The Pembrokeshire Herald 07/07/2023

Man with violent history receives final warning

A MAN with a previous record of violence has been told that he will not be given any further chances following his attack on his ex-partner in her own home, just months after a similar incident.

Darryan Edwards, who had been in a threeyear relationship with the complainant and shared a young child with her, appeared at Swansea Crown Court for the hearing.

On March 2, Edwards turned up intoxicated and upset at his ex-partner’s residence in Milford Haven, according to prosecutor David Singh.

Singh informed the court that Edwards had consumed approximately 20 pints of alcohol after attending a family member’s funeral earlier that day.

Although he was allowed to sleep in the spare room, Edwards ignored this arrangement and entered the complainant’s bed during the night.

Despite being repeatedly told to return to the spare room, Edwards became aggressive and violent, leading him to slap his former partner on the face with the back of his hand. He then proceeded to strangle her with both hands.

Due to his intoxicated state, she managed to push him off her. Edwards then put her in a headlock, but she was able to free herself once again.

Following the assault, the complainant left the premises with her daughter, while Edwards hurled abusive language at her. She promptly contacted a friend to report the incident, resulting in the involvement of the police and Edwards’ subsequent arrest.

“He said he didn’t remember assaulting his

Police search woodland

THERE was a large police presence in and around Withybush Woods on Sunday evening (Jul 2).

Police confirmed to The Pembrokeshire Herald that officers

were searching for a person who was reported missing.

Police have confirmed that after attending the scene at around 8pm the person was found safe and well.

Failed to provide specimen

Mohammed

Khezry of Picton Place, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire appeared in court for failing to provide a breath specimen as a driver.

He was required to provide the specimen on June 10, 2023, but failed to do so without a valid reason.

Khezry pleaded guilty and was fined £250. He must also pay costs of £85 and a surcharge of £100 in monthly instalments starting from August 4, 2023.

He received a 12-month driving disqualification, which can be reduced to 13 weeks if he completes a driving course by February 3, 2024.

Tenby summer pedestrianisation

The annual summer pedestrianisation in Tenby gets underway this coming week.

ex-partner and claimed it wasn’t something he would do,” stated Singh.

However, the court heard that Edwards, a 29-year-old resident of Jury Lane in Haverfordwest, had previously attacked the same complainant in a similar manner last year, accusing her of infidelity.

During that incident, he woke her up by shouting about her messages, slapped her thigh, and hit her on the head. As she tried to escape, Edwards continued to shout abuse and threw a baby gate at her.

For that offense, he was subjected to a twoyear community order in November 2022.

Following his police interview regarding the March 2 offenses, Edwards was released on bail with an order not to contact the complainant. However, on April 9, he repeatedly called her 46 times and

arrived at her residence the following morning.

Edwards shouted accusations about her whereabouts from the previous night, causing a disturbance. He proceeded to punch the door, resulting in the doorbell falling off, and then damaged the wing mirror of the complainant’s car.

The court was informed that Edwards has four prior convictions for six offenses, including battery and criminal damage.

In mitigation, Hannah George acknowledged that Edwards recognized his issue with alcohol and had voluntarily sought assistance from the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service.

George also revealed that Edwards and his expartner had reconciled after the previous attack, but their relationship had encountered difficulties in February due to a family bereavement. She emphasized that this was not an excuse for his actions and that Edwards was genuinely fearful of his

behavior while under the influence of alcohol.

Judge Geraint Walters condemned the assault as “an ugly piece of offending” and issued a stern warning that there would be no further opportunities given to Edwards.

Having pleaded guilty to all charges, Edwards was handed a 12-month suspended sentence for two years. This included eight months for intentional strangulation, concurrent two-month sentences for assault by beating and harassment, consecutive two-month sentences for criminal damage and breaching the previous community order.

Additionally, Edwards is required to complete 200 hours of unpaid work, attend 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days, participate in the Building Better Relationships program, and pay £110 in compensation for the damaged wing mirror.

The complainant was also granted a five-year restraining order.

The scheme within the walled town runs from Monday, July 3 until Friday, September 8, between 11am and 5.30pm each day.

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

Full details and the application forms can be found on the council’s website.

Residents and businesses have been

urged to complete the applications as soon as possible to ensure that there is sufficient time for it to be processed and additional checks to made, if required.

Requests for permits must be submitted online.

In order to ensure the ongoing success of the scheme, permit holders are encouraged to continue to plan journeys outside of the scheme hours of 11am and 5.30pm, as far as is practical.

For more information, email Tenby.pedestrian@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

£11.6m development ‘will change fortune of the town,’ say council

The Western Quayside is currently under construction on the site of the town’s former Ocky White department store.

It comprises a state-ofthe-art, accessible-to-all, three-storey development which will feature a multiuser food emporium, along with a restaurant, bar and rooftop terrace.

Construction work commenced in 2021 by John Weaver Contractors Ltd, and the project was originally expected to be completed in early 2023.

Work was temporarily delayed last year following the discovery of ancient artefacts and human remains dating back to the 14th century, however throughout the delay the construction team was able to proceed with work

in other areas of the site. There were also delays due to the presence of asbestos.

At the July 3 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members heard an update on the development, which also listed delays and cost increases.

“A budget increase was considered by Cabinet in December 2022 with an addition of £5.527m (including fit-out) for the Western Quayside Scheme, to provide a revised total budget of £11,624m,” the report stated.

Deputy Leader of Council and Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change Cllr Paul Miller said: “Western Quayside has not been without its challenges, Covid, the

burial site and inflationary issues, in part due to the war in Ukraine; all three were pretty unforeseeable.”

He told members the principal works were expected to be completed later this year, along with marketing the site to prospective tenants, with the hope of encouraging local business.

“Western Quayside, on its own, will not transform Haverfordwest, but as part of a package it will, including the Riverside Centre and the [transport] interchange and the revitalised castle.”

Moving the report be noted, he added: “I absolutely remain convinced the package we’re delivering will be transformational for Haverfordwest and the surrounding area.”

Cabinet Member for Planning & Housing Delivery Cllr Jon Harvey seconded the recommendation,

emphasising the large amount of grant funding received for the project.

“Personally, I’d rather get as much central and Welsh Government money into Pembrokeshire as we can, it will be a real attraction for the town, it will push the town into a different dynamic,” he said.

“When you invest publicly into town centres it’s not long afterwards that private invests; we will see a change in the town centre.”

Cllr Miller added: “We had to do something about Haverfordwest town centre, the previous plan seemed to be to let it wither on the vine.

“We’re absolutely going to change the fortune of that town centre,” adding: “Haverfordwest can look forward to a much brighter future than would otherwise be the case.”

Members agreed to note the report.

THE £11.6m Western Quayside redevelopment of Haverfordwest will “change the fortune of the town,” senior councillors heard.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Vet warn cat and dog owners after suspected poisonings

ALL VETS PET CARE has issued a grave warning to cat and dog owners in the area, urging them to exercise caution due to suspected cases of Anti-Freeze poisoning.

Several distressing reports have emerged, particularly from the Hakin region, specifically Observatory Avenue, where unfortunate incidents have resulted in the tragic loss of some feline companions. Pet owners are advised to be vigilant when allowing their beloved animals to venture outdoors without supervision.

The veterinary clinic has outlined, using social media, several key signs that may indicate Anti-Freeze poisoning in cats and dogs. It is crucial for owners to remain watchful for the following symptoms:

• VOMITING

•EXCESSIVE SLEEPINESS

•SEEMING DRUNK AND WOBBLY

•FITTING/SEIZURES

• DIFFICULTY BREATHING

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

If any of these warning signs are observed in a pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Concerned pet owners are encouraged to contact All Pets Vet Care promptly at 01646 663883.

The suspected incidents of Anti-Freeze poisoning have raised concerns throughout the local community. Anti-Freeze is a toxic substance that can have devastating effects on animals if ingested. It is essential for pet owners to remain cautious and take all necessary precautions to protect their cherished companions from harm.

One expert emphasised the importance of preventive measures, stating, “We cannot stress enough how crucial it is to keep a watchful eye on your pets, especially during this alarming situation. AntiFreeze poisoning is highly dangerous and can be fatal to animals.

“I would urge all pet owners to keep their pets supervised when outside and to contact us

Haverfordwest Woman charged with assault

CERYS McBRIDE, a resident of Princess Royal Way, Haverfordwest, found herself facing charges of assault by beating at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court. The incident in question took place on May 19, 2023, at Princess Royal, Haverfordwest, where McBride allegedly assaulted Kymberly Moon.

According to the prosecutor, McBride turned up at the complainant’s residence intoxicated and upset. It was revealed that she had attended a family member’s funeral earlier that day and had consumed around 20 pints of alcohol. Despite being offered the spare room, McBride disregarded the arrangement and entered the complainant’s bed during the night.

Reports indicate that when Moon instructed McBride multiple times to return to the spare room, she became aggressive and violent. McBride proceeded to slap her former partner in the face with the back of her hand, followed by attempting to strangle her using both hands. Fortunately, due to McBride’s intoxicated state,

Moon was able to push her away and break free from her grip.

Following the incident, Moon took her daughter and left the premises, while McBride continued to shout abuse. Moon promptly contacted a friend and subsequently involved the police, leading to McBride’s arrest.

During the hearing, McBride stated that she did not recall the assault and denied engaging in such behavior. However, the court learned that McBride had a previous assault conviction for a similar offense against the same complainant last year, which resulted in a twoyear community order in November 2022.

McBride was granted unconditional bail and the case was adjourned until August 1, 2023. The next hearing is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court in

Assault and criminal damage charges

HAVERFORDWEST

Magistrates’ Court witnessed a tense mention hearing yesterday as Benjamin Beasley, a resident of Plas Peregrine, Steynton, Milford Haven, faced charges of assault and criminal damage. The 34-year-old stands accused of assaulting Joshua French and Samantha Bolton on separate occasions.

During the hearing, it was revealed that on June 30, 2023, at Spring View, Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire, Beasley allegedly beat Joshua French. The charge against him is in violation of Section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

Beasley pleaded not guilty to the assault charge on July 3, and a custody time limit has been set to expire on August 25, 2023. He has been remanded in custody until the next hearing, scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on July 10, 2023, at 10:00 in Courtroom 01. The hearing is estimated to last around 10 minutes.

immediately if they suspect any symptoms related to poisoning.”

In a separate incident, Beasley is accused of committing criminal damage to property belonging to Samantha Bolton. On April 29, 2023, at 6 Spring View, Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire, Beasley

allegedly damaged a stairgate valued under £5000, intending to destroy or damage the property. This charge is contrary to sections 1(1) and 4 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971. Similar to the assault charge, Beasley pleaded not guilty to the criminal damage charge on July 3, and his custody time limit also expires on August 25, 2023. He will remain in custody until the next hearing on July 10, 2023, at 10:00 in Courtroom 01 at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

The mention hearing was presided over by Magistrate Miss B McMurray-Day, along with Magistrate Mr E Jones and Magistrate Mrs J Morris. Representing the defendant, Benjamin Beasley, was solicitor Tom Lloyd. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) was represented by Kelly Rivers.

The court, considering the nature and seriousness of the offences, decided to use a live link for the upcoming hearing. This measure aims to prevent any potential interference with witnesses or obstruction of justice. Given the likelihood of reoffending, the court denied bail for Beasley.

The trial is set to proceed, and Benjamin Beasley will have the opportunity to attend the next hearing on July 10, 2023.

Courtroom 01, with an estimated duration of 20 minutes. It is anticipated that McBride will enter a plea at that time.

In addition to the assault by beating charge, McBride is also facing a separate charge of assault by beating of an emergency worker. This offense, in contravention of Section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 and Section 1 of the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018, alleges that on May 19, 2023, at Haverfordwest, she assaulted Pc 645 Baillie, a police officer, who was acting in the exercise of her duties as an emergency worker.

The court has issued a five-year restraining order against McBride in favor of the complainant. The next hearing will determine whether McBride pleads guilty or not guilty to the charges brought against her.

Wales’ biggest ever cannabis bust nets millions

•

Police operation nets 52 arrests and seizes £8.7 Million worth of cannabis in south and west Wales

IN AN EXTRAORDINARY display of law enforcement prowess, police forces across England and Wales have conducted a month-long operation resulting in a major blow to organised crime. Targeting

criminal networks involved in drug dealing, immigration crime, and money laundering, Operation Mille has successfully disrupted

their activities while apprehending numerous individuals involved in illicit operations. The operation, led by the Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) known as Tarian, focused on dismantling large-scale cannabis cultivation, a lucrative revenue stream for organised gangs.

Throughout the month of June, the collaborative efforts of South Wales, Gwent, and Dyfed Powys Police yielded remarkable results:

• Executed 73 search warrants

• Arrested 52 individuals for various offences, including the production and cultivation of cannabis

• Charged 43 individuals

• Seized an astonishing 16,273 cannabis plants with an estimated street value exceeding £8.7 million

• Confiscated mobile phones, cash, and forged documentation

The interconnection between serious crime and cannabis cultivation is abundantly clear, as the drug trade fuels gang violence and territorial disputes. The operation’s success will undoubtedly disrupt these criminal activities and contribute to the safety and well-being

of local communities.

Wendy Gunney, Assistant Chief Constable for Tarian ROCU, expressed her satisfaction with the operation’s outcomes and highlighted the detrimental impact of such criminality on communities. Gunney emphasized the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies and external partners to effectively disrupt offenders. She expressed gratitude to all those involved in Operation Mille, praising their determination and resilience. The operation has also generated a substantial amount of valuable data that will inform future efforts to combat organised crime groups and protect those most at risk.

The existence of cannabis factories poses a significant threat to local areas. These illicit operations often result in extensive damage to properties, posing risks such as fire hazards, electricity theft, toxic fumes, and water damage.

To identify potential cannabis factories, residents should be aware of the following signs:

Frequent visitors at irregular hours throughout the day and night Blacked-out windows or excessive condensation, irrespective of outside temperature Bright lights illuminating rooms throughout the night Tampered or altered electricity meters, unusual cabling, and increased street lighting. Higherthan-average electricity bills may also be indicators. A strong, distinctive, sweet, sickly aroma emanating from the property, along with the sound of fans

Unusually high activity or deliveries associated with indoor plant cultivation, such as heaters, lighting, and a surplus of plant pots, chemicals, fertilisers, and compost.

Individuals with information regarding potential cannabis factories or drug dealing are encouraged to report their concerns online or contact their local police force via the nonemergency number 101. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or crimestoppersuk.org.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

LNG scaleback over storage fears

THE NATIONAL GRID has confirmed it has scaled back on the amount of Liquid Natural Gas it is accepting into Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire over fears that it could run out of storage.

The port has become a key destination of LNG, not just for the UK nations but for the rest of Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine in February.

LNG shipments to the EU often flow through Milford Haven because ports in the UK nations have a greater capacity to dock tankers and turn the liquefied fuel back into gas. Some countries such as Germany do not have the ability to process LNG.

But such large amounts of LNG have arrived from the US, Qatar and Algeria, that there are concerns

Carli Newell carli.newell@herald.email

that the UK pipeline system cannot move it all to mainland Europe fast

enough.

As a result the National Grid has reduced the amount of capacity offered at the port, raising the prospect of lower fuel prices for the winter ahead.

The energy regulator Ofgem which approved the plans said: “The issues we are dealing with are urgent and need action now to protect the interests of consumers in the event

that sustained higher levels of LNG delivery over a prolonged period are experienced over the summer.

“We believe that approving the temporary changes… will ultimately protect consumers from the avoidable costs that they could otherwise face as a result of the increased likelihood of constraints.”

However, LNG suppliers have criticised the plans, saying that they make little sense at a time of higher energy costs.

ExxonMobil policy adviser Chris Wright said: “There is a risk that the reduction in supply to the market could result in upward pressure on [British] wholesale prices which could ultimately feed through to end consumers.

“The very fact that this change proposal has been

raised risks significantly undermining efforts to deliver LNG to the UK market, and for onward transmission to wider European markets, at this time when LNG has never been in greater demand.”

Lauren Jauss, of German gas company RWE, said: “We believe that these arrangements are unnecessarily conservative, will deter LNG imports and hence increase wholesale prices and may present an increased risk to security of supply.

“We are surprised that the geopolitical situation in Europe is cited as a reason to reduce baseline capacity.

In our view, it is a reason to find ways to maximise possible throughput and attract LNG, not to propose arrangements that achieve the opposite.”

Linguistic roadblock hinders ‘Think Bike!’ signs plan

Welsh Government, hinting at the installation of ‘No U turns’ signs at the junction.

“I am beyond frustrated,” expressed Yvette, who traverses this route twice daily. “U-turns have never been an issue here.”

In response, Yvette has taken matters into her own hands and commissioned a local company, Signspeed, to provide a quote for a Think Bike! sign featuring both Welsh and English languages.

IN THE AFTERMATH of the heartbreaking passing of Ashley Rogers, a young motorcyclist, at the treacherous Nash Fingerpost junction on the A477 towards Pembroke, a family friend is encountering obstacles in her noble endeavor to install Think Bike! signs in the area.

Ashley Rogers, a 29-year-old resident of Kilgetty, lost his life in a fatal road traffic collision on Saturday, May 13, leaving behind a devastated family, including his fiancée and a very young son. Scheduled to be married in a mere two weeks, his untimely

demise has sparked an outpouring of support, with a GoFundMe campaign raising an impressive £32,250 to aid Ashley’s surviving loved ones.

Regrettably, the Nash Fingerpost junction has been the site of three fatal incidents within the past 12 years, prompting concerned citizens to rally for improved safety measures. A recent petition to address the issue has garnered over 10,000 signatures, reflecting the urgency of the matter.

Yvette Weblin-Grimsley, a close friend of the bereaved family, has been resolute in her efforts to erect Think Bike! signs at the junction as an interim solution until a more permanent resolution can be implemented.

“I am committed to preventing such tragedies from recurring, recognizing that it could be years before we secure the roundabout or traffic lights that are desperately needed in this location,” Yvette expressed with determination.

To achieve this objective, Yvette has been advocating for the installation of two signs on the A4075 Road leading towards the junction from

the direction of Pembroke. She recounted a conversation with Ashley’s mother during his funeral, where they contemplated the impact of a warning sign at Nash Fingerpost junction, emphasizing that even if it saves just one life, Ashley’s own life would not have been in vain.

Despite her relentless endeavors, Yvette has faced setbacks in her pursuit. Authorities informed her that bilingual Think Bike! signs, a requirement in Wales, do not exist.

“While this stance is understandable,” she acknowledged, “it immediately raises the question of whether a Welsh motorcyclist’s life

holds lesser significance compared to that of an English motorcyclist, given the prevalence of such signs at perilous junctions in England while none are available in Wales.”

Yvette further questioned the inconsistency she observed regarding temporary signs, such as those for road closures during events like the Long Course Weekend, which are exclusively in English. She had been informed that all temporary road signage should be bilingual.

Adding to her concerns, Yvette has received numerous emails from traffic and transport departments, as well as the

“In light of the apparent lack of common sense displayed by the relevant authorities, I have personally engaged Signspeed to prepare a comprehensive design and manufacturing quote,” Yvette shared resolutely.

She intends to present this quote during a forthcoming meeting with the CEO of Pembrokeshire County Council, who holds responsibility for the road in question, aiming to progress the situation.

“In my view, these signs carry immense importance, as they compel drivers to contemplate their actions before maneuvering,” Yvette stressed. “We urgently require Think Bike! signs to encourage cautiousness at this junction. We are striving to save lives here, yet we find ourselves confronted with a series of impediments.”

Cerys Lafferty cerys.lafferty@herald.email

Accident blackspot: The fingerpost junction

Clear and bright: Signs ‘save lives’

Wales’ NHs requires major

THE NHS’s future remains uncertain even as it celebrates its 75th anniversary.

The stark message from Wales’s Health Minister, Eluned Morgan, is that the NHS cannot stay as it is, and change must come.

NHS HAS CHANGED AND MUST CHANGE FURTHER

Speaking at the Bevan Commission NHS 75 Conference on Thursday, July 6, Ms Morgan was clear that change was needed to ensure NHS Wales can continue to deliver care for future generations.

Demand for NHS care has increased steadily as people live longer, often with more complex health problems.

Current projections suggest that the number of people diagnosed with cancer in Wales will rise from almost 20,000 annually between 2017 and 2019 to almost 25,000 by 2040. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is also expected to reach 17% of the population by 2035.

Eluned Morgan said: “The way the NHS works has changed over the last 75 years, and NHS Wales will have to change further if we want to preserve it for the next generation.

“The system is under strain like never before. Demand for services is greater than ever. We must ask difficult questions about how we bring about this change and adapt to continuing pressures.

“The health care needs of Wales have changed. We want the public and healthcare workers to work together to create a system where everyone understands their responsibilities.

“Central to this is addressing workforce issues, shifting our focus to moving care out of hospitals and into the community, and focusing on what is in the patient’s best interest.

“But we will also have to take far more seriously our responsibility to try and stay fit and healthy and manage our own health and wellbeing where possible. We need people, the NHS and wider society to work together to make a healthier lifestyle accessible for everyone.

“If we don’t – we know that really difficult decisions will need to be made regarding what services will be available in future.”

The Assistant Director of

Wales’s NHS Confederation, Nesta Lloyd-Jones, responded to Eluned Morgan’s speech: “We need an open and honest conversation with the public about what the future health and care service looks like. This must be centred on an adequately and sustainably funded NHS that is taking care and prevention to people and their communities, an NHS that empowers and enables, and one that benefits from improving public health. It must be based on an ambitious and honest partnership between

the NHS and those it serves.

“Change must happen. It’s simply not an option to stay as we are – we must consider the future and what part we need to play in it.”

The Welsh Conservative response, from Tom Giffard MS, banged on to no great effect and ignored the speech’s underlying message. He had no option. He knows – and the Conservatives know –Eluned Morgan’s speech accurately reflects the NHS’s position in Wales and the rest of the UK. The week the Westminster Government announced a 15-year NHS Workforce Plan, the Welsh Conservatives have not

produced anything similar for Wales.

AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH

While politicians celebrate or pay lip service to the concept of a health service in which treatment is free at the point of delivery, the NHS’s structures are creaking. They appear increasingly unsustainable due to declining tax revenues, modern and more expensive treatments to prolong life, recruitment and retention problems, and a rapidly ageing population.

Past failures to prepare for the known future (and now

present) challenges leave no political party with any credit. Devolved governments and the Westminster government are guilty of putting off until tomorrow things they knew they should do today. And now tomorrow has arrived, they have nowhere to go.

The main problem with producing a political solution to the NHS is that the National Health Service is the nearest thing to religion in an increasingly secular UK. And that’s no more so the case than in Wales. It is an article of faith that the NHS was born in Wales on the back of Welsh local insurance schemes and community hospitals. And

that none of it would have happened without a Welsh politician, St Nye Bevan, being there at the outset.

It’s a romantic tale. It’s also part myth and less than the whole truth.

Politicians appropriate the NHS for short-term political ends.

The slogans and soundbites come easily. It’s “our NHS”. “The NHS is the envy of the world” (it isn’t). “There are only 24 hours to save the NHS”. “This government is spending more on the NHS than ever.”

The truth is harder to swallow. The NHS is financially unsustainable in its current form. The integration of health and social care planned in 1948 never happened and shows no sign of happening anytime soon. Preventative medicine, which politicians now speak of frequently, was planned in 1948 and delivered only in piecemeal form. And the reason for that is not hard to trace. Demand.

THE PROBLEM WITH WOMEN

When Attlee’s Labour Government built on the work of William Beveridge to deliver a National Health Service, it did so by compromise. It also failed to account for the demand for previously undelivered services. The demand it failed to account for was demand from the female population of the UK.

Before the NHS, the patchwork of small local schemes was largely based on contributions to small mutual insurance schemes. Payments came out of household income. Household incomes came only from men. As a result of that funding model and inbuilt sexism in the medical professions, women and girls often went without treatment.

When the National Health Service launched, it was rapidly overwhelmed by women seeking treatment for health problems that had previously been ignored.

The Government’s estimate of the number who needed treatment was disastrously short of reality. There was a shortage of medicines and medical appliances. The NHS’s budget soon far exceeded even the worst forecasts. With the Service’s crossparty support, it became the political equivalent of a sacred cow.

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

reform to eNsure its future

There were serious staff shortages, forcing the new NHS to rely on migrant medical staff almost immediately. Desperate UK governments, especially under Winston Churchill, called for citizens of the Empire and, later, the Commonwealth to come to the home country’s aid.

PERMANENT CRISIS

From the moment it was founded, the NHS was in crisis.

While the economy and the tax base grew, as the latter did continuously until the 1980s, funding the NHS was relatively easy. Buoyant tax receipts meant money could be found for hospitals. Migration meant staff vacancies could be filled.

The model functioned, even if it did so inefficiently. The ready supply of staff from overseas, later from within the European Union, concealed the failure to train and retain enough staff from within the UK and the declining attractiveness of the NHS as an employer.

The attempt to introduce “market discipline” in the NHS and a series of disastrous reforms that atomised the NHS’s national structure and blurred lines of responsibility and accountability fuelled a fire under the Service’s foundations. But – and make no mistake –those foundations were smouldering well before those actions.

Put simply, ministers sat back, watching a well-known demographic timebomb tick

away, and made only token efforts to defuse it.

TAX, SPENDING, AND THE BIG NI. LIE

The UK’s tax base is far smaller than it used to be. That’s because the large post-war population increase, the baby boom generation, is mostly of retirement age or older. They are living longer and living longer in poor health.

The number of people who paid taxes and funded past spending through them

increases daily as they age out of the workforce. The National Insurance lie that there is a fund built up by paying in through working life has been exposed. If that were true, there would be no current shortage of resources as the Government would have enough saved to meet demand.

Whatever retired workers “paid in” has already been spent. There is no consolidated fund. There is no health insurance. There is no contingency provision.

Current demand must be met from the current shrinking tax revenue. The current Government has mortgaged the country’s future to the hilt. That means the room for any future government to make substantial NHS improvements within the current funding arrangements is almost non-existent.

Labour must know that the current funding mechanism is unsustainable and unworkable. Radical change must come.

Whether through a new funding mechanism or massive change to the NHS’s services, change will be hard to deliver and cut through sentiment.

NHS NOT DESIGNED FOR MODERN WORLD

The UK’s population is ageing rapidly, and the NHS is not designed to cope.

Wales’s population is rapidly ageing and has been for decades. The Welsh Government’s recent gimmick is to dump the

hospitalised sick and inform back on their families or onto overstretched GPs and non-existent community services for care.

In fairness, the Welsh Government has only failed where Westminster and Holyrood have failed. Inadequate planning, countless individual programmes and schemes with no connecting strategy, a collapse of accountability and responsibility, the fragmentation of the NHS into a mess of advisory groups, executive bodies, boards, trusts, and a chaotic administrative structure that encourages silo working. Those are common failings across the UK.

The Welsh Government’s catastrophic mismanagement of the NHS in Wales reflects what’s happening across the UK in every corner of the NHS.

The Welsh Government has undoubtedly done better than the Westminster Government in one thing: attempting to integrate health and social care and ensure the latter doesn’t collapse as it has in parts of England. Nevertheless, the Welsh Government claims it is ten years from establishing a National Care Service to smooth out health and adult social care.

When Eluned Morgan says the NHS must change, she states no more than the obvious. The issue is changing it to be sustainable and fit for purpose. At the moment, it is neither.

Pembrokeshire exceptions to Wales-wide 20mph limit backed by councillors

SENIOR Pembrokeshire councillors have backed local exceptions to the soon-to-be-introduced 20mph limits in Wales.

The Welsh Government passed legislation last July which will see the speed limit on residential, built-up streets reduced from 30mph to 20 throughout Wales from September.

Welsh Government says the 20mph default speed limit is expected to result in 40 per cent fewer road collisions, save six to 10 lives every year and avoid 1,200- 2,000 people being injured.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, meeting on July 3, considered a report of proposed exemptions to the legislation in the county.

Pembrokeshire County Council has proposed to retain 27 areas of the local

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

road network as 30mph limits by ‘exception’.

“In some places, a 20mph speed limit will not be appropriate or feasible,” a report for members said, adding: “In these locations, the 30mph speed limit can remain on the basis of an ‘exceptions’ process, which will be introduced by way of Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO).”

Since the 27 exceptions are a variation to the primary Welsh Government legislation, the council needed to establish a legal order.

Public consultation on the proposed exceptions ran from May to June 7, with a total of 78 representations received. Members were

recommended to make the Order, but with some minor alterations to reflect feedback from the consultation.

These included the C3041 New Road between Freystrop and Hook – to be progressed as advertised and monitored with a view that it will be considered further if supported by evidence; the C3185 Stepaside, the C3007 Sardis to Hill Mountain, and the B4341 Broad Haven Hill to be retained as a 30mph by exception.

The recommendation was later moved by Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett, seconded by Deputy Leader Cllr Paul Miller, who warned: “Before you know it, it will be 20 everywhere and you won’t be able to get from one side of the county to the other.”

Man released on bail following sexual assault arrest

A MAN arrested on suspicion of sexual assault has been released by police on bail with conditions.

Police had been conducting a major investigation in and around a property in the east of the county over a period of three days, earlier this week.

Up to fifteen officers have been involved in the arrest if a man in his 60’s on suspicion of sexual assault.

The police have been searching the property thoroughly from Sunday (Jul 2).

Witnesses nearby have told this newspaper that detectives have taken a lot of evidence from the property in large brown bags – and have extensively been searching the grounds and vehicles around the property. One vehicle, a white pickup truck has been removed by police.

The police are still at the property, one of several which make up a group of

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homes called ‘Old School’

A police spokesperson said: ““A man has been

arrested on suspicion of a sexual assault on Saturday, 1st July 2023. Officers carried out the arrest in the Lampeter Velfrey area. The suspect

remains in police custody at this time.”

They later confirmed the man had been released whilst investigations continued.

Two people airlifted to hospital

occupants extricated themselves from their vehicle and made their own way to the hospital, receiving first aid from the firefighters.

A spokesperson from the fire service confirmed that the crews had departed by 2:50 p.m.

TWO individuals were airlifted to the hospital on Tuesday, July 4th, following a three-vehicle collision.

The incident occurred on the A4066 near the community of Llanmiloe, close to Pendine, around 12:40 p.m.

TWO individuals were airlifted to the hospital yesterday afternoon, Tuesday, July 4th, following a three-vehicle collision.

The incident occurred on the A4066 near the community of Llanmiloe, close to Pendine, around 12:40 p.m.

Dyfed-Powys Police promptly arrived at the scene and implemented a road closure, which remained in effect for several hours.

The road was finally reopened shortly before 5 p.m.

The Wales Air

Ambulance, the Wales Ambulance Service, and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service swiftly responded to the incident.

According to a spokesperson from the Welsh Ambulance Service, “We dispatched two emergency ambulances and two rapid response vehicles to the scene, with the support of our colleagues from the Wales Air Ambulance. Two patients were transported via air to the University Hospital of Wales.”

The Wales Air Ambulance added, “Critical Care teams reached the scene by air at 1:27 p.m. Our involvement concluded at 4:14 p.m.”

Firefighters were also present and skillfully removed doors from one of the vehicles to rescue two individuals.

The remaining two

A police spokesperson provided details, stating, “Police attended a road traffic collision involving three vehicles on the A4066 near Llanmiloe at approximately 12:40 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4th, 2023. Two individuals were transported to the hospital. The road was closed and subsequently reopened just before 5 p.m. We urge anyone who witnessed the collision to promptly report it to Dyfed-Powys Police.”

To report the incident, individuals can visit the Dyfed-Powys Police website at https://bit.ly/ DPPContactOnline, send an email to 101@dyfed-powys. police.uk, or call 101.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have difficulty speaking, you can text the non-emergency number at 07811 311 908.

Please refer to reference number DP-20230704131 when providing any information.

Presenter Fiona announces Alzheimer’s diagnosis

•

Fiona Phillips who is from Pembrokeshire made the announcement this week

RENOWNED

TV presenter and broadcaster Fiona Phillips, who hails from Haverfordwest, has made a heart-wrenching revelation this week. At the age of 62, she has disclosed that she has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Having served as a former host on ITV’s morning programme GMTV for over a decade, Phillips has become a household name. Presently, she contributes regular columns to the Daily Mirror, showcasing her talents as a writer.

In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, Phillips expressed that she received the diagnosis a year ago, following months of battling “brain fog and anxiety.” She went on to describe how this devastating disease has taken a toll on her family, stating, “This disease has ravaged my family and now it has come for me.”

The arduous journey of Alzheimer’s was not

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unfamiliar to Fiona, as her mother, Amy Phillips, had endured the illness for the past eight or nine years. Amy, a former nurse, had been employed at Haverfordwest’s Ocky White department store. In her final years, she resided at Fairfields Nursing Home in Johnston, where Fiona regularly visited her.

Expressing her hopes for a cure, Fiona, a mother of two, stated, “I just hope I can help find a cure which might make things better for others in the future.” Her determination to make a difference echoes throughout her life and career.

The news of Fiona Phillips’ Alzheimer’s diagnosis arrived as a gut-punching, shuddering shock. Married to Martin Frizell, the editor of ITV’s This Morning, Fiona had anticipated this moment lurking in the shadows. Yet, the doctor’s confirmation hit her harder than expected.

“It’s something I might have thought I’d get at 80, but I was still only 61 years old,” she revealed. Fueled by anger, Fiona acknowledged the significant impact this disease has already had on her life and family, claiming that it keeps resurfacing within her loved ones.

Although she has kept her diagnosis private for 18 months, Fiona Phillips decided to share her story, aiming to eradicate the stigma associated with Alzheimer’s. Presently, she is participating in clinical trials at University College Hospital in London, which seek to revolutionize future treatment methods. As part of her current regimen, Fiona administers medication three times a day using small needles.

Kate Lee, the chief executive at Alzheimer’s Society, commended Fiona Phillips for her decision to disclose her diagnosis, noting that it raises much-needed awareness of dementia. Lee extended support and thoughts to Fiona and her

family, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to assisting those affected by dementia.

Hilary Evans, the chief executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, expressed solidarity with Fiona and her family upon learning about her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Evans praised Fiona’s courage to make her diagnosis public, emphasizing the positive impact it can have.

Acknowledging Fiona’s longstanding support of Alzheimer’s Research UK, Evans emphasized the importance of research in combating the diseases underlying dementia and the organization’s commitment to finding a cure.

With around 70,800 people under the age of 65 living with dementia in the UK, Alzheimer’s Research UK stands resolute in their mission to end the heartbreak caused by the disease. The organization expressed deep gratitude to Fiona for her steadfast support in the pursuit of this

goal.

During this difficult time, the community stands united in offering support to Fiona Phillips and her family. Fiona’s decision to share her personal struggle will undoubtedly bring solace

and inspiration to countless individuals facing their own dementia journeys. The battle against Alzheimer’s disease continues, fueled by Fiona’s unwavering determination to make a difference and find a cure.

Temporary car park to be sited on remains of old multi-storey

A TEMPORARY car park will be sited on the demolished remains of Haverfordwest’s old multistorey car park until a new Haverfordwest Public Transport Interchange is built.

At July 3’s meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members heard there was good and bad news in the ongoing plans for the near-£18m replacement bus station and multi-storey car park.

The scheme is part of the South West Wales Metro project and aims to enhance access to the town centre.

Deputy Leader of Council, Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change Cllr Paul Miller told fellow Cabinet members the “big positive” was the full value of grant funding had been secured, with an expected £2m total cost of the project to the council.

He said it was expected some £300,000 a year would be generated from the site, describing it as a strong return on the investment for what is hoped to be a “transformational” site.

Referring to the “less

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good” part of his report, he said no compliant tender had been received, with an alternative tender method now proposed, which would lead to a six-month delay.

“Instead of leaving that site boarded up I’m proposing we create a temporary car park on that site,” said Cllr Miller, adding he wanted to go “one step further,” with income from a temporary car park being ring-fenced for a disruption fund for the town centre.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Rhys Sinnett welcomed the news that Welsh Government “have the belief in us delivering this scheme,” adding: “The temporary car park will be welcomed by the public; I look forward to us being able to move forward.”

Members agreed to note the update, and that a new tender will be launched under the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework as a two-stage tendering process.

Members also agreed to the creation of a temporary

chargeable car park, with the revenue collected ringfenced.

A report for members said several options had been considered on the future of the interchange including abandoning it, which highlighted a number

Unexpected hike in footfall boost for retail sector

Diane Wehrle, Insights Director at MRI Springboard, emphasized the significance of the June figures, stating, “The month-on-month increase in footfall in June this year of 7.3% was greater than in any June since 2009, exceeding the previous record of 3.1% in June 2013.” This remarkable growth indicates resilience in the face of economic challenges and points to a positive outlook for retailers in Wales.

DESPITE concerns over rising interest rates and inflation, Wales experienced a significant surge in footfall during the month of June, according to retail experts MRI Springboard. The latest data reveals recordbreaking month-on-month and annual increases in footfall, indicating a strong consumer activity across the country’s retail destinations.

In June, footfall across Wales’s retail destinations rose by an impressive 7.3% compared to the previous month, surpassing the 0.7% drop recorded between April and May. Annually, footfall also experienced a notable increase of 6.9% in June, up from 0.3% in May. These figures are the highest recorded for any June since 2009, demonstrating a

remarkable recovery in the retail sector.

Analyzing the specific areas, high streets witnessed a surge of 10.1% in footfall, indicating a robust interest in urban shopping experiences. Shopping centers also experienced a substantial increase of 7.8% in footfall. However, retail parks saw a slight decline of 1.1% during the same period. Despite this dip, the overall trend points to a positive turnaround for the retail industry in Wales.

One encouraging sign is the narrowing gap between pre-pandemic footfall levels and the current situation. In May, footfall stood at -14.5% compared to pre-pandemic levels, while in June, it reduced to -9.8%. This suggests a gradual recovery, indicating that the Welsh retail sector is steadily returning to its pre-pandemic strength.

A noteworthy trend is the rise in high street footfall during evening hours. Post 5pm, footfall on high streets rose by 7.2% compared to May, outpacing the 6.7% increase observed during daytime trading hours. This suggests that consumers are increasingly venturing out in the evenings, contributing to a vibrant dining and entertainment culture in towns and cities across Wales.

While concerns over rising interest rates and inflation persist, the current data indicates that consumers in Wales are undeterred in their spending habits. The unexpected boost in footfall signals a robust recovery for the retail sector, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of businesses and consumers alike.

of issues including the need for a suitable facility and substantial grant funding already in place.

The report stated: “If the scheme were abandoned the grant funding would likely be lost (because it was approved on the basis of the submitted

scheme). In addition, there would be risk of ‘claw back’ of grant funding expended.

“In addition – the council would then need to progress any work from scratch, deploying its own resources, rather than the grant (which is currently already either

already held or approved).”

In late January, councillors heard a doubling of the costs of Haverfordwest’s public transport project to nearly £18m was not fully communicated with the public.

Busy evening for Tenby’s inshore lifeboat crew

TENBY’S dedicated lifeboat crew experienced a bustling evening on Tuesday, July 4, as they swiftly responded to two distress calls within a span of just over an hour.

The first incident unfolded shortly after 6:15 pm, when a concerned observer reported a kayaker struggling against the prevailing wind and tide near Coppet Hall. Acting promptly, the volunteer crew launched the inshore lifeboat and commenced a search operation. After a thorough investigation, they located the kayaker, who, to their relief, confirmed that he was engaged in fishing and did not require any assistance. Satisfied that no further aid was needed, the crew safely returned to their station.

However, their respite was short-lived as a second emergency call reached them at 7:40 pm. This time, a dinghy was reported to be adrift, gradually drifting away into the open sea off Saundersfoot. Without wasting a moment, the dedicated volunteer crew sprang into action and swiftly arrived at the scene.

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Determined to leave no stone unturned, they meticulously combed the area between Saundersfoot and Amroth in their quest to locate the distressed dinghy. Despite their exhaustive efforts, no trace of the vessel was found.

With kayakers and other boats in the vicinity corroborating that they had not witnessed any incident, the lifeboat crew eventually concluded that it had been a false alarm. Ensuring the safety of those at sea remained their top priority, they promptly returned to their station, reaching it at 8:25 pm.

The Tenby inshore lifeboat crew is renowned for their unwavering commitment to the safety of coastal communities, exemplified by their rapid responses and tireless efforts during demanding situations. Their bravery and selflessness continue to make a significant difference in safeguarding lives and ensuring the welfare of

seafarers and beachgoers.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), the charity responsible for the lifeboat service in Tenby, has commended the crew for their professionalism and dedication. These incidents serve as a reminder of the

vital role the RNLI plays in protecting those enjoying the waters and the need for vigilance during busy periods.

As the summer season brings an influx of tourists and water sports enthusiasts to the picturesque shores

of Tenby, it is crucial to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. The diligent efforts of the Tenby lifeboat crew are a testament to their commitment to preserving life at sea and underpinning the importance of their invaluable service.

For anyone in need of assistance or to report an emergency at sea, it is vital to immediately contact the relevant authorities, such as the coastguard or the RNLI, to ensure a swift and effective response.

Haverfordwest airport ‘must be run as zero subsidy concern’

HAVERFORDWEST’S airport must be run as a ‘zero subsidy’ concern, said Cabinet Member Paul Miller said this week.

After an improved financial position in recent years, the position at the council-supported airport deteriorated in 2022/23, members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet heard at their July 3 meeting.

The out-turn position for 2022/23 was £238,000, with a deficit of £180,000 expected for this year.

A report for Cabinet members listed a series of proposed changes to charges and costs, estimated to generate some £232,000.

The largest single source of revenue, fuel, would net some £175,000 on its own, the report says, by increasing the existing mark up of Avgas by 55p per litre and jet fuel by 45p a litre.

In the last few months inspections have also identified two critical pieces of infrastructure in need of replacement: aerodrome ground lighting, at a cost of £450-£500,000, and a fuel storage tank, at an estimated cost of £200,000.

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It is suggested these be addressed throught a business case for UK government funded seedcorn capital allowance to support the Celtic Freeport.

Deputy Leader of Council, Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and

Climate Change Cllr Paul Miller told fellow Cabinet members: “I am supportive of the airport being a working functioning airport in the county; however, I’m not closed to the view there are alternatives to how to work that airport.”

He added: “What I’m not happy to do is continue to see revenue subsidies ploughed in; the airport must

be run as a revenue-neutral site.”

He said the list of options proposed to keep the airport in the black included changes in fuel prices, which currently needed Cabinet approval, proposing they should be decided by delegated powers.

Moving the recommendations, he said: “The target here is to run a functioning airport with zero

subsidies.”

Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance Cllr Alec Cormack said there was a strategic benefit to having a county airport, stressing: “But we do need to get it revenue neutral.”

He said a need for Cabinet to decide fuel costs “makes no sense at all”.

Cllr Miller finished by saying: “I think the council can operate it at a nil

subsidy, I think we can. I think doing so strengthens our hand in doing other options, it’s a plan that feels like it has legs.”

Cabinet members agreed to the seedcorn capital bid for infrastructure improvements as part of the Celtic Freeport Outline Business Case, and the schedule of revised and new charges.

Council has two award-winning teams!

P EMBROKESHIRE County Council Leader Cllr David Simpson has congratulated two teams in the Authority for their success in the GeoPlace Annual Awards. The awards reward best practice and outstanding instances of data management by local authorities.

Pembrokeshire’s GIS address management team won a Gold Award for excellence in management of its Address information, and the Streetcare team won an Improvement Award for Streets.

Cllr Simpson said the awards were a great achievement. “They’re recognition of our staff’s

commitment to providing excellent services for local people. I’d like to congratulate them and thank them for their work.”

The Gold Award for address data is only given to authorities that maintain the highest standards in national tests on data excellence.

Nick Chapallaz, Managing Director of GeoPlace, said: “Data is crucial in enabling the connection of services to people and places.

“Not only is this data used by the local authority, but also by the emergency services to

respond to incidents, central government to manage projects, and banking and retail sector to provide mortgages and insurance.”

The Improvement Award for Streets was presented to Pembrokeshire County Council’s Streetcare team after they achieved the biggest improvement in England and Wales in all Annual Improvement Schedule criteria over the last year.

Streetcare and Parking Manager Marc Owen said: “I am very pleased we have been recognised via this award. We have worked with Geoplace to improve the street gazetteer and a lot of work has been put into to achieve the improvements.”

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Neyland Councillor storms out of meeting

IN A STUNNING turn of events, a Neyland councillor has dramatically stormed out of the monthly town council meeting following a contentious vote of no confidence, which he believes is completely at odds with the prevailing sentiment of his town’s inhabitants.

Councillor Peter Hay, a respected figure who has dutifully served on the town council for the past seven years, found himself at the center of a storm during the June meeting. A vote of no confidence was unexpectedly passed against him and three other councillors after allegations surfaced regarding secretive gatherings.

Expressing his dismay, Councillor Hay voiced his concerns to the local media stating, “That decision was utterly incongruous with the prevailing sentiment of the Neyland community, as per my interactions with its members. My name has been unjustly tarnished as a result of these accusations, and the electorate is now questioning my integrity. It’s truly disheartening.”

Clearly frustrated, Councillor Hay continued, “It appears that certain councillors are exploiting their positions within the town council to further their personal political agendas, and this is wholly unacceptable. It was due to these circumstances that I felt compelled to withdraw from Monday’s meeting.”

Councillor Hay remains uncertain about

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his future attendance at upcoming meetings, stating, “Naturally, I would like to see the vote of no confidence revoked, but more importantly, I long for the resolution of all these issues. The people of Neyland are growing weary of incessant squabbles month after month. I became a councillor to contribute to my town, as it is truly deserving of my dedication.”

Having diligently served on the town council for the past seven years,

MIKE EDWARDS

A WEEKEND away. A chance to unwind and escape the hurly-burly of semi-retirement and the glamour of tax accountancy.

The pretext for our break was a gathering of my darling one’s extended and protracted family. Uncle Ifan had carked it after howling at the moon while under the influence of several pints of homebrewed sheep dip and fallen off the shearing shed’s roof.

That meant traditions had to be observed. Namely, the claiming of the spoils. The missus’ lot are like seagulls at a chip wrapper when it comes to the post-mortem division of the deceased’s belongings.

glazing again. No innocent passerby should overhear the language that my darling produces on such occasions. I heard a chorus of howls from the nearby woods as the Call of the Wild recognised one of its own. It was all about a car park. We’d parked in an empty one with room enough for seven vehicles. When the wife popped out to the car to get the hobnail boots she keeps for family gatherings, not-Karen remonstrated with her about using the sacred tarmac. She claimed it belonged to the caravans nearest to it. Two of them were empty.

Councillor Hay has gone above and beyond his obligations, immersing himself in practical tasks and engaging in vigorous debates within the council chamber.

Councillor Hay reflected on his additional endeavors, noting, “Engaging in practical work is not an obligatory duty of a councillor. However, being a retired engineer, I possess the necessary skills, and moreover, I genuinely want to make a difference.”

This week’s town council meeting unraveled with members embroiled in a heated 90-minute dispute

over the accuracy of the minutes from the previous month’s gathering. The proceedings took place on Zoom, with members of the public in attendance. One such attendee, identifying themselves as ‘a Neyland resident,’ expressed their exasperation in the chat, remarking, “Sarcasm, personal attacks… what a load of rubbish.”

The future of the Neyland town council hangs in the balance as divisions within its ranks persist, leaving its constituents longing for a return to harmony and a cessation of relentless turmoil.

Prison for assault and order breach

HAVERFORDWEST

Magistrates’ Court witnessed a significant development in the case of Dewi Thomas, a 23-year-old with no fixed abode. Thomas was brought before the court on charges of assault and breach of a restraining order, relating to his actions against a woman.

During the further case management hearing on July 4, 2023, it was revealed that on June 26, 2023, at 42 Devon Drive, Pembroke, Pembrokeshire, Thomas assaulted the female by beating her. This charge against him is in violation of Section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988. Thomas initially pleaded not guilty, but his plea was later changed to guilty before the hearing on July 4.

The court took into

account Thomas’s guilty plea and sentenced him accordingly. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) was awarded costs of £85.00.

Thomas was sentenced to a total custodial period of 12 weeks, with 8 weeks specifically for the assault charge. The sentences will run concurrently. The court deemed the offences to be so serious that the custody threshold had been surpassed, especially considering Thomas’s previous offences of a similar nature. The court did not issue a compensation order due to insufficient details provided by the prosecutor.

In addition to the assault charge, Thomas faced another serious charge of harassment by breaching a restraining order. Between February 1,

2023, and June 29, 2023, in Pembrokeshire, Thomas attended the female’s home address, which was expressly prohibited by a restraining order imposed by Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on November 9, 2022. This charge is contrary to section 363(1) and (2) of the Sentencing Act 2020. Thomas indicated a guilty plea to the harassment charge on July 1, 2023, and the court took this

into account during the sentencing on the same day.

Dewi Thomas has been sentenced to 12 weeks’ imprisonment for the breach of restraining order charge, with the sentence running concurrently to the assault charge. The court determined that the offences were grave enough to warrant custody, considering both the seriousness of the crimes and Thomas’ previous history.

Apart from her late cousin Ianto, they’re all terrified of the missus. She knows where the bodies are buried. Especially poor old cousin Ianto’s.

The wife booked us a caravan away from the ravening horde. It was lovely. Well maintained, comfortable, doubleglazed, and mercifully free of knick-knackery.

When I finished shaving on Saturday morning, I noticed my wife’s absence from the caravan.

I mentioned the double glazing. It was very effective, as proven by the total silence in which I relished my darling and the sort of woman who could be (but is definitely not) called “Karen”, engaged in vigorous discussion outside.

As the missus came in, I moved towards the kettle to make tea. I needn’t have bothered turning it on. I could’ve boiled the damned thing on my dearest’s head.

I waited for the flecks of foam around her lips to boil away and asked what had upset her.

I was glad of the double

The wife told me she had pointed out the other caravans were unoccupied, as was the car park.

But Karen was not deterred. It was the principle that mattered.

The wife admitted she might have raised a provocatively quizzical eyebrow.

Or perhaps said something like, “who died and made you Queen?”

That enraged Karen, who said she had friends visiting who wanted to use the car park.

My eyebrows raised.

The wife insisted she apologised to not-Karen.

My eyebrows raised.

The wife said her apology went downhill after she used the word “sorry”. I braced myself for the full horror.

The wife looked a little abashed.

My eyebrows raised.

After saying “sorry”, she’d told not-Karen she couldn’t have known the car park was private because not-Karen had not marked her territory in the traditional fashion reserved for dogs of the female persuasion. I reflected on how that represented progress. She’d said sorry.

Ascona Group celebrated as one of the UK’s fastest-growing retail companies

ASCONA GROUP, the prominent Pembrokeshire-based retail company, is delighted to announce its inclusion as one of the fastest-growing retail brands in the UK. The Retail 25 Growth Index for 2023, part of the prestigious Growth Index 100, ranked Ascona Group as the 12th fastestgrowing retail brand in the country.

The Growth Index is widely recognised for producing an independent league table that celebrates exceptional growth and success among UK companies. It focuses on companies with the most rapid sales growth, highlighting their remarkable achievements.

In addition to this remarkable feat, Ascona Group is proud to reveal that its CEO, Darren Briggs, has been selected as a finalist in the esteemed ‘Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year’ category at the 11th annual Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2023.

For years, the Great

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British Entrepreneur Awards has showcased exceptional individuals who epitomise the very best in business and entrepreneurship throughout the United Kingdom. Darren Briggs’ inclusion as a finalist is a testament to his outstanding leadership and vision.

The winners in each category will be unveiled during the awards evening scheduled to take place at Grosvenor House in London on 20th November 2023. It promises to be a night of celebration and recognition for all the remarkable entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the business landscape.

Reflecting on these notable achievements, Darren Briggs, CEO and Founder of Ascona Group, expressed his pride and gratitude, stating, “It is a great honour for Ascona to be recognised as one of the fastest-growing retail companies in the UK

and to be shortlisted as a finalist for the Great British Entrepreneur Awards this year.”

Briggs continued, “In 2018, we embarked on a high-growth journey at Ascona. Since then, our business has experienced tremendous growth, with revenues soaring from £8.25 million in 2018 to an impressive £295 million in 2023—a remarkable increase of over 3,500%. Simultaneously, we have expanded our forecourt estate from two sites to an astounding 62 sites.”

Ascona Group now stands as the seventhlargest independent forecourt operator in the UK. This achievement is a testament to the success of their expansion programme and their commitment to transforming their assets into cutting-edge roadside retail destinations.

Briggs added, “I am incredibly proud of Ascona and everything the team has accomplished over the years, but we acknowledge that there is still much work to be done if we are

to achieve our goal of reaching 300 sites within the next five years.”

The recognition received by Ascona Group and

Darren Briggs serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone within the organisation. Their unwavering

commitment has propelled them to the forefront of the retail industry, making them a force to be reckoned with.

Milford Haven community projects benefit

TWENTY-TWO community projects in Pembrokeshire are to share in more than £346,000 in grants from second homes council tax revenue. The 100 per cent council tax premium on second homes in Pembrokeshire will generate circa £5m for 2022- 23, with 25 per cent allocated to the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant Scheme. The schemes being supported in the Milford Haven area are as follows:

FRIENDS OF THE MOUNT

MILFORD HAVEn

To add some weather protection, benches and planters to a small underutilised south-facing courtyard at the front of the centre. This would enhance the environment of the centre and offer a space for events. The community adults and children will be engaged to help make and maintain the planters.

Total project cost: £17,664.00

Grant awarded: £14,131.20

MILFORD HAVEN COMMUNITY SOCIETY

The project will employ the services of Oxford Psychometrics Ltd. to undertake a staff support and development programme at Milford Haven School. Poor school morale and lack of

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cohesion has impacted across the entire community and is having a significant adverse effect. This two year pilot will address that and enable a turnaround for the school and community.

Total project cost: £67,065.00

Grant awarded: £23,532.50

MILFORD HAVEN

HUBBERSTON AND HAKIN COMMUNITY CENTRE

This project is to ensure that the Hubberston and Hakin Hall meets modern environmental standards and good practice relating to energy efficiency. The installation of PV solar panels and a replacement boiler with zoning and temperature controls, will subsequently reduce the energy costs at the centre.

Total project cost: £31,275.64

Grant awarded: £25,000.00

MILFORD HAVEN SEA CADETS

To support residential opportunities, the group will purchase bunk beds, including mattresses, to create 80 bed spaces for weekend and school holiday training. They also host groups from further afield to access their facilities and quality training.

Total project cost: £18,715.20

Grant awarded: £12,015.20

MILFORD YOUTH MATTERS

The project will support the staffing of phase 2 of the MYM Pop Up Shop in Milford Haven. Offering young people a comprehensive package that will aid with physical, emotional, educative training and employability support. Providing them with volunteering opportunities leading to employability.

Total project cost: £47,980.00

Grant awarded: 27,980.00

Haverfordwest apologises after Sheriff’s ‘corruption’ claim

Late last month, Haverfordwest sheriff Cllr Arthur Brooker, who represents Portfield Ward on Haverfordwest Town Council, had raised his concerns while questioning the ongoing saga of the £18m Haverfordwest Transport Interchange.

In late January, county councillors heard a doubling of the costs of the interchange – which will replace the nowdemolished multi-storey car park and bus station – to nearly £18m was not fully communicated with the public.

Cllr Brooker had criticised the interchange project as “knocking it [the car park] down and rebuilding the same thing again,” adding: “Surely a transport interchange should go next to the train station?”

that’s in a really sorry state,” he said.

“Surely it would be better to spend money on reducing business rates and give rate relief to local businesses so that our high street will be filled up with shops.

“Because without them, who’s going to park in the new car park? Who’s going to come to the town?

“Is this corruption? Is it incompetence? Will someone please explain this to me because people are asking me what’s going on and I don’t know what to say to them.”

Haverfordwest Town Council has now said it wishes to put on public record that it does not support or condone the recent remarks made by Cllr Brooker.

are focused on building a strong relationship with Pembrokeshire County Council in order to communicate the views of our townspeople in a positive and productive manner.

“We support and appreciate the commitment from Pembrokeshire County Council to deliver on the regeneration plans for our town.

“We wish to apologise profusely as a council for any upset or offence [an online video of Cllr Brooker’s comments] may have caused to Pembrokeshire County Council and members of the public.”

Cabinet members agreed to create a temporary car park at the site.

An unrepentant Cllr Brooker responded: “I just want to make it clear that I am not apologising for what I said, and I stand by every word.

“The whole point of being an elected official is that you represent the views of your local community, which is exactly what I am doing.

HAVERFORDWEST

TOWN COUNCIL has issued a formal apology after its Sheriff questioned whether corruption of incompetence was behind what he saw as a lack of investment in the town.

He also called on Pembrokeshire County Council to invest more in the town centre in a bid to revive business and enhance the main shopping area.

“We have a High Street

“The remarks are purely the personal views of Arthur Brooker and they do not represent the views of Haverfordwest Town Council,” it said in a statement.

“We as a town council

A July 3’s meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members heard there was good and bad news in the ongoing plans for the near-£18m scheme, with the full value of grant funding secured, but a problem with contract tenders leading to at least a six-month delay.

“It would be fantastic if other members of Haverfordwest Town Council could do the same, rather than just being on there for the ego boost and a feeling of importance, ultimately wasting taxpayers’ money.”

He added that, since his initial comments, the temporary car park had been created, saying it was “what the majority of residents that I have spoken to about the issue want,” adding: “So I must be doing something right.”

Bird nesting boxes raises over £3,000 for Withybush

John and Sue Shaw have raised a fantastic £3,426 for the Medical Day Unit (MDU) at Withybush

Hospital.

John and Sue raised the funds by selling wild bird nesting boxes to family,

friends, the local community and businesses such as St Florence Village Shop, Priory Farm Store New

Hedges, Rabarts Pembroke Dock, Templeton Wine and Spirits, Cross Roads Garage Kilgetty, Mayfield Decking Pembroke Dock and Sea Land Pembroke Dock.

The pair raised the funds as a thank you for the brilliant support and care Sue has received from the unit. Sue currently attends the MDU for ongoing chemotherapy treatment for leukemia.

Sue said: “All the money raised from the bird boxes has been used to purchase much-needed new equipment for the MDU.

“Hopefully the new equipment will make time

spent on the unit more comfortable for the patients. It’s a way of saying a thank you to all who work so hard on the unit, it’s the least we could do to give back to the local hospital which in turn is keeping patients like me alive and well.”

Jenny Oxley, Senior Sister, said: “From all of the staff on the Medical Day Unit, a big thank you to Mr and Mrs Shaw.

“Thanks for all your time making and selling the bird boxes, your efforts helped to raise an incredible amount for the unit. The new equipment that we’ve been able to purchase with the funds has already and

will continue to make such a difference to our patients.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www. hywelddahealthcharities. org.uk

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

JULIE

MONDAY

HAVERFORDWEST

The Cricket Club

Dale Road, 9.30am

Tel: Julie 07786 440432

JOHNSTON

The Institute Church Road, 4:00pm, 5:30pm and 7.00pm

Tel: Kelly 07794 252 595.

PEMBROKE DOCK

Pater Hall

5.00pm

Tel: Alison 07792 490 723

CLARBESTON ROAD Memorial Hall

Clarbeston Road, 5.30pm

Tel: Jon 07519 996519

TUESDAY

MILFORD HAVEN

Pill Social Centre

RACHEL

Cellar Hill, 9:30am

Tel: Julie 07786 440432

slimmingworld.co.uk

TUESDAY

PEMBROKE DOCK

Pater Hall Lewis Street, 9:30am

Tel: Alison 07792 490 723

LETTERSTON

Memorial Hall Station Road

5.30pm

Tel: Jon 07519 996 519

WEDNESDAY

HAKIN

Hakin Rugby Club Observatory Avenue

5:30pm Tel: Julie 07786 440432

HAVERFORDWEST

Haverfordwest Leisure Centre

St. Thomas Green

5.30pm

Tel: Alison 07792 490 723

THURSDAY

HAVERFORDWEST

Haverfordwest Leisure Centre

St. Thomas Green

9:00am

Tel: Alison 07792 490 723

FISHGUARD AND GOODWICK

Phoenix Centre, Wern Road, 5:30pm

Tel: Jon 07519 996 519

MILFORD HAVEN

Pill Social Centre

Cellar Hill

5.00pm

Tel: Alison 07792 490 723

Milford United Football Club

5.30pm

Tel: Rachel 07391 634 033

HAVERFORDWEST

Portfield School (up from Tesco), 6:00pm Tel: Julie 07786 440432

FRIDAY

KILGETTY Community Centre

8.30am and 10.00am

Tel LISA: 07717417610

NEYLAND

Neyland Community Hub

John Street

9.30am

Tel Kelly: 07794 252595

SATURDAY

HAVERFORDWEST

Camrose Community Centre

Pelcomb, 8:30am

*Price shown is recommended retail price. See our website for more information.

Sea Cadets welcome new commanding officer

THE MILFORD HAVEN SEA CADETS AND ROYAL MARINES CADETS

were treated to a truly remarkable and joyous occasion as Lieutenant (SCC) Aled Davies RNR and his dedicated team organised a flawless handover of command. The event, which took place on Sunday (Jul 2), showcased the impressive power fleet of the unit and featured an exhilarating parade of sail, followed by a mesmerising display of sailing dinghies and kayaks. The day was marked by inspiring speeches and delicious food, making it an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

William Elliott, the outgoing Commanding Officer, expressed his gratitude to the enthusiastic participants and supporters who made the event a resounding success. Their presence and encouragement meant a great deal to him. Elliott also conveyed his heartfelt appreciation

for the incredible gift he received.

Turning his attention to the new Commanding Officer, Lieutenant (SCC) Aled Davies RNR, Elliott expressed his confidence in Davies’ ability to lead the unit with distinction. He highlighted the

exceptional group of adult volunteers and cadets who will provide unwavering support to Davies during his tenure. Elliott encouraged Davies to savour every moment of his new role, reassuring him that he has the full backing of the team.

Although Elliott officially bid farewell to the Milford Haven Unit on this momentous day,

he eagerly anticipates his upcoming challenge as the District Officer for West Wales in three weeks’ time. Before assuming his new position, he plans to take a well-deserved break and lend his support to the Area Combined Regatta as the Assistant Safety Officer (Rowing). The handover of command ceremony, marked by the hashtags

#HandoverOfCommand, #OutstandingDay, and #ParadeOfSail, witnessed the seamless transition of leadership, leaving a lasting impression on all those present. The Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets are poised for an exciting future under the guidance of their new Commanding Officer, Lieutenant (SCC) Aled Davies RNR, who

inherits the responsibility to steer the ship towards continued success.

The Pembrokeshire Herald extends its congratulations to Lieutenant (SCC) Aled Davies RNR on assuming this prestigious role and wishes both him and the Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets the very best in their future endeavours.

Private water supply users urged to have contingency plans in place

A NEW document produced by Pembrokeshire County Council encourages users of private water supplies to think about the safety and sufficiency of their supply and plan for the future.

Private water supplies are those that are not provided by a statutory water company such as Dwr Cymru Welsh Water. This includes water obtained from wells, boreholes, springs, rivers and streams and lakes and ponds.

The information encourages those responsible for private water supplies to have contingency plans in place should the water supply become contaminated or run dry and includes a handy contingency plan checklist to complete.

Insufficiency of supply is increasingly likely due to extended hot summers as a result of climate change.

Last week Wales was placed under ‘prolonged dry weather status’ by Natural Resources Wales.

The document ‘Guidance on the sufficiency of your Private

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Water Supply’ highlights that responsibility for a private water supply falls to the owner / occupiers of the premises supplied, the owner/occupiers where the source is located and/ or any other person who manages or controls the source.

Contingency plans should include arrangements for the provision of an alternative water supply and consider the amount of water required and type of alternative supply – eg bottled water, bowsers, tankers etc.

The document urges those responsible to understand what the source of the water is, who uses it, for what purposes and whether the supply has ever run dry before.

Regular checks on the supply are recommended, particularly during warm, dry weather. Checks on the quality of supply are also important with Local Authorities able to provide guidance on sampling for analysis.

You can find the

document online at: https:// www.pembrokeshire.gov. uk/animals-pests-andenvironmental-health/

guidance-on-sufficiency-ofyour-private-water-supply

For a hard copy of the document, email pollution.

control@pembrokeshire. gov.uk

information on private water supplies is

https://www. pembrokeshire.gov.uk/ pollution-control/private-

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Update on housing developments by Pembrokeshire County Council

taken place to applicants who were registered on the Accessible Housing Register in November 2022; both the successful and unsuccessful applicants for the adapted homes will shortly be notified by letter.

When Old School Lane is closer to completion, general needs properties will be advertised via Choice Homes @ Pembrokeshire with preference given to applicants with a local connection to the community council area of Johnston.

Further updates on the development will be shared when they become available.

community council area of Tiers Cross.

At this time the Council will also write to applicants who are registered on the Pembrokeshire Accessible Housing Register (PAHR) to ascertain their local connection to the community council area of Tiers Cross. Further updates on the development will be shared when they become available.

Cllr Michelle Bateman, Cabinet Member for Housing Operations said: “As both Old School Lane and Tiers Cross are nearing completion, we expect a lot of interest in these properties and allocations will take place at different times.

THERE are new updates for the Pembrokeshire County Council housing development programmes at Old School Lane, Johnston and Tudor Place, Tiers Cross.

OLD SCHOOL LANE, JOHNSTON

Unfortunately, underground investigations have identified faults with the utility infrastructure that provides drainage throughout the site.

Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) has been working with Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water to resolve

these issues before the site is occupied. This will avoid causing extensive disruption and inconvenience to contract holders after completion.

This has resulted in a further delay to the programme, but solutions have been identified allowing the remedial works to commence imminently.

As works are continuing on site, PCC plan a phased handover of the Old School Lane properties and anticipate that the first phase of properties will be available

before Christmas 2023.

This will include mainly general needs properties, allowing a selection of homes to be allocated before the development is fully completed.

It is anticipated that the handover of the remaining properties in Old School Lane will take place in Spring 2024, signalling the completion of the development.

Cllr Jon Harvey, Cabinet member for Housing Delivery, said: “We regret that further delays have occurred in completing the Old School Lane development due to circumstances outside our control, but the completion of

these works are considered essential in order to avoid any further disruption to contract holders at a later date.

“We have been working closely with the developer to ensure that these final works are completed as swiftly as possible and for these much needed properties to be made available to our residents, hence why we have agreed to a phased handover of properties as they become available.”

This development contains a selection of general needs, adapted and supported living homes. The allocation of the adapted properties has already

TUDOR PLACE, TIERS CROSS

Work has been progressing well in Tudor Place in recent months, with scaffolding imminently due to be taken down, which will allow for the external hard and soft landscaping to commence. A completion date of Autumn 2023 has been agreed with the contractor.

When Tudor Place is closer to completion, general needs properties will be advertised via Choice Homes @ Pembrokeshire with preference given to applicants with a local connection to the

“To be considered for allocation, it is therefore important to be registered with Choice Homes @ Pembrokeshire. Keep a close eye out on our social media pages, letters from the council and publicity about allocations of these developments.”

Please follow the PCC Housing Services Social Media for further development updates on facebook.com/ PCCHousing.

If you have any queries, please contact the Customer Liaison Team via housingCLO@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk or 01437 764551.

Herald attends The Welsh Business Show in Llanelli

ON WEDNESDAY(Jul

5), The Herald had the pleasure of attending The Welsh Business Show in Llanelli, and what an incredible event it was!

The venue was packed with businesses of all sizes from across Wales, bustling with energy as entrepreneurs and professionals networked, showcased their products and services, and embraced the spirit of collaboration.

The event provided a fantastic platform for businesses to connect with one another. Entrepreneurs and business owners eagerly exchanged ideas, forged partnerships, and explored potential collaborations. The atmosphere was electric, with the air abuzz with excitement and anticipation. From start-ups to wellestablished enterprises, everyone had something unique to offer, creating a melting pot of creativity and innovation.

The Welsh Business Show also featured a series of enlightening seminars that covered a diverse range of topics. Experts from various industries shared their knowledge and experiences,

Olly Coe olly.c@herald.email

providing invaluable insights to attendees. Whether it was marketing strategies, financial planning, or leadership skills, there was a wealth of information available to help businesses thrive in a competitive landscape.

One of the highlights of the event was the speed networking sessions. Participants had the opportunity to engage in quick-fire conversations, making connections and expanding their professional networks within a short span of time. It was a whirlwind of introductions, handshakes, and exchanging business cards, all aimed at fostering meaningful relationships and potential collaborations.

As the day drew to a close, the event organisers held a business card raffle, adding an element of excitement to the proceedings. Lucky winners walked away with valuable prizes, further enhancing the positive experience of the day.

Overall, attending The Welsh Business Show was

a remarkable experience for Herald.Wales. The event not only showcased the vibrant business landscape of Wales but also provided an invaluable platform for networking, learning, and growth. It was a testament

to the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation that thrives in the region. The Herald looks forward to attending future events and witnessing the continued success and growth of Welsh businesses.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Hundreds of pupils take part in third Crossfit Games

SPORT PEMBROKESHIRE and Crossfit

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Pembrokeshire joined together recently to hold the School Crossfit Games for pupils in local primary and secondary schools. Eleven primary schools and six secondary schools

in Pembrokeshire took part, with year groups ranging from Year 5 through to Year 10.

Crossfit is a mix of strength, gymnastics and

cardio and the participants performed a range of exercises. The workouts were solo and pupils also had to work as a team.

“It was an amazing

turnout and really nice to create a positive experience within a new activity,” said Georgia Osborne Davies from Sport Pembrokeshire.

This event has been

running for three years under the delivery of Sam Fenneck from Crossfit Pembrokeshire, which has sites in Haverfordwest and Tenby.

Charitable Trust’s business breakfast provides plenty of food for thought

THE PEMBROKESHIRE COAST CHARITABLE

TRUST first ever

Business Breakfast

Networking Event took place in Narberth last week, bringing together a diverse group of local businesses and entrepreneurs.

The event, sponsored by South Hook LNG, was a resounding success, providing networking opportunities and the chance to learn about the work of one of Pembrokeshire’s newest charities.

Guest speakers included Emma Thornton, Chief Executive of Visit Pembrokeshire, Lucie Macleod, founder of the viral hair care brand Hair Syrup; and Tom Bean, an Education Ranger for the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.

Joanne Griffiths, who attended the breakfast, said: “Working from Narberth for a global business, I was delighted to have been able to network at a local business event.

“The guest speakers were on point and covered local investment into our schools, how we are

working to attract and grow the tourist foot flow and how a young Pembrokeshire entrepreneur has successfully built a global

business using TikTok as a platform to launch and grow!

“All this on our doorstep – I for one came away feeling inspired from the event.”

Katie Macro, Director of the Pembrokeshire Coast

Charitable Trust, added: “We had an overwhelming response for our first networking event. The turnout was high, and we had businesses from across Pembrokeshire attending to connect and find out more about the

Trust and the projects we support.

“We are particularly grateful to our three guest speakers, who enthused everyone and showcased a range of exciting business development ideas.”

The Pembrokeshire

Coast Charitable Trust was set up in 2018 to protect the iconic National Park landscape for future generations. For more information about its work, visit https:// pembrokeshirecoasttrust. wales/

The primary and secondary pupils who took part in the School Crossfit Games.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Neyland Ladies Choir continues busy schedule

As June drew to a close, the choir found themselves immersed in a series of engaging events. Firstly, they were honored to receive an invitation to attend the Pembroke & Pembroke Dock Armed Forces Day Service of Thanksgiving at the Heritage Centre on Saturday, 24th June. The ladies showcased their talents by performing two captivating pieces, “Domine Deus” and “Ar Hyd y Nos,” during the service.

selection, and Lynne challenged them to identify the 15 songs that composed the final item of the Beatles medley.

Alison Davies made her debut as a choir soloist, delivering enchanting renditions of “Autumn Leaves” and “Over the Rainbow,” which were warmly received by all in attendance. Before enjoying light refreshments in the lounge and on the terrace, the ladies were invited to have a photograph taken on the grand staircase. The venue, basking in beautiful sunshine, presented a stark contrast to their previous concert experience on a wet and windy evening in November.

Rehearsals are ongoing as the choir prepares for their next engagement, which will be the opening performance of the Edge Festival in Solva on Friday, 28th July.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

FOLLOWING a successful charity concert in early May, the Neyland Ladies Choir had the pleasure of welcoming Ryan from

Get the Boys a Lift to a rehearsal evening. During this gathering, Sandra Western, the choir’s Chairlady, was thrilled

to present a cheque for £1000, representing the proceeds from the concert held at St. Clement’s Church.

Continuing their eventful month, the choir traveled to St. Bride’s Castle the following Thursday, where they entertained a captivated audience comprising holidaymakers from various corners of the country, ranging from Portsmouth to North Yorkshire. Under the guidance of Lynne Kelleher, and accompanied by Miranda Davies, the ladies presented a diverse selection of pieces that demonstrated the choir’s impressive repertoire. The audience particularly enjoyed the program

For more information about the Neyland Ladies Choir, please visit www. neylandladieschoir.weebly. com.

57.7% of adults in Pembrokeshire are overweight

FIGURES have emerged, revealing that a staggering 57.7% of adults in Pembrokeshire are classified as overweight or obese. This eye-opening data underscores the pressing need for action in addressing unhealthy weight in the county. However, when compared to the rest of Wales, Pembrokeshire’s position is relatively favorable, ranking 17th out of 20 counties in terms of obesity rates.

In a comprehensive study conducted by health experts at Now Patient, the prevalence of overweight and obesity in different regions of Wales was examined. The findings serve as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent importance of combating this growing health concern.

While Pembrokeshire’s figure of 57.7% is cause for

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concern, it is crucial to place this in context.

Out of the 20 counties in Wales assessed, Pembrokeshire performs better than most in terms of overweight and obesity rates. This ranking reveals that the county faces challenges, but it is not among the highest in Wales.

For comparison, areas like Blaenau Gwent, Merthyr Tydfil, and Torfaen top the list with significantly higher percentages of overweight and obese individuals. These counties face obesity rates of 79.9%, 77.0%, and 73.9%, respectively.

Acknowledging the need for improvement, it is equally important to recognize the progress

made by Pembrokeshire in addressing overweight and obesity. By proactively implementing strategies that promote healthier lifestyles, access to nutritious food, and opportunities for physical activity, the county has managed to fare better than many other regions.

While Pembrokeshire may have room for improvement, the findings of the study emphasize the collective responsibility to address overweight and obesity issues across Wales. By raising awareness, supporting healthier choices, and implementing evidence-based interventions, the nation can work towards a healthier future for all its residents.

For detailed research findings, please refer to: [link to the research: https://nowpatient. com/health-news/weightworries]

Seek a survey if you spot signs of Japanese knotweed

NATIONAL trade body, the Property Care Association (PCA), is signposting homeowners in Pembrokeshire to expert advice on Japanese knotweed.

The PCA’s Invasive Weed Control Group (IWCG) has been at the forefront of the invasive weed control industry in the UK and its members have access to a library of resources and training dedicated to combating the spread of Japanese knotweed and other nonnative invaders.

The invasive weed becomes more visible at this time of year - and PCA experts are advising homeowners to ensure the correct surveys and paperwork are completed if they suspect Japanese knotweed may be present

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

on their property.

Daniel Docking, Technical Manager at PCA, said: “It’s growing season in the UK, so now is the time homeowners are likely to spot an invader like Japanese knotweed if it is present.

“Japanese knotweed can be found in every county of the UK. It is tied to legislation, which means landowners have a responsibility to manage infestations responsibly.

“Recent court cases have shown that the presence of Japanese knotweed on a property can be missed or intentionally concealed, so we are encouraging anyone with concerns about the plant to seek expert help and

make sure any relevant paperwork, such as the TA6 form, is filled in correctly.

“Our ICWG members have a range of options to treat infestations, so it’s essential to engage competent Certificated Surveyors in Japanese knotweed (CSJK) who will have the specialist skills and knowledge to identify Japanese knotweed or any other invasive plants that may be present.”

PCA’s Invasive Weed Control Group (ICWG) is a collective group of industry professionals that provides clear guidance on best practice and standards, as well as being a reference point for property professionals and helping homeowners to find reliable, competent and trustworthy invasive weed contractors.

Opportunities on offer for apprenticeships in the hospitality sector

Young people in West Wales are being offered a unique opportunity to gain invaluable skills and work experience in the tourism and hospitality industry through various apprenticeship schemes run by the Bluestone Academy.

Applications opened this month for 12 apprenticeship places at Bluestone National Park Resort, near Narberth. The apprenticeships, which will include hospitality, Commis Chef, IT, and Maintenance Operations will begin in September.

Five apprentices began their places in the first scheme last September. Three are in hospitality placements and two are Commis Chef apprentices.

Helen John, Bluestone Academy Manager, said the apprentices would gain experience, skills and knowledge in a wide range of roles and a competitive salary.

“The tourism and hospitality industries are significant employers in West Wales and play a significant economic role. By providing young people with a step on the ladder to a career in the industry we are offering them a range of opportunities that could shape their life and employment in the area,” said Helen.

“The first apprenticeship scheme has proved invaluable, with the five apprentices learning and working in a range of roles. Their

colleagues and mentors have all been impressed at their hard work and determination.”

The current three hospitality apprentices

are working in guest services, retail, front of house, back of house, and leisure. Two Commis Chef apprentices will be working at Bluestone’s

Serendome, Hive, Tafarn Pub, and Farmhouse Grill.

Helen added:

“After 12 months, the apprentices will be expected to apply for a department to consolidate skills learnt. They will work in an operational capacity, for a minimum of 12 months, before the hospitality apprentices progress on to the Level 3 Hospitality Supervisor Apprenticeship and the Commis Chef apprentices to Level 3 Chef De Partie Apprenticeship.”

Pembrokeshire College is supporting the academy with the apprentices. They will spend one day a week at the college.

Neil Hillary, Academy Ambassador, urged young people to consider applying. “The apprenticeship could prove to be the golden key into a long and worthwhile career in the region’s tourism and hospitality sector. This is a great opportunity for someone to take that first step in their career.”

More details about the Bluestone Academy and the range of apprenticeship and career opportunities can be found at www. bluestonewales.com/ careers or by emailing Thebluestoneacademy@ bluestonewales.com.

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Llangwmlitfest returns with an exciting lineup of literary delights

L LANGWMLITFEST, the highly anticipated literary festival, is set to captivate audiences once again with its compelling program from August 11th to 13th, 2023.

Among the festival’s esteemed speakers is the renowned author Harry Mount, who will take the stage to discuss his latest book, ‘Et tu, brute?’ Festival Director Michael Pugh expresses his delight, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome back Harry Mount, whose book unlocks the wisdom of the past, revealing how ancient Latin can enrich our

lives in the present. With topics ranging from Latin for Gardeners to the Great Latin Love Poets, Cicero’s insights on graceful aging, and Seneca’s Stoic Guide to Life, there is something for everyone in this thoughtprovoking exploration.”

Adding to the festival’s lineup of literary luminaries is Ferdinand Mount, a highly regarded author often hailed as the thinking woman’s Tom Jones. Ferdinand, fondly known as Ferdy, will delve into his latest book,

‘Caesars in the Room,’ which delves into the realm of powerful figures. From influential Big Caesars seeking absolute social control to their Little Caesar counterparts aspiring to run agreeable kleptocracies without opposition, Ferdy’s book spans the historical spectrum from Julius Caesar and Oliver Cromwell to Napoleon, Bolivar, Mussolini, Salazar, De Gaulle, and even Trump. Drawing from his experience working with Margaret Thatcher, Ferdy also provides insightful commentary on Boris Johnson’s saga, which

he describes as a vivid, albeit Lilliputian, instance of a similar phenomenon. The book concludes with Ferdy’s astute analysis of how and why these aspiring Caesars often meet their downfall, with examples ranging from the Gunpowder Plot to Trump’s march on the Capitol. Furthermore, he presents a thought-provoking roadmap for reclaiming constitutional governance.

For those seeking a different perspective from the Boris Johnson narrative, psychotherapist Julia Bueno will journey from the enchanting town

of Bosherston to share her latest book, ‘Everyone’s a Critic.’ Bueno’s work delves into personal stories and offers guidance on silencing the inner critic that hinders personal growth. By addressing the voice that tells us we are not good enough, Bueno empowers readers to overcome selfdoubt and seize their full potential.

The festival promises much more than insightful discussions, with a variety of family-friendly activities, poetry readings, live music performances, abundant book selections, captivating art exhibitions,

engaging children’s events, and exciting foraging experiences.

The Llangwm Literary Festival will take place in the picturesque town of Llangwm from August 11th to 13th, 2023. For further details about the festival, please contact llangwmlitfest@gmail.com or visit our official website: www.llangwmlitfest. co.uk. Stay updated with festival news and highlights through our social media channels: Facebook - Llangwmlitfest, Twitter - Llangwmlitfest1, and Instagramthellangwmlitfest.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Get creative with the Torch Theatre this summer

FROM script writing to performing and learning theatre making skills –the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven is offering all of this and more this summer with our renowned annual Summer Schools. The schools are for people of all ages and will be led by the Torch Theatre’s inhouse professional team. There are two events to choose from Tall Tales (age seven to 11) and Hear Us Roar (age 11 to 18) with all these activities supported by The Ingles Charitable Trust and The Port of Milford

Haven.

TALL TALES is the first event of the Summer Schools programme and will take place daily from Monday 31 July through to Friday 4 August. The sessions run from 10am to 3pm and will see participants create their own fairy tale filled with fantastic adventures and magical quests.

The second Summer School is Hear Us Roar and

will be held from Monday 7 August to Friday 11 August with daily sessions starting at 10am until 4pm. In just a week, the young people will create a short play exploring the things that matter to them – involving improvisation, script writing, and devising techniques. We haven’t forgotten about those aged 18+. For the first time ever, we are offering an adult’s evening summer school. Show off! runs Monday 21 August to Saturday 26 August, with sessions Monday to Friday running from 6pm to 9pm,

and Saturday running all day from 10am to 9pm (including a showcase performance in our studio space). Spend a week of evening sessions developing your skills in performing with expert tutors.

All these provisions include a sharing at the end of the week at no additional cost, where up to four guests can come to watch.

Tim Howe is the Senior Manager for Youth & Community and is eagerly looking forward to welcoming people to the

Summer Schools. He said:

“Come along and be creative, and most of all have fun and make new friends! You might not want to be in the limelight and appear on stage, you may prefer to be behind the scenes, writing and directing. We can cater for all abilities, and we offer the warmest of welcomes to all with our inclusive and accessible sessions.”

Tim added: “We are aware that finances are tight and we are more than happy to discuss payment plans with you so that you can take part with us, after

all, theatre is for everyone.”

Keep an eye on the Torch Theatre’s social media page and website for news our autumn activities such as the adult community choir Torch Voices, Adult Creative Writing session and Skill Building sessions, as well as our flagship Youth Theatre programme for young people aged seven to 18. Visit the ‘Get Involved’ area of the website.”

To book your place on our summer schools, contact the Torch Theatre Box Office on (01646) 695267.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Local politician raises NHS Dental Services with First Minister

PRESELI

Pembrokeshire Senedd

Member Paul Davies has again raised NHS dental services with the First Minister, following an increase in the number of constituents asking for help in accessing an NHS dentist across Pembrokeshire. The First Minister responded to Mr Davies to say that 17,000 more NHS dentist appointments have been made available in the Hywel Dda University Health Board area this year.

Mr Davies said, “The First Minister was adamant that thousands more appointments have been made available in west Wales, but that’s certainly not what I’m seeing or being told by my constituents.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Access to NHS dental services has never been so difficult in Pembrokeshire and many people are struggling with the cost of private treatment or having to cope in severe discomfort and pain.”

“It’s crucial that everything possible is done to protect the local services we do have and ensure patients can receive the treatment and care that they need. We know that recruitment is a problem and the Welsh Government need to work with the Health Board to find a solution so that patients can access these vital services in Pembrokeshire.”

Community-Led redevelopment of former landfill site brings hope to Milford Haven

• A joint effort by Grwp Resilience and Pembrokeshire County Council seeks to transform unused landfill land into a hub for renewable energy, community amenities, and nature

IN THE HEART of Milford Haven lies an 8-acre parcel of land that has remained untouched since its use as a landfill over 17 years ago. Devoid of houses due to its contaminated past and uncertain future, this once-neglected area stands amidst a town known for its rich history in military, trade, fishing, and oil and gas industries. Despite its energy connections, Milford Haven, with a population of 14,000, grapples with pockets of deprivation and urban challenges.

However, a promising community-led initiative is set to transform this dormant space into a vibrant hub that caters to local needs while fostering environmental enrichment.

Grwp Resilience, a proactive organization dedicated to promoting community-based initiatives, has been at the forefront of establishing and supporting land for community growth since 2020. Among its passionate activists is Caroline Jones, a determined Milford mother who has tirelessly advocated for accessible land within the town for communal use, focused on nature and healing.

Working in conjunction with partner organizations and advocates like Caroline Jones, Grwp Resilience is also an

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integral part of the West Wales Climate Coalition (WWCC), advocating for sustainable planning that actively involves the county’s residents. Leading this transformative effort is Steve Keating, Pembs head of sustainability and energy, who shares insights into the ambitious project: “Pembrokeshire CC

and the community are exploring the possibility of co-designing a progressive solar energy and community amenity project on the former landfill site, adjacent to Milford Haven’s Meads Leisure Centre. Guided by Grwp Resilience, the community aims to utilize a portion of the land for community growth while preserving other areas for amenity use. Concurrently, the Council aspires to decarbonize the adjoining

leisure and youth center through solar power.

We invite everyone to join us in co-designing a comprehensive scheme that not only promotes renewable energy generation but also fosters community growth, biodiversity enhancement, and safeguarding amenity space for local residents. We are open to any other innovative ideas you may have!”

To kickstart this transformative process, a

family fun and ideas festival will take place on the site on August 14th, inviting all members connected to Milford Haven to participate. The event will feature games, activities, and brainstorming sessions, as attendees gather to discuss ideas for the land’s potential. The festival will host a variety of engaging stalls, including animals, dog displays, acrobatics, circus skills, tombola, children’s

singing, and games, with a special emphasis on natural healing. Moreover, Wally, head of the leisure centers, will lead an intriguing historic tour of the site. Council representatives and leaders from various departments will also be available for discussions, alongside talks from experts in social housing, local renewables, and landscape design.

The initiative represents an early instance of the Council’s inclusive democracy, as children will be given the opportunity to occupy the Council Chamber for a climate action debate. Though only one councillor was present to field all questions during this event, Cris Tomos, who championed Pembrokeshire’s achievements on the world stage in recycling and other areas, lost his seat in the last election.

With the support of Grwp Resilience, Pembrokeshire County Council, and enthusiastic community members, the rejuvenation of this former landfill site marks a promising step towards creating a sustainable, thriving future for Milford Haven. For more information about the project and how to get involved, visit the Meads Dreams Facebook group, or access details on www.grwp.org. You can also reach out to the organizers directly via email at hello@grwp.wales or by calling 07791 809 810.

Caldicot family still have hopes to find missing son James Nutley, 19 years on

IT HAS BEEN almost 19 years since James Nutley vanished without a trace during a golfing trip in the picturesque town of Tenby, leaving his parents, Catherine and Jeffrey Nutley, in an agonizing state of uncertainty. However, a recent surge of interest in the case has rekindled hope that answers may finally be within reach for the grieving couple.

On the fateful day of October 24, 2004, James Nutley, a 25-yearold golf enthusiast, went missing under mysterious circumstances. The last known sighting of him was captured on CCTV near the Giltar Hotel in Tenby at 23:57. Despite extensive searches and investigations, what transpired after that moment remains a haunting enigma.

“It is hanging over you all the time,” expressed Jeffrey Nutley, his voice heavy with the weight of 19 years of unanswered questions. “We were thinking ‘he’ll turn up in a day or two’ – 20 years later we’re still thinking ‘where is he?’.”

Recalling the events leading up to her son’s disappearance, Catherine Nutley described the ordinary excitement that filled the air that day. James, described as a “golf-mad” young man, was eagerly preparing for his golfing trip, seemingly content with his life and relishing his “dream job” as a golf club demonstrator. Little did they know that their lives would be forever altered by an

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unexpected turn of events. The moment Catherine received the news of James’ disappearance, everything changed. Her sister and a friend rushed to her workplace to deliver the heart-wrenching news.

“My sister said ‘James has gone missing in Tenby’,” Catherine recounted, her voice trembling with emotion. From that instant, their lives were consumed by an overwhelming sense of dread and the relentless pursuit of answers.

As Catherine made her way to Tenby, Jeffrey stayed behind, clutching the landline phone in

the desperate hope that James would reach out. By the time she arrived, the search for James was already underway, and the couple found themselves in a state of numbing shock. Sleep eluded them as the realization of their son’s inexplicable absence sank in.

The investigation into James Nutley’s disappearance eventually went cold, with few breakthroughs emerging over the years. The Nutley family endured the anguish of numerous false leads and even a false murder confession, which only deepened their pain and prolonged their torment. Richard Fairbrass, who confessed to the murder

and disposal of James’ body, later admitted to fabricating the entire story. In 2006, he was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison for attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Reflecting on the false confession, Jeffrey lamented, “It set us back a bit, it didn’t do us any good at all.” Yet, in the face of such setbacks, the Nutleys have not relinquished their hope of one day being reunited with their son.

Recently, the Nutleys shared their story on the podcast “The Missing,” which focuses on long-term missing persons cases. The podcast’s coverage has generated renewed interest in James’ disappearance, sparking a glimmer of

optimism for the grieving parents.

As to what could have befallen their beloved son that night, Catherine and Jeffrey remain haunted by unanswerable questions. Did James plan to meet someone and embark on a different life? Or did someone abduct him, shattering their lives forever? The possibilities, while filled with uncertainty, persist as they continue to hope for a reunion with their son.

In their enduring search for closure, the Nutleys have experienced moments of false hope. They have believed to have glimpsed James through windows or in restaurants, only to have those hopes dashed.

Catherine shared that whenever she sees a man begging on the street, she takes a closer look, just in case it might be her longlost son.

The passing years have not dampened the Nutleys’ determination. Despite the absence of tangible leads, they remain resolute in their belief that a reunion with their son is still possible.

“Well, you can’t give up, can you, until someone tells us differently,” said Jeffrey.

The couple refuses to accept the idea of a memorial service, as it would imply finality without knowing James’ fate. Their grief is suspended in a state of limbo, aching for resolution. “You can’t grieve because there’s no one there,” Catherine poignantly expressed.

Learning to live with the pain of not knowing, the Nutleys have carried the weight of their son’s absence while endeavoring to continue their lives. Catherine confides that she says her prayers at night, fervently asking for divine protection over James, wherever he may be.

As the renewed interest in James Nutley’s disappearance shines a spotlight on this enduring mystery, it is the fervent wish of Catherine and Jeffrey Nutley that this attention will finally bring them the answers they have been longing for. Only time will tell if their unwavering hope will be rewarded with the long-awaited reunion they so desperately desire.

Lifeboat launches following reports diver surfaced but ‘unresponsive’

ANGLE’S All-Weather

Lifeboat was paged for immediate launch at 2:19pm on Saturday (Jul 1) following a Mayday call from a local dive vessel reporting that one of their divers had surfaced unresponsive and was receiving CPR.

The lifeboat launched shortly after and made best speed to the vessels position, near the Dakotian Buoy. Also responding to the Mayday call were multiple dive vessels, HMS Magpie, the Water Ranger and a Port Authority pilot vessel.

On scene, the lifeboat went alongside and transferred two casualty care trained crew members onboard to assess and treat the casualty.

The casualty was now stable and breathing on oxygen following successful CPR from members of the

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dive party and crew.

Our crew members assessed the casualty and happy that she was now stable, the dive boat was requested to make best speed to the Port Authority jetty where paramedics, police officers and the Dale Coastguard Rescue team team were waiting to assist.

The dive boat arrived alongside the jetty soon after, escorted by the lifeboat and Water Ranger. Once alongside, the casualty was packaged onto a stretcher and evacuated ashore into the care of the paramedics.

With all crew and kit recovered, the lifeboat was stood down to return to station where she was refuelled and readied for service once again at 3:40pm.

The Lord Nelson

FEW buildings can truly say they lie at the heart of a community, in the 21st century especially, but The Lord Nelson on Hamilton Terrace in Milford Haven has more reasons than most to lay claim to that title.

It’s been beating away since its construction was completed in 1800, the then “New Inn” changed its name in 1802 after Lord Nelson himself visited the town.

Good times at ‘The Nelson’ hit full swing in 1879 when Milford’s elite danced the night away, believe it or not it was the first dance in Wales to be lit entirely by electric lights.

The Grade II listed building has stood strong for many years, whilst other staples of Milford Haven sadly fell by the wayside, The Lord Nelson kept those electric lights blazing and the drinks flowing.

But fast forward to 2023 and going out hasn’t been at the forefront of people’s minds, but doing their best to change that is local businessman James Findley and his business partner Justin Scale, who found great success with Coco’s, the popular restaurant he ran until recently down at Milford Marina.

When S.A. Brain put the building up for sale, many feared the end might be nigh for the building itself, worrying it may be converted into flats or, even worse, razed to the ground, but not one to sit back and rest on his laurels, James lept into action.

We caught up with James in the gorgeously decorated bar area and asked him what it was about ‘The Nelson’ that made him step in and actually buy the building himself: “Both Justin and I knew how important the building is, it’s at the heart of the town being over 200 years old and we definitely saw the potential. Yes, the building was in dire need of a massive transformation, something we’ve only just started really, but by doing that we

not only freshened the space up but the terrace bar actually allowed us to create 200 extra seats.

“We weren’t alone in thinking that previous owners had kind of rung the business out, it became stale and it needed someone to come along with a love for the building, an awareness of its history, and an understanding of the town as well.

“At The Nelson we can really flex our creative muscles and bring the town something fresh, exciting and, by creating nearly 40 jobs, it’s something that benefits the whole town too!”

So with a head full of ideas, James made the difficult decision to shut Coco’s so he could focus his efforts on breathing new life into one of Milford Haven’s most iconic buildings, according to James this felt like a natural next step, during our chat he told The Herald, “I’ll be honest, we outgrew Coco’s physically, plus we both wanted to move into running a hotel or a wedding and event venue, The Nelson gives us the chance to do those things and we found that opportunity really exciting.”

The new team at The Nelson have hit the ground running, the whole bar area has been given a fresh coat of paint and it exudes effortless class. The flooring has been changed, the natural wood, which is from a former roof, is there for all to see and it keeps the bar area looking fresh. The pictures that adorn the walls keep the strong colours from dominating and the overall result is a clean, modern atmosphere that is a real joy to sit in and enjoy a drink with friends.

Not content with just being a classy place to have a pint or two, The Nelson’s new menu is packed with delicious dishes, puddings and drinks that we’re sure will catch the eye of many hungry people, no matter the depth of their pockets. The new menu that James and his team have launched certainly caught our attention when we first saw it

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on social media, we asked James what he had in mind when he started putting the menu together: “I think we both wanted to keep the menu modern and exciting. It was important to us that we create a family friendly space for people to enjoy.”

“The menu took a lot of research, I’m not going to lie, and we found the best way for us to keep prices down is to make as much of our food as possible in house. It means we can be as competitive as possible with our prices and that our diners get to eat quality locally sourced meals that are also handmade on the actual premises.

“We take the quality of our food VERY seriously” and, as someone who can remember the food down at Coco’s (and their exceptional Onion Rings), we can already vouch for that!

Appealing to locals and visitors alike, James intends to re-open the hotel side as an exciting

‘boutique hotel’ as well as being a venue for events and weddings.

We asked James if he was looking forward to the challenges that lay ahead, he told The Herald: “Oh yes, we’re very much in it for the long run, we see The Nelson as a project that might take us up to ten years to finish, maybe even twelve as we’ve only just started sorting out the bedrooms for the hotel side of things.

“I’m 32 and I see this as my retirement, so I’m driven to make The Nelson as successful as possible.

“Yes it’s challenging, training 38 brand new staff members from scratch is difficult, but it just feels right for us and for the town, by creating those jobs for local people it means that we feel like we’re giving back to the town that means so much to us both.”

With clear support of many across Milford Haven, even local MP Stephen Crabb popped down to the rejuvenated Nelson shortly after it opened and enjoyed a drink and a chat with James and his business partner Justin Scale, Stephen Crabb wrote about the visit on his Facebook page saying: “Good to catch up with Justin Scale and James Findley today - the people behind the fantastic redevelopment of one of Milford Haven’s most iconic buildings - the Lord Nelson Hotel.

“They have done an impressive job on the hotel’s revamp and have transformed it into a stylish and unique boutique hotel experience with a complete overhaul of the bedrooms next on the agenda.

“Just amazing to see the time and money spent on breathing new life into this historic building and providing new employment opportunities in the leisure and hospitality sector in the town.

He went on to thank the intrepid local businessmen for finding the time to speak with him and for sharing their business plan and ideas for the future with them as well.

Always at the heart of local events, The Nelson welcomed members of Milford Haven Round Table on July 1st after a day of marshalling the recent, ever-popular carnival. James, Justin and their team welcomed those volunteers with a nice cold drink to reward their extensive efforts.

With a fully manned and stocked bar, the future at The Nelson certainly looks bright and, with James and Justin’s leadership, imagination, determination, drive for success and their hardworking team, we’re sure that the best times for one of Milford’s most beloved buildings might just lie ahead of it.

BEST WISHES TO JUSTIN & JAMES WITH THE FUTURE OF THE LORD NELSON, MIKEY, KELIAN AND ALL THE TEAM AT MDL..

GOOD LUCK TO THE LORD NELSON!

THE NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE is celebrating its 75th anniversary, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s healthcare system.

Since its establishment in 1948, the NHS has continuously evolved and adapted to meet the healthcare needs of successive generations. This commitment to innovation and transformation has resulted in remarkable achievements that have revolutionized medical practices and improved patient care.

The NHS has been at the forefront of groundbreaking medical procedures, providing hope and saving countless lives. From Britain’s first kidney transplant in 1960 to Europe’s first liver transplant in 1968, the NHS has paved the way for organ transplantation, extending the possibilities of life-saving treatments.

Dr. Sarah Adams, a renowned transplant surgeon at St. Thomas’ Hospital, emphasizes the significance of these achievements: “The NHS’s commitment to innovation and surgical expertise has allowed us to push the boundaries of what was once considered impossible. We have

witnessed remarkable medical breakthroughs that have transformed the lives of our patients.”

The NHS’s contributions extend beyond transplantation.

In 1971, the world’s first CT scan was performed on a patient, revolutionizing the way doctors examine the human body. Dr. Emma Collins, a radiologist at Royal Infirmary, describes the impact of this groundbreaking technology: “CT scans have become an essential diagnostic tool, enabling us to detect and diagnose various conditions with unprecedented precision. They have transformed the field of radiology and greatly enhanced patient care.”

In 1978, the world celebrated the birth of the first test-tube baby, thanks to the pioneering efforts of the NHS. Dr. Catherine Hamilton, a leading fertility specialist, reflects on this historic achievement: “The birth of the first test-tube baby was a defining moment for reproductive medicine. It offered hope to countless couples struggling with infertility and opened new possibilities for assisted reproduction techniques.”

The NHS has also played a pivotal role in

protecting public health through large-scale vaccination programs. Notably, in 1999, the NHS became the first health service in the world to offer the meningitis C vaccine nationally. Dr. James Thompson, an infectious disease specialist, highlights the significance of this milestone: “The introduction of the meningitis C vaccine was a major breakthrough in preventing a devastating disease. It exemplifies the NHS’s commitment to safeguarding the health of the population and demonstrates its global leadership in public health initiatives.”

Moreover, the NHS has spearheaded major medical advancements, including landmark organ transplants. In 1987, the world witnessed the first successful liver, heart, and lung transplant performed by the NHS. Dr. Rebecca Turner, a transplant surgeon at Royal Papworth Hospital, describes the significance of these achievements: “These pioneering transplants have transformed the lives of patients with end-stage organ failure. The NHS’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of medical science has opened new horizons for organ

transplantation worldwide.”

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the NHS has demonstrated its resilience and commitment to research and development. Dr. David Patel, a leading infectious disease specialist, highlights the significance of the NHS’s unified approach: “Having a single national health service enabled us to conduct groundbreaking research at an unprecedented scale. This collaborative effort led to the discovery of dexamethasone as the world’s first effective treatment for COVID-19, saving countless lives.”

The NHS also played a pivotal role in the global vaccination efforts against COVID-19. Dr. Sarah Johnson, the director of the NHS vaccination program, emphasizes the achievements in vaccine distribution: “The NHS’s unparalleled speed and precision allowed us to deliver the world’s first accredited COVID-19vaccine. We rolled out the NHS vaccine program with remarkable efficiency, ensuring that millions of people received protection against the virus.”

In addition to medical breakthroughs, the NHS has become a leader in adopting innovative medicines and treatments. Data from the industry demonstrates that England offers five treatments for every four available in Europe, along with a significant increase in the availability of cancer drugs. Dr. Michael Thompson, a pharmaceutical

expert, explains the impact of these advancements: “The NHS’s purchasing power has enabled us to provide cuttingedge treatments to patients while ensuring value for taxpayers. Our commitment to adopting innovative medicines has positioned the UK as a leader in healthcare.”

The NHS’s dedication to transforming healthcare extends to the integration of health and care systems. Integrated care systems across England have brought together health and care organizations to address health inequalities and better meet the needs of patients. Dr. Rachel Clarke, a general practitioner, highlights the importance of this approach: “By integrating health

and care services, we can provide more coordinated and comprehensive care, focusing on the overall well-being of our patients. It allows us to tackle health inequalities and develop proactive models of care for current and future generations.”

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the NHS has tirelessly cared for patients and responded to the crisis. However, the recovery process will require several years to fully address the pandemic’s aftermath. Dr. Richard Turner, an emergency medicine specialist, acknowledges the dedication of NHS staff: “Our staff have shown remarkable resilience and commitment throughout the pandemic.

We are proud of their tireless efforts to care for patients and navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19.”

To ensure the NHS’s future success, plans are underway to fulfill ambitious recovery goals. These plans focus on stabilizing and recovering elective care and urgent and emergency care services. The aim is to create a solid foundation that will support the long-term ambitions of the NHS. Dr. Emily Carter, a healthcare strategist, emphasizes the importance of these recovery plans: “By strategically addressing the challenges faced by the NHS, we can create a sustainable system that continues to deliver highquality care to every community. These recovery plans will guide us in the right direction.”

As the NHS looks ahead to the future, embracing innovation remains a top priority. The use of IT and data, integration of health and social care, preventive measures, and genomicsbased medicine are crucial to deliver better outcomes for the growing population. Dr. James Morris, a digital health expert, underscores the significance of innovation: “Embracing new technologies and approaches is key to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of our population. By harnessing innovation, we can enhance patient care and improve health outcomes.”

Innovation for future generations also involves the development of specialized

services. The NHS National Centre for Gaming Disorders provides support to individuals with gaming disorders, while specialist addiction services address the needs of those suffering from gambling disorders. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a mental health specialist, highlights the importance of these services: “Addressing mental health issues, including gaming and gambling disorders, is essential for the well-being of individuals and society as a whole. The NHS’s commitment to specialized services demonstrates our dedication to comprehensive care.”

Looking to the future, the NHS aims to preserve its core principles while addressing the underlying issues behind growing healthcare demand, workforce constraints, and changing health needs. Dr. Daniel Wilson, a healthcare policy expert, stresses the importance of these efforts: “To ensure the NHS’s continued success, we must confront the challenges that lie ahead. By addressing these issues and embracing future opportunities, we can shape a healthcare system that remains the envy of the world.”

The NHS’s legacy of innovation, transformation, and dedication has shaped the past 75 years of healthcare in the UK. As the NHS celebrates this milestone, it continues to evolve, adapt, and provide world-class care to patients across the nation.

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The welsh punk who saved Johnny Cash’s career

THE name Johnny Cash is now almost synonymous with the terms “legend” and “rock star”, but in the 1980s, it was anything but.

Having been dropped by his record label after 30 years, his career was all but over.

That is until a Welsh punk stepped in and saved his career, putting the man back on track, ensuring his legacy will now live on in the hearts of music lovers forever.

Jon Langford was a huge fan of Cash and at a gig in 1988 at the Manchester Apollo, managed to get backstage to meet the man himself.

It was there he told the musician that he and some friends wanted to record a tribute album to him.

Langford, who made his name in The Mekons, said: “Honestly, I had no idea he was at such a low point in terms of credibility back then, even though his audiences were very much made up of the blue rinse brigade.

“But Johnny’s guitarist later told me he’d been really depressed at the time and was feeling a bit ignored and irrelevant.

“So he’d apparently been very flattered that I’d approached him and loved the fact there was a whole new generation of people out there who’d cottoned on to his music.”

Langford and former The Fall member (and now longtime BBC Radio personality) Marc Riley put together a 1988 compilation titled ‘Til Things Are Brighter … A Tribute To Johnny Cash.

“I had grown up listening to him as a really young kid, and it stayed with me,” Riley says.

“But he wasn’t on the radar for most people who grew up listening to Bowie and the Stooges. We’d go and see him through the 1980s at the Manchester Apollo or the Palace, or in Blackpool, and 95% of his audience was the purplerinse brigade. It was close to cabaret.

“There was no credibility associated with it – he was probably at his lowest point of cool.”

Langford recalls:

“There were no youthful hipsters at his gigs. Me and

Marc were definitely the youngest people there.”

The album of songs made famous by “The Man In Black” featured contributions from the likes of The Mekons, Michelle Shocked, The Buzzcocks’

Pete Shelley, Microdisney and Fatima Mansions’

Cathal Coughlan, Gaye

Bykers On

The compilation raised money for the Terrence Higgins Trust, the United Kingdom’s leading HIV and sexual health charity that provides a variety of services, runs community projects and campaigns on

issues.

“We felt that it was really important to stick your head up and say something,” says Langford.

“Cash was great because he really got behind it.”

The Guardian describes the album as: “Raw, raucous,

musicians was the first step on a long road back to critical and commercial relevance, following a decade in which he had slid into something close to cultural inconsequence.”

‘Til Things Are Brighter wasn’t a lavish affair. Langford, Riley and their house band “bashed out” all 13 backing tracks in a single day at RikRak studio in Leeds; the vocalists added their contributions over the next few weeks at Berry Street studios in Clerkenwell.

Michelle Shocked galloped through One Piece at a Time, and the Triffids’ David McComb crooned Country Boy, a 1957 Cash original.

Langford recalls: “Marc Almond, the one “proper” pop star taking part, came in and told me I’d cut Man in Black in the wrong key. He had a horrible fit in the studio. Sally [Timms, from the Mekons] talked him down and coaxed this fantastic performance out of him, but I think he was a bit nervous.

“It was maybe a bit odd for him to be doing Johnny Cash songs.”

Cash thoroughly approved. He was thrilled at a new generation of musicians interpreting his songs.

When he toured the UK in May 1988, he hooked up with Riley and Langford backstage at Manchester Apollo and posed for the photo that was used on the back of ‘Til Things Are Brighter.

In 1989, while being interviewed by the BBC, he held a copy of the album up for the camera, reeled off a few of the artists –“Tracey and Melissa from Voice of the Beehive” –and said how proud he was of the album these “young people” had made.

occasionally rather ropey tribute, yet also oddly auspicious. Incongruous though it seems for such a quintessentially American artist to find his oeuvre redefined in the studios and pubs of Leeds, Manchester and London, Cash’s affiliation with this ragged group of British-based

Cash, however, was genuinely peeved when he discovered that the album launch at the Old Pied Bull pub in Islington was going to be held just days after he was scheduled to leave the UK.

“I wish I’d known, June and I would have stayed over.”

“He would have done it, too,” says Langford. “Sharing a dressing room with Frank Sidebottom …”

Acid’s Mary Mary and Soft Cell’s Marc Almond.

Welsh rocker Jon Langford

Fuzzy Logic: the story of the Super Furry Animals

ALONG with the Stereophonics and Manic Street Preachers, the Super Furry Animals have defined an era of rock music from Wales.

Since their formation, the band has consisted of Gruff Rhys (lead vocals, guitar), Huw Bunford (lead guitar, vocals), Guto Pryce (bass guitar), Cian Ciaran (keyboards, synthesisers, various electronics, occasional guitar, vocals) and Dafydd Ieuan (drums, vocals). Actor Rhys Ifans is a former member.

Super Furry Animals formed in Cardiff after being in various other Welsh bands and techno outfits in the area.

Rhys, Ieuan and Pryce had been together since the early 1990s and had toured France as a techno group.

After Bunford and Ciaran (Ieuan’s younger brother) joined, they wrote some songs, and in 1995 signed to Ankst, a Welsh indie label. The band are considered to be part of the renaissance of Welsh music.

After gigging in London in late 1995, they were noticed by Creation Records boss Alan McGee at the Camden Monarch club, who signed them to his label.

In February 1996, the band’s debut on Creation, “Hometown Unicorn”, became New Musical Express’s Single of the Week, chosen by guest reviewers Pulp, and the first Super Furry Animals single to chart in the UK Top 50, peaking at No. 47.

The follow-up, a rerecording of “God! Show Me Magic”, charted at No. 33 upon release in April 1996 and also became NME single of the week. Rawer than the “Moog Droog” version, it clocks in at 1 min 50 secs.

In May, their debut album Fuzzy Logic was released, to wide critical acclaim. Sales were slow, with the album peaking at No. 23 in the charts, but it garnered a little more interest when next single “Something 4 the Weekend” (a reworked, more mellow version of the album track) was given considerable radio airplay

and charted at No. 18 in July 1996.

In 1999, NME readers named them ‘best new band’ in January (this despite the fact it was now three years since they released their debut album).

In May, the single “Northern Lites” was released and made No. 11 in the charts. A dense production, with steel drums clattering out a calypso rhythm whilst Rhys sang an irreverent lyric about the El Niño-Southern Oscillation weather phenomenon, it was an apt taster for the new album, Guerrilla.

With the demise of Creation, SFA needed to find a new label for their next album. Sony had long held a substantial stake in Creation and offered deals to many ex-Creation artists, including SFA, who signed with one of Sony’s

subsidiaries, Epic.

The band pushed for a deal which allowed them to take a new album elsewhere if the label wasn’t interested in releasing it –thereby allowing them to find a home for any esoteric project they might want to undertake in the future.

The greater resources afforded them by Epic were apparent in their first album for the label, Rings Around the World, an album that recaptured the cohesive, experimental feel of Guerrilla but more song-driven and sonically expansive.

It is cited by many critics and fans alike as their most polished and accessible work. Again the first single was a good indication of what was to come: “Juxtapozed with U”, released in July 2001, was a lush soul record which made No. 14 in the charts.

The album followed in

the same month and major label marketing muscle made it their biggest-seller to date, reaching No. 3 in the album charts.

The next album, Phantom Power, relied less on sound experimentation and proved to be a more stripped-down, backto-basics recording in contrast to the orchestral Rings Around the World. It was also released as both a CD and DVD album in July 2003, preceded by a single, “Golden Retriever”, in June (chart No. 13).

Perhaps recognising that their approach to Phantom Power had been a little too straightforward, the group followed it up in 2004 with a remix version, Phantom Phorce, with tracks reworked by the likes of Killa Kela, Four Tet and Brave Captain.

They accompanied this with a download single, “Slow Life”,

via their website.

The album’s progress was recorded in a series of short films that were shown on the band’s website in the build-up to the release. Later in March, they performed the record in its entirety through an exclusive stream on their website.

A physical release on Rough Trade Records followed on 21 April, resulting in a number 23 UK Chart placement. Dark Days/Light Years notably featured a guest appearance from Nick McCarthy of Franz Ferdinand on “Inaugural Trams.”

Dark Days/Light Years received strong critical feedback, with The Guardian writing that “it has more spark and invention than most teen bands manage on their debuts.”

In 2010, Super Furry Animals went on what became a five-year hiatus, as bassist Guto Pryce revealed in an interview with Wales Online. Pryce noted that the band expected to reconvene as soon as the members finished with the various projects they were working on.

which also included the track “Motherfokker”, a collaboration with Goldie Lookin Chain.

In October 2004 the band released a best of album, Songbook: The Singles, Vol. 1, accompanied by a single.

In August 2005, Super Furry Animals released their seventh studio effort, Love Kraft, recorded in Spain. This represented a departure from their previous working methods: although all five members had always contributed to the development of the songs, Rhys had been the main songwriter.

On Love Kraft this was no longer the case, as Rhys, Bunford, Ieuan and Ciaran all contributed songs and lead vocals.

On 16 March 2009, Super Furry Animals released their ninth and final studio album, Dark Days/Light Years, digitally

In May 2015, the band played several gigs from early May to September to accompany a major reissue of their 15-year-old album Mwng, which had been out of print. The same month a biography, Rise of the Super Furry Animals, was published by HarperCollins.

In January 2016, the band announced their first North American tour in six years.

In May 2016, the band released “Bing Bong”, their first single in seven years.

The song was released to celebrate the Wales national football team’s qualification for UEFA Euro 2016.

They headlined the Caught by the River Festival in August 2016 and announced the rerelease of Fuzzy Logic. A compilation album, Zoom! The Best of 1995–2016, was released on 4 November 2016. The final tour of their reunion, in which they played both Fuzzy Logic and Radiator in full across the UK and Ireland, took place in December 2016.

Twin Town: a cultural milestone for Wales?

IF you live in Wales, there’s a good chance you can quote at least one line from Twin Town.

Heck, there’s a good chance you can quote multiple.

This is because Twin Town is perhaps Wales’ greatest movie, capturing the raw essence of its era, with it’s quick quips and dark humour.

You don’t have to be Welsh to love the film, however, as it probably ranks up as one of Wales’ greatest cultural milestones, with fans spread out across the world.

It follows the exploits of tearaway “twins” Jeremy and Julian Lewis (Rhys Ifans and real life brother Llyr Evans), opening with panoramic shots of Swansea as they race a stolen BMW through the cobbled streets of Mount Pleasant.

The film follows the Lewis’ car thefts and drug-taking and their ongoing feud with local businessman, rugby enthusiast and parttime drug dealer Bryn Cartwright (William Thomas), after the brothers’ father, Fatty Lewis (Huw Ceredig), falls from the roof of Cartwright’s rugby club while carrying out a “hobble”.

Cartwright refuses to compensate Fatty for his accident, and, as the tit-for-tat escalates, Cartwright enlists corrupt policemen Terry and Greyo (Dougray Scott and Dorien Thomas), before the plot turns murderous.

When it was released in 1997, Kevin Allen’s directorial debut drew some criticism for both its abundant profanity and its perceived negative portrayal of Swansea.

At the time, it was described by some as “sordid”, with fears it might even affect visitor numbers to Wales.

Then-Liverpool Liberal Democrat MP David Alton described it as “sordid and squalid, plunging new depths of depravity”.

The Wales Tourist Board criticised its potential impact on visitor-numbers to the nearby Gower, while police chiefs raised objections to the depiction of habituallycorrupt officers.

But film critics took a kinder view, with Twin Town receiving a nomination at the Berlin Film Festival.

And according to Welsh

comedian, film critic and social commentator Gary Slaymaker, it has only got better since.

“I don’t think people knew quite what to make of Twin Town when it first came out; it was so different to anything which had gone before,” he said.

“Up until that point, Welsh films had all portrayed a slightly twee, chocolatebox Wales of miners and

male voice choirs and so on. Twin Town came along and made people take notice by belching in their faces.

“It’s funny precisely because it’s real. We all know someone like Fatty Lewis or Bryn Cartwright, and whilst we might not want to acknowledge that reality, we still chuckle at the recognition.”

Mr Slaymaker believes Twin Town has put

Swansea on the map in the same way as Trainspotting did for Edinburgh, or The Commitments did for Dublin.

He said: “They are all very different films, and I know for a fact that Kevin Allen (Twin Town’s director and co-writer) doesn’t really appreciate the comparison with Trainspotting.

“But what all three do is perfectly capture the

throughout the world can quote me entire passages.

“I used to go out with Sue Roderick who played Bryn’s wife Lucy, and it was impossible for us to have a drink or a meal without someone coming up and asking about the film.”

Roger Ebert’s view of the film was mixed, stating:

“Twin Town” is a grotty examination of sordid lives, a reminder that many colorful characters are colorful only from a distance. The movie takes place in Swansea, Wales, a town that the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas once referred to as “the graveyard of ambition”–and he was a local boy, mind you. I have friends who live there, and who assure me that most of the events in the film take place on the other side of town. I hope for their sake they are right.

“I was not sure where the movie wanted to go and what it wanted to do–this despite the fact that it goes many places and does too much. Somewhere buried within it is a sweeter, more light-hearted story about its feckless lads, and then the hard-edged “Trainspotting” angle seems to have been added. But while “Trainspotting” had a clear vision and found a way to more confidently distinguish between comedy and the appalling, “Twin Town” is less sure-footed.

zeitgeist of a place in a particular moment in time. That slightly shabby, postindustrial Swansea is largely gone now, but in a way I miss it, so I suppose I find Twin Town quite nostalgic.

“I thought it was a particularly Welsh sense of humour which wouldn’t travel well, but I’ve been astonished by how many people in England and

“The movie’s executive producers are Danny Boyle and Andrew MacDonald, who were the director and producer of “Trainspotting.” Its director, Kevin Allen, is the brother of Keith Allen, an actor in “Trainspotting.” The connection is obvious: This film wants to do for (or to) Wales what the other did for Scotland. Some audiences will have trouble with the accents, but I find that in films like this (and Gary Oldman’s much superior new “Nil by Mouth”), it isn’t the words but the music, and you can nearly always sense pretty easily what is being said. “Twin Town” makes things easier by using variations of the same four-letter word as roughly a sixth of its dialogue.”

Despite this, the film was entered into the 47th Berlin International Film Festival.

As talk of a sequel continues to surface, which hopefully will now see the light of day with the Covid-19 pandemic starting to subside, the spirit of Twin Town continues to live on and find a new generation of fans every few years.

The roy orbison story 2023 at the torch theatre

Century show with critically acclaimed symphonic versions of Heartbreak Radio, Blue Bayou, It’s Over and of course, Running Scared.

H a T’S on

Barry Steele and a fabulous cast of musicians and singers will take you on a musical journey from ‘The Black and White Night’ right through to The Traveling Wilburys in The Roy Orbison Story 2023. This August, they promise they’ll have you dancing in the aisles, with two fantastic shows in one great evening at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven.

In 1988 Roy Orbison performed alongside Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello and KD Lang at The Cocoanut Grove, Los Angeles in what was to become known as ‘The Black and White Night TV Special.’ In Barry Steele and Friends, the evening

opens with style as they pay tribute to this award-winning show with their version of this TV Classic.

As a great friend of Roy Orbison, Chris Isaak has collected many awards on behalf of The Orbison Family – known as the Orbison of the 90s, he also recorded many of Roy Orbison’s hits – in Barry Steele and Friends the compliment is returned as Barry Steele presents stunning versions of global smash hits ‘Blue Hotel and Wicked Game.

In 2017 Roy Orbison’s classic hits were remastered by The Philharmonic orchestra. In Barry Steele and Friends we bring Roy Orbison’s legacy into the 21st

In 1988 Roy Orbison joined a group of iconic artists known collectively as ‘The Traveling Wilburys.’ Their musical legacy remains as vital and as popular today as it was back in the day. In Barry Steele and Friends, the whole cast comes together to celebrate those 35 years and truly defines the spirit of this original supergroup with their versions of those masterpieces. From Handle with Care to The End of The Line, the second show of the evening is jam-packed full of ‘Wilbury Magic.’

Book now to experience an evening rammed to the rafters with solid gold ‘Rock n Roll’ hits and contemporary musical genius on Friday 11 August at 7.30pm.

With big-screen projection and the incredible voice of Barry Steele, this top-class production has something for everyone!

The Roy Orbison Story 2023 will visit the Torch Theatre on Friday 11 August at 7.30pm. Tickets: £26. Tickets can be purchased from the Box Office at the Torch Theatre on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre. co.uk.

Eastenders’ Big Mo to star in The Big Pembrokeshire Pantomime

THE excitement has been building for weeksbut now the cat - or rather the rat - is out of the bag and the Big Pembrokeshire Pantomime has announced that its headliner is none other than Laila Morse - aka Big Mo from BBC1’s Eastenders.

Laila Morse made her small screen debut in The Bill - but has been a fixture in Soapland’s Albert Square for years… but now she’s swapping her cockney matriarch with a heart of gold - and the voice that could stop traffic - role to play the badass Queen Rat in Dick Whittington at Boulevard Theatre in Milford Haven.

w“I can’t wait to meet everyone and play a baddie,” said Laila, who isn’t the only performer in her family. She’s the sister of Oscarwinner Gary Oldman. Hers is a serious theatrical pedigree - her stage name was coined by Isobella Rossellini - daughter of Hollywood icon Ingrid Bergmen,.

“I’m swapping the East

End for the West of Wales, and I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.

Laila Morse has also done her stint in the jungle, taking part in I’m a Celebrity in 2013 - the year that Kian Egan from Westlife won. She also threw a few shapes on the rink when she took part in Dancing on Ice, the year before.

Dick Whittington will feature a fully professional cast, alongside Laila Morseand also a junior ensemble, made up of Pembrokeshire children.

The show runs from December 12-31 at Boulevard Theatre, Milford Haven, and tickets are on sale now from www. bigpembspanto.com

Lyric theatre celebrates its history in style this summer

CARMARTHEN’S Lyric Theatre will host special film screenings this summer to mark 30 years since its unconventional premiere of Jurassic Park took the town by storm.

The Lyric’s art deco auditorium will host a screening of Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park on Sunday 16th July and Save The Cinema will be screened from 17th – 19th July, with a captioned screening on 17th July at 7pm and a matinee at 2:30pm on Tuesday 18th July.

Save The Cinema tells the story of how, in 1993, Carmarthen’s town council proposed that The Lyric Theatre would be demolished so that a shopping centre could be built in its place.

Carmarthen Youth Opera’s Liz Evans, along with Carmarthen’s mayor at the time, Richard Goodridge, led a campaign that convinced Steven Spielberg to stage a premiere of his blockbuster, Jurassic Park

at The Lyric, as part of their fight to save the historic theatre. The story has been immortalised in the hit film, starring Samantha Morton, Tom Felton, and Jonathan Pryce, which was released and screened at The Lyric in January 2022.

2023 marks 30 years since Liz Evans’ campaign brought Hollywood to Carmarthen for the Jurassic Park premiere. Theatrau Sir Gâr are celebrating this special milestone by screening Save The Cinema and Jurassic Park in The Lyric’s beautiful art deco auditorium this July.

On the day of The Lyric’s Jurassic Park screening, there will also be a visit from some ‘roar-some’ reptiles from Dinomania, as seen on Britain’s Got Talent.

Local businesses in and around King Street are also celebrating the anniversary in conjunction with Theatrau Sir Gâr. There will be a chance to win four tickets to the Jurassic Park screening and a Sloppy Joe’s Streetfood voucher, plus a meet and greet with a baby dinosaur from Dinomania. There’ll also be a dinosaur trail hosted by the shops and businesses in King Street, with prizes for young dinosaur-hunters who complete the trail.

Jurassic Park (PG) will be screened at The Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen on Sunday 16th July at 2:00pm - the 30th anniversary of its release date.

Save The Cinema (12) will be shown on 17th July at 7pm (captioned), 18th July at 2:30pm and 7pm, and 19th of July at 7:00pm.

Tickets for Jurassic Park are priced at £5 and tickets for Save The Cinema are priced at £5.50. Bookings can be made with the box office on 0345 2263510 and online at www. theatrausirgar.co.uk

gaMing

Pikmin 4 launching 21st July 2023

Oi, listen up, mates!

The long-awaited Pikmin game is finally here, and it’s gonna be a bloody charming hit on the Nintendo Switch in 2023, innit? I’ve had a go at the opening area of Pikmin 4, and let me tell ya, this could be the moment when Pikmin breaks into the big leagues. Not that the earlier games were rubbish or anythin’, but they never quite made it to the mainstream, ya know what I mean? But with the Switch hostin’ stellar games like Luigi’s Mansion, The Legend of Zelda, and Super Mario, it could very well be Pikmin’s time to shine.

I’ve spent a good couple of hours with the game, and I gotta say, the subtle changes in Pikmin 4 make a massive difference. Time management ain’t as stressful this time around, ‘cause now you can explore and do stuff during the night. No more strict 30-day time limit like in the original game, mate. Now you can take your sweet time and enjoy the ride.

In Pikmin 4, you ain’t playin’ as Olimar anymore, mate. Instead, you create your own character on a mission to rescue the missing explorers, including Olimar himself. It’s your job to manage and command a bunch of different Pikmin, old and new. I’ve been havin’ a jolly ol’ time

explorin’ the Sun-Speckled Terrace, just doin’ my thing, gatherin’ resources, findin’ treasure, and rescuin’ lost explorers.

And let me tell ya, it’s even better with Oatchi, your trusty dog-like companion. This fella is a legend, I tell ya. He can dig, forage, and when he grows big enough, you can even ride on him. Makes traversin’ rivers and jumpin’ over ledges a piece of cake. And get this, you can even send Oatchi to sniff out specific resources for ya. Makes explorin’ those complex areas a lot less intimidatin’.

Oatchi ain’t just a fancy taxi, though. This pup has a whole skill tree goin’ on. You can beef up his strength or combat abilities, like in a proper RPG. He’s gonna become a powerhouse, mark my words.

Pikmin 4 also introduces Raw Materials, a new currency system. You can use ‘em to expand areas or buy upgrades back at your base. Adds a bit of spice to the gameplay, ya know?

Of course, the classic

Pikmin colors are still kickin’, like Yellow for zappin’ electric stuff and jumpin’ high, and Red for their fiery immunity and strength. But there are also two new types: Ice and Glow. I ain’t met the Glow Pikmin yet, but they sound pretty useful, especially in them dark underground caves. Now, the Ice Pikmin, I’ve gotta give ‘em props. These little fellas can freeze big enemies and break ‘em to pieces. Handy, innit? They also come in handy for clearin’ obstacles and freezin’ water so you can cross. All these changes come together to make Pikmin 4 the smoothest experience yet, mates. When you think of an RTS game, it might sound a bit intimidatin’, but Pikmin keeps things playful and fun, just like always. I can’t wait to dive deeper into the game and see how the glow Pikmin and Oatchi’s upgrades shake things up. But for now, mark my words, Pikmin 4 is gonna be a massive hit on the Nintendo Switch in 2023. Cheers!

The ‘Healthier Wales’ partnership launched

HYBU CIG CYMRU –Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) - and Welsh Athletics have joined forces to highlight the importance of a healthy lifestyle to children across Wales.

HCC and Welsh Athletics will visit schools across Wales and teach pupils about the importance of a healthy and balanced diet, physical activity, and exercise.

The team will visit schools in Anglesey, Neath Port Talbot and Rhondda Cynon Taf during the summer term. Commonwealth Games athletes Hannah Brier, Aled Davies and Osian Jones will be hosting a Q&A session with children from each school whilst also joining in the fun in cooking demonstrations and physical activity sessions, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

According to the Healthy Weight: Healthy Wales report, around 25% of children in Wales start school obese. 1 in 5 children leave

primary school obese, and nutritional status in adolescents is poor. In addition, the School Sports Survey 2022 revealed 36% of pupils reported ‘no frequent participation’ in organised sport outside of the curriculum – an 8%

increase since 2018.

CEO of Welsh Athletics, James Williams, said: “Recent surveys in Wales have highlighted the demand for physical activity and the need to reduce obesity levels in young people across

Wales. In partnership with HCC, we hope to educate more children on the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and our school road trip is a positive step on this journey. “

HCC’s Consumer Executive Elwen Roberts

explained: ‘We are delighted to be working with Welsh Athletics on this important initiative. Ensuring that children understand food and nutrition is vital to helping them lead healthy lives.

Welsh Lamb and Welsh

Beef are nutritionally dense and can play a really important role in a healthy diet and lifestyle. “

The initiative launched at the Cardiff International Stadium on Saturday, July 1, during the Welsh Schools National Track & Field Championships. The partnership will also be highlighted during the Royal Welsh Show. Commonwealth Games and Winter Olympic athlete Adele Nicoll will join the launch at both national events.

Adele Nicoll reacted:

“I am delighted to support this fantastic initiative and help promote the importance of a healthy lifestyle from a young age.

“Nutrition and exercise have played a vital part in my life. They have allowed me to enter a world of professional sport which has, in turn, helped to establish my identity. Being educated on nutrition and exercise has provided me with the tools to unlock another level to life and have helped me massively manage my struggles.’

Vets vital in ensuring high animal health and welfare standards in Wales

RURAL AFFAIRS

Minister Lesley Griffiths has said she wants Wales to be viewed as the best place to practice veterinary medicine.

Speaking at the British Veterinary Association (BVA) dinner in Cardiff, the Minister thanked vets across Wales for their hard work in ensuring high standards of animal health and welfare.

This was also the first BVA dinner Dr Richard Irvine attended as Wales’ Chief Veterinary Officer.

In her speech, the Minister highlighted the importance of the vetanimal-owner relationship in delivering good animal health and welfare.

The Welsh Government’s Animal Health and Welfare Framework has a key principle of “prevention is better than cure”, with the One Health approach at its core.

The Framework goal of animals in Wales having a good quality of life is

detailed in the Animal Welfare Plan for Wales, which sets the priorities for ensuring high animal welfare standards.

The Minister spoke

about the threat of Antimicrobial Resistance and the excellent work being done by farm vets in Wales to control it. She also discussed concerns about

dog attacks on people and livestock with responsible ownership being key in addressing the matter.

The Minister thanked vets for their efforts to

eradicate bovine TB and avian influenza from Wales.

Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths said: “Wales may be a small country, but we have high and far-

reaching expectations, and the passion and drive to deliver.

Vets across Wales do a brilliant job in ensuring animal health and welfare is of a high standard.

“Looking to the future, I want Wales to be viewed as the best place to practice veterinary medicine. It is an amazing place to live and work.

“We are ambitious in in our goals for animal health and welfare standards in Wales, for their benefit and for wider society. To do this, we need vets to continue to develop their skills, knowledge and expertise, and to carry on working closely with us.

“I would like to thank the veterinary profession in Wales and the BVA for all they do on behalf of animals and their keepers.

“Good animal health and welfare is a common goal we all share. There is great collaborative work taking place in Wales and when we work together, we are stronger.”

No rest for animal bedding firm Platts

AN ANIMAL bedding company has unveiled ambitious expansion plans after a multi-millionpound investment to buy a new eight-acre site.

Platts Agriculture, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, aims to more than double annual sales to £20 million as part of a new three-year growth strategy.

The news was revealed during a visit by Welsh Government Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths to their headquarters and manufacturing plant on Llay Industrial Estate.

According to managing director Caroline Platt, the Welsh Government has played a key role in the company’s growth in recent years.

The family firm was founded by Caroline’s parents, Robert and Christine Platt, in 1973, and her son, Chris Whittaker, is a third-generation director.

The company headquarters is called Parkleigh, after the nearby pig farm where it all started.

Since then, Platts, awarded a Royal Warrant in 2018, has grown into a market leader supplying customers across the UK and Ireland with animal bedding for cattle, horses, poultry and pets.

Last year the multi-

award-winning company was crowned the UK’s Family Firm of the Year by the Federation of Small Businesses.

Caroline Platt said: “We are very lucky to have had support from the Welsh Government over the years, especially with the European social funding through the Welsh Government that helped us acquire Parkleigh offices.

“They also helped with the initiative to set up the garage, which enabled us to create another business, Platts Commercial Services, to maintain vehicles, not to mention the funding we received towards our new weighbridge.

“The turning point for me in terms of support was the 20TWENTY business and leadership programme that I and a number of the senior

management team did.

“That’s been transformational for us as a company because it helped me create a three-year growth plan to go from a turnover of £4.4 million to £6 million - and we hit the target a year early.

“Using those same business models, we have now mapped out our growth strategy for the next three years.

“We’re currently turning over £8 million and hoping to achieve £20 million by the end of that period.

“To sustain our growth and support our storage and distribution, we have bought an eight-acre site on the industrial estate.

“It’s really exciting, and it’s all down to the people who work at Platts and their core values and behaviours. Their passion and loyalty are

invaluable.

“We’re a family firm in the true sense of the word because the whole workforce is like our extended family.”

The Minister was taken on a manufacturing facility tour where the company invested £1 million in two new baling lines. That’s led to a 30-tonne-a-year reduction in the use of polythene and more recycled material being used in packaging, along with an increase in the number of bales stacked on each pallet which means more can be delivered per lorry load.

Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said: “Platts is a really impressive business. From humble beginnings, they have achieved a lot, and it’s been really interesting hearing how the business has grown over 50 years and how they have kept up

with innovation to ensure the company is sustainable and employs over 60 people.

“They are market leaders, and it was good to hear Caroline paying tribute to their support from the Welsh Government, particularly the 20TWENTY programme.

“Her son, Chris, is now also part of the business and showing real entrepreneurship to drive the company forward and stay one step ahead.

“It’s great to hear about their sustainable methods, not just in their factory but also in other parts of the business.

“In the process, they are diverting thousands of tonnes from landfill - it’s so important to reuse what we can. It ticks so many boxes.

“Platts is a great example of an indigenous company going from strength to strength – reaching 50 years is a great achievement, and here’s to the next 50.”

During the visit, the Minister also met the longest-serving member of staff, Brian Evans, aged 74, a former driver who’s now a member of the maintenance team.

He said: “I love it here. There’s a really good crowd who work here and Caroline is a first class boss – just like her Dad before her. She’s a chip off the old block.”

Sheep sector’s path to net zero begins with innovation

THE NATIONAL SHEEP ASSOCIATION says it is excited to begin work alongside industry partners to help deliver a new project designed to breed low methane producing sheep, in turn helping sheep farmers make a positive contribution to UK agriculture’s journey towards net zero.

T he project launched on Monday (Jul 3) following an award of £2.9m from Defra’s farming Innovation Programme

Called ‘Breed for CH4nge - Breeding Low Methane Sheep’ and led by sheep genetics company Innovis, the three-year initiative will measure methane emissions from a total of 13,500 sheep in 45 flocks, collect the necessary data and build and develop the tools required to genetically reduce methane emissions and improve the efficiency of the national flock. The project will eventually demonstrate the impact of low-carbon sheep on whole farm carbon footprints. The project will bring together progressive

performance-recording sheep breeder groups including Sheep Improvement Group (SIG), breeding the Exlana, Performance Recorded Lleyn Breeders (PRLB) and the Centurion Group of Dorset Sheep Breeders as well as Innovis to deliver the research and host on farm events.

Scientific input, technology and additional genetics expertise will be provided by SRUC and Harper Adams University, while Signet Breeding Services, part of AHDB, will provide performance recording services. Industry and supply chain partners – Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock (CIEL), Pilgrims Pride and Waitrose, will help steer farm system modelling including the use of carbon calculators and will drive an integrated knowledge exchange (KE) programme. NSA will provide a direct and important link with the wider industry and a ‘guiding hand’ regarding policy issues.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: “NSA is

delighted to be a partner in Breed for CH4nge and I see this as a highly significant research and development project to move the UK’s sheep industry forward in terms of productivity gains, alongside reducing methane emissions and improving carbon footprints. These outcomes are directly aligned to overcome some of the challenges placed at the door of UK agriculture in this post CAP era. We have to move faster in terms of farming being a solution to climate change, and play our part in the UK’s

30% methane reduction by 2030 targets agreed during COP 26. Through this work the consortium will identify ways to reduce our emissions but also ensure we do this in a way that maintains the wide range of sustainability traits inherent in many of our flocks. Importantly the project is designed so that, in time, lessons will be able to be adopted by any breed and breeders and I see that as key to improving our genetics without diluting our genetic pool.” The project will initially

develop on-farm protocols and use new innovative tools and technologies including Portable Accumulation Chambers (PAC) to predict methane emissions from grazing sheep alongside measures of health, production and efficiency traits at the individual animal level.

Further measurements, including rumen size and microbiota, will improve understanding of the underlying biology and ensure that reductions in methane emissions positively contribute to sustainable genetic

improvement of ewe productivity on UK grass and forage.

This comprehensive set of information will enable understanding of the genetic control of these characteristics and DNA sampling will allow relationships with the underlying genome of the sheep to be investigated. This will result in tools to compare the breeding value of sheep in the flocks, idenitifying breeding stock that will contribute to improving farm carbon footprint.

To widen the Breed for CH4nge project’s impact beyond the 45 flocks involved, plans are to roll out a wide-reaching communication programme with other sheep breeders and farmers throughout England, in collaboration with supply chain partners and wider industry bodies, including NSA. The initiative will be designed to identify the most effective ways of communicating the project’s outputs and implications to other farmers and help support them to make genetic changes.

New presidential team to lead Farmers’ Union of Wales

We enter July with a new top team at the helm of the FUW. After 8 years of dedicated service Glyn Roberts has stepped down as the Farmers’ Union of Wales President. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Glyn for his dedication and unwavering commitment for farming, Wales, our rural economy and communities, as well as his dedication to the Welsh language and our way of life. His mission to see our rural communities and family farms thrive in a sustainable way will be a mantra we carry forward for generations to come and we owe him a debt of gratitude for what he has done for agriculture in Wales and beyond.

THE FARMERS’

UNION of Wales has a new presidential team at its helm to lead the organisation forward in its mission to ensure there are thriving, sustainable family farms in Wales.

Joining newly elected President Ian Rickman at the top are Pembrokeshire dairy farmer Dai Miles as deputy President; North Wales beef and sheep farmer Alun Owen as North Wales Vice President; Glamorgan beef and sheep farmer Brian Bowen as South Wales Vice President and Ceredigion sheep farmer Anwen Hughes as Mid Wales Vice President.

Speaking about the team, Ian Rickman said: “I’m grateful to be joined by Dai, Alun, Brian and Anwen. I feel that we have a strong presidential team that is going to work well across Wales representing the Union at key local and national events and help engage with our members and stakeholders.

“We face a myriad of challenges in the sector and the broad spectrum of knowledge and expertise that the team brings puts us in good stead of meeting those challenges head on.”

Dai Miles grew up in Felin Fach and attended Aberaeron Comprehensive school. Not from a farming family, Dai started his farming career by attending the Welsh Agricultural College

in Aberystwyth where he received a National Diploma in Agriculture and completed a sandwich year at Godor Nantgaredig.

After college he spent five years as a herdsman at Waun Fawr, Glynarthen, Llandysul and then a further five years at IGER Trawscoed working on the conventional herd and organic herd at Ty Gwyn before taking the brave step to take a tenancy in Pembrokeshire with his wife Sharron.

They currently farm approximately 70 acres owned land, 200 on FBT’s and 100 acres on short term lets which is all organic. They’re milking 120 cows on a grazed robotic milking system in addition to rearing all calves for either herd replacements or store beef cattle. One of their sons, Llyr, has recently joined the business.

Dai, who was the FUW’s Vice President for South Wales, is also a past Chairman of the FUW’s Milk and Dairy Produce Committee, a past County Chairman of the FUW in Pembrokeshire and Vice Chairman of the FUW’s Tenants Committee.

In addition, Dai has participated in Farming Connect’s Agri-Academy Rural Leadership Programme which has helped him to further develop his communication skills to enable him to undertake his

roles away from the farm more effectively.

As well as managing the family farm with Sharron and lately Llyr, in 2000 Dai and four other organic dairy farmers founded Calon Wen Organic Milk Co-operative. The co-operative, which is owned by 25 farming families, helps to secure a long-term market for organic milk from Wales by supporting organic processing needs in Wales.

In 2013 he became Managing Director of the enterprise. The company now supplies its own brand of milk, butter, and cheeses to major retailers in Wales and the UK, as well as a wide range of other retail outlets and also exports to Japan and the Middle East.

Central to Dai’s success is a passionate belief that a profitable agricultural industry is the key to maintaining the countryside and rural culture of Wales for future generations.

Alun Owen farms at Gallt-y-Celyn, Pentrefoelas with his wife Marian and son Siôn. Gallt-Y-Celyn is an upland farm producing store cattle and fat lambs on the Foelas estate in the Uwchaled area, and lies between 600 and 800 feet above the sea. In addition, another holding is part of a business located in Pen Llŷn. Alun and his wife Marian took over the business from his parents some time ago and have been members with FUW for many years.

Alun believes that it is important that Wales has a strong voice within the agricultural industry and has been the FUW county chairman for Denbighshire. He believes that it is important and his duty to try and meet with everyone from outside the industry in order to facilitate their understanding of the agriculture sector.

Brian Bowen farms a mixed suckler cow and hill sheep unit near Tredegar. The farm consists of 150 acres of owned land with a further 1000 rented acres and 1200 acres of common rights on three separate commons. He runs the farm, along with his father, mother and son.

He served as FUW Brecon and Radnor Vice Chairman from 2008 and was elected as its County Chairman in 2010. He has been the Brecon and Radnor delegate on the FUW livestock, wool and marts committee since 2009.

Anwen Hughes farms 80 acres at Bryngido farm, just outside of Aberaeron in Ceredigion, in partnership with her husband Rhodri. The family keeps around 200 Lleyn and Lleyn cross ewes on a low input- high output, grass based system. Anwen has been farming since 1995 and in addition also owns in partnership with her mother Betty Davies a further 48 acres which is rented to her oldest son Glyn.

to play too, as in order to achieve the aims of the Scheme, and indeed the Agriculture (Wales)Bill, it is imperative the Treasury at least maintain the agriculture budget for Wales. It is not news to our farmers that the UK Government disingenuously included unspent funding in calculating post 2019 allocations of Wales’ CAP replacement funding, resulting in a far lower allocation than would have been the case had the UK remained in the EU - so there is plenty of work that needs to be done in that respect.

The new Presidential team, led by Carmarthenshire beef and sheep farmer Ian Rickman, will be facing substantial challenges as agriculture moves forward with new policies and regulations that have the potential to either make or break our farming systems.

Looking to Cardiff, issues such as the Sustainable Farming Scheme, Water Resources Regulations, Bovine TB, Afforestation and Carbon Trading as well as renewable energy are areas that our teams will be addressing over the coming months. Issues for Westminster will include food security, prices and supply chains, trade deals and border controls, the UK kept animals Bill and Post EU CAP and Regional Development Funding.

As attention will now inevitably turn to the Sustainable Farming Scheme we will have our work cut out to ensure it is fit for purpose, accessible for every farm and delivers truly sustainable agriculture; environmentally, socially, culturally and economically. However, the heat isn’t all on the Welsh Government. Despite agriculture being a devolved matter, the UK Government has a part

The move away from the EU’s multiannual (seven year) financial framework also represents a major obstacle under the post-EU arrangements, as does the significantly reduced timescales inherent to the loss of such a multi-annual framework. Again, our lobbying work on this will not slow down in the coming months.

When looking ahead to the Sustainable Farming scheme, many farmers will be hoping for some clarity around the future of Glastir. This is a matter the FUW has raised on multiple occasions, and has also been raised in the Senedd. Most recently, the Minister was asked whether Glastir would be extended to 2024 during a meeting of the Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee.

The Minister explained a decision was yet to be made, but farmers would have an answer before the Royal Welsh Show. For many of you the uncertainty over these payments is unnerving, worrying and frankly not satisfactory given we are now halfway through the year.

As a Union, we can only commit to continuing to raise the matter with Members of the Senedd, the Minister and officials, and to keep you informed of any decisions made. Our new Presidential Team has got their work cut out for them but I’m confident that we have the right team in place to support their efforts.

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RSPCA Cymru reveals intentional harm increase in Wales

HEARTBREAKING figures released by RSPCA Cymru have shown reports of intentional harm have risen by 9% - with incidents peaking during the summer months.

As a result, the animal charity is bracing for one of its busiest summers this year as it expects another summer of suffering, with more people reporting cruelty to animals from July to September.

The charity has launched its Cancel Out Cruelty campaign, to raise funds to help its frontline rescue teams continue to save animals from cruelty and abuse and to raise awareness about how to stop cruelty to animals for good.

The figures, exclusively released today by the RSPCA, show: Calls relating to intentional harm in Wales over the past three years

have increased from 691 (2021) to 753 last year (2022) - a 9% increase.

The total number of complaints of alleged cruelty (all animals) in 2022 across

Wales was 5,632.

In July, August, and September calls about intentional harm were at their highest with 73 in July, 83 in August, and 82 in September.

The three highest counties for intentional harm calls were Swansea (62), Cardiff (61), and Rhondda Cynon Taf (59). The most calls in a North Wales county was Flintshire with 54.

‘Heartbreaking that animal cruelty is on the rise’ Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said: “Right now, animal cruelty is happening in England and Wales on a massive scale and rising.

It is heartbreaking that we are seeing such sad figures which show animal cruelty is, very sadly, on the rise.

“While we don’t know for certain why there has been an increase in reports of cruelty, the cost of living crisis and the post-pandemic world we live in have created an animal welfare crisis with more people getting pets with potentially less time and money to care for them.

“Each year, these reports of cruelty reach their terrible annual peak in the summer months – when we receive a report of an animal being beaten on average every hour of every day.

“The cost-of-living crisis also means the cost of rescuing animals is at an all-time high and our vital services are stretched to the limit.”

It is not known why reports of animal cruelty peak in the summer months although factors like animal abuse being more visible as people are outdoors more could be one factor.

The RSPCA is the only charity rescuing animals and investigating cruelty in England and Wales with a team of frontline rescue officers, specialist vet teams, and a network of animal care centers and 140 branches providing rehabilitation to animal victims.

Dermot added:

“Together, we believe we can and will cancel out cruelty to animals by replacing violence with kindness. We are urging people to donate to our Cancel Out Cruelty campaign, every donation will help animals.”

Incidents of cruelty in Wales include a South Wales man was caught on CCTV abusing his German Shepherd last summer after footage showed him kicking the dog and hanging him from a fence with his lead.

Last month, the RSPCA revealed a hedgehog was found alive but covered in blood with its intestines trailing out, in a bedroom drawer. Despite being rushed to a vet immediately, the hedgehog was sadly put to sleep to prevent further suffering.

As the only charity in England and Wales investigating cruelty and rescuing animals, the RSPCA needs support to stay out on the frontline:

• £2 could help to provide a meal for a cat or dog in our care

• £6 could help pay to feed a dog for a day in our care

• £10 could help pay towards bandages for a cat or dog

• £15 could help pay for a cat or dog’s clinical exam

• £20 could help pay towards a bird catching kit

• £30 could help pay for a life jacket for an inspector

• £100 could help pay towards water rescue equipment

• £500 could kit out a 4x4 inspector van

The RSPCA’s frontline teams are working hard to rescue animals in need this summer but we can’t do it alone - we need your help to Cancel Out Cruelty. To help support the RSPCA, visit: www.rspca.org.uk/ stopcruelty

Businesses and schools working together to create employment

NEW research looking at how businesses can work with schools and colleges to benefit the future prospects of young people, has been welcomed by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles.

The ‘Transitions to Employment’ report, carried out by Hefin David, MS, has been commissioned by the Welsh Government.

Welcoming the report, Jeremy Miles said: “This report clearly highlights the many benefits to businesses in building strong partnerships with schools and colleges.

“As well as being extremely rewarding, it can also be an opportunity to nurture young talent and develop the skills that local employers need, creating a bigger pool of talent and futureproof skills needed.”

Primary school pupils in Pembrokeshire are already benefiting from a scheme being run by Pembroke Dock-based offshore wind development company Floventis Energy, who along with the Darwin Centre, are running workshops with pupils aged 7-11.

After a series of workshops on floating offshore wind, climate change, fossil fuels and the benefits of renewable energy with a focus on future job opportunities, the children’s work was displayed at the Senedd, where the Minister for

Education and Welsh Language was able to see just how inspiring it is for young people to have hands on experiences of science and nature.

The exhibition included work from Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, Saundersfoot Primary School, Portfield School, Cleddau Reach VC Primary School, Narberth Primary and St Francis Primary School, Milford Haven.

The Darwin Centre is a charity based in

Pembrokeshire which enthuses young people and communities in STEM subjects through hands-on field trips and workshops, from rock pooling to theoretical nuclear physics. It provides access to experts within the STEM industry and highlights potential careers available to the young people of Pembrokeshire.

Tess Blazey, Director of Policy and External Affairs at Floventis said: “As we continue to roll-

out our education and outreach programme, it is great to see how engaged local children are with their local environment and the opportunities that offshore wind will bring to Wales. We really hope that the work that we are doing will inspire young people to develop their STEM skills and consider future careers in renewable energy.”

Some recommendations in the ‘Transitions to Employment’ report are already underway with

£500,000 announced last month by the Minister for Education and the Welsh Language for a tailored work experience scheme targeted at young learners who are disengaging with education and are at risk of becoming NEET.

Careers and WorkRelated Experiences are now a mandatory part of the Curriculum for Wales, including ages 3-16, bringing the emphasis into primary schools as well as secondary schools.

School Essentials Grant opens to support families for next school year

THE SCHOOL

Essentials Grant for the next school year is now open, the Minister for Education and Welsh Language Jeremy Miles has announced.

Children whose families are on lower incomes and qualify for certain benefits can apply for a grant of £125 per learner and £200 for learners entering year 7 (to help with increased costs associated with starting secondary school)

Families with children in reception to year 11 are eligible to apply.

Previously known as the PDG Access Grant, it provides funding for costs associated with going to school, such as buying uniform, sports kit and equipment.

Minister for Education and Welsh Language

Jeremy Miles said: “The School Essentials Grant, helps to reduce the financial burden placed on families when buying school uniform

and equipment, enabling children to attend school and take part in activities at the same level as their peers”

“Families are facing increased pressure from the cost of living, which is why

we have also introduced new guidance to help schools keep uniform costs down. I have asked schools to review their school uniform policies as a priority.

“The Schools Essentials

Grant is the highest level of financial support available in the UK. Around 98,000 children and young people are eligible for the School Essentials Grant and I want to encourage people to find

out if they are eligible for this support to help them buy essential school items for their child.”

To find out more visit School Essentials Grant | GOV.WALES

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Enhanced offers make the Mazda MX-30 better value than ever

THE UNIQUE MAzDA MX-30 battery electric compact SUV is a stylish, versatile and driverfocused EV that features an AC synchronous electric motor and a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery that delivers a range of 124 miles+ and comes with AC charging up to 6.6kW and DC rapid charging designed to meet 125A Combo Charging standard.

Since its launch in 2021, production constraints have limited the number of MX-30s available in the UK marketplace, but with an anticipated increase in production, Mazda UK has introduced a range of consumer offers that make the MX-30 better value in the retail sector. For cars ordered by end of September the Mazda MX-30 BEV is available with up to 4 years 0% APR on Mazda Personal Contract Purchase (PCP), with no minimum deposit and registration by 31st March 2024. Customers also benefit from 3 years free servicing. As before, all retail customers ordering an MX-30 can benefit from a half-price PodPoint home charger, meaning that the flexibility of home charging comes for just £499~.

Commenting on the enhanced consumer offers on the Mazda MX-30 BEV, Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director Mazda Motors UK, said: “thanks to its compact battery, the Mazda MX-

30 offers a tempting blend of an affordable price tag and engaging handling, which combined with its distinctive styling, innovative technology and classleading interior quality, has meant very strong demand for Mazda’s first BEV. And now with our production constraints easing through the remainder of this year, we’re able to offer a fantastic consumer offer to retail customers as we ramp up MX-30 sales in the UK”.

Adding, “the combination of zero per cent finance

and free servicing means customers can benefit from a low monthly price and completely affordable running costs while owning an EV that has been developed with Mazda’s unique focus on driver engagement and stand-out design.”

Featuring three generously equipped model grades – Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Makoto, standard equipment on all UK MX-30s includes LED headlights with daytime running lights,

reversing camera, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Intelligent Speed Assist, navigation and head-up display. Each MX-30 comes as standard with a Type 2 AC charging cable and a socket for DC rapid charging, which allows for charging from 20 to 80 per cent battery in just 36 minutes ++.

The Mazda MX-30 range starts with the Mazda MX-30 Prime-Line, which is marked out by 18-inch Silver alloy wheels, black door mirrors and a black grille, it’s exclusively offered

in a single tone paint design with a choice of five colours: standard Arctic White, or Polymetal Grey, Ceramic White and Jet Black, plus Machine Grey.

The MX-30 ExclusiveLine promises to be a popular model in the range, it features 18-inch Bright alloy wheels and sees an increase in standard equipment with the addition of power seats, lumber support adjustment and smart keyless entry. There’s the option to choose a threetone design – Mazda’s latest exterior colour, Zircon Sand or Soul Red Crystal can be matched to a Brilliant Black roof and Black side panels, while customer’s opting for Jet Black can expect a Brilliant Black roof with Silver side panels. In addition, Ceramic White can be matched to a Brilliant Black roof with Dark Grey side panels.

The range-topping Makoto features three interior trim options – a light grey cloth interior trim with Stone artificial leather, or an optional dark grey interior and brown artificial leather or a new dark grey interior with black artificial leather. The range topping Makoto MX-30’s equipment tally includes a front wiper de-icer and a power and tilt sunroof, while inside a heated steering wheel and 12-speaker Bose surround sound complement the generous standard specification.

Volkswagen adds four new models to its Tiguan Black Edition line-up

FOUR STYLISH new Volkswagen Tiguan Black Edition models –including one plug-in eHybrid – go on sale in the UK this July.

The Tiguan is already Volkswagen’s bestselling model worldwide and widely regarded as a highly capable family SUV, and these eyecatching Black Edition trims are set to add to the model’s popularity.

Sitting between the R-Line Edition and R trims, each Tiguan Black Edition comes with a sporty styling pack that comprises R-Line bodycoloured bumpers, rear privacy glass, black decorative trims and exterior mirror housings. Also included are striking 20-inch Suzuka Black alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and metallic paint in three colours – Deep Black Pearl, Dolphin Grey and Reflex Silver – as well as the premium colour Oryx White Mother-ofPearl for an additional £475.

Other features that

come as standard include a seven-speed directshift gearbox (DSG), a Discover Media navigation system with streaming and internet, and a leatherwrapped, heated, multifunction sports steering wheel with touch control and shift paddles.

Three 4MOTION allwheel-drive models are available from Tuesday 4 July, priced from £42,340 RRP on-the-road including VAT:

These models are in addition to the two Tiguan Black Editions launched earlier this year to coincide with Volkswagen’s money-saving March SUV event: a 1.5 TSI 150 PS and 2.0 TDI 150 PS, both with a seven-speed DSG and priced £38,755 and £40,945 (RRP, OTR) respectively.

All Tiguan Black Editions are available until the end of September on a 7.9-per-cent personal contract plan (PCP) from Volkswagen Financial Services and with a £1,500 deposit contribution.

COMMERCIALS

Slow rollout for digital healthcare

PATIENTS and frontline staff are not benefitting from the latest advances in healthcare data and digital technology because of a lack of clear planning and strategy by the body responsible for developing these toolsDigital Health and Care Wales (DHCW). DHCW holds Special Health Authority status granted by the Welsh Government. It is supposed to take the lead on large-scale developments in digital healthcare to make a major difference to the people of Wales.

It is wholly unaccountable to the public and another body for which no path of ministerial responsibility exists.

Senedd Committees discovered evidence of trepidation among health boards and local authorities about the take up of new services developed by DHCW. They are also concerned about expenditure on projects to date.

During their joint scrutiny of DHCW, the Senedd’s Health and Social Care Committee and Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee received little assurance about delivery expectations for some of DHCW’s major projects, including the Welsh Community Care Information System

(WCCIS), the patientfacing NHS Wales App and integration of services with social care.

DISCONNECTION AND CONFUSION

WCCIS has been developed as a single system and a shared electronic record for use across various adult and children’s services. The intention was that all 22 local authorities and seven health boards in Wales would implement it.

DHCW claims the system is “live in 19 out of 29 organisations”. But, during the Committee’s scrutiny, it became apparent that there are different degrees of rollout and progress among the organisations that have decided to use WCCIS.

Due to connectivity or integration issues, some health boards have no intention of using it, whilst in Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB, for example, it is only expected to be initially rolled out only in mental health services.

The Committees are also concerned about where responsibility lies for leading this flagship system, noting that the Chief Executive of Powys Teaching Health Board was one of two Senior Responsible Officers for the programme, and they have recently taken on the role of interim Chief Executive of Betsi Cadwaladr UHB.

It is unclear what WCCIS will deliver with the planned £12m additional spend in the next three years and whether the work completed so far represents value for money.

Lack of cooperation with health boards and local authorities could jeopardise the programme, warns Russell George MS, Chair of the Health and Social Care Committee.

He says: “We understand the complexity and scale of the programme, but during our scrutiny of DHCW, we were not assured about several issues central to the rollout of WCCIS. These include the lack of a concise but detailed project plan and the lack of clarity about who

is responsible for the takeup of the system.

“It’s also clear that there is a reluctance among health board and local authorities to commit fully to the take up of the WCCIS. This could jeopardise the whole project’s success with consequences for services, clinicians and patients.

“As part of continuous scrutiny, we are asking Welsh Government and DHCW for six monthly updates on these issues, not least clarity around their intentions for the £12m assigned to the WCCIS project over the coming years.”

ASSESSMENTS MUST BE REALISTIC

The Committees were pleased to receive evidence about DHCW’s successes–including the continued rollout of the Welsh Nursing Care Record, services to support the response to the COVID-19 outbreak and enhancements to the Welsh Clinical Portal.

However, in their short

report, the Committees warn against over-optimism and urge a greater focus on more realistic expectations and evaluation of overall progress.

Mark Isherwood MS, Chair of the Senedd’s Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee, says: “DHCW is still a new organisation. Considerable work has been done to put in place new structures, and we commend the progress that has been made so far.

“However, we want to see DHCW be transparent about the challenges and the risks involved in delivering its remit. We applaud ambition and positivity but caution against over-optimism and a focus on celebrating successes at the expense of realistically assessing what needs to be achieved and how the work agenda needs to be prioritised.”

A short report, published jointly by the Senedd Health and Social Care Committee and Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee, contains 16 recommendations for Welsh Government and DHCW. It includes the Committee’s evaluations of DHCW transition from NWIS, progress and challenges to date, concerns about WCCIS, the NHS Wales App, integration with social care services, cybersecurity, and workforce challenges.

Minister thanks NHS staff ahead of NHS 75 celebrations

THE MINISTER for Health and Social Services, Eluned Morgan, has praised the work and dedication of NHS Wales staff as they prepare to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the NHS.

The Minister will be taking part in a range of events this week to mark the milestone by showcasing the best of the NHS in Wales, and reflecting on all that it has achieved since being set up by Welsh MP Aneurin Bevan in 1948.

HAmong the events being held is a multi-faith Thanksgiving Service at The Church of the Resurrection in Ely, Cardiff, tomorrow, in recognition of the wealth of talent and diversity which makes up the Welsh NHS workforce. The George Cross medal, which was presented to the NHS in Wales by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth last year, will be on display at the service.

The Minister for Health

and Social Services, Eluned Morgan, said:

“The fact that we are now living longer is a true testament to the achievements of the National Health Service.

“I’m certain that if Aneurin Bevan was here today he would be proud of the service he founded here in Wales and how it has developed over the last 75 years.

“Our health needs, medicines, treatments and technologies now are very different from those of 1948, but one thing has not changed – the dedication of the staff who are the bedrock on which the NHS was founded.

“These people are the beating heart of this cherished institution. The Covid 19 pandemic highlighted just how extraordinary they really are.

“So on this special occasion I would like to personally thank them for their skill, dedication,

courage and compassion –not just during the pandemic, but day in and day out.

“Today the NHS faces unprecedented demand for its services. We cannot afford to continue as we are.

“I firmly believe that we are all willing to fight to transform our health and care services into the sustainable system we need and want for the future, focused on early intervention and prevention.

“Everyone will need to play their part in order to help us deliver on this vision so that those who most need our services can access what they need, close to their homes, when they need it.”

Ahead of the church service in Ely the Health Minister will attend the official naming of a GWR train as “Aneurin Bevan” at Newport Station, and after the service she will deliver a statement marking the occasion in the Senedd.

On Wednesday the

Minister will attend a NHS 75 Service in Westminster, and on Thursday she will address the Bevan Commission Conference, at the Celtic Manor, in Newport reflecting on what the NHS has achieved and how it will look in the future.

On Saturday all the Park Runs being held in Wales

will be run in celebration of NHS 75.

Health Boards will also be holding events throughout the week to celebrate NHS 75 and people can find out what’s happening locally by checking their health board’s website and social media.

St John Ambulance Cymru leads the way in a ground-breaking healthcare initiative.

ST JOHN Ambulance Cymru have been commissioned to support the Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust in a ‘Virtual Ward’ project with Community Welfare Responders. The scheme will see qualified volunteers acting as first responders to 999 calls, to help ease pressure on the NHS.

The scheme is focussed on helping to provide more information to clinicians for people who have dialled 999 and are waiting for a response. The pilot scheme will initially be rolled out in four health boards - Betsi Cadwaladr, Aneurin Bevan, Hywel Dda and Swansea Bay. St John Ambulance Cymru volunteers will support Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust clinicians to enhance their remote clinical decision-making capabilities, providing them with the latest clinical information to support informed decision making and to provide patients in our communities with more appropriate access to care options.

The scheme will be coordinated by the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Clinical Contact Centre, who will assess calls and then alert

St John Ambulance Cymru’s Community Welfare Responders to incidents where there are opportunities to provide care closer to home, or improve patient experience. The Community Welfare Responders would then attend the scene and assess the patient, feeding back the information to clinicians in the Clinical Contact Centre who will determine the best course of action for the patient.

The aim of the scheme is to support the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust, and to reduce waiting times by responding to calls where an ambulance conveyance to an emergency department might not be required, and additional patient observations from the scene will enable remote clinicians to determine a more appropriate treatment plan. This enables patients to remain at home where appropriate and be assessed quicker thus reducing strain on Emergency Departments, where treatment in hospital is not required.

Benjamin Savage, Chief Operating Officer, at St John Ambulance Cymru said, “This is such an incredible project, and

we are so proud to be involved.

At a time of extreme pressure on our health care services, which is likely to increase into the winter months, it is more important than ever that, where possible, we keep people out of our hospitals in a safe and controlled manner, and allow our partners in the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust to respond to the people in most severe

need.

We are excited for the potential of this scheme to be rolled out across the whole of Wales which will allow us to live out our vision to be there for everyone, anytime, anywhere. We look forward to seeing how this pilot project develops and the positive impact it has on the people and communities we serve. It’s an honour to be part of something so innovative

and ground-breaking.”

Since launching the pilot scheme, early indicators are already demonstrating the positive impact Community Welfare Responders are having on reducing the need for an ambulance in less urgent cases. It is hoped that following continued evaluation, the scheme will be extended to support the increased pressures placed on both the Ambulance Service

and hospitals in Wales during the winter period and beyond.

We are always looking to recruit new volunteers to support our work across Wales. If you would like to volunteer for St John Ambulance Cymru register your interest at Register - St John Ambulance Cymru - Member Services (sjaw.org.uk) or email peopleservices@ sjacymru.org.uk .

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Employers urgd to address LGBTQ+ discrimination in Wales

Equality and inclusion are fundamental to our vision of a fairer economy, and I urge businesses in Wales to address the discrimination that far too many workers still face. Pioneering businesses like Bad Wolf demonstrate how prioritizing equality and inclusivity in workforce strategies can unlock the talent of all Welsh workers.”

“NO one should be held back at work for being themselves,” stated Economy Minister Vaughan Gething today during the culmination of Pride Month. Minister Gething outlined the actions being taken by the Welsh Government to promote inclusive workplaces and called on employers to listen and act against LGBTQ+ discrimination.

As part of an ambitious plan to make Wales the most LGBTQ+ friendly nation in Europe, the Welsh Government is collaborating with businesses across Wales to enhance workplace equality and inclusion.

Earlier this year, Deputy Minister for Social Partnership Hannah Blythyn published the Welsh Government’s LGBTQ+ Action Plan for Wales:

Together in Pride, as part of the Co-operation Agreement with Plaid Cymru. This plan commits all Ministers to work in social partnership with trade unions, employers, and other partners to combat discrimination, promote best practices, and improve information, advice, and guidance for LGBTQ+ workers.

Research conducted during the development of the Action Plan revealed that LGBTQ+ individuals are twice as likely to experience harassment or bullying compared to their heterosexual peers, with nearly a quarter having been outed in the workplace.

During a visit to Wolf Studios Wales in Cardiff Bay, where Bad Wolf Productions, known for their work on popular TV shows such as His Dark Materials, Industry, I Hate Suzie, A

Discovery of Witches, and Doctor Who, are based, Minister Gething met with staff and crew members, including LGBTQ+ community members and those responsible for the company’s Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion pledge. The discussion revolved around workplace policies and practices that foster an environment in which LGBTQ+ workers can thrive.

Minister Gething expressed his views on the matter, stating, “No one should be held back at work for being themselves, and it is unacceptable that LGBTQ+ people are twice as likely to face discrimination compared to their heterosexual peers. The Welsh Government is committed to making Wales the most LGBTQ+ friendly nation in Europe.

Minister Gething’s sentiments were echoed by Deputy Minister for Social Partnership Hannah Blythyn, who added, “Nobody should feel the need to hide who they truly are. Our aim is to create a Wales where everyone can live their lives authentically, free from fear and discrimination. Through our LGBTQ+ Action Plan, we are committed to bringing about meaningful change for LGBTQ+ communities, including eradicating discrimination so that workers feel safe, supported, and ultimately happy in their workplaces. This leads to improved health, better working relationships, and increased creativity and productivity.”

In addition to the LGBTQ+ Action Plan, the Minister for Economy and Deputy Minister for Social Partnership launched the Retail Action Plan in May 2023, which includes measures to promote Fair Work and workforce equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The Welsh Government supports the Wales TUC (Trades Union Congress) 10 steps towards LGBTQ+ inclusive workplaces action plan, published in May 2023.

Shavanah Taj, General Secretary of the Wales TUC, emphasized the importance of creating inclusive work environments, stating, “All

workers deserve to feel safe, respected, and valued at work. LGBTQ+ people are more likely to face hatred in the forms of transphobia, homophobia, biphobia, or other forms of discrimination, which can negatively impact their mental health, career progression, and job performance. The trade union movement in Wales is committed to fighting for the rights of all workers. We want all LGBTQ+ workers, including those with intersectional identities, to feel proud and safe at work. Everyone deserves to work in an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment. We welcome the Welsh Government’s LGBTQ+ action plan and have produced guidance to assist union representatives and employers in its implementation. We will continue working in social partnership to ensure that LGBTQ+ workers can proudly be themselves in the workplace.”

Jane Tranter, CEO of Bad Wolf, emphasized the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, stating, “Bad Wolf is built on the belief that diversity and inclusivity must be at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to have welcomed Minister Gething and shared our journey of building a company that upholds these values over the past eight years. Creativity and inclusivity should always go hand in hand, and Bad Wolf strives to be a place where both can thrive equally. We take immense pride in our work and the diverse teams who bring their best to the studio and our productions every day.”

Food and Drink Festivals and Events Fund announced

A £300,000 fund to provide support for food and drink festivals and events across Wales opens for applications today (Saturday, 1 July).

The small grant scheme, which will address the 10 key actions of the Welsh Government’s ‘Vision for the Food & Drink Industry’, will support festivals and events to add value to the industry in Wales and aims to improve visitor access to and awareness of Welsh food and drink. It also aims to encourage collaboration and co-operation between Welsh hospitality and food and drink businesses to source more local food and drink, and to increase the prevalence of Welsh food and drink on menus and retail offering.

The scheme is open to festivals and events taking place between the 1 July 2023 and 31 March 2024. It brings together the areas of agrifood, food processing, tourism destinations, the food service sector, food festivals and food retail outlets into one scheme.

Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales Lesley Griffiths said: “This small grant scheme will provide support for food festivals and events which have innovative ideas on the promotion of Welsh food and drink.

“Welsh food and drink is going from strength to strength, with a number of exciting and high-quality products available. I’m pleased to be able to announce this small grants scheme is now open, to

support festivals and events in spreading the word about the excellent quality of food and drink we have here in Wales.

“It will capitalise on the economic benefits of providing visitors with a unique, high quality and distinctive cultural experience, building networks and educating businesses.”

Full details about the scheme including eligibility and how to apply is available at: businesswales.gov.wales/ foodanddrink/growing-yourbusiness/food-tourism-andculture

The Welsh Government’s ‘Vision for the Welsh Food&Drink Industry is available at: businesswales. gov.wales/foodanddrink/ strategic-vision/vision-fooddrink-industry-2021

How to cope with rising mortgages

HOUSEHOLD budgets are being squeezed ever tighter due to the huge inflation in food and fuel prices, rising taxes and now a 13th consecutive interest rate hike.

Compared to just two years ago, mortgage interest will now cost nearly two and a half times as much.

It is little wonder then homeowners are seriously concerned, with many wondering how on earth they are going to make ends meet.

Commenting, property expert Jonathan Rolande, from the National Association of Property Buyers says: “Right now borrowers should hope for the best - but plan for the worst. Whilst many hope that this is a temporary situation and rates will soon begin to drop, borrowers should not rely on this happening. In the past, when inflation has been high, interest rates have remained higher for some time after the storm has passed. There are already £15bn of mortgage arrears in the UK, that’s just

under 1% of all mortgage balances. This is up by 12.5% over the year and will inevitably only get worse. These are very difficult times with potentially worse to come. The sooner inflation and interest rates begin to fall, the better.”

Here, Jonathan shares his advice on what you can do if your mortgage has increased or is set to go up: If the new amount is

affordable you have a choice to either pay the new amount or to try to get an alternative mortgage at a lower rate, or one that is fixed so that you have more certainty. Unfortunately, there are no ‘bargain’ rates at the moment with all products being much more expensive than we have got used to.

Whether rates will come down or not is a gamble

as the economic outlook is never certain and is currently harder to predict than ever. Most borrowers tend to make a decision to stick or twist based more on their own circumstances and risk aversion. If you are worried that payments are not affordable there are a number of things that can be done to avoid potentially affecting your credit rating or even losing

your home to repossession.

The most important thing is to acknowledge the difficulty and speak to the lender. There are new assurances that doing so will not affect your credit rating and banks have been instructed to be more sympathetic and helpful. Consider going on to an interest only product or extending the term, either can wipe about £200 a

month from an average mortgage (but will cost you more in interest in the long term).

Check for insurances that you may have taken out that cover things like illness or redundancy if these are causing difficulty.

Find out if you are on an SVR (a Standard Variable Rate) – these are often products with hefty interest.

Check for any state benefits you may be entitled to, Support for Mortgage Interest is a littleknown benefit that helps with mortgages for people receiving other benefits.

As a final resort, ask for a payment holiday – but this could affect your credit rating.

It is also important to minimise expenditure as much as possible and boost income where you can. Many are turning to renting rooms to lodgers or overseas students - £7500 a year is tax free this way. That’s over £600 a month and would cover the extra interest on an average loan.

ic

the Tories as the pressures pile on PM Rishi Sunak.

With the prospect of the imminent collapse of Thames Water and 24,000 school buildings beyond their estimated initial design life, the PM was accused in the brutal resignation letter of Government Minister Lord Zac Goldsmith of “apathy towards climate change ….... and simply uninterested in the environment.”

The Government tried to grab the headlines with their 15-year ‘NHS Long Term Workforce Plan’ for England that will get people from ‘classroom to clinic’ quicker and bring about ‘latest techniques and innovations’.

However, as it takes 3 years for a nurse to qualify and 7 years for a doctor, this is far too late to show results in time for the next General Election, due in the next 12 to 18 months at the latest.

Last week also saw the Rwanda asylum plan being ruled unlawful by the Court of Appeal. Liberal Democrat Home Affairs Spokesperson Alistair Carmichael MP said:

“Not only is the Conservatives’ Rwanda asylum plan immoral, ineffective and incredibly costly for taxpayers, but the Court of Appeal has also now said it is unlawful, too.

S“It will do nothing to stop dangerous Channel crossings - and it runs roughshod over the UK’s legal obligations, as the courts have confirmed.”

“The Home Secretary needs to finally accept reality. Instead of wasting even more taxpayer money by defending this plan in the courts, the Home Secretary should scrap her vanity project and focus on tackling the asylum backlog created by her own Government’s incompetence.”

poli

VELy iBERAL

W ITH ANDREW

named in the latest privileges committee report - and commit to revoking their honours if there was.

The Privileges Committee’s report into attempts to undermine Partygate described a “coordinated campaign” to undermine its inquiry into Boris Johnson.

Several of the Tory MPs named in the report received honours in Boris Johnson’s recent honours list, including Priti Patel, Jacob-Rees Mogg, Michael Fabricant and Andrea Jenkyns.

Daisy Cooper MP, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats, commented:

“Several of these MPs shamelessly attacked the Privileges Committee for investigating Boris Johnson’s Partygate lies and were then rewarded with gongs just weeks afterwards. This looks like a gongs for cronies scandal.”

Back again to health, the Liberal Democrats have warned of a “GP retirement time bomb,” after new research by the party reveals more than one in five family doctors are nearing retirement age in England. There is nothing to suggest the situation is any different, here in Wales.

The Liberal Democrats are calling for a legal right for patients to see a GP within a week, or within 24 hours if in urgent need.

WelsH GoverNmeNt failiNGs

TIn my eyes, the Government created the problem by not providing the resources to process the asylum claims. Had they done so, the problem would not have arisen and those not legally entitled to remain would be deported. It’s as if they allowed the problem to happen, for political expediency.

Elsewhere, The Liberal Democrats have called on Rishi Sunak to investigate whether any collusion took place between Boris Johnson and the MPs

With black clouds hanging over the Tories, there’s little surprise in the news that more of their MP’s will step down at the next election, than at any point since Labour’s 1997 landslide. 42 MP’s have already announced their departure. And locally, either Stephen Crabb or Simon Hart will presumably contest the new Mid & South Pembrokeshire seat, meaning the unsuccessful MP might also leave Parliament.

andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

THE WELSH Government failed to complete a risk assessment for national threats before the Covid pandemic. Two years after restrictions ended, it still hasn’t completed one.

Among several revelations made to the UK-wide Covid Inquiry, the Welsh Government’s lack of preparedness stands out.

WELSH GOVERNMENT KNEW PANDEMIC RISKS

The Welsh Government’s practice of avoiding responsibility for anything resulted in its failure to make a risk assessment for a pandemic, even after the UK Government ran a preparedness exercise. Wales’s approach to the preparedness exercise, Exercise Cygnus, didn’t even assess the threat nationally but depended on reports from four so-called “local resilience forums”.

An influenza epidemic was ranked a Tier One threat to the UK by the Westminster Government. The Welsh Government

didn’t list the threat of an epidemic on its corporate risk register, relegating it to a Health and Social Care risk register.

The Welsh Government either has not or cannot provide a copy of that register to the Covid Inquiry.

In later evidence, Mark Drakeford excused the failure to provide a national risk assessment by claiming one was not a practical use of resources, and the Welsh Government relied on Westminster to prepare for a pandemic.

Even more startlingly, Dr Sir Frank Atherton, Wales’s Chief Medical Officer, acknowledged that specific risks relating to a future pandemicincluding genetic changes to a virus during onewere known to the Welsh Government years ahead of the pandemic but that no meaningful action was taken in respect of them.

CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER UNDERRESOURCED

Attempting to negotiate the mangrove thicket of Welsh NHS and Welsh

Government organisation, the Counsel to the Inquiry, Hugo Keith KC, highlighted the extent of silo working and lack of connection between different strands of health policy and planning. His questioning exposed a core issue. The Welsh Government and its various working groups, arms-length bodies, and executive and nonexecutive agencies did plenty of work on pandemic preparedness. However, the Welsh Government’s organisation was so disjointed and chaotic that it could never be ready to deal with a pandemic threat.

The chronic underfunding of the office of the Chief Medical Officer by the Welsh Government meant that when Covid struck, the key person in the Welsh Government’s response to the crisis could not deal with emails, let alone handle the volume of data coming in.

Even if Dr Sir Frank Atherton’s office had been properly resourced, a lack of ministerial diligence in the years preceding Covid meant the Welsh Government’s eye was off

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at

WG entitled to rely on Westminster to do the work for it: Mark Drakeford tells Inquiry

l aid Bare at u K W id e Covid iN quiry

BLUE ViEW

WiTH PAUL DAViES MS

Despair as Patients Struggle to Access NHS Dental Services in Pembrokeshire

Accessing an NHS dentist has long been a problem for many people in Pembrokeshire – but in recent months that problem has increased and it’s certainly the top issue that’s raised with me at the moment.

Patients have told me that they’ve not been able to access an NHS dentist, despite receiving NHS treatment at their dentist for years and I know a lot of people are living in severe discomfort and pain as they cannot afford private treatment.

In one very worrying case, a constituent was advised to buy a selffilling kit as a temporary solution whilst waiting for an appointment.

a workforce plan for the profession and I’m pleased to hear that HEIW has introduced an enhanced recruitment offer for graduates with potential placements in dental practices in west Wales. It’s a welcome step forward.

There’s also significant concerns with the new NHS Dental Contract, which I believe has led to some practices withdrawing partially or wholly from NHS dentistry and the Welsh Government must seriously listen to their concerns about the impact that the contract has on their businesses.

the ball.

GETHING DIDN’T READ KEY INFORMATION

Former Health Minister Vaughan Gething admitted failing to read a key report on pandemic preparedness. He explained that ministers had to prioritise their time. By inference, potential major public health crises and preparing for them were not a priority for him.

His evidence underlined his reputation as a Minister who “does not do the detail”, an observation made to The Herald by several Welsh politicianssome of whom sit on Welsh Government benchesboth before and during the pandemic.

Mr Gething told the Inquiry he expected that officials would’ve known about Wales’s pandemic preparedness and the progress - none - made since Exercise Cyngus. He said he expected his officials would have told him about the report’s content, Wales’s preparedness, and any actions needed to improve it.

The evidence from Dr Sir Frank Atherton,

given before Mr Gething’s, showed the Welsh Government commissioned work. That implies that Mr Gething was unaware of what was going on in the department for which he was nominally responsible as a Government minister.

His blase attitude extended to his observation that, in any event, Wales was insufficiently prepared for an influenza epidemic and would not have been able to meet the challenges one presented.

Mr Gething appeared to choke up when referring to the number of deaths, the isolation of dying patients with an infectious disease from their families, and the tragedy of families not being able to attend funerals for loved ones. It’s of little comfort, either to him or those affected, that every one of those factors was known to the Welsh Government at some level before the pandemic.

If Mr Gething knew of those assessments, his tears would be hypocritical. If he did not know, his role as Minister for Health was dispensable and redundant. The role could’ve been fulfilled by a civil servant,

probably with greater personal accountability.

A FAILURE OF LEADERSHIP

Throughout the pandemic, the Director of the Welsh NHS was Dr Andrew Goodall. Dr Goodall is now the Welsh Government’s top civil servant: Permanent Secretary to the Welsh Government.

Dr Goodall’s evidence began unpromisingly.

He had to be repeatedly pressed about whether the Welsh Government now had a corporate risk register looking at national threats to Wales’s administration and population.

Dr Goodall eventually got around to giving something approaching a direct answer to a simple yes or no question.

“Those arrangements haven’t been endorsed by ministers, but the resilience team have actually been producing a Wales risk register as one of our lessons learnt.”

Counsel for the Inquiry

Mr Hugo Keith KC pressed Dr Goodall further: “Has that team made a decision

on a piece of paper saying “The time has come to seek ministerial approval for the creation of a risk assessment process for Wales”?”

Dr Goodall finally conceded: “The team has not done that, in line with your wording, so no.”

It’s a remarkably relaxed approach to public health and national planning.

Unhelpfully, Mr Keith produced a Welsh Government document from 2014 setting out the hazards of failing to assess the risks the Welsh Government’s approach posed.

“If we fail to provide leadership to ensure Wales is prepared for and resilient to the full range of national hazards and threats, including pandemic influenza,terrorism, major flooding, severe weather and currently the impact of the fire fighters’ industrial action, then there is a risk to the health and well-being of the citizens of Wales.”

That is what happened.

Mark Drakeford was the Minister for Health when the Welsh Government received that advice. His deputy was Vaughan

This of course, is simply unacceptable and it’s vital that Hywel Dda University Health Board and the Welsh Government take urgent action to address this matter.

As luck would have it, I had the opportunity to raise NHS dental services with the First Minister in the Chamber last week.

I explained that access to an NHS dentist was a huge problem in Pembrokeshire and that more and more people were experiencing problems. His response was that 17,000 more NHS dental appointments have been made available this year. Well he may very well say that, but that’s certainly not the picture that I’m getting from people right across the county.

There are some deep seated problems with dental services across Wales and I won’t begin to pretend that I have all the answers, but in the first instance, it’s clear to me that much more needs to be done to recruit and retain dentists in west Wales.

Hywel Dda University Health Board say that it’s working closely with Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) to develop

Practices are stretched and many are at breaking point – and patients simply aren’t able to get the appointments they need. These problems need to be addressed – and addressed urgently so that patients can access the treatment they need, when they need it.

Of course, for those in need of urgent assistance, you can call NHS Direct Wales on 111. The Health Board has expanded its in week urgent access appointments, in order to ensure that patients with urgent needs are treated in a much more timely manner and it’s vital that if you, or someone you know is in this situation, that you call 111 and find out where best to go for treatment.

In the meantime, I’ll keep raising your concerns with the local Health Board and the Welsh Government and push for action – and if you have a specific concern that you need help with, please don’t hesitate to contact my office on 01437 766425 or email me at paul.davies@ senedd.wales

Pandemic: Welsh Government ignored warnings about probable impact on Wales

Across Wales, the legacy of the Conservative government’s economic mismanagement is hitting households hard, especially the Tory mortgage bombshell. Banks are withdrawing mortgage deals and the typical household is facing a hike of almost £240 a month more on their mortgage.

On average, that Tory mortgage penalty will add an eye-watering £2,000 to mortgages in Wales. The pain is even greater for households across Pembrokeshire –with an estimated 5,900 households paying £2,200 more in Preseli Pembrokeshire, and over 6,000 households coughing up £2,400 more in Carmarthen West & Pembrokeshire South.

Rishi Sunak may want to just keep putting his fingers in his ears (and avoiding turning up at Prime Minister’s Questions), but the reality is millions of families across Wales are feeling the pain from his party’s economic failure.

Not only have they driven this crisis with their economic recklessness, but their weak approach to mortgage lenders by failing to implement mandatory measures leaves millions of households missing out on the mortgage support they need.

Unlike the Conservatives, Labour will not stand by as millions face a mortgage catastrophe made in Downing Street. We have a five-point plan that could help ease the Tory mortgage crisis right now.

Firstly, we would require lenders to allow borrowers to switch to interest-only mortgage payments for a temporary period.

Secondly, we would require lenders to allow borrowers to lengthen the term of their mortgage period.

Under our plans, lenders would be required to reverse any mortgage support measures when the borrower requests.

We would also require lenders to wait a minimum of

six months before initiating repossession proceedings.

Currently, some lenders are offering similar measures, but because the government hasn’t required them to do so, many borrowers are at risk of missing out.

Finally, we would instruct the Financial Conduct Authority to issue consumer guidance urgently, stating that borrowers’ credit scores should not be affected if they make temporary switches to interest-only mortgage payments and or lengthen the term of their mortgage period.

We would also tackle the knock-on impact the Tory mortgage bombshell is causing for renters, creating more security for people who are renting.

Last month, Conservative MPs ignored Labour’s plea to take at least some responsibility for their mortgage bombshell when they voted against our proposal to ease the Tory mortgage penalty straight away. This shows how out of touch they are.

Instead of weak leadership from Rishi Sunak, people across Wales need a government that will get a grip and tackle the cost-of-living challenges that households are facing.

Labour general election candidates across Wales, like Henry Tufnell in the new Mid and South Pembrokeshire constituency, are listening to residents and focusing on the issues that matter to you.

People across Wales deserve hope and optimism about the future. Rishi Sunak must finally find a backbone, call a general election, and let you have your say on 13 years of Tory failure.

DRAKEFORD: WE RELIED ON WESTMINSTER TO PREPARE FOR A PANDEMIC IN WALES

First Minister Mark Drakeford told the Inquiry the Welsh Government focused on the risks of a no-deal Brexit above any other known risks.

He said when he met his first Cabinet as First Minister, his Government was “already turning its sights very firmly to a danger that was right in front of you.”

He described it as a “matter of disappointment” that a review of civil contingency structures, planned for 2018, did not take place until this year.

Or, putting it another way, as Dr Andrew Goodall did, the Welsh Government is “looking to produce one”.

Mr Drakeford blamed the Westminster Government for not providing Cardiff Bay with more resources to handle the extra responsibilities Labour sought for the devolved administration. He also admitted that the Welsh Government did not plan more thoroughly for a pandemic because, Micawber-like, it expected something to turn up from Westminster.

That statement casts the Welsh Government’s response to the pandemic in a curious and contradictory light. During the pandemic, Welsh ministers took

pains to highlight Wales’s separateness from England while claiming to follow the same scientific advice the UK Government got. The intellectual disconnect between “before” and “during” is striking. Either the Welsh Government did not have the resources to respond to the pandemic, in which case trying to secure its own PPE during the pandemic was a political stunt, or it knew it could rely on the UK Government to bail it out for its failure to prepare. Neither Mr Drakeford nor his ministers can have it both ways. Either “the Welsh way” of dealing with the pandemic was a political stunt or the Welsh Government had all the powers it needed and chose not to prepare for a pandemic deliberately or by omission.

The First Minister’s evidence also ran contrary to evidence already given by its Chief Medical Officer.

Mark Drakeford told the Inquiry the Welsh Government knew the pandemic’s impact would be unequal. He then said it was “difficult to anticipate in advance of that pandemic where those inequalities would most fall”.

However, in his evidence to the Inquiry, Dr Sir Frank Atherton already confirmed that a key planning document, prepared while Mr Drakeford was Health Minister, set out the groups of “vulnerable people” most likely to be affected by a pandemic.

Either Mr Drakeford

“The fact that he described himself as a layman, having no experience or knowledge of pandemic preparedness despite being Health Minister for four years, will not hold water with the public.

“Likewise, given his failure to answer basic questions, the people of Wales will be shocked to hear him state that preparedness would have been improved if he had spent more time reading and making himself aware of the difficulties.”

failed to read that document, or civil servants in his department thought it too unimportant to bother him. In either case, the issue highlights the axiom that if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail.

And that was a common thread throughout all the evidence given to the Inquiry by the people who could - and should - have been on top of Wales’s pandemic preparedness.

The best that can be said of Mr Drakeford’s evidence and that of Mr Gething is that they admitted their complacency and that of the Welsh Government with disarming honesty.

That’s of scant comfort to the families of the bereaved.

GETHING COPS THE FLAK

Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister Russell George MS said: “Vaughan Gething’s questioning at the UK Covid Inquiry was very telling.

“He admitted that he hadn’t read several key documents, including the UK influenza pandemic preparedness strategy, until needing to do so to prepare for the Inquiry.

“He was also unable to identify pandemic influenza as a ‘tier 1 risk’ even today and did not seek any evidence into the hazard of pandemic influenza, despite stating that he may have done had he read one of the documents.

Plaid Cymru spokesperson for health and care, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, said: “It is clear from the evidence heard to date that the pandemic planning in Wales was seriously inadequate, and there was much Welsh Government could and should have done to enable us to be better prepared.

“World experts warned of an influenza-style pandemic – even Hollywood made a film about it! If Hollywood knew about it, then I would expect Welsh Government to have read anything that would have helped them better prepare for a global pandemic. The Exercise Cygnus Report –with ‘Pandemic Influenza’ on the front cover- is an example.

“Plaid Cymru has been clear since the early days of the pandemic that the decisions made in Wales should be scrutinised in Wales. The fact we’re barely scratching the surface in this UK Covid Inquiry points again to the fact that we deserve our own, Wales-specific Covid inquiry.”

Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice Cymru were even less impressed by Mr Gething.

“He was clueless.

“The Inquiry Legal Team were openly mocking him, and he was totally unaware.

“We were there. He made the room stink of blind arrogance, and the bereaved families in attendance felt another boot of indifference in their sides.

“We heard a lot of devastating tales of unpreparedness, but his was delivered with a cold, calculating and narcissistic approach.”.

W ITH Jo S TEVENS , W ELSH L AB o UR MP AND S HAD o W S ECRETAR y o F S TATE F o R WALES

Gething.

“Clueless”; Gething didn’t read pre-pandemic advice until preparing for Inquiry appearance.

Criticism of “destructive” approach to devolution

MICK ANTONIW, the Welsh Government’s Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution, has criticised the UK Government’s unilateral and destructive approach to devolution.

It comes ahead of a speech to the Constitutional and Administrative Law Bar Association’s annual conference, delivered 24 years to the day since the National Assembly for Wales – now the Welsh Parliament – came into existence.

Mick Antoniw said that during this period the devolution settlement has never been under as much strain as it is now, citing the UK Government’s regular breaches of the Sewel Convention – which sets out that the UK’s Parliament will not normally legislative in devolved matters without the consent of the devolved parliaments.

Recent years have seen the UK Internal Market Act, the Professional Qualifications Act and the Subsidy Control Act come into force without consent from the Senedd. In recent months the Senedd has also voted to refuse consent for the Retained EU Law Bill and the Illegal Migration Bill, which are currently going through the legislative process.

Mick Antoniw said:

“Despite our efforts to work collaboratively, the UK Government has chosen a centralised, unilateral and

destructive approach to the devolution settlement.

“It has repeatedly pushed ahead with legislation in devolved areas without the consent of the Senedd. In doing so it disrespects a democratically elected body and denies the people who elected its members of accountability. We have never seen this level of strain in the devolution settlement during the entire 24 years of its existence.

“And these attacks on the devolution settlement are not the only way the constitution is under strain. The UK Government is actively undermining parliaments and the courts, institutions that provide vital scrutiny as well as checks and balances. Civil liberties are under attack, including through the Public Order Bill which risks weakening fundamental freedoms around the right to protest. And the introduction of Voter ID saw around 14,000 turned away from polling stations in English local elections, raising real concerns over the integrity of the electoral system.”

Mick Antoniw added: “Carrying on with the status quo is not an option, and the foundations for reform are in place. The Commission on the UK’s Future, chaired by Gordon Brown, set out a series of radical proposals for constitutional reform at the end of last year –including a new legally

binding formulation of the Sewel convention. And by the end of this year the Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales is due to publish its final report, building on its interim report after extending its conversation with the

people of Wales. “It is incumbent on all politicians to build on these foundations, listen to the views of the people we serve, respect the constitution and deliver reformed structures that can improve outcomes and strengthen communities.”

Welsh Conservatives select PCC candidate

THE WELSH CONSERVATIVES have selected their candidate for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner elections in May 2024.

Ian Harrison is a Powys County Councillor who lives near Welshpool, and he is passionate about the communities he serves.

He said: “People in this area want to live free of crime, and free of the fear of crime. If I am elected, I will do my level best to help make sure that happens. My absolute priority will be to listen to residents – and then take action. “

Ian trained as a Master Brewer, and worked in both the brewing and the pharmaceutical industries.

He is a seasoned political campaigner having worked locally on two successful general election campaigns, before being elected to

the council. Ian is a long standing school governor and has been involved in a number of local voluntary projects.

During the pandemic he set up a volunteer group to distribute food and medicine to residents and persuaded local retailers to deliver direct to doors.

The married father of three has pledged to work with Dyfed-Powys officers to deliver the most efficient service possible - and cut crime.

He said: “Rural crime is a particular problem. It often goes unreported, but it damages local businesses – and just like anti-social behaviour – it blights lives.” He added: “We live in a fantastic part of Wales, and my ambition is to make it safer.”

Busting county lines drugs gangs is also high on Ian’s agenda.

Ian is a former chair of Guilsfield Community Council and actively supports many voluntary

THE RIGHT to vote in Wales is being insidiously and covertly undermined.

A report published by the Electoral Commission found that during the recent Council elections in England, a staggering 14,000 people were turned away from polling booths for failing to show their ID (Identification documents such as passports or driving licenses).

The report also found that 74% of people who did not possess ID were not aware of the need to bring one to vote, and only 57% of people were aware that they could apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.

It is important to note that according to the data, nearly two-thirds of those who were rejected at the ballot box returned later in the day to vote, having acquired the correct form of ID.

While most people noted in the report were eventually able to vote, it is essential to point out that turnout for Council elections is consistently lower than turnout during UK parliamentary elections.

According to data from The Elections Centre, the percentage of overall turnout for Council elections in the United Kingdom during 2022 ranged from 23.4% to 51.2%. By contrast, turnout during the 2019 UK General election was 67.3%.

Therefore, new ID requirements have the potential to have major implications for UK parliamentary and Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) elections in Wales.

So much so, that Jess Blair, director of The Electoral Reform Society in Wales has gone so far as to suggest that Wales is facing a “ticking time bomb”, which could see thousands of voters disenfranchised in Wales, at the next general election.

Organisations such as The Electoral Reform Society argue that compelling voters to bring ID in order to vote risks disenfranchising poor and marginalised communities.

Indeed, research from The Electoral Commission shows that people without approved

community clubs, groups and associations.

photo ID are more likely to be from disadvantaged communities.

For instance, 10 – 17% of those renting from their local authority or housing association, 14% of unemployed, 8% of those who are DE social grade and 7% of those with lower education attainment levels are less likely to possess photo ID.

IFF Research also shows that the need to produce ID at polling stations would make it difficult to vote for 12% of those with a severely limiting disability and 8% of those with a somewhat limiting disability.

The UK Government’s own estimates suggests that around 100,000 people are believed to lack photo ID in Wales – around 4.3% of the Welsh electorate.

Given that there is also a correlation between voting and affluence and that young people are frequently underrepresented at the polls, this is a ticking time bomb indeed, with the new rules likely to further deter young people and those from disadvantaged groups from voting.

All this was followed by news last week that changes proposed by the Boundary Commission for Wales mean that the number of parliamentary seats in Wales will be reduced from 40 to 32 at the next General election. While boundary changes will not impact the ability to vote, they will further reduce Wales’ representation at Westminster – an institution which is increasingly appearing out of touch with the people of Wales. Is it any wonder therefore that the latest polls show that support for Welsh independence is back up to over a third?

Westminster’s attempts to undermine democracy should not play a role in shaping ours.

Our path to democracy lies not at the UK parliamentary level, but at our own – as a sovereign and independent country where we should be free to determine our own course rather than be shaped by the politics of Westminster. Join Yes Cymru today.

Death Notices

GLy N J o NES

MR GLYN JONES

LUDCHURCH The death occurred suddenly at home on Tuesday 27th June 2023 of Mr Glyn Jones, aged 59 years of New House Farm, Ludchurch. Glyn will be dearly missed by his family and many friends. He touched the lives and hearts of many people. The funeral service will take place on Monday 17th July 2023 at Parc Gwyn

Crematorium, Narberth at 1.00pm. It is the wish of the family that blue or navy clothing is worn to the funeral service. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired, for The Paul Sartori Foundation c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk

DAV i D DAV i ES MR. DAVID DAVIES

PRINCES GATE The death occurred peacefully at home on Thursday 22nd June 2023 of Mr. David Davies affectionately known as ‘Dai’ aged 67 years of Princes Gate. A well respected building contractor in the locality, David was a devoted husband to Shirley. Loving Dad of Jackie, Louise and Marie. Cherished ‘Bumpa’ A much-loved father-in-

Pause for thought...

The headline was about as blunt as it gets. ‘The liar in chief has gone’. The author was referring to Boris of course and doing so in the light of the shattering Parliamentary enquiry which led to his resignation as an MP.

having said that i was particularly struck by something else i read in this particular article. i quote ‘he hints at a return. i doubt it. he’s more nixon than Schwarzenegger’.

i found myself drawn to that because it reminded me of something i had recently read about the ‘Terminator’s’ thoughts on life after death and the possibility of resurrection. Thoughts it would seem that ‘arnie’ shared in an interview with fellow actor danny devito.

When asked what happens to us when we die the all-action star recalled something he had said in a previous conversation in which he had claimed that when you’re dead ‘you’re 6 feet under’ and anyone that tells you something else is a

liar. he was quite prepared to admit he is not an expert of course, and he wanted everyone to know that he was talking about people’s bodies not their souls, but where our bodies are concerned we will never see each other again like that. i found that fascinating not least because it got me wondering if he thought Jesus was lying when he said ‘don’t be so surprised! indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son, and they will rise again. Those who have done good will rise to experience eternal life, and those who have continued in evil will rise to experience judgment’.

Jesus could have been telling lies of course, but I can’t figure out why he would want to do that. Just as importantly i am puzzled as to why His first followers were so determined to tell everyone that he had been resurrected from the dead even though it often resulted in them being persecuted and put to death

themselves.

i spent a lot of time reflecting on these questions many years ago and i reached the conclusion that firstly, Jesus really did believe it would happen, and secondly, the disciples were convinced that it really had! it began with the discovery that his tomb was empty but that was followed by a series of amazing experiences in which they said he had passed through locked doors, eaten with them and disappeared from sight at will. even his own brother became a believer and was willing to be executed because of his faith.

So, did Jesus lie? Did the first disciples lie when they wrote the new Testament? Was the apostle Peter willing to be crucified upside down in Rome for a lie? I find the reasoning implausible and thankfully death is not the terminator that arnie thinks it is because no one could ever describe Jesus as ‘the liar in chief’.

ROB JaMeS

For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

law, brother, brother-inlaw and uncle The funeral service will take place on Thursday 6th July 2023 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1:45pm. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired, for The Paul Sartori Foundation 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 or via www. ecthomasandson.co.uk

M RS Do R i S

E L iz ABETH

S ECRETT

Mrs Doris Elizabeth Secrett Croesgoch

Suddenly but peacefully on Tuesday 20th June at Bronglais Hospital, Doris of Croesgoch. Beloved wife of Andrew, loving mother of Paul, Robert and Emma, a much-loved grandmother and great grandmother. Funeral service on Wednesday 12th July at St Mary Magdalene Church, Wiston at 10:30am followed by interment in the Churchyard. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to the ‘British Heart Foundation’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel: 01348 873250.

G RACE

E L iz ABETH

G R i FF i THS

Grace Elizabeth Griffiths

Wife of the late Aneurin Griffiths of Penparc, Trefin, devoted mother of Dewi and Alwyn passed away peacefully on Wednesday 28 June after a long

battle with dementia. Her funeral will be held at the W.G.Mathias Chapel of Rest, New Street, St Davids on Thursday 6 July at 2pm followed by internment at Tretio. Family flowers only please with donations to Dementia UK c/o Bernard Mathias, Funeral Director, 64 New Street, St. Davids. Bu farw Grace Elizabeth Griffiths, gwraig y diweddar Aneurin Griffiths o Benparc, Trefin, a mam addfwyn Dewi ac Alwyn, yn dawel yn ei chwsg ar fore Mercher 28 Mehefin. Bydd ei hangladd ar ddydd Iau 6 Gorffennaf am 2pm yn y Capel Gorffwys yn New Street, Tyddewi, cyn symud i’r fynwent yn Tretio. Blodau’r teulu yn unig, gyda unrhyw rhoddion i Dementia UK dan ofal Bernard Mathias, Trefnwr Angladdau, 64 Stryd Newydd, Tyddewi.

C HR i ST i NA

Mo RR i S

Mrs Christina Morris Dinas Cross Surrounded by family, Christina Morris of Maesyffynnon Dinas

Cross passed away peacefully on Sunday 25th June at Withybush Hospital. Cherished wife of Roy, loving mother of Debbie, Richard, Daniel and Lorna, devoted nanny, great grandmother and a much-loved sister, sisterin-law, aunty and great aunty. Funeral service on Friday July 21st at 10:00am at Holy Name Church, Fishguard. A burial will follow at St Mary’s cemetery Fishguard. All are invited to join us at both the service and the burial. Flowers are welcome and should be directed to Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel

- 01348 873250.

S USAN C EC i L i A (S UE ) Wi LL i AMS

WILLIAMS Susan Cecilia

(Sue) Peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Saturday 17th June 2023

Susan Cecilia (Sue) Williams of Hook aged 71 years. Beloved partner of Jim, much loved mother and mother-in-law of Emma and Iain, Natasha and Ryan, Ben and Kelly, adored grandma of Seren, Evie, Tom, Freya, Samuel, Joseph and Summer. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 12th July, 11:30am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to Macmillan Cancer Support may be sent c/o Natasha Williams, Carew Farm, Bosherston, Pembroke, SA71 5DS or tributefunds.macmillan. org.uk/in-memory/ SueWilliams Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418.

P HILIP M ALCOLM

T H o MAS

THOMAS Philip Malcolm known as Malcolm passed away suddenly on June 6th at Torestin Care Home. Beloved brother of Norma, Shirley and Paul and the late Clive and Kaye. Family flowers only, donations in lieu, if so desired, can be made to the RNLI. The funeral service will take place at 3.00pm on Wednesday 19th July at Roy Folland & Son Chapel of Rest, 2729 Cartlett, Haverfordwest, SA61 2LH. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

picture of the week!

STHE NOTION OF MiNiMALiSM

I recently read the book ‘Four Horsemen,’ which features a discussion among four renowned atheists: two philosophers, one genetic biologist, and a journalist. Their aim is to discredit all religious faiths and promote Atheism as the only rational belief for humans. While some of them are more aggressive in denying any virtue to religious lives, their arguments rely entirely on the notion of minimalism.

When someone claims to be an Atheist or a Materialist, they are essentially asserting that they already know there cannot be a Creator or abstract components, such as Ethics, in this universe. However, it is neither possible, rational, nor sensible to claim knowledge about what cannot exist in the universe. Regardless of whether one person or a

billion people make the same assertions based on the same evidence, it amounts to nothing more than personal opinions. “Negative” knowledge of “what cannot exist” cannot be determined by voting.

It is perfectly reasonable for someone to prefer not to believe in the existence of God after consulting individuals with that view whom they respect. To ignore possible inspiration from figures like the Quaker George Fox or John Newton, the ex-captain of a slave ship who wrote ‘Amazing Grace,’ would be a display of damaging conceit. These individuals found moral vision even as their circumstances changed, such as George Fox’s spiritual journey or John Newton’s blindness.

However, it’s important to note that evidence for religious faith, drawn from human history, is distinct from the philosophical discussion presented in the book. While astrology, the belief that stars govern human lives, may have had influence in the past, it holds little appeal for many of us today since we

cannot detect any tangible link. Nevertheless, both religious individuals and atheists should acknowledge that it is also impossible to prove astrology wrong. Humans have discovered truths in fields such as Physics and Metaphysics, yet we have yet to find any definitive limits.

gormod o siwgr, braster, a halen. Mae pobl Cymru yn dioddef o afiechyd y galon yn fwy ac yn cael diagnosis o ganser, ac mae’r triniaeth ar gyfer clefyd siwgr math 2 yn gwario tua 10% o gyllideb CIG Cymru.

DEAR SIR

Y mae’n cael ei ddweud bod tua 60% o’r oedolion yng Nghymru dros eu pwysau ac y mae tua 30% o blant yn dros eu pwysau wrth ddechrau yn yr ysgol. Fel cenedl, ni fu gennym erioed drafferthion penodol ynghylch ein pwysau, ond mae’n amlwg erbyn hyn fod pobl Cymru yn mynd yn afiach. Nid ydym yn mynd i’w hachub gydag digon o ymarfer corff rheolaidd, ac mae gennym dueddiad i fwyta prydau bwyd a byrbrydau sy’n cynnwys

Gan ganolbwyntio ar archfarchnadoedd, mae’r Senedd yn amlinellu cynlluniau i wella cynnwys y pethau mewn pecynnau bwyd arbennig fel ‘meal-deal’, yn ogystal â hyrwyddiadau arbennig fel ‘cael-tri-am-brisdau’ neu ‘prynu-un-gydagun-am-ddim’. Bydd y cynigion hyn yn cael eu cyflwyno’n ffurfiol i’r Senedd yn 2024 gyda’r nod o ddechrau gweithredu yn ystod 2025. Mae San Steffan a Holyrood yn ystyried cynigion tebyg, gan roi sylw i fwydau sy’n iachach.

Nid yw pawb yn fodlon gyda’r cynigion hyn. Dywed rhai fod digon o bobl yng Nghymru yn mwynhau ‘meal deal’ weithiau ac maent yn iach fel afal, heb fod dros eu pwysau. Mae gan bawb hawl i ddewis y pethau y maent yn eu prynu, ac ni ddylai’r Senedd ymyrryd.

Barn arall yw bod y bobl

sy’n dros eu pwysau yn gyfrifol am y pethau y maent yn eu bwyta - neu faint maent yn eu bwyta - ac y dylent dalu am eu triniaeth feddygol eu hunain oherwydd eu bod yn euog o hunan-newid hirdymor. A fyddai hynny’n syniad da? A ddylai’r un peth fod yn berthnasol i bobl sy’n defnyddio cyffuriau adloniant neu yfed alcohol yn ormodol?

Patrick Soper

Nick Landon Chief Commercial Officer Royal Mail A FANTASTiC CARNIvAL

DEAR SIR

I am writing to express my admiration for the fantastic Carnival that took place last Saturday. The event was a true wonder, with an array of vibrant displays and a delightful variety of colors. It was evident that a tremendous amount of effort went into creating the floats, and the children dancing along the way brought

DEAR SIR

C. N. Westerman , A FyDDAi HyNNy’N SyNiAD DA?

Broad walks - Andy Vaughan

an extra layer of joy as we applauded their performances.

I must mention that the turnout along Hamilton Terrace was unprecedented. It was heartening to see such a large crowd gathered, and we were fortunate to have favorable weather for the occasion. All participants deserve commendation for their incredible costumes, particularly the splendid showcase of Victorian period fashions.

I would like to extend my congratulations to The Herald for sponsoring such a memorable day of celebration. It was a testament to their commitment to fostering community spirit and creating lasting moments of joy. Additionally, I had the pleasure of observing Reverend Andy Bookless, his wife Helen, and The Church of Living Hope during the festivities.

The bands provided outstanding entertainment, and I was particularly impressed by the performance of the

Swansea band and the exceptional Oliver Twist float.

I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone involved for their hard work and dedication in organizing this event. Your inspiring community efforts have made a significant impact, and the carnival stands as a testament to the strong bonds that unite us all.

Richard Simon Barnes ,

IMPORTANT CHANGE IN PoSTAGE STAMP REGULATioNS

DEAR SIR

I am writing to inform your readers about an important change in postage stamp regulations that will take effect from 1st August. It has come to my attention that many individuals may not be aware of the new requirements, which could lead to potential inconveniences and surcharges when

sending mail.

Starting from 1st August, the familiar “everyday” stamps featuring the Queen’s head on a plain colored background will only be considered valid if they bear a unique barcode on the right-hand side. Any items mailed using the old, non-barcoded stamps after this date will incur a surcharge for the recipient.

To avoid any complications, I strongly encourage everyone to utilize their existing stock of non-barcoded stamps before 31st July. For those who are unable to do so, Royal Mail has introduced a straightforward and free Swap Out scheme. Through this initiative, customers can exchange their non-barcoded stamps for new ones with barcodes. It is our aim to ensure that no individual is financially disadvantaged as a result of this change.

To facilitate the stamp swap process, a leaflet with a form has been distributed to every household. Alternatively,

customers can visit our website to print out the required form, contact our Customer Experience team to request a form, or collect one from a local Royal Mail delivery office or Post Office.

It is important to note that non-barcoded Christmas and other Special stamps, featuring various pictures, will remain valid for postage and should not be swapped. We understand the sentimental value attached to these stamps and wish to preserve their significance.

For more detailed information regarding this stamp transition, I encourage readers to visit our website at Know where your old stamps are? | Royal Mail Group Ltd.

By taking these steps, we can ensure a smooth transition and avoid any unnecessary complications when sending mail. Thank you for helping us spread the word about this important change.

EVERy MoMENT CoUNTS

DEAR SIR

Did your readers know that deaf children often fall behind in their development, because they’re not getting the right support in their early years? It’s an especially critical time for deaf children, because of the impact their deafness can have on language development, communication and social skills.

Without good communication skills learned early on, a deaf child could face lifelong challenges. For instance, when they start school they may come up against many barriers, like struggling to understand instructions in the classroom and conversations with their peers, all leading to feelings of isolation and a sense of ‘missing out’.

To make matters worse, Teachers of the Deaf, who provide specialist

,

support and make such a difference to a deaf child’s life, are in decline. One in five qualified Teachers of the Deaf posts in Wales have been cut since 2011. It’s a scandal.

Here at the National Deaf Children’s Society, we’re determined to do something about it. That’s why we’ve just launched our new five-year plan, Every Moment Counts, which calls for more support, more quickly, for deaf children during those vital early years. We won’t rest until every deaf child receives the right support as early as possible.

For more information about Every Moment counts, visit www.ndcs.org. uk/everymomentcounts

The National Deaf Children’s Society supports the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and young people. For anyone needing advice, support or information about deafness, please call our free Helpline on 0808 800 8880 or visit our website, www.ndcs.org.uk

SerViceS

CARAVANS

CLEARANCES

CAR PARTS

ELECTRICAL

FENCiNG, DRiVEWAyS AND LANDSCAPiNG

HAiRDRESSiNG

CARPENTRy

CAMERAS & PHoToGRAPHy

FABRiCATioN

GARDENiNG AND LANDSCAPiNG

HANDyMAN

OvEN CLEANING

RECLAiMED BUiLDiNG MATERiAL

RUBBiSH AND WASTE REMoVAL PRoFESSioNAL CAR WASH

B a r r y J o h n i s a r e n o w n e d a r t i s t f r o m W a l e s w h o h a s m a d e a s i g n i f i c a n t i m p a c t o n t h e a r t w o r l d H i s w o r k s a r e c h a r a c t e r i z e d b y a u n i q u e b l e n d o f t r a d i t i o n a l a n d c o n t e m p o r a r y s t y l e s , w h i c h h a s e a r n e d h i m r e c o g n i t i o n f r o m a r t e n t h u s i a s t s a r o u n d t h e w o r l d O n e o f t h e p l a c e s w h e r e h i s w o r k s a r e p r o m i n e n t l y d i s p l a y e d i s a t t h e V C G a l l e r y i n H a v e r f o r d w e s t , w h i c h h a s b e c o m e a h u b f o r c o n t e m p o r a r y a r t l o v e r s i n t h e r e g i o n T h e V C G a l l e r y , f o u n d e d b y B a r r y J o h n i n 2 0 1 3 , i s a n o n - p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n d e d i c a t e d t o p r o m o t i n g m e n t a l h e a l t h a w a r e n e s s t h r o u g h a r t T h e g a l l e r y f e a t u r e s w o r k s b y v a r i o u s a r t i s t s , i n c l u d i n g t h o s e w h o h a v e b e e n a f f e c t e d b y m e n t a l h e a l t h i s s u e s T h e g a l l e r y ' s m i s s i o n i s t o p r o v i d e a p l a t f o r m f o r a r t i s t s t o s h o w c a s e t h e i r w o r k s , c o n n e c t w i t h t h e c o m m u n i t y , a n d r a i s e a w a r e n e s s a b o u t m e n t a l h e a l t h

B a r r y J o h n ' s w o r k s a r e p r o m i n e n t l y d i s p l a y e d a t t h e V C G a l l e r y , a n d t h e y o f t e n t a k e c e n t e r s t a g e a t t h e v a r i o u s e x h i b i t i o n s h e l d a t t h e g a l l e r y J o h n ' s w o r k s a r e k n o w n f o r t h e i r b o l d c o l o r s , i n t r i c a t e d e t a i l s , a n d h i s a b i l i t y t o c a p t u r e t h e e s s e n c e o f h i s s u b j e c t s H i s p i e c e s r a n g e f r o m s t u n n i n g l a n d s c a p e s t o p o r t r a i t s o f p e o p l e , w h i c h a r e a l l c r e a t e d u s i n g a u n i q u e c o m b i n a t i o n o f t e c h n i q u e s t h a t m a k e h i s w o r k s s t a n d o u t O n e o f t h e m o s t n o t a b l e a s p e c t s o f J o h n ' s w o r k s i s h i s a b i l i t y t o i n c o r p o r a t e t r a d i t i o n a l W e l s h i m a g e r y i n t o h i s p i e c e s H e o f t e n i n c o r p o r a t e s s y m b o l s a n d i m a g e r y f r o m W e l s h m y t h o l o g y , h i s t o r y , a n d c u l t u r e i n t o h i s w o r k s , w h i c h g i v e s t h e m a d i s t i n c t s e n s e o f p l a c e a n d i d e n t i t y F o r i n s t a n c e , s o m e o f h i s w o r k s f e a t u r e t h e i c o n i c W e l s h d r a g o n , w h i l e o t h e r s s h o w c a s e t r a d i t i o n a l W e l s h c o s t u m e s o r t h e c o u n t r y s i d e

T h e V C G a l l e r y p r o v i d e s a u n i q u e p l a t f o r m f o r a r t i s t s l i k e B a r r y J o h n t o s h o w c a s e t h e i r w o r k s a n d c o n n e c t w i t h t h e c o m m u n i t y T h e g a l l e r y h o s t s v a r i o u s e x h i b i t i o n s t h r o u g h o u t t h e y e a r , s h o w c a s i n g w o r k s f r o m d i f f e r e n t a r t i s t s a n d s t y l e s . V i s i t o r s t o t h e g a l l e r y c a n e x p e c t t o s e e a d i v e r s e r a n g e o f w o r k s , i n c l u d i n g p a i n t i n g s , s c u l p t u r e s , p h o t o g r a p h s , a n d i n s t a l l a t i o n s I n a d d i t i o n t o e x h i b i t i n g w o r k s , t h e V C G a l l e r y a l s o h o s t s v a r i o u s e v e n t s a n d w o r k s h o p s , p r o v i d i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r a r t i s t s a n d t h e c o m m u n i t y t o c o m e t o g e t h e r a n d c o n n e c t T h e s e e v e n t s o f t e n r e v o l v e a r o u n d m e n t a l h e a l t h a w a r e n e s s a n d a r t t h e r a p y , h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e r o l e t h a t a r t c a n p l a y i n p r o m o t i n g m e n t a l w e l l b e i n g B a r r y J o h n a n d t h e V C G a l l e r y h a v e m a d e a s i g n i f i c a n t i m p a c t o n t h e a r t w o r l d i n W a l e s a n d b e y o n d T h e i r c o m m i t m e n t t o p r o m o t i n g m e n t a l h e a l t h a w a r e n e s s t h r o u g h a r t h a s i n s p i r e d m a n y a r t i s t s a n d e n t h u s i a s t s , a n d t h e i r w o r k s c o n t i n u e t o i n s p i r e a n d c a p t i v a t e a u d i e n c e s W h e t h e r y o u a r e a n a r t l o v e r o r s i m p l y l o o k i n g f o r a u n i q u e e x p e r i e n c e , a v i s i t t o t h e V C G a l l e r y i s s u r e t o b e a n e n r i c h i n g a n d f u l f i l l i n g e x p e r i e n c e B a r r y J o h n A r t i s t i s a t T e m p l e , C i t y O f L o n d o n . T h i s u n i q u e h i s t o r i c a l g r a f f i t i c o m m i s s i o n i s a b o u t t h e r i c h f a b r i c h i s t o r y o f t h e T e m p l e r e g i o n o f L o n d o n . I t s p a n s 6 0 0 y e a r s a n d h a s m a n y s t o r i e s e n t w i n e d w i t h i n t h e p a i n t i n g t h a t i s n o w i n s i t u i n L o n d o n a t a 5 0 0 y e a r o l d t a v e r n i n L i t t l e E s s e x S t r e e t T e m p l e L o n d o n .

H e w a s r e c e n t l y s e e n a t T e n b y M u s e u m a n d A r t G a l l e r y T e n b y I t w a s f a b u l o u s t o b e a p a r t o f ' T h e C e l e b r a t i o n o f W e l s h C o n t e m p o r a r y P a i n t i n g ' e x h i b i t i o n a t T e n b y M u s e u m

Breaking records: The life and death of John Godfrey Parry-Thomas

THE story of John Godfrey Parry-Thomas is a thrilling and sad one.

Having at one time held the land speed record, he also has the inevitable record of being the first driver to be killed in trying to achieve it.

Anyone who has visited the Pendine Sands in Carmarthenshire will be familiar with its motorsport history, and none are more famous or important to its history than J G ParryThomas.

This is his story.

He was the son of a vicar and born in Wrexham in April 1884. The family moved to nearby Oswestry when he was five years old and he was educated at Oswestry School where he is said to have raffled his sixpencea-week pocket money at a penny a chance to as many takers as he could find.

John was fascinated with engineering and studied electrical engineering at the City & Guilds Engineering College in London in 1902. There he first struck a friendship with Ken Thomson, who would become his assistant at Brooklands (Thomson later went on to head ‘Thomson & Taylor’ and work extensively with Sir Malcolm Campbell in the later development of Blue Bird).

By 1908 he had designed an infinite-ratio electrical transmission (now viewed to be 70 years ahead of it’s time!) and a partnership with Leyland saw it used in a London bus, railcars and a tramcar. Parry-Thomas was also much in demand on government advisory boards during WWI.

After numerous jobs he became the chief Engineer at Leyland Motors.

Leyland Motors investigated the possibility of building a massive luxury car. In 1917, he and his assistant, Reid Railton, started to design the Leyland Eight luxury motor car which was intended to compete with Rolls-Royce.

Aiming to make a perfect vehicle, the Leyland Eight was both magnificent and extremely expensive; in 1921 the car was available to the public at a cost of £2,700 for a five seater tourer.

The imposing motorcar, the Leyland Eight, was dubbed the ‘Lion of Olympia’ when shown at the 1920 Motor show in London.

The cars were expensive and only eight were built.

John Parry-Thomas tested each Leyland Eight to 100mph before delivery

at a time when the world land speed record was only 124mph.

Altogether, 14 cars were made, including 2 for the Maharajah of Patiala and one for Michael Collins, the Irish revolutionary leader. The cars were all fitted with different bodies and it was a Leyland Eight that ParryThomas used in his early competitions in 1922.

Despite the considerable reservations of the Leyland directors, Parry-Thomas raced one of the Leylands at Brooklands.

Racing became important to him, and he resigned from Leyland to become a professional motor racing driver.

The split was friendly and Parry-Thomas was given several chassis and a quantity of spares.

He went to live in a cottage in the grounds of Brooklands circuit. The racing world at this time had many famous characters including Count Zborowski who later died at Monza in 1924.

Parry-Thomas was able to buy a potential record breaking car, the Higham Special from Zorowski’s estate. It was fitted with a 27,059 cc Liberty aero engine, Benz gearbox and featured a chain final drive.

This car was christened “Babs” and he would work on the car in hopes of breaking the land speed record at Pendine.

This was in October 1925 but the weather precluded any chance of a record breaking run

To cap it all Henry Seagrave posted a speed of 152.33mph.

In April 1926 Babs was transported back to Pendine at Shell-Mex’s expense for another attempt. After a couple of warm-up runs Parry-Thomas achieved a speed of 169.30mph.

A day later he pushed the record over the 170mph mark.

Campbell was among those who sportingly congratulated ParryThomas and, in the nature of the challenge, he prepared his own car for another attempt on the record.

In January 1927 he achieved a top speed of 174.883mph.

1926 was undoubtedly his greatest year – as well as numerous race wins he twice broke the mile & Km WLSR then went on to break another 8 speed records in October – 12 successful record attempts in 5 months.

He even found time to offer some friendly advice to his friend Sir Malcolm Campbell in February 1927, concerning a gearbox problem in the new ‘Blue Bird’.

As the competition for the record increased ParryThomas wanted another crack at it; he knew Henry Seagrave was to attempt a run for 200 mph, in Florida.

He arrived back in Pendine, unwell with ‘Flu’, in March 1927 and with the assistance of Shell and Dunlop staff began to prepare the car for a run on the beach.

After the usual start and warm up procedures had been followed and he set off up the beach on a timed run.

The car skidded, turned over and over and then slewed round to face the sea.

The scene for those first to arrive was not pretty, Parry-Thomas was still in the car, he had a deep cuts to his neck, partially decapitated and burned.

Local myth to this day says that Parry-Thomas was fully decapitated in the incident, but this is not true.

The car was on fire and in order to retrieve the body from the blazing wreck two of Parry-Thomas’s crew had the unpleasant task of breaking the legs of the corpse before the fire prevented them reaching it.

The coroner’s verdict was accidental death and Parry-Thomas was buried at Saint Mary’s, Byfleet, Surrey.

The inscription on the headstone reads :

JOHN GODFREY PARRY THOMAS BORN 6th APRIL 1885

ACCIDENTALLY KILLED ON PENDINE SANDS WHEN ATTEMPTING WORLD’S MOTOR SPEED RECORD

3rd MARCH 1927

LIFE IS ETERNAL AND LOVE IS IMMORTAL AND DEATH, WHICH IS ONLY THE HORIZON IS NOTHING SAVE THE LIMIT OF OUR SIGHT.

In addition to his legacy

of achieving eye-watering top speeds, Parry-Thomas was also responsible for a number of patents between 1910 and 1926 which highlights his true skill and talent.

These patents include:

• Electrical Power Transmission. – 1910

• Power Transmission.1910

• Electrical Controller. –1911

• Winding Apparatus. –1913

• Power Transmission Mechanism. – 1914

• Suspension Of Rail Car Bodies And The Like. –1914

• Railway Motor Coach . – 1914

• Variable Speed Power Transmission. – 1915

• Gearing. – 1916

• Driving Of Road Vehicles. – 1916

• Driving Of Road And Rail Vehicles. – 1916

• Electric Power Transmission. – 1917

• Charging Of Accumulators from a variable Speed Dynamo Electric Machine. – 1918

• Power Transmission. –1918

• Power Transmission Mechanism On Rail And Road Trains and the like.. – 1919

• Electric Starting And Ignition System .- 1919

• Ignition Of InternalCombustion Engines.

– 1919

• Internal Combustion Engine (Lubrication). –

1920

• Method Of Testing Gear Wheels. – 1920

• Method Of Transmission Of Power. – 1920

• Clutch and Brake Control On Road Vehicles. – 1923 [re issue]

• Internal Combustion Engine. – 1924

• Valve Operating Mechanism For Internal Combustion Engines. –1924

• Clutch and Brake Control On Road Vehicles. – 1926 [re issue]

Forty years after his death, Owen Wyn-Owen, an engineering lecturer form Bangor Technical College was keen on the idea of digging up Babs from the sand with a view to a complete restoration.

This was easier said than done simply because some of the locals didn’t want the car resurrected while others did.

The army who had arrived during World War Two weren’t too keen on the idea as the point where Babs was buried was now surrounded by buildings. However, perseverance paid off and in 1969 the car was excavated and so began 15 years of painstaking restoration work to make Babs run again.

So the next time you’re driving through Pendine at 30mph, think of John Godfrey Parry-Thomas, who achieved incredible speed across the Pendine Sands.

The lost land of Cantre’r Gwaelod: The Welsh Atlantis?

DEEP down beneath the Atlantic Ocean, Plato wrote, is the lost city of Atlantis.

This mythical land has fired up the imagination for millenia, but a Welsh version, Cantre’r Gwaelod, hasn’t received quite the same level of fame.

Dating back centuries, the story of Cantre’r Gawelod – The Lost Land of Wales – is equally as enticing as that of Atlantis.

Many versions of the same story exist to explain how this area came to be claimed by the sea. Until about the 17th Century, the lost land was called Maes Gwyddno (the land of Gwyddno).

This early legend has it that the land was drowned when the priestess of a fairy well allowed the water to overflow.

But the legend which is known and told today, calls the land Cantre’r Gwaelod, which extended some 20 miles west of the current shoreline into what is now Cardigan Bay, and was ruled as part of the Kingdom of Meirionnydd by Gwyddno Garanhir, born circa 520 AD.

The land was said to be extremely fertile, so much so that it was said that any acre there was worth four acres elsewhere.

The catch was that the land depended on a dyke to protect it from the sea. The dyke had sluice gates that were opened at low tide to drain the water from the land, and closed as the tide returned.

According to the story, around 600 AD, one night a storm blew up from the south west, driving the spring tide against the sea walls.

The appointed watchman, Seithennin, a heavy drinker and friend of the King, was at a party in the King’s palace near Aberystwyth. Some say he fell asleep due to too much wine or that he was too busy having fun to notice the storm and to shut the sluices.

The water gates were left open, and the sea rushed in to flood the land of the Cantref, drowning over 16 villages.

The King and some of his court managed to escape by running to safety along Sarn Cynfelin, Gwyddno Garahir and his followers were forced to leave the lowlands and make a poorer living in the hills and valleys of Wales.

Another, more bawdy

version, maintains that Seithennin was a visiting local King, who, at the time of the storm, was intent on amorously distracting the fair maiden Mererid, who was in charge of the sluice gates. Successful in his mission, Mererid was therefore

unable to shut the gates, and the land was flooded.

Cantre’r Gwaelod was said to cover much of the lowlands now beneath Cardigan Bay, and many geographical features are connected to the legend.

The Sarnau, single ridges

several miles long, which run at roughly right angles to the shore, are located between each of the four river mouths in the north of the Bay.

Legend has it that these ridges are the remains of causeways built to give access to the present

mainland at high tide, but they are probably the remains of glacial moraines – formations of gravel, clay, sand and boulders left behind as the glaciers melted away at the end of the last Ice Age.

The legend has inspired many poems and songs

throughout the ages. It is first thought to be mentioned in the 750-year old Black Book of Carmarthen.

The Black Book, which was named after the colour of its binding, was written in 1250, and contained poems and much older material relating to events that had taken place centuries earlier, including a poem about Cantre’r Gwaelod.

The poem is called “Boddi Maes Gwyddno”, The Drowning of the Land of Gwyddno, and tells the early version of story where the maiden Mererid is held responsible for allowing the deluge that floods the land.

Whichever version of the legend you choose, it is said that if you listen closely you can hear the bells of the lost city ringing out from under the sea, especially on quiet Sunday mornings, and particularly if you’re in Aberdyfi, which is famous in Welsh folk legend as being the nearest place on dry land to Cantre’r Gwaelod.

The well-known song ‘The Bells of Aberdyfi’ became popular during the 18th Century in the music halls and is still popular during sing-songs in Welsh pubs today.

Milford Haven School crowned exceptional community champions

MILFORD HAVEN

SCHOOL has made history by becoming the first school in Pembrokeshire to be awarded the prestigious Gold Calon Y Gymuned (Heart of The Community) award.

The school’s outstanding commitment to family and community engagement has earned them this remarkable accolade, presented by the Foundation of Community Engagement.

The assessment took place on Tuesday, when Sue Davies, representing the Foundation, visited Milford Haven School to evaluate their community initiatives. Impressed by their

exceptional efforts, Davies not only awarded them the Calon Y Gymuned Heart of The Community award but also commended their hard work, dedication, and named them Exceptional Community Champions.

The morning was filled with excitement and pride as Davies shared her enthusiasm, stating, “What a wonderful morning we had at Milford Haven School. A school with a defined community culture, vision, and values. There is an ethos of no excuses, a collective responsibility, and a clear understanding that success is only possible if all community members are involved. There is a strong focus on

building mutually respectful working relationships. This was exemplified by the wonderful Prefect Team and their amazing input into the Community of Milford Haven. MHS is a true Canol y Gymuned. The Foundation thanks you all for your hard work and dedication to your community.”

Milford Haven School, the sole secondary school serving the town, takes immense pride in being a community school. Recognizing their crucial role in shaping and supporting the local community, the school operates with a deep sense of responsibility. They diligently and creatively establish and

nurture a robust network of connections throughout the town, ensuring the flourishing of their students and their families.

Miss Morris, the Headteacher, expressed her pride in the school community’s achievement, saying, “I am very proud of our whole school community. This award recognizes the hard work and dedication that our pupils, staff, and community put in every day to ensure that our young people and their families can thrive and take advantage of every opportunity. The Milford Haven community is extremely supportive and generous, and we are very proud to be a part of

it. I would like to take this opportunity to say Diolch yn fawr to those in our community who continue to support us, and my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved that has led to us successfully receiving this award.”

Milford Haven School understands the significance of engaging and empowering their school community, especially in these challenging times. By fostering strong community support and collaboration, they provide invaluable experiences that enable their students to achieve success on their educational journey. This recognition serves as a testament to their

unwavering commitment to placing the community at the heart of their school.

The Calon Y Gymuned award not only signifies the exceptional efforts of Milford Haven School but also serves as a symbol of their dedication to the betterment of their community. As pioneers in community engagement within Pembrokeshire, they have set a high standard for schools across the region, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Milford Haven School’s achievement stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving and supportive community for all.

‘Ready, Set, Read!’ with summer reading challenge

THE STARTING whistle is set to blow on this summer’s reading challenge and Pembrokeshire Libraries is inviting all children aged four to 11 to take part.

Developed by the Reading Agency in collaboration with the Youth Sport Trust, ‘Ready, Set, Read’ will celebrate play, sport and games.

Starting from 8th July, children will join a fictional team, designed by the children’s writer and illustrator Loretta Schauer, as they use their skills to weave their way through a summer obstacle course.

You can take part at your local library, where children can borrow and read books, eBooks and audiobooks of their choosing. They will collect special stickers and rewards for reading and can attend events throughout the holidays.

Just drop in to your local library and ask to register your child. If you are not a member of the library, you will need to bring ID that includes your address.

For inspiration about what to read visit the online Pembrokeshire Libraries catalogue, select ‘Find Library Books’ and search for the ‘Ready Set Read’ book collection. The booklist features English and Welsh language titles and includes picture books, early readers and non-fiction books. If you can’t make it to a library, children can also take part via the official Summer Reading Challenge website, where they can sign up for a free Challenge profile and get book recommendations and tips for accessing books for free at home. They can review books, unlock digital rewards and access competitions, videos and games.

The Challenge is proven to significantly improve children’s reading confidence, making sure they are ready for their return to school in the autumn. It also gives families the chance to access books and fun family activities throughout the summer – all for free.

‘Friendly and caring’ Pembrokeshire school priased

ST AIDAN’S Church in Wales VA School in Wiston, located near Haverfordwest, has received commendation as a “friendly and caring school” that fosters an environment conducive to pupils’ educational growth. In March, Estyn inspectors visited the primary school, observing its commitment to inclusivity and the overall well-being of its pupils.

According to the inspectors’ report, St Aidan’s Church in Wales VA School is a friendly and caring school that successfully promotes an inclusive ethos. The school has cultivated a positive atmosphere for learning, where pupils thrive and display enthusiasm during lessons and tasks. This achievement is attributed to the strong rapport established between pupils and teachers, as well as other staff members. This positive relationship fosters effective learning,

enhances pupils’ wellbeing, and facilitates good progress in their education. Consequently, pupils develop appropriate extended writing skills, and their speaking, listening, reading, numeracy, and digital skills are good.

The report acknowledges the positive impact of

consistent teaching methods, which stimulate pupils’ learning, as well as purposeful feedback that challenges them to improve their work. However, the report also highlights that inconsistencies in teaching and feedback hinder effective work improvement.

Inspectors noted the

school staff’s positive attitudes towards pupils, diligent support, and caring approach, which encourage pupils’ eagerness to learn and resilience in persevering with tasks. Additionally, staff effectively encourage pupils to take responsibility for their own well-being and behaviour. The

report recognizes that the emotional support provided by staff for both pupils and their families is a strength of the school.

Furthermore, inspectors highlighted how staff and volunteers use the nearby woodland to engage pupils in outdoor learning. However, the report recommended that indoor learning opportunities for younger pupils be resourced equitably across all classes.

The report commends the school’s leadership for sensibly evaluating its work and planning for improvements. The headteacher provides effective and committed leadership, focusing on developing strengths within the school community for the benefit of pupils and their families. The senior leadership team, staff, and governors share this caring vision and work together to ensure that the school

is inclusive and promotes positive learning and wellbeing opportunities. The headteacher effectively uses self-evaluation processes to identify targets that will improve the school’s practices.

The report also recognizes the successful focus on staff training and development, including collaboration with local schools. This contributes to a positive whole-school ethos, where staff feel valued for their impact on pupils’ outcomes and their overall contributions to school life.

Estyn recommended that the school provides better opportunities for pupils to improve the quality of their extended writing and ensures that teaching is effective and consistent across the school. Inspectors also recommended that teachers’ feedback targets the next steps in pupils’ learning effectively.

SaVing THe enVironMenT, one waTT aT a TiMe

IN recent years, the world has seen a dramatic shift towards sustainable energy sources as we grapple with the impacts of climate change.

The use of fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, has led to devastating consequences for the environment, such as rising sea levels, more frequent natural disasters, and widespread habitat destruction. However, with the emergence of green energy, there is hope that we can mitigate these impacts and create a better future for ourselves and the planet.

Green energy is derived from natural sources that are replenished over time, such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy. Unlike fossil fuels, these sources emit little to no greenhouse gases and have minimal environmental impact. Additionally, green energy is renewable and sustainable, meaning that it can be used indefinitely without depleting natural resources.

One of the most popular forms of green energy is solar power. Solar panels capture energy from the sun and convert it into

electricity. This energy can be used to power homes, businesses, and even entire cities. Solar energy has become increasingly affordable and efficient in recent years, making it a viable option for many people.

Another form of green energy is wind power. Wind turbines harness the power of the wind and convert it into electricity. Like solar energy, wind energy is becoming more affordable and accessible as technology advances.

Hydroelectric power is another form of green energy that has been in use for centuries. Hydroelectric power plants use the energy of falling water to generate electricity. This form of energy is particularly useful in areas with large bodies of water, such as rivers and oceans.

Geothermal energy uses the natural heat of the earth to generate electricity. This energy is harnessed through geothermal power plants, which tap into natural geothermal reservoirs to produce electricity. While geothermal energy is not as widely used as solar or wind energy, it has great potential for the future.

Finally, biomass energy uses organic matter, such as wood, crops, and waste, to generate electricity. This form of energy has the potential to reduce waste and create energy from materials that would otherwise go unused. Green energy is not just good for the environment; it also has many other benefits. For example, green energy can help to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, which are a finite resource that is becoming increasingly expensive and difficult to extract. Additionally, green energy can create jobs in a variety of fields, such as manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.

In conclusion, green energy is a crucial part of our efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment. With its many benefits and the increasing affordability and accessibility of renewable energy sources, there has never been a better time to make the switch to green energy. Whether you choose solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, or biomass energy, you can make a difference in creating a sustainable future for us all.

elec Tric carS are THe preSenT, noT THe FuTure

ELECTRIC cars are not just the future, they are the present. They are the future of transportation and it’s no secret that they will continue to be important for years to come.

Not only do electric cars offer a more sustainable and eco-friendly mode of transportation, but they also come with numerous benefits for the consumers. One of the main reasons why electric cars will be so important in the future is that they will help to reduce the carbon footprint. Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the world, and transportation is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. With electric cars, we can drastically reduce the amount of CO2 emissions by replacing traditional gasoline-powered cars.

As the world continues to transition towards renewable energy sources, electric cars will play an even more crucial role in mitigating climate change.

Moreover, electric cars can also help us to become more energy independent. With the rise of renewable energy, we can power our cars using solar, wind, and other forms of clean energy sources. This means that we won’t have to rely on foreign countries for our energy needs. It’s also worth noting that electric cars are incredibly efficient compared to traditional gasolinepowered cars. They are more efficient in converting stored energy into motion, which means they can travel farther on the same amount of energy. This translates to lower maintenance costs, fewer trips to the gas station, and a smoother driving

experience.

Another reason why electric cars will be so important in the future is that they can help to reduce noise pollution. Electric cars are quiet and don’t produce as much noise as traditional vehicles. This means that they can make our cities and towns quieter and more peaceful places to live. Imagine walking on the street without the constant hum of car engines in the background.

In addition to being environmentally friendly and quiet, electric cars also offer numerous benefits to the consumer. With advances in battery technology, electric cars can now travel farther than ever before on a single charge. This means that range anxiety is no longer a significant concern. Furthermore, charging times have significantly decreased,

and there are now a growing number of public charging stations available. As the market for electric cars continues to grow, prices will also become more affordable, making them a more accessible option for consumers.

In conclusion, electric cars are the future of transportation, and they will continue to be important for years to come. They are not just eco-friendly but also offer numerous benefits to the consumer, such as reduced maintenance costs,

a quieter driving experience, and increased energy independence. As the world moves towards renewable energy, electric cars will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions, and they will help to create a cleaner, more sustainable future.

waleS’ FloaTing wind proJec T SecureS Marine licenSe

BLUE GEM WIND, the joint venture between TotalEnergies, one of the world’s largest energy companies, and Simply Blue Group, has secured a marine licence for the 100MW Erebus project.

Working with OWC, MarineSpace, ITPEnergised and Burges Salmon, and following a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment process, Blue Gem Wind was granted a marine licence for the Erebus project on February 17 th .

Erebus, Wales’ first planned floating windfarm is located approx 40km off the Pembrokeshire coastline and will house seven next generation 14MW turbines on WindFloat® floating platforms, providing enough low carbon energy to power 93,000 homes, contributing to net zero targets and energy security.

Mike Scott, Project Managing Director at Blue Gem Wind, said: “We

welcome the decision from Natural Resources Wales to grant the marine licence for Erebus. The project, which will be the first floating wind farm in Wales, will play a crucial role in advancing the deployment of what will become a globally important low carbon technology.”

Sean Evans, Consenting Manager, Blue Gem Wind, added: “We have been working with Natural Resources Wales and other key stakeholders since 2019 to develop a test & demonstration scale project that balances the need for low carbon energy with that of the natural environment, and minimises impacts to local communities and stakeholders. We are delighted to have achieved this milestone for the project.”

David TC Davies, Secretary of State for Wales, said: “Wales has the potential to be a world leader in offshore wind energy, and

floating technology is key to unlocking the full potential of our coastlines as it generates economic growth and highly-skilled jobs. The UK Government is investing in this sector which will help us achieve our net zero ambitions as well as playing an important role in providing secure sources of energy. This latest milestone for Blue Gem is a positive step forward for this expanding sector in Wales.”

Erebus, named after the famous ship built in 1826 in Pembroke Dock is due to be commissioned in 2026 and marks the start of Blue Gem Wind’s stepping stone approach to floating wind development in the Celtic Sea.

The Celtic Sea and floating wind is poised to play a key role in net zero, the Climate Change Committee 100GW+ offshore wind target, and help deliver the UK Energy Security Strategy.

diScuSSion To FocuS on SKillS For waleS’ green reVoluTion

A ROUND table discussion at the Swansea University Bay Campus on February 17th will begin a major examination of how best to maximise the skills and training needed for the fast expanding green

economy in South West Wales.

The UK Government’s vision of 24GW of huge floating offshore wind turbines powering Britain in the Celtic Sea by 2045 offers a once in a generation opportunity to

establish a new green industry in South Wales. It’s a key plank in delivering the Welsh Government’s aim for Wales to meet 100% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2035.

For floating offshore

wind (FLOW) alone, there is the opportunity for Wales to capture as much as possible of the economic benefits coming from manufacturing, maintenance and operations - estimated at £54 billion - with the creation of thousands of new jobs, something the Celtic Freeport bid hopes to realise if successful.

Wind power is stronger at sea than on land but it was only recently turbines could be installed in very deep or complex seabed locations with the advent of new, floating structures anchored to the seabed by vast flexible anchors, chains or steel cables.

In addition, other renewable energy and alternative fuel technologies like hydrogen production will support improved security of energy supply, ensuring Wales and the UK meet net zero targets, as well as creating transformational numbers of high-quality, long-term jobs for future generations in South West Wales and wider.

A successful Celtic Freeport bid would also see two expanded green energy ports (Port Talbot and Milford Haven) and up to £1.4bn in port infrastructure and

factories to secure ‘first mover’ advantage in the global FLOW market .

The scale of the turbines needed to populate the Celtic Sea floating wind farm is colossal - imagine a structure nearly twice as tall as Wales’ tallest building, the Tower at Meridian Quay in Swansea, with three 155 metre long blades, leaving Port Talbot and Pembroke Port each at every week throughout the next decade!

Also there would be up to £0.5 billion of investment in improvements, green skills and innovation programmes, as key drivers of local economic growth and regeneration.

Topics under discussion at the Skills Round Table at the Bay Campus on February 17th will include: The steps we can take to ensure South West Wales maximises its skills and training base.

How current skills challenges facing the renewable energy industry can be addressed in the short to medium term, including the development of targeted skills initiatives.

The steps that need to be taken to bridge longer-term technical skills and training

gaps in South West Wales. The Chief Executive of Neath Port Talbot Council, Karen Jones, who will be welcoming delegates to the Skills Round Table event said: “To ensure South West Wales capitalises on these new green industries, it’s essential to equip our young people with the necessary skills and training.

“We also need to attract more skilled people at all levels into the renewable energy sector. This will take a collaborative effort by Welsh Government, Local Authorities, education providers, windfarm developers, port authorities and other participants in the supply chain.

“There is already a huge willingness to work together for the joint benefit of South West Wales and beyond. The opportunity of this discussion would be to cement this cooperative spirit and kick off further definite strands of work.”

MPs, Senedd Members, Directors of Education, HE and FE representatives and skills and training professionals are among those invited to the Bay Campus discussion.

MilFord HaVen waTerwaY FuTure energY cluSTer

THE MILFORD HAVEN

WATERWAY Future Energy Cluster has recently mapped out a pathway to a low carbon future.

The Cluster consists of a coalition of energy companies, renewable developers, green technology innovators, Pembrokeshire County Council and the Port of Milford Haven.

It is aiming to deliver at least 20% of the UK’s low carbon hydrogen production target and 10% of the Celtic Sea Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) target by 2030.

The Cluster’s whole energy cycle solution has a pivotal role to play in supporting an accelerated transition to Net Zero, whilst stimulating substantial economic growth and creating well-paid, green jobs in Pembrokeshire and across Wales.

Adapting to deliver the UK’s energy needs is part of the Waterway’s DNA. Its location, near Atlantic trade

routes, coupled with it being one of the deepest natural harbours in the world, has long made it a key strategic location for the import and export of fuel. For sixty five years, the Milford Haven Waterway has been a critical national energy asset, attracting billions of pounds of investment over that time. Today, it supplies around a fifth of the UK’s annual energy demand. Its existing assets, skills, rail connectivity, transmission and pipelines provide a unique opportunity to deliver a future focused on hydrogen, floating offshore wind (FLOW), marine renewables, sustainable fuels CO2 shipping, and energy storage.

By the 2040’s the Milford Haven Waterway aims to be a significant exporter of low carbon electricity and hydrogen, and a globally recognised example of a low carbon, smart energy system fully capable of supporting society’s energy needs

reliably, cost effectively and with significantly reduced emissions.

Playing its vital role in the transformation of the energy industry, with its consequent

investment in green jobs, will help Wales reach net zero.

The Milford Haven Waterway will help deliver the just transition that the Welsh Government and politicians

across the spectrum wish to see. Members of the Milford Haven Waterway Future Energy Cluster are investing in green technology and skills so that people living

and working in our local communities today, as well as future generations, can benefit from this new industry.

celTic FreeporT

A Celtic Freeport is a key enabler to achieve a just transition in south west Wales. It will ensure that Wales maximises the economic opportunity from the development of floating offshore wind and other industries. Celtic Freeport is an exciting project that will accelerate innovation and encourage significant investment, while fasttracking modern skills for new green industries and national decarbonisation.

The Celtic Freeport bid was lodged on behalf of a public-private consortium whose partners include Associated British Ports (ABP), Neath Port Talbot Council, Pembrokeshire County Council and the Port of Milford Haven.

Members of the Milford Haven Waterway Future Energy Cluster officially launched their vision at an event at the Senedd co-hosted by Samuel Kurtz MS, Cefin Campbell MS, Jane Dodds MS, Joyce Watson MS

A WELL established Narberth business is leading the pack within the local community about living and shopping more sustainable.

The Happy Planet Green Store, situated at Chestnut Chambers, Narberth, was established almost five years ago by Couple Tania and Jerry who moved to Wales around nine years ago.

Sustainable living has always been a goal for the couple, but the idea to open the store came after they experienced difficulties in purchasing food staples which were packed without plastic.

Speaking on the venture, Tania said the idea came after visiting the local beaches and seeing the amount of plastic and rubbish which were left strewn across the county’s beaches which were brought up by storms churning the pollution out of the sea.

This prompted the couple to really look at their waste consumption and make some

How localS are TaKing

acTion

environmentally friendly choices, especially on plastic usage

After experiencing some difficulties sourcing those types products locally, Tania and Jerry decided to source the products themselves and opened up a store, something that was very much welcomed by like-minded individuals

The uptake in the community was huge, which led to the extension of another shop in Cardigan.

Tania said: “We are so grateful and thankful that people are thinking about other ways to shop to help the environment.

This way of shopping makes it easier for people to shop like this and make changes, you can come in and get enough to make a meal,a teaspoon of a particular spice you need without having any waste or doing a week’s shop.”

To keep the stores fully stocked, a lot of the products come from Tania and Jerry’s land through their one planet

development.

But to create a larger supply and a variety of produce, they have a good working relationship with other one planet developments, local dairies, bakers and coffee roasters. This way all of their produce is as locally sourced as possible.

You can bring your own clean containers to fill from a wide choice of foods for your larders, including rice, pasta, beans, dried fruit, nutWs, snacks, tea and coffee beans, (which they can grind for you) and herbs and spices. They have a great selection of breakfast cereals and you can even make up your own muesli mix!

There are bamboo coffee cups, steel water bottles, palm leaf picnic plates and wooden cutlery, which can all be packed into a jute bag for your picnic, festival, or beach day along with loose snacks to choose from and even a spud coat! A Raincoat made from potatoes??...I know we didn’t believe it either!!

PEMBROKESHIRE, is home to many individuals and organizations dedicated to protecting and preserving the environment.

Here are a few examples of great things that Pembrokeshire people are doing to help save the environment:

Sustainable tourism: We all know Pembrokeshire is a popular tourist destination, and many local businesses are committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices. For example, many accommodations have implemented green initiatives such as using renewable energy, reducing waste, and promoting local and organic food.

wildlife conservation: Pembrokeshire is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including many rare and endangered species. Many conservation organizations, such as the Welsh Wildlife

Centre and the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, are working to protect and restore local habitats and wildlife populations.

community-led conservation: Many community groups in Pembrokeshire are actively engaged in conservation work, such as beach cleans, wildlife surveys, and habitat restoration. For example, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority has a “Volunteer Rangers” program that encourages people to get involved in conservation work, and there are also communityled projects like “Friends of the Cleddau” who work to protect and restore the local river.

plastic reduction: Plastic pollution is a significant environmental issue, and many people in Pembrokeshire are working to reduce plastic use and promote recycling. For example, the “Refill

Pembrokeshire” initiative encourages businesses to offer free water refills to help reduce the use of single-use plastic water bottles.

renewable energy: Pembrokeshire has significant potential for renewable energy generation, and many individuals and organizations are working to harness this potential. For example, the Pembrokeshire Renewable Energy Network is a group of local businesses and individuals who are promoting renewable energy development in the area.

These are just a few examples of the great things that people in Pembrokeshire are doing to help save the environment. There are many more individuals and organizations working towards a more sustainable and environmentallyfriendly future in the region.

Six beautiful Summer walks

Strumble Head Lighthouse seems to rise straight from the sea, as you drive the narrow lane to the car park. In reality, it sits on a rocky islet, separated from the mainland by a narrow stretch of water. It’s a glorious starting point for a hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

The path is edged with flowers such as thrift, pink campion and bluebells, and the sky is filled with seabirds. Take time to visit the observation post before striding out east: there’s a good chance of seeing harbour porpoises, bottlenosed dolphins and grey seals.

From the memorial stone to the French invasion turn inland, following the path signed for Llanwnda Church. Continue to Trenewydd, then follow country lanes back to the lighthouse.

Keep in mind: this is a surprisingly strenuous six mile walk. Expect rough clifftop paths that rise and fall with each new headland.

Porthgain is a picturesque fishing village with a gritty industrial past - as the ruins of the eerie brick hoppers above the harbour testify. Follow the Pembrokeshire Coast Path west, and discover remains of the old granite quarrying industry, still evident in the old railway track and ruined buildings.

The path continues up and round dizzying headlands, waves crashing on the rocks far below. Take time to climb down the metal stairway to the sandy cove at Traeth Llyfn before continuing on to the Blue Lagoon. Enclosed by land but for a narrow sea channel, the drowned slate quarry is a pool of intense aqua green and a playground for coast steerers, swimmers, divers and general daredevils.

Just before the car park at Abereiddy Beach, take the gorselined path inland and over fields to Porthgain. At the end of the four mile hike, enjoy a crab sandwich and a pint at the Sloop Inn or a hearty meal at the Shed Bistro.

Solva is a charmingly pretty estuary village, so take time to explore the bright shopping street and harbour, before heading up the headland.

Cross the footbridge by the car park at the foot of the harbour and climb the Gribin to the Iron Age fort at the top with fine views over the sea.

Follow the hillside path down to the Gwadn, a small pebble beach. From here, take the path leading inland behind the beach, crossing a stream over stepping stones to climb the ridge and tumble down through woodland to Solva again. Relax on the balcony of the Cafe on the Quay at the end of the leisurely one mile stroll.

1. StrumbleHead

2. porthgain to the blue lagoon

4. Solva and the gribin Headland

St David’s Peninsula is a place of pilgrimage, raw nature and wild seas. Leaving Wales’ smallest city behind, head down Goat Street, continuing down a minor road to St Non’s Bay.

Follow a pathway to the remains of St Non’s Chapel and Holy Well and turn west to loop round the tranquil creek at Porth Clais and on to Pen Dal-aderyn. Marvel at the tidal streams that race through Ramsey Point, reaching speeds of seven knots.

Pass the ruined Treginnis Copper Mine, where St Justinian crossed from Ramsey Island with his head tucked under his arm, as legend goes. Keep your eyes glued for dolphins, seals and porpoises in the expanse of blue. Finish at Whitesands, where it’s believed St Patrick sailed for Ireland.

After the challenging nine mile hike, take the shuttle bus back to St David’s. Explore the ruined Bishop’s Palace and the imposing cathedral before reenergising with a filling oggie, the Welsh ver sion of a Cornish Pasty.

The starting point at Stack Rocks car park heralds a dramatic walk along the Pembrokeshire coast. This is an area of rugged sea stacks, a natural arch - the Green Bridge - forts and caves.

The limestone pillars are crammed with seabirds: guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars and razorbills. From here the coastal path cuts across the Castlemartin Ministry of Defence firing range. Check it’s open before striding out to St Govan.

Steep steps lead down to a medieval chapel that’s built into the rockface. Dedicated to St Govan, legend says he came here to escape pirates, the cliff miraculously opening up a cleft to conceal him.

This is a magical place, legends aside, where waves lap in a rocky cove at the base of sheer cliffs. Retrace your steps to return to your starting point on this six mile walk.

Winding through the Stackpole Estate, now owned by the National Trust, this six mile ramble has a gentler feel to it, but is just as beautiful as the wilder Pembrokeshire coastline.

It takes you through varied landscapes filled with interest. Start at Bosherston and follow the northern bank of the Western Arm of the lily ponds - a Monetesque scene in summer. Cross the bridge over the Central Arm to reach the Eastern Arm with its handsome Eight Arch Bridge.

From here, traverse the Deer Park to Stackpole Quay, where you can stop for refreshments before following the coast to Barafundle Bay. Head through the man-made arch, framing one of Wales’ most beautiful beaches, then carry on to Broadhaven South.

Another golden strand, the striking sea stack of Church Rock stands sentry at the entrance of the deep-cut bay. Linger for a while before returning to Bosherston along the south bank of the Western Arm.

3. St david’s peninsula

4. Stack rocks to St govan

5. Stackpole: lily ponds and golden beaches

‘The best Carnival in many years!’

THE VIBRANT Milford

Haven Carnival of 2023 proved to be a tremendous success, drawing in large crowds of enthusiastic attendees.

Organised by the Milford Haven Round Table, the carnival commenced at Waterloo Square and traversed through Hakin Bridge, Hamilton Terrace, and Charles Street before concluding at Milford Waterfront.

Leading the spirited parade was Bleddyn Gibbs, an accomplished 18-yearold powerlifter who recently secured four gold medals at the Special Olympics Summer Games in Berlin.

Alongside the captivating procession, attendees were treated to a lively stage hosting live music courtesy of Pure West Radio, captivating circus performers, an exhilarating fun fair, entertaining acts such as Mr. Toad’s Roaming Cabaret and Valerian the Animatronic Dragon,

delectable street food options, charity stalls, and an engaging Scarlets Rugby roadshow.

Expressing their gratitude, a spokesperson for the Milford Haven Round Table extended thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the Milford Haven Carnival. They acknowledged the participation of parade entrants, the attendance of spectators, the event’s sponsors, and the generous donations collected throughout the festivities. All proceeds will be reinvested back into the town, further enhancing its vibrancy.

The carnival also included several competitions, with winners announced in various categories. The prestigious title of Overall Winner was claimed by Wellington Road, while PYC and FF Dancers secured second and third places respectively. Other notable winners included FF Dancers (Matilda) in the

Class A Business category, Church of Living Hope (Gods Creation) in Class B Private, Pembrokeshire Yacht Club (Avatar) in Class C Pub or Club, and Wellington Road (Greatest Showman) in Class D Street. Additional awards recognized the Boulevard Theatre (Streets of London) for Best Theme, Milford Youth Matters (Beach Party) for Most Colourful entry, and Milford Rugby Club’s Mini Mariners for exhibiting the Best Carnival Spirit.

The Milford Haven Carnival of 2023 brought together a stunning array of colourful costumes, captivating acrobatic displays, the inspiring presence of Bleddyn Gibbs showcasing his remarkable gold medals, entertaining memes, and beautifully decorated floats.

The 2023 Milford Haven Carnival was an exuberant and highly successful event, exemplifying the spirit and community of the town.

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels

photos by loJack images

Friday July 7th 2023

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels

photos by loJack images

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels Friday July 7th

photos by digital dan

600 athletes push themselves to the limit

THE LONG COURSE

WEEKEND in Tenby concluded with a jubilant atmosphere on Sunday as the overall winners of the grueling three-day multisport event were crowned. Wales and GB triathlete Liam Lloyd emerged victorious, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination by completing the three disciplines in an impressive total time of 8 hours, 24 minutes, and 41 seconds.

Lloyd’s remarkable performance secured him the coveted top spot on the podium, leaving his competitors trailing in his wake. Last year’s overall winner and fellow GB triathlete, Donald Brooks of the Torq Triathlon Club, finished just under 14 minutes behind in second place. Oliver Whitby rounded out the podium with a commendable third-place finish.

In the women’s event, Natalie Lawrence from Total Tri Training, Dorset, demonstrated her exceptional prowess, clinching victory with a total time of 10 hours, 26 minutes, and 26 seconds. Lawrence’s remarkable achievement earned her the eighth place overall. Anna Lawson secured the second spot with a time of 10 hours, 40 minutes, and 8 seconds, closely followed by Emily

minutes, and 47 seconds. Both Lawson and Marchant also posted impressive top 20 times.

Over 600 athletes eagerly took on the Ironmandistance swim, bike, and run courses durin g the Long Course Weekend. However, less than half managed to complete all three disciplines, earning themselves the coveted fourth piece of the Long Course Weekend medal jigsaw.

Among the competitors was hometown hero Finn Arentz, a Tenby triathlete who displayed exceptional potential. Arentz was fiercely contending for a podium place until a calf injury cruelly dashed his hopes during the marathon segment of the event.

In addition to the main race, the Long Course Weekend featured other thrilling events that captivated spectators and showcased the participants’ skill and determination. Luke Gething emerged as the victor in the Long Course Weekend half distance, completing the course in an impressive time of 5 hours, 11 minutes, and 2 seconds. Meanwhile, young Jaden Morgan claimed the Junior Long Course Winner title, leaving his mark on the competition. Pembrokeshire Triathlon’s own Harry Griffiths also made his presence known, delivering

Long Course Weekend spilled onto the streets of Tenby as thousands of athletes flooded the town to tackle the event’s swimming, cycling, and running courses. The weekend commenced with the LCWKinder surf run and run on Tenby’s North Beach, where young athletes showcased their skills and enthusiasm. This was followed by the 2.4-mile Wales Swim and the 1.2mile swim from the beach.

In an unprecedented move, the start and finish for the main cycling and running events were relocated from Tenby’s town centre to the Salterns car park, avoiding disruptions in Tudor Square. The decision was the result of discussions earlier this year between Long Course Weekend organizers, Activity Wales Events, Pembrokeshire County Council, and local representatives.

Cyclists faced the formidable challenge of Saundersfoot’s notorious ‘Heartbreak Hill’ as they pushed their limits along the course. Lloyd, representing Tri Potential, showcased his remarkable cycling abilities and was the first to cross the finish line in the 112-mile sportive, with Arentz hot on his heels, just two minutes behind. Ian Davies claimed victory in the 70-mile sportive, while Sarah Davies of Ammanford Triathlon and Cycling Club triumphed in

the 40-mile event.

Sunday saw the eagerly anticipated Wales Marathon commence from the Salterns at 10 a.m., followed by the Wales 5k runners at 10:30 a.m. The half-marathon began from Pembroke’s Main Street at noon, and the 10k race kicked off at Manorbier Castle at 1:30 p.m. Lloyd continued his dominance, winning the marathon with an impressive time of 2 hours, 40 minutes, and 21 seconds, with Brooks hot on his heels, finishing just a minute behind at 2 hours, 41 minutes, and 20 seconds.

The half marathon saw Ollie George of Pembrokeshire Harriers emerge victorious with an impressive time of 1 hour, 15 minutes, and 37 seconds. Joshua Morgan from Swansea Harriers claimed victory in the 10k race, crossing the finish line in 36 minutes and 21 seconds. Meanwhile, Martha Collings of Woking AC led the field in the 5k race, setting an impressive time of 17 minutes and 38 seconds.

The Long Course Weekend in Tenby was a thrilling showcase of athletic prowess, determination, and community spirit. As the dust settles on this year’s event, athletes and spectators eagerly anticipate the challenges and triumphs that await them in the next edition.

Milford resident raises £2000

MILFORD resident Kelly Howes, an employee at Value Independence CiC, recently undertook an extraordinary challenge by participating in the Tenby’s Long Course swim on June 30th. This endeavor showcased not only her determination to push her physical limits in a demanding open water event but also her commitment to raising funds for the Well Being Walking Group, a local initiative focused on promoting community health and well-being.

Having nurtured a passion for sporting events and possessing strong swimming abilities, Howes had been preparing for this challenge for the past two years. Her rigorous training routine involved regular workouts, maintaining a healthy diet, and consistent swimming sessions. To further enhance her skills and endurance, she joined the Puffins Disability Swimming Squad in Haverfordwest and the Pembrokeshire Blue Tits swimming group.

With great enthusiasm, Howes expressed her motivation for participating in the challenging swim and her desire to support the Well Being Walking Group. She emphasized, “I’ve always been a fan of sporting events, and the Long Course swim seemed like the perfect challenge for me. The fact that I can also support the Well Being Walking Group through this fundraiser is incredibly rewarding. Their work in promoting community health aligns with my own values, and I hope to contribute to their cause.”

To support Howes in her fundraising efforts, individuals were encouraged to donate to her GoFundMe campaign, which will remain active for an additional two weeks. Every contribution received would directly contribute towards providing essential equipment for the Well Being Walking Group, aiding their efforts in promoting community health.

Following the swim, Howes shared her experience with the Herald, expressing her initial nervousness and the overwhelming support she received from her close family, friends, and colleagues on the beach. Despite feeling tired during the swim, she was driven to persevere, mindful of not letting down her sponsors and supporters who had helped her raise money.

Emerging from the water with a sense of relief and accomplishment, Howes successfully achieved her goal. Her official time for the swim was recorded as 38 minutes on the chip and 43 minutes crossing the finish line.

When asked if she would participate again, Howes enthusiastically confirmed that she had already signed up for next year’s event. She noted that the biggest

challenge she faced was adapting her training and swimming strokes to the unpredictable sea conditions, as open water swimming differs significantly from the controlled environment of a pool.

Howes expressed deep gratitude to her bosses at Value Independence CiC, Jo and Sam, for their unwavering support. She also extended her appreciation to the Bluetits group and specifically thanked Makala Jones, her coach, and her swimming buddy, Rachel, for their invaluable assistance throughout her journey.

Regarding the fundraising total, Howes revealed that £2000 had been raised thus far, and her JustGiving page would remain active for an additional two weeks, allowing more time for donations to contribute to the Well Being Walking Group’s cause.

Hide & SeeK on THe Hidden waTerwaY

Think of the water in Pembrokeshire and you’ll most likely conjure up visions of ebbing tides and sandy shores, but there’s a whole undiscovered world waiting to be explored further inland at the secret waterway.

Hidden away in the centre of Pembrokeshire county, the Daugleddau Estuary, also referred to as the Cleddau Estuary, snakes through rural countryside and almost time-forgotten neighbourhoods. Once a hive of activity during the coal mining era and the height of the fishing industry, this channel is now a a scene of serenity and remains an unexplored location for many.

Known affectionately as the hidden or secret waterway, this body of aquatic habitats is a  lesser-known part of this wild Welsh county. Wildlife enthusiasts, artists and photographers will revel in exploring this tranquil part of the world, with its scenic waterside villages, ageold fishing spots and picturesque hamlets

overlooking the river. The vista here is so idyllic, it almost feels like it has been lifted from a writer’s imagination. It will inevitably spark inspiration in the creatives who pass through.

The  Daugleddau Estuary as it is known, is home to various river birds and fish including mallards, shelducks, trout and salmon. To get closes to the action, take a  paddle and canoe or kayak your way through the waters, stopping off for bird sightings and photo opportunities. The banks of the water are formed by a mixture of muddy borders, grassy embankments, farmland and riverside cottages, so whether your attention is focussed inland or on the water, you’re sure to see some spectacular sights.

Stemming at Milford Haven, the mouth of the Irish Sea, this estuary consists of four rivers and reaches as far inland as Haverfordwest via the western river, and Canaston Bridge via the eastern river. Together the two are known as

the Daugleddau Estuary and it has two smaller streams which split off on tangents stretching out to Carew and Cresswell Quay.

Journeying along the waterway, you will travel through Pembroke Dock to marvel at the port which once upon a time produced some 250 ships for industry and war, before reaching the pretty marina lights in Neyland. Continuing further inland takes you through the sleepy villages of Lawrenny, Llangwm and Landshipping - a stretch of the river which was once bustling with local fishermen chasing after a good haul for their wives to sell back on land.

Whilst the estuary technically begins at Milford (as this is where the seawater merges with river water), you can easily continue your water-based journey out towards the Irish Sea to explore the splendid coastal locations of Herbandston and Sandy Haven.

Street Food Festival returns to Milford

MILFORD

HAVEN STREET FOOD FESTIVAL

is returning to Milford Waterfront, this August, for three days full of food, drinks and live entertainment! Entry to the festival is FREE and no tickets are required; just rock up with a big appetite!

This year there will be over 15 traders from across Wales and the UK, with each trader serving a different cuisine so you’ll have so much to choose from. There will be traders serving Seafood, BBQ,

Afghan and Italian to Uzbek, Mexican, Indian and Burgers!

This year the festival is hosting free live entertainment with DJs and acts performing from 12pm - 8pm daily, courtesy of Fourpure Brewing Co. You’ll be able to boogie whilst munching on some delicious street food and sipping refreshing drinks!

There will be seating available at the festival, but you can reserve a table of up to 6, at busy times, to make sure that you get a spot. There’s also room to bring

your own camp chairs for a little picnic too!

The festival has started to announce some of the amazing street food traders which will be heading to Milford Haven Street Food Festival this year. First up is ‘Amore Spice’ who will be bringing the flavours of India. They will be serving up insane curries and top tier onion bhajis which are always a hit! Next, we have ‘Two Lads Kitchen’ who bring authentic and unique flavours into their highly popular Afghan street

food. Their 24 hour marinated chicken in their ‘Special Green Sauce’ is a must! Of course, there will be something to satisfy your sweet tooth, so ‘Chock Shop’ will be serving their heavenly brownies, plus, Romy’s will be providing the filled crepe goodness!

Keep an eye out on the festival’s social media pages for more announcements and updates on the amazing traders, as well as competitions to win loads of FREE FOOD @milfordhaven streetfoodfest

This year, as the site is open there will be NO ticket requirements to enter. You can simply walk in and enjoy the festival on the day. However, add-ons, such as table reservations will still be offered so you can secure yourself a reserved spot to enjoy your food. For more festival info and add-ons, visit the their website https:// streetfoodwarehouse.co.uk/ milford-haven/ Street Food Warehouse have searched far and wide to bring the residents of Milford

Haven the best street food to feast on. Whether you like to stick to what you know or you’re a foodie fanatic, they’ve got something for everyone! They can’t guarantee the weather... because this is Britain! But what they can guarantee is a free and familyfriendly event where you can get your hands on some of the most vibrant and high quality street food. It’s going to be a delicious weekend! So head on down to Milford Haven Street Food Festival 2023 #summerofstreetfood2023

Dates and Opening Times:

Friday 4th - Sunday 6th August 2023 11am - 10:30pm daily

Location:

Milford Waterfront, Mackerel Quay, Milford Haven, SA73 3AF

Tickets:

General entry tickets are free, but are not required for entry to the event as the site is open.

https://streetfoodwarehouse.co.uk/milford-haven/

Pembroke’s River Rally: Flotilla honours town’s maritime heritage

PEMBROKE witnessed a vibrant spectacle as a colourful flotilla adorned the waters for the annual River Rally. The event, which has been a cherished tradition for almost three decades, was organized by the esteemed West Wales Maritime Heritage Society, except for a pandemicinduced hiatus.

With deep-rooted ties to the maritime history of the ancient port of Pembroke, the rally serves as a testament to the enduring rights of navigation for sailors on the Pembroke River and those seeking entry into the Castle Pond.

On Saturday, July 1, despite the blustery conditions, the River Rally commenced with the civic party embarking on the flagship vessel Hey Jude from Neyland Marina.

Basking in the sun, the flotilla was escorted by a boat from the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society, while the vigilant Milford Haven Port Authority water ranger kept a watchful eye over the proceedings.

Among the distinguished guests on board Hey Jude were Pembroke’s mayor and mayoress, Cllr Aden Brinn and Claire Dufresnoy, accompanied by Pembroke Dock’s mayor, Cllr George Manning, and the deputy mayor, Cllr Maria Williams.

During the voyage, Cllr Brinn delivered a proclamation that illuminated the port’s rich history, tracing back centuries when it served as a bustling hub for the import and export of various cargoes. The Custom House, which still stands adjacent to the Corn Store, collected dues for these valuable shipments.

Cllr Brinn further remarked, “Subsequently, these cargoes were transported to Haverfordwest. However, even after Haverfordwest ceased trading, ships continued to dock at Pembroke. Renowned vessels like the Kathleen and May, Garlandstone, and Irene persevered in trade until 1960, unloading their precious cargo at what is now the Corn Store.”

“When trade eventually ceased, pleasure sailors sought solace in the town. Yet, their journey was marred by the construction of a flood prevention barrage across the river, impeding their right to navigate the Pembroke River,” he continued.

“As a result, the mayor of Pembroke entrusted the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society with the task of organizing the

inaugural Pembroke River Rally in 1995.”

To complement the nautical festivities, the Pembroke Town Council arranged a delightful array of entertainment on the quayside. Neil Thomas, a talented compere, regaled the audience with songs, adding a cheerful touch to the afternoon. Local craft stalls and charity organizations, including the RNLI, Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Lions, and Pembroke Town Teams, were also present, showcasing their valuable contributions to the community.

As the flotilla gracefully sailed into the Castle Pond, the town rejoiced in preserving its maritime legacy and paying tribute to the seafaring heritage that has shaped Pembroke’s identity throughout the ages.

What’s On Now

An opportunity to see the exciting seascapes of Lesley Dearn alongside the spectacular ships of Bill Grimson and the breathtaking landscapes of David Bellamy together with other 2 and 3-dimensional pieces of work created by our other amazing Waterfront artists.

Between Saturday 8th July -Saturday 29th July

The Royal Watercolour Society of Wales will be exhibiting at the gallery between Saturday 5th August and Friday 15th September

The Wales Contemporary International Fine Art Exhibition opens at the Waterfront Gallery on Saturday 21st October – not to be missed.

Artist opportunities

● Open call for works in 2D or 3D by artists based in the UK or internationally.

● Deadline for entry: Monday 21 August 2023, 5PM.

● Link to enter: https://new.artopps.co.uk/opportunities/WalesContemporary

● Prize fund worth £12,000, including a top prize of £3,000.

The Old Sail Loft, The Docks, Milford Haven SA73 1BZ

Don’t miss Bob Reeves’ 12th Solo Exhibition titled ‘Hiraeth’

FRIDAY’S TV 7.7.23

CHOICE

BBC1 BBC2 ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL

6.00 Breakfast. 9.15 Morning Live. 10.00 Close Calls: On Camera. 10.30 Animal Park. 11.15 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 12.15 Bargain Hunt. 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the fifth day from the All England Club.

6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

7.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the fifth day from the All England Club, featuring third-round matches in the men’s and ladies’ singles competitions.

Five Star Kitchen: Britain’s Next Great Chef Channel 4, 8pm

The semi-final finds the four remaining chefs put through their paces. First, they must present a feasting centrepiece designed to attract groups of diners who are keen to splash the cash. The pressure mounts in the kitchen as the chefs are next challenged to cater an exclusive banquet for 100 VIP guests.

9.00 Not Going Out. To take advantage of free tickets to Adventure Canyon Theme Park, Lee takes Mollie out of school for a day and gets into trouble with her new head teacher. Lee Mack stars.

9.30 Queen of Oz. After running into her old school bully Jessica, Georgie decides to host a dinner party for her in the hope that she can revel in Jessica’s life struggles since they last met.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop.

11.10 Film: Thelma & Louise. (1991) Drama, starring Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis.

1.15 BBC News.

SATURDAY’S TV 8.7.23

6.30 Homes Under the Hammer.

(R) 7.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.15 Politics UK. 11.00 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the fifth day from the All England Club.

3.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the fifth day.

7.00 The One Show. Alex Jones and Roman Kemp present the live magazine show featuring a mixture of celebrity chat and stories of interest.

7.30 Beechgrove Garden. Carole Baxter and Head Gardener Scott Smith tackle some of the topical queries they have received from viewers.

8.00 Gardeners’ World. The latest in floral fashions and highlights of the show gardens and floral marquee at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival.

9.00 Today at Wimbledon. Qasa Alom presents highlights of the fifth day’s play at the All England Club, featuring matches in the third round of the men’s and ladies’ singles.

10.00 The Fast Show. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.00 Weather.

11.05 Today at the Test. England v Australia.

12.05 Sign Zone: A Wright Family Holiday. (R) 12.35 Inside the Iranian Uprising. (R) 1.35 The Trouble with Kanye. (R) 2.50 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 French Adventure. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R)

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

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Coast & Country. Ruth Dodsworth and Sean Fletcher explore a magical garden.

7.30 Emmerdale.

8.00 Coronation Street. An exhausted Gemma seeks respite from childcare duties, Ryan is a victim of his own success at the bistro, and Stephen drops hints that Elaine is suffering from depression.

9.00 Riches. Claudia furiously works to regain Flair and Glory for her family. Meanwhile, as Nina acquaints herself with the business, a social media complaint against the company spirals.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 The 1% Club. (R)

11.40 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite.

1.20 Teleshopping. 3.00 Tour de France Highlights. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Sain Ffagan. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Prynhawn

Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: The Stranger in My Home. (2020) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. (R) 5.00 5 News at 5.

6.00 Eggheads. Look What I Made from Leicestershire try their luck against the Eggheads. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 The Good Gadget Guide: Shop Smart, Save Money. Ortis Deley and Georgie Barrat offer a smart solution to lost keys.

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Inside the Steam Train Museum. Engineer Brian has to repaint an engine ahead of the steampunk event where bizarre costumes and unusual activities descend upon the museum for a day of ”Victorian retro-futurism”.

9.00 Blindspot. Tony tells Hannah she is in serious trouble. Last in the series.

10.00 80s Greatest Hits: 1986. (R)

11.30 Film: Transporter 2. (2005) Action thriller sequel, starring Jason Statham.

1.05 Teleshopping. 3.05 Queen Mary: Great British Royal Ships. (R)

BBC1 BBC2 ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL CHOICE

Wales Today; Weather. 12.20 Wimbledon 2023. Live coverage of the sixth day from the All England Club, where the third round is scheduled to continue in the men’s and ladies’ singles competitions. 5.00 BBC News; Weather. 5.15

Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the sixth day from the All England Club, where the third round is scheduled to conclude in the men’s and ladies’ singles competitions.

The Voice Kids ITV, 7.30pm

The latest run of the junior version of the talent show is set to be short but very sweet. It’s only the second set of blind auditions, but superstar coaches Ronan Keating, Danny Jones, Pixie Lott and Will.i.am are already completing their teams. Which talented young singers, who are all aged between seven and 14, will get a place in the final and the chance to win a dream holiday?

9.15 Champion. Vita records a new single, but feels she is being pressured by her management into choices she does not want to make.

Bosco has a visit from the bailiffs that gets posted online.

10.05 BBC News; Weather.

10.25 Film: The Lady in the Van. (2015) The true story of Alan Bennett’s friendship with an eccentric homeless woman, whom he befriended before allowing her to park her van outside his Camden home.

Starring Maggie Smith.

12.05 Film: The Happy Prince.

(2018) Poet and playwright Oscar Wilde heads to France after release from prison in a bid to rebuild his life. Biographical drama, directed by and starring Rupert Everett.

1.40 Weather for the Week Ahead. A look ahead to the latest forecast.

1.45 BBC News.

6.45 Hey Duggee. (R) 7.00

Supertato. (R) 7.05 Shaun the Sheep. (R) 7.15 Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed! (R) 7.25 Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese. (R)

7.40 The Deep. (R) 8.00 OOglies Funsize. (R) 8.05 Game on Grandparents. (R) 8.30 One Zoo

Three. (R) 8.50 Newsround. 9.00

Blue Peter. (R) 9.30 Deadly 60. (R)

10.00 Pooch Perfect. (R) 11.00 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the sixth day from the All England Club.

3.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the sixth day.

6.00 Flog It! (R)

6.15 Dad’s Army. The platoon competes for the honour of guarding Winston Churchill.

6.45 Iolo: A Wild Life. Naturalist Iolo Williams recalls the past 25 years of filming in Wales. (R)

7.15 Iolo: A Wild Life. Iolo Williams goes in search of water voles in the Glaslyn Valley of Snowdonia. (R)

7.45 Kiri’s TV Flashback. (R)

8.15 The Joy of the Bee Gees. A profile of the pop group. (R)

9.15 Today at Wimbledon. Highlights of the sixth day’s play.

10.15 Bee Gees at the BBC and Beyond. (R)

11.15 TOTP2: Bee Gees Special. (R)

12.00 Today at the Test. 1.00 Pride Hits at the BBC. (R) 2.00 Film: The Macaluso Sisters. (2020) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 CITV: Dare Master. 6.05 Lloyd of the Flies. (R) 6.35 Looney Tunes Cartoons. 7.05 Mystery Lane. (R) 7.30 Teen Titans Go! (R) 7.55 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? (R) 8.25

ITV News. 8.30 Oti Mabuse’s Breakfast Show. 9.25 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. (R) 11.40 John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen. 12.40 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 1.10

ITV News; Weather. 1.30 ITV Racing: Live from Sandown. Coverage from Sandown Park and Haydock Park. 4.00 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals. (R) 4.30 Film: Moonraker. (1979)

7.00 ITV News; Weather.

7.15 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

7.30 The Voice Kids. Round two of the blind auditions gets under way and the superstar coaches Ronan Keating, Danny Jones, Pixie Lott and Will.i.am complete their teams. Presented by Emma Willis.

9.05 The Chase Celebrity Special. With Emmerdale stars Anthony Quinlan, Louisa Clein, James Moore and Dominic Brunt. (R)

10.05 Crime.

11.00 ITV News; Weather.

11.20 Film: Creed II. (2018) Drama, starring Michael B Jordan.

1.30 Teleshopping. 3.00 Tour de France Highlights. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R)

6.00 Cyw. 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Stwnsh Sadwrn Byw. 8.05 Larfa. (R) 8.30 Y Brodyr Adrenalini. (R)

6.00 Milkshake! 10.00

Teenage

Mutant Ninja Turtles. (R) 10.20

9.10 Bernard. (R) 9.25 Dennis a Dannedd. (R) 9.35 Mabinogi-ogi. (R)

10.00 Chris a’r Afal Mawr. (R)

11.00 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 11.30

Garddio a Mwy. (R) 12.00 Ffermio. (R) 12.30 Radio Fa’ma. (R) 1.30

Sain Ffagan. (R) 2.00 Seiclo: Tour de France. Live coverage of stage eight. 4.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R)

5.00 Ar Werth. 5.25 Cynefin. (R)

6.20 Bwrdd i Dri. (R)

6.45 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru. (R)

7.15 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.

7.30 Ein Llwybrau Celtaidd. (R)

8.00 Eisteddfod Llangollen 2023: Cor Y Byd.

10.30 Seiclo: Tour de France.

11.00 Hewlfa Drysor. (R)

12.05 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 6.55 The King of Queens. (R) 7.45 Frasier. (R) 8.45 The Simpsons. (R) 11.15 Live Formula 1: British Grand Prix Practice 3. 12.50 Monaco Grand Prix, The Legend. (R) 2.00 Live Formula 1 British Grand Prix Qualifying. 4.30 Chateau DIY. (R)

5.30 The Pennines: Backbone of Britain. (R) 6.30 Channel 4 News.

7.00 A Royal Guide to – Fashion. (R) 8.00 Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Journeys. (R) 9.00 Film: Mission: Impossible – Fallout. (2018) 11.55 Formula 1 British Grand Prix Qualifying Highlights.

12.55 Film: Zombieland: Double Tap. (2019) 2.30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 3.20 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R)

Entertainment News. 10.35 Friends. (R) 12.05 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. (R) 3.05 22 Kids & Counting. (R) 5.05 When Talent Shows Go Horribly Wrong. (R) 6.40 5 News Weekend.

6.45 Isle of Wight: Jewel of the South. Documentary celebrating the natural beauty and historical heritage of the Isle of Wight, following the lives of residents whose families have lived there for generations. (R)

7.45 Frogmore House: Royal Retreat. Royal journalists and historians reveal the secrets of the estate in the grounds of Home Park in Windsor, a private retreat for generations of royals going back to Queen Charlotte.

9.15 Sophie: The King’s Secret Weapon? A look at the Duchess of Edinburgh’s role in the royal family, with archive footage and insight from historians, insiders and journalists.

10.15 Greatest TV Moments of the 70s. (R)

12.10 TV’s Biggest Gameshows: 50 Years of Fun. (R) 1.05 Teleshopping. 3.00 Mayflower: Great British Ships. (R) 3.50 Get Your Tatts Out: Kavos Ink. (R)

Michel Roux Jr

Emma Willis

Friday July 7th 2023

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels

SUNDAY’S TV 9.7.23

CHOICE

BBC1 BBC2

6.00 Breakfast. 9.00 Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg. 10.00 Politics Wales. 10.30 Sunday Morning Live. 11.30 Songs of Praise. 12.00 BBC News. 12.10 Weather for the Week Ahead. 12.15 Wimbledon 2023. Isa Guha and Clare Balding present live coverage of the seventh day from the All England Club. 5.00 BBC News; Weather.

5.20 Wimbledon 2023. Further coverage of the seventh day from the All England Club.

Damian Lewis

A Spy Among Friends

ITV, 9pm

After Soviet double agent Kim Philby defects to the USSR in 1963, his friend and former MI6 colleague Nicholas Elliott comes under investigation by Lily Thomas from MI5. She tries to determine if he facilitated Philby's escape because he is also a traitor working for the Russians, or is it just that his judgement was clouded at a critical moment by their 23-year friendship?

8.00 Question of Sport. The conclusion of a two-part special, featuring panellists Scott Quinnell, Rachel Brown-Finnis, Harry AikinesAryeetey and Karen Pickering for the second week in a row.

(R)

8.30 Match of the Day Wales Live. USA Women v Wales Women (Kick-off 9.00pm). Coverage of the friendly at PayPal Park in San Jose.

11.10 Talk Disability: Invisible Disabilities. Welsh Paralympian Olivia Breen discusses her life and bouncing back from setbacks to become a multiple Paralympic and World Champion in sprint and long jump.

11.15 Film: Rain Man. (1988) A brash car dealer kidnaps his autistic brother in an effort to claim his share of their father’s fortune. Drama, with Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise.

1.25 BBC News.

ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL

BBC Four

6.35 Gardeners’ World. (R) 7.35 Countryfile. (R) 8.30 Beechgrove Garden. (R) 9.00 The Edible Garden. (R) 9.30 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites. 11.00 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the seventh day from the All England Club. 3.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the seventh day.

6.00 Film: The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. (2015) Retirement home owner Sonny sets out to expand his empire, but must impress an investor’s hotel inspector to do so. Comedy drama sequel, with Dev Patel and Maggie Smith.

8.00 Countryfile. Joe Crowley and Charlotte Smith are in Spalding, South Lincolnshire, the historic hub of Britain’s bulb and flower farming industry, to explore its rich heritage.

9.00 Antiques Roadshow. Fiona Bruce and the team head to Newby Hall & Gardens in Ripon, North Yorkshire, where treasures include an intriguing letter from Lord Nelson, and a piece of the set from Live Aid. (R)

10.00 BBC News; Weather.

10.20 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.25 Today at Wimbledon. Highlights of the seventh day’s play.

11.30 Today at the Test.

12.30 Coast. (R) 1.00 Sign Zone: Question Time. (R) 2.00 Africa Rising with Afua Hirsch. (R) 3.00 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 CITV: Dare Master. 6.05 Lloyd of the Flies. (R) 6.35 Looney Tunes Cartoons. 7.05 Mystery Lane. (R)

7.30 50/50 Heroes. (R) 7.55

Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? (R)

8.25 ITV News. 8.30 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. 9.25 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R)

11.25 Love Your Garden. (R) 12.25

Cooking with the Stars. (R) 1.25

ITV News; Weather. 1.35 The Masked Singer US. (R) 2.30 You’ve Been Framed! (R) 3.00 Film: For Your Eyes Only. (1981) 5.35 The Chase Celebrity Special. (R)

6.30 ITV News; Weather.

6.45 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

7.00 Sitting on a Fortune. Game show, hosted by Gary Lineker.

8.00 A Year on Planet Earth. New series. Stephen Fry examines the impact of the seasons on wildlife.

9.00 A Spy Among Friends. New series. After Kim Philby defects to the USSR, his friend and former colleague Nicholas Elliott comes under investigation by MI5. Factbased thriller, with Damian Lewis.

10.15 ITV News; Weather.

10.30 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. The actress visits important places in the spice trade. (R)

11.25 Long Lost Family. (R)

12.20 Monster Carp. (R) 1.10 Teleshopping. 3.00 Motorsport UK. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Tour de France Highlights. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw. 9.00 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 9.30

Codi Pac. (R) 10.00 Ty am Ddim. (R) 11.00 Ar y Dibyn. (R) 11.30

Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol. (R) 12.00 Yr Wythnos. 12.30

Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 1.00 Hewlfa Drysor. (R) 2.00 Seiclo: Tour de France. Live coverage of stage nine.

5.30 Ffermio. (R) 5.55 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R)

7.00 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.

7.15 Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol.

8.00 Am Dro! (R)

9.00 Uchafbwyntiau Llangollen 2023.

10.00 Seiclo: Tour de France.

10.30 Waliau’n Siarad. (R)

11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.15 Cheers. (R) 7.05

The King of Queens. (R) 8.30 Bake Off: The Professionals. (R) 9.30

Sunday Brunch. 12.30 The Simpsons. (R) 1.30 Live Formula 1 British Grand Prix Build Up. 2.30

Live Formula 1 British Grand Prix.

5.10 Live Formula 1 British Grand Prix Reaction. 6.00 Guy Martin’s World Speed Records. 6.30 Channel 4 News. 7.00 Jamie’s OnePan Wonders. 8.00 Exploring India’s Treasures with Bettany Hughes. 9.00 Film: A Quiet Place Part II. (2020) 10.50 Celebrity Gogglebox. (R) 11.50 Formula 1 British Grand Prix Highlights.

12.50 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 1.45 Come

Dine with Me. (R) 4.00 The Dog House. (R) 4.55 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 5.50-6.10 Kirstie’s Fill Your House for Free. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 10.00 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. (R) 10.20

Entertainment News. 10.35

Friends. (R) 12.05 Police Interceptors. (R) 2.05 Inside the Tower of London. (R) 4.05

Cromwell: Henry’s Henchman – His Rise & Fall.

6.05 5 News Weekend.

6.10 World’s Funniest TV Adverts with Jason Manford. The comedian takes a look at commercials from around the world, with this selection exploring the themes of parenting, holidays, banking, fast food, celebrities and the police.

8.00 Happy Campers: The Caravan Park. Holiday Resort Unity’s maintenance team facing a challenging day. Last in the series.

9.00 Coastguard: Every Second Counts. A team investigates an incident involving a speedboat.

10.00 999: Police Hour of Duty. (R)

10.50 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. (R)

11.50 HMP Wakefield: Evil Behind Bars. Secrets of life inside one of the UK’s toughest jails. (R)

1.00 Teleshopping. 3.00 Rich House, Poor House. (R) 3.50 Get Your Tatts Out: Kavos Ink. (R) 4.40 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. 5.40 Milkshake! Monkey’s Amazing Adventures. (R) 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)

7.00 Today at the Test 8.00 A

Midsummer Night’s Dream from Shakespeare’s Globe 10.45 Britain’s

MONDAY’S TV 10.7.23 BBC1 BBC2 ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL

CHOICE

6.30 Close Calls: On Camera. (R)

7.00 Homes Under the Hammer.

(R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Springwatch.

(R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.15 Politics Live. 11.00 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the eighth day from the All England Club. 3.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the eighth day.

7.00 The One Show. Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas host first visit of the week to the One Show studio, featuring the usual mix of topical stories and celebrity chat.

Long Lost Family

ITV, 9pm

Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell meet Sara Hathaway who, after losing her adoptive mother and older brother in the space of just a year, is desperate to find her birth family. Plus, Diane Kerridge shares her story of being forced to give up the child she gave birth to as a teenager in the 1960s. Over 50 years later, she is hoping to find her long lost son.

The Big Build. Nick Knowles and the team head to Bangor in Co Down to help the McCreights, who have a variety of medical issues and need their home to be made wheelchair friendly. (R)

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop. Performances from the 1990s, including Manic Street Preachers, Tigertailz, Charlotte Church, Super Furry Animals, Donna Lewis, Feeder, and Welsh music veteran Tom Jones. (R)

11.10 We Hunt Together. Freddy and Baba flee the city with victim number three in the boot of the car, while Jackson and Lola make a breakthrough.

12.00 Have I Got a Bit More News for You. (R) 12.45 BBC News.

7.30 EastEnders. Trouble is in store for Keanu when Lisa returns with Peggy.

8.00 Your Body Uncovered with Kate Garraway. Kate and Dr Guddi meet Tina, whose adventurous lifestyle has ground to a halt because of a spine problem, and Annabelle, who was pregnant when she found out she had breast cancer. (R)

9.00 Today at Wimbledon. Highlights of the eighth day’s play.

10.00 The Smell of Reeves and Mortimer. The Stotts appear on This Is Your Life. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Today at the Test. England v Australia.

12.15 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R)

1.15 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 1.45 The Great British Sewing Bee. (R) 2.45 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 French Adventure. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R)

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

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Charity ignores Marlon’s pleas and Dan is taken for further questioning. Dawn and Billy have an emotional moment.

8.00 Coronation Street. Adam fears that he has blood on his hands and Gemma faces the music with social services. Spider’s boss offers him a new assignment and Stephen resents Elaine’s new friend Gerry.

9.00 Long Lost Family. A woman who lost two members of her adoptive family in a single year is desperate to find her birth family, while another woman searches for the son she gave up against her will.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Sharp End.

11.40 John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen. (R)

12.30 Coast & Country. (R) 12.45

Teleshopping. 3.00 Tour de France Highlights. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00

Gwyliau Gartref. (R) 1.30 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru. (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: Fatal Flatshare. (2023) 4.00

Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. (R) 5.00 5 News at 5.

6.00 Eggheads. The Chicklets take on the regulars. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. Thorpe Thinkers try their luck against the expert. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

S4C a’r Tywydd.

7.00 Traffic Cops. Sgt Scott Riley deploys a stinger to bring a truck to a halt on the M1. (R)

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Police Interceptors. An officer pursues a pick-up truck being driven at speeds of over 100mph; 5 News Update.

3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 5.00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. 6.00 The Simpsons. (R) 6.30 Hollyoaks. (R)

7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 Supermarkets Unwrapped: The Vegan Aisle. 8.30 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It: Brilliant Builds.

9.00 24 Hours in A&E. 10.00

Wonders of the World I Can’t See.

11.05 Dr Death. 12.05 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R)

12.55 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 1.50 Evacuation. (R) 2.45 Grand Designs. (R)

9.00 Police: Night Shift 999. A West Mercia officer is called in to assist the stopping of a car. 10.00 Ambulance: Code Red. A man who has overdosed on heroin is unconscious and barely breathing. (R)

Davina McCall

TUESDAY’S TV 11.7.23 BBC1 BBC2 ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL CHOICE

6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.15 Sign Zone: Clive Myrie’s Italian Road Trip. (R) 7.45 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 8.15 The Super League Show. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 11.00 BBC News. 11.45

Politics Live. 12.30 Wimbledon

2023. Coverage of the ninth day from the All England Club. 4.00 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the prestigious tournament.

6.00

6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

7.00 The One Show. With Lauren Laverne and Jermaine Jenas.

7.30 EastEnders. Sharon and Keanu prepare to introduce Albie to Peggy.

Danny Dyer

Heat Channel 5, 9pm

Danny Dyer leads the cast in an intense four-part drama set in Victoria, Australia, focusing on two families of British ex-pats who live in different parts of the country, but reunite for a summer holiday. While the reunion is a warm one, various tensions bubble beneath the surface, with suspicions of an affair and the surprise appearance of an old flame clouding proceedings.

8.00 Brave Britain with Fergal Keane. Award-winning reporter Fergal Keane goes in search of hope in today’s Britain.

9.00 Joe Swash: Teens in Care. Joe Swash reveals the harsh reality of what it’s like growing up in the care system.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Ruck Stars. The Under 18 academies of two of the biggest teams in world rugby. (R)

11.10 Body on the Beach: What Happened to Annie? (R)

11.40 Body on the Beach: What Happened to Annie? Hazel Martin pieces together Annie Borjesson’s final hours. (R)

12.15 Ghosts US. (R) 12.55 BBC News.

WEDNESDAY’S TV 12.7.23

CHOICE

8.00 Today at Wimbledon. Qasa Alom presents highlights of the ninth day’s play at the All England Club, as the men’s and ladies’ quarter-finals got under way.

9.00 Your Home Made Perfect. A couple remodel their threebedroom Croydon home, which has started to feel too small after living there for 19 years, with three teenagers fighting for space.

10.00 3 Non-Blondes. Tameka Empson, Jocelyn Jee Esien and Ninia Benjamin star in this hidden-camera comedy show, appearing on the streets of Britain in a variety of outrageous guises. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Welsh First Minister’s Questions. Mark Drakeford answers questions from the Senedd.

12.15 The North York Moors: A Wild Year. (R) 12.40 Sign Zone: Frontline Fightback. (R) 1.25 Big Little Crimes. (R) 2.10 Your Home Made Perfect. (R) 3.10 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 French Adventure. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R)

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

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Amelia makes a shocking discovery.

8.00 The Martin Lewis Money Show: Live: Mortgage Special. As interest rates rise, and many of the nation’s homeowners face sky high repayments, the cash expert presents a special programme focusing on mortgages.

9.00 Cooking with the Stars. Chris Eubank, Jason Watkins, Claire Richards and Indiyah Polack turn their attention to Indian cuisine. Presented by Emma Willis and Tom Allen.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Ellie Simmonds: Finding My Secret Family. (R)

11.40 Tour de France Highlights. (R)

12.30 Extreme E Highlights. 1.25 Teleshopping. 3.00 A Year on Planet Earth. (R) 3.50 Unwind.

5.05 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R)

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

1.00 Prynhawn Da. 1.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.00 Seiclo: Tour de France.

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: Evil Stepmother. (2021) 4.00

Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. (R)

5.00 5 News at 5.

6.00 Eggheads. Life’s Too Short try their luck against the experts. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. Kinder Maxi from Hampshire take on the experts. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 Edinburgh with Gregg Wallace. The MasterChef judge explores Scotland’s capital. (R)

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 The Yorkshire Vet. A Large Munsterlander dog has a cancerous tumour on his jaw; 5 News Update.

9.00 Heat. New series. Danny Dyer leads the cast in an intense four-part drama set in Victoria, Australia.

10.00 999: Emergency Call Out. A car has crashed into a wall and ended up on its roof. (R)

11.05 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (R)

12.05 Traffic Cops. (R) 1.00

Teleshopping. 3.00 HMS Ark Royal: Great British Ships. (R) 3.50 Get Your Tatts Out: Kavos Ink. (R) 4.40

BBC1 BBC2 ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL

6.00 Breakfast. 9.15 Morning Live. 10.00 Close Calls: On Camera.

Animal Park. 11.15 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 12.15 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the 10th day from the All England Club.

1.00 BBC News at One; Weather.

1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

1.45 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the 10th day from the All England Club.

6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

7.00 The One Show. Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas present the magazine show with stories of interest from around the UK.

Murder on the Blackpool Express

BBC2, 9pm

Feature-length comedy about a crime writer (Griff Rhys Jones) who takes a group of his fans on a coach tour of locations from his books. The bus is soon leaving a string of bodies in its wake, and the passengers are faced with the possibility of a murderer in their midst. With Johnny Vegas, Nigel Havers and Una Stubbs.

7.30 EastEnders. Phil thinks Lisa is hiding something from him about Louise.

8.00 The Repair Shop. A wartime bicycle car is restored. (R)

8.30 Full House. Drag artistes Dominic and Tom grace Judges Bingo hall. (R)

9.00 The Great British Sewing Bee. The five remaining sewers compete in the quarter-finals and are challenged to make garments inspired by history’s most influential fashion Icons.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Kiri’s TV Flashback.

11.10 Who Do You Think You Are? (R)

12.10 Wireless Festival 2023

Highlights. 1.10 BBC News.

6.30 Homes Under the Hammer.

(R) 7.30 Close Calls: On Camera.

(R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Springwatch.

(R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 11.00 BBC News. 11.15 Politics Live.

1.00 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of the 10th day from the All England Club. 4.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the 10th day from the All England Club, including the scheduled conclusion of the singles and doubles quarterfinals.

8.00 Today at Wimbledon. Qasa Alom presents highlights of the 10th day’s play at the All England Club, where the men’s and ladies’ singles quarter-finals were scheduled to conclude.

9.00 Murder on the Blackpool Express. Feature-length comedy starring Griff Rhys Jones as a crime writer who takes fans on a coach tour of his books’ locations – only to leave a string of bodies in their wake.

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather. The latest forecast.

11.15 Film: Nowhere Special. (2020) Premiere. A window cleaner is given only a few months to live, and attempts to find a new family for his three-year-old son. Drama, starring James Norton and Daniel Lamont.

12.50 Sign Zone: Rip Off Britain.

(R) 1.35 Big Little Crimes. (R) 2.20

Our Lives: My Husband the MMA Fighter. (R) 2.50 This Is BBC Two. Preview of upcoming programmes.

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

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

2.00 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R)

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

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Dawn and Billy are worried for Clemmie.

8.00 Coronation Street. Gemma voices her money worries to Chesney, and Toyah seeks Leanne’s advice on her future with Spider.

9.00 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. Joanna returns to her birthplace, India, starting in the majestic ancient city of Hampi, in search of a kitchen cupboard staple once known as ’black gold’.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Peston. Political magazine show, hosted by Robert Peston.

11.40 A Year on Planet Earth. Stephen Fry examines the impact of the seasons on wildlife. (R)

12.30 Extreme E Highlights. 1.25 Teleshopping. 3.00 Energy Bills: Can Green Be Cheaper? Tonight. (R)

3.25 Kate & Koji. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Tour de France Highlights. (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 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 1.00 Prynhawn Da. 1.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.00 Seiclo: Tour de France. Live coverage of stage

11. 4.40 Anifeiliaid

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: Abducted: Searching for Emma. (2023) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. (R) 5.00 5 News at

5.

6.00 Eggheads. Motley Crew take on the experts once more. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. The Sawnettas take on the quiz experts. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 York with Gregg Wallace. The host explores the city of York. (R)

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Jersey and Guernsey. Sea-faring couple Buz White and Tess Woodnut test out their new cruiser; 5 News Update.

9.00 Heat. Word of the fires spreading adds extra anxiety to the household.

(R) 4.00 Chateau DIY. (R) 5.00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses. 6.00 The Simpsons. (R) 6.30 Hollyoaks. (R)

7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home.

9.00 Extraordinary Escapes with Sandi Toksvig. 10.00 Murder in the Alps. (R) 1.00 Wonders of the World I Can’t See. (R) 1.55 Extraordinary Escapes with Sandi Toksvig. (R) 2.50 Supermarkets Unwrapped: The Vegan Aisle. (R) 3.20 Evacuation. (R)

10.00 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts. The hospital suffers a huge backlog of untreated patients. (R)

11.05 Skin A&E. (R) 12.05 Coastguard: Every Second Counts. (R) 1.00 Teleshopping.

3.00 The Great Viking Massacre: Ancient Mysteries. (R) 3.50 Get Your Tatts Out: Kavos Ink. (R) 4.40

Griff Rhys Jones

13.7.23

6.45 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.30 Close

Calls: On Camera. (R) 8.00 Sign

Zone: Clive Myrie’s Italian Road Trip. (R) 8.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.

11.00 BBC News. 11.45 Politics

Live. 12.30 Wimbledon 2023.

Coverage of day 11. 4.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the 11th day.

9.00 Today at Wimbledon. Qasa Alom presents highlights of the 11th day’s play at the All England Club, featuring the ladies’ singles semi-finals and the mixed doubles final.

Mark Wright

A Wright Family Holiday

BBC1, 8pm

The lads’ penultimate adventure is in the Peak District. Josh and Mark’s kayak down the River Derwent’s rapids becomes a competitive race in which one sibling is triumphant and the other fuming. Mark Sr, meanwhile, is just happy floating downstream and taking in the scenery from the comfort of a rubber ring. The Wrights’ next stop is the town of Bakewell.

Who Do You Think You Are?

Radio presenter Dev Griffin learns about his Irish and Jamaican ancestry, including stories from Ireland and some very details from his great grandparents’ lives in Jamaica.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Legends of Welsh Sport. (R)

11.10 Film: Brooklyn. (2015) Drama, starring Saoirse Ronan.

12.55 BBC News.

FRIDAY’S TV 14.7.23

CHOICE

10.00 Alas Smith & Jones. Mel Smith and Griff Rhys Jones provide the laughs in an episode of their second series from 1985, which features comedy, music and a nasty skin complaint. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather. The latest forecast.

11.15 Super Telescope: Mission to the Edge of the Universe. As NASA releases the first images from the James Webb Space Telescope, this film tells the inside story of the instrument’s construction. (R)

12.15 Sign Zone: Dr Xand’s Con or Cure. (R) 1.00 Spy in the Ocean.

The final episode explores the challenges that ocean life must overcome. Last in the series. (R)

2.00 Clean It, Fix It. (R) 2.45 A Wright Family Holiday. (R) 3.15

This Is BBC Two. Preview of upcoming programmes.

6.30 Homes Under the Hammer.

(R) 7.30 Close Calls: On Camera.

(R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’

World. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.

11.00 BBC News. 11.45 Politics

UK. 12.30 Wimbledon 2023. Coverage of day 12. 4.00 Wimbledon 2023. Further live coverage of the 12th day.

7.00 BBC Proms 2023. New series. Clive Myrie presents the First Night of the Proms live from the Royal Albert Hall, with the BBC Symphony Orchestra performing music by Sibelius, Grieg and Britten.

BBC Proms 2023

BBC2, 7pm

Clive Myrie is joined by guests Sandi Toksvig and Anna Lapwood for the First Night of the Proms live from the Royal Albert Hall. This year's eight-week long musical extravaganza launches in style with Sibelius's ever popular Finlandia, Grieg's dramatic Piano Concerto performed by classical superstar Paul Lewis, and Britten's muchloved The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra.

a phone call from Lucy reminds him what he had been doing that afternoon. Lee Mack stars.

9.30 Queen of Oz. Georgie is subjected to scathing criticism from the media and the public.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop.

11.10 Film: Yesterday. (2019) A musician wakes up after being hit by a bus to find he is the only person in the world who remembers the Beatles. Danny Boyle’s comedy, with Himesh Patel and Lily James.

1.00 BBC News.

9.00 Today at Wimbledon. Qasa Alom presents highlights of the 12th day’s play, where the men’s singles semi-finals were scheduled to take centre-stage at the All England Club.

10.00 The Fast Show. The OffRoaders get stuck. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.00 Weather.

11.05 QI XL. Sandi Toksvig hosts an extended edition, with Rose Matafeo, Lou Sanders, Ross Noble and regular Alan Davis answering questions involving ticks, tax and toes.

(R)

11.50 Sign Zone: Parole. A 30-year-old who has been in and out of prison since the age of 15. Last in the series.

(R)

12.50 Film: Ben Is Back. (2018)

2.25 The Repair Shop: NHS Special. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.

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

12.30 Loose Women. 1.00 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.25 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

1.30 ITV Racing: Live from Newmarket. Day one of the July Festival. 4.00 Tipping Point. (R)

5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Cain and Paddy help Dan. Marlon has a difficult conversation to make. Tracy is made up.

8.30 How to Age Well: Your Lifestyle – Tonight. In the first of two programmes looking at healthy ageing, journalist Lara Lewington explores the lifestyle changes that might help us all live better for longer.

9.00 Murder in the Family. New series. Documentary examining killings where the victim and perpetrator are related.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Coast & Country. (R)

11.10 The Motorbike Show. Henry Cole rides through the Lincolnshire Wolds. (R)

12.10 Tour de France Highlights. (R) 1.00 Teleshopping. 3.00 All Elite Wrestling: Rampage. 3.55 Unwind. 5.05 Oti Mabuse’s Breakfast Show. (R)

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

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: Heist and Seek: An Aurora Teagarden Mystery. (2020)

4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. (R) 5.00 5 News at 5.

6.00 Eggheads. Quayside Quizzers try their luck against the Eggheads. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. Victoria Phoenix try their luck against the Eggheads. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 Venice with Gregg Wallace. The presenter heads for Italy, where he explores the sights of Venice. Last in the series. (R)

Lucy

The truth behind Tom’s injury is revealed.

WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.30 Loose Women. 1.00 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.25 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

1.30 ITV Racing: Live from Newmarket. Coverage of day two of the July Meeting. 4.00 Tipping Point. (R) 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Coast & Country. The best of the Welsh countryside and its people.

7.30 Emmerdale. Gabby lays into Nicky.

8.00 Coronation Street. Spider’s mystery enemy targets an oblivious Toyah, Chesney seeks Kirk’s help, Lauren’s true motive becomes clear to Max, and Sarah and Adam’s families gather for an announcement.

9.00 Riches. As the Richards gear up for the biggest event of the year, news of the embezzlement comes as a blow, and Andre uncovers a fact that will have big ramifications for Nina.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 The 1% Club. Quiz, hosted by Lee Mack. (R)

11.40 Monster Carp. (R)

12.35 Teleshopping. 3.00 Tour de France Highlights. (R) 3.50

Unwind. 5.05 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Sain Ffagan. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Prynhawn Da. 1.55 Newyddion

S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.00 Seiclo: Tour de France. Live coverage of stage

13. 4.30 Nos Da Cyw. (R) 4.35

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: Tempted By Danger. (2020)

4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. (R) 5.00 5 News at 5.

6.00 Eggheads. The Eagles from Stockton-on-Tees take on the regulars. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. The Medway and Solent Originals take on the regulars. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 The Good Gadget Guide: Shop Smart, Save Money. A look at the best value electric BBQs. Last in the series.

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Inside Greggs: 24/7. Part one of two. Grace Dent traces the history of the popular fast food company.

9.00 Heat. Terror sets in when Tom does not return to the house. Last in the series.

10.00 Britain’s Favourite 80s Songs. A look back at 1987, when George Michael, Madonna and T'Pau stormed the charts. (R)

11.30 Film: Jason Statham’s Wild Card. (2015) Action thriller, starring Jason Statham.

1.20 Teleshopping. 3.20 Red

Arrows: Kings of the Sky. (R) 4.05

The Funny Thing About Love & Sex.

(R) 4.55 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.20

House Doctor. (R) 5.45

Entertainment News. 5.50

2.30 Come Dine with Me. (R) 4.35 Beat the Chef. (R)

Milkshake! Monkey’s

Dalia Stasevska

SPORT, it isn’t just a game, for many people around a county it’s a wayof-life and a necessity.

Staying active is good for both our mental and physical health, it can teach teamwork, dedication and focus.

The skills picked up from taking part in sport are too numerous to mention, but it’s not always easy for people with ability issues.

The Herald are changing that today by taking a closer look at local sports clubs that either cater for or are aimed solely at improving access to sport for everyone, no matter their ability or learning difficulties.

This week we’re taking a closer look at Pembroke Dock Cricket Club which was awarded the insport ribbon standard by Cricket Wales; by achieving certain goals and ensuring the club was able to delivery coaching and training, potentially in a range of different formats to a spectrum to disabled and non-disabled people,

These goals are about good practice across the board, and supporting the clubs doing this will mean that opportunities for involvement in the sport the clubs offer will increase.

Pembroke Dock Cricket Club has two senior sides, a First and Second Eleven who play in the Pembroke County Cricket Club league.

The teams comprise of

senior and juniors; the mix works well as each player has an opportunity to bat and bowl.

The Under 15 team play on the league as well.

Pembroke Dock Cricket Club has a strong coaching structure; consisting of two Level 2 coaches and four Level 1 coach assistants. All have attended a First Aid course.

One of the club’s mottos is enjoy – that extends to the cricket and social side of the club.

The management committee arrange various activities throughout the year such as charity matches, and various fund raisers.

Soft ball festivals have also been introduced to promote the Ladies cricket; all-encompassing everyone from the community.

Sport shouldn’t be exclusive, we’ve seen during the pandemic that many, many people rely on the local sports scene for their mental health as well as their physical health.

The sports we play are not all about the physical act of hitting or kicking a ball, there’s also the social aspects with many Pembrokeshire residents using teambased sports as their main chance to make and speak to friends and to be around like-minded people, those

of us with restricted abilities could be missing out on vital opportunities to socialise and learn the inter-personal skills that being part of a team or club teach you.

Pembrokeshire has a vibrant and active sports scene and it seems that Pembrokeshire’s disabled sports scene is just as vibrant and just as vital an outlet for the members of those clubs.

Next we’re taking a closer look at the Clarby Warriors, the pan-disability football team based at Clarbeston Road AFC.

The Warriors were formed more than 20 years ago and draws players from much of the county of Pembrokeshire.

The team takes part in regular pan disability festivals across south Wales and the players also have many social connections outside of football.

The team trains every Wednesday evening at Pembroke Leisure Centre between 7pm and 8pm and fortnightly on Sunday mornings at the Clarbeston Road AFC Graham Roberts Field.

Now that football has resumed again, the Warriors are looking to recruit new players of all ages and abilities and new members are very welcome to come along to trainings sessions.

Further information may be obtained from Disability Football Co-ordinator Ian Eynon, at ian_eynon@hotmail. com or on 07849 528444 or via their facebook page: clarby warriors football team. Or via the clubs main web site, www. clarbestonroadafc.co.uk

Clarby Warriors prove that there’s real longevity and call for teams that cater to those with differing abilities, andwe’re going to do all we can to promote and highlight the plight of the clubs and organisations that offer their services to those with alternate or restricted abilities, keep up the great work!

TAFTER the resounding success of the 2022 event, which saw New zealand driver Hayden Paddon emerge victorious, Rali Ceredigion is back for another exciting edition in 2023.

As a key round of the Motorsport UK British Rally Championship, the Protyre Asphalt Rally Championship, TER – Tour European Rally, and the FIA European Rally Trophy, this year’s event is set to attract both domestic and overseas competitors.

Building upon its commitment to sustainability, Rali Ceredigion made significant strides in 2022. It became the first UK event to fully offset the emissions of all

competing vehicles, permitted electric rally cars in a multi-venue rally for the first time in the UK, and ran under the FIA’s new environmental management accreditation. With an extended duration of two days, this year’s event will continue its pioneering efforts in sustainability, focusing on minimizing its environmental impact and leaving a lasting legacy of environmental improvement.

The inaugural running of Rali Ceredigion took place on September 8, 2019, making it the first special stage rally in Wales to be held entirely on closed public roads. The event was a tremendous success, with 120 crews thrilling thousands of

spectators as they navigated the challenging stages around Aberystwyth. Welsh crew Osian Pryce and Dale Furniss emerged as the winners, etching their names in the event’s history.

The 2022 edition of Rali Ceredigion further elevated its profile by counting towards prestigious championships, including the Motorsport UK British Rally Championship, the FIA European Rally Trophy, the Tour European Rally, and the Protyre Motorsport UK Asphalt Rally Championship. It was also a trailblazer in sustainability, offsetting the carbon emissions of all competitors and achieving the coveted FIA Environmental

Accreditation.

New Zealand’s Hayden Paddon and Jared Hudson claimed victory, showcasing their skills and resilience.

In 2023, Rali Ceredigion remains committed to sustainability and minimizing its environmental impact.

Under the guidance of an Environmental Manager, the event aims to introduce innovative initiatives to achieve these goals. By partnering with local organizations, Rali Ceredigion aims to promote the adoption of lower-carbon transport alternatives and create a long-lasting legacy of environmental improvement. Measures such as reducing vehicle movements associated with spectators, providing public transport options, and implementing waste recycling at official

spectator locations will contribute to the event’s sustainability efforts. Additionally, the event will pioneer alternative lowcarbon fuel options, and spectators will have the opportunity to contribute to responsible tree planting to offset their impact.

The 2023 edition of Rali Ceredigion promises excitement and challenge with its 14 stages spread across two days. The total length of special stages has increased by 16% from the previous year, covering 100.6 miles (162 kilometers). The event organizers have also reduced the entry fee, making it more accessible to competitors. With a strong focus on sustainability and an international field of competitors, Rali Ceredigion will once again captivate motorsport enthusiasts when it takes place in September 2023.

THiS WEEK iN CRiCKET

Neyland and Lamphey maintain dominance

The Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League witnessed another exciting weekend of cricket action as the league leaders, Neyland and Lamphey, continued to assert their dominance.

In Division One, Neyland’s Nic Koomen showcased his batting prowess with an unbeaten 114, leading his team to a resounding victory over Herbrandston. Neyland set an imposing target of 220-6, and Herbrandston’s hopes were dashed by the accurate bowling of Ross Hardy and Andrew Miller, who claimed three wickets each. Herbrandston were all out for a mere 68, sealing Neyland’s triumph by a staggering 152 runs.

Meanwhile, Carew emerged victorious in their match against Narberth. Rhys Davies contributed 85 runs to Carew’s total of 225-7, and Shaun Whitfield’s all-around performance of 32 runs and 5-19 with the ball played a pivotal role in their win. Narberth struggled to chase the target and were eventually bowled out for 117, succumbing to a defeat by 108 runs.

In another closely contested fixture, Lawrenny clinched a thrilling four-wicket victory over Llangwm.

Ryan Morton’s superb bowling display of 5-28 restricted Llangwm to 120-6. Despite a valiant effort from Gary James, who scored 41 runs, Lawrenny’s batting lineup, led by Finley Lewis and Morton, guided them to the target with six wickets in hand.

Moving on to Division Two, Cresselly and St Ishmaels emerged victorious in their respective matches. Phil Williams starred for Cresselly with a top score of 71, leading his team to a 44-run win over Saundersfoot. St Ishmaels, on the other hand, comfortably defeated Burton by 82 runs, with Philip Cockburn finishing unbeaten on 58 runs.

Thomas carroll pembrokeshire league

In Division Three, Lamphey continued their dominance with a comprehensive ninewicket victory over Llechryd Seconds. David Blackwell’s bowling figures of 3-27 and Peter McGilloway’s 2-16 restricted Llechryd to 1368. Lamphey’s batsmen, Rob Mathias (53*) and Blackwell (64*), ensured a smooth chase as they reached 137-1.

Stackpole faced a heavy defeat at the hands of Pembroke, who won by nine wickets. Will Davies’ impressive knock of 80, accompanied by Ceri Brace’s unbeaten 40, guided Pembroke to an easy victory after Stackpole had set a target of 140.

In Division Four, Hundleton secured a convincing 73-run win over Carew III. Ben Adams played a pivotal role for Hundleton with a crucial 61 runs and three wickets, leading his team to a total of 203-5. Carew III’s Logan Hall and Ashley Lewis made noteworthy contributions but fell short of the target, eventually bowled out for 130.

Across the divisions, there were standout performances from individual players.

Andrew Edwards excelled for Laugharne with a remarkable score of 114 runs and later contributed with five wickets, helping his team secure a resounding 205-run win over Haverfordwest II.

St Ishmaels II’s Kevin Bowen demonstrated his all-round abilities, scoring 33 runs and claiming an impressive 7-4 to guide his team to a 91-run victory over Narberth II.

As the Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League approaches the halfway mark, Neyland and Lamphey remain at the top of their respective divisions.

With several exciting matches and exceptional performances, cricket enthusiasts across Pembrokeshire eagerly anticipate the next round.

Fixtures

8th

Crymych v Llangwm II

Fishguard v Lawrenny II

Neyland II v Hundleton

Saundersfoot II v Haverfordwest III

division 5

Haverfordwest IV v Pembroke II

Kilgetty II v Whitland II

Pembroke Dock II v Herbrandston II

division 6

Hundleton II v Whitland III

Neyland III v Llechryd III

Stackpole II v Cresselly III www.herald.wales/sport

Plumtree receives surprise call-up to Wales squad

arcHie HugHeS riSing STar

S CARLETS - BOUND

back-rower Taine

Plumtree has received a surprise call-up to Warren Gatland’s Wales squad in preparation for the upcoming Rugby World Cup. The 23-yearold, who recently signed with Scarlets, is the son of John Plumtree, former assistant coach of the All Blacks and current head coach of the Sharks.

Plumtree joined the Wales team at Heathrow Airport on Monday and will accompany them to Switzerland for a two-week training camp. Gatland explained the decision to include the former Blues flanker, highlighting Plumtree’s physical attributes and revealing his eligibility to play for New Zealand or South Africa.

In a statement, Gatland said, “We’ve called up Taine Plumtree to the squad to give him an opportunity. I spoke to Taine about three weeks ago when he was in discussions with the Scarlets. He seemed pretty excited. He’s born in Swansea, has come through the New Zealand system, and is also eligible for South Africa with a South African mum.”

Gatland further justified Plumtree’s selection, citing injuries and unavailability of certain players. “For us, given that we’ve had Josh Macleod pull out of the squad due to injury, some players unavailable, and Taulupe Faletau has picked up a bit of an injury, we thought it was a great opportunity for Taine to come in. He’s a six-foot-

five back-row forward; we don’t have a lot of those here in Wales.”

While it remains uncertain if Plumtree will make the final World Cup squad, Gatland expressed his interest in keeping him in mind for future competitions. “He’s 23, whether he makes the World Cup squad or not, he’s definitely a player we want to keep in mind for the future. Potentially, that’s later down the track with the Six Nations, but he gets a chance to come in and we just know how excited he is to get the opportunity to come in and take that chance with us out in Switzerland.”

In other squad updates, winger Alex Cuthbert and fly-half Owen Williams did not travel to Switzerland

due to personal reasons. Meanwhile, Taulupe Faletau, who has been recovering from a calf muscle injury, is expected to join the group next week. Following the Switzerland camp, the squad will head to Turkey for a second overseas training camp before engaging in World Cup warm-up matches against England and South Africa in August.

Wales will kick off their World Cup campaign against Fiji in Bordeaux on September 10. The official 33-man Rugby World Cup squad will be announced after the conclusion of the warm-up matches.

Vodafone becomes principal partner of Wales rugby team

IN A groundbreaking agreement, Vodafone has been announced as the new front of shirt sponsor for the senior men’s Wales rugby team starting next season.

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has secured a major multi-year partnership with Vodafone, making them the principal partner of the men’s senior squad and pathway teams. This partnership, effective from July 1, will also extend to encompass men’s, women’s, and pathway rugby in Wales, uniting all teams under one sponsorship. The WRU is committed to fostering rugby at all levels and sees this collaboration as an opportunity for growth.

The introduction of

Vodafone as the principal sponsor will bring about a change in the appearance of the Wales men’s kit, which will be unveiled next month. It is important to note that the jersey worn by Taulupe Faletau in the launch photographs does not represent the new kit. The upcoming Rugby World Cup jersey will not feature a sponsor. However, for the subsequent two years, Vodafone will replace Cazoo as the sponsor of the Wales team’s kit.

One of the key initiatives Vodafone will continue investing in is the Player Connect platform. This technology has undergone significant developments in the past year, including the incorporation of

menstrual cycle tracking technology. This feature assists the Wales Women’s team in analyzing how the menstrual cycle affects performance, well-being, and recovery. Additionally,

Vodafone plans to leverage its 5G network to enhance the matchday experiences of both Cardiff-based spectators and those watching from home.

Archie’s journey took an exciting turn when he received the opportunity tojoin the Wales U20s team for their matches against the Sharks and Bulls in South Africa as part of the URC competition. However, his journey with the national team did not end there. The young scrum half solidified his position as Wales’ first-choice number nine during the 2023 U20s Six Nations, earning him a spot on the World Cup squad for the summer tournament in South Africa.

Meanwhile, closer to home, the proud county of Pembrokeshire eagerly supports its homegrown talent. Archie Hughes, hailing from Tenby, continues to shine as a member of the Wales U20s team. As the team prepares for their final group game in the U20 World Championship against France U20s, Archie

retains his starting position as scrum half. His exceptional performance in the previous match against Japan, where he was named player of the match, solidified his role as a key player in the squad. Notably, Archie contributed a well-worked try to the team’s impressive 4119 victory.

Archie Hughes, a product of Tenby RFC, has come a long way on his rugby journey. From his memorable debut with the Scarlets Academy to representing Wales U20s in international competitions, his talent and determination have propelled him forward. As the young scrum half prepares to take the field once again, Pembrokeshire and the entire nation eagerly watch, knowing that he has the potential to make a significant impact on the game and continue his ascent in the world of rugby.

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