takes a similar time to refuel. It uses a refuelling point similar to the garage forecourt that we are all familiar with.
The 322 service was chosen to see how the bus performs on a longer route with long hills, which can be a
challenge for battery powered buses.
Cllr Paul Miller, PCC Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change, said: “Following our successful trial of hydrogen fuel cell cars in the Milford Haven : Energy Kingdom (MH:EK) project we know that decarbonising public transport is key to achieving our individual and collective commitments for net zero carbon.
“We are pleased to host this trial. Hydrogen
Chris Foxall, Founder and CEO of Hyppo Hydrogen which is delivering hydrogen related services in Wales and has established the first private hire operator that runs fuel cell passenger cars, said: “The fuel cell is a Welsh invention and with the vast potential for additional renewables in counties like Pembrokeshire, it makes sense to produce and use hydrogen locally.
“There is already significant experience dealing with hydrogen safely in the region, and so I’m pleased that the council is supporting the roll out of hydrogen transport for the benefit of the community.”
Meanwhile, the Senedd will today (Oct 4) debate a motion
“Meanwhile the Conservatives in Westminster are toying with the idea of scrapping the Manchester leg of HS2 means that new services will come nowhere near Wales. Any notion of HS2 being of any benefit to Wales is an absolute joke.
“The Conservatives are running out of excuses to withhold £5bn in infrastructure spending for Wales and, by sitting on their hands, Labour Ministers are watching bus services fail. We deserve better.
“Communities and bus operators need urgent clarity about Welsh Government plans and a crystal clear timeline to deliver the changes and improvements we all want to see in our bus services.”
INTERNATIONAL art is returning to Milford Waterfront with the Waterfront Gallery’s Wales Contemporary / Cymru Gyfoes
international art competition this winter, with sponsorship from the Port of Milford Haven and from Valero. The exhibition at the Waterfront Gallery is free to visit and will be open from Saturday, 21st October to Wednesday, 20th December.
Almost 1400 entries from over 35 countries were received this year with a variety of 2D and 3D works in mediums including painting, sculpture, ceramic, textile, glass and more. A selection of 175 of the top entries of the competition will be on display at the Waterfront Gallery, with the opportunity to vote for your favourite in the ‘People’s Choice’ category, which will be announced on the 20th December.
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailDavid Randell, Director and Curator, of the Waterfront Gallery is pleased to announce that amongst the 175 artworks selected for the exhibition are pieces from Australia, Canada, China, Finland, France, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Netherlands, U.S.A., Uzbekistan, and of course, a great number from Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland – a truly international representation.
Natalie Hunt, Destination Manager for Milford Waterfront added:
“Culture is so important to us here at Milford Waterfront, and working with the Waterfront Gallery to help support international artists in this way is so fulfilling to us as a destination.
For visitors to be able to come and appreciate such fine art, and to get involved too with the people’s choice category
– it’s exactly the kind of place we want to be.”
This year’s judges for the other categories are Janette Kerr, who is celebrated for her paintings of the sea and
is a Royal Academy of Art RWA Academician, Ashley Hall, Professor of Design Innovation at the Royal College of Art in London and a visiting Professor at the Central
Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, and Mehdi Moazzen, international architect and creative.
Entry to the exhibition is free and the gallery is open to visit from 10.30
to 16.00 daily (except Sundays and Mondays).
For more information on visiting the exhibition and Milford Waterfront please visit www. milfordwaterfront.co.uk.
Local Senedd
Member Paul Davies has recently visited Bolton Hill Water Treatment Works to meet with Dwr Cymru and learn more about the process of treating water.
Mr Davies was shown around the site by Dwr Cymru representatives who explained each of the different stages in the treatment process from raw water abstraction to fully treated water for distribution to customers.
Mr Davies said, “I’m very grateful to the team at Dwr Cymru for taking the time to show me around the site and teaching me more about the treatment process.”
“Water quality is of the utmost importance to us all and it was great to get a better insight into exactly how it’s treated.”
“It was a really informative visit, and we had a really good discussion about a range of water quality and treatment issues following the site tour.”
TIME is running out for you to cast your vote to help a Haverfordwest project, which aims to improve the mental health of the people of West Wales by providing free support, win the coveted ‘UK Project of the Year’ trophy at the 2023 National Lottery Awards.
The annual National Lottery Awards celebrate the people and projects across the UK who do extraordinary things with the help of National Lottery funding.
Since voting for The National Lottery Project of the Year category opened on 11th September, thousands of votes have been cast from across the UK for the 17 finalists to help decide this year’s winner.
But with the 9th October deadline for voting fast approaching, a Pembrokeshire project is appealing for your support to help them get over the line.
Get The Boys A Lift (GTBAL) is a not-for-profit organisation launched by a group of friends which provides free mental health support to the people of Pembrokeshire while promoting open discussions about mental wellbeing. The project has gone from strength to strength since 2016, now offering a mix of in-person and online counselling services to anyone over 17.
The team run a clothing and coffee shop in Haverfordwest called ‘Our Place’, offering a unique café experience where visitors can chat to counsellors and make new friends.
The project’s drop-in service has provided around 500 people with free and easy support, without the challenge of extensive waiting lists.
The project’s online counselling service, which launched during
the pandemic, also gives clients the option to have sessions remotely.
With support from The National Lottery, the project was able to buy a coffee van in 2022, allowing representatives to travel further afield, not only raising funds to maintain the organisation’s services, but promoting its core message about the importance of openness around mental health.
GTBAL runs regular events across the region, including outreach in schools and workplaces
as well as community events. Its ‘Break the Stigma’ coffee van has been stationed at Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire across the summer, giving the team a chance to spread the GTBAL message to a wider audience, not only to local people, but the region’s many visitors. Profits from the project’s bespoke clothing range, which includes everything from hoodies to beach towels, go back into the team’s crucial work.
Greg Walters,
Director at GTBAL, said:
“It is a real honour to be nominated and to be part of this process. It feels really special to be recognised for the work we do at Get the Boys a Lift. Thanks the to support of our community we’ve been able to save a lot of lives. We hope that people will vote for us and we can continue to spread the word about the help we provide!”
At the end of the voting window, the finalist with the most votes will be crowned the National Lottery’s 2023 Project of
the Year.
The winning project will receive a £5,000 cash prize, along with an iconic National Lottery trophy to commemorate the achievement.
Jonathan Tuchner, from the National Lottery, said: “We’re so excited to have such an incredible list of contenders for the Project of the Year category at this year’s National Lottery Awards.
“It’s always an incredibly competitive category and this year is no different.
“Thanks to National Lottery players, more than £30 million goes to good causes across the country every week, making vital projects like these possible.
“So don’t forget to make your voice heard by voting for your Project of the Year in the National Lottery Awards – with your help, any of these projects could be a winner.”
To vote for Get The Boys A Lift, please go to lotterygoodcauses.org. uk/awards. Or simply use their specific hashtag on X (formerly known as Twitter) #NLAGTBAL . Voting runs until 12pm on 9th October.
For further information please contact The National Lottery Awards: Oswyn Hughes on 07976 324 179 or email oswyn.hughes@ lotterygoodcauses.org. uk
NARBERTH COMMUNITY LIBRARY
will re-open at its St James Street home on Saturday 7th October after the completion of emergency building work at the site.
The library has been temporarily operated from the Lee Davies Day Centre at the Bloomfield Centre while repairs were completed.
To enable stock to be returned to the main library site, the temporary library will close to the public from Thursday 5th October
Friends of Narberth Library (FONL) volunteers will then reopen the doors at St James Street at 10am on Saturday 7th October and welcome customers back to the facility.At St James Street, the library will revert to its normal opening times:
• Tuesday: 10am – 12 noon, 3-5pm
• Thursday: 10am –1pm, 2-5pm
• Saturday: 10am –
1pm.
The Council’s Library Service and FONL thanked colleagues from Adult Social Care and staff at the Bloomfield Centre for their willingness to share the space available to ensure a continued library service while repairs were carried out.
Cllr Marc Tierney, who represents Narberth Urban ward, said: “It’s great news that Narberth Community Library is reopening at St James Street and with its usual
opening hours.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to keep library provision in Narberth over the last few months while the repairs were carried out.
“I know FONL volunteers cannot wait to welcome customers back through the doors this weekend and I would thoroughly recommend a visit to see what’s on offer.”
Narberth Community Library will remain at the St James Street site ahead of the move to a
A CHARITY RUGBY
MATCH that was organised by a Wales Air Ambulance past patient has raised £6,000.
Richard Jones, of Tenby, organised the event to raise funds for Wales Air Ambulance and the Friends of Morriston Hospital, both of whom provided him and his family support after he survived a road traffic accident on the A40 in Carmarthenshire, which led to the partial amputation of his right leg.
Despite challenging weather, Pembroke RFC hosted the charity match organised by explayer Richard, in front
of bumper crowds.
Prior to the main match between Pembroke RFC and Richard’s guest squad, the ‘Misfits’, the Pembroke Panthers gave an exhibition of their skills in a noncontact session. The day also included a tombola, raffles and an auction, which included an aeroplane ride with ex-Wales international, Ian Gough.
The event, which took place on 5 August, was a success with Richard’s friends and family as well as the local community showing
their support, including ex-army medic Ian Thompson, the man who was first at the scene of Richard’s accident, back in February 2022.
Richard, 33, said he had always planned to hold his own event since his accident to say thank you to his chosen charities.
He said: “It took over four months of planning and organising the event and I was amazed with how it went in the end. It was my first time doing anything like that and in the run up to the event it felt that everything was against me. People were dropping out; we had a storm and the bouncy castle and
family activities had to be cancelled due to the weather.
“However, thankfully the day went amazingly well. A personal highlight had to be when the Misfits team were winning at half time. I have had so much positive feedback with people asking for the match to become an annual event, and I feel I have no choice to do something like this in the future.”
The funds from the match will be split between the Wales Air Ambulance and the Friends of Morriston Hospital.
Richard said: “Without the Wales Air Ambulance, I simply
would not be here today. The Charity was not only there for me at my accident but was there for me and my family afterwards also. While I have done some fundraising campaigns for the Charity, I wanted to raise funds by holding my own event, to say thank you for all the help and support they have shown us since my accident.
“I never expected to raise so much money from one event and I am very grateful for all the support and kind donations from everyone who helped make the day a success.”
The Wales Air Ambulance relies
entirely on public donations to raise £11.2 million every year to keep its four helicopters in the air and fleet of rapid response vehicles on the road.
Richard said he wanted to thank everybody who donated raffle prizes, the match sponsors and Daps Baps Burger Van and Pembroke Rugby Club for their hospitality. He added: “I want to thank all the players who took part, they all put in so much effort. But most of all, I would like to thank my family and friends for their support and who helped make the day possible.”
THE PEMBROKE
DOCK community and Greenacres Rescue centre rally behind an 11-week-old spaniel pup, found abandoned and possessing unusual physical features, as inquiries into her abandonment commence.
In an unusual case capturing local attention, a black spaniel puppy, now named Ariel, was left abandoned in Pembroke Dock town centre, presenting not only a vulnerability due to her age but also due to her distinct physical characteristics – two additional rear legs and a possibility of two vulvas.
Ariel was discovered and subsequently brought to Medivet in Pembroke on September 27 by a concerned citizen, whose attempts to provide contact information proved fruitless due to an incorrect phone number.
Given the pup’s unique
and potentially complex medical needs, Sally Bland, the local authority
dog warden, coordinated Ariel’s transfer to Greenacres Rescue, near Haverfordwest, for specialist care.
Mikey Lawlor of
Greenacres Rescue recalled, “Sally informed us of the abandoned pup and her notable birth defects, prompting a unanimous decision for a thorough veterinary examination at Fenton Vets in Haverfordwest.”
The ensuing examination, performed by Dr Charlotte Biddle, was shrouded in uncertainties due to Ariel’s unknown history and distinctive physical traits. “Our investigations elucidated that Ariel boasts two additional hind legs and an embryonic second vulva,” Dr Biddle detailed. Anomalies with her pelvic formation,
attributed to an extra hip joint, were also noted.
Despite the initial medical ambiguities, Ariel demonstrated a reassuring resilience and normal functionality during a meticulous 48-hour observation period. Furthermore, her apparent comfort around other dogs during her temporary foster care has been a heartening observation.
The aptly named Ariel – a nod to a mermaid-like semblance noted by a commenter – is scheduled for a reassessment in a month’s time, postrecovery from her initial ordeal. The prospect
of multiple surgeries, including potential limb removal and further exploration of her pelvic region, looms in her future.
Meanwhile, a social media appeal has been instigated, aimed at uncovering both Ariel’s origins and identifying the individual who initially provided her to the vet, in a bid to clarify the circumstances surrounding her abandonment.
Ariel will continue to be sheltered in foster care until her subsequent assessment, placing additional financial demands on Greenacres Rescue. Mikey Lawlor expressed, “With our monthly bills for regular animal treatments already averaging around £20,000, instances like these undoubtedly impose a significant strain on our resources.”
Established in 2008, Greenacres Rescue, the only allanimal rescue centre in Pembrokeshire, remains dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of animals ranging from hamsters to horses. Donations towards Ariel’s veterinary costs or Greenacres’ operational expenses are encouraged and can be sent via their website or directly to Greenacres Rescue, Talbenny, Haverfordwest, SA62 3XA.
Two hedgehogs have been given a new lease of life in the Pembrokeshire countryside thanks to Bluestone National Resort and Pembrokeshire Hogspital.
The resort came to the rescue by releasing the hedgehogs at Black Pool Farm, near to its Black Pool Mill dining venue.
The pair had been rescued by the ‘hogspital’ when they were very young and were rehabilitated before being released.
Marten Lewis, Director of Sustainability at Bluestone and the resort’s Ranger Rob Mackeen, collected the them before releasing them.
“The two hedgehogs had been rescued when they were very young and once they reached one year old they needed to be
reintroduced to the wild,” said Marten.
“Unfortunately, their original habitat was not suitable so we offered to release them into the countryside at Black Pool Farm which is close to the mill. It’s a natural environment for them and a perfect place to start their new lives.”
Marten and Rob collected the pair for Pembrokeshire Hogspital before taking them to the location for release.
“It was heart warming to see them wander off into the countryside. Hedgehogs are a vital part of our eco-diversity and we’re pleased we were able to help the hogspital with their vital work,” Rob said.
“We are committed to providing a safe environment for the
hedgehogs and have dedicated areas where they will be nurtured and monitored on release to their natural habitat.”
“We are thrilled to be a part of this heart warming journey of rehabilitation and release.”
Ginny Batt of Pembrokeshire Hogspital, said: “In my lifetime hedgehog numbers have declined dramatically, from an estimated 35 million to less than 500,000 now. They will become extinct if we don’t do something to help them.
“It’s important to make our gardens accessible and hedgehog friendly, covering drains and holes in the ground, reducing the use of garden chemicals, and making sure ponds have exit slopes. Hedgehogs are also being affected by climate
change, triggering them to hibernate later.
“This means baby hoglets may not survive the winter. Putting out food all year around saves lives. If you see them out in the daytime, if they are lethargic, being harmed by birds, dogs or people, please pick up the hedgehog with gloves or a towel, put it in a high sided box with a towel, and water, then contact your local rescue centre.”
Ginny added: “At Pembrokeshire Hogspital we take in over 200 hogs a year, with a small but dedicated team of volunteers. Funding and support from Bluestone has been invaluable, helping us with our Hogspital and to set up our South Pembs emergency centre, ‘Pennys Pit Stop’; purchasing equipment,
medication and essential supplies. Bluestone also provides an ideal release site for homeless Hedgehogs. We are grateful for Bluestone’s
support and hope the Hedgehogs released are behaving themselves, we look forward to news of hoglets in the spring.”
THE 405 Poppit Rocket bus service which operates along the coast between Fishguard and Cardigan is now being operated as a fflecsi service.
Rather than operating six days in the summer and one day in the winter, the new service will operate Monday to Saturday all year around.
The service will cover the area between Fishguard and Cardigan as well as the area to the south as far as Crymych. This will provide a more sustainable and usable service for
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailcommunities, many of which do not currently have a regular bus service all year around.
The new fflecsi service will also provide a link to the Cardigan Integrated Health Centre.
The service is being funded using existing bus subsidy.
Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett said: “The expansion of this fflecsi service is fantastic news for residents and visitors.
“The existing provision has proven
to be very successful in opening up the service to a wider area and providing greater travel options for passengers.
“This new fflecsi service will also enable residents and visitors with access to transport 6 days a week all year around which has not previously been the case.”
The service started on Monday 2nd October and it is available anytime between 7.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday.
Booking can be made via the fflecsi app or by phoning 0300 234 0300.
TEN years after its first publication, the new State of Nature Wales report shows nature continues to decline across Wales.
Its authors claim the report provides a detailed picture of how nature is faring and what is needed to fix it.
Some of the wildlife that has suffered the biggest population losses are the insects, flora and mammals that people may be less familiar with.
Well-known species like the Atlantic Salmon and Curlew have also suffered critical declines in Wales. These species are disappearing from our seas and countryside.
State of Nature 2023 shows that since careful monitoring of 380 Welsh species began in 1994, the numbers of those species have declined on average by 20%.
Some of the wildlife that has suffered the biggest population losses are the insects, flora and mammals that people may be less familiar with. Well-known species like the Atlantic Salmon and Curlew have also suffered
Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.emailcritical declines in Wales.
18% (one in six) of our species is at risk of extinction from Wales, including plants and animals such as the Fen Orchid, Water Vole and Sand Lizard.
Alun Prichard, Director of RSPB Cymru, said: “Governments, businesses, communities and the public must now work together and more urgently if we are to put nature back where it belongs. We must be ambitious. Nature can’t wait and neither should we.”
Clare Pillman, Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales, said: “Despite some progress, Wales still faces challenges in biodiversity conservation. Climate change, habitat loss, changes in land use, invasive species, and pollution continue to impact our ecosystems.
“Only together can we put Wales on a solid footing on the path to nature’s recovery.”
Action for nature can
make a real difference.
Bats show an average increase of 76% since 1998, with two species in particular recovering from seriously depleted numbers in the 1990s thanks to increased protection of the places they live.
Butterflies relying on specialist habitat management have started to recover over the last decade. However, numbers remain less than half that in 1993.
Protecting Little Terns in Denbighshire has enabled the main Welsh breeding colony to become one of the most important in Britain. Peatland restoration in Ceredigion has maintained the population of Large Heath butterflies.
The Welsh Government is committed to ambitious targets to address nature loss through the new Global Biodiversity Framework. However, its top-down approach has alienated key stakeholders whose support the Welsh Government will depend on to deliver its ambitions. The law of
foreseeable, unforeseen consequences that dogs the Welsh Government’s decision-making means that actions intended to improve biodiversity and protect and enhance nature will likely have the opposite result.
For example, the RSPB’s calls to reduce grazing on salt marshes directly contributed to a catastrophic fall in curlew numbers. Making forestry commercially viable through mass tree planting will damage Wales’s food security, destroy existing ecosystems, and alter the rural Welsh landscape. The last of those is one of Wales’s most cherished features and has been shaped by humankind since the Stone Age.
Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Janet Finch-Saunders MS, said: “I am determined to reverse the decline in wildlife and call for change from the Labour Government.
“The Labour Government must introduce legal targets for nature recovery in Wales, a National Marine
Development Plan, and to set up a Welsh equivalent to the Office for Environmental Protection.
Wales is the only country in the UK without one. “Labour is all talk and no action.”
WITH new Shared Prosperity funding secured from the UK Government, the Springboard, Learning Pembrokeshire project has been able to extend its reach to new schools and double the support it offers to its already established school partners.
Springboard can now offer schools support and training possibilities for adult family members to compliment the Family Learning opportunities that the project has focussed on in recent years.
To celebrate Adult Learner’s Week Springboard ran three Fayres of free family activities in Milford Haven Community Primary School, Waldo Williams and Ysgol Glannau Gwaun. Each event was extremely
well attended by families. Families with children from nursery through to Year 6, all new to Springboard, took to the activities with real enthusiasm.
Pottery, cake decorating, mark making, story spoon craft and bushcraft were among the many free activities available.
Springboard activities planned for October at both Waldo Williams and Ysgol Glannau Gwaun are now all fully booked thanks to the interest generated from the Fayres.
The Fayres mark the launch of free activities for families in both Waldo Williams and Ysgol Glannau Gwaun – schools which Laura Phillips, the Springboard Coordinator, is thrilled to be able to work
with.
Laura said: “Springboard Family Learning has the power to engage, enthuse, inspire and support families explore new skills and interests that can have a life changing impact for all involved.
“To be able to offer these opportunities to more schools across Pembrokeshire than ever before is something which we have only been able to do thanks to this Levelling Up grant”.
Next to benefit from this grant will be Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi and Prendergast.
Waldo Williams Headteacher, Debbie Bond said: “The families of Waldo Williams are so excited to have this opportunity to learn new skills with their children.
“We feel so lucky to have
Springboard to engage with and support our families. Exciting times ahead!”
Mari Jones, Headteacher of Glannau Gwaun said “We are privileged to have the opportunity to welcome the Springboard project to Ysgol Glannau Gwaun.
“Our pupils and parents have already experienced the exciting and engaging opportunities available to them through a highly successful launch afternoon.
“The pupils talk with enthusiasm about the coming weeks and as a school we know this project will be highly beneficial to both our pupils and their families”.
Much more information on Springboard is available on the Project’s Facebook page
THE OUTWARD
BOUND TRUST’S ‘Let Us Out’ (Gadwech Ni Allan) campaign calls for outdoor residential learning to be made part of the school curriculum.
Over 200 young people took to some of the UK’s most challenging peaks today, to join a nationwide protest that calls for outdoor residentials to be made part of the school curriculum.
The protests come after research shows Welsh kids are spending less time outside than their parents and European counterparts. At just over four hours a week, compared to 8.2 hours a week they spend half as much time playing outside as their parents did.
Worse, Wales ranks below its neighbours France and Germany in The Global Matrix 4.0 on Physical Activity for Children and Adolescents. The impact of this lack of outdoor activity has long-lasting side effects, ranging from mental health issues to shortfalls in confidence and resilience.
A recent report showing referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services increasing by
39% between 2020/21 and 2021/22, with 1.1 million under-18-yearolds referred.
58% of young people ranking mental health as one of the top three issues for their generation.
Teachers, parents and young people are grappling with these challenges every single day and this is worsened by a lack of outdoor play and adventure in the curriculum.
That’s why Outward Bound is throwing its weight behind the proposed Outdoor Education Bills and campaigning in Wales, England and Scotland, to make outdoor residentials a compulsory part of the curriculum.
Outdoor residentials, like Outward Bound, provide young people with rich, life-changing learning experiences that take place outside the classroom. They typically happen away from home and involve an overnight element to build resilience, self-confidence and a deeper connection with the natural and wider world.
“We are calling on politicians to make outdoor residential learning a priority and invest in our children’s
future”, said Martin Davidson Chief Executive of Outward Bound. “Providers like us teach resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, which are vitally important as we facedown this mental health crisis and many other societal and environmental challenges.”
Armed with flags and banners the young people could be heard chanting “Let Us Out!” as they brandished their placards and made their voices heard on the mountain tops.
Groups marched across some of the UK’s most well-known peaks and valleys including Eryri/Snowdonia in Wales, English Lake District and Scottish Highlands, to protest their case.
“I have seen firsthand the benefits of outdoor residentials,” said Marjorie, a teacher at St Mungos in Falkirk who’s students battled the elements in Scotland’s glens. “It has a transformative effect on our young people, helping them to grow and develop in ways that they never could in a classroom.”
Thea, a former Outward Bound participant aged 14 added. “I’ve learnt that
I am capable of doing things that I have never done before. I can overcome my fears.”
Leo Houlding, worldclass British Rock Climber and Mountaineer, also backed the campaign stating: “This is about achieving equity for outdoor learning, a value Outward Bound firmly believes in. That no matter who you are or where you are from, adventure should be available to everyone, not just those who can afford it.”
“I fully support Outward Bound’s call for outdoor residentials to be part of the curriculum,” said Sam Rowlands MS the politician behind the Welsh Outdoor Education Bill. “There’s lots of evidence that shows when children engage
with the outdoors, there’s a big reduction in physical health issues and in mental health issues. Learning to enjoy and play outside and have adventurous experiences makes such a difference for our children in the long run.”
Tim Farron MP, CoChair of the Outdoor Learning APPG in Westminster emphasised the inclusive aspect, stating, “Outdoor education should not just be for the privileged. It should be an experience that is available to every young person from every school in our country.”
Echoing Sam’s sentiment, Liz Smith MSP added, “Outdoor education is hugely beneficial for both the mental and physical
wellbeing of young people, which is so important, especially after the impact the pandemic has had on their education.”
Outward Bound’s Protest in the Peaks marks the start of their campaign to make outdoor residential learning part of the curriculum. They are asking individuals and organisations to join their movement by signing up at www.outwardbound. org.uk/let-us-out. Outward Bound’s mission is to inspire young people so they can achieve more than they ever thought possible. As a charity, they fund disadvantaged and underrepresented communities from across the UK to carefully balance risk and reward, whilst experiencing Britain’s wildest places.
NEW research suggests the learning gap suffered by young pupils as a result of the pandemic is starting to narrow.
The difference between reading and maths scores of Year 3 and 4 pupils in the 2022/23 academic year compared to those before Covid is smaller than it was. But the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers remains wide.
The findings are the latest in a series of reports conducted by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) tracking the longer-term impact of the pandemic on younger pupils’ reading and maths skills.
Published and funded by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF), the research has followed over 6,000 pupils who were in Reception and Year 1 (four- to six-year-olds) in March 2020, with the most recent assessment taking place in the spring term of 2023 with the same pupils, now in
Years 3 and 4.
The study tracks the estimated Covid-19 gap* and disadvantage gap** over time to gain an understanding of pupils’ attainment relative to where they might expect to be had the pandemic not occurred.
Dr Ben Styles, Head of Classroom Practice and Workforce at NFER said:
“It is encouraging that three years on from the first school closures, there are real signs of improvement in both the reading and maths performance
of Year 3 and Year 4 pupils. Schools have been working tirelessly following the pandemic to put strategies in place to support pupils’ learning recovery.
“Our evidence suggests there should be a greater focus on very low attaining pupils and closing the disadvantage gap. It is essential that schools are both adequately funded and supported to do so using evidencebased approaches. This will be required over the long term.”
Covid-19 gap closed
for pupils on average in both reading and maths
The new data shows that in spring 2023 there was no significant difference in Year 3 pupils’ reading and Year 4 pupils’ maths performance, compared to the pre-pandemic pupil samples.
For reading and maths, in both Years 3 and 4, the Covid gap significantly reduced compared with spring 2021 and spring 2022. However, the analysis did show a notable proportion of very low attaining pupils*** in
Year 3 reading, larger than seen before the pandemic (4.9 per cent compared with 2.5 per cent).
Disadvantage gap is shrinking, but it remains wider than before the pandemic
Year 3 and 4 pupils eligible for free school meals were each estimated to be around seven months behind their more well-off peers for reading in spring 2023. These gaps have not decreased since spring 2021 and remain wider than gaps reported before the pandemic.
Meanwhile, the disadvantage gaps for maths in spring 2023 for each of Year 3 and Year 4 were estimated to be around six months - significantly reduced since spring 2021 but wider than gaps reported before the pandemic.
Schools report support for pupils’ wellbeing is still a priority, particularly for disadvantaged pupils
The research shows that schools have continued with a number of strategies developed
during the pandemic, including increased wellbeing support, and provision for home learning which most schools felt they were able to support well.
Schools who reported disruption to learning gave the most common reason as being related to pupils’ behaviour and wellbeing, a much more commonly reported challenge than in previous years of the study. The research also explored pupils’ social skills, behaviour and wellbeing. It found the social maturity of pupils in 2022/23 was not significantly different to that seen in 2021/22. However, disadvantaged pupils were assessed as having significantly lower social skills than non-disadvantaged pupils. Three quarters of schools reported that they were prioritising learning recovery support for their disadvantaged pupils, but schools were concerned about the level of funding to support pupils who had missed learning.
REDHILL PREP
SCHOOL is to become Pembrokeshire’s Chess Hub, hosting County-Wide competitions for Primary School Children.
The school says that is thrilled to announce its new status as the only chess hub for the county accredited by the Welsh Chess Union, as it opens its doors to host a chess competition on Saturday, 2nd December for primary school children across Pembrokeshire.
Redhill School recognises the importance of chess in developing critical thinking skills, problemsolving abilities, and strategic planning
amongst young minds. The chess competition aims to bring together children from various schools to foster healthy competition, camaraderie, and a love for the game.
“We are immensely proud to be able to provide this opportunity for the children in our county,” said Miss Brown, Deputy Head, and chess coordinator. “Chess is a game that promotes logical thinking, patience, and perseverance, and we believe that all children should have the chance to experience its benefits.”
The chess competition will be open to all primary school-aged children
AHOY, land and sky-farers of Pembrokeshire! It’s Stephen Seagull here, your ever-vigilant lookout from the cliffs of our welsh shores, screeching about a tumultuous storm brewing on our horizons – The HS2 Railway Project.
Caw-caw, friends, for the winds of injustice have relentlessly battered our coast and it’s high tide we squawked in unison about it! From my lofty perch, I’ve keenly observed the HS2’s weaving path through England, its iron tracks akin to an unyielding sea serpent, constricting the financial life out of our beloved Wales with each undulating coil.
For us, the feathered folk and human kin alike, this serpentine leviathan of steel does naught but cast shadows of broken promises across our landscapes, with not
a morsel of its bounty reaching our waiting beaks and homes.
Our cries echo through the mist: Why, oh, why is this behemoth, whose every scale and fang resides staunchly in English soil, proclaimed a project of both England and Wales? In whose nest does the benefit lie, when the tracks neither graze our lands nor lighten our burdens?
From my vantage point, winging over the relentless waves of political rhetoric, I’ve glimpsed many a justification set sail only to flounder upon the rocky truth. Secretary of State for Wales, David TC Davies, once told tales of reduced carbon emissions and ethereal benefits wafting towards us on eastern winds, only to morph his melody into a tune that denies Welsh entitlement to any such infrastructural boon, as rail is not devolved.
The winds whisper of CrossRail, an “England-only” classified project that didn’t pluck financial resources from our coffers. Yet, HS2, by some mysterious alchemy, is perceived as a venture from which Wales draws nectar, despite our being starkly absent from its physical realms.
The underfunding tempest has left our rails rusting in salty sorrow, with only 2% electrified compared to England’s 41%
and Scotland’s 25%. As I soar above the neglected tracks, my heart sinks like a ship bereft of hope amidst a storm of disregard and abandonment. Our journey, dear kin, has been confined to these rocky shores while the HS2 serpent slithers freely through England, basking in bountiful investments. With each beat of my wings, I screech out a plea for unity, a call to navigate through the murky seas of inequity towards a horizon where every creature, feathered, furred, or otherwise, embarks on a collective voyage towards progression and prosperity.
Let our squawks echo, rebounding off the cliffs of Pembrokeshire and resounding through the halls of decisionmakers: It is not merely the undulating path of progress we seek but a shared journey where no being, no region is left squinting through the mists, abandoned at the harbor.
In our unified caw, in the resonating beat of our wings, let us find strength and perseverance to ensure that the future horizons bring fair winds and calm seas for all, not merely for those who commandeer the voyage from afar.
Til our paths cross again upon these boundless skies, fair winds to ye all, Stephen Seagull.
IN A WORLD grappling with the urgency of climate change and the imperative of energy conservation, companies like Eco Home Insulation are leading the way, not just as businesses but as champions of a greener and more sustainable future.
Founded by Managing Director Daniel Marsden in 2018, Eco Home Insulation has become a beacon of hope for those grappling with skyrocketing household bills and the looming energy crisis.
Home insulation may not be the flashiest topic, but its impact is nothing short of extraordinary. A well-insulated home acts as a thermal shield, keeping the indoor environment comfortable all year round. But the benefits extend far beyond mere comfort.
The foremost benefit of home insulation is its ability to significantly reduce energy consumption. By preventing heat from escaping during the winter
and keeping cool air in during the summer, insulation reduces the need for constant heating and cooling leading to substantial energy savings and translating into lower energy bills.
There is no denying that the cost of living has soared, and the energy crisis has left many families struggling to keep up with their bills. In response, Daniel Marsden and his team at Eco Home Insulation are now committed to not just having a positive impact on the environment, but also helping their customers save money on their household bills through grant-funded insulation, heating, and renewable measures.
Eco Home Insulation is a shining example of a company that understands the intricate relationship between sustainable living and financial prudence. Their commitment to the environment and their customers is evident in every aspect of their work.
In an era where climate change is no longer a distant threat, but an immediate concern, Eco Home Insulation’s mission to reduce the carbon footprint remains steadfast. However, their expansion into providing financial relief couldn’t be timelier. The cost of living has placed immense pressure on households, and the energy crisis has created uncertainty. Eco Home Insulation stands as a guiding light, offering a helping hand to those in need by making grant-funded insulation, heating, and renewable measures available to eligible customers via the ECO4 scheme. This initiative allows homeowners to improve their homes, reduce energy bills, and lower their carbon footprint at no cost. You can check your potential eligibility for these measures on Eco Home Insulation’s website at http:// www.ecohomeinsulation.co.uk/
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY, celebrated on 10th October, serves as a potent reminder of the multifaceted nature of mental health, impacting and permeating through every strata and age group of society. From the silent struggles of children and the isolated fields of farming to the potential of digital support spaces and the comforting pages of a book, mental health takes numerous shapes and forms. This feature underscores the interconnectedness of these diverse facets, illustrating that our collective mental wellbeing is interwoven through various aspects of society and life.
The collective actions, be it through providing platforms for virtual support, encouraging reading as a mechanism of support, or establishing physical and practical assistance in sectors like farming, underpin a universal truth - mental health is omnipresent, and our approaches towards it must be as varied and comprehensive as its manifestations.
Nurturing the Young: The Youth’s Silent Crisis
The echoes of the pandemic
have undeniably reverberated across all facets of society, particularly magnifying its impact on children’s mental health. With an increased absence rate from schools and a palpable rise in mental health struggles, the crisis’s semblance is clear and present. Before COVID-19, indicators were already showing a growing number of children grappling with issues like eating disorders. Now, amidst global adversities like war and poverty, the mental wellbeing of the nation’s youth has become ever more precarious.
Worryingly,
research suggests up to 75% of children with diagnosable mental health issues aren’t receiving the necessary assistance. Absenteeism, frequently linked to psychological distress in the work environment, is mirrored in the schooling context, signaling a substantial amount of children presently facing mental health troubles.
While schools have traditionally been considered a bastion of resilience for kids, recognizing when a child is struggling and employing the four pillars of health - Nutrition, Exercise, Relaxation/ stress management,
and Sleep - has become paramount. Parents, guardians, and families are urged to embrace these pillars, along with professional help, to usher in a supportive atmosphere where children feel understood, secure, and cared for.
The expansive fields of farming, often associated with serene landscapes, obscure the mental battles fought by farmers daily. In places like Pembrokeshire, farming, while a vital occupation, is frequently isolating and brings its own set of mental strains. Matters like Bovine TB and other agriculture-related challenges significantly impact farmers’ mental health and wellbeing.
The commendable efforts of farming organizations provide a critical lifeline, offering support and mitigating the distressing impacts of such issues. Paul Davies extols these entities and underscores the indispensable role they play in buttressing the rural community’s mental health. As World Mental Health Day dawns, the call for continued and enhanced support from governmental bodies to fortify these
organizations is sounded, ensuring their ability to provide vital services for the years to come.
In a digital era and amidst persistent challenging times, the Royal Voluntary Service marks World Mental Health Day with a ‘Mindspace Week’ at its Virtual Village Hall, creating a refuge of sorts in the virtual world. This initiative transcends geographical and physical barriers, providing a comprehensive daily programme aimed at mental wellbeing, comprising advice sessions from health experts to mindful activities such as yoga and meditation.
Mindspace Week is not only a response to the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic but a testament to the innovative ways in which support and community can be fostered in a digital age. From exploring topics like the impact of menopause on mental health to delving into workplace stress and neurodiversity, it underscores the importance of a collective approach towards mental health.
Reading as
Resilience: The Shelf Care Book Club Initiative
The adage “reading is fundamental” takes on a multi-faceted meaning with the Shelf Care Book Club, which seamlessly blends literacy with mental health support. KiddyCharts, a recognized parenting website, aligns with the sentiments of World Mental Health Day, urging parents and teachers to utilize reading as a tool for not just educational, but emotional development as well.
With a backdrop of a report highlighting the doubling of persistent absenteeism among children post-pandemic due to mental health and anxiety, the Shelf Care Book Club emerges as a crucial resource. It not only provides free access to books and activities that bolster wellbeing but also acts as an indirect tool to enhance mental health practices among children. By meticulously selecting books that navigate through various emotional and psychological landscapes, the initiative fosters an environment where mental health is not merely discussed but intrinsically woven into leisurely activities, creating a robust, supportive framework.
MILFORD HAVEN’S entertainment scene has been taken to new heights with the highly anticipated opening of HANGAR! This extraordinary venue promises an unparalleled experience for all attendees, setting a new standard for event spaces in the area.
Located at Thornton Industrial Estate, HANGAR boasts an impressive 5000 square feet of space. Inside, visitors will find a fully stocked bar, catering to their beverage needs, and a remarkable 6-meter by 3-meter LED screen that is guaranteed to leave them mesmerised. The sheer scale and technology of this LED screen make it a one-of-a-kind attraction in Pembrokeshire, setting HANGAR apart from
any other venue, but the little things haven’t been forgotten with plenty of heating and seating across the venue.
“Milford Haven is undoubtedly experiencing an upward trajectory, and HANGAR is far more than just an ordinary event space,” said Steve Bartram, Project Coordinator and popular local musician.
“We have really kept the local community in mind, the venue’s location has been meticulously selected to guarantee minimal disruption for residents of the town while ensuring easy accessibility for all visitors to HANGAR from Milford, Neyland, Pembroke and beyond” said Steve Organisers have expressed to not wait too long to experience
this limited-time gem! HANGAR will only host a handful of exclusive events this year, making securing tickets a priority before they disappear!
GRAND OPENING: The Big All-Day FanZone Area + Oktoberfest Extravaganza – Saturday, 7th October
As the Rugby World Cup action continues to heat up, the party at HANGAR keeps going strong! The Fan Zone area will be alive with the vibrant sounds of Steve Bartram
Throughout the day, visitors can catch THREE thrilling home nations rugby games on HANGAR’s spectacular 6 by 3-meter LED video wall, complete with comfortable seating for the ultimate viewing
pleasure. Live music performances during halftime breaks will keep the spirit alive and kicking.
Hungry attendees can indulge in authentic German street food served by specialised traders, perfectly complemented by a selection of traditional German beers to enhance the atmosphere.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! After the rugby matches, Oompah Cymru, Wales’ finest Oompah band will take to the stage promising an unforgettable Oktoberfest experience for all attendees leading lively dancing and crowd participation, creating an atmosphere that Milford Haven won’t forget.
Tickets: Eventbrite.com
BIG BROTHER, the iconic reality television show, is making a comeback to UK screens after a hiatus since 2018.
Originally airing on Channel 4 in 2000 and later shifting to Channel 5 from 2011 to 2018, the show was temporarily axed in 2018 but is now set to return with a fresh look and new hosts, AJ Odudu and Will Best, on ITV.
One of the significant changes awaiting viewers is the introduction of two hosts, Odudu and Best, marking the first time in Big Brother history that the show will be presented by a duo. The way contestants exit the house is also undergoing a transformation. Unlike previous seasons, where housemates
faced either cheers or boos from the audience during eviction nights, this traditional practice is being reevaluated. Will Best, speaking to The Mirror, acknowledged the evolving social climate, stating, “It does feel as though the world has changed a little bit.”
In this reboot, contestants are expected to receive increased protection and support. Odudu expressed her sense of duty towards the mental well-being of the participants, especially considering that many of them have never experienced the spotlight of television before. She emphasised the need to offer emotional support, anticipating situations where contestants might face criticism from the audience. Despite this protective stance, Odudu
asserted her commitment to asking pertinent and challenging questions when necessary, ensuring a balanced approach to the show.
For eager fans wondering about the premiere, “Big Brother: The Launch” is set to air on ITV1, ITV2, and ITVX on October 8, marking a disruptive multi-channel and streaming takeover. Following the launch, the series will be broadcast nightly (excluding Saturdays) on ITV2 and ITVX, offering viewers a daily dose of reality television drama.
Tune in on Sunday, October 8 at 9 pm to witness the revamped Big Brother experience, embracing changes while retaining the essence that made the show a household favourite.
ALED JONES –
the boy treble who captivated the world with his angelic voice is hitting the road for a major UK tour, in which he’ll go Full Circle and will appear on the Torch Theatre stage on Wednesday 27 March next year. Selling over seven million albums, Aled was the original, classical crossover star. His recording of Walking in the Air, from the animated film The Snowman, firmly established him as a household name and he has become an integral part of the nation’s festivities. Equally at home on the classical stage, or starring in musical theatre productions in London West End, his credits include lead roles in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour
Dreamcoat, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.
Aled said: “It’s time to come Full Circle. I’m really excited about this tour. I’ll be telling stories about how it all began, then taking the audience on a journey through my career. There’ll be songs, there’ll be stories, and there’ll be one or two surprises. There’ll also be a book – it’s going to be a very busy 2024 and I can’t wait to get on the road and visit interesting places I’ve never visited before and of course see my wonderful fans.
“There have been some incredible moments – meeting Royalty, playing concert halls all over the world, singing at Bob Geldof and Paula Yates’s wedding – and, of course, recording
Walking In The Air, right through to Songs Of Praise and Classic FM.
“The show will be stories and songs from across my career. I’ll be singing some of my favourites, telling some of my stories, and showing previouslyunseen photographs. Who knows, the audience might even get to ask a few questions.”
As a singer, Aled is in demand globally and has performed in the world’s most iconic venues, from London’s Royal Albert Hall to the Sydney Opera House. Aled is a favourite with the Royal Family and even gave a private performance to King Charles III in Kensington Palace.
And now he’s getting ready to tell his story during a series of intimate concerts, starting in Spring 2024.
He is an awardwinning television broadcaster and radio presenter who’s interviewed hundreds of A-List stars over the years. He heads up BBC’s Songs of Praise and his own Saturday and Sunday morning shows on Classic FM.
Now, after 40 years in the business, he’s looking back on a remarkable career with a one-man show, that will feature never-beforeheard music, tales from the decades and for the first time, his story told in his own words. It’s time to come Full Circle.
Aled Jones will be on the Torch Theatre stage on Wednesday 27 March at 7.30pm. Ticket prices £30 / £50 VIP / £70 Meet and Greet. For tickets phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.
THE SET construction is now well underway here at the Torch Theatre for the production of Private Lives. The flooring is down, the walls are papered. It won’t be long until we can welcome you to see the hilarious show and the beautiful sets designed by Kevin Jenkins.
Kevin is a designer of set and costumes and has been designing for the theatre for 17 years having trained on the Motley Theatre Design Course. He has designed for numerous productions including Constant Companions, Family Album, The Girl Next Door and A Brief History of Women that transferred to 59E59 Theaters in New York. However, this will be his first time designing the stage and costumes at the Torch.
The father of two
from Derbyshire has enjoyed his visits to Pembrokeshire and the production of Private Lives has been both interesting and fulfilling as Kevin explains:
“Chelsey, the Artistic Director had a clear vision of what she wanted. The stage is to be a fun interpretation of the period with an art-deco style and that’s exactly what we’ve created.”
Starting a new project is always exciting and challenging but Kevin has thoroughly enjoyed designing the set.
“First I read the script to get to know the production. I’ll analyse it, for example, to work out the number of entrances into the room or to see if there are any specific references to clothing. I’ll then research the period and have lengthy talks with the director,” said Kevin who had never seen a stage production of Private Lives before.
“I’ve watched screen versions of it on YouTube but I do like to get my own insight of it first so as not to be influenced by others. But at the same time, it’s great to see other’s take on it and to get ideas.
“The first act came quite quickly and has a bold statement. Chelsey and I had really good conversations and an informative Pinterest board. We wanted to get this seaside feel, with the balconies, each with a door from a hotel bedroom. The second act took longer to come together partly aiming to find a bold art deco aesthetic whilst acknowledging that, in reality, much of the furniture would be some 20 years older. It was challenging,” explained Kevin who worked closely with the Production Manager, Andy Sturley on the technical points.
Since the Covid
THIS October at the Torch Theatre, local business owner Lloyd Grayshon, a Pembrokeshire native, will showcase his wonderful photographs of the county at the Joanna Field Gallery called The Lloyd Grayshon Exhibition. Based mostly on nature and wildlife, Lloyd’s images have captured the changing Pembrokeshire weather and its glorious landscape.
Owner of Media to Motion; a production company with a special focus on video creation based here in Pembrokeshire, Lloyd’s passion lies in videography. However most recently, he has also developed a deep appreciation for the art of photography.
Father of two, Lloyd, is really looking forward to be exhibiting his work at the Torch Theatre
which is on his doorstep. He said: “I’m thrilled to present my photography in the Torch Theatre Gallery. The shots were taken whilst on various projects as a videographer. A drone pilot allowed me
pandemic, Kevin now works digitally compared to most theatre designers who use the very traditional process of using models at a scale of 1 to 25.
“During Covid I reskilled and designing digitally offers advantages. It’s great if I want to change something last minute. The designs can now be sent to anyone and everyone who needs them without having to share the one physical model” explained Kevin.
This week, Kevin will visit the Torch and will work closely with the Wardrobe Supervisor for some last minute touches and to ensure that all the costume fittings go well and that they fit perfectly.
He will then work on the production of Cinderella at the Derby Theatre before returning to the Torch Theatre for the festive pantomime of Beauty and the Beast.
to capture the stunning beauty of Pembrokeshire from unique angles and perspectives.”
The county is most precious to Lloyd and through his images, he hopes to promote Pembrokeshire in the
most magical of ways.
Lloyd concluded: “Pembrokeshire holds a special place in my heart, and through my lens, I aim to share my personal connection and daily encounters with the region’s natural beauty.
“I hope that you’ll enjoy my interpretation of this remarkable place that I call home.”
IN AN age where quality cooking and eating are paramount, Newport Food Festival presents a unique opportunity for children and families to immerse themselves in the world of delicious food, history, and community. Set to take place during Wales’ halfterm week, this festival promises days filled with excitement and culinary exploration.
Renowned chef Jenny Chandler will lead the charge, making cooking easy and fun for children. On Monday, October 30th, at 3:00 PM, head over to the picturesque Trewern Arms by the river Nanhyfer. Here, Jenny will guide young chefs in creating mouthwatering burgers using local seasonal vegetables and beans grown right here in the UK. Make sure to secure your spot by booking in advance.
Children will roll up their sleeves and dive into the culinary world.
They’ll use their hands to create, make delightful dips, select ingredients and flavors, and even determine quantities. The highlight of their day will be savoring their personalized burgers hot from the oven. But that’s not all—parents, it’s your turn at 6:00 PM to witness cooking demos and taste the delectable results.
Jenny Chandler, who hails from Bristol and is renowned for her ability to make sustainable, local, and seasonal food both irresistible and easy, will share her culinary journey with Jessica Seaton, the founder of TOAST. These inspirational women are integral to the Newport Food Festival, a week filled with engaging food and farming activities.
Kickstart your Friday with a visit to Nevern Valley Veg at 10:00 AM, a budding organic horticulture farm run by a passionate young couple. Naomi, who grew up just 2 miles away, combines the noble task of feeding people with nurturing the local ecosystem, including bees, butterflies, voles,
birds, and countless microscopic creatures. Discover their sustainable farming practices and their innovative use of solar energy to power their water system.
Following the morning harvest, the produce will be transported to Newport Hall, where BlueGreen Cymru will guide children in preparing meals together and engaging in arts activities to foster their creativity and culinary imagination.
After lunch, prepare to be captivated by Myfanwy of Rebel Kitchen, who will share her magic of providing haute cuisine to the masses while cooking for the evening meal. She’s been at the forefront of feeding thousands at street events across Wales, Scotland, and England, all in a bid to combat climate change.
At 4:00 PM, Kim
Stoddart, an awardwinning journalist, will join the festival to discuss her teaching and latest book, “Climate Change Gardening,” starting from a ‘throw away the rules’ perspective. Then, at 5:00 PM, Carwyn Graves, a beloved Welsh food historian, will enthrall us with tales from his book, “Welsh Food Stories,” and share his expertise on Wales’ rich food history and diverse apple varieties.
COMMUNITY FOOD MEETING: TRANSFORMING OUR DIET LOCALLY
The evening concludes with a community food meeting, where you can join social pioneers and future forgers like Cris Tomos, Simon Wright, and Jessica Seaton. Together, we’ll explore ways to transform our local diet into one that’s healthier, lower in carbon footprint, and
more sustainable for our producers, the land, and nature. Anything can happen at this gathering of minds, and you won’t want to miss it!
Mark your calendars and come be a part of the Newport Food Festival— an event that blends culinary education, community engagement, and a celebration of local, sustainable food practices. Join us for unforgettable days of fun, learning, and community bonding.
Ghosts
BBC1, 8.30pm
Mike approaches Alison to discuss their finances following the loss of their B&B business. However, Alison is more preoccupied with plotting revenge on the Ghosts for April Fool's Day and recruits a playful Humphrey to execute her plans. Meanwhile, Mike is shocked to find someone from their insurance company on his doorstep.
Are Strong Women –Our Lives. The lives of two women in training for Wales’ Strongest Woman. (R)
8.00 Would I Lie to You? With panellists Victoria Derbyshire, Rhod Gilbert, Rosie Jones and Jamali Maddix. (R)
8.30 Ghosts. New series. Mike and Alison receive some lifechanging news.
9.00 Have I Got News for You.
9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (R)
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 The Graham Norton Show.
11.30 RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. (R)
12.35 Blankety Blank. (R) 1.10 BBC News.
6.30 Escape to the Country.
(R) 7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R)
9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00
BBC News. 12.15 Politics UK.
1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45
Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.45
Great Canadian Railway Journeys.
(R)
4.15 Serengeti III. (R) 5.15
Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Chris Hughes, Debra Stephenson, Inel Tomlinson and Toyah Willcox take part.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Janette Manrara gets all the backstage gossip.
7.00 Gymnastics: World Championships. Coverage of the women’s individual all-around final on day seven of the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships from the Sportpaleis in Antwerp, Belgium.
9.00 Gardeners’ World. Monty Don shares tips on what to do with windfall apples.
10.00 Red Dwarf. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.00 Weather.
11.05 Film: Official Secrets. (2019) Fact-based drama, starring Keira Knightley.
12.50 Sign Zone: Panorama. (R)
1.50 Clean It, Fix It. (R) 2.35 Picasso: The Beauty and the Beast.
(R) 3.35 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.25 Party Political Broadcast. By Plaid Cymru.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.00 Emmerdale. Moira is suspicious, Jai makes a confession, and Charity confronts Mackenzie.
7.30 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. France v Italy (Kick-off 8.00pm).
All the action from both teams’ final match in Pool A, held at OL Lyon Stadium in France.
10.25 ITV News; Weather.
11.00 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
11.15 The NFL Show. Craig Doyle is joined by Osi Umenyiora and Jason Bell to present action from Jacksonville Jaguars v Atlanta Falcons and Washington Commanders v Chicago Bears.
12.05 Heathrow: Britain’s Busiest Airport. (R) 12.55 All Elite Wrestling: Collision. Hard-hitting action from AEW’s newest show. (R) 2.40 Tipping Point. (R)
3.30 Alison Hammond: Back to School. (R) 4.20 Unwind. (R)
5.10 Tenable. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Dan Do. (R) 1.30 Trysorau Cymru: Tir, Tai a Chyfrinachau. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Noson Lawen. (R)
4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R)
6.00 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R)
6.25 Darllediad Gwleidyddol gan Plaid Cymru. 6.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 7.00 Heno.
7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
8.00 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023.
8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
9.00 Hanner Marathon Principality Caerdydd.
10.05 Y Gêm. (R)
10.35 Jonathan: Cwpan y Byd 2023.
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: Gone Girl: The Disappearance of Jennifer Dulos. (2020) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun.
5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. A security dog for a nightclub finds his job confusing. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Shop Smart, Save Money. A Leicester family get help in choosing the best products at the best price.
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. New series. The presenter heads to the northeast corner of England, taking in the stunning Pennines and Northumberland coast.
9.00 Amazing Railway Adventures with Nick Knowles. The presenter tours Romania, and visits the region’s top tourist attraction, Bran Castle, the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s classic novel, Dracula.
10.00 Film: The Fugitive. (1993) Thriller, starring Harrison Ford.
12.35 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
1.30 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.
3.30 Friends. (R) 4.15 The Funny Thing About Kids. (R) 5.05 House Busters. (R)
6.00 Breakfast. 10.00 Saturday Kitchen Live. 11.30 Nadiya’s Simple Spices. (R) 12.00 Football Focus. 1.00 BBC News; Weather.
1.15 Gymnastics: World Championships. The first day of apparatus finals. 4.30 Final Score.
5.15 BBC News. 5.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 5.35 Alan Carr’s Picture Slam.
6.20 Strictly Come Dancing. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman present as the couples return to the Strictly Ballroom for movie week, performing routines inspired by, or paying tribute to, Hollywood films.
First Ladies of Hip Hop
BBC1, 9.35pm
The story of how female rappers fought for their voices to be heard, beginning with pioneering MCs Sha Rock, Debbie D and allwoman crew the Mercedes Ladies talking about their experiences in the very early days. There is a look at Sylvia Robinson, the creative force behind 1979's Rapper's Delight by The Sugarhill Gang and breakthrough hit The Message, by Grandmaster Flash.
8.35 Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel. The comedian hosts the Saturday-night game show, joined by Anita Rani, Babatunde Aleshe, Ekin-Su, Gyles Brandreth, Josh Widdicombe, Nick Knowles and Stacey Dooley.
9.35 Blankety Blank. With Ricky Wilson, Sam Quek, Kerry Godliman, Shane Richie, Remi Burgz and Owen Warner.
10.10 BBC News; Weather.
10.30 Match of the Day.
11.50 Film: The Turning. (2020) A governess is hired to look after an orphaned girl, but the return of the girl’s problematic brother uncovers secrets from their past. Horror, starring Mackenzie Davis.
1.20 Weather for the Week Ahead.
1.25 BBC News.
6.15 Hey Duggee. (R) 6.30 Supertato. (R) 6.35 Shaun the Sheep. (R) 6.55 Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed! (R) 7.05 Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese. (R) 7.15 Grizzy and the Lemmings. (R) 7.35
Pokemon: Sun and Moon – Ultra Legends. (R) 7.55 Deadly Mission Shark. (R) 8.25 Blue Peter. (R)
8.50 Newsround. 9.00 Gardeners’
World. (R) 10.00 Ice Age Giants.
(R) 11.00 Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. (R) 12.00 The Hairy Bakers. (R) 12.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 12.45 Weatherman
Walking. (R) 1.15 Film: Henry V. (1989) 3.25 This Farming Life. (R)
4.30 Gymnastics: World Championships. Further coverage of the first day of apparatus finals.
5.00 Fake or Fortune? (R)
6.00 Flog It!
6.35 Saving Lives at Sea. The RNLI crew race to rescue two fossil hunters in Whitby. (R)
7.35 Great Asian Railway Journeys. Michael Portillo travels around South-east Asia. (R)
8.35 Women of Hip Hop & Soul: Later... with Jools Holland. With Erykah Badu, Kelis, Little Simz and Mary J Blige.
9.35 First Ladies of Hip Hop. New series. The story of how female rappers fought for their voices to be heard.
10.35 First Ladies of Hip Hop.
11.35 Lizzo at Glastonbury 2023.
12.05 Top of the Pops: 1990 – Big Hits. (R) 1.05 Film: So Long, My Son. (2019) 4.00 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 7.30
Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 9.25 ITV News.
9.30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. 11.40 Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. 12.40 Ainsley’s Good Mood Food. 1.05 ITV News; Weather. 1.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Wales v Georgia (Kickoff 2.00pm). 4.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. England v Samoa (Kick-off 4.45pm).
7.00 ITV News; Weather.
7.05 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Ireland v Scotland (Kick-off 8.00pm). All the action from the concluding Pool B match for both teams, held at Stade de France in Paris.
10.35 ITV News; Weather.
10.55 Olivia Marries Her Match. With their wedding a matter of weeks away and the stresses of the big day beginning to take their toll, tensions begin to rise in the Attwood-Dack household. (R)
11.55 English Football League Highlights. Action from the latest fixtures, including Sunderland v Middlesbrough, Leicester City v Stoke City and Leeds United v Bristol City. (R)
1.20 The Chase. (R) 2.10 The Switch. (R) 3.00 Fresh Cuts. (R)
3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 10.00 Hydref Gwyllt Iolo. (R) 11.00 Adre. (R) 11.30 Codi Pac. (R) 11.55
Bwyd Bach Shumana a Catrin. (R) 12.20 Am Dro! (R) 1.15
Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023. Wales v Georgia (Kick-off
2.00pm). 4.30 Dan Do. (R)
5.00 Pen/Campwyr. (R) 5.25
Codi Hwyl: Llydaw. (R)
6.15 Hanner Marathon Principality Caerdydd. Heledd Anna and Rhodri Gomer Davies review the highlights of this iconic race.
(R)
7.15 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.
7.30 Am Dro! (R)
8.30 Noson Lawen.
9.30 Anfamol. (R)
10.00 Ralïo+. (R)
10.30 Yn y Fan a’r Lle. (R)
11.00 Elis James – ’Nabod y Teip. (R)
11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.10 The King of Queens. (R) 7.25 Cheers. (R) 9.00
Everybody Loves Raymond. (R)
9.55 The Simpsons. (R) 12.30 Live Betfred Super League Rugby. 3.00 Guy Martin’s World Tour. (R) 3.35
Four in a Bed. (R) 6.05 Channel 4 News. 6.35 Britain’s Best Beach Huts. (R) 7.30 A Royal Guide To –Parks & Gardens. 8.35 Julia Bradbury’s Irish Journey. 9.35
Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix Qualifying Highlights. 11.05 Film: Minority Report. (2002) 1.50 Film: Bad Hair. (2020) 3.30 Hollyoaks Omnibus. (R) 5.35 Kirstie’s House of Craft. (R) 5.50-6.20 Cheers. (R)
6.00 Milkshake! 9.55 The Smurfs. (R) 10.10 SpongeBob
SquarePants. (R) 10.20
Entertainment News. 10.35
Friends. (R) 12.00 Film: The Secret Garden. (1993) 2.10
Film: Kinky Boots. (2005)
4.20 Film: From Time to Time. (2009)
6.15 5 News Weekend.
6.20 Motorway: Hell on the Highway. (R)
7.05 When Motorways Go Horribly Wrong. First-hand accounts of drivers who came to a grinding halt, from road users who failed to put their brain into gear to extraordinary obstructions and life-ordeath situations.
8.35 The Royal Express: Secrets of the King’s Train. The inside story of the trains used by the monarchy. (R)
9.35 Controversially 1979: That Was The Year That Was. Jan Leeming narrates a look back at key events in TV, film, showbusiness and politics, including Monty Python causing a storm of protest with Biblical parody The Life of Brian.
11.35 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
12.35 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
1.30 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.
3.30 Friends. (R) 4.20 Never Teach Your Wife to Drive. (R) 5.15 Great Artists. (R) 5.40 Entertainment News. 5.45 Peppa Pig. (R) 5.50 Paw Patrol. (R)
BBC Four
7.00 Lost Land of the Tiger 8.00 Ray Mears and Ewan McGregor: Extreme Jungle 9.00 Black Snow
10.45 Parkinson: The Orson Welles Interview 11.25 Parkinson: The Richard Burton Interview
ITV2
3.40 In for a Penny 4.10 Film: Dr Seuss’ The Lorax (2012) 5.55 Film: How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
8.00 Film: Shanghai Noon (2000)
10.15 Big Brother’s Biggest Best Bits 11.15 Family Guy ITV3
2.55 Midsomer Murders 11.00 Maigret – Dead Man ITV4
4.00 World of Sport 4.05 The Grand Fishing Adventure 5.10 River Monsters 5.40 Film: The Towering Inferno (1974) 9.00 English Football League Highlights
10.30 Film: Force of Execution (2013)
E4
2.30 Film: Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
4.20 The Big Bang Theory 7.20 Film: Men in Black II (2002) Sci-fi comedy sequel, starring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones. 9.00 Celebrity Gogglebox 10.00 Gogglebox Film4
2.25 Little Monsters (1989)
4.15 Now You See Me 2 (2016) 6.50 Maid in Manhattan (2002) Romantic comedy, with Jennifer Lopez and Ralph Fiennes. 9.00 Anna (2019) Action thriller, starring Sasha Luss. 11.20 Slice (2018)
6.40 Countryfile. (R) 7.35 Breakfast. 9.00 Weatherman Walking. (R) 9.30 Landward.
10.00 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites. 11.30 Rick Stein’s Seafood Odyssey. (R) 12.00
Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers.
(R) 12.15 MOTD Live Women’s Super League. Manchester City v Chelsea (Kick-off 12.30pm).
2.45 Gymnastics: World Championships. Further coverage of the second day of apparatus finals. 5.00 Super League.
6.00 Green Space, Dark Skies: Wales. (R)
6.30 Flog It! (R)
BBC2, 7.20pm
The former Desperate Housewives star has Mexican parents and her husband, businessman Jose Antonio Baston Patino, is from the country, so there’s a sense of her exploring her heritage and home about this new series. It’s a cross between a cookery show and a travelogue, with each episode following Longoria as she samples the cuisine in a different destination.
BBC Wales Today; Weather.
6.15 Countryfile. Hamza Yassin attends the Braemar Highland Gathering.
7.15 Strictly Come Dancing: The Results. The two lowestscoring couples contest the dance-off.
8.00 Antiques Roadshow. Fiona Bruce presents the show from Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff.
9.00 Boiling Point. It’s new menu day at Point North and expectations are high for the chefs.
10.00 BBC News; Weather.
10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.30 Match of the Day 2. The day’s Premier League action.
11.50 The Women’s Football Show.
12.35 Weather for the Week Ahead.
12.45 BBC News.
6.50 Weatherman Walking: Ridges, Rivers and the Far North Coast. (R)
7.20 Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico.
8.00 Big Little Journeys. New series. The adventures of six tiny animals as they voyage into the unknown.
9.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
9.30 Miriam Margolyes: Australia Unmasked. The actress tackles ageism on a journey through South Australia. Last in the series. (R)
10.30 Film: Licorice Pizza. (2021) Premiere. Romantic comedy, starring Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman.
12.35 Sign Zone: Question Time.
(R) 1.35 Claimed and Shamed. (R)
2.20 Ambulance. (R) 3.20 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Ainsley’s Food We Love. (R)
6.30 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R) 7.30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. (R)
9.25 ITV News. 9.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh.
11.30 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Japan v Argentina (Kick-off
12.00pm). 2.15 NFL Live. Buffalo Bills v Jacksonville Jaguars (Kickoff 2.30pm).
6.00 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals. Compilation of some of the show’s most dramatic endgames. (R)
6.30 ITV News; Weather.
6.45 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
6.55 Celebrity Catchphrase. With Phil Daniels, Steph McGovern and AJ Odudu. (R)
7.55 Beat The Chasers –Celebrity Special. With Rory Bremner, Dana, Carlton Cole and Claire Richards.
9.00 Big Brother: The Launch. New series. AJ Odudu and Will Best present the reboot of the reality contest.
10.30 ITV News; Weather.
10.45 Fresh Cuts. Alex Beresford investigates mental-health issues among black men.
11.45 The Savoy. (R)
12.45 English Football League Highlights. (R) 2.15 Winning Combination. (R) 3.05 Motorsport UK. (R) 3.55 Unwind. 5.10 Grand Slam Years: Ireland 2018. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw. 9.00 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R) 10.00 Jason Mohammad: Stadiymau’r Byd. (R) 11.00 Eryri: Pobol y Parc. (R) 12.00 Dan Do. (R) 12.30 Rygbi Pawb. (R) 1.15 Bwyd Epic Chris. (R) 1.45 Y ’Sgubor Flodau. (R) 2.45 Y Tyrchwyr gyda Iolo Williams. (R)
3.20 Cefn Gwlad. (R) 3.50 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R) 5.00 Sgorio. Wrexham Women v Cardiff City Women (Kick-off 5.10pm).
7.15 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.
7.30 Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol.
8.00 Ffermio. 9.00 Y Tad, Y Mab A’r Cor.
10.30 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 11.00 Goreuon Gwesty Aduniad. (R)
11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.20 Cheers. (R) 7.15 The King of Queens. (R) 8.05 The Simpsons. (R) 9.30 Sunday Brunch. 12.30 The Simpsons. (R)
3.00 The Great British Bake Off. (R)
4.30 Coastal Railways with Julie Walters. (R) 5.35 A Lake District Farm Shop. (R) 6.30 Channel 4 News. 7.00 Griff’s Canadian Adventure. (R) 8.00 Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker. 9.00 Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. 10.00 Gogglebox. (R) 11.00 Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix Highlights. 1.25 24 Hours in A&E. (R) 2.20 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.10 Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.20 Kirstie’s House of Craft. (R) 5.40-6.05 Beat the Chef. (R)
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.55 The Smurfs. (R) 10.05 SpongeBob SquarePants. (R) 10.20 Entertainment News. 10.30 NFL End Zone. 11.00 Friends. (R) 1.00
Police Interceptors. (R) 1.55 Film: The Hunt for Red October. (1990)
4.35 Film: Ocean’s Thirteen. (2007)
6.55 5 News Weekend. 7.00 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. India v Australia. Highlights of the group match from M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, India.
8.00 Hotel Benidorm: Fun-Loving Brits in the Sun. With the Benidorm Plaza full to bursting, and housekeeping pushed to their limits, brideto-be Hannah and her hen party are keen to check into their rooms to get the party started.
9.00 Inheritance Wars: Who Gets the Money? A widow who took on the full force of the Ministry of Defence. Last in the series.
10.00 The Big Sex Scam. 10.55 Strip: Getting Naked for Money. Documentary about a Los Angeles strip club.
11.55 Sex Made Millionaires: How Do They Do It? (R) 12.50 Entertainment News. 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 Queens of Pop: Aretha to Whitney. (R) 4.35 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.00
House Busters. (R) 5.30
Entertainment News. 5.35 Peppa Pig. (R) 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)
BBC Four
7.00 Gregory Doran Remembers –Shakespeare Live! from the RSC
7.15 Shakespeare Live! from the RSC 9.40 Much Ado About Nothing
ITV2
3.05 Film: Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween (2018)
4.55 Film: Despicable Me 3 (2017) 6.45 Film: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018) 9.00 Big Brother: The Launch 10.30 Big Brother: Late & Live 11.35 Family Guy
ITV3
2.10 Agatha Christie’s Marple 4.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Tonga v Romania (Kick-off 4.45pm). 7.00 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 8.00 Vera 10.00 Endeavour ITV4
10.45 Live British Touring Car Championship. The final meeting of the campaign from Brands Hatch. 6.30 The Chase Celebrity Special 7.30 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Fiji v Portugal (Kick-off 8.00pm). 10.30 The Grand Fishing Adventure 11.30 Film: Space Cowboys (2000)
E4
3.10 Film: Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008) 5.00 The Big Bang Theory 6.55 Film: Men in Black 3 (2012) 9.00 Film: Venom (2018) 11.05 Gogglebox Film4 12.45 The Ten Commandments (1956) 5.15 Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging (2008) 7.10 The Golden Child (1986) 9.00 Le Mans ’66 (2019)
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse.
(R) 8.00 Sign Zone: This Farming Life. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.
10.00 BBC News. 11.30 Politics Live Conference 2023. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads.
(R)
2.15 Wanted Down Under.
(R) 3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15 Serengeti III. (R)
5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With James Buckley, Amy Gledhill, Romilly Weeks and Gary Wilmot.
The Reckoning
BBC1, 9pm
Factual drama examining the crimes of Jimmy Savile, starring Steve Coogan and featuring testimony from his survivors. In the early 1960s, Savile became famous as a DJ in the dance halls of Leeds and Manchester, and was able to exploit this position. In an effort to legitimise his reputation, he also took advantage of his celebrity status to pursue a voluntary role at his local hospital.
7.30 EastEnders. Ben lashes out at Jay.
8.00 Pizza Boys: World Cup Adventure. The culinary tour of France concludes in Paris. Last in the series.
8.30 Scarlett’s Driving School. A self-confessed perfectionist wants to pass her test before her wedding.
9.00 The Reckoning. New series. Factual drama examining the crimes of Jimmy Savile.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Panorama.
11.10 Have I Got a Bit More News for You. Victoria Coren Mitchell guest hosts, with Carol Vorderman and Ignacio Lopez. (R)
11.55 The Graham Norton Show. (R)
12.45 Alan Carr’s Picture Slam. (R)
1.30 BBC News.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Fleur East chats to the couple eliminated from the competition.
7.00 The One Show. With Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas.
7.30 Mastermind. Specialist subjects include Syd Barrett and Federico Garcia Lorca.
8.00 Only Connect.
8.30 University Challenge.
9.00 Union with David Olusoga. How a new British identity was forged through almost constant war with France.
10.00 Sandylands.
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Film: Don’t Look Now. (1973) Supernatural thriller, with Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie.
1.05 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R)
2.00 Picasso: The Beauty and the Beast. (R) 3.00 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Suni struggles to process the truth. Chloe is sick with jealousy, while Sam is upset.
8.00 Coronation Street. Stephen plans his escape from the cobbles and the trail of dead bodies, unaware that the residents are putting together the pieces of a rather shocking jigsaw puzzle.
9.00 The Long Shadow. The investigation spreads to Bradford with the murder of another woman, a female police officer takes on dangerous undercover work, while danger is ever present for sex workers.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 Sharp End. Political discussion.
11.40 Peston.
12.30 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite.
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Adre. (R)
12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Ceffylau Cymru. (R) 1.30 Pen/Campwyr. (R)
2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: Happily Never After. (2022)
4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. Graeme Hall helps identical twins whose dogs are at odds. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. PC Ian Cosgrove heads to the scene of a hit-and-run. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 The Motorway. The M6 is shut down due to a flock of escaped sheep; 5 News Update.
9.00 Endurance: Race to the Pole with Ben Fogle. Ben and Dwayne Fields tackle the trials and tribulations faced by Ernest Shackleton on his Nimrod expedition, the explorer’s second foray into the great white wilderness.
10.00 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts. Doctor Dave needs to negotiate with the police. (R)
11.05 Ambulance: Code Red. (R) 12.00 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
1.00 Live NFL: Monday Night Football. Las Vegas Raiders v Green Bay Packers (Kick-off
(R)
2.10 Tipping Point. (R) 3.00 Waco Untold: The British Stories.
(R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.10 Tenable. (R)
10.00 My Dead Body. (R) 11.15 First Dates. (R) 12.15 Sex Rated. (R)
1.10 The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice. (R)
BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Doctors. 2.15 Money for Nothing. (R) 3.00 Escape to the Country. 3.45 The Repair Shop. 4.30 The Vintage French Farmhouse. 5.15 Pointless. Quiz, hosted by Alexander Armstrong. (R)
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
7.00 The One Show. With Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas.
Paddy McGuinness
Don’t Look Down for Su2C
Channel 4, 9.30pm
Host and team leader
Paddy McGuinness is joined by Beverley Callard, Anton Ferdinand, Kimberly Wyatt, Chris Hughes, David Ginola, Charley Boorman, GK Barry, Fats Timbo and Victoria Pendleton as they head to the Austrian Alps to learn to master the art of the highwire in aid of Stand Up to Cancer.
7.30 EastEnders. Ravi receives a text from Nugget.
8.00 Fake or Fortune? Fiona Bruce and art expert Philip Mould travel to France to investigate two pieces of art believed to be created by Camille Pissarro and Paul Cezanne.
9.00 The Reckoning. At the height of his fame, Jimmy Savile creates more opportunities for charity work to further conceal his abusive behaviour.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Rookie Nurses. (R)
11.10 The TikTok Effect. Evidence that unusual behaviour on TikTok has started spilling out into the real world. (R)
12.05 Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel. (R) 1.05 BBC News.
6.30 Money for Nothing. (R) 7.15
The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R)
8.00 Sign Zone: Expert Witness.
(R) 8.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.
10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics
Live. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45
Politics Live Conference 2023. 3.45
First Minister’s Questions. 4.45
This Wild Life. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. James Buckley, Amy Gledhill, Romilly Weeks and Gary Wilmot take part.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two.
7.00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. New series. With husband-and-wife comics Paul Merton and Suki Webster.
8.00 This Farming Life. Nikki and Ollie’s rabbit breeding programme bears fruit.
9.00 Why Sharks Attack. An investigation into recent strange shark behaviour following attacks in Egypt. (R)
10.00 Jailed: Inside Maghaberry Prison.
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Film: The Last Black Man in San Francisco. (2019) Drama, starring Jimmie Fails.
1.10 Sign Zone: Money for Nothing. (R) 1.55 DNA Family Secrets. (R) 2.55 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. (R)
3.25 This Is BBC Two.
6.30 Escape to the Country. (R)
7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.
10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics
Live. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45
Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Wanted Down
Under. (R) 3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15 Serengeti III. (R)
5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With James Buckley, Amy Gledhill, Romilly Weeks and Gary Wilmot.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two.
Celebrity Race Across the World
BBC1, 9pm
The intense competition is starting to take its toll as the teams leave western Europe behind. Leaders Harry Judd and his mum Emma learn the next checkpoint is Sarajevo, but the gruelling pace is about to catch up with Harry, who falls ill, while Emma is finally pushed to her limit. Meanwhile, Alex Beresford and his dad Noel take a more leisurely pace.
EastEnders. Things get nasty between Sharon and Keanu.
8.00 The Repair Shop. The team takes on two very well-loved dolls, a beaten-up 1950s drum kit with magical memories, a painted German toy box, and the oldest ever item to enter the barn. (R)
9.00 Celebrity Race Across the World. The teams leave western Europe and head to the next checkpoint in Sarajevo.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 BBC Wales Live.
11.10 Match of the Day Wales.
11.40 Film: Get Out. (2017) Thriller, starring Daniel Kaluuya.
1.20 BBC News.
7.00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. Geeta and Krishnan Guru-Murthy compete.
8.00 Nadiya’s Simple Spices.
8.30 Wynne’s Welsh 70s. (R)
9.00 DNA Family Secrets. A woman left wrapped in a plastic bag as a newborn wants to find her birth parents.
10.00 Moulin Rouge: Yes We CanCan!
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Unspun World with John Simpson.
11.45 Picasso: The Beauty and the Beast. (R)
12.45 Sign Zone: Garden Rescue.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.00 Emmerdale. A terrifying situation emerges for Mackenzie, Charity and Chloe.
8.00 The Martin Lewis Money Show Live: Britain Get Talking Special. Practical advice for anyone struggling to cope with their finances.
8.30 Susanna Reid: Can Britain Get Talking? A Tonight Special. A report on the rising number of school children suffering from poor mental health.
9.00 The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor. The arrival of Charles and Andrew’s wives.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 A Dog Called Laura. Martin Clunes explores the lives of Britain’s guide dogs. (R)
11.40 The Grand Fishing Adventure. (R)
12.30 The Chase. (R) 1.20 Tipping Point. (R) 2.10 Loose Women. (R)
3.00 Fresh Cuts. (R) 3.50 Unwind.
5.05 Tenable. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.25 Party Political Broadcast. By the Welsh Labour Party.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Chas realises she is in serious trouble.
8.00 Coronation Street. Sally starts to panic when Kevin tells her that Tim did not go to the match with him and Kirk, while Sarah breaks the news to the Platts of Stephen defrauding Audrey.
9.00 Payback. Lexie is left with no choice but to agree to help crime boss Cal Morris.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 Breaking Through with Zeze Millz. A one-off panel show celebrating Black British actors in the TV industry.
11.15 Sorry, I Didn’t Know. (R)
11.40 No Return. Kathy and Martin visit Noah in prison. (R)
12.30 The Chase. (R) 1.20 Tipping Point. (R) 2.10 Loose Women. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Bwyd Bach Shumana a Catrin. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R) 1.30 Cefn Gwlad. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: I Will Take Your Life! (2020)
4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Dogs Behaving (Very)
Badly. Graeme Hall helps a couple whose Border Collie will not let them leave the house without a marathon bout of barking, as well as a husky with a fear of stairs. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. England v Bangladesh.
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 The Yorkshire Vet. A cow with a newborn calf struggles to walk because of an infected toe; 5 News Update.
9.00 The Hotel Inspector. New series. Alex Polizzi meets a wannabe hotelier from losing everything before she’s even opened the door, as Claire tries to launch a bar and hotel in Redcar.
10.00 Wayne Couzens: Killer in Plain Sight. Documentary about the serving police officer who killed Sarah Everard in 2021. (R)
11.30 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
12.30 Traffic Cops. (R) 1.30
PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.30
(2020) 3.05 Partygate. (R) 4.20 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.10-6.05 The Great Home Transformation. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 11.00 Dysgu Gyda Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 1.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn
Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Ffermio. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R)
6.00 Ceffylau Cymru. (R) 6.30 Rownd a Rownd. (R)
7.00 Newyddion S4C.
7.25 Sgorio Rhyngwladol. Wales v Gibraltar (Kick-off 7.45pm).
10.00 Sage Todz: Y Neges Nid yr Iaith. (R)
10.45 Noson Lawen. (R)
11.45 Y Byd ar Bedwar. (R)
12.20 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R)
6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Chateau DIY. (R) 10.55 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed
Warship: Life at Sea. (R) 5.05 House Busters. (R) 5.30
Entertainment News. 5.35 Peppa Pig. (R) 5.45
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: Killer Design. (2022) 4.00
Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun.
5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. Graeme Hall takes on a cocker spaniel that loves to steal food. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Tesco: How Do They Really Do It? Cameras go behindthe-scenes in the giant supermarket chain.
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Norfolk and Suffolk: Country & Coast. A project to restore Norwich Cathedral’s organ nears completion; 5 News Update.
(R)
1.30 Clean It, Fix It. (R) 2.15 Union with David Olusoga. (R) 3.15
This Is BBC Two.
3.00 Ultra Processed Food: What Are We Eating? Tonight. (R) 3.25
Ainsley’s Good Mood Food. (R)
3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Tenable. (R)
2.10 Countdown.
A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 6.00 Four in a Bed. 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 Geordie Hospital. 9.00 Grand Designs.
10.00 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (R) 11.05 The Great British Bake Off. (R) 12.35 Taskmaster. (R) 1.30 Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker. (R)
2.25 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.15 Jimmy Doherty’s New Zealand Escape. (R)
9.00 Jay Blades: Midlands Through Time. New series. The presenter explores the extraordinary history of the West Midlands, and sheds a light on how much the country owes this often-overlooked part of England.
10.00 999: Critical Condition. (R)
11.05 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
12.05 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (R) 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 Warship: Life at Sea. (R) 3.50 The Funny Thing About Growing Up. (R) 4.40 Wildlife
Sam Reid
Interview with the Vampire BBC2, 9pm New series. In Dubai, 2022, journalist Daniel Molloy questions Louis de Pointe du Lac - and not for the first time, while in 1910 New Orleans, young Creole Louis encounters the enigmatic and magnetic Lestat. Lifeand death - would never be the same. Gothic horror based on Anne Rice's The Vampire Chronicles, starring Jacob Anderson and Sam Reid.
of Dan and Char’s wedding – which is just one week away. (R)
9.00 Soldier. As the training ramps up, the remaining infantry recruits are pushed to breaking point as they face tough discipline and exhausting physical tests.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Question Time. Fiona Bruce hosts the political debate from London.
11.40 Newscast.
12.10 BBC News.
6.30 Money for Nothing. (R) 7.15
The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R)
8.00 Sign Zone: Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. (R) 9.00
Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News.
12.15 Politics Live. 1.00
Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R)
2.15 Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00
Murder, Mystery and My Family.
(R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15
Cornwall: This Fishing Life. (R)
5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. James Buckley, Amy Gledhill, Romilly Weeks and Gary Wilmot take part.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Designer Vicky Gill reveals some of Saturday’s costumes.
7.00 The Warship: Tour of Duty. In the South China Sea, the warship launches antisubmarine helicopters. (R)
8.00 Saving Lives at Sea. Reports come in of a kayaker who has failed to make it back to shore.
9.00 Interview with the Vampire. New series. Gothic horror, starring Jacob Anderson.
10.05 No Activity. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Union with David Olusoga.
(R)
12.15 Sign Zone: Amazing Hotels:
Life Beyond the Lobby. (R) 1.15
Strictly Come Dancing. (R) 3.30
Strictly Come Dancing: The Results. (R) 4.10 This Is BBC Two.
6.30 Escape to the Country. (R)
7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics UK. 1.00 Impossible. (R)
1.45 Make Me a Dealer. (R) 2.30 Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family.
(R)
3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15
Cornwall: This Fishing Life. (R)
5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. James Buckley, Amy Gledhill, Romilly Weeks and Gary Wilmot take part.
Uncanny
BBC2, 9pm
Uncanny began life as a podcast by Danny Robins, a comedy writer whose interest in the paranormal became his professional life after he wrote and presented The Battersea Poltergeist for Radio 4 about a haunting in 1950s London. Robins was subsequently inundated with unsolicited emails from people detailing their own supernatural experiences.
7.30 Kiri’s TV Flashback. Kiri Pritchard-McLean finds funny clips revealing stereotypes around Welsh women. (R)
8.00 Would I Lie to You? With Raj Bisram, Deborah FrancesWhite, Stephen Mulhern and Jenny Ryan. (R)
8.30 Ghosts. Alison and Mike consider selling some land.
9.00 Have I Got News for You. Satirical quiz, guest hosted by Alexander Armstrong.
9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (R)
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 The Graham Norton Show. Guests include Laura Linney, Dawn French and London Hughes.
11.30 Blankety Blank. (R)
12.05 RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. (R)
1.15 BBC News.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Fleur East and the celebrity panel discuss tomorrow’s show.
7.00 Your Garden Made Perfect. Angela Scanlon returns with the garden makeover show. (R)
8.00 Gardeners’ World. Frances Tophill assesses the tomatoes in her upcycled greenhouse.
9.00 Uncanny. New series. Supernatural encounters, expert analysis, and investigations.
10.00 Red Dwarf. (R)
10.30 Newsnight. 11.00 Weather.
11.05 Film: Woman in Gold. (2015) Fact-based drama, starring Helen Mirren.
12.45 DNA Family Secrets. (R)
1.45 Sign Zone: Panorama. (R)
2.15 Saving Lives at Sea. (R) 3.15 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale.
8.00 Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards 2023. Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo host the annual award ceremony which honours and celebrates the nation’s unsung heroes.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor. The events that shaped the fortunes of the royal family, continuing with the arrival of Charles and Andrew’s wives – and the subsequent scandals wrought by their marriages. (R)
11.40 All Elite Wrestling: Rampage. Hard-hitting, high-flying wrestling action with many of AEW’s biggest stars, presented by Jim Ross, Excalibur and Tony Schiavone.
12.35 The Chase. (R) 1.25 Tipping Point. (R) 2.15 Loose Women. (R)
3.05 Grand Slam Years: Wales 2019. (R) 3.55 Unwind. 5.10 Tenable. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 12.30 Heno Aur. (R) 1.00 Sain Ffagan. (R) 1.30 Y Byd ar Bedwar. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00
Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05
Mike Phillips:
BBC Four
7.00 The Sky at Night: Question Time Special 8.00 Film: Henry V (1989) Shakespeare’s
6.00
Behaving (Very) Badly. A professional dog walker suffers a broken leg when her Afghan hound pulls her over. (R)
6.55 5 News Update. 7.00 Dirty Home Rescue. A cleaning team tackle a house in Telford. (R) 7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 The Dog Hospital with Graeme Hall. Two-year-old Labrador Willow has been rushed to the hospital; 5 News Update.
9.00 All Creatures Great and Small. Siegfried hires an experienced bookkeeper, but her efficient approach doesn’t suit everyone. James and Helen arrive at a decision, and a ferret presents a challenge.
10.00 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Australia v South Africa.
11.05 Skin A&E. (R) 12.05 Police Interceptors. (R) 1.00
PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00
Secrets of Pompeii’s Greatest Treasures. (R) 4.40 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.05 House Busters. (R) 5.30
Entertainment News. 5.35 Peppa Pig. (R) 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.00 Emmerdale. Cain and Caleb struggle to gain control, while Suni’s worst fears are confirmed.
8.00 Coronation Street. As the shocked residents realise that they have a murderer in their midst, the hunt is on to find Stephen before he can add to his death toll – or are they too late?
9.00 Barbara Knox at 90. The Coronation Street star celebrates her 90th birthday with Bradley Walsh, who has a host of surprises for her, including a tearful reunion with a long-time on-screen partner.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales.
10.45 Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards 2023. Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo host the annual award ceremony which honours and celebrates the nation’s unsung heroes. (R)
12.30 The NFL Show. 1.25 All Elite Wrestling: Collision. (R) 3.05 In the Shadow of Mary Seacole. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Tenable. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion
S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Dan Do. (R) 1.30 Trysorau Cymru: Tir, Tai a Chyfrinachau. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Noson Lawen. (R)
4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh.
6.00 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R)
6.25 Darllediad Gwleidyddol gan Llafur Cymru.
6.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R)
7.00 Heno.
7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
8.00 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023.
8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
9.00 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru 2023 – Llandudno.
10.00 Y Gêm.
10.30 Jonathan: Cwpan y Byd 2023. (R)
11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R)
6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Chateau DIY. (R) 10.55 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed Lunch. 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 6.00 Channel 4 News. 7.00 Live England International Football. 10.00 Gogglebox. 11.05 Big Fat Quiz of the Decade. (R) 12.55 England International Football. 1.50 Film: Rocks. (2019) 3.25 Come Dine with Me. (R)
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley.
12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40
5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: Finding Emma. (2021) 4.00
Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun.
5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. Graeme Hall meets a couple who are struggling to walk their dogs. (R)
6.55 5 News Update. 7.00 Shop Smart, Save Money. Angellica Bell and Ortis Deley help a football coach find some boots.
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. Susan is in Hampshire, where she explores HMS Victory in Portsmouth, visits the former home of Jane Austen and learns about a curious eating competition in New Alresford.
9.00 The Good Ship Murder. New series. Crime drama, starring Shayne Ward.
10.00 World’s Most Expensive Cruise.
11.05 Inside HMP Frankland: Evil Behind Bars. (R)
12.35 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
1.25 Entertainment News. 1.35
PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.40
Friends. (R) 4.30 The Railways That Built Britain with Chris Tarrant. (R) 5.15 House
AH, DEAR READER, gather ‘round and let me regale you with a tale of football, a tale spun with the whimsy of The Game Guru, where the boundaries of reality blur with the magic of FC 24! Imagine, if you will, a world where FIFA, that venerable institution, breathes its final sighs and transforms into the fantastical realm of EA Sports FC, or perhaps, as it may fondly be known, FC 24.
In this enchanting new universe, where pixels dance and players pirouette, the most marvelous of changes have taken root. Behold, the introduction of women players into the hallowed grounds of Ultimate Team! Picture this: Samantha Kerr of Chelsea’s women’s team, hand in foot with Christopher Nkunku of Chelsea’s men’s squad, creating a harmonious dance of genders, earning extra chemistry and weaving dreams that bridge the gap between reality and the virtual.
But hark, before we delve deeper into this wondrous tapestry, let us first journey through the whimsical alleys of FC 24 gameplay. Oh, what a shift it is! The pace, dear friend, has slowed to a delicious crawl, allowing players the luxury of time, time to explore their abilities, their PlayStyles! EA, in their wisdom, has adorned players with 34 distinct styles, each with a name as melodious as a sonnet: Jockey, Speed Dribble, First Touch Control – reminiscent of Madden 23’s X-Factors, you see. These styles, marked by icons of blue and orange, bring forth a kaleidoscope of possibilities.
Imagine the virtuoso Kevin de Bruyne, once merely good in FIFA 23, now a maestro orchestrating the game. His Pass Into Space Playstyle, an orange beacon of brilliance, transforms him into a virtuoso, crafting slide-rule deliveries to comrades with the precision of a master sculptor. And lo and behold,
these PlayStyles are not mere apparitions; they blend seamlessly with HyperMotion V, a magical dance of volumetric mo-cap, capturing the essence of real matches, creating a symphony where every sprint, every dribble, is a poetic movement.
But wait, there’s more! FC 24 is not just a solitary sonnet; it’s a grand ballad of team play. The players, now imbued with individuality, come together like notes in a harmonious melody. Picture a cerebral experience, reminiscent of Pro Evo’s golden days, where precision passes are executed with the grace of a ballet, and defenses are unraveled with the finesse of a master locksmith.
And let us not forget the spectacle! The presentation, my friends, is a feast for the eyes! Stats overlay the screen like tapestries, with 3D renderings of the last five shots, tired players highlighted like stars in the night sky. Referee views, commentator
appearances, and manager interviews weave a story so intricate, it’s as if you’ve stepped into a parallel universe where football transcends the confines of the screen.
But what of FUT, you inquire? Ah, fear not, for FUT has undergone a transformation, a breakthrough in equality that rivals the most epic of sagas. Female players, 1,600 strong, now grace the stage, dancing alongside their male counterparts. A realm where a 91-rated Sam Kerr is the equal of a 91-rated Karim Benzema! A step toward equality, a revolution that beckons players of all kinds to embrace this newfound harmony.
Yet, fret not, for in this fantastical land, you are the master of your destiny. Like a painter before a canvas, you choose the colors that adorn your team. If you wish for an allmale squad, so be it! The beauty of FC 24 lies in its boundless possibilities, where the only limit is the expanse of your imagination.
For up to date news please check our social network channels
Mae Theatr Felinfach yn edrych ymlaen yn fawr at groesawu perfformiad Saesneg o’r sioe un-dyn Carwyn ar 10 Hydref 2023.
Mae Carwyn yn gynhyrchiad Bale and Thomas mewn cydweithrediad â Theatr Torch, Theatr Felinfach a Theatrau RCT. Fel rhan o’r cydweithrediad, bydd y criw yn ymarfer yn Theatr Felinfach ac yn agor y sioe yn y Theatr ym mis Hydref cyn mynd ar y daith ledled Cymru.
“Braint yw cael croesawu Bale and Thomas i Theatr Felinfach unwaith eto wrth iddynt baratoi ar gyfer taith o’r ddrama Carwyn.
Roedd Carwyn James yn un o gewri Cymru, fel hyfforddwr rygbi disglair a blaengar a dyn a garai ei fro, ei iaith a’i wlad”
meddai Dwynwen Lloyd
Llywelyn, Pennaeth
Theatr Felinfach.
Bydd y sioe un-dyn gan y dramodydd Owen
Thomas yn adrodd stori
bwysig bywyd Carwyn
James 40 mlynedd ers ei farwolaeth gyda’r actor
Simon Nehan yn dod â
Carwyn yn fyw ar lwyfan.
Cynllunydd y sioe yw
Tegan Reg James a Ceri James yw’r cynllunydd golau.
Dywedodd Gareth
John Bale, Cyfarwyddwr
Carwyn: “Pleser enfawr yw cydweithio
â Theatr Felinfach ar y cynhyrchiad yma o Carwyn. Dwi di bod yn
teithio i’r theatr am dros
ugain mlynedd a wastad di ca’l croeso mawr yna.
Dwi’n gwybod fe fydd
pawb yn gweithio’n galed i sicrhau fod Carwyn yn
llwyddo fel sioe a thaith.
Dyw Felinfach ddim yn bell iawn o Rhydlewis –ardal oedd yn agos iawn i galon Carwyn. Mae e’n ‘neud sens felly i agor y cynhyrchiad yn y Theatr a’r ardal yma.”
Roedd Carwyn yn
ddyn oedd yn addoli
chwaraeon, diwylliant a gwleidyddiaeth, dyn oedd yn caru Cymru. Gwnaeth argraff arbennig ar ei wlad a’r iaith Gymraeg yn ystod ei fywyd.
Mae’r ddrama yma yn archwilio dyn a oedd yn fwy na chymeriad ym myd
rygbi. Athro, sylwebydd, hyfforddwr ac ysbïwr hyd yn oed.
Am ragor o wybodaeth ac am docynnau ewch i
wefan Theatr Felinfach theatrfelinfach.cymru neu cysylltwch â’r Swyddfa Docynnau ar 01570 470697
neu theatrfelinfach@ ceredigion.gov.uk rhwng
9:30yb a 4:30yp dydd Llun i ddydd Gwener.
MAE un o brosiectau
Prifysgol Aberystwyth sy’n darparu cymorth cyfreithiol yn rhad ac am ddim i gyn-filwyr wedi derbyn rhagor o gyllid gwerth £499,885 dros 3 blynedd oddi wrth Gronfa Gymunedol y Loteri Genedlaethol.
Yn rhan o Adran y Gyfraith a Throseddeg, fe sefydlwyd Cyswllt Cyfreithiol Cyn-filwyr yn
2015. Mae’r prosiect yn cynnig cymorth cyfreithiol, cyngor, a chyfeiriadau at arbenigwyr ar gyfer cynaelodau o’r lluoedd arfog
a’u teuluoedd.
Dywedodd Dr Ola
Olusanya o Adran y Gyfraith a Throseddeg, sy’n arwain y prosiect:
“Rwy wrth fy modd
bod prosiect Cyswllt
Cyfreithiol Cyn-filwyr
wedi derbyn tair blynedd
arall o gyllid gan y Loteri
Genedlaethol. Bydd hyn yn golygu y gallwn gynyddu’r gefnogaeth a ddarparwn i gyn-filwyr a’u teuluoedd.
“Mae’r prosiect hwn - y cyntaf o’i fath - yn cael effaith sylweddol ar fywydau pobl sydd ymhlith y rhai mwyaf bregus yn ein cymdeithas. Dros y blynyddoedd diwethaf, gwelsom fwyfwy o alw am gyngor cyfreithiol, yn enwedig ym meysydd troseddol, teulu a phlant, cyflogaeth ac ymgyfreitha sifil cyffredinol.
“Mae gan y rhan fwyaf sy’n defnyddio’r gwasanaeth gymysgedd o anghenion cymhleth, gan gynnwys cymorth iechyd meddwl, anghenion tai a phroblemau â pherthynas, a does dim hawl gan lawer ohonynt i gael cymorth cyfreithiol i’w helpu â’u problemau cyfreithiol.
“Ar hyn o bryd ymchwiliwn i’r effaith y mae’r gallu i ddefnyddio gwasanaethau cyfreithiol yn ei chael ar les seicolegol cyn-filwyr. Bwriadwn gyhoeddi canlyniadau’r gwaith hwn yn 2024.”
Mae Cyswllt Cyfreithiol Cyn-filwyr yn gweithio gyda 40 o sefydliadau partneriaethol ledled Cymru a’r DU, gan gynnwys y Lleng Brydeinig Frenhinol, Help for Heroes, GIG Cymru i Gyn-Filwyr, Alabaré Christian Care & Support, Woody’s Lodge, Byddin yr Iachawdwriaeth, a Chymdeithas y Milwyr,
y Morwyr, yr Awyrenwyr a’u Teuluoedd (SSAFA).
Dywedodd Rob Roffe, Pennaeth rhanbarth Canolbarth a’r Gorllewin yng Nghronfa Gymunedol y Loteri Genedlaethol yng Nghymru:
“Llongyfarchiadau i Brifysgol Aberystwyth a wnaeth gais llwyddiannus am grant o bron i hanner miliwn i
gefnogi Cyn-filwyr sy’n byw yng Nghymru am y tair blynedd nesaf.
“Dros dair blynedd, bydd y grŵp yn cynnig cyngor cyfreithiol yn rhad ac am ddim, gwasanaeth cyfeirio arbenigol, gwaith achos ac eiriolaeth i helpu i wella bywydau cyn-filwyr yng Nghymru.”
THE Ceredigion branch of the Farmers’ Union of Wales held a successful information evening for members on the agricultural water pollution regulations facing the farming industry (NVZ regulations).
The meeting, which was held at Aberaeron Rugby club, heard from FUW Senior Policy and Communications Officer Gareth Parry, who summarised and
discussed the Control of Agricultural Pollution regulations; as well as Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration who discussed planning, the increase in agricultural planning applications and the problems caused by phosphate management in Ceredigion. Dr Iwan Owen, a former lecturer from Aberystwyth
University, addressed the management of nitrates, soil and grassland.
The evening concluded with a question and answer session and members asked pertinent questions, sparking a varied discussion.
FUW Ceredigion Deputy County Executive Officer Dafi Jones said:
“I thank our speakers for their informative and
valuable contributions.
Farmers in Wales now also have to create and keep risk maps, store organic manure (other than slurry) in compliance with Welsh Government regulations, with heaps stored on farmyards under cover or in temporary field sites, create Nutrient Management Plans, and record all applications, restrict nutrient applications to official crop limits and keep
records of all imports and exports of manure.
“I’d like to therefore remind our members that we offer support and assistance. If you need help with the workbook to ensure your records are compliant with the legislation, need risk maps or need advice on any changes to legislation and what the requirements are on your business, please call into the office or give us a ring.”
PGI Welsh Lamb is about to score a “top try” award at this month’s Rugby World Cup as thousands of fans are expected to turn up to try, try and try again the world’s best premium red meat at key locations across France.
A roadshow, featuring the cooking of Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion
Wales’ (HCC) Consumer Executive Elwen Roberts, is offering a scrum of supporters at key venues the chance to try out a series of tempting dishes to help celebrate Wales’ involvement in the tournament- and link up to a year-long campaignWales in France- to boost relationships between Welsh and French food businesses.
“Whatever the result on the field, this broad Welsh food initiative will make sure that Wales is the winner overall,” said Laura Pickup, HCC’s Head of
Strategic Marketing and Connections. “Wales in France is a broad celebration of cultural, business and sporting events designed to strengthen existing links between the two
countries.
“On the red meat front, France is also our major overseas marketand so this a wonderful chance to harness mutual sporting interest and build on our great
business relationship.”
Welsh Lamb dishes were to feature at three civic events in Lyon, Nantes and Paris. Lyon, considered the “gastrocapital of France”, staged a networking reception
hosted by Welsh Government Finance and Local Government Minister Rebecca Evans at the Cite Internationale de la Gastronomie, the day after the WalesAustralia game at Lyon’s
OL Stadium. Welsh Lamb was also in pride of place in a food and drink showcase that brought together Welsh food and drink exporters with around 200 local invitees.
Next up is a Festival of Rugby reception hosted at the British Embassy Paris on October 5, where some 400 attendees will sample food from the four home nations- including Welsh Lamb- and the next day, Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford will host a reception at the Maison de l’Europe, Nantes for an expected 150 attendees.
“These events will help us to further project Welsh Lamb’s sustainability credentials- and its great taste- to press, buyers and customers alike and they will help to push open the door further for Welsh exporters to seek to follow up in the future,” said Ms Pickup.
THE Carmarthen branch of the Farmers’ Union of Wales has elected Ann Davies, who was born and raised in Llanarthne where she farms a tenanted dairy unit with her husband Gareth, as its new chairperson.
Mrs Davies takes over the chairmanship from Phil Jones, who served the branch as its chair for 4 years.
he is mother to three daughters, and grandmother of six. Until her appointment as County Councillor for Llanddarog and Llanarthne parishes in 2017 she was a Peripatetic Music Teacher with Carmarthenshire County Council, but now co-runs Cwtsh y Clos children’s nursery with her daughter Gwenllian.
She is very active in her community, a pastor and organist at Cefnberach MC Chapel.
She is also a Member of Llanarthne Community Council and was one of the founders of the new Hall which was built on budget and on time in 2008. She is the current chairman of the Hall and has successfully built a new extension again within time and funding.
Her love of music ensures that she regularly organises Welsh evenings in the area and gets bands and artists from across Wales to Llanarthne.
Following her appointment as County Councillor for Llanddarog Ward Ann is now a member of cabinet with responsibilities for Rural Affairs, Planning Policy and Community Cohesion.
Since 2022, she has been a member of the South Wales Corporate Joint Committee on Strategic Planning. Ann also represents Carmarthenshire on the Welsh
Local Government Association’s Rural Committee and Equalities Committee.
Speaking about her appointment as the FUW Carmarthenshire county chairperson, she said:
“I would first like to thank Phil Jones for the tremendous work he has done in his role as chair. They are big
shoes to fill!
“I’m honoured that our members have chosen me to represent them here in Carmarthenshire and I look forward to working alongside other FUW officials to ensure that we have thriving, sustainable, family farms across Wales for generations to come.”
The Farmers’ Union of Wales has repeated its concerns that there is still no clarity around the budget available for the Habitat Wales scheme, which launched on Friday 29 September 2023.
The scheme replaces the former Glastir scheme and it is understood that more than 17,000 Welsh farmers may be eligible to apply for the scheme.
FUW President Ian Rickman said:
“We are extremely concerned by the lack of clarity on the budget available. The uncertainty for farming business is immense and no business should be expected to operate under such circumstances.
“While those
currently with Glastir contracts will be prioritised for contracts, the confirmed payment rates are around 45 per cent lower on average than the payments for habitat land under Glastir Advanced.
“Reduced payment rates along with the loss of whole farm management payments and support for capital works means that those currently in Glastir will
receive significantly smaller payments next year if they decide to enter the scheme.
“In addition, due to time constraints, the Welsh Government will not have the ability to deal with mapping issues or offer a second round of contracts beyond 1 January 2024, even if the budget allowed.”
While the FUW understands the
pressures on the rural development budget, not least as a result of cuts made by the UK Government, it is essential that the Habitat Wales Scheme receives at least as much funding as the schemes it will replace.
Members who are concerned about the application forms are encouraged to speak to their local county office.
DURING the summer the Welsh Government announced that Glastir Advanced, Glastir Commons and Glastir Organic contracts would not be extended beyond December this year, and that all Welsh farmers would instead be offered the option to sign up to a 12 month whole farm scheme focusing on habitat land. Members know that we were extremely concerned by the announcement, especially as Wales has some 3,000 farms in these environmental agreements that will now come to an end. Some of those have been in such agreements for thirty years, and all will have changed their farming practices and stock numbers to cope with the scheme rules.
As such, this announcement raised grave concerns for thousands of farming families, not only in terms of their financial viability but also with regard to how the Welsh Government will implement such a scheme over such a short period of time. Last week the announcement was made that the expression of interest window for the Habitat Wales Scheme will open on Friday 29 September with 12 month contracts being offered, starting from 1 January 2024.
The scheme will offer alternative support to all eligible farmers including farmers who were part of the Glastir Scheme. The Government has not confirmed the content of the guidance document yet, but we hope that more information will be released soon.
There are currently some 2,100 Glastir Advanced contract holders and more than 450 Glastir Organic contract holders, as well as 180 Glastir common land agreements
involving vast numbers of commoners. It’s understood that more than 17,000 Welsh farmers may be eligible to apply for the new interim scheme this autumn, however, there is still no detail in regards to budget.
While the FUW understands the budgetary pressures on the rural development budget, given the Welsh Government’s stated commitment to sustainable farming, enshrined in Wales’ first Agriculture Act, it is essential that the new interim scheme receives at least as much funding as the schemes it replaces.
We also sympathise with the Welsh Government over the pressures that UK Government cuts to our farm and rural development budget have caused. In successive announcements from December 2019, the UK Government announced cuts which add up to losses of more than £200 million for Welsh farmers and rural development.
This was a complete betrayal of the promises made in the run up to the Brexit referendum and the 2019 Conservative manifesto, and we continue to maintain that that money and our future budgets should be restored to what they would have been had we remained members of the EU.
Going forward, there will now be a period of 6 weeks available to show interest in this scheme and we strongly suggest that if you are interested, to contact your local Union office. FUW members will receive the service free as part of their membership. If you’d like to join in order to receive this support please make an appointment with your local FUW to discuss the scheme.
matched with loving homes.
The dire straits are palpable in stories like that of Harry, a six-yearold lurcher crossbreed, who arrived at RSPCA Bryn-Y-Maen Animal Centre in an emaciated condition and rife with scars. Clare Jones, a representative from the centre, remarked, “In RSPCA care, he has undergone a remarkable transformation. Now, our most heartfelt wish is to find Harry a forever home where he can experience unbridled comfort and love.”
AS ANIMAL rescue centres across the UK grapple with burgeoning pressures stemming from a notable 25% decrease in rehoming at RSPCA Cymru’s national centres in Newport and Bryn-Y-Maen, the nation finds itself ensnared in the throes
of the most critical rehoming crisis in recent years. Statistics poignantly illustrate that while these centres successfully rehomed 405 animals in 2022, it starkly contrasted with the 542 animals rehomed the previous year, underscoring a jarring reality that
requires immediate attention.
Revealing figures indicate that this crisis isn’t localized; with the number of animals being adopted across England and Wales plummeting by 5% from 2021 to 2022, translating to 25,535 animals in 2022 compared to 26,945 in the preceding year. Astonishingly, this represents a catastrophic 34% decline in rehoming rates from 2019 when 39,178 animals found new homes, rendering visible a deeply worrying trajectory.
SAgainst the backdrop of overflowing rescue centres and branches — described by insiders as “full to bursting” — a worrying trend is surfacing. The RSPCA observed a 6% surge in the number of dogs, and a 4% rise in the number of cats brought into care between 2021 and 2022. Moreover, amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty, the number of calls about abandoned or unwanted animals has notably spiked, from 8,551 in the first six
months of 2022, to 9,748 already this year.
Simultaneously, a recent YouGov survey delineated a troubling mindset among the UK populace, with 72% affirming they harboured no plans to adopt a new pet. This bleak revelation poses a significant quandary for organisations like the RSPCA, already stretched to their limits.
In an exclusive conversation with Samantha Gaines, Head of Companion Animals at the RSPCA, she stated: “The situation is reaching a critical tipping point. While we are incredibly grateful to our adopters, the harsh reality is that the number of animals being taken into our care significantly outweighs those being adopted.”
In a determined bid to mitigate this crisis, the RSPCA has launched “Adoptober”, a monthlong campaign geared towards championing the cause of rescue pets, and illuminating the desperate plight of numerous animals waiting to be
A similar story unfolds at Newport, where staff are ardently trying to find a permanent home for an 11-year-old Jack Russell named Shiloh. Despite her age, she brims with energy and enthusiasm, awaiting a family that can reciprocate her affection.
“Adoptober” is not merely a campaign but a crucial endeavour to stave off an exacerbating crisis.
Samantha urged, “While our frontline rescuers and animal care teams will persist in being there for every animal, it’s pivotal that we garner the support of animal lovers to ensure that as many animals as possible are granted a second chance at a happy life with compassionate adopters.”
The RSPCA encourages those who can, to consider adopting, and for those who cannot, to support in alternative ways such as sharing the message, donating, or volunteering. Visit the RSPCA’s “Find A Pet” to explore potential new family members waiting for their perfect match. Alternatively, donations to support the RSPCA’s vital work can be made online or by calling 0300 123 8181.
their education in an inclusive environment. The sensory room provides opportunities for pupils to relax and the teaching rooms accommodate the needs of pupils with autism. There are specific areas where they can develop awareness of their emotions and areas for learning, research and playing.
“The outer area is a place for the pupils to explore the world around them in a way that is completely safe for them. In a short time, the pupils have settled into the new classes and made huge progress in their development.
“The resource also allows us to offer expertise and provision to pupils with autism through the medium of Welsh, which is absolutely vital for Welsh-speaking families and children in the area.”
£20m i wella mannau dysgu i ddysgwyr ag
During a visit to Ysgol y Bedol in
Carmarthenshire, the Minister for Education and the Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, announced the £20m for schools
to transform the experiences of disabled children and those with additional learning needs.
The £20m of capital
funding for 2023-24 is allocated to improve the inclusivity of learning environments, create quiet or sensory areas, upgrade or purchase new equipment such as specialist sensory aids, and for works to improve additional learning provision through the medium of Welsh.
This is in addition to the £20m of capital funding the Welsh Government invested in 2022-23 to support disabled learners and those with additional learning needs.
Ysgol y Bedol in Garnant, Carmarthenshire used the grant of £120,000 in 2022-23 to develop a new sensory room and two classrooms specifically equipped to meet the needs of pupils with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as a new outdoor playing area.
Gethin Richards, Headteacher at Ysgol y Bedol, said:
“This development has ensured that our pupils have access to
The Minister for Education and the Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles said: “This £20m investment will lead to a real difference for disabled learners, and those with additional learning needs, by making sure that our schools are accessible, and have the facilities to support inclusive learning.
“Every child in Wales deserves access to high quality education. I want to make sure every learner can fulfil their potential.”
The investment will support the implementation of education reforms in Wales, including the Additional Learning Needs Act, the Curriculum for Wales and the aim to increase the number of Welsh speakers.
Local authorities will determine the improvements to schools and settings based on local need.
ONE in three UK motorists have given a nickname to their car – based on its registration plate, colour, or the make and mode.
SAnd 34 per cent of nickname-givers go as far as to say cars without a light-hearted moniker are ‘missing something’.
Among te comical car nicknames British motorists have adopted include The Beast, The Flying Banana – and Flo – because its plate started with FL0.
The poll of 1,500 motorists found 32 per cent believe a car can have ‘a real personality’.
The research was commissioned by Volkswagen ahead of National Name Your Car Day on Monday 2 October, with further insight gained via a social media campaign. The manufacturer has arguably one of the most famous named cars of all time – a Beetle known as Herbie: The Love Bug.
The brand also revealed data of some of the most common names
British VW owners use for their vehicles, including ‘Tiggy’ or ‘Tig’ for a Tiguan, and an ID.5 named Idris.
Many respondents took inspiration from TV or movies, with one naming their vehicle ‘Gandalf the Grey Golf,’ while another opted for ‘Pamela Vanderson’.
Fiona Jones, Social Media Manager at Volkswagen UK, said: “Naming your car isn’t just a tradition, it’s a celebration of the bond you share – and it’s clear from all the feedback we’ve seen on our social media channels that Volkswagen owners really love their cars.
“Every car has a story and giving it a nickname somehow makes it more human. It’s a companion and a real part of the family. We’ve always known we have a strong fanbase, but it’s been particularly heart-warming to see so many stories coming through from owners during this project.”
The research found 31 per cent of nickname-
givers will administer one to their car as soon as they get it. But 37 per cent will give it a few weeks and wait for inspiration to present itself as they get to know their new pride and joy.
More than six in 10 (65 per cent) even feel more protective of their vehicle, once they’ve given it a name to know it by, with 70 per cent admitting they often think back about old cars they owned in the past, and the quirky nicknames they had.
To give people inspiration for their own car names, Volkswagen has produced an Instagram filter at @ VolkswagenUK that lets you scroll through a list of common nicknames until you find one that fits your motor.
Jones added: “Your car is more than just a machine; it’s clear to see from how many car owners bestow a nickname on their car how dear to the nation’s hearts cars can become. So, if your four-wheeled friend doesn’t have a nickname yet, this checklist for inspiration
could help you come up with one.”
Sue Smith, 49, from Porthcawl, South Wales is an avid nicknamer of cars. She commented: “Every car we’ve owned has had a name - my husband’s car when we met was Emily the Escort, our daughter Emily is named after her.
“A G-plate 1.8l diesel automatic was named after my grandmother, Dorothy, as she had been her car - when we got our first Passat my husband kept calling her Dotty which we changed to Potty.
She continues: “I’ve always given my cars names and talked to them. It was always a dream to own a Beetle - they are classic cars and I’ve wanted one ever since watching the Herbie movies in the 70s.
“Kitty was my belated 40th birthday after a terrible year when our then two-year-old Tommy was diagnosed with cancer on his second birthday. After
nearly a year of chemo and a major spinal op we felt we could celebrate at last and I ordered my dream car. Tommie insisted she was called Kitty, so I could hardly refuse.”
10 BRIT COMEDY CAR NICKNAMES:
The Mystery Mark Flo
The Flying Banana
Deeney Bumble
Noddy
The Beast
Kentucky Fried Ostrich
Dreadnought Hotty Totty
BRITS’ TOP 10 INSPIRATIONS FOR CAR NICKNAMES:
Its paint colour
Its model/brand
A celebrity
A fictional character
Its size
Alliteration
Rhyme
Its license plate
letters/numbers
Friends Family
RESULTS from the largest ever review of clinical trials in cancer screening, prevention, and early detection (SPED) have been published.
HThe review, published in BMC Cancer and funded by the National Cancer Research Institute, found that 61% of all SPED trials focused on just three cancer types – colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer. This compares with 6.4% in lung cancer and 1.8% in liver cancer, which are responsible for 26.3% of global cancer deaths compared with 19.3% for colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer.
HResearchers identified areas of unmet needs around the world to highlight where more research and funding is needed. 88% of all SPED trials were conducted in North America, Europe, or Asia, with a lack of trials conducted in Africa and South America and a very low number of trials
per head of population In Asia.
Results also highlighted that significant disparities exist between the proportion of SPED trials for certain cancer types and their global burden of disease. For example, colorectal cancer accounted for 32.9% of all SPED trials and 9.4% of global cancer deaths, whilst gastric cancers accounted for 1.5% of SPED trials and 7.7% of global cancer deaths.
This study, led by researchers at the universities of Nottingham and Manchester, involved researchers from seven different universities across England and Scotland.
Dr Emma O’Dowd, Consultant Respiratory Physician and Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, says: “Cancer is the most common cause of death and disability in the UK and the second most
common cause globally. Global annual cancer incidence is forecast to rise to 27.5 million by 2040, a 62% increase from 2018. For most cancers, prevention and early detection are the most effective ways of reducing mortality.
“We looked at all trials published between 2007 and 2020 covering cancer screening, prevention, and early diagnosis to map what research had been done by cancer type, trial focus and geographical area, and to highlight research gaps.
“Over 117,000 papers were identified, and 2888 trials were included. There were disparities in terms of geographical location, type of research conducted and a clear focus on a small number of cancer types. We hope that this important piece of work can be used to guide and prioritise future trial funding.”
Dr Samuel Merriel, GP and NIHR Academic
Clinical Lecturer at the University of Manchester, added: “There are finite resources that governments can allocate for cancer healthcare and a limited amount of money available for cancer research. Until now there has not been a detailed summary of all the studies of cancer prevention, cancer screening, and earlier detection of cancer.
“We hope that these findings and the database of studies we have generated can be used by policymakers, healthcare commissioners, and cancer research funders to address the disparities in cancer screening, prevention, and early diagnosis trials.”
Dr Elizabeth Roundhill, Research Fellow in the School of Medicine, University of Leeds, comments: “Our research has revealed that even though lung and liver cancers together cause more than a
quarter of cancer deaths worldwide, they are less likely to be examined in screening, prevention and early diagnosis (SPED) trials. We also found there was a distinct lack of trials in cancers common in children and young people including sarcomas, blood cancers and brain tumours.
“Importantly, only 12% of SPED cancer trials have taken place in the Global South, meaning that the benefits of implementing SPED interventions in some of the world’s most populous regions remain unknown. With almost half of all cancers in the UK having a potentially preventable cause, this work calls for a greater focus on SPED research, including in the UK. We hope that these findings will encourage funders, policy makers and researchers to target resources towards addressing these major health inequalities in the future.”
This month, St John Ambulance Cymru are highlighting the difference a gift in your will can make to the charity. Your will is so important, it ensures that your money and belongings go to the people and the causes you care about. St John Ambulance Cymru want the people of Wales to know that remembering the charity in your will means leaving a lifesaving legacy behind you.
St John Ambulance Cymru have partnered with two will writing organisations; Guardian Angel and National Free Wills Network to make this process easier. If you would prefer to write or amend your will from the comfort of your own home, then Guardian Angel allows you to do so online. Or if writing your will in person with your nearest trusted solicitor is your preference, then National Free Wills Network is the perfect
option.
Gwen’s father, Ted, left St John Ambulance Cymru a gift in his will. Gwen explains; “My father Edward (Ted) was a proud member of St John for over 45 years. His service gave him a purpose, skills and lifelong friendships.”
“First aid is a skill for life and he was determined to leave something in his will to help continue the good work of St John Ambulance Cymru.”
Donations like Ted’s support the charity’s free first aid demonstrations in schools and community groups, vital first aid cover at events and educational youth programmes for young people aged 5-17 across Wales. Legacy funds help the charity make communities a safer place for all, by creating more potential lifesavers on the streets of Wales.
When Craig had a heart attack at the Red Arrow Show in Swansea earlier this
year, St John Ambulance Cymru volunteers delivered lifesaving first aid care. Due to the quick intervention of volunteers, including their prompt diagnosis, transport to hospital and communication with NHS staff, Craig received the care he needed.
“If it was not for the team effort, knowledge, technology, training and professionalism of St John Ambulance Cymru, who knows where I would be now” Craig said.
St John Ambulance Cymru are hoping that the people of Wales consider them in their will, so they can continue to train more lifesaving volunteers like those who treated Craig.
If you’d like to find out more information about St John Ambulance Cymru’s partnership with Guardian Angel and National Free Wills Network throughout October, please visit www.sjacymru.org.uk/en/ page/leave-a-gift-in-yourwill.
Earlier this year, Miss Maria Battle, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board shared her intention to retire at the end of her tenure.
Miss Battle explains:
“My term as Chair of Hywel Dda came to an end in August this year, but to ensure continuity of the role as I step into retirement, I have, in discussion with the Minister for Health and Social Services, Eluned Morgan MS, agreed that I will stay in post as Chair until the end of October 2023.”
“It has been an honour to serve as Chair of the Health Board particularly during the global pandemic, and to work alongside our dedicated staff and Board Members who work tirelessly every day to ensure the health and care of our patients and population and to deliver our ambitious strategy.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for the NHS and especially in Hywel Dda. We are doing all we can to serve our population and at the same time to push for the delivery of our strategy, which includes a new urgent and planned care hospital we so need, especially with the RAAC issues in Withybush Hospital and the deteriorating condition of Glangwili Hospital.
“I encourage individuals who are interested in supporting the future ambitions of our Health Board and making a difference to apply for the position of Chair.”
Maria has had a long and illustrious career and joined Hywel Dda as Chair in 2019, following eight years as Chair of Cardiff and the Vale University Health Board.
Board Chief Executive, said: “Working with Maria has been a pleasure – she has served our population and supported our staff with utmost dignity and grace and has always had kindness at her core. We will miss her leadership and her ability to connect with all members of our community, as well as our staff and patients.
“Thank you, Maria, for all you have done to lead our health board and the communities of mid and west Wales –everyone at Hywel Dda wishes you well as you step into retirement.”
Steve Moore,
Hywel Dda University HealthThe appointment of Independent Board Members to health boards are public appointments by Welsh Government. Individuals interested in applying for the role of Chair are encouraged to apply at: Public AppointmentsWelsh Government (tal. net)
IN A DYNAMIC reshuffle of spatial design, The Crown Estate has rethought its strategies in the Celtic Sea, championing a shift from four down to three offshore wind project sites and bolstering its capacity from 4GW to 4.5GW. This move has emerged as a direct response to market feedback from developers expressing spacerelated concerns and it follows the initial plans laid out in July.
Jess Hooper, the Director of RenewableUK Cymru, weighed in on the implications of this change during a recent Q&A session. Hooper elucidates that while The Crown Estate did present several potential configurations in their original announcement, the subsequent feedback nudged them towards the revised design. The scaling back to three sites, she explains, responds to developer’s apprehensions regarding spatial constraints and potential impacts on buffer zones and consenting challenges.
This alteration, however, does stir the waters of frustration among developers who might have been poised
to bid for and potentially secure two sites. They had been banking on benefiting from certain economies of scale and increased supply chain engagement and port negotiation opportunities. Nevertheless, by ensuring a minimum of three winning developers, The Crown Estate aims to sidestep the creation of an unfair monopoly and instead spur heightened competition, a move anticipated to be fruitful for supply chain
companies and ports alike.
The decision to nudge the capacity from 4GW to 4.5GW is, in Hooper’s eyes, a cautious yet wise one. Rather than viewing it as a target, she perceives it as a ceiling, permitting developers to stretch their ambitions within this bracket. However, whether the additional capacity is practically attainable will
be subject to numerous factors, including spatial scenarios and wake effects, since these will inevitably influence yield.
Looking to the horizon, developers are likely to be hungrily awaiting further clarity from The Crown Estate, particularly concerning its hinted-at appetite for risk-sharing. They will be keen to comprehend
how the entity plans to bolster development, whether that be through infrastructure engagement or via direct risk-sharing mechanisms. With these developments employing new technology in a novel geographical area, The Crown Estate is diligently exploring what tools it might wield to assist developers amidst these amplified constraints.
Moreover, whilst space constraints from the UK government in this territory have now been fully addressed, developers, ports, and supply chain companies are eager to garner clarity regarding the future pipeline beyond the 4.5GW mark, recognising the essentiality of prolonged opportunity and lead time to secure investment.
Despite the prevailing delays eroding chances of attaining UK or Welsh content from this leasing round in the Celtic Sea, the Celtic Sea Developer Alliance remains steadfastly committed, illustrating unabated ambition for the region. The Alliance anticipates a surge of engagement in the opportunity at the imminent conference, Future Energy Wales, where it will maintain a predominant position in the programme and several side events will spotlight the skills and supply chain opportunity presented by the Celtic Sea.
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has opened a second round inviting interested organisations to apply for funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
UKSPF is available during the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years only – and for projects across the county.
Projects must deliver activity that is in line with the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Prospectus and align with one of these investment priorities:
• Communities and
Place
• Supporting Local Business
• People and Skills
More information on each of these is contained in the Regional Investment Plan.
With at least £1.67m available, Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, Councillor Alec Cormack, said: “We’re looking forward to receiving good quality applications that will be able to deliver a wide range of projects to benefit Pembrokeshire’s
people, communities and businesses.”
Applicants must carefully check whether they should apply for SPF under this Invitation to Bid, or a separate grant scheme under one of the Anchor schemes which include Business, Community and Placemaking grants.
There is more information available on the Council’s website.
Submitting an Application for Funding: Applications must be submitted using the updated version of the
Pembrokeshire UK Shared Prosperity Fund Application Form included in SPF information online. Bids submitted in any other format will not be accepted.
Applications must be submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council using this email address: spf@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk.
This application round is now live and applications must be submitted by 11:59pm on Sunday, 15 October 2023.
This is an absolute deadline and applications
received after this will not be accepted.
If you’re not sure how best to secure the UKSPF funding you need to deliver your project, a flowchart has been produced that will help you navigate the various routes through the programme.
This and all other information, including how applications will be assessed, is available on the Council’s website.
There are also links to the UK Government’s webpages with further information about the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
positive experiences for both staff and patrons of the establishments with which he has been associated.
The recognition from the Welsh Hospitality Awards acknowledges not only his lengthy and impactful career but also his notable influence within the industry, particularly in the Pembrokeshire region.
ANDY STIRLING, General Manager of Wolfscastle Country Spa Hotel & Restaurant, has been named ‘General Manager of the Year’ at the Welsh Hospitality Awards. The awards ceremony took place at the Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel and Spa on 2nd October, where Mr. Stirling was recognised for his
significant contributions to the hospitality industry. Stirling, who has worked in the sector for 64 years, has become known for his commitment to supporting young professionals, staff, customers, and suppliers alike throughout his extensive career. He has demonstrated a steadfast passion for the industry, as well as a consistent dedication to ensuring
Wolfscastle Country Spa Hotel & Restaurant, a family-run establishment located in Pembrokeshire, now celebrates its General Manager’s accomplishment, marking a significant moment in its own history, as well as in Mr. Stirling’s distinguished career. This achievement does not only reflect on Stirling himself but also places a spotlight on the establishment and the local community.
In summary, Andy Stirling’s recognition as ‘General Manager
of the Year’ symbolises a culmination of decades of dedication and substantial contributions to the
hospitality sector. The accolade brings honour to both Mr. Stirling and the Wolfscastle Country Spa Hotel &
Restaurant, affirming the establishment’s place in the sphere of hospitality excellence within Wales.
FAIR DEAL See last Friday’s Herald for the first part.
A fair access to good public services and a strong social safety net.
Every child deserves the best possible start in life. Everyone should receive the care they need when they are ill or frail, and a helping hand when they fall on tough times. Liberal Democrats believe that an active state is essential to empower people and provide the support they need.
That means a government which helps struggling families and pensioners when they face a cost-of-living crisis, rather than one which plunges them into poverty. We understand that education is the key to opportunity and the best possible investment in our country’s future. We cherish the NHS, a Liberal invention and one of the UK’s proudest achievements.
A flourishing environment, with fair access to nature for all.
SEveryone should be able to enjoy the benefits of our wonderful natural environment, and our children should inherit the future they deserve. The climate and nature emergencies are the most pressing threats to prosperity facing the UK and the world.
We must act now: investing in green technologies and skills training, cutting air and water pollution, and taking a new approach to farming and the countryside. The UK can lead the world with innovation and ingenuity, while boosting the economy and enhancing everyone’s quality of life.
A strong United Kingdom and a fair international order
Liberal Democrats are proud internationalists. We believe that our country and our people thrive when we are open and outwardlooking. The UK can be an incredible force for good when it stands tall on the world stage, championing the values of equality, democracy, human rights
W ITH ANDREW LYEand the rule of law. Both the Covid pandemic and Vladimir Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine show that events beyond Britain’s borders inevitably become our concern.
We are passionate about close BritishEuropean cooperation, which benefits us and our allies. While we support a longer-term objective of EU membership, we recognise that the Conservatives have damaged trust in the UK so badly that there is a lot of work to do before that is possible. We have therefore set out a comprehensive step-bystep plan to rebuild our ties of trade, trust and friendship with our nearest neighbours – ties that can only be built back gradually over time.
A truly fair democracy, where everyone’s rights are respected and individuals and communities are empowered.
Every person matters. Every life is precious. Liberal Democrats believe that basic rights and dignity are the birthright of every individual, to be respected, cherished and enhanced. We want to shift more power out of the centre in Whitehall, so local decisions are made by and for the people and communities they affect. We want to break up concentrations of power, and put real power in everyone’s hands.
For a hundred years, Liberals and Liberal Democrats have been fighting for fair votes, to give everyone equal power in our democracy and hold all Members of Parliament properly to account. Our goal is to transform the nature of British politics itself to make it more relevant, engaging and responsive to people’s needs and dreams.
If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales
NFU Cymru is disappointed to hear that many of the concerns over the Habitat Wales Scheme raised by the union in its letter to the Rural Affairs Minister earlier this summer have been realised, following the launch of the scheme application period last Friday (29th September).
Over the past few days, many farmers have expressed concern to NFU Cymru over the massive loss in income they will face as their current Glastir contract ends on the 31st December and the Habitat Wales Scheme begins in January 2024.
NFU Cymru has been consistent in its lobbing of Welsh Government over the future of agrienvironment support in Wales. The union first wrote to the Minister on the issue in early January this year, where NFU Cymru President Aled Jones outlined the importance of the scheme not only to Welsh farmers, but also to the enhancement of Wales’ environment, biodiversity and habitats. NFU Cymru has since voiced members’ concerns over the ending of the Glastir scheme and ambiguity over the new interim scheme on
several occasions, both in writing and in person.
NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “We have had a lot of farmers get in contact with NFU Cymru over recent days who are extremely worried at the drop in income they will face as Glastir ends and the Habitat Wales Scheme begins. A great deal of those raising concerns have committed to government-backed agri-environment delivery on their farms for nearly 30 years. Many farmers report that they will face a reduction in funding of 70% and more in agrienvironment support by entering into the new scheme.
“Our members have also highlighted errors in the habitat maps published on RPW Online, we have raised these issues with Welsh Government and hope they can be addressed.
“In our letter to the Minister in August, and in discussions with the Minister and her officials at the Royal Welsh Show and subsequently, we highlighted our concerns at the lack of consultation and a comprehensive impact assessment to understand the effect on farming businesses prior to making the
decision to end all Glastir contracts and introduce the Habitat Wales Scheme. We also raised concerns at the ability to get a totally new scheme designed, tested and operational within such a short timescale.
“I take no pleasure in seeing the concerns we raised being realised on the opening of the application period for the Habitat Wales Scheme, it is farming families, rural communities and the continued delivery of agri-environment work on farms across Wales that are the losers in all of this.
“I would urge Welsh Government to urgently review the scheme and address the economic and technical matters that are concerning farmers who are committed to the maintenance and enhancement of the farmed environment across Wales. It is only by doing this that government will be able to restore confidence in its ability to support environmental activity on farms ahead of the introduction of the Sustainable Farming Scheme in 2025.”
For more details about the scheme and NFU Cymru’s lobbying, please visit the NFU Cymru website.
THE HEALTH SERVICE these days performs miracles.
Writes Jonathan Edwards MP.
Technological advances mean that illnesses can be identified at the onset in many fields of health care. This means treatment pathways can be introduced to avoid serious complications further down the line.
Policymakers for many years have advanced the desire for the NHS to be as much of a preventative service as possible as opposed to a service dealing with ill health.
The hope is that levels of ill health in the general population are reduced, leading to long-term savings in health expenditure and improved well-being and quality of life for our citizens. In the context of an ageing population, such a strategy is vital to meet the demographic challenges ahead of us.
The four health services within the UK have introduced universal screening programmes for various illnesses over the years as part of a proactive health strategy.
For instance, the NHS in Wales offers screening services for babies, including antenatal, hearing and bloodspot.
For adults, there is vision screening for people with diabetes, cervical screening, breast cancer, bowel cancer, and abdominal aortic aneurysm.
There is no universal screening programme for prostate cancer, despite it being the most common cancer in men, which, according to the University College of London, leads to the death of 10,000 a year across the UK.
In the case of abdominal aortic aneurysms, screening takes place after age 65 for men.
Cervical and breast cancer screening for
WE are now well into conference season with Lib-Dems & Conservatives having held theirs, with Plaid & Labour still to come. As I listen to the speeches and read the various articles written about the conferences it is becoming clear that all parties are gearing up to an election next year.
At the Lib-Dem conference I was disappointed to hear Sir Ed Davey saying he used the wrong c-word to describe Conservatives. Has he forgotten what happened to Jo Cox and Sir David Amess?
women and bowel cancer screening for all starts during working age.
There is a pressing need to remove barriers for people from participating in these programmes.
I was recently visited in a constituency surgery by Julie Grabham from Cwmann.
Julie is a Human Resources expert. Following her diagnosis with breast cancer, identified following a screening programme, Julie has been running a campaign with employers to persuade them to offer paid time off leave for employees to attend screening appointments.
The Covid pandemic, of course, caused havoc with the public health screening programmes in Wales. However, evidence suggests that patients miss many appointments because they can’t afford to.
The main reason in the working age cohort appears to be the complete lottery patients face regarding their employment rights.
Some patients do not attend appointments because there is no right to paid leave.
The cost of living crisis we are currently experiencing has exacerbated matters.
Missed appointments create waste in the system and fundamentally undermine the Welsh Government’s public
health strategy. Critically, it potentially endangers the personal well-being of the person missing the screening appointment.
Health is a devolved policy field, whilst employment rights are reserved to Westminster. And whilst it is true that the other health services in the UK also offer similar screening services to Wales, it can be argued that Westminster employment law is undermining Welsh public health strategies.
Employment law in the UK needs urgent reform to protect the well-being of workers. Paid leave for screening is one obvious issue for reform, as are other areas I have campaigned on over the years, such as paid leave for parents suffering from the trauma
of a miscarried baby or paid bereavement leave following the death of a partner or parent.
Together with reforms to enshrine the right of workers in suitable occupations to work a part of the week from home and a move towards a fourday working week where practical – many positive reforms could be introduced to vastly improve the well-being of workers and hence overall productivity of the workforce.
These are measures I have all advocated in the past and will be pressing the UK Government as they announce their last legislative priorities before the next election during the King’s Speech next month.
Politicians need to be mindful that language matters, and when you are offensive, even jokingly, it is still offensive. There are too many people who think it is OK to chant “F*** the Tories” or wear derogatory T-shirts. It is not OK, and demeans proper political debate.
This week, in Manchester, there has been much discussion about HS2 and whether the link to Manchester should go ahead or not. It was right to keep the project under review to ensure it can deliver what was promised. However, it is never right for one project to become so expensive it prevents work from being done elsewhere. Rishi Sunak is mindful that he is the prime Minister for the whole of UK, and not just some areas. We finally had the decision from Rishi Sunak, it has been cancelled. But in its place will be a programme which will still be able to deliver on the objectives of HS2, as well as allowing development in other areas. Whatever decision he was to take he would be criticised, but I welcome his pragmatic and realistic approach to this. His decision has shown real leadership and the ability to make the right decisions for the UK.
What the debate around HS2 has highlighted is that getting around is a basic right we should all be able to access. Our politicians and decision makers should aspire to make it as easy as possible to travel. However, that is not the case in Wales. By introducing blanket
20mph restrictions and cancelling road building Labour has made it more difficult. As well as being a basic right a good transport infrastructure is fundamental to a thriving economy, and we all benefit from that. Unlike the Prime Minister, Mark Drakeford has pulled the plug on improving roads and increasing capacity, but has not put in place any alternatives. It is near impossible to get anywhere in Wales by using public transport, and rural communities are dependent on cars.
The argument for 20mph zones is to save lives and prevent injuries. In Fishguard we have been asking for some small changes to the road layout which would achieve this at a fraction of the cost. This has been ongoing for over 20 years, but constantly refused on the grounds of cost. Drakeford has spent millions on unwanted speed restrictions, which benefit no-one but refuses to spend a few thousand on a small project which is much needed, and asked for by the local community.
The decision to scrap HS2 and replace it with £36bn of investment in many local projects show how our PM listens to what communities want and deliver. More people have signed the petition to scrap the 20mph zones than voted for Welsh Labour but Drakeford will say “No” when asked to reconsider. Remember this when the elections come round. Do you want a government who is willing to listen and change when it is the right thing to do, or do you want a party which listens and acts on what you want?
THE CONSERVATIVE Party conference has given me something to both laugh at and weep. Some of my favourite contributions include the made up accusations that Labour are going to tax meat (Labour are not), that councils are forcing 15 minute cities (it’s not true and who doesn’t want all their services within 15 minutes of their home) and finally how they are going to ‘kick woke ideology out of science’. Please contact me if you understand what that means.
However, what wasn’t discussed in this conference is the elephant in the room, and that’s Brexit.
I understand that 57.1% of the electorate in Pembrokeshire voted for Brexit. I did not but I cannot continue to ignore the evidence that we see in Pembrokeshire and nationally.
Rosslare in Ireland’s January 2023 traffic to the UK was down 49% on January 2022, with freight direct to the European mainland up 446%. There’s a reason for this and that’s due to a wave of new bureaucracy, affecting not only businesses but also individuals. Traveling to and from the EU now requires additional documentation and border checks, adding time and complexity to journeys. Similarly, the need for customs declarations and compliance with new regulations has increased administrative burdens for businesses, potentially discouraging foreign investment. Brexit was never an ‘oven ready deal’ no matter what Boris Johnson said and I believe that in the near future
we will see only one ferry service operating from Pembrokeshire as a continued fallout from Brexit.
Agriculture is another big issue and only this week did leading Brexiteer Jacob Rees Mogg state that he ’wants hormone-injected beef from Australia’. I certainly don’t and I also find it remarkable that we are putting our eggs into baskets that’s are the other side of the world, where the number of food miles would rapidly increase. The agriculture sector has been hit hard by Brexit, particularly due to the loss of access to the EU’s Single Market. Farmers and exporters of agricultural products now face significant challenges in exporting their goods to the EU due to new regulations and border controls. This has put immense pressure on the UK’s agricultural industry, and some farmers have reported financial difficulties as a result. A trade deal with Australia only roughly adds 0.08% to the British Economy by 2035 whereas between 1999 and 2007, the EU accounted for 5055% of UK exports. By 2022, this figure had fallen to 42%. You don’t have to be good at maths to see the difference.
I understand everyone voted for Brexit for different reasons, I’m not blaming you, I’m blaming the liars who told lie after lie after lie to push forward their own agenda with zero thought for the consequences. To me, Brexit is still a taboo subject in this country but I think it’s time we started to talk more about it and the impact it’s having.
WELSH councils have a hole in their finances exceeding £352m collectively for the coming financial year, making it extremely likely they will have to make huge cuts in essential services and jobs, says a report published today (Friday) by UNISON.
The figures, based on financial information gathered from Welsh local authorities show the true scale of the dire state of local government funding, says the union.
Many authorities will be forced to consider selling land and buildings, as well as slash services for the vulnerable and vital community resources such as waste collection, libraries and leisure centres, UNISON warns.
The biggest funding gaps in the country are at Caerphilly County Borough Council and Cardiff Council, which are both £37m short of their spending needs for next year.
Other authorities
with severe cash shortfalls, according to UNISON’s research, include Flintshire County Council on £32m and Carmarthenshire County Council, which is short some £29m.
The UNISON research, Councils Under Pressure, shows that all bar six of the 22 the local authorities in Wales are at least £10m short of their planned spending requirements, while seven are as much as £20m adrift.
The combined shortfall total of £352.1m in 2024/25 means Welsh local authorities will be forced to rely on virtually nonexistent cash reserves. All are likely to have to make cuts to services and their workforces, says UNISON.
Regardless of their overall political control, the future is bleak for councils with increased energy costs, a decade and more of reduced government funding and inflation all worsening their financial position, the union adds.
The huge scale of the budget shortfall across
local government means a growing number of councils are teetering on the brink, UNISON warns.
This precarious state of council budgets couldn’t come at a worse time with thousands of families ever more reliant on community services due to cost of living pressures, adds UNISON.
The shortfalls increase the risk that many authorities will consider raising their council tax as high as possible next time, says the union.
Most councils are responding to the crisis by cutting services and activities. Newport City Council has already cut back on some bin collections and rural bus services across Wales are at risk because of the lack of funding.
UNISON says Jeremy Hunt must provide extra grant funding in the chancellor’s autumn statement to help weather the immediate challenges or local authorities and their communities will no longer be able to cope.
Work must also be done at pace to reform how councils are funded to tackle the huge reduction in central government resources since 2010, urges the union.
UNISON Wales regional secretary Jess Turner said: “Communities rely on their local authorities for all manner of essential services, such as waste collection, social care, road repairs and parks and other open spaces.
“But councils are on their knees. Ministers seem to care very little about public services and local government has been hit hard over very many years.
“Essential services can’t run on thin air. Staff levels have already been cut to the bone in desperate attempts to balance the books.
“Yet more service cuts and job losses are sadly inevitable across the country unless the government intervenes with the lifeline of significant extra funding. Not just for those on the brink, but to councils everywhere.”
Jacob Rees Mogg wants hormone injected cheap beef from Australia on his plate. The grass fed, high welfare, superior quality beef grown in Wales dismissed in favour of cheap meat from the other side of the globe.
Any Welsh farmers who still haven’t realised that independence offers them the best future need to sit down and give very serious thought to how they see the future of farming developing within the UK. To where their farm, their livelihood, the land they love and the children who will inherit it, will be in 20 years.
So here we are, with our small but beautiful farm. Full of potential but needing a lot of work, as they always do.
Unfortunately, there’s a farm 20 times larger right next door. Worse yet, the farmer next door effectively controls around 80% of everything we can do on our farm.
They also collect around 90% of the proceeds of everything we produce on our farm.
They don’t give us an accurate tally of how much this generates for them.
They spend this according to the priorities of their huge farm next door.
THE Welsh Government introduced a bill today [Monday, 2nd Oct] which paves the way for automatic voter registration in future Welsh elections.
The Elections and Elected Bodies (Wales)
Bill will modernise the way local government and Senedd elections are run and confirms the Welsh Government’s intention to introduce automatic registration across Wales for those elections once a piloting programme has been completed.
Local authorities will be invited to take part in a series of trials focusing on the best way to collect data, including using data that already exists, to support automatic registration.
Currently people must register in order to vote, but under the new proposals local government will be required to register people to the local government register without the need for an
application. This will make voting simpler – especially for young people and for those who have moved to Wales from another country.
The new legislation will also require Ministers to establish a fund to help disabled people standing for Welsh elections in the future with additional costs (e.g. mobility equipment and communication software). This follows a successful pilot of such a fund trialled in the May 2021 Senedd and May 2022 local government elections.
Another requirement contained in the bill is for an online platform to be set up by the Welsh Ministers containing information about Welsh elections for voters. This will make sure information on elections and candidates is readily available for everyone.
Mick Antoniw, Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution, said:
“The reforms in this bill continue the
significant progress we have made in strengthening Welsh democracy in recent years, including extending the vote to 16 and 17-year-olds and qualifying foreign nationals. Our ambition is for changes to be in place in time for the next major devolved and local elections in 2026 and 2027, bringing us another step closer towards achieving our long-term vision for electoral reform.
“Ultimately this is about making it as easy as possible for people to vote and participate in democracy. Our actions to remove barriers are in direct contrast with the UK Government, which has denied some voters their democratic right by requiring photo ID in recent English local elections.”
Jess Blair, Director of Electoral Reform Society Cymru, said:
“The legislation introduced by the Welsh Government today will bring democracy
in Wales into the 21st century. It is welcome that Ministers are looking at how to make voting easier for people, removing barriers that we know many people face.
“The move to Automatic Voter Registration will remove a hurdle for newly enfranchised voters and we hope it will lead to more information sharing between services so voters no longer face the hassle of updating their details when they move house. This move brings Wales into line with leading democracies across the world who automatically register voters as a matter of course.
“We welcome provisions to establish a new voter information platform. Having a one stop shop where information on democracy in Wales will be available will make it easier for voters to access resources which currently sit in multiple places.”
There’s plenty to discuss in terms of the future of rural Wales and the potential offered by Independence, hopefully the blindness of central government to the realities of rural life and agriculture (on both sides of the political spectrum) are already generating significant debate and discussion on the constitutional future of Wales within the sector.
But, for me, as someone from a rural background, with family still in the sector, that is not the fundamental reason why every single farmer in Wales should desire Independence instinctively and wholeheartedly.
Let’s paint a picture.
Farmers love their land, they always have a deep affinity for it. Whether they have a multi generation family farm or have somehow managed to build a farm business and acquire land from nothing. It is the very nature of farming to care, to cherish and to improve that which you have. This needs long term planning, an often innate conservatism and an understanding of your own holdings which only comes with time and legacy. Our beautiful farm
Then, they ‘generously’, give us money to run our agricultural operations. This they do whimsically, with rules they write themselves.
They stop us investing in improving our farm, its infrastructure and our future.
Yes Penfro
Why Welsh Farmers should support Welsh Independence – 06.10.23
2
They probably do love and cherish their own farm, in their own way, but they definitely don’t care for ours.
No farmer would, or should, ever allow the farm next door to set their priorities for their holdings, their livestock, their crops – to decide where and how they can invest or to control the infrastructure that they need to nurture their holdings and their livestock.
It is not because of Jacob Rees Mogg and the failings of the UK government when it comes to agricultural policy that the farmers of Wales should stand up, stand together and stand tall for independence. They should stand tall for an Independent Wales because this land is their land.
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ANDREW JONES
Mr Andrew Jones Lower Town, Fishguard Suddenly in the garden of his home on Saturday 23rd September, Andrew of Glyn y Mel, Lower Town. Beloved husband of Theresa, loving father of Becky, treasured grandfather of Drew & Luis and a dear brother of Sara. Funeral service on Monday 9th October. The cortege will leave the family home at 1:30pm prior to a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 2:30pm. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Wales Air Ambulance’ or ‘RNLI’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.
ROSLYN OWEN GIBBY
GIBBY Roslyn Owen Yn sydyn ddydd Iau 21ain Medi, bu farw Roslyn, Williams Court, Arberth. Tad Robert ac Anthony, tadcu, hen dadcu, brawd
a ffrind i lawer. Angladd hollol breifat yn Amlosgfa
Parc Gwyn, Arberth ddydd
Gwener 6ed Hydref am
1.45 o’r gloch. Ffrindiau i gwrdd yng Nghlwb y Buffs am luniaeth yn dilyn yr angladd. Ymholiadau i Dennis Jones Trefnwr Angladdau, Efailwen.
Ffôn 01994 419561 Gibby Roslyn Owen Suddenly on Thursday 21st September, Roslyn, Williams Court, Narberth. Father of Robert and Anthony, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and a friend to many. Strictly private funeral service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Friday 6th October at 1.45 pm. Friends please meet at the Buffs Club for refreshments following the service. Enquiries to Dennis Jones
Funeral Director, Efailwen. Tel 01994 419561
RONALD NOAKES
MR RONALD NOAKES
PEMBROKE DOCK The death occurred peacefully on Monday 18th September of Mr Ronald Noakes, affectionately known as
Ron, aged 90 years of King Street, Pembroke Dock. Dearly loved brother of Margaret and brother-inlaw to Auriol. A much-loved Uncle to Sandra, Fiona and many nieces and nephews. Ron will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. The funeral service will take place on Friday 6th October at Bethel Baptist Chapel, Pembroke Dock at 2.00pm followed by interment at Llanion Cemetery. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu for Pembroke Borough Silver Band c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 and Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876
WILLIAM MAELGWYN BRIAN (WMB) GRIFFITHS
GRIFFITHS William Maelgwyn Brian (WMB) Peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Monday 25th September 2023 William Maelgwyn Brian (WMB) Griffiths of Haverfordwest aged 85 years. Beloved
husband of the late Amy, much loved father of Adrian, Neil and the late Fiona Lavis and loving grandfather, he will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. The funeral service will take place on Friday 20th October, 1:00pm at St. Martins Church, Haverfordwest followed by cremation, 2:30pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to Pembrokeshire Mencap may be sent c/o Mr Adrian Griffiths, 6 Masefield Drive, Haverfordwest, SA61 1RZ. Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418.
JOHN RICHARD GOSSAGE
MR. JOHN RICHARD GOSSAGE LAWRENNY
The death occurred on Monday 18th September 2023 at his home in Coedcanlas of Mr. John Richard Gossage aged 67 years. Devoted Husband of Elizabeth. Much Loved Step-Dad to Nick and
Matthew. Elizabeth, Nick and Matthew welcome anyone who knew John to attend the funeral service which will take place on Wednesday 4th October 2023 at St. Caradoc’s Church, Lawrenny at 11.00am followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth
12.15pm. There will be refreshments served at Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth following the service where the family hope you can join them to say goodbye to John. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for The Paul Sartori Foundation and The Pembroke Town Walls Trust, Stone of the Year campaign c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67
8QH (01834) 831876 & 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680
GEOFFREY PHILIP HEARN
HEARN Geoffrey Philip 1933-2023 Passed away peacefully with family on
8th September 2023, at the age of 90. After completing national service, Geoffrey was a successful retail store manager for Woolworths in Marlborough. Following marriage Geoffrey lived and worked in the Cardiff area. He then spent five years in Mallorca with his family before relocating to Malvern and later settling in Pembrokeshire. A long time resident of Johnston and Haverfordwest. Geoffrey was the manager of the old and new Tesco, Rayers stores in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock. Later in retirement he worked in Cartlett. A Loving husband of the late Janice Hearn, father of Rebecca, Stuart and Nathan and grandfather of four. The funeral service has now taken place at St. Aloysius Roman Catholic Church, Oxford Donations in lieu for Paul Satori Foundation may be still sent c/o Peter Smith & Son Funeral Directors Ltd, 135 Burwell Drive, Witney, Oxon, OX28 5LP. Tel: 01993 702000. www. petersmithandson.co.uk
Well, it’s Harvest Festival time again. It’s a familiar ritual of but I wonder how many of us know that the modern Harvest Festival is mainly a Victorian development.
As I understand it the first church to hold an annual Harvest Thanksgiving service was the church of St Mary and St Giles in Buckerell near Honiton in Devon when Rev Edwin Coleridge, held a Harvest Thanksgiving on Friday, 14 October 1840. This became an annual event, but I guess he never suspected the impact his innovation would have.
He could justify his decision to introduce this form of service from the Bible of course. The ‘Feast of Weeks’ (Shavout) marked the start of harvest when the ‘first-fruits’ were gathered in, and the Feast of Ingathering (Sukkot)signified the moment when all was gathered in and marked the end of the agricultural year.
Sadly, the Bible seems to be shaping our contemporary culture, and some might suggest even our church culture, less and less today. One recent poll for example
discovered that only six per cent of British adults read or listen to the Bible, while 55 per cent of those who describe themselves as Christians said they never do so.
I can’t help contrasting this depressing statistic with what is currently happening in China. James Howard-Smith, a writer for Bible Society recently wrote, ‘Religious activity, particularly by foreign organisations, is still heavily restricted in China, and we’ve taken care to cultivate a relationship with the authorities that over the years has borne fruit. Since 1987, when Bible Society was invited to set up Amity Press in Nanjing, 90 million Bibles have been printed for distribution in China’,
‘The living word has filled to bursting China’s reopened churches, overstretching the very limited availability of ministers. On average, more than six and a half thousand Christians will be served by a single ordained pastor, mostly in less affluent areas, not at all representative of China’s new wealth’.
As I reflected on these
amazing figures, I was reminded of some words of the apostle James. Writing sometime in the mid first century AD the brother of Jesus told his readers that they were a kind of ‘firstfruits’ of all creation. In other words, James was telling them that they need not be discouraged by the fact that they were small in number because they were merely the ‘first’ of a vast group of believers yet to come. And how right he was!
Like the tide, church attendance and religious faith ebb and flow, but ever since James penned those encouraging words the church has continued to grow, and often in the most unpromising of soils. Like communist China for example.
And at the heart of all that is the Bible. As one church leader told James Howard Smith “The Church in China is experiencing a revival because the word of God is like wood in the fire.” So, who knows, it could even happen in Wales again before too long.
Rob James
What do we really want for ourselves, our children, our grandchildren? Most would likely agree on a safe world with thriving nature, clean air, safe streets, food security etc.
Much of our world is already literally on fire. The bread baskets of the world are seeing reduced yields. Whether we know it or not, we are already engaged in a battle for survival. It would be helpful if our leaders had the courage to tell us this clearly. It would be helpful if the media remained focused on the issue as they did in Covid, for all pathways to a survivable future involve behavioural change on our parts.
We stand at an
absolutely crucial moment in time. How we respond over the next 10, 20 years will determine that future.
With the implementation of the 20mph zoning, the Welsh Government has made a step towards the future which will make our roads and communities safer places to walk, cycle and live. No one has said that we can not drive, just that we should drive a little slower in some places. No the system is not perfect and there are surprising anomalies, but let’s not throw this move towards the future we need under the wheels of the bus at the first hurdle.
We can see the future that Westminster is promoting; moving back green targets, giving the go ahead to the development of the Rosebank field and now we are told yet more car friendly policies; in short, the interests of the majority being put aside
in favour of the interests of the powerful minority. No one is asking anyone to go without, just that we make do with less in order to buy the future some breathing space while we learn to adapt, for every additional ounce of CO2 we emit makes that safe future just a little harder to achieve. Every level of government needs to be promoting the changes that give the future we need a chance. This is a time for looking at the bigger picture, for level headed conversation and pulling together at every level.
Jane Mansfield Cardigan Extinction RebellionDEAR SIR, Three decades ago, I experienced the
picture of the week!The Auroras by Paul Davies
www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk
exemplary operation of germany’s stateowned and statecontrolled railway system—a model that maximized its service for every citizen by maintaining affordable fare structures. In this system, public funds complemented fare revenues, creating a symbiotic financial structure that enabled optimal efficiency and affordability.
The resultant low fares not only appealed to a wider passenger demographic but also defrayed individual costs, while maintaining adequate operational funding. The additional passengers and expanded train schedules not only yielded impressive financial returns but also alleviated congestion on the autobahns, contributing to national prosperity.
Contrastingly, the British Railway System has historically leaned towards high fares, necessitated by a need to dispense lucrative dividends to shareholders in a privatized system. Here, board members, often chosen by shareholders, are arguably influenced by financial reciprocity, with decisions tilted to attract investment. These decision-makers, motivated by ensuring high dividend returns— their principal reason for investing—may not always possess a keen understanding or educational background in railway efficiency and operations.
In Germany, board members of state railways are typically chosen based on their in-depth knowledge of railway engineering and operations. The underpinning principle? Ensuring that those at the helm possess the expertise to facilitate an efficient, passengercentric, and financially stable railway system.
It’s worth noting that 14 million British adults
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have vested their faith in the Conservative ethos that private enterprise trumps state control in efficiency—a belief that somehow perceives railways in Cornwall as being in competition with those in Manchester.
Perhaps there is an opportunity here to leverage the political and ideological voting patterns of British adults as a teaching tool in schools. By doing so, we can guide the younger generation towards a future where they can exercise their voting rights more judiciously and responsibly, cognizant of the broader socioeconomic implications.
Thank you for considering my perspective, and I anticipate that this will initiate a meaningful dialogue among your readership regarding the structural and operational paradigms of our railway system.
C. N. WestermanPreviously, the Welsh Government has responded to calls for a clear ban on coal mining (approximating the ban Scotland announced in October 2022) from us and other groups, by presenting existing policies as forming an effective ban on new coal mines and coal mine extensions. This position by the Welsh Government has recently been called into question, in the case of the Glan Lash opencast coal mine extension application (E/39917).
Welsh policy in practice in the case of the Glan Lash opencast coal mine extension application
The Local Planning Authority within Carmarthenshire County Council produced a Planning Officer’s report (begins on p55) ahead of the Councillor’s planning committee meeting to guide Councillors’ consideration of the Glan Lash opencast coal mine extension application. On page 67 of this report, the Planning Officer writes “it is therefore difficult to know for certain how to interpret the coal policy.” and “Overall, it is considered that the proposals would largely meet the criteria of the coal policy”. I am sure you are aware of the weight that the Planning Officer’s Report carries in Planning Committee meetings, and how this interpretation of the Welsh Government’s coal policy highlights that it fails the test to prevent new coal mines or their extensions, and moreover, the various caveats and exceptions are difficult for Local Planning Authorities to navigate.
We are aware that other policies in Wales intersect with coal mine applications and extensions such as MTAN2 – but again, Glan Lash opencast coal mine extension was found to be compatible with this. The application was ultimately recommended for refusal of planning permission on the basis of local ecological harm. Were it for better mitigation and compensation by Bryn Bach Coal Ltd, this application would have been marked for approval, pending a holding directive by the Welsh Government that’s been pending since 03/01/2020 (ID 1481).
In March 2021, when the coal policy statement was issued,
it was a landmark policy marking an unrivalled commitment to lead by example on fulfilling climate responsibilities – and we celebrated it as such at the time. Two years on, there have been several significant developments relating to coal use and mining in Wales which highlight the need to be more ambitious now:
Most significantly and recently, TATA has secured £500m from the UK Government to convert Port Talbot Steelworks Basic Oxygen Furnace to an Electric Arc Furnace, reducing its demand for coal to negligible amounts.
Extension applications by Ffosy-fran and Glan Lash demonstrate existing anti-coal policies and call-in powers by the Welsh Ministers are not an effective deterrent, a problem that Minister Julie James highlighted in a letter to Rt Hon Kwasi Kwarteng MP “Developers’ proposals… generate significant momentum before Welsh policy can properly be applied.”
Ambiguity in current anti-coal policies is responsible for the Ffos-y-fran extension application which we now know bought the mining company more time to illegally excavate what now amounts to over 300,000 tonnes of coal and over 1 million tonnes of CO2.
Ambiguity in current anti-coal policies has been branded as “difficult to know….how to interpret” and deemed not to prevent the Glan Lash opencast coal mine extension.
Scotland announced an de facto ban on coal mining in October 2022, distancing it from the UK Government’s back-sliding on its coal and environmental commitments, most recently in Rish Sunak’s
regressive speech. Wales can now take its place beside Scotland on the international stage as environmental leaders within the UK.
Challenges are mounting to stay on course with climate commitments, and tough action such as a ban on coal mining sends a powerful message about the Welsh Government’s conviction.
Increasing awareness of the contribution of mine-based methane emissions to climate change has led to pressure to monitor and mitigate at-source greenhouse gasses that will create a future burden for the Welsh Government.
A coal mine ban can be drafted is such a way that allows for the safe winding down of existing coal mines, and Coal Authority access to fulfil its regulatory duties. The following members of the Climate Cymru network would be happy to work with the Welsh Government towards the introduction of a coal mine ban on Welsh soil, bringing Wales in line with Scotland, and distinguishing itself on the world stage for leading the transition away from coal.
We, the undersigned, look forward to hearing from you.
1. Daniel Therkelsen, Director and Campaigner, Coal Action Network
2. Sam Ward, Head, Climate Cymru
3. Jim Bowen, Director, Clynfyw Care Farm and Ffynnone Community
Resilience
4. Sarah Rees, Chair, Stop Climate Chaos Cymru
5. Ken Little, Chair, Pontypridd Land Society
6. Brian Heddwch, Director, Awel Amen Tawe
7. Ruth Harding, Clerk,Cardiff Quakers
8. Jules Wagstaff, Climate and Community
9. Stephen Jenkins, Tir Natur
10. Dan McCallum, Director, Egni Cooperative
11. Suzanne Luppa, The Coproduction Network for Wales
12. Ru Hartwell, Founder, Climate Shop
13. David Thorpe, The One Planet Centre
14. Hannah Garcia, Director, Green Squirrel
15. Sujatha Thaladi, The Mentor Ring
16. Margaret Minhinnick, Director, Sustainable Wales
17. Grant Peisley, Director, Gwyrddni and Datblygiadau Egni Gwledig
18. Phillipa Gibson, Representative, XR Cardigan
19. Zoe Binning, Business Owner, Zoe Binning
20. Ed Smith, Business Owner, Here Now Films
21. Chloe Masefield, Director, Natural Weigh
22. Jessica Mann, Miller Research
CARAVANS
CLEARANCES
CAR PARTS
ELECTRICAL
FENCING, DRIVEWAYS AND LANDSCAPING
HAIRDRESSING
CARPENTRY
CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHY
FABRICATION
GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING
HANDYMAN
OVEN CLEANING
In a riveting clash at the Obs, Hakin United showcased their mettle, edging past Merlins Bridge 2-1 in a game filled with twists and turns. The Vikings surged ahead in the 23rd minute, courtesy of Jack Britton’s precision and an exceptional 15yard header, providing an early lead. Hakin United continued their relentless pursuit, with player-assistant manager Mark Jones orchestrating a flawless cross that Callum Stannett elegantly slotted home, doubling their advantage.
Neyland’s second win of the season but also etched his name in the annals of Welsh football folklore.
Meanwhile, at Knock Field, Clarbeston Road orchestrated a footballing symphony, decimating Tenby 6-1 in a display of pure brilliance. Laurie Howarth stole the limelight with a spectacular hattrick, showcasing his clinical finishing abilities. Howarth’s first-half strike was complemented by Jake Booth’s goal, giving Clarbeston Road a comfortable lead.
NARBERTH faced off against familiar foes Dunvant RFC in a highly anticipated league rugby encounter. Despite challenging weather conditions marked by gusty winds and rain, both teams showcased their determination in a hard-fought battle.
The game kicked off with Dunvant taking the lead after their centre expertly kicked a penalty, putting them ahead 3-0 early on. Narberth swiftly responded when Otters’ fly half Ashley Sutton capitalised on Dunvant’s offside penalty, levelling the score at 3-3.
SNarberth dominated the first half, consistently pressuring Dunvant and keeping them confined to their own half. After a series of attacks, Narberth’s back division orchestrated a wellcoordinated move, allowing left wing Dean James to score a try under the posts. Sutton’s successful conversion bolstered Narberth’s
lead, bringing the score to 10-3.
However, Dunvant retaliated just before halftime, as their left wing seized an opportunity from a high kick and dove over in the corner for an unconverted try, narrowing the gap to 10-8 at the break.
The second half saw Narberth intensifying their offensive efforts, putting immense pressure on Dunvant with numerous scrums near the visitors’ line. Despite their relentless attempts, Narberth faced resilient defence from Dunvant, leading to a tense standoff on the field.
In a crucial turning point, Dunvant conceded two penalties, enabling Sutton to display his composure by slotting both over from a challenging distance of forty metres. These successful kicks extended Narberth’s lead to 16-8.
The home team continued their onslaught, with James crossing the try line
again, although this time he lost the ball before grounding. Nevertheless, Narberth’s persistence paid off when centre Hedd Nicholas outmanoeuvred his opponent, setting up James for another try in the corner. This unconverted try pushed Narberth further ahead, making it 21-8.
In the dying moments of the game, Nicholas showcased his skills once more, sidestepping his marker and scoring wide out, concluding the match at 26-8 in Narberth’s favour.
Looking ahead, Narberth will face local rivals Crymych in their next league fixture on Saturday, October 14, following Wales’ upcoming match against Georgia. The victory against Dunvant RFC has undoubtedly bolstered Narberth’s confidence as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in the league.
The Wizards, however, displayed resilience, pulling one back when Steffan Williams capitalised on Vikings’ keeper Ashley Bevans being off his line. Despite a spirited effort, Merlins Bridge couldn’t breach Hakin United’s defence further. The final scoreline stood at 2-1, propelling the Vikings back to the top of the table and leaving the spectators in awe of their performance.
Over at the Recreational Ground, Neyland orchestrated a remarkable comeback against Carew, emerging victorious with a 3-2 scoreline. Despite being reduced to ten men after Leo Power’s red card, Neyland roared into the lead with goals from Leo Power and Max Bowman-Davies before halftime. Carew, refusing to succumb, mounted a fierce comeback, with Marcus Griffiths scoring twice to level the score.
However, just when it seemed destined for a draw, former rugby star Patrick Bellerby seized the moment, slotting in the decisive goal in the dying moments. Bellerby’s heroics not only sealed
Although Tenby managed to pull one back through Scott Ferney, it proved to be a mere consolation as Howarth continued his onslaught. Jake Booth secured his brace, and in injury time, Howarth completed his hat-trick, leaving Tenby in awe of Clarbeston Road’s attacking prowess.
Lastly, at Monkton Lane, Kilgetty continued their impressive form, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory against Monkton Swifts. Lloyd Hughes emerged as the hero, netting twice, including a dramatic stoppage-time winner. Despite Monkton Swifts breaking the deadlock through Declan Carroll, Kilgetty responded swiftly, with Adam Johns equalising and Hughes adding the second, giving Kilgetty a slender lead.
The game intensified when Ben Steele levelled the score for the Swifts, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish. In the closing moments of the match, Hughes showcased his composure, burying the decisive goal and propelling Kilgetty to their second consecutive win.
United v Merlins Bridge
DIVISION 2
Hakin United II v Broad Haven Merlins Bridge II v Cosheston
DIVISION 3
Letterston v Pennar Robins II
Neyland II v Goodwick United II Pendine v Kilgetty II
DIVISION 4
Carew III v St Ishmaels II
Fishguard Sports II v Angle
Milford Athletic v Camrose II
Milford United v Tenby II
Prendergast Villa v Monkton Swifts III
DIVISION 5
Broad Haven II v Letterston II
Cosheston II v St Clears II
Haverfordwest CC II v Milford Athletic II
Hundleton v Johnston II
Narberth II v Lawrenny II
Pembroke Boro II v Herbrandston II
IN A STRATEGIC move aimed at clinching top honours in Pool C, Wales has unveiled a revamped squad ahead of their highly anticipated Rugby World Cup clash against Georgia in Nantes this Saturday.
Despite having already secured their spot in the quarter-finals, the Welsh team, led by seasoned coach Warren Gatland, is leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a commanding victory.
The team faces a challenge with the absence of experienced fly-half Dan Biggar, sidelined due to a rib injury sustained during their resounding 40-6 triumph over Australia.
Stepping into this crucial role is Gareth Anscombe, who delivered a stellar performance in Biggar’s absence during the Australian encounter.
Anscombe partners with scrum-half Tomos Williams, replacing Gareth Davies, injecting fresh vigour into the
backline. Exciting newcomer Rio Dyer seizes the opportunity on the left wing, promising an electrifying addition to the team’s attacking arsenal.
In the forward pack, Gatland has orchestrated significant changes, introducing Tommy Reffell as the openside flanker, and opting to rest the formidable Jac Morgan, their captain. Dewi Lake takes on the hooker position and assumes the mantle of leadership, flanked by props Gareth
Thomas and Tomas Francis. The secondrow pairing sees the youthful Dafydd Jenkins partnering with the seasoned Will Rowlands, ensuring a blend of exuberance and experience. The loose trio is anchored by Aaron Wainwright and Taulupe Faletau, adding depth and dynamism to the team’s formidable presence on the field.
Gatland’s strategic mastery is further evident in the replacements, with a 5-3 split providing ample options to bolster the team’s performance.
Elliot Dee, Nicky Smith, Henry Thomas, Christ Tshiunza, and Taine Basham offer robust forward cover, while Gareth Davies, Sam Costelow, and Mason
Grady stand ready to reinforce the backline.
The match is scheduled to unfold at the iconic Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes this Saturday, October 7, with kick-off set for 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT, 13:00 BST). Officiating this high-stakes encounter will be the seasoned referee Mathieu Raynal, supported by assistant referees James Doleman and Pierre Brousset, along with TMO Brendon Pickerill.
As the rugby world eagerly anticipates this clash, Wales remains determined to deliver a performance that not only secures their quarter-final berth but also cements their status as a formidable force in the tournament.
IN THE MIDDLE of the Rugby World Cup drama, Pool B has become a cauldron of suspense, captivating fans across the globe.
As the final weekend of pool matches looms large, the permutations in this Group of Death involving Ireland, South Africa, and Scotland have sparked intense discussions among enthusiasts.
Current Standings: South Africa asserted their dominance with a resounding 49-18 victory over Tonga in Marseille, concluding their pool stage campaign. Despite their triumph, the Springboks’ fate remains uncertain, as both Ireland and Scotland still hold the cards.
Ireland’s Path: For Ireland, the equation is clear – avoid defeat against Scotland to secure their spot in the quarter-finals. A draw would level them with the reigning champions at 15 points, but a fourpoint win would elevate them to 18, and a try bonus point win could
see them soar to 19. A losing bonus point, however, wouldn’t suffice for Ireland’s advancement, adding an extra layer of intensity to their impending clash with Scotland.
Scotland’s Challenge: Scotland faces a do-or-die situation, needing a victory over Ireland while preventing them from earning a bonus point. If both teams end up tied at 14 points, Scotland would advance based on their superior headto-head record, leaving Ireland out in the cold.
The Tension at Fifteen Points: Should all three
teams find themselves level at 15 points, the battle intensifies. Points difference becomes the decider, with Ireland (+122), South Africa (+117), and Scotland (+97) vying for the top spot. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as every try, conversion, and tackle could tip the balance.
Springboks’ Dilemma: South Africa’s destiny hangs in the balance. If Ireland loses to Scotland by a margin of seven points or less, and Scotland fails to secure a bonus point, the Springboks would advance as pool runners-up. However,
a nightmare scenario looms – if Scotland defeats Ireland by 21 points or more with a four-try bonus and Ireland manages to secure a bonus point in defeat, South Africa’s World Cup journey would end abruptly.
Conspiracy Theories: Amidst the fervour, conspiracy theories have surfaced, suggesting a potential agreement between Ireland and Scotland to engineer a result that benefits them both. The alleged motive for Ireland? Ensuring they avoid a rematch against the Springboks in the tournament.
Conclusion: As the final matches draw near, Pool B continues to live up to its moniker, the Pool of Death. Nail-biting tension and passionate fervour grip the fans of Ireland, South Africa, and Scotland, making the concluding weekend a spectacle not to be missed. The rugby world holds its breath, eagerly anticipating the unfolding drama on the field.
