without the requisite licence from the Security Industry Act 2001.
Dowson, residing on Princes Street, Pembroke Dock and aged 56, allegedly served as a door supervisor between April 30 and June 4, 2022. He firmly denies these allegations.
Although proceedings were scheduled to kick off earlier this morning of September 7, a plea for adjournment by Dowson led to a slight delay. This plea stemmed from a recent amendment by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) which, having been issued a mere 24 hours prior to the trial, caught Dowson off guard. This amendment pinpointed Dowson as a sole trader at the time of the alleged offence, not an employee, to which Dowson remarked, “The
amendment significantly alters the circumstances, and I had less than a day to adjust.”
Despite Dowson’s longstanding desire to represent himself, this sudden change prompted him to request the adjournment to confer with legal counsel. The SIA, however, expressed that this amendment wouldn’t influence the trial’s outcome. Eorann O’Connor, the SIA barrister, showed surprise at the adjournment request, stating, “He was clear about representing himself. Delaying with seven witnesses ready to testify is not in the interest of justice.”
Following deliberations, the magistrates decided that the trial would carry on as planned
PLANS for a new estate of 54 homes in a south Pembrokeshire seaside village have been given the go-ahead by national park planners, with a condition that 13 are not second homes.
The application for the mixtures of 27 houses and 27 flats/apartments – together with ancillary works – at agricultural land north of Whitlow, Saundersfoot, was made by Morgan Construction (Wales) Limited and Barcud Housing Association.
The application, which includes a mix of 19 affordable properties, meeting the Saundersfoot area requirement for 35 per cent of such properties – was recommended for conditional approval at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s September 6 development management committee.
A report for members highlighted further financial contributions required,
including £25,000 for upgrading existing play facilities adjacent to the village’s Regency Hall, and £5,000 to purchase furniture to upgrade the Regency Hall.
No objection to the plans was received by local community council Saundersfoot, other than concerns regarding the possibility of properties being sold as second homes, but several letters of objection were received, raising concerns including the potential for the new dwellings to become holiday lets, loss of privacy to neighbouring properties, loss of views, and the impact on existing property values.
A report for planners said that there was an assumption that just under 29 per cent of properties in Saundersfoot could be
categorised as second homes or holiday lets, which could lead to 71 per cent of the apartments –the most likely to be viewed as suitable for second homes – having a sole or main residence condition on them.
This would mean 13 of the 19 open market apartments would have a ‘C3’ main use condition, separate from the affordable housing requirement.
The option of a new Class C3 (primary residence) designation, removing permitted development rights to prevent use of Classes C5 and C6 (second home and holiday lets), was introduced in Wales late last year.
At the September planning meeting, members were told the new ‘C3’ designation was still a learning process for officers, the second such application after a recently-
MICHAEL DAVIES, a 47-year-old resident of Haven Court in Monkton, made an appearance at Swansea Crown Court, confessing to an assault causing actual bodily harm against a female individual in Pembroke.
The incident in question transpired on July 22 of the previous year.
Davies openly acknowledged his guilt pertaining to the charge.
Representing Davies, barrister Dyfed Thomas highlighted
that his client had maintained sobriety for a commendable four years. Unfortunately, the regrettable act of assault occurred during a momentary lapse in this period of sobriety.
Presiding Judge Huw Rees mandated that a comprehensive pre-sentencing report be compiled. Additionally, he allowed the defence a stipulated time to procure pertinent medical evidence.
Pending his official sentencing slated for October 9, Davies has been released on bail.
approved change of use of Tenby’s former Royal Mail sorting office to a residential development.
Back in April, members backed the Warren Street, Tenby plans for 34 units, with a proviso only a quarter could be second homes or holiday lets.
Moving approval, Councillor Rhys Jordan said: “There’s no doubt in my mind it would be an excellent addition to Saundersfoot.”
He was backed by Saundersfoot South councillor Chris Willliams, who said: “We haven’t had a development like that in Saundersfoot for many years,” hoping the development would house families that could help bolster numbers in the nearby school.
Members unanimously backed the application, with a long string of conditions including the ‘C3’ restriction.
GRAHAM POTTER was brought to court in Haverfordwest on Tuesday after an anonymous tip-off on September 4 indicated he was with a woman he was prohibited from contacting due to a domestic violence protection order. The pair were spotted walking towards a tent in Haverfordwest.
Although the woman had actively sought Potter out, authorities
highlighted that the responsibility of adhering to the order rested solely with him.
While the police representative advocated for a prison sentence to ensure the couple’s separation, Potter’s solicitor, Mr. David James, argued that the woman had been the primary instigator. Regardless, the court sentenced Potter to 14 days in jail.
THE FAMILy of a man who died following a collision involving a bus near the Cleddau Bridge, Pembroke Dock, on Tuesday say he was “loved by all who met and knew him”.
Mathew Chapman, aged 32, who was driving the car, died at the scene of the collision
Mr Chapman, who was originally from the Dunstable area, had been living in Pembrokeshire in recent years.
His family has issued a statement to say: “Matt is a much-loved Son, Brother, Fiancé, Grandson and friend to many.
“He was loved by all who met and knew him.
“We are all shocked and devastated, and would ask for privacy at this time to try and come to terms with what has happened.”
The family is being supported by specialist officers.
The fatal road traffic collision occurred on the A477 near the Cleddau Bridge on Tuesday afternoon, 5th September 2023. The devastating incident involved a private car and a coach from Titterington Holidays, based in Penrith, Cumbria.
According to an official press release from the Dyfed-Powys Police, the male driver of the car unfortunately succumbed to his injuries and was declared dead at the scene. Specialist officers have since informed and are supporting the
bereaved family. The coach’s driver, who sustained serious injuries in the crash, has been hospitalised and is currently in a stable condition.
The coach, carrying 24 holidaymakers from the Cumbria region, met with this accident during a five-day trip. Paul Titterington, owner of Titterington Holidays, confirmed the involvement of one of their company’s coaches. The passengers, representing a diverse age group, were immediately rushed to the hospital for medical treatment. Fortunately, all of them have been discharged following necessary care.
The collision necessitated an immediate and extensive response from emergency services. An air ambulance was dispatched to the scene to airlift the severely trapped driver. Meanwhile, fire crews from the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service worked tirelessly, not only to free the trapped motorist but also to administer first aid to the injured passengers. As a result, several passengers were transported to the hospital via road ambulances and police vehicles.
Wales’ First Minister, Mark Drakeford, expressed
his concern, stating, “It’s worrying to hear news of a major incident on the Cleddau Bridge in Pembrokeshire. My thoughts are with all those involved, and I extend my gratitude to the first responders and emergency services working at the scene.”
Hywel Dda Health Board made an urgent appeal, requesting locals to only visit the Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest for lifethreatening conditions or severe injuries. This step was taken to ensure that the medical staff could focus on providing an efficient response to the emergency at hand.
The aftermath of the accident resulted in significant traffic disruptions. The main A477 road connecting Pembroke Dock to Milford Haven was temporarily closed, causing considerable delays for commuters. Lauren Joseph, a local resident, shared her experience, recounting an hour-long, 35-mile diversion post the incident. “As I reached the bridge after aadvised a detour due to the accident. The congestion due to the crash has severely reduced the usual speed limit,” she commented.
The road has since reopened as of 4.30 am
on 6th September. DyfedPowys Police expressed their gratitude for the public’s patience during the investigative and recovery operations. They are now appealing to anyone with valuable information or witnesses of the incident to come forward and assist in their ongoing investigations.
Members of the public can contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, via email, or by calling the dedicated hotline. Those who are deaf or have speech and hearing impairments can text the non-emergency number provided.
Joyce Watson MS (Mid and West Wales) statement on the crash in Cleddau Bridge, Pembrokeshire.
Local Senedd Member Joyce Watson MS said: “I was shocked to hear about the horrendous crash on the Cleddau Bridge.
“I must thank and pay tribute to the bravery and hard work of all our emergency services, particularly the police, ambulance and air ambulance, also staff at Withybush Hospital, University Hospital of Wales and Hywel Dda University health board.
“My thoughts are with all those involved in the incident. Condolences to the family and friends of the person who lost their life.”
HUNDREDS of young women in Pembrokeshire who had provided intimate photos to boyfriends and potential suitors are learning that those same images have made their way to a social media server where hundreds of male users have been viewing them and swapping them.
Using the social media website Discord an anonymous malewho says he is from the county - has organised local men into a swap club to exchange intimate photos and videos of local women and girls on an industrial scale. The youngest is thought to be 16, and several 17 year old girls are involved
The server involves 1250 photographs and videos of 217 women and girls all said to be from Pembrokeshire
At the time of printing this article the server has now been deactivated, and the police have been informed, The Herald was told.
However screen shots of the contents of the server, and lists of the females involved are still circulating on social media. And, of course those who had access may have downloaded the entire contents in a matter of a few Minutes
The Pembrokeshire Herald has been contacted by a number of females concerned that their most intimate moments are being publicly shared. The platform was also programmed to accept requests for people looking for pictures of specifical local women.
The incident has left hundreds of women scrambling to find out if their pictures or videos have been stolen or leaked.
In one case, pictures of one girl taken by her then partner six years ago were being circulated.
Local men have been asking for certain images of individuals they are wishing to view in return for swaps with over photos.
A list of those men using the platform includes full names and also nicknames and login names. The list is lengthy.
One woman close to the situation told our reporter that she understood the matter was now being dealt with by the police.
Another posted on Facebook this week, stating: “One worried woman posted on Facebook on Wednesday this week, stating: “I
recently discovered a Discord server where men from Pembrokeshire have been soliciting and exchanging intimate photos of girls without their consent. “Disturbingly, some of these photos are of girls under 18. Fully aware of the dubious nature and illegality of their actions, these men have chosen to hide behind pseudonyms, burner accounts, and an encrypted chat. While this chat is public, it is only accessible through an invitation. Unfortunately, Discord doesn’t offer a straightforward way to trace their IP addresses, making it exceptionally challenging to identify them, even with police intervention.
The chat’s creator bragged about possessing over 1,500 photos of various girls, neatly organised into folders named after each girl’s full name. There was even a section where specific girls could be requested. Users could barter images they possessed in exchange for others. These men not only listed girls whose photos they eagerly sought but also shared intimate details about the girls. They recounted personal sexual encounters and crudely discussed their physical appearances.
“Once they realised their chat had been exposed, they mockingly referred to an informant as a ‘mole’ and hastily deleted the chat in a feeble attempt to avoid repercussions.
“Sexual crimes against women occur daily, becoming an unspoken norm in society. This is not something I can condone. The enormity of this situation is heart-wrenching, especially since it occurred within my own community. Women are not commodities. They are not faceless entities existing for someone’s twisted pleasure. They transcend their physicality, embodying roles as mothers, sisters, wives, nurses, and teachers. They are humans deserving of the same respect and empathy one would offer oneself.
“For those who might dismiss the gravity of such actions, consider the implications. These men have already displayed a willingness to engage in sex crimes, overlook consent, and dehumanise women. What then would deter
them from committing more heinous acts such as rape, abuse, grooming, harassment, or stalking? To obsessively amass 1,500 intimate photos and to diligently participate in such a chat signals a major threat to societal safety.
“These predators could be anyone: friends, brothers, or even fathers, and they continue to
escape retribution. Silence is complicity. If you have information, I implore you to come forward.”
This is clearly a huge issue affecting hundreds of local women with potentially hundreds more men involved locally. The Herald will bring you more on this developing story when we have it.
IN THE wake of an alarming 5.1% hike in UK rents in the last 12 months and a spiralling demand for homes, recent findings shed light on a concerning number of vacant properties dotted across the nation. Despite the fierce battle for housing, a surprising total of 760,821 properties remain uninhabited in England, Scotland, and Wales.
In a recent study conducted by Alan Boswell Landlord Building Insurance, the hotspots for such vacant properties have been mapped out. Pembrokeshire sadly is third in the ranking of regions with the most unoccupied homes.
Pembrokeshire boasts 4,331 empty properties for every 100,000 inhabitants, translating to a total of
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email5,346 deserted homes. The area, renowned for its captivating beauty and heritage, has seen a significant portion (74%) of its vacant properties belonging to individuals who own them as second or holiday homes. Such trends have not only prevented locals from securing a property in their hometown but have also inflated the median property price to £153,402.
Leading the list is Gwynedd in north-west Wales, recording an astounding 5,286 vacant properties per 100k residents. The surge in holiday homes in this picturesque county means a staggering 77% of these vacant homes are seldom occupied. In second place stands Argyll and
Bute, offering stunning historical vistas but housing 4,887 empty homes for every 100k people.
Though the full dataset reveals a broader issue spanning the entire country, the spotlight today is
on Pembrokeshire’s concerning position in this list. The influx of holiday homeowners has undeniably
impacted the local housing market, leaving an imprint that might require immediate attention.
THE WELSH GOVERNMENT’S newly introduced 20mph speed limit policy has come under fire following a series of conflicting statements and criticisms over its implementation and potential economic implications.
Despite the Welsh Government’s earlier claim in a press release that fire service staff would work to stop speeding motorists in 20mph areas, a subsequent statement confirmed that only the Police and GoSafe would be responsible for enforcing the speed limit. This contradicts the assertion that motorists would be offered an educational video by fire service staff as an alternative to fines or prosecution.
Welsh Conservative Shadow Transport Minister, Natasha Asghar MS, criticised the conflicting information, stating, “It does nothing more than confuse
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailmotorists already in the dark due to Labour’s failed awareness campaign.” She further highlighted the potential financial implications of the policy, asserting that it would cost the Welsh economy an estimated £4.5 billion.
Further muddying the waters, the Shadow Minister for North Wales, Darren Millar MS, said that the Labour Government must reconsider its plans for the 20mph limit, emphasising that the Welsh Government appears to lack the necessary resources to police the scheme effectively.
However, a spokesperson for the Welsh Government emphasised the role of fire officers in the educational side of the roll-out, highlighting their frequent involvement in traffic collision aftercare. They were keen to
clarify that fire officers would not be diverted from their regular duties.
Further controversies have arisen over the 20mph policy. An investigation by the Welsh Conservatives discovered instances of a Labour council removing 20mph signs outside schools before
the official roll-out of the new speed limit. Natasha Asghar MS termed the move as “reckless and irresponsible”, adding that it risks the safety of children, especially as pupils return after summer holidays.
Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies MS, called
for urgent clarification from the First Minister regarding the impact on the Welsh NHS budget, considering the financial implications of the speed limit change.
The 20mph speed limit policy, which was aimed at improving road safety, has inadvertently ignited concerns over its
financial implications, clarity of enforcement, and potential risks to child safety due to premature removal of speed limit signs outside schools. The coming weeks will determine how these issues are addressed as the policy comes into effect.
CONCERNS have been raised over transparency and openness in the wake of the closure of three wards at Withybush General Hospital due to the discovery of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) issues within its structure. The incident, which unfolded in August, prompted the evacuation of 72 patients, relocating them to South Pembrokeshire Hospital in Pembroke Dock. To accommodate the patient influx, an additional 32 beds were introduced at South Pembrokeshire Hospital, supplementing the existing 40 beds. This development has had a significant impact on the hospital staff.
Lee Davies, the Executive Director of Strategy and Planning at Hywel Dda University Health Board, expressed,
Luke Sinclair Luke@herald.email“Dealing with the RAAC situation has had a major impact on staff at Withybush Hospital, many of whom are now working at South Pembrokeshire Hospital caring for patients who require ongoing care which can be delivered outside of Withybush Hospital.” He commended the staff for their dedication during this challenging period.
The RAAC survey and repair efforts commenced in May 2023 with the objective of minimising disruptions to daily hospital operations and prioritising bed availability. However, as the extent of the RAAC issue became more apparent, Withybush Hospital faced a looming crisis as the sub-standard RAAC was at risk of collapsing without prior warning.
Currently, the full scale
of the problem remains unknown, and there is no indication of the required time for rectification. As a result, there is growing demand for Hywel Dda to adopt a more transparent approach to addressing the issue. Stephen Crabb, MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire, emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating, “The big unknown right now is just how much repair work will need to be carried out at the hospital to make it safe, how long it’s going to take, and how many millions the final cost will be.”
Crabb further urged the Welsh Government to take a more active role in managing the crisis, considering it a national issue that demands their attention. He acknowledged the commendable efforts of the Health Board and Pembrokeshire County Council in managing the crisis but stressed the importance of keeping
the public informed.
Hywel Dda has also cautioned that as time progresses, the RAAC
crisis may potentially affect services at other healthcare facilities, underscoring the
a swift and transparent resolution to the Withybush Hospital situation.
need
Wilko stores across the UK are set to close their doors, but the good news for Pembrokeshire residents is that the local Wilko stores will remain unaffected, at least for now.
On Tuesday, September 5, the announcement sent shockwaves as it revealed that 52 Wilko stores would soon cease operations. Subsequently, on Wednesday, September 6, the list of affected stores was disclosed to the staff.
Six stores and one distribution center in Wales are slated for closure, resulting in a total of 186 job losses in the region. The stores to be shut down in Wales include Cardiff Queen Street, Cardiff Bay Retail Park, Morriston, Rhyl, Port Talbot, and Llandudno. Additionally, the Magor
Luke Sinclair Luke@herald.emailDistribution Centre will also close its doors. These closures are scheduled for Tuesday, September 12 (Cardiff Bay Retail Park, Llandudno, and Port Talbot) and Thursday, September 14 (Morriston, Cardiff Queen Street, and Rhyl).
Administrators
Zelf Hussain, Jane Steer, and Edward Williams of PwC have been overseeing the process for Wilko since their appointment on August 10. They stated that discussions with potential buyers had revealed that some stores did not generate interest in the Wilko store portfolio, leading to the decision to close 52 stores nationwide, including those mentioned above.
However, there is
a glimmer of hope as B&M, has agreed to purchase 51 of the stores, although an official list has not been released yet.
Edward Williams, one of the joint administrators, expressed, “In the absence of viable offers for the whole business, very sadly store closures and redundancies of team members from those stores are now necessary, in addition to the already announced redundancies at the support center and distribution centers. We know this has been a deeply unsettling time for everyone concerned and would like to express our gratitude to all Wilko team members for the dedication and support they have continued to give the business in the most trying of circumstances.”
A MAN tragically drowned at a scenic location after plunging into a river to save two children.
The deceased, identified as 27-yearold Mohananeethan Murigaqnantharajah, was found just after 7pm on Friday, September 1, using underwater imaging at the Sgwd Y Pannwr waterfall, situated near Ystradfellte in the Brecon Beacons.
Dyfed-Powys Police were alerted at around 4.40pm after reports surfaced of a man entering the water to save two youngsters. Multiple agencies swiftly responded to the emergency.
A police representative commented, “We received a distress call from Sgwd Y Pannwr waterfall at about 4.40pm on Friday. It was reported that a man had dived into the water to aid two children but did not emerge.”
“This triggered a
multi-agency operation, drawing resources from the police, fire service, mountain rescue, HART, as well as the UK Air Rescue Team and the Wales Air Ambulance, both of which landed their aircrafts in the vicinity.”
“A little past 7pm, the fire service pinpointed the location of Mr. Murigaqnantharajah using an underwater camera. Regrettably, due to the prevailing
conditions, it was deemed too risky to retrieve the body that evening. Specialist divers were deployed the next morning for the task.”
The family of the deceased is receiving support from dedicated officers during this trying time.
Police have since confirmed that both children are safe and unharmed.
FOR NEARLy
half a century, the Torch Theatre has illuminated the arts in Pembrokeshire, consistently placing the community’s wellbeing at its core. Today, as it grapples with a substantial funding deficit, the Torch Theatre is turning to the community for support.
A significant 93% reduction in our allocation from the Pembrokeshire County Council, a repercussion of broader budget cuts, combined with the economic ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic, has resulted in a concerning £250,000 funding gap. The Torch, a registered charity, relies on the generosity of its core funders for basic operations, but the lion’s share of our resources is self-generated. Now,
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailmore than ever, we need community support to continue enriching lives.
Annually, the Torch offers a plethora of 2000 events, welcoming over 100,000 visitors. Recognised throughout Wales, we’ve been a hub for arts, an independent cinema, and an awardwinning theatre. From our inclusive Youth Theatre to our community choir Torch Voices and our support for the Welsh National Opera Cradle Choir, we’re committed to providing enriching, accessible experiences for all.s
In these challenging times, many cherished regional venues have already shut their doors. While the Torch has never before sought public assistance on this
scale, we believe in the strength of community spirit.
Contributions can take various forms – be it a single donation, regular patronage, volunteering, joining our membership, leaving a legacy, or simply enjoying what the Torch offers. For businesses, collaboration can span from sponsorships to advertising, reaching audiences across Pembrokeshire.
Supporting us extends beyond the theatre; it’s an investment in Pembrokeshire’s economy. We bolster local businesses, educational institutions, and tourism. Our commitment to over 50 local suppliers, unique employment initiatives, and contributions to the hospitality sector has solidified our role in Milford Haven.
THE ANGLE AllWeather Lifeboat crew was dispatched at 9:20pm after receiving a distress call from a 10m motorboat that had become disoriented and entangled its propeller near the Port of Pembroke. The distressed vessel managed to drop its anchor, preventing any further danger from drifting.
Responding promptly, the lifeboat journeyed up the Haven in calm conditions, swiftly reaching the troubled motorboat. After a brief assessment, the motorboat was towed to Neyland Marina and safely secured. By 10:30pm, with no further assistance needed, the lifeboat crew returned to the station and readied the boat for future emergencies.
The next day, at 12:09pm, another distress call was received by the coastguard from a 16ft Dory experiencing engine
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailfailure between Chapel Bay and the Lifeboat Station. The Port Authority patrol vessel, Water Ranger, having been nearby, provided initial support.
Upon arriving at the scene, the lifeboat crew found the Dory with two passengers and a dog. Given the vessel’s size, all occupants, including the dog, were safely transferred to the lifeboat.
The Dory was then towed towards Rudders Boatyard. As they approached the boatyard, a workboat from Rudders assisted, taking over the tow and ensuring the distressed vessel and its passengers reached the pontoon safely.
The lifeboat crew’s day didn’t end there. While near Neyland, they were redirected to another vessel drifting perilously towards Stack
Fort. Responding swiftly were a local safety boat from the nearby South Hook LNG Terminal and the Port Authority vessel Dynevor.
On arrival, the lifeboat crew discovered a vessel
with three individuals stranded on the rocks. Launching the Y boat, the crew approached to assess the situation. Having lost both their anchor and engine power, the stranded
boat’s occupants found themselves pushed ashore by the wind and outgoing tide. After a thorough assessment, all three passengers decided to abandon the boat, hoping to retrieve it
during the next high tide. They were safely escorted to the Port Authority Jetty without needing medical attention. By 3pm, the crew had readied the lifeboat for any further calls.
THE ICONIC Great British Beach Clean, orchestrated by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), celebrates its 30th year this month. From 15th to 24th September 2023, thousands of dedicated volunteers will once again comb the UK’s coastline, from Poltesco in Cornwall to Alness Point in the Scottish Highlands.
Over the past three decades, these tireless individuals have taken to the UK’s beaches, amassing vital data on the types of pollution marring our shores. Beyond the coast, MCS’s Source to Sea citizen science project has extended its reach inland. It’s widely recognised that a significant portion of marine pollution originates from the hinterlands, meandering through streams, rivers, or drains before defiling our oceans.
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailThe invaluable data accumulated has powered MCS campaigns, driving pivotal changes like the introduction of plastic bag charges, improvements in wet wipe labelling, and the implementation of taxes on single-use plastic items.
Clare Trotman, Beachwatch Officer at the Marine Conservation Society, commented on the indomitable spirit of volunteers, “From secluded beaches to bustling seaside resorts, volunteers are the heart of our initiative. If the coast is out of reach, local litter picks and surveys still make a world of difference.”
This year’s clean-up has garnered support from Ireland’s top soup brand, Cully & Sully soups. Cullen Allen, or “Cully” as he’s fondly known, expressed
his company’s deep commitment, “We’re thrilled to sponsor the Beach Clean again. Marine litter affects all of us, especially as watersport enthusiasts. This campaign not only addresses the issue but reinforces the vital message of proper waste disposal and recycling. And of course, we’re keen on serving our volunteers some hearty soup!”
Recalling last year’s
achievements, the Beach Clean saw 5,344 volunteers clear and survey 30 miles of beach, collecting an astounding 141,048 pieces of litter. Compared to 2021, 2022 observed an 11% drop in litter across UK and Channel Island beaches. Yet, one persistent pollutant remains – sewage-related waste. Disturbingly, 75% of our beaches bore traces of it in 2022, often signalling the ominous presence
of nearby sewage discharges.
Dr Laura Foster, Head of Clean Seas at MCS, highlighted the severity of the situation, “Sewage doesn’t just bring in misplaced items but carries a cocktail of detrimental chemicals. Such contamination devastates the marine ecosystem. Our volunteers’ findings will shape our ongoing quest for sewage-free seas.”
This year, the MCS requests volunteers to photograph any sewagerelated debris or outlets. By sharing these images on social media with #SewageFreeSeas or directly through their website, they aim to spotlight the extent of the sewage issue.
Interested in joining the cause? For further details or to volunteer, visit www. mcsuk.org/gbbc.
Dyfed-Powys
Police has shed light on the incident that unfolded on Freemans Way in Haverfordwest on Sunday evening, September 3. The police have confirmed that their intervention was in response to a situation involving a ‘vulnerable’ individual.
Shortly before 10pm on Sunday evening, the authorities took the precautionary measure of closing Freemans Way to all traffic. This action aimed to ensure the
Luke Sinclar Luke@herald.email
safety and well-being of the individual in question.
According to a spokesperson for DyfedPowys Police, officers were dispatched to the scene with the primary objective of assisting the vulnerable person. Fortunately, the situation was resolved without the need for further police action, and importantly, no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
The closure of Freemans Way caused a temporary disruption in the area, but it was a necessary step taken by law enforcement to handle the situation delicately and ensure the individual’s safety.
The road closure lasted for approximately an hour, with authorities reopening Freemans Way just before 11pm. This timely reopening allowed for the resumption of regular traffic flow and marked the successful resolution of the incident.
ON THURSDAy (Aug 17) New Quay RNLI launched twice in one day and saved two lives.
At 12.30pm New Quay RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was tasked by HM Coastguard Milford Haven to a mayday call with multiple people in the water off Traeth Gwyn beach in New Quay.
The volunteer crew assembled and launched with Brett Stones as helm. Brett said, “With a strong south easterly offshore wind a father and daughter had found themselves in trouble. They were rowing in their dingy but one of the oars snapped. The father then tried to tow them ashore but got very tired quickly. The mother went in to help and the alarm was raised.
“With multiple persons in the water the Coastguard asked for any boats in the area to assist and one of the dolphin trip boats had arrived first on
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailscene and was keeping one of the casualties afloat.
“We were able then to get the casualty on board and then began searching for the other casualties. We were then informed that the rest of the family had made it safely to the beach. We then took the casualty to the main pier to meet the paramedics and returned to station.”
The casualty who was plucked out of sea came back the next day to pay his thanks to Brett and said, “I can’t begin to thank everyone enough. A sobering moment indeed. I had nothing else to give to save myself and I will live with the fact I couldn’t save my daughter on my own.
“Despite being able to swim well enough I was getting nowhere. Your life really does flash before your eyes. I had told
Eirwen I loved her before I checked out, but it would seem I still held on for a while longer. Grateful to everyone who got her safely back.
“Forever grateful to everyone who helped. My faith in humanity was restored. We are frequent visitors to the area and will always be able to swap a smile with Brett.”
Later that day the pagers sounded again at 3.25pm with HM Coastguard tasking the all-weather Mersey class lifeboat to Aberaeron to a report of two casualties in difficulty on a paddleboard.
Arriving in the area of the latest reported sighting the crew began searching for the casualties. Dan Potter, New Quay RNLI’s Coxswain said, “We had the information from the informant and began a search pattern. It is extremely difficult to see casualties in the water and we were hoping they
had stayed with the board.
“We spotted one casualty as she was wearing a buoyancy aid and we got her into the lifeboat. She had been out with her sister but they had got into difficulty trying to paddle back into the strong winds.
“They had been at sea for a long time, over two hours, and had been shouting for help from the water. Luckily a walker on the coastal path had heard and raised the alarm.
“In the meantime, her sister had made it back to the beach but she was in the water luckily wearing a buoyancy aid. She was quite exhausted and very emotional as it had been a scary ordeal.
“We took her back to New Quay where the New Quay Coastguard team brought her sister to meet her. We then rehoused the lifeboat ready for service”
Roger Couch, New Quay RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager
added, “These recent shouts demonstrate the importance of always telling someone where you are going and when you will be returning, and having the right equipment – wearing a wetsuit for the cold water temperatures, always having a buoyancy aid and means for calling for help – a mobile phone or hand-held radio. Remember if you are in trouble or see someone in difficulty call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
WALES’ Economy
Minister, Vaughan Gething has welcomed the news the UK will have continued access to Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship €100 billion research and innovation programme.
The announcement by the UK Government today that the UK will become an associate country member of the programme, a move the Welsh Government had pressed for during Brexit negotiations, means Welsh scientists, universities and businesses will have continued access to the programme.
The move means organisations will be able to continue bidding for funding under the programme in the same way as EU member states.
Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe’s predecessor, has provided a platform for Welsh researchers and businesses to take part in projects worth over €2.5 billion, involving 81 countries and bringing
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailgrants worth €153 million to Wales to date.
Throughout EUUK Brexit negotiations, the Welsh Government made clear that the UK Government should negotiate full access to Horizon Europe.
Running until 2027 with a budget of around €100 billion, Horizon Europe is the largest ever transnational programme supporting research and innovation, underpinning Europe’s ambitions as a world leader.
The programme, run by the European Commission, supports vital and pioneering research, and provides a major opportunity for Wales to remain an active and influential partner internationally, increasing the nation’s attractiveness to talent, and the effectiveness of its research.
The Welsh Government
encourages Wales-based researchers and innovators to develop applications, and for organisations around Europe to take advantage of the UK’s Associate Country status in order to work with Wales’ leading scientists, businesses, public sector and civil society.
The Welsh Regional Investment Framework highlighted the need to deliver a step change in cross-border and international working, empowered by regional investment.
While the UK Government has denied the Welsh Government any access to replacement EU funds and left Wales £1.1bn short through its Shared Prosperity Fund, the Welsh Government continues to support international and crossborder working through its Agile Cymru programme.
Minister for Economy, Vaughan Gething, said: “Today’s announcement has been a long time
coming. Continued participation in EU programmes was a clear message in the Welsh Government’s priorities for the future UK/EU relationship, and we have consistently pressed for this outcome. The delay in confirming associate membership for the UK has caused unnecessary alarm in the sector, which could and should have been avoided.
“Our continued participation in the Horizon programme will give Welsh universities and businesses the opportunity to join with their peers around the world to push the boundaries of science and tackle the biggest challenges faced in Wales and globally, such as Climate Change and recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic.
Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales, Professor Jas Pal Badyal FRS said: “This flagship EU programme offers an important platform to demonstrate Wales’
position as an outwardlooking scientific nation which is committed to the highest level of research and innovation, working in close collaboration with partners across Europe and the rest of the world.
“Following today’s welcome news, I strongly encourage organisations in Wales to renew their relationships with their
international networks with a view to bidding into Horizon Europe. Our European partners can be reassured by the eligibility of UK partners and coordinators.
“Wales has unique expertise in many domains of research and innovation and there is much to be gained by working together on shared challenges.”
events, let me state quite clearly that I believe there will be, and indeed I want, a change of government following the election.
WESTMINSTER
returned from its summer recess this week with the political parties eager to try and create some momentum, especially as the next General Election will be held at some stage within the next 16 months, writes Jonathan Edwards MP.
The easiest way for party leaders to stamp their authority is to refresh their top team.
As expected, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer conducted reshuffles.
The Tory reshuffle was understated, with only minor changes caused by the decision of the Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, to stand down at the next election.
The changes within Labour offered a far more revealing insight into their party’s future direction and the terms on which Labour will govern.
The Tories quite simply have lost the plot and, in my time as a Member of Parliament, are responsible for crashing people’s living standards with a series of catastrophic decisions. The worst of those are fiscal austerity and Brexit.
They are not fit to run a bath, let alone a national executive.
They have descended into crass populism, a wrecking ball intent on destroying anything that stands in the way of its own narrow self-interest.
Voting Labour isn’t the only way to vote to bring about desired change.
Despite the simplification of broadcasters who are desperate to portray General Elections as Presidential events, the UK is a parliamentary democracy. That means Members of the House of Commons as a collective who ultimately decide who makes up the Executive and who ultimately becomes Prime Minister.
A government can survive in the UK for as long as it can defend itself from votes of no confidence, move a legislative programme
and pass a Budget in the Commons.
That is why, in my time in Parliament, I have never voted for the Tories in a vote of confidence, never supported a legislative programme as announced by the monarch, and never supported the Budget.
In the case of a Labour government, it is highly unlikely that someone like myself would vote in the same way in those three scenarios, as the consequence would be to defacto support for Tory governance.
However, the Labour reshuffle this week should leave anyone to the left politically of Tony Blair very worried.
Keir Starmer completed the purge of the shadow cabinet of those from the soft left and socialist wings of the Labour Party.
It is a team almost entirely made up of the right of the party, apart
from Angela Rayner and Ed Miliband.
The new Shadow Cabinet is far more unbalanced than Blair’s initial team, which had diverging views from all wings of the Labour Party.
The transition under Starmer goes beyond Westminster.
This brings us to matters closer to home in Carmarthenshire, where it appears elements of the Labour Party centrally have manoeuvred to take out the leading prospective candidate in favour of a self-confessed disciple of Blair.
It appears to me that “taking out” a local candidate with massive support from local members is a strange way for a Party to justify selecting a central office patsy.
I can’t imagine any other party conducting itself that way. There would be uproar, and rightly so.
It seems the programme of the next Labour government will, therefore, be based on an opposition to increasing the taxation burden on the rich, supporting privatisation of public services, supporting Brexit, and reducing regulation on the financial sector in London. Labour is dubious about a strong welfare state as a vital social safety net.
In such a scenario, Tory rule will be replaced by a Labour party pursuing a Tory agenda. In such a scenario, the Commons will need MPs prepared to challenge the government from the left instead of voting fodder MPs who blindly troop through the lobbies supporting policies that further undermine our communities.
WHEN you get to my age, you stop looking for an underlying pattern to life. Instead, events sweep you along like a cork in a stream. When the flow changes direction, so must you.
Introducing a dog, Mitzi, into our lives means my weekends are crowded with uncertainty.
I am as confident as I can be that we used to be able to go where we wanted for a walk. No spot was out of bounds.
Long stretches of Pembrokeshire’s coast and interesting paths through woods and over the hills are now out of bounds. I don’t mind missing out on some of my beloved’s favourites along the clifftops and narrow paths over steep drops.
In that respect, Mitzi is a good little doggie. Her inability to socialise with other dogs and disregard for safety means that one likely method of the missus disposing of me is off the table.
Yes, Mitzi is a good little doggie, isn’t she?
The problem is keeping Mitzi away from other canines means travelling to new andmore worryingly - isolated places. The sort of places that appear on the news and are associated with the discovery of human remains. In twenty-five years’ time, I don’t want to be on the front page of whatever remains of the press under the headline “Accountant’s Body Found. Wife Sought for Questioning”.
Besides, spending her declining years as a fugitive from justice in the Maldives being waited on hand and foot by Louis ReesZammit would be hellish for my darling one.
That’s what I
mean about being swept along by events. I didn’t choose to bring a dog into our home. One day after work, I found the wife sitting in our kitchen, the mutt at her feet.
After a short introduction, which mostly involved my beloved telling me what a good dog Mitzi is - and she is a good dog, isn’t she? -I was sent back into the evening to buy kibbles and meaty treats for our new parasite.
And Mitzi doesn’t have the temperament of a dog I’d expect the wife to get. So far, she is much less inclined to savage youths and others who peeve the missus than I would have imagined my wife wanting.
It’s been surprises all around since then.
I lay in bed on Sunday morning, half asleep and half awake. I cast a restless arm over the sleeping form beside me for a cuddle. After a few moments, my affection was reciprocated by a rough tongue dragging itself across my face. I woke with a start and stared into Mitzi’s limpid brown eyes.
It’s fair to say that I was rather more astonished than the dog, who offered me another soggy slurp across the mush.
It was very effective as a means to move me from horizontal to vertical in fewer than five seconds.
The hound fled the scene of the crime and ran to the missus. I could hear the wife’s voice from the kitchen as I worked towards full consciousness.
“Who’s a good girl, then?”
Cold dread descended on me as my racing heart slowed to a walking pace.
It’s not paranoia when they really are out to get you.
On 3rd September, Merchant Navy Day, the UK Government honoured Captain John Pearn with a Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service. This is the highest medal of honour within the maritime sector and it recognises John’s lifetime of service to marine pilotage and safety.
John joined the Port’s skilled team of pilots in 1992 and has since become an exemplary ambassador for marine pilotage. He played a key role in the safe introduction of Liquefied Natural Gas vessels to the Milford Haven Waterway and has worked tirelessly within the wider UK, European and worldwide piloting communities to improve safety. He has collaborated
Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email
with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the Department for Transport, British Ports Association and UK Harbour Masters Association, whilst also promoting safety internationally at the International Maritime Organisation. He has served as the Chairman of the UK Maritime Pilots Association, crusading for Piloting safety standards, served as Vice President of the International Maritime Pilots Association, and still holds a key role on the Pilot Ladder Safety Committee, continuing to contribute to improving safety standards.
Tom Sawyer, Chief Executive at the Port, said:
“We are unutterably
proud of John. We can think of no better way to honour his lifetime commitment to improving the industry and the lives of those who work in it. As a key part of the UK’s maritime sector, we recognise and celebrate the dedication and diligence of all seafarers that the Merchant Navy Medals honours and send our congratulations to all recipients of this year’s awards.”
John is one of 11 seafarers recognised in the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service. These awards focus on the often overlooked but nationally important work carried out by the men and women in merchant navy, and their role in ensuring the safe movement of 95% of UK trade. It’s a particularly important part of
Pembrokeshire life with so many families working within this community along the Milford Haven Waterway.
Maritime pilots are responsible for the safe
movements of vessels in pre-determined locations in accordance with the 1987 Pilotage Act. Here on the Milford Haven Waterway, except for a few cases,
pilotage is compulsory for all ships, or tug and tow combinations, of 50 metres or more in length overall, with some vessels even requiring two pilots.
AS more than 100 schools in England grapple with the closure of classrooms or the introduction of safety measures due to concerns over the structural integrity of their buildings, Pembrokeshire council has extended reassurances to parents.
This crisis stems from the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in several key facilities, prompting concerns over potential
structural hazards.
Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest made headlines recently when it declared a “major incident” after RAAC was discovered on its premises. A “limited part” of Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth was also found to have RAAC.
In a related development, the UK Government took action last week, instructing many schools and colleges near the border to either fully or partially close their buildings
due to the presence of concrete that could pose sudden collapse risks. RAAC, a building material in use from the 1950s to the mid-1990s, came under scrutiny following the collapse of a concrete beam over the summer, prompting this drastic response.
The issue of infrastructure falls under devolved powers, and the Welsh Government has announced its intention to assess the extent of the problem within the country.
Pembrokeshire
County Council has offered a glimmer of hope for parents, confirming that all schools in the region will open as scheduled after the summer holidays. They stated that “no specific issues” have been identified in the authority’s buildings.
A council spokesperson addressed the situation, saying, “Parents and guardians will be aware of media reports in England regarding concerns about Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete in schools. Pembrokeshire County Council can confirm that at this time there are no specific issues highlighted across the council’s buildings. All schools will re-open as planned after the summer holidays, and staff are looking forward to welcoming pupils back. The authority will continue working closely with the Welsh Government on this matter.”
In contrast to England’s response,
the Welsh Government has opted for a different approach since the 1960s, focusing on a comprehensive school and further education building program aimed at mitigating the risks associated with aging structures.
A Welsh Government spokesperson elaborated, “Earlier this year, we commissioned a condition survey of all state-funded schools and colleges, which will identify any structures
suspected of containing Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete. Local authorities and further education institutions have not reported to us any instances of RAAC being present within schools or colleges. We will continue to work closely with the WLGA (Welsh Local Government Association) and local authorities on this issue and will provide an update once the survey has been completed.”
IN a significant update from the Welsh Government, plans for short-term measures at the notorious Fingerpost Junction have been revealed. These measures aim to enhance safety and alleviate congestion issues plaguing the junction.
The proposed changes encompass several key elements. First and foremost, the introduction of improved signage and road markings is on the horizon. These measures are expected to enhance driver awareness and safety at the junction, where visibility has long been a concern.
Moreover, minor alterations to the junction’s layout are under consideration, with the primary goal of improving visibility for motorists. This shift in design could potentially mitigate the risk of accidents and bottlenecks at the intersection.
One notable change is the impending prohibition of U-turns at the Fingerpost Junction. This restriction aims to reduce the likelihood of collisions and traffic disruptions caused by these often-risky maneuvers.
As part of their commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the junction, the Welsh Government has outlined a period of monitoring. Following this phase, they will evaluate the feasibility
and enforcement needs of a speed restriction. Additionally, they plan to present a comprehensive business
case for the installation of traffic signals at the intersection.
The Fingerpost Junction has been a focal point of concern for local communities and activists alike. Sam
Kurtz, a vocal advocate for improvements at the junction, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of Simon Hart MP and the Cosheston Community Council.
While these short-
term measures are a step in the right direction, campaigners like Sam Kurtz continue to push for more substantial and longlasting enhancements at the Fingerpost Junction.
As discussions progress and plans evolve, the local community remains invested in achieving a safer and smoother experience for all road users at this critical intersection.
NEIGHBOURING
local authority, Carmarthenshire County Council, this week said that it was delighted to report that 100% of the electricity it purchased and used, from April 2021 to March 2022, was generated from Welsh renewable energy sources.
This is up from 63% in 2019/2020 and represents a significant milestone in the Council’s
transition to a low carbon authority.
During 2021/22, the electricity purchased and used by the authority was generated from the following sources: Biomass 1.25%, Offshore Wind 58.70%, Solar 7.65% and Wind 32.40%.
Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability said: “It is
excellent news that all of the electricity that is purchased and consumed by Carmarthenshire County Council is from renewable sources and is generated here in Wales.
“Whilst this is a huge achievement we must not rest on our laurels as this is one strand of the overall effort to decarbonise our county to create a more sustainable, greener future for children and our children’s children.”
FISHERIES and aquaculture workers in Wales are being encouraged to apply for funding to improve the health and safety aspects of their work.
The support is part of the Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme and £600,000 is being made available in this round which opens for applications today.
The Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme is a funding scheme to support environmentally and economically sustainable growth in the Welsh seafood industry and encourage Welsh coastal communities to thrive.
The aim of this Health and Safety funding round is to improve hygiene, health, safety, wellbeing and working conditions for
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailfishers and aquaculture workers in Wales.
Items which are eligible for funding under this Health and Safety round include, for example, life jackets with a personal locator beacon and life rafts.
All items must meet the specifications as set out in the Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme Health and Safety guidance document.
The maximum grant award is £10,000 and the minimum grant award is £200.
The application window will be open until 11 October 2023.
Applicants must be registered with Rural Payments Wales (RPW)
Online, where the application and claims processes can be found.
Details of the scheme guidance are on the Welsh Government’s website – www.gov. wales/marine-fisheriesgrants
Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths said: “Health and safety is paramount, and I’m pleased this funding will enable our fishers and aquaculture workers to improve this aspect of their work.
“The Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme will be important in helping our fisheries, marine and aquaculture sectors to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead of them, and see our coastal communities thrive into the future.”
RAIL disruption continues to be a real problem across the UK, with Wales trailing behind. Recent data shows that Wales has the highest cancellation rate for trains in the UK, with 20 out of 25 worst performing stations.
West Wales is highlighted as one of the worst areas affected - in the last 12 weeks, 10% of trains headed for Pembroke Dock were cancelled, 13% of trains going to Haverfordwest and an alarming 17% of those headed for Fishguard and Goodwick were cancelled. Haverfordwest station ranks among the very worst for services, coming in at 2409th out of 2616 stations nationwide, with performance ranked on punctual departures and arrivals with no cancellations. The vast majority of these services were operated by Transport for Wales.
Given its rural geography, locals and tourists alike rely heavily on train travel to and from Pembrokeshire as a means of transport. But, often the trains are being cancelled with just a few minutes
notice, with very little explanation and limited alternative travel options offered.
Mr Crabb has been an ardent campaigner for rail improvements in Pembrokeshire. Earlier this year he spoke out about the importance of retaining services west of Carmarthen following an increase in the number of trains terminating at Carmarthen rather than continuing through to Pembrokeshire destinations.
Transport for Wales (TfW), owned by Welsh Government, operates most of the local rail services across Wales.
Mr Crabb has repeatedly called on Welsh Government Minsters and TfW to address this urgently, with the TfW Chief Executive recently appearing in front of his committee at Westminster to be questioned about the matter.
Preseli
Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb commented:
“I am regularly contacted by constituents and visitors about gruelling journeys they have been forced to make due to last
minute and often illexplained train delays and cancellations, with limited alternative routes offered. For many, car travel remains the only viable option. This is not
good enough.”
“If we want Pembrokeshire to continue to be an attractive tourist destination then rail improvement and
reliability must feature at the very top of the agenda”
“West Wales railway stations remain stuck at bottom of train performance league due
to inaction from Welsh Government. There is an immediate need for Welsh Ministers to wake up and take ownership of this problem before it gets any worse.”
HyWEL Dda University Health Board (UHB), participating GP practices and community pharmacies across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire are preparing to bring forward this year’s (winter 2023/24) autumn booster COVID-19 vaccination programme.
This is in response to the announcement by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on the potential risks presented by the new BA.2.86 variant (COVID-19).
Following national guidance issued by the Joint Committee on Vaccines and Immunisation (JCVI), the following people will receive their COVID-19
vaccine first:
• residents of older adult care homes,
• individuals with severe clinical risks to COVID-19 and housebound people; and
• people aged 75 and over.
People are kindly asked to not contact the health board or their GP practice to ask about their vaccine at this time. Everyone in the high priority group above will be contacted promptly by our teams to be invited for their vaccination.
Starting on 11 September, Hywel Dda UHB and GP practices will invite people in priority order of risk and begin attending care
homes and housebound patients.
Dr Ardiana Gjini, Director of Public Health at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “We understand this announcement might generate some concern to the more clinically vulnerable members of the community.
“I’d like to reassure people that we are confident that we can meet this ask to bring our winter vaccination programme forward in response to the potential increased risks presented by the new BA.2.86 variant.
“Wherever possible, vaccinations for flu and COVID-19 will be offered to be given at the same time. However, I strongly urge the eligible people to not delay COVID-19 vaccination in order to
wait for availability of the seasonal flu vaccine.
“It is very important that eligible people receive vaccines at the earliest opportunity to prevent them developing serious illnesses and minimise complications that lead to hospitalisations during winter months.
“I’d like to thank our participating GP
practices and community pharmacies for their swift positive response and action to ensure the most vulnerable people in our communities can access their COVID-19 vaccine (and the seasonal flu vaccine, where possible) earlier than originally planned.”
Carers, pregnant women, and health and social care staff will all
be among the groups to be offered a COVID-19 and flu vaccine this winter, as well as adults aged 65 and over this autumn.
It is important that those eligible this year come forward for their vaccinations as protection fades over time, and the virus that causes flu can change from year to year.
LOCAL FUTURE
medical students from across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire are learning ‘on the job’ as part of Hywel Dda University Health Board’s ‘Becoming a Doctor’ programme.
The medical work experience initiative gives students the chance to practice simulated suturing, cannulation and to learn from different clinical scenarios.
The ‘Becoming a Doctor’ programme provides students with people-focused experiences and an insight into the realities of caring for others. It supports the development of the skills and values needed to become a doctor, such as leadership, communication, teamwork, the ability to interact with different people, as well as a realistic understanding of the physical and emotional demands of a career in medicine.
Mark Henwwood, Deputy
said: “This year, we held clinical skills and simulation workshops in our four main hospital sites, Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth, Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen, Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli, and Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest.
great opportunity with people interested in having a medical career in our local NHS. I hope it encourages and inspires them to consider the possibilities and give it a go.
MedicalDirector at the health board
“We want to raise awareness about this
Helen Thomas, Head of Medical Education & Professional Standards said:
“This year we were
really excited to launch the new ‘Becoming a Doctor’ programme across Hywel Dda. We would like to thank all those departments and colleagues that were involved with making this year’s programme such a great success. The feedback from the pupils that attended the programme has
been heartening. We will continue to build on this success, enhancing the experiences we provide to further inspire, encourage and support pupils from our local areas to embark on medical and healthcare careers within Hywel Dda.”
Our ‘Becoming a Doctor’ programme
incorporates medical school application support (which includes presentations and guidance from admissions staff from Cardiff and Swansea medical schools), clinical skills and simulation workshops, hospital/GP observation placements where appropriate.
THE first aid charity for Wales, St John Ambulance Cymru, would like to say a huge thank you to Margaret Burnett OBE for her recent donation. Margaret who is based in Pembrokeshire, recently donated a Raizer 2 Lifting Chair to the charity’s Falls and Frailty service, a vital piece of equipment worth £3000-£4000. This equipment plays an important role in the charity’s service to the people of Pembrokeshire, assisting those who have fallen and require medical attention.
When Margaret’s friend had a fall, one of St John Ambulance Cymru’s Falls Assistants Nigel was quickly on the scene to help. Nigel delivered a high quality of care and to say thank you, Margaret gifted the
organisation a Raizer 2 Lifting Chair.
This piece of equipment helps to carefully lift those who have fallen, reducing further injury. St John Ambulance Cymru’s Falls and Frailty service relies on this equipment along with its team of highly trained professionals to care for members of the community. The service works alongside the ambulance service to respond to incidents of falls; lifting pressure from the NHS and avoiding unnecessary hospital visits for many.
“We are immensely grateful for Margaret Burnett’s generous donation of a Raizer 2 lifting chair. This donation will be put to good use helping patients who have fallen and who need a safe and controlled way of
getting off the floor” said Paul Wiggins, Ambulance Business Manager at St John Ambulance Cymru.
“This donation helps highlight the great work our team are doing in support of the Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust’s falls framework.”
“Margaret’s generosity will go a long way in ensuring we can continue to support those who have called 999 having had a fall.”
Margaret’s donation will help the charity continue their lifesaving work in the community, allowing them to assist more people in need.
You can find out more about St John Ambulance Cymru’s Falls and Frailty scheme here: www.sjacymru. org.uk/en/page/fallsassistance.
IN an incident during the Saundersfoot Triathlon held on Friday, September 1, emergency services were scrambled when reports of a potentially missing swimmer reached the Coastguard. Both lifeboats from the Tenby RNLI were swiftly deployed around 8pm. Racing across two and a half miles, the teams began their search between Saundersfoot and Coppet Hall,
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email
employing binoculars and sophisticated night vision apparatus in their quest. Meanwhile, HM Coastguard Tenby initiated a parallel search on land.
The urgency of the situation saw reinforcements arrive from Burry Port Lifeboat and even a Coastguard rescue helicopter joined
the mission.
In a fortunate turn of events, word reached the teams shortly afterwards that the missing swimmer had been located safe on dry land and was then being looked after by the vigilant St John’s Ambulance team. Following the good news, all teams were instructed to stand down. The Tenby lifeboats, having completed their task, made their way back and docked by 9pm.
A PEMBROKESHIRE
Coast National Park Authority project that aims to remove and control the spread of invasive non-native species (INNS) on land around rivers recently received funding to extend its work to six further locations.
The Stitch in Time project has been targeting INNS such as Himalayan balsam in the Cwm Gwaun catchment since 2015 and has since expanded to include the Clydach and Porthgain catchments. Having demonstrated that Himalayan balsam can be controlled at scale in these locations, the project has been granted more than £170,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Nature Networks Fund, extending the project until 2025.
Project Co-ordinator, Matthew Tebbutt, who will lead and co-ordinate volunteers, community groups and contractors, staff and landowners said: “We are delighted to have secured this funding to extend the project’s impact to more areas of Pembrokeshire.
“The project will be aiming to extend and consolidate Himalayan balsam control in the selected areas, as well as controlling Japanese
Knotweed where feasible.
As well as providing the blueprint for the next stages of the project, the work completed as part of the project since 2015 has enabled the National Park Authority to create a toolkit to share the catchmentbased approach to Himalayan balsam management and the lessons learned along the way.”
The six protected areas that will be covered by the new phase of the project are: the Castlemartin Corse SSSI (Castlemartin Corse catchment) the Milford Haven Waterway SSSI (Holyland Wood and Pembroke Mill Pond), the Aberarth Carreg Wylan SSSI (Ceibwr, Moylegrove), the Preseli SAC and Cleddau Rivers SAC (Afon Wern), the Preseli SAC and North Pembrokeshire Woodlands SAC (Afon Nyfer- Crymych and Blaenffos headwaters and Brynberian subcatchment) and the North West Pembrokeshire Commons SAC and St Davids SAC (Afon Alun St Davids).
To find out more about the Stitch in Time project visit www. pembrokeshirecoast. wales/stitch-in-time.
A MORATORIUM on non-essential council expenditure is now in place as cash-strapped Pembrokeshire is on course to overspend its budget by nearly £5m this year.
Members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, meeting on September 4, will hear a report on the quarter one figures for the 202324 budget, highlighting an expected overspend of £4.8m
A budget of £287.6m was approved by council on March 2, but he projected outturn – based on the latest figures – is £292.4m.
Pressures include a projected £8.7m overspend in School
ALN provision, Children’s Services, Adult Services and Homelessness, partly offset by a projected underspend of £3.5m in Capital Financing Costs and Investment Income.
The report also highlights a bleak longer-
term picture for council finances.
The 2023-24 budget identified a potential funding gap of £33.1m over the period 2024-25 to 2026-27; with £15.9m in respect of 2024-25, to be funded from a 7.5 per cent council tax increase, and £10m of budget savings.
That is expected to
increase to £37.3m 202425 to 2026-27, and £ 46.9m up to ’28, with £20m in respect of 2024-25.
In the report, the council’s Interim Director of Resources Paul Ashley-Jones states: “The projected overspend of £4.8m for 2023-24 is very concerning.
“There is still a high degree of uncertainty around pay awards, inflation, interest rates, service demand and
Welsh Government funding which could have a further detrimental impact on this position as the year progresses.
“The majority of schools continue to set budgets that exceed the funding received in year, with school balances projected to reduce by a further £4.877m during 2023-24 to £1.005m. This is not a sustainable position and will require continual review of school staffing
structures and organisation over the medium term.
“Current levels of increased demand, complexity and cost of packages within School ALN, Children’s Services, Adult Services and Homelessness have resulted in material projected overspends in each of these areas for 2023-24 which are likely to continue into future years.
“It is critical that packages are continually reviewed to identify more cost-effective provision to pull back these overspends for 2023-24, and reduce the pressure on 202425 and the medium term financial plan.
“The overspends outlined have been partially offset by higher levels of investment income and delayed borrowing costs resulting from slippage of the 2022-23 Capital Programme.
“However, if interest rates remain at current levels, or increase, this will put further pressure on
Capital Financing costs in 2024-25 and future years. For those schemes that have not commenced, potential delay to the start on site will need to be actively considered.
“In line with the approved Budget Strategy for 2023-24 and beyond, a moratorium on all nonessential expenditure is now in place. The aim of this is to try to bring the budget back into balance by the year-end, with any use of reserves only being a last resort.”
The interim director added: “Financial pressures experienced during the first quarter of 2023-24 are going to continue into 202425 and the medium term, so there are going to be some significant financial challenges to be addressed, and difficult decisions to be made.”
Members are recommended to note the report and cost-saving works.
THE 2021 census has exposed the distressing reality of almost 1,000 overcrowded households in Pembrokeshire, comprising 1.7% of all homes in the area. While overcrowding has often been attributed to sluggish housebuilding and surging rents across England and Wales, it is now a pressing concern in this idyllic Welsh county.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) data underscores that 43,785 homes in Pembrokeshire, amounting to a staggering 78.9%, are classified as ‘underoccupied,’ indicating they possess unused rooms. The overcrowding assessment method takes into account the number of available rooms and whether they are adequate for the number of occupants.
Unsurprisingly, renters bear the brunt of this crisis, with a higher likelihood of residing in cramped conditions compared to homeowners. Social renters, in particular, grapple with a daunting 4.5% of
overcrowded housing in Pembrokeshire.
Ben Twomey, the Chief Executive of the advocacy group Generation Rent, lamented the dire situation faced by private renters. He attributed the crisis to a dearth of
housing construction and soaring rents, describing overcrowding as particularly stressful for families with children or older renters.
Alarming statistics reveal that around 530 households with dependent children in Pembrokeshire are grappling with insufficient
living space, painting a grim picture of the housing situation. Wales at large faces a stark divide, as households led by individuals of black backgrounds report an alarming 11.9% overcrowding rate, a stark contrast to the 2.2% average among the general population.
Furthermore, Muslim households are nearly seven times more likely to suffer from overcrowding.
Sam Tims, a senior economist at the New Economics Foundation, underscored the gravity of the issue, stating that every family deserves an affordable, comfortable home with access to
essential amenities. Yet, over two-thirds of houses across the country remain underutilized, forcing more than a million households to endure homes that are too small for their needs.
Tims also pointed out that a constrained welfare system exacerbates this crisis.
London emerged as the epicenter of overcrowded housing, overshadowing all other regions in England and Wales. The capital accounted for all the top 10 most crowded areas, with the exception of Slough, a London commuter town.
In a chorus of concern, both the New Economics Foundation and Generation Rent advocate for the construction of more social housing as the primary solution to address this pressing issue. The Pembrokeshire census revelations serve as a stark reminder that the housing crisis is far from over, necessitating urgent and comprehensive action to ensure that every household has access to safe and spacious living conditions.
PEMBROKESHIRE is witnessing a significant shift towards lowemission vehicles, with the latest data from the DVLA revealing a remarkable increase in registrations. This development comes against the backdrop of cities worldwide contemplating punitive measures for drivers contributing to air pollution.
In March 2023, a total of 3,920 lowemission vehicles were officially registered in Pembrokeshire. This figure represents a noteworthy rise from 2,768 in the preceding year and a mere 556 in 2018. The surge in ecofriendly vehicle adoption signifies a growing consciousness among Pembrokeshire residents about the environmental
impact of their choices.
However, this positive trend is not without its challenges. The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has highlighted a significant hurdle in the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, the most popular category of low-emission cars. The high initial purchase cost remains a deterrent for many potential buyers, despite the evident longterm cost savings due to lower operational expenses.
Simon Williams, spokesperson for the RAC, stated, “While it’s encouraging to see more Pembrokeshire residents embracing low-emission vehicles, we cannot overlook
the fact that the upfront costs of electric cars are prohibitive for many. A more comprehensive strategy, including financial incentives and infrastructure
development, is essential to accelerate the transition to greener transportation.” This shift towards low-emission vehicles in Pembrokeshire mirrors a broader global
trend where cities are increasingly considering measures to penalise polluting vehicles. By promoting cleaner transportation options, places like Pembrokeshire
are not only reducing their carbon footprint but also paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
EVER wanted to learn Welsh? Now is your chance as Learn Welsh Pembrokeshire are offering new 30 week courses for complete beginners starting this September for just £45.
Two Pembrokeshire residents who have embraced learning Welsh are Sarah Lewis from Saundersfoot and Vic Dennis from Narberth who are this year’s joint winners of the Learn Welsh PembrokeshireDysgu Cymraeg Sir Benfro Learner of the Year award.
“Sol speaks Welsh very well. She passed the Intermediate exam
last year with distinction, and she has attended a number of additional courses such as our Saturday courses as well as our Easter and Summer courses over the past few years,”said Siân Griffiths, Learn Welsh Pembrokeshire’s Manager.
In the past Sol has taken part in the Siarad scheme, enjoying and benefiting from having various conversations with Welsh speakers. Sol is a member ‘Côr Dysgu Cymraeg Sir Benfro’ and has sang at numerous public events. She attends a monthly reading group and enjoys reading in
Welsh.
Vic Dennis has attended a number of courses over the years and uses his Welsh wherever he gets the chance. He does a lot of work in his local community and is a school governor. He has been a county councillor and has promoted the Welsh language through his work.
Vic often attends Menter Iaith Sir Benfro’s coffee and chat sessions in Narberth. In May this year, he led a walk for learners around Narberth.
Vic would like to thank his tutors, Tomos Hopkins and Gaynor Watts-Lewis.
GOOD DAy, dear readers of The Pembrokeshire
Herald. It’s your old mate Stephen Seagull here, and blimey, have
I got a corker for you today. We’re diving into the choppy waters
of synthetic embryos. So, pull up a perch and let’s have a natter about this modern marvel and the moral maze it’s causing.
Now, if you haven’t heard the recent chirpings from the science world (I mean, it’s not as if it’s common gull-talk down the local chip shop), two teams of boffins have whipped up the most advanced synthetic embryos yet. These nifty little structures have gone as far as natural embryos do 14 days after fertilisation. That’s all fine and dandy for cracking the mysteries of human development, but, cor blimey, it’s ruffling a few feathers on the ethics front.
See, there’s this longstanding 14-day rule, agreed upon far and wide, that says you shouldn’t grow human
embryos in labs past two weeks. It’s a decent enough rule, stopping any dodgy dealings. But, and here’s the rub, these new lab-grown marvels aren’t technically ‘embryos’, so they slip right past this rule. That’s like saying my mate Terry isn’t pinching chips because he’s only taking the ones that fell off your plate. Tricky business, this.
From a science standpoint, it’s a right game-changer. The boffins are over the moon because these synthetic embryos might give us a peek into what happens after the mysterious 14-day mark, something they’ve been scratching their heads about for yonks.
Just imagine – answers to things like why some pregnancies go pearshaped could be on the horizon. That’s got to be a win, right?
But, there are those – and I can’t say I blame ‘em – wagging their fingers at the results. They’re having a chinwag about whether these ‘models’ are truly like 14-day natural embryos. Then you’ve got another kettle of fish
with ‘induced’ stem cells from grown-up tissues, which currently aren’t on anyone’s radar, regulation-wise. It’s like when you’re trying to figure out if the chip you’ve nicked is from yesterday’s batch or today’s.
In the middle of all this is the future of medical research, hanging in the balance like a chip precariously close to the seagull’s beak. It’s as Robin Lovell-Badge, some bigwig from the Francis Crick Institute, pondered, “Do we even need this 14-day rule anymore?”
To wrap it up, while this synthetic embryo business has more twists and turns than a seaside roller coaster, there’s no denying they’re the future. We need to find a way to give these wonders the nod without tossing our ethics out the window. As we soar into this brave new world, let’s ensure our moral compass isn’t going south.
Cheerio for now, and remember, keep your chips close, and your ethics closer. Until next time, Pembrokeshire!
Friday September 8th 2023
www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels
NESTLED within the heart of Pembrokeshire, a movement is quietly unfurling, one that speaks of unity, shared aspirations, and a dedication to local prosperity.
The concept of “shopping local” has evolved beyond its traditional definition, transforming into a compelling reminder of the strength interwoven within our communities. As global trade currents shift, there is an echoing call to rekindle our connections with neighbourhood traders, to revel in the craftsmanship found close to home, and to nurture a thriving local economy.
In a world often swayed by the allure of corporate retailers, a latent reservoir of potential resides within our local businesses. The corner grocer, the
family-owned cafe, the boutique exuding unique charm – these establishments embody the very essence of our community’s character. When we opt to invest in these businesses, we aren’t merely acquiring goods; we’re nurturing ambitions, livelihoods, and the collective spirit of our fellow townspeople.
The benefits of this mindful approach are abundant, reaching far beyond the confines of local shopfronts. At its core lies an economic upswing for our communities. Each pound spent in a local business creates ripples much like a stone dropped into a serene pond, touching the lives of all in its vicinity. These earnings flow through the local circuit, enabling entrepreneurs to expand their workforce, offer more generous remuneration, and
significantly contribute to local taxes. This virtuous cycle of prosperity yields elevated public amenities, tidier streets, and a pervasive enhancement in the quality of life for those who have propelled this transformation.
However, shopping local is more than a financial decision; it’s a proclamation of authenticity. In an age where assembly lines often overshadow individual craftsmanship, choosing a local artisan signifies a commitment to the human touch. Each product tells a story – one resonating with dedication, passion, and generations of expertise. Whether it’s an exquisitely tailored garment, an intricately handcrafted piece of furniture, or an artwork adorning a wall, these creations encapsulate the very soul of the
community, each bearing a unique narrative to be shared.
The resilience of local businesses becomes most vividly apparent during crises. While global supply chains falter, local enterprises stand steadfast, providing a lifeline for those in need. The challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic underscored this truth, as communities rallied around their local traders, safeguarding their survival through the storm. In such instances, shopping local becomes a declaration of unity,
a pledge to weather adversities by fortifying the foundation of our society.
However, let’s not misconstrue shopping local as a rejection of global commerce; it’s a harmonious interplay of choices designed to align our consumption patterns. It’s a joyous celebration of diversity, offering a diverse array of options tailored to the specific preferences and needs of our neighbours.
It embodies the saying “think globally, act locally,” reminding us that every action, regardless of its apparent scale, carries
profound repercussions. As we traverse the bustling streets of urban areas and the tranquil lanes of our Pembrokeshire towns, let’s remain mindful of our potential as consumers. Let’s recognise that each transaction serves as a ballot cast in favour of the world we yearn to witness. By endorsing local enterprises, we infuse vitality into the very heartbeat of our communities, creating a legacy characterised by resilience, authenticity, and economic vibrancy, destined to echo through generations to come.
www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels
NORTH Beach in Tenby bore witness to a gruelling spectacle on Sunday (3rd September) as over 3,000 determined athletes embarked on the Ironman Wales triathlon, considered one of the most punishing endurance events on Earth. Spectators, bathed in the early-morning sun, turned out in full force to cheer on these extraordinary competitors.
The Ironman Wales challenge entails a superhuman trifecta: a daunting 2.4-mile sea swim, a gruelling 112-mile bike ride through the hilly terrain of Pembrokeshire, and a full marathon, all to be completed within a formidable 17-hour window. While the Tenby course is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, it is equally infamous for its punishing hills, capable of breaking even the most seasoned athletes.
Yet, what truly sets Ironman Wales apart is not the challenging course or the scenic backdrop but the unwavering support of the local community. The event has played a pivotal role in transforming Tenby from a former stage for raucous hen parties to a global athletic destination. (Read our special report on this transformation.)
Unfortunately, the day saw an early setback when former Wales rugby international, Alix Popham, was forced to withdraw from the competition due to a suspected concussion. Popham suffered a head injury during the sea swim, leaving him disoriented and
unable to recognise his wife, Mel. Lobby group Progressive Rugby later confirmed his hospitalisation, citing his deteriorating condition.
A tweet from the group stated: “Alix was unable to recognise wife Mel as he came out of the water. Although dizzy and suffering a headache, he appeared ok but his condition has deteriorated and he is currently being transferred by ambulance to hospital. Updates posted with permission.”
In a triumphant finale, Nikki Bartlett emerged as the victor in the female category, while Alexander Milne clinched the top spot in the male category. Both athletes exhibited exceptional endurance and determination.
The Ironman Wales spectacle not only pushes the boundaries of human athleticism but also spotlights the charm of Tenby. While more than 90% of the participants hail from the local community, competitors from countries including Germany, Switzerland, and France also joined the fray, adding an international flavor to the event.
Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, expressed his pride in welcoming the Ironman athletes to Pembrokeshire. He stated, “IRONMAN is hugely popular here amongst both contestants and
spectators, and we are very proud that our county provides such a spectacular and challenging backdrop to the event, as well as some of the most enthusiastic IRONMAN supporters in the world.”
With its rugged coastline,
charming seaside resorts, scenic countryside trails, and rich heritage, Pembrokeshire stands as an ideal host for this remarkable event, leaving an indelible mark on both competitors and spectators alike.
EX-WALES rugby star, Alix Popham, had to bow out of Ironman Wales in Tenby due to a suspected concussion sustained from an accidental kick to the head during the swim segment.
The 43-year-old former rugby sensation, who had diligently trained for the triathlon for several months, was participating in aid of Head for Change. This noble foundation advocates for proactive measures to ensure brain health in sports and offers support to former athletes grappling with neurodegenerative diseases.
Popham’s illustrious career saw him earn 33 caps between 2003 and 2008, with two World Cup appearances. Tragically, at just 40, he was diagnosed with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy.
Tragedy struck again on Sunday. After embarking on the race with other ex-Wales teammates, Popham had to make the heartbreaking decision to pull out after the unfortunate incident during the swim.
Progressive Rugby, a lobby group, swiftly took to Twitter at 10:21am, sharing: “Devastating news. A heart-wrenching irony.
Despite training rigorously to champion concussion awareness and support, Alix has had to exit due to a suspected concussion from an inadvertent kick during the swim. Our deepest sympathies are with him.” This came mere moments after Popham, along with 2,000 other participants, set out from Tenby’s North Beach to face one of the most gruelling endurance challenges known.
Earlier that morning, at 9:37am, Progressive Rugby had cheered: “They’re underway! Sending best wishes to our
very own Alix Popham and Ian Gough as they tackle the Ironman in Tenby. They’re joined by an amazing team supporting Head for Change, including Shane Williams and actor Mark Lewis Jones. All the best to the team!”
The formidable Tenby course, celebrated for its sheer difficulty and breathtaking scenery, consists of a 2.4-mile sea swim, a challenging 112mile bike ride through hilly terrain, and a full marathon. Athletes have a 17-hour window to complete this Herculean task.
family heritage, this mindpopping show is rich in colour, infectious passion, and wicked humour.
The show, is described by The Scotsman, as “technical excellence and irresistible charm… devilishly clever” and “eye-boggling. His sleight of hand is extraordinary” by Time Out. It is a show that sees that Ben Hart has an unparalleled reputation for making extraordinary works of magic and is a must see here on the Torch stage.
Prepare yourselves to be totally amazed as the world-renowned, multi award-winning magician and West-End star Ben Hart visits the Torch Theatre in his most personal show yet. This October, in his show called Jadoo, Hart will shed his usual
sleight-of hand trickery and lies in favour of stunning displays of wonderment, mysticism, extrasensory power, and a search for the truth...
Drawn from his experience of travelling India to discover lost, real magic, and rooted in his
Ben is no ordinary magician. He is a member of The Inner Magic Circle (the highest position at The Magic Circle) and has collaborated with and designed magic for the RSC, Penn and Teller, Mission Impossible 7, and Mischief Theatre to name but a few. His work has been seen on television including his own series for the BBC and on Britain’s Got Talent (finalist), AGT The Champions, The One Show, and hundreds of other TV appearances around the world.
Don’t miss this chance to catch the world’s foremost magic storyteller in this all-new show, here at the Torch Theatre.
Reverend Richard Coles is the only British vicar to have had a number-one hit single and to have appeared as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing - a claim which seems unlikely to be matched any time soon. He is also a Sunday Times bestselling author, Twitter phenomenon and enormously loved broadcaster.
Sex, drugs, pop stardom, religious epiphany; love, a dream job, and the madness of grief. Some or all of this may come out as Richard lifts the lid on a life truly and truthfully lived.
An intimate evening with a unique national treasure embarking on a first full national tour because he’s done pretty much everything else a person can do.
From 15 September to 28 September, the Joanna Field Gallery at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven will be exhibiting art works by pupils from Milford Haven Comprehensive School. This will be their fifth exhibition at the Torch.
The exhibition will see 43 pupils, aged 15 to 16, who undertook GCSE Art last summer taking part. Previously, the exhibition was held at the Milford Haven Town Hall before being relocated to the Torch.
“The exhibition is a celebration of art work created by the pupils in their final year and a chance for the local community to be able to see what they have achieved,” explained Katie George, the Art Technician at Milford Haven Comprehensive
School, who is supported by Mr Chris Green, the Art Teacher.
Katie added: “This will be the ninth exhibition the school has arranged. We started off in Milford Town Hall and then were very excited to be able to show our annual art event in the Torch. This will be the fifth year showing in the Torch, which has been really fantastic as it gives us a chance to show the work of the pupils in a professional setting, and also in a central place that is easy to access and very pleasant to visit.”
Getting this exhibition under way is no mean feat and the pupils have spent a great deal of time and effort completing their masterpieces. They are encouraged to use as many different materials as possible ranging from
painting in watercolours and acrylics, printing, sculpture, collage, clay work, printing and many more.
“The pupils work on their individual investigations. They pick a theme of their choice and then work through with artist research that connects to their theme. They then follow with lots of experimentation using different media and materials also painting, drawing and sketching. They then have their two-day exam, which they have spent time planning for using all the skills and materials they have now become familiar with to produce a final piece that will be shown in the exhibition,” explained Katie.
“It’s always exciting to tell the pupils that their final pieces will be on show in an exhibition in
The Torch and generally they are excited for that to happen. They are so busy trying out new materials and ideas during their lessons, that they don’t really think about the exhibition itself until they are invited to see their work at the Torch. When they come with their parents or friends, it’s usually a real ‘Feel Good Factor’ of achievement, which is always great to see. The whole ambiance and setting created at the Torch is perfect!” concluded Katie.
The Exhibition by pupils from Milford Haven Comprehensive School will be displayed from Friday 15 September to Thursday 28 September at the Joanna Field Gallery, Torch Theatre and open to view during Torch Theatre opening hours.
6.15 Homes Under the Hammer. (R) 7.15 Money for Nothing. (R)
8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics UK. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R)
2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.00 The Wonder of Animals. (R) 3.30 Back in Time for the Factory. (R) 4.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00 Flog It!
(R)
Brendan O’Carroll
Mrs Brown’s Boys
BBC1, 9.30pm
Brendan O’Carroll recently revealed that he has two new comedy ideas in the pipeline. Whether or not one or either will get off the ground remains to be seen. In the meantime, his most famous creation, Agnes Brown, is back for a new run tonight, with the matriarch feeling down in the dumps. Granddad’s bowel movements aren’t helping matters, while the house is a mess.
6.30
7.00 The One Show. With Alex Jones and Lauren Laverne.
7.30 Kiri’s TV Flashback. Funny clips revealing Wales pet hates and irritations. (R)
8.00 Question of Sport. A look back at highlights of the past 12 months.
8.30 Our Lives: Our Sea Forest. A man’s efforts to restore a kelp forest off the Sussex coast.
9.00 Celebrity MasterChef. The three finalists must cook and present a three-course meal. Last in the series.
9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. 10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop.
11.10 Starstruck. (R)
11.30 Starstruck. (R)
11.55 Film: Relic. (2020) Premiere. Mystery horror, with Emily Mortimer.
1.20 BBC News.
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Jen Brister, Kelvin Fletcher, Ian Moore and Zoe Williams take part. (R)
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. The chef learns about traditional Sussex cattle.
7.00 Athletics: Diamond League Brussels. The Memorial Van Damme.
9.00 Gardeners’ World. Monty Don plants bulbs in pots, including hyacinths and daffodils.
10.00 Red Dwarf. Lister sits the chef’s exam. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.00 Weather.
11.05 No Activity. (R)
11.30 ODI Cricket Highlights. England v New Zealand.
12.30 Murder Trial: The Disappearance of Renee and Andrew MacRae. (R) 1.30 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. (R) 2.30 Sign Zone:
Teenage Vaping: What’s the Harm?
– Panorama. (R) 3.00 Couples Therapy. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.
6.45 Hey Duggee. (R) 7.00
Supertato. (R) 7.05 Shaun the Sheep. (R) 7.15 Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed! (R) 7.25 Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese. (R) 7.40 The Deep. (R) 8.00 The Dengineers. (R)
8.30 One Zoo Three. (R) 8.50 Newsround. 9.00 Blue Peter. (R)
9.30 Deadly 60. (R) 10.00 Britain’s Secret Seas. (R) 11.00 Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. (R)
12.00 Britain’s Top Takeaways. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Lingo. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.15 ITV Evening News; Weather.
6.45 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. France v New Zealand (Kick-off 8.15pm). Mark Pougatch presents all the action from the opening match of the tournament, as the Pool A rivals meet at Stade de France in Paris.
10.35 ITV News; Weather.
11.10 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
11.25 Film: The Queen. (2006) Fact-based drama about how the royal family and Tony Blair dealt with the aftermath of the death of Princess Diana. Starring an Oscarwinning Helen Mirren, with Michael Sheen.
1.05 The NFL Show. Including action from Kansas City Chiefs v Detroit Lions. 1.55 All Elite Wrestling: Collision. Hard-hitting action from AEW’s newest show, featuring stars including CM Punk, FTR, The House of Black, Thunder Rosa, Miro, and more. (R) 3.35 Cooking with the Stars. (R) 4.25 Unwind. 5.05 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. With Claire Richards and Ben Miller. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion
S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30
Heno Aur. (R) 1.00 Ar Werth. (R)
1.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 2.00
Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion
S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Grand Prix Speedway Caerdydd. (R) 4.00 Awr
Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R)
6.00 Dan Do.
6.15 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. News and weather.
6.45 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023. France v New Zealand (Kickoff 8.15pm).
10.25 Seiclo: Vuelta a Espana.
11.00 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd Shane ac Ieuan. (R)
12.05 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown.
Cheers. (R) 7.35
Loves Raymond.
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine.
Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: Cradle Did Fall. (2021) 4.00
The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian explores the spectacular peaks of north Wales. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Aldi: Secrets of the Billion Dollar Discounter. A look at how the German supermarket has succeeded in the UK. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Puppy School for Guide Dogs. Cameras reveal how Ela and her pups are getting on. Puppy midwife Tim is keeping an eye on Ela’s weight loss, but the youngsters are thriving.
9.00 Jane McDonald: Lost in Japan. The presenter explores Kyoto.
10.00 Million Pound Motorhomes. Debbie McGee and her sister Donna take a trip down memory lane. (R) 11.05
6.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 6.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 8.20 ITV News.
8.25 Oti Mabuse’s Breakfast Show.
9.25 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. 11.20 ITV News; Weather. 11.30 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Italy v Namibia (Kick-off
6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Siwrne Ni. 8.05 Dyffryn Mwmin. (R) 8.25 Byd Rwtsh Dai Potsh. (R) 8.35 Lego DREAMZzz. (R) 8.55 Cath-Od. (R) 9.10 Rhyfeddodau Chwilengoch a Cath Ddu. (R) 9.35 Gwrach y Rhibyn. (R) 10.00 Ty am Ddim. (R) 11.00
6.00 Milkshake! 9.55 The Smurfs. (R) 10.10 SpongeBob
SquarePants. (R) 10.25
Entertainment News. 10.35
Friends. (R) 12.35 Bargain-Loving
Brits in the Sun. (R) 3.30 Cruising the Nordics with Jane McDonald.
BBC Proms: Last Night of the Proms
BBC1, 9pm
Katie Derham introduces the conclusion of the closing concert, joined by Sandi Toksvig and Danielle de Niese. Cellist Sheku KannehMason and soprano Lise Davidsen perform a variety of music from ColeridgeTaylor's Deep River and an aria by Kalman, to Villa Lobos' Bachianas
Brasilieras and the score from forthcoming superhero movie The Marvels.
6.30
Ranganathan quizzes Gareth Malone, Brian McFadden, Sam Thompson, Sindhu Vee, Desiree Burch, Lee Mead, Kiri Pritchard-McLean and Lauren Steadman to win £50,000 for charity. (R)
7.20 Pointless Celebrities. Antony Costa, Megan McKenna. Natasha Raskin Sharp, Danny Sebastian, Ruby Bhogal, Shelina Permalloo, Jan Ravens and Alfie Brown compete in the general knowledge quiz.
8.10 Casualty.
9.00 BBC Proms: Last Night of the Proms. Katie Derham introduces the conclusion of the closing concert, joined by Sandi Toksvig and Danielle de Niese.
10.10 BBC News; Weather.
10.30 Film: Dunkirk. (2017) Drama, starring Kenneth Branagh.
1.00 Rowing World Championships 2023. Live coverage from Belgrade. 2.45
Film: The Lady Vanishes. (1938)
4.20 The Frozen North: Our Wild Adventures. (R) 5.20 Richard Osman’s House of Games. (R) 5.50 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden.
6.20 Nigel Slater’s Simple Cooking. (R)
6.30 Wynne’s Welsh 70s. (R)
7.00 BBC Proms: Last Night of the Proms. Coverage of the closing concert.
9.00 Later... with Jools Holland: Amy Winehouse.
9.35 Arena: Amy Winehouse –The Day She Came to Dingle. The singersongwriter’s appearance on Irish TV show Other Voices in 2006. (R)
10.35 Amy Winehouse at Portchester Hall – BBC Sessions. (R)
11.25 Reclaiming Amy. (R)
12.25 Women’s International ODI.
12.00pm). 2.00 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Ireland v Romania (Kickoff 2.30pm). 4.45 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Australia v Georgia (Kick-off 5.00pm).
7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. England v Argentina (Kick-off 8.00pm). All the action from the first match in Pool D, held at Stade de Marseille in France.
10.25 Bali 2002. New series. Two large explosions rip through packed nightclubs in Bali in Indonesia in 2002, leaving many dead and many more injured. Fact-based drama, starring Claudia Jessie.
11.25 ITV News; Weather.
11.45 Gordon, Gino & Fred: Viva Espana! Gordon Ramsay, Gino D’Acampo and Fred Sirieix head to Galicia in north-west Spain, starting with a search for shellfish in Cambados with some truly inspirational women. (R)
12.45 English Football League Highlights. Action from the latest fixtures. (R) 1.45 The Chase. Quiz show, hosted by Bradley Walsh. (R) 2.40 Tipping Point. (R)
Adre. (R) 11.30 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.00 Ffermio. (R) 12.30 Y ’Sgubor Flodau. (R)
1.30 Cynefin. (R) 2.30 Dau Gi Bach. (R) 3.00 Garddio a Mwy. (R)
3.30 Yn y Fan a’r Lle. (R) 4.00 Sain Ffagan. (R) 4.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 5.00 Sgorio. Bala Town v Queen’s Park (Kick-off 5.15pm).
7.20 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.
7.30 Am Dro! Featuring a coastal walk from Penarth to Sully. (R)
8.30 Priodas Pum Mil. (R)
9.30 Anfamol. (R)
10.00 Seiclo: Vuelta a Espana.
10.30 Clasuron Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd.
12.05 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 The King of Queens. (R) 6.55 Cheers. (R) 7.50 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R)
9.20 The Simpsons. (R) 12.10
Jamie’s £1 Wonders. (R) 1.10 Four in a Bed. (R) 3.45 Channel 4 News.
4.00 Live England International Football. 7.45 Film: Skyscraper. (2018) 9.45 Gogglebox. 10.15 England International Football.
11.15 Film: Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In. (2021) 1.25
(R) 5.00 When Holidays Go Horribly Wrong. (R) 6.25 5 News Weekend.
6.30 Growing Up Royal: The King’s Grandchildren. Documentary examining the lives of the royal grandchildren, looking at how the King and Queen might navigate the complex dynamics of this very modern family. (R)
8.00 Harry & Meghan: Has America Turned Against Them? A look at whether the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s popularity in the United States is on the wane amid heavy criticism and parody that has been levelled at them in recent weeks. (R)
9.00 Roddy & Margaret: The Affair that Shook the Royals.
10.00 Film: The Holiday. (2006) Romantic comedy, starring Cameron Diaz.
12.40 Criminals: Caught on
Camera. (R) 1.00 PlayOJO Live
Casino Show. 3.00 Entertainment
News. 3.15 Friends. (R) 4.05 Get Your Tatts Out: Kavos
Job (2003) Crime thriller remake, starring Mark Wahlberg. 9.00 Celebrity Gogglebox 10.00 Gogglebox Film4
1.30 Weather for the Week Ahead.
12.10 Film: 47 Meters Down: Uncaged. (2019)
1.35 BBC News.
12.55 Film: Master Cheng. (2019)
2.50 Sign Zone: The Woman in the Wall. (R) 3.50 This Is BBC Two.
3.30 Bali 2002. (R) 4.20 Unwind.
5.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 2.15 Film: Songbird. (2020) 3.45 Hollyoaks Omnibus. (R) 5.50-6.15 Beat the Chef. (R)
2.55 Napoleon Dynamite (2004) 4.55 Mother’s Day (2016) 7.10 Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey (1991) Comedy sequel, starring Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter. 9.00 White House Down (2013) Action thriller, with Channing Tatum and Jamie Foxx. 11.40 War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
6.00 Breakfast. 9.00 Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg. 10.00 Great North Run 2023. Live coverage of the world’s biggest half-marathon.
2.00 BBC News. 2.10 Weather for the Week Ahead.
2.15 Songs of Praise. 2.50 Points of View. 3.05
Weatherman Walking. (R) 3.35
Pizza Boys: World Cup Adventure. (R) 4.05 Escape to the Country. (R)
4.45 Garden Rescue. (R) 5.15
Film: Wallace & Gromit in The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. (2005)
6.35 BBC News.
6.50 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
Jamie Cooks the Mediterranean Channel 4, 8pm
Jamie Oliver travels the Mediterranean in search of traditional and innovative recipes. In the first episode, he visits Greece, from In the first episode, he explores Greece, from the bustling university city of Thessaloniki to a farm on the island of Skopelos. He cooks up a smoky aubergine flatbread and spatchcocked lemony chargrilled chicken.
7.00 Countryfile. Sammi Kinghorn returns to Cumbria to find out how young shepherdess Katie is doing now that she’s finished school for the year, and examines her work on increasing biodiversity.
8.00 Antiques Roadshow. Fiona Bruce presents the show from Crystal Palace Park in south-east London, joined by cartoonist Ralph Steadman.
9.00 The Woman in the Wall. Aoife’s body is missing and Lorna is devastated by the news of the death of her child. She takes matters into her own hands and heads back to the convent.
10.00 BBC News; Weather.
10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.30 Film: The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. (1994) Comedy, starring Terence Stamp.
12.10 Weather for the Week Ahead.
12.15 BBC News.
6.05 Glorious Gardens from Above.
(R) 6.50 Dame Judi Dench Countryfile Special. (R) 7.45
Gardeners’ World. (R) 8.45 Beechgrove Garden. (R) 9.15 Life in a Cottage Garden with Carol Klein. (R) 9.45 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites. 11.15 Mary Berry’s Quick Cooking. (R) 11.45 Rick Stein’s Seafood Odyssey. (R) 12.15
Film: The Big Country. (1958) 3.00
This Farming Life. (R) 4.00 Rowing World Championships Highlights.
5.00 Great North Run Highlights.
6.00 A Special School. Thieves break into the school and take valuable watersport equipment. (R)
6.30 Green Space, Dark Skies: Wales. A mass artistic participation project from Parys Mountain on Anglesey. (R)
7.00 ODI Cricket Highlights. England v New Zealand.
8.00 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder visit the Phinda Game Reserve in South Africa.
9.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
9.30 The Fast Show. (R)
10.00 Louis Theroux: Mothers on the Edge. (R)
11.00 The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan. (R)
12.00 Film: The Evil Dead. (1982)
1.25 Sign Zone: Claimed and Shamed. (R) 2.10 Henpocalypse!
6.00 James Martin’s American Adventure. (R) 6.25 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. (R)
8.20 ITV News. 8.25 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. 9.25 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R)
11.25 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Japan v Chile (Kick-off 12.00pm).
2.20 ITV News; Weather. 2.35 Catchphrase. (R) 3.20 You’ve Been Framed! (R) 3.55 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. South Africa v Scotland (Kick-off 4.45pm).
7.00 ITV News; Weather.
7.05 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Wales v Fiji (Kick-off 8.00pm). All the action from the opening Pool C match for both teams, held at Stade de Bordeaux in France.
10.25 ITV News; Weather.
10.45 Waco Untold: The British Stories. Part two of two. A look at how the siege ended as a deadly fire raged at the group’s compound, as well as the profound influence that Waco still has today.
11.45 The National Television Awards 2023. Joel Dommett hosts the 28th edition of the ceremony, as stars and fans gather for one of the biggest nights in British TV, broadcast from The O2 in London. (R)
6.00 Cyw.
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.50 The Smurfs. (R) 10.05 SpongeBob SquarePants. (R) 10.20
Entertainment News. 10.30
BBC Four
7.00 Andre Previn at the BBC 8.00 Unmissable Moments: Proms 2023
a’r Goeden Faled. (R) 3.30 Arfordir Cymru: Llyn. (R)
4.00 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) 4.25 Ffermio. (R) 4.55 Gwyl y Dyn Gwyrdd 2023. (R) 5.50 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R)
7.00 Newyddion a Chwaraeon. Weekend news and sport.
7.15 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd. Wales v Fiji (Kick-off 8.00pm). All the action from the opening Pool C match for both teams, held at Stade de Bordeaux in France.
10.30 Seiclo: Vuelta a Espana.
11.00 Rygbi Cymru: Y Gêm yn y Gwaed. (R)
12.05 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.15 Cheers. (R) 7.35
The King of Queens. (R) 8.30 Bake
Off: The Professionals – The Final. (R) 9.30 Sunday Brunch. 12.30
Live Betfred Super League Rugby.
3.00 The Secret Life of the Zoo.
3.30 The Dog House. (R) 4.20
Film: Wonder. (2017) 6.30 Channel 4 News. 7.00 The Secret World of Chocolate. (R) 8.00 Jamie Cooks the Mediterranean. 9.00 Alone: The Final. 10.00 Gogglebox. (R) 12.00
NFL End Zone. 11.00 Friends. (R) 12.55 Norfolk and Suffolk: Country & Coast. (R) 1.55 Film: My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2. (2016) 3.45 Film: Miss Congeniality. (2000)
6.00 5 News Weekend.
6.05 Britain’s Favourite Ads of the 70s & 80s. A celebration of most memorable, impressive, funny and sometimes shocking British TV adverts, with commentary on how the ads were made and their social context.
8.00 Hotel Benidorm: Fun Loving Brits in the Sun. New series. Return of the documentary following life in the Spanish resort.
9.00 The Day The Queen Died: Minute by Minute. Recounting the events of September 8, 2022.
10.30 When Holidays Go Horribly Wrong.
11.55 Coastguard: Search & Rescue SOS. (R)
9.35 Holst and Vaughan Williams: Making Music English 10.35 The Shock of the New ITV2
My Mum, Your Dad ITV, 9pm
Davina McCall is arguably the only presenter in the world who could singlehandedly help audiences cope with the avalanche of emotions this 10-part dating show is bound to stir up. It follows single parents from across the country and all walks of life, as they live together at a stunning country house retreat, hoping Cupid’s arrow will strike.
8.30
Dark Side of Ballet Schools- Panorama. Current affairs report. (R)
9.00 Who Do You Think You Are? Boy George traces the story of his maternal grandmother. (R)
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Match of the Day Wales. Latvia v Wales.
11.10 Question of Sport. (R)
11.40 The Hit List. Marvin and Rochelle Humes host a Strictly Come Dancing special. (R)
12.25 BBC News.
(R)
2.40 The Following Events Are Based on a Pack of Lies. (R) 3.40 This Is BBC Two.
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 8.00
Sign Zone: This Farming Life.
(R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.
10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics Live. 1.00 Impossible.
(R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R) 2.15
Murder, Mystery and My Family.
(R) 3.00 The Wonder of Animals.
(R) 3.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 4.00 Who Do You Think You Are? (R) 5.00 Flog It!
(R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Babatunde Aleshe, Richie Anderson, Jo Caulfield and Carol Smillie.
(R)
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden.
7.00 Chris and Meg’s Wild Summer. (R)
7.30 Mastermind.
8.00 Only Connect.
8.30 University Challenge.
9.00 Laura Kuenssberg: State of Chaos. New series. A look at whether UK politics has been stretched to breaking point.
10.00 The Royle Family. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Film: What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962) Drama, starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford.
1.25 Sign Zone: Dame Judi Dench Countryfile Special. (R) 2.20
Celebrity MasterChef. (R) 3.20 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (R) 3.50 This Is BBC
Two.
2.10 English Football League Highlights. (R) 3.00 Motorsport UK. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55
ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Lydia struggles in the aftermath of her ordeal, a grieving Claudette admits that she needed Charles’ support, and Gabby insists on selling up.
8.00 Coronation Street. A row with Stu lands Eliza in hospital, Amy resists Dev’s matchmaking attempt, DeeDee fails to twig Joel’s real motive, and Roy tackles Lauren’s accommodation problem.
9.00 My Mum, Your Dad. New series. Dating show hosted by Davina McCall, which follows eight single parents who have been nominated by their grown-up children for a second chance at love.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 Sharp End.
11.40 My Mum, Your Dad. (R)
12.30 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite. (R) 2.10 Tipping Point. (R)
3.00 Tenable. (R) 3.50 Unwind.
5.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
Film: Parasite. (2019) 2.20 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.05 Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.10-6.05
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Adre. (R)
12.30 Heno Aur. (R) 1.00 Ceffylau Cymru. (R) 1.30 Pen/Campwyr. (R)
2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley.
12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime. 1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15 Film: Secrets By the Shore. (2022) 4.00 BargainLoving Brits in the Sun. 5.00
5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian visits Shakespeare Country. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. An urgent call leads to a multivehicle pursuit to rescue a child. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Police Interceptors. Rich and Ash are on the trail of a potentially armed and dangerous man; 5 News Update.
5.00 Four in a Bed. (R) 5.30 Come Dine with Me. (R) 6.00 Hollyoaks. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 A Cotswold Farmshop. 9.00 Top Guns: Inside the RAF. 10.00 Bear Grylls Meets President Zelenskyy. (R) 11.05 24 Hours in A&E. (R) 12.05 The Queens that Changed the World.
1.00 The Duchess and Her Magical Kingdom. (R) 1.55 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 2.45 Screw. (R)
3.40 Grand Designs. (R) 4.30 Location, Location, Location. (R) 5.25 Beat the Chef. (R) 5.506.05 Kirstie’s Fill Your House for Free. (R)
9.00 The Inheritance. As Dennis’s death becomes the subject of an official police investigation, the siblings hunt for their father’s previous will, trying desperately to prove his original intentions.
Red. (R)
1.00 Live NFL: Monday Night Football. New York Jets v Buffalo
6.00 Breakfast. 9.15 Morning Live. 10.00 Critical Incident. (R) 10.45
Expert Witness. (R) 11.15 Homes
Under the Hammer. 12.15 Bargain
Hunt. (R) 1.00 BBC News at One;
Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today;
Weather. 1.45 Doctors. 2.15
Money for Nothing. (R) 3.00
Escape to the Country. (R) 3.45
Garden Rescue. 4.30 The Finish
Line. 5.15 Pointless.
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
7.00 The One Show. Live magazine show, hosted by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp.
Nina Sosanya
Screw Channel 4, 9pm
The future of C Wing hangs in the balance as the prisons minister visits, and Leigh tries to keep a lid on things after the discovery of the undercover police officer. As a deadly hostage situation develops, Leigh and Rose endeavour to save themselves and the future of the wing. Drama, starring Jamie-Lee O'Donnell, Ben Tavassoli, Nina Sosanya and Ron Donachie.
7.30 EastEnders. Sharon gets an intriguing opportunity.
8.00 Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. Stacey Solomon and her crack team, plus special guest Mrs Hinch, help farmers Andy and Lianne and their three children transform their farmhouse through a lifechanging declutter.
9.00 Ambulance. A busy weekend night shift across Lancashire sees advanced paramedic Shaun dispatched to a baby born in the passenger seat of a car.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Dark Land: Hunting the Killers. (R)
11.20 Film: Captain Phillips. (2013) Fact-based thriller, starring Tom Hanks.
1.25 BBC News.
6.30 Money for Nothing. (R) 7.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: Coastal Defenders. (R) 9.00
Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News.
12.15 Politics Live. 1.00
Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R)
2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.00 The Wonder of Animals. (R) 3.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 4.00 Who Do You Think You Are? (R) 5.00 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Babatunde Aleshe, Richie Anderson, Jo Caulfield and Carol Smillie take part. (R)
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden.
7.00 The Warship: Tour of Duty. The story of HMS Queen Elizabeth’s first operational mission. (R)
8.00 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. The chef assesses two restaurants looking to expand their businesses.
9.00 Helping Our Teens. Part two of two.
10.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather. 11.15 Women’s ODI Cricket. 11.45 Ultimate Wedding Planner. (R)
12.45 Coastal Defenders. (R)
1.45 Sign Zone: Clean It, Fix It. (R)
2.30 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. (R) 3.30 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women and Men.
1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Cathy takes her anger out on her family, Bob feels a twinge in his chest, and Chloe is thrilled when Mack suggests going on a date.
8.30 Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs. Paul meets dogs still struggling to find a home. (R)
9.00 My Mum, Your Dad. Sparks fly between one of the couples with one person becoming emotional when she sees a different side to her mum. Davina McCall hosts.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 Love Your Garden. Alan and the team surprise a Second World War veteran with a garden transformation.
7.00
Death Valley with Nick Knowles. Nick visits the ghost town of Rhyolite.
8.00 Puzzling with Lucy Worsley: The Final. Contestants attempt to become the ultimate puzzler. Last in the series; 5 News Update. 9.00
6.30 Escape to the Country. (R)
7.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00
Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News.
12.15 Politics UK. 1.00 Impossible.
(R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family.
(R) 3.00 The Wonder of Animals.
Coco Chanel
Coco Chanel Unbuttoned
BBC2, 9pm
During her time at the top of the fashion world, Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel was one of the most famous and glamorous women on the planet; even now, more than 50 years after her death, her name remains synonymous with style and grace. Despite that, few know what the real Chanel was like or are aware of her humble beginningssomething this documentary aims to put right.
4.30 The Finish Line. 5.15 Pointless. (R)
Rescue.
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
7.00 The One Show. Live magazine show, hosted by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp.
7.30 Kiri’s TV Flashback. Kiri Pritchard-McLean salutes the unlikely heroes of Wales. (R)
8.00 Dragons’ Den. Pitches include eco-friendly disinfectant. (R)
9.00 Would I Lie to You? With Gyles Brandreth, Yung Filly, Sarah Millican and Lou Sanders. (R)
9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. Agnes tries out speed-dating.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop. Featuring Bullet for My Valentine, Manic Street Preachers and Tom Jones. Last in the series. (R)
11.10 Starstruck. (R)
11.30 Starstruck. (R)
12.00 Film: A Bigger Splash.
(2015) 2.00 BBC News.
(R) 3.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 4.00 Who Do You Think You Are? (R) 5.00 Flog It!
(R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Babatunde Aleshe, Richie Anderson, Jo Caulfield and Carol Smillie take part. (R)
6.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. The chef decides to add 10 new piglets to his family of farm animals.
7.00 Villages by the Sea. (R)
7.30 Beechgrove Garden. (R)
8.00 Gardeners’ World. Monty Don considers a revamp of his Cottage Garden.
9.00 Coco Chanel Unbuttoned. Documentary examining the life of the iconic designer and her creations.
10.30 Newsnight.
11.00 Weather.
11.05 No Activity. (R)
11.25 ODI Cricket Highlights.
12.25 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. (R)
1.25 Sign Zone: The Dark Side of Ballet Schools- Panorama. (R) 1.55 Couples Therapy. (R) 2.25 Tommy Jessop Goes to Hollywood. (R)
3.25 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.00 Backstage. Arts programme showcasing the most exciting Welsh talent.
7.30 Emmerdale. David admits that his feelings for Victoria are burgeoning once again.
8.00 Coronation Street. Paul confronts Bernie about her fraud, Stu gets a disappointing update on Eliza, Adam intervenes to help out Dee-Dee, and Aadi and Courtney are thrown together by circumstance.
9.00 My Mum, Your Dad. The parents prepare for a school disco-themed party which causes temperatures to rise. A new connection starts to form, leaving one grown-up kid disappointed for her mum.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 The NFL Show.
11.40 My Mum, Your Dad. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Dan Do. (R)
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine.
11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.
1.30
1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15
Film: Charming But Deadly. (2021)
4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. A trip to Devon. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Wetherspoons: How Do They Do It?! (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
Byd 2023. 8.55
8.00 Puppy School for Guide Dogs. Paralympic skiing hopeful and GCSE student Hester takes potential match Pickle on her first guided walk, and older dog Lando teaches new pup Frankie how to navigate puddles.
9.00 Jane McDonald: Lost in Japan. In Osaka, the singer takes a food tour that includes the best katsu that the region has to offer. She also visits the downtown Dontonbori district. Last in the series.
10.00 Britain’s Favourite Ads of the 70s & 80s. A celebration of British TV commercials.
(R)
12.00 Yellowstone. (R) 1.40
9.00 Gogglebox. 10.00 Open House: The Great Sex Experiment.
11.10 That’s the Way, A-Ha, A-Ha, Joe Lycett. (R) 12.15 Film: X-Men: Apocalypse. (2016) 2.35 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.25 Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.30 Beat the Chef. (R) 5.55-6.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R)
PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.40
Friends. (R) 4.30 Nick’s Quest. (R)
4.55 House Doctor. (R) 5.20 Entertainment News. 5.25
Milkshake! Monkey’s Amazing Adventures. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. 5.35 Paw Patrol. (R) 5.40
Milkshake! Monkey’s Amazing Adventures. (R)
BBC Four
7.00 Top of the Pops 9.00 Paul McCartney in Concert 10.00 James Taylor: In Concert 10.45 Jackson Browne: Old Grey Whistle Test
11.35 Gordon Lightfoot: In Concert
ITV2
Creek 5.00 Dinner Date 6.00 Celebrity Catchphrase 7.00 Family Fortunes 8.00 Superstore 9.00 Film: Identity Thief (2013) Comedy, with Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy. 11.15 Family Guy ITV3 3.40 Heartbeat 5.45 World Series of Darts Finals. Coverage of day one from Amsterdam. 10.00 Vera ITV4 4.00 World of Sport 4.05 The Professionals 5.10 Minder 6.15 BattleBots 7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. New Zealand v Namibia (Kick-off 8.00pm). 10.30 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite E4 4.00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5.00 The Big Bang Theory 7.00 Hollyoaks 7.30 Young Sheldon 8.00 First Dates Ireland 9.00 Film: Mission: Impossible III (2006) Action thriller sequel, starring Tom Cruise. 11.30 Naked Attraction Film4 2.55 23 Paces to Baker Street (1956) 5.05 The Bedford Incident (1965) 7.10 Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey (1991) Comedy sequel, starring Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter. 9.00 The Revenant (2015) Western, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Listings supplied by PA Media
Well, mates, let me tell ya about this wild ride called Funselektor Labs’ art of rally.
At first glance, it’s all bright colors and abstract landscapes, lulling you into a false sense of security, like a siren tempting sailors with its beauty. But don’t be fooled, my friends, because beneath that vibrant exterior lies a rally game that’s deep and challenging, enough to give even the most seasoned drivers a run for their money.
Now, when you fire up the game, you’re greeted by this colossal totem character who decides to have a chat before sending you off to explore. It’s like the game’s one whimsical moment before it slams you back into reality, and let me tell ya, that reality is pure rally madness. As you start cruising around the initial free-roam area, you quickly realize this ain’t your run-of-the-mill
arcade racer; it’s a nononsense, bona fide rally experience that might just leave casual players in a state of shock.
But let’s talk accessibility, my good people. Funselektor Labs has laid it all out for you. You’ve got assists, controls, visual options, and audio tweaks galore. They’ve even got a full Accessibility Report for those who need it. They’ve got your back, folks.
Now, while you’re roaming about, you’ll stumble upon cassette tapes, photo ops, and letters spelling out “R-AL-L-Y.” Finding these unlocks more free-roam spots for you to explore. And they’ve even thrown in a photo mode, so you can capture those glorious moments on the track. However, I must mention that the Switch version takes a hit in the visual department compared to its PC and
Series X/S counterparts. Trees have vanished into thin air, and the grass is nowhere to be seen. It’s like Mother Nature went on strike. Plus, the game’s running at 30FPS instead of the buttery 60 on other platforms. But hey, it’s a compromise for portability, right?
Now, here’s where art of rally truly shines: the music. Oh, the music! It’s an absolute eargasm, my friends. It turns your mundane cruises into symphonic journeys. And those collectible cassette tapes you find in freeroam mode? They unlock even more banging tunes. I tell you, picking a favorite is like trying to choose your favorite spice in a curry—it’s impossible.
The gameplay itself is a real treat. Despite the abstract presentation, steering your ride around corners ain’t no walk in the park. Oversteer a smidge, and you’ll be
taking a scenic detour off the road. Go too far, and the game kindly rescues your ride, but slaps you with a 5-second penalty for your troubles. It’s not your usual top-down rally experience, and mastering it takes time, but the Wsatisfaction you get is worth every hairpin turn and narrow escape. So, my fellow adventurers, despite its visual hiccups, art of rally remains a looker. But it’s the gameplay that truly shines, making it one of the most authentic and challenging rally games in recent memory. And that music, oh, that music! It’s worth the price of admission alone. If you’re on the hunt for a surprisingly deep and nuanced rally experience, this right here, my friends, is the one to go for. Buckle up and hit the road, because you’re in for a wild ride!
Bydd Cerddwyr
Cylch Teifi yn dechrau
ein tymor newydd ym
mis Hydref a bydd
croeso i bawb i ymuno
â ni. y Gymraeg yw
iaith y teithiau ond mae croeso i ddysgwyr o bob safon sy’n barod i beidio troi sgyrsiau’n Saesneg.
Bydd y teithiau misol ar ddyddiau Sadwrn yn dechrau am 10.30yb. ac
fel arfer yn gorffen erbyn
12:30 neu 1.00. Weithiau byddwn yn trefnu man i gymdeithasu ar ôl cerdded i’r rhai sy’n dymuno. Y ddwy daith
gyntaf fydd:
Hydref 14 - yn ardal
Aberteifi gyda Terwyn
Tomos
Tachwedd 11eg - yn
ardal Cilgerran gydag Ali
Evans
Yn ystod y flwyddyn, bydd y rhaglen hefyd yn cynnwys teithiau yn ardaloedd Pont-Tyweli, Llangrannog, Trewyddel, Cenarth, Pwll Gwaelod, Pen-parc a Boncath.
Gan fod Covid wedi ymddangos eto, bob tro, rydym yn gofyn i’r Cerddwyr fod yn
wyliadwrus er mwyn peidio lledu’r haint, gan
• sicrhau eich bod wedi cael y brechiadau sydd ar gael ichi;
• ceisio cadw rhyw
bellter cymdeithasol rhesymol oddi wrth gerddwyr sy’n perthyn i aelwydydd eraill;
• peidio â dod ar daith os ydych chi’n:
• hunan-ynysu, neu’n
• dangos unrhyw symptom sy’n gysylltiedig â’r haint.
Ni fyddwn yn hysbysebu bob taith yn y papurau bro a’r papurau newyddion, gan
fod pethau’n gallu newid ar fyr rybudd. Ond mae croeso ichi gysylltu er mwyn rhoi’ch enw ar y rhestr e-bostio i gael y manylion fis neu wythnos ymlaen llaw.
MAE Cymdeithas
Cwm Cerwyn am
godi’r arian er mwyn comisiynu cerflunydd i greu cerflun efydd o arweinydd cyntaf
Merched Becca.
Bydd y cerflun yn
adlewyrchu cyflwr gwerin y Preselau yng nghanol y 19ganrif ac yn mawrygu
arwriaeth Thomas Rees yn 1839 yn arwain y fintai gyntaf i ddinistrio
tollborth Efail-wen, ar y
ffin rhwng Sir Gâr a Sir Benfro. Gwnaed hynny
deirgwaith yn ystod yr
haf hwnnw a thrwy hynny
waredu’r hyn a ystyrid
yn symbol o ormes ar drigolion y fro wrth
iddyn nhw wynebu tlodi affwysol.
Er ei fod yn ymladdwr
ffyrnig yn ffeiriau’r cyfnod
doedd Twm Carnabwth
ddim o reidrwydd naill
ai’n Adonis na Tharzan o ddyn ond yn werinwr
oedd yn cario pryderon
ei bobl ar ei ysgwyddau.
Bydd y cerflun terfynol
yn llawn dychymyg a dyfeisgarwch. Gosodir y cerflun
wrth ymyl Caffi Beca ym
mhentref Efail-wen ar
y ffordd A478 o Arberth
i Aberteifi yn wynebu
bryniau’r Preseli.
Rhagwelir y bydd yn ei
le erbyn mis Mai 2025
pan fydd y caffi wedi’i adnewyddu hefyd. Comisiynir y cerflun
gan Gymdeithas Cwm Cerwyn, sefydliad sy’n hybu treftadaeth a lles ar ddwy ochr y ddwy sir. Foel Cwm Cerwyn yw man uchelaf y Preselau uwchlaw’r bwthyn unnos oedd yn gartref i Twm a’i deulu – Carnabwth.
Mae Cymdeithas Cwm Cerwyn am fawrygu arwyr y fro ac yn arbennig y rheiny a gyfrannodd at wella ansawdd bywyd yn yr ardal. Un o’r rheiny oedd
Twm Carnabwth.
Am y bydd wedi’i osod wrth ymyl caffi adnabyddus Caffi Beca fe fydd y cerflun o fewn fawr o dro yn dirnod amlwg i’w weld gan drigolion lleol yn ogystal â heidiau o ymwelwyr. Bydd hynny yn codi ymwybyddiaeth ynghylch dechreuadau mudiad y Becca cyn iddo amlygu ei hun ar draws de a chanolbarth Cymru.
Bydd eich cyfraniad yn cyfrannu tuag at
gomisiynu cerflunydd proffesiynol i ddylunio a chreu cerflun cyflawn. Fe gynhelir cyfres o achlysuron cymunedol hefyd i gofio am un o’r gwrthryfeloedd pwysicaf yng Nghymru yn wyneb gormes ac adfyd.
Rydym yn gofyn am eich cymorth i godi £10,000 yn y man cyntaf. Bydd hyn yn caniatáu i ni gomisiynu swyddog celf lleol i arolygu’r gwaith o ddatblygu cerflun, cynnal rhaglen addysgol a gofyn i gerflunydd proffesiynol i greu model manwl o’r cerflun arfaethedig. Wedyn gobeithir denu cyllid wrth nifer o gyrff i fwrw ati i gastio a gosod y cerflun.
Gallwch gyfrannu at y gronfa yma: www. gofundme.com/f/ codi-cerflun-o-twmcarnabwth-statue-funda
THE FARMERS’ Union of Wales is encouraging consumers to get behind Welsh sheep farmers during Love Lamb week (1-7 September) by making Welsh lamb the star of their dinners.
The week provides an excellent opportunity to shine a light on the sustainable farming practices, as well as the exceptional quality and taste of Welsh lamb.
Speaking from his Carmarthenshire sheep and beef farm, FUW President Ian Rickman said:
“Farming in Wales has an incredibly positive story to tell. With a focus on our Welsh lamb this week, it is fair to point out that our lowintensity sheep farms tell a very different story compared to production methods in other parts of the world.
“Consumers are conscious of what they consume and how that food has been produced and our Welsh lamb producers can hold their
heads high and be proud of the premium product we deliver. We farm with the environment in mind. Research shows that the way we manage our grasslands for example helps to offset carbon emissions by keeping it locked up in the soil.”
Mr Rickman added that by using non-
intensive farming methods, animals are reared in tune with the landscapes using natural grass and rainwater.
“80% of Wales’ farmland isn’t suited to growing crops, therefore rearing cattle and sheep is the best way to produce high-quality
food from marginal land. Consumers can rest assured that by choosing to make Welsh lamb part of their healthy, balanced diet, they are not just keeping themselves healthy but are also supporting those who look after our environment.
“When we choose
to eat local and sustainably produced food we are minimising the environmental impact of importing food from across the globe. We therefore encourage you to make sure Welsh Lamb is the star of your Love Lamb week,” said the Union President.
Agricultural Society has thanked all who supported this year’s event, with competitor numbers up on the previous year and a significant increase in trade stands and ticket sales.
The Society has praised the hard work of the huge army of volunteers, sponsors and exhibitors, without whom it would not have been possible to hold the Show.
Brian Jones, Pembrokeshire County Show President, said, “Thank you to everyone who came and supported the Show. We were certainly blessed with two days of glorious weather,, which I’ve undoubtedly helped bring the crowds to the Showground. All the rain we had had prior to the Show certainly made parking a challenge on day one, but we must thank everyone for their patience
as we found alternative solutions. Planning now begins for the 2024 event!”
Award winners at this year’s Pembrokeshire County Show included:
Baron de Rutzen Award Those under 45 who farm in Pembrokeshire and could demonstrate their farm’s use of the latest technological methods to promote progressive, sustainable agriculture was encouraged to enter
the prestigious Baron de Rutzen Award.
The winners were Mark and Caroline Davies of Little Newcastle, Haverfordwest. They milk 230 pedigree Holsteins through a fully automated system. They rear their replacements and also have a small beef enterprise.
The farm is all grassland, and they follow a strict reseeding and liming policy to optimise
the yield from their multicut silage system. The couple places significant emphasis on animal health, husbandry and breeding to maximise the efficiency of their system.
Student Bursary Award was awarded to Lottie Wilson from Hayscastle. The £1,000 bursary is open annually to all qualifying students studying agriculture, veterinary science,
agricultural engineering, food technology, forestry or other agriculture-related subjects.
Lottie is currently studying agriculture at the University of Nottingham. At home, she is a general dairy farm worker, a lambing hand, and a calving beef herd assistant. In 2021, she was the top agriculture student at Hartpury College.
Ambassador for 2024 to help support officeholders in promoting and meeting the aims of the Society. The role was awarded during the Show to Ffion Lewis from Maenclochog. She has enjoyed many years of attending the county show and believes there are so many good elements to it.
Ffion has been a member of Llysyfran YFC for 15 years and enjoys every aspect of young farmers - trying new experiences, competing and travelling, to name a few.
Long Service Award: Farm and estate workers from Pembrokeshire who have been employed on the land for 25 years or more could be nominated for this Award.
There were two recipients for the inscribed Awards: Darran Davies from Scleddau, Fishguard and Richard Davies from Treffgarn Owen, Haverfordwest.
The next event to be held on the Showground will be the Christmas Fair, which takes place on Sunday, 10 December, between 10am and 4pm. There will be gift and craft stalls, food and drink, festive music and a Santa’s Grotto. Admission is Free.
The date has been set for the Pembrokeshire County Show in 2024. The event will be held on 14 and 15 August at Pembrokeshire County Showground in Haverfordwest.
Accessibility to the scheme for existing contract holders is also in question. For example, some Glastir Organic contract holders may have limited habitat land suitable for the interim agri-environment scheme.
NFU Cymru has long highlighted the need to maintain the industry’s confidence through the transition to the SFS.
THE SUMMER’s agricultural show season may have ended. However, farmers’ concerns over the direction of Welsh Government policy remain largely unaddressed.
When Lesley Griffiths, Wales’s sometimeRural Affairs Minister, announced the closure of the Welsh Government’s Glastir agri-environment scheme, she caused resentment and anger among farmers across Wales.
The announcement, made without notice to farming unions, came soon after the Senedd went into summer recess and, crucially, just before the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show. It went down like a bucket of cold sick. Farming unions were shocked by the decision and have consulted widely with their membership since. The decision to eliminate the agrienvironment and the Welsh Government’s proposals for its Sustainable Farming Scheme topped the agenda at every agricultural show.
NFU Cymru took the opportunity to engage with politicians, stakeholders and members to discuss key farming issues and relay the concerns of our members.
Farmers attending the county shows had fears that a ‘cliff edge’ drop in funding would harm their businesses. The lack of information about the budget and payment rates for the incoming interim scheme undermines confidence. It means farmers cannot plan for their futures.
NFU Cymru recently wrote to Minister for Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths MS, echoing members’ concerns that the Glastir AgriEnvironment Scheme (including Advanced, Commons and Organic area-based contracts) will end in December 2023 to be replaced by an interim habitat scheme in 2024.
NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “With the budget and payment rates for the interim scheme yet to be announced, existing Glastir contract holders –many of whom have been agri-environment scheme participants for numerous years and have amended their business practices accordingly – are deeply worried about whether this new, interim scheme can provide them with the same level of income currently received through
Glastir.
“In many instances, alongside direct payments, Glastir areabased payments form an integral component of farm business income underpinning farm business viability and supporting the maintenance of organic farming in Wales.
“The concerns of farmers are compounded by the very significant inflationary pressures and escalating farming costs at this time.
“It is concerning to us that the decision not to extend Glastir areabased contracts through the transition to the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) which is proposed to commence in 2025 has been made without consultation or comprehensive impact analysis to understand the effect on the businesses involved.”
The Union wants urgent reassurances from the Welsh Government that those farming businesses with Glastir area-based contracts who have made longterm commitments to delivering environmental outcomes will not be financially worse off due to the introduction of the interim agri-environment scheme.
Aled Jones said: “In the absence of economic modelling to understand the extent of the funding’ cliff edge’ faced by Glastir area-based contract holders, we believe that the Welsh Government should consider offering Glastir extensions for 2024 with the new interim agri-environment scheme offered to non Glastir contract holders.
“The provision of adequate funding for farming through the Basic Payment Scheme and agri-environment in 2024 is also going to be essential to maintaining the industry’s confidence in the Welsh Government’s proposed policy approach of providing a fair reward for the delivery of environmental outcomes going forward.”
DEFRA recently announced a u-turn on controversial plans which would have seen the mandatory introduction of animal welfare labelling for food products. The move follows heavy criticism from industry, including the FUW.
The reason we heavily objected to what was planned was that the proposals would have linked welfare scores to factors such as the method of farming and the disease status of stock.
We therefore welcomed the fact that Defra have listened to our concerns and have decided that it is not appropriate to introduce welfare labelling. It is a win for commonsense, which recognises the existing high standards of care given to livestock in Wales.
The FUW sent an extremely critical response to the 2021 Defra call for evidence on this issue, where we stated that there was no evidence to show that welfare labelling would produce better returns for producers. In addition, the union was appalled to see a proposed link between disease status and welfare being put forward within this consultation.
It would be incredibly dangerous to implement a welfare labelling system based on disease levels as this could cause livestock keepers to be less inclined to seek out testing for subclinical infections for fear of damaging
their welfare labelling status.
The FUW also used the opportunity to reiterate that current trade deals have left domestic producers vulnerable by allowing UK consumers to access cheaper, lower standard, products at a time when the health and welfare standards of domestic produce continue to be raised at a regulatory level. We support moves to mandatorily identify when imported food products do not meet the minimum baseline UK welfare regulations, especially as recent trade deals have led us to believe that the government is content to ‘offshore’ welfare issues. We oppose policies in which domestic producers are forced to operate under the hypocrisy of ever increasing domestic health, welfare and environmental standards whilst the home market is open to imports produced to far lower standards.
Rather than the industry having to bear yet more costs and regulation, we would like to see more effort within the supply chain educating consumers about the high welfare standards already inherent in GB food production. This should include correcting false information and promoting the hard work and dedication of family farms in Wales. It would be a much simpler, cheaper and more effective way of achieving the desired outcomes in the consultation.
A NEW study by tails.com has uncovered the top 10 most dog-friendly road trips in Wales.
For many pet parents, being able to bring your canine companion on vacation is a dream come true. And with more and more hotels, restaurants and attractions opening their doors to our fourlegged friends, it’s easier than ever to plan a dog-friendly road trip in the UK.
Planning a vacation with your furry family this summer?
Researchers at tails. com have uncovered the top 10 most dogfriendly road trips across Wales based on five-point criteria
According to the research, The Cambrian Way landed in first place on the overall ranking, scoring 25.4. The road trip has four main stopping points, including
Cardiff, Brecon, Beacons National Park and Snowdonia National Park. The route had a total of 260 dog-friendly Airbnbs, 31 vets and 48 dog-friendly restaurants and 413 walking routes.
Cardiff to Tenby road trip landed in second place with a score of 22.9. The route has three main stopping points including Cardiff, HayOn-Wye and Tenby. Along the route, there is a total of 268 dogfriendly Airbnbs, 31 vets, 16 dog-friendly restaurants and 39 walking trails.
Top 10 dog-friendly road trips in Wales:
• The Cambrian Way - 25.4
• Cardiff to Tenby22.9
• Dragon’s Spine20.8
• Gower to Betws-y-
Coed - 20.0
• Llandudno to Aberystwyth - 18.5
• Snowdonia to Portmeirion - 18.4
• North Wales and Snowdonia - 18.1
• Pembrokeshire17.6
• Brecon Beacons -
14.3
• Snowdonia & Anglesey - 12.2
Taking a seed list of popular Welsh road trips, we determined the most dogfriendly based on five factors; Dog-friendly
accommodation, vets within 2km, Dogfriendly restaurants, dog-friendly attractions and walking trails. Each road trip was scored out of 50 based on the amenities at each stopping point along the route.
FOLLOWING new information over the weekend, all 22 local authorities in Wales are assessing RAAC in education buildings.
Two schools on Anglesey have been identified as having RAAC, Ysgol David Hughes and Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi. There are no immediate risks or concerns.
Both schools will temporarily close so that further safety inspections and alternative planning can occur.
We are undertaking further work to verify the position across Wales, and a review of the latest information held by local authorities is underway. We expect to have the results of that within the next two weeks.
The Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said: “Our main concern is the safety of pupils and staff. Since we became aware of these developments, we have been working urgently with Local Authorities and WLGA to ensure pupils and staff can return to school safely.
“Some of the new evidence regarding the usage of RAAC was provided to the Welsh Government last night. This was immediately shared with Cyngor Sir Ynys Môn to support their decision-making process.
“We’re making these decisions together to keep staff and pupils safe. Cyngor Sir Ynys Môn and the schools are doing everything they can to minimise the impact on pupils. If any of this action affects you, you will hear directly from your school.”
Councillor Ian Roberts (Flintshire), WLGA Education Spokesperson, said: “The WLGA continues to work closely and in regular dialogue with the Welsh Government and local authorities on this issue. Teachers, staff, and pupils’ safety is our paramount priority as we seek to establish the full position across Wales.”
Anglesey Council
Leader, Cllr Llinos Medi, said: “This is an evolving and emerging national issue. We appreciate this will be disappointing for all staff and pupils. However, their safety is our main priority. We are implementing plans for Ysgol David Hughes and Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi to minimise disruption to children’s
education.
“We are working closely with the Headteachers and staff at the affected schools. The schools will communicate further updates with parents/guardians and young people. Again, our main priority is to ensure the safety of all our staff and young people.”
Welsh Conservative
Shadow Education Minister Laura Anne Jones MS said: “Students and parents don’t want a statement saying, ‘he said, she said’, and trying to pass the blame to someone else. They want a Welsh Government that will take action to solve this problem and reassure communities that their schools are
safe.
“The Welsh Government have taken their eye off the ball on this, relying on councils to do the work that the UK Government was leading in England.
“Whilst it’s welcome that they’ve named the two schools that have RACC, it’s not reassuring for schools across Wales who are now having to urgently undertake these surveys because the Labour Government sat on their hands for a year.”
In a statement issued on Friday, a spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council said: “Parents and guardians will be aware of media reports in England regarding concerns about reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in schools.
“Pembrokeshire County Council can confirm that, at this time, no specific issues arise across the Council’s buildings.
“All schools will reopen as planned after the summer holidays, and staff look forward to welcoming pupils back.
“The Authority will continue to work closely with the Welsh Government on this matter.”
THE all-new Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric, set to be unveiled at the IAA Mobility 2023 Motor Show in Munich, is designed around families and their need to travel freely and safely, with an increasing awareness of sustainability. Fully electric and brimming with useful and intuitive technology, it embodies the Renault Group’s aims as a nextgeneration automotive manufacturer.
ToThe Renault Scenic story began when the compact MPV first revolutionised the market in 1996. Its name, short for Safety Concept Embodied in a New Innovative Car, hinted at its fresh approach, and as families’ travel habits and aspirations have evolved over the years, the Scenic has changed with them.
MToday, the new latest generation version can be specified with an all-electric powertrain that features a compact
87kWh battery and a 160kW (220hp) motor, capable of delivering a 379-mile range (pending WLTP certification). The 2.78m wheelbase ensures a spacious cabin, including a 278mm knee radius at the back and a 545-litre boot. Its pioneering Solarbay opacifying glass roof and ingenious rear armrest are just some of the comfortenhancing touches.
The OpenR Link multimedia system features more than 50 apps and the ability to help plan your journey effortlessly. The all-new Scenic E-Tech electric’s signature sound sequence has been created in collaboration with renowned composer Jean-Michel Jarre.
Renault is aiming for carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040 and worldwide by 2050. As a result, up to 24% of the Scenic E-Tech electric’s materials are recycled and 90% of its mass –including the battery – is recyclable.
The European specification offers a choice of Techno, Esprit Alpine and Iconic trim – the top-of-the-range version being available for the first time in a Renault all-electric vehicle. The all-new Scenic E-Tech electric will launch in early 2024.
Exterior design
The all-new Scenic E-Tech electric’s architecture is groundbreaking. It features a fully flat floor, large 19- or 20inch wheels, a long wheelbase, and a Solarbay opacifying panoramic roof, creating an adaptable space perfect for modern families.
Its proportions are unique, too, at 4.47m long, 1.86m wide, and 1.57m high, ensuring remarkable roominess and uncompromising comfort for everyone. The extra height of the driver’s seat is reassuring and enhances safety, while passengers in the rear have as much kneeand headroom as the top
C-segment family cars.
The Nouvel’R logo and new signature headlights represent the latest brand identity. The logo sits among an array of superimposed small diamonds, which appear and disappear depending on the light and angle. These patterns merge into the headlights at the top of the grille, creating a spectacular hightech effect. A striking welcome sequence greets its occupants as they approach. On certain versions, the LED Adaptive Vision technology adapts the beam pattern to suit the driving conditions, while the indicators are animated, travelling outwards from the centre.
At the rear, the hightech lights are cited like two arrows facing each other, and appear to stretch the vehicle widthways. Micro-optical technology brings them to life when activated, yet they appear to float when switched off.
Aerodynamic efficiency was a central concern throughout the design process. At the front, air curtains under the daytime running lights optimise the air flow around the vehicle, while the sculpted rear dispels drag with a character-defining line on either side of the bumper.
The lightweight, 20inch wheels feature a design that reduces air inlet space, thereby enhancing aerodynamics further. The door handles of the all-new Scenic E-Tech electric are flush with the body, adding a modern aesthetic while smoothing air flow.
Six appealing body colours will be available: Flame Red, Midnight Blue, Diamond Black, Shadow Grey Glossy, matte Shadow Grey (exclusive to the esprit Alpine trim) and Pearl White. Depending on the trim, the roof and door pillars can be finished in contrasting Diamond Black or Shadow Grey.
WHEN Ian Cummins became critically unwell whilst participating in the Long Course Weekend challenge in Pembrokeshire this year, the quick reaction of those nearby saved his life.
Ian was in the cycling stage of the event when he suddenly collapsed, suffering a cardiac arrest.
Ian had travelled down from his home in Prestatyn, North Wales, with his wife for the event which took place on the first weekend of July. Ian never expected to find himself in such a frightening situation, but the quick reaction of those around him saved his life that day.
HIan has always been into fitness, regularly competing in triathlons and has even completed the Long Course Weekend event a few times in the past. He was feeling as fit and healthy as always in the weeks leading up to the event, so the incident was a complete shock.
Ian had done the
swim part of the event on Friday 30th June with no problems at all and woke up early the following Saturday morning for the cycling event. He was familiar with the route and recalled the larger hill was approaching during the race, so paced himself appropriately. As he made his way up the hill, he began feeling unwell and collapsed, falling on his side. “It felt like an explosion had gone off in my chest” Ian recalled, and he went into cardiac arrest.
Behind him, two medical professionals were also taking part in the event. They came to his attention right away, along with a steward with a defibrillator. They identified Ian’s condition and began CPR immediately. The St John Ambulance Cymru volunteer paramedic team then quickly arrived on the scene to assist them with his treatment.
Those who helped Ian did vital work to speed up the chain of survival as he suffered his cardiac arrest. The chain of survival
describes a series of prompt actions which improve someone’s chances of surviving an out of hospital cardiac arrest. The prompt CPR, early defibrillation and fast medical attention Ian received played an invaluable role in saving his life.
An air ambulance arrived and transported Ian to Morriston Hospital. He was put in the acute ward and had a stent fitted in his heart. He was discharged on the following Wednesday and after various cardiac and physiotherapy appointments, he is feeling a whole lot better now. “I feel raring to go” he says, “I definitely want to take on more physical challenges in the future
… but maybe I’ll have a break this year.”
“I’ve been to various events such as this in my life, and I’ve even been involved with organising running events in the past. You take the first aid support for granted, but they really are so important” Ian says.
Ian’s story is the perfect example of why quick action is so vital in the chain of survival following a cardiac arrest. Following a cardiac arrest, a person’s survival chances are reduced by 10% for every passing minute without action. The more confident you are with CPR skills, the quicker you can act to save a loved one.
Ian is backing St John
Ambulance Cymru’s Save a Life September campaign this year, as it encourages people across Wales to learn lifesaving first aid skills. Throughout the month, St John Ambulance Cymru will be sharing first aid advice across social channels, website and holding free public demonstrations across Wales.
Be there for your friends, family and wider community by signing up to a course this September, just in case you have to use your skills one day.
Learn to save a life like Ian’s this September by visiting www. sjacymru.org.uk/en/ page/training and book a training course today.
AS the summer draws to a close and schools prepare to return, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Chris Jones, is reminding people to stay at home and avoid contact with others if they are unwell and have a high temperature.
Respiratory infections, like flu and COVID-19, can spread easily between people, with symptoms ranging from a continuous cough, fever or chills, muscle aches or pains that are not due to exercise, a sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, diarrhoea and sickness.
COVID-19 has not gone away and continues to evolve and mutate.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Chris Jones said:
“Respiratory infections spread easily between people at this time of year. It is important to be aware of symptoms so you can take action to reduce the risk of spreading your infection to other people.
“We should all take sensible precautionary
measures to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses. If you’re feeling unwell you should avoid contact with others and tell people you have recently been in contact with, so they can be aware of signs or symptoms.
“Frequent hand
washing and covering your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when coughing and sneezing are also encouraged.
“If you live with or are visiting someone with a chronic health condition or a weakened immune system, consider wearing a face mask and avoid visiting hospitals and
care settings if you have symptoms.
“Vaccination remains our key defence for flu and COVID-19. So if your eligible please take up your offer of a vaccine.”
The autumn vaccination programme for Wales starts on 11 September. Vaccinations are to be rolled out to over
65s, at risk groups and those working or living with vulnerable people for flu and COVID-19.
Dr Christopher Johnson, Deputy Director of Health Protection and Head of Vaccine Preventable Disease Programme at Public Health Wales, said:
“While Covid-19 may
not be at the forefront of everyone’s minds, or may even be something that people would rather forget, it is important to remember that the virus is still with us.
“There are simple but important steps that everyone can take to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the NHS, especially as we see increased social mixing as schools return, and an increase in numbers.
If you feel unwell, stay home and avoid contact with others, as you would to avoid spreading any other respiratory infection, like flu.
“When you cough or sneeze, do so into a handkerchief, and wash your hands frequently to avoid passing on germs. Special care should be taken around vulnerable or elderly people, so avoid contact with these if you are ill.
“And of course, please take up the offer of a Covid-19 and flu vaccine if you are offered them. These are the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus and protect yourself, your family, and to help the NHS.”
ACCORDING to the Welsh Retail Consortium, the number of empty shops in Wales further increased in the second quarter of 2023.
The retail sector is the largest private sector employer in Wales. It provided jobs to 139,000 people in 2021, contributing 5.7 per cent of Welsh economic output (Gross Value Added) in 2021 and a quarter of Wales’s NonDomestic Rates tax base in 2023.
The sector is instrumental in providing employment opportunities, is critical for the future vitality of our town centres and is recognised for the valuable contributions small convenience stores make in our rural communities by providing other essential services.
In Q2 2023, the Welsh vacancy rate worsened to 17 per cent, increasing from 16.5 per cent in Q1 2023. It was 0.3 percentage points worse than the same point in 2022.
Shopping Centre vacancies improved to 22.2 per cent, compared to 22.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2023.
On the High street, vacancies worsened to 16.9 per cent, up from 16.3 per cent in the first quarter of this year.
Retail park vacancies improved to 10.2 per cent, compared to 10.7 per cent in Q1 2023. It remains the location with, by far, the lowest rate.
Sara Jones, head of the Welsh Retail Consortium, said: “The number of empty Welsh shops continued to grow in the second quarter of 2023, with over one in six shops lying vacant and with Wales remaining one of the worst performing nations and regions compared to the UK average rate.
“The upward trajectory is bad news for local economies relying on retail as a mainstay of the high street and a
Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email
key contributor to jobs and growth. However, this troubling increase in empty units wasn’t universal across all destinations, with retail parks and shopping centres seeing a small improvement despite a further deterioration on our high streets.”
Jones called for action on cost pressures and a freeze on business rates.
She added: “The Welsh Government’s recently launched Retail Action Plan has the potential to offer a real opportunity for growth for Welsh retailers, but it must be backed up with early action and intervention to enable that growth to be realised.
“As the Finance Minister considers her budget for the forthcoming financial year, we are calling for a freeze on business rates to prevent businesses from being thwarted with eye-watering uplifts to their rates bills. This must be coupled with a greater awareness of the cumulative impact of public policymaking and a moratorium on government-imposed costs.
“Retailers are doing all they can to shield consumers from the impact of increasing cost pressures but, with further regulation planned, this will be increasingly hard for retailers to absorb and bad news for business and bad news for consumers.”
Over the past decade, the Welsh Government announced a stream of initiatives, action plans, and strategies to deal with the decline of the traditional town centre. None has delivered continued success, and most brought piecemeal or short-term improvements without creating either resilience or economic renewal. EU funding has been
misused and wasted in millions of pounds.
The Welsh Government’s focus on town centres means investment is often located in one or two locations in each local authority area, leaving smaller settlements in the cold. That worsens the divide between rural Wales (80% of Wales’s area is rural) and urban centres. Local authorities cannot distribute money more evenly because of Welsh Government rules regarding investment projects.
A compounding issue is the continuing refusal of the Welsh Government to reform business rates. The thicket of reliefs, offsets and exemptions cannot hide that underlying Welsh business rates are among the highest in the UK. Simplifying
the system, rather than continuing with political business as usual, appears beyond Welsh Ministers’ abilities.
Welsh Conservative Leader Andrew RT Davies said: “There is a crisis on high streets across Wales, and Labour is failing to get a grip of the situation.
“Despite Labour holding the economic levers here, they fail to grow our economy.
“The Labour Government must get on top of this urgently and reduce Wales’s business rates.”
Regardless of their merit, Mr Davies’s words ignore several important factors underpinning the decline of the traditional town centre.
People’s shopping habits have changed. While many are inclined to romanticise “old” town
centres full of small shops bustling with customers, many of those businesses disappeared because people stopped using them. Instead, people preferred the convenience of the supermarket, then the variety of the out-of-town retail park, and now the internet.
The evolution of consumers’ wants means modern town centres must fulfil more than traditional retail functions. To reclaim their relevance, smallscale retail will never be enough. The future of town centres is as diverse destinations in their own right. That means fewer shops with more diverse retail offers than exist now and other reasons to visit a town centre apart from shopping.
WORK on the redevelopment of Wales’ oldest golf club is nearing completion, with new four-star guest accommodation and a restaurant due to open at the end of September.
Part-funded by a loan of £995,400 from the Development Bank of Wales and a grant of £248,850 from Visit Wales alongside private funding, the £1.7 million investment is set to transform Tenby Golf Club with the creation of a state-of-the-art clubhouse, an extra five dormy style bedrooms for groups of golfers, new ten-bedroom boutique guest accommodation named ‘The Dunes’ and ‘The Links’, a fine dining restaurant that will be headed-up by renowned chef Duncan Barham. All will welcome nonmembers.
Appointed as the main
contractor, construction and civil engineering company WB Griffiths of Haverfordwest has worked alongside Architects Acanthus Holdings, Bullock Consulting and Roger Casey Associates plus local supply companies such as Shoreline Interiors of Pembroke Dock, Janey Evers Interiors, KO Carpets and others to develop the site. Tenby Golf Club was introduced to the Development Bank by Landsker Business Solutions of Whitland.
Established in 1888, Tenby Golf Club is known as the birthplace of Welsh golf and one of the founding members of the Welsh Golfing Union. With 18 holes overlooking the sea, it features in the top 10 courses in Wales and top 100 courses in the UK. The course is nearly all located in a
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Chairman of Tenby Golf Club, Nick Gregg, said: “This is a major investment for Pembrokeshire. It will transform Tenby Golf Club, benefitting golfing enthusiasts and the local community alike with an improved clubhouse, muchneeded high-quality guest accommodation and a fine dining restaurant that will all be open to non-members.
“The development gives us a great opportunity to showcase Tenby and the surrounding area while local people and visitors will be able to enjoy a unique culinary experience that celebrates Pembrokeshire’s culture and produce. We’re absolutely committed to making sure that as many local people
benefit as possible with 23 new jobs and supply chain work plus the opportunity to come along and enjoy the new facilities. For us, it is all about Wales which is why we wanted the project funded by Welsh money. The combination of the loan from the Development Bank and the grant from Visit Wales has made this happen for Tenby Golf Club and Pembrokeshire at large.”
Richard Easton is a Portfolio Executive with the Development Bank. He said: “Tenby Golf Club is a real asset for Pembrokeshire, attracting tourists and local golfing enthusiasts. The investment in the facilities will now open the club up to non-members who want to enjoy the improved clubhouse, guest accommodation and restaurant. We’re
pleased to have been able to structure a funding package that marks the start of an exciting and sustainable new future for Wales’ oldest golf club at the heart of the local community.”
The loan of £995,400 from the Development Bank of Wales came from the Wales Tourism Investment Fund. Financed entirely by Welsh Government, the £50 million fund
offers loans between £100,000 and £5 million for distinctive, stand out tourism projects that align with the priorities of Welsh Government,. Projects may include high quality, innovative products, all weather attractions, distinctively Welsh visitor focused experiences, innovative cultural or heritage projects, unusual places to stay and flagship attractions.
commenting on, in recent days?
On the most recent delay (the 5th time!) in border food checks as part of the Brexit agreement, Liberal Democrat Treasury and Business Spokesperson Sarah Olney said:
“This humiliating U-turn is just the latest example of Conservative chaos.
“Ministers have been forced to delay their plans amid warnings they’d make food even more expensive. Meanwhile small businesses spent millions preparing for the changes and are now left wondering what’s next.
“A hammer blow to shops and shoppers may have been avoided at the last minute, but the Government should do more than just kick the can down the road. It needs to fix our broken relationship with Europe and guarantee that people won’t see even higher food prices due to paperwork and red tape at the border.”
And there’s more..... it may be in England, but it shows that its commitments to the environment is literally, being flushed down the toilet.
Responding to the news that the government is scrapping regulations that require new housing developments to be nutrient neutral, Liberal Democrat Environment spokesperson Tim Farron MP said: “Not content with the levels of pollution in our rivers already, scrapping nutrient neutrality is a disgraceful act from the Government.
The Conservatives seem happy for Britain’s rivers to get even worse.
T“If Ministers actually cared about our rivers they would clean them up rather than scrapping the few rules in place that protect them.
Liberal Dem Leader calls for HMRC investigation into water firms tax receipts.
Evidence suggests “taxpayers now subsiding water firm bonuses for CEOs and overseas owners”
New research commissioned by the Liberal Democrats has revealed water firms received almost £97.1 million in tax rebates last year after the government slashed taxes on the industry.
The largest tax rebate reported was to Northumbrian Water, amounting to a staggering £21.9 million. The firm credited Rishi Sunak’s 2021 flagship “super deduction” policy, which allowed businesses to claim rebates worth 130% of investment. Whilst this policy was meant to incentivise business investment, an investigation by the Liberal Democrats has revealed water firms increased their dividends and executive salaries this year, all whilst still discharging sewage into swimming areas.
As a result of the policy, Northumbrian Water paid no tax into the exchequer. Before Sunak’s tax cut, Northumbrian Water did pay tax.
The new analysis of Companies House records and financial reporting has also revealed 10 water firms paid no tax at all in 2022/2023. A stark increase since 2021/2022, when just one firm paid no tax. This highlights how the firms were able to take advantage of Rishi Sunak’s tax break, without delivering enough investment to stop sewage discharges.
“Liberal Democrats would clean up our rivers, while the Tories are happy for them to be clogged with sewage.”
And it gets even worse....
10 water firms paid no tax last year despite paying out £1bn in dividends.
Rishi Sunak’s flagship policy directly leads to water firms getting taxpayer money without investing to stop leaks - with accusations of “Sunak’s Sewage Tax Cut”
Lib Dem Leader Ed Davey said: “This is a bombshell revelation which will shock the British public. Sunak’s Sewage Tax cut will leave a bad taste in the mouth for all those impacted by dirty rivers and beaches. To make matters worse the government is scrapping protections against water pollution in our rivers.”
If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales
THE WELSH PARLIAMENT returns from its summer recess next week, and it and the Welsh Government face major challenges.
The battle lines on key issues have been drawn over the summer months.
The much-vaunted and often-derided 20mph speed limit comes into force next week.
The speed limit’s introduction, intended ironically to help reduce carbon emissions, has generated a lot of hot air and shed little light on the issues it tries to address.
There will doubtless be even more jumping up and down and confected fury next week as the Conservative front bench tries to spin the 20mph limit as Welsh Labour’s version of ULEZ, widely touted as the reason Labour didn’t win disgraced former PM Boris Johnson’s old Westminster seat. The Conservatives face the rather sticky problem that they loudly supported the 20mph limit before
it became law and have made a repeated song and dance about air pollution, one of the issues the law seeks to address.
If the Conservatives try to make further political capital from the 20mph limit, they will walk straight onto mostly justified allegations of hypocrisy.
The case of crumbling concrete and schools superficially appears more attractive ground. However, making headway on it could prove tricky.
Firstly, RAA concrete was used to build schools and public buildings when the UK Government was responsible for building them. Additionally, it is clear that the UK Government - if it holds the relevant information - has not readily shared it with the Welsh Government. That is certainly the case with the two Anglesey schools affected by the RAAC scandal. The UK Government shared its data with the Welsh Government regarding
them only the night before the start of the school term. Finally, and perhaps most tellingly, the plethora of new schools across Wales means that Wales’s education estate is far better nick than England’s.
The Westminster Government scrapped its school rebuilding programme, which Michael Gove says is his biggest regret from his time as Education Secretary. In addition, the Treasury slashed capital funding for schools in England, particularly under current PM Rishi Sunak’s tenure as Chancellor.
Although the Welsh Government appears slow and wrong-footed by events, it can point to the Conservatives’ 13year term in power at Westminster.
During that period, five Conservative Prime Ministers held back spending on public services and capital investment in building new schools and hospitals while funding the disastrous HS2 farce. Again, getting traction on an issue involving predevolved decisions will
be tricky and perhaps left alone, apart from MSs’ local concerns.
The Welsh Government is on more difficult ground on two core issues: the appalling state of the Welsh NHS and its serial failure to get to grips with it and the running sore of its agriculture and linked climate change policies.
As set out in this week’s Farming section, the Welsh Government has alienated the most important stakeholders it depends on to deliver its forest creation fantasy. It is out of step with the realities of rural life. The divide between urban and rural hasn’t been starker since devolution.
The coming year will almost certainly see a General Election in which Labour must get at least a toehold in rural Wales. If it fails and also fails to get significantly more seats in Scotland, dreams of a large Labour majority in Westminster will surely fade.
On the NHS, the Welsh Government has nowhere to hide. Having expended energy and money hailing its ability to shore up Wales’s health services in the teeth of UK Government budget cuts. Labour must decide whether to play the champion or portray Wales as a powerless victim of Conservative indifference. The problem with that line is running into the dictum that selfpraise is no praise at all.
The Welsh
Government has spent so long praising its management of the NHS, claiming it bears no fault for its state simply won’t wash.
Labour cannot double down on its record when people can see the chaos with their own eyes. In Wales, Labour has been in power for almost a quarter of a century. It has not improved the NHS one jot in that time.
Even in a national poll, local issues matter. If Labour in Wales hasn’t learnt that in 25 years, it’s learnt nothing.
There is another fly in the ointment.
This autumn, the Welsh Government will introduce legislation to enact the most significant reforms to the Welsh Parliament since 1999.
Work on Senedd reform has been ongoing for many years. In 2017, the Expert Panel on Assembly Electoral Reform (“Expert Panel”) made recommendations about the size of the Senedd and how members should be elected. Its recommendations were subsequently considered by the Committee on Senedd Electoral Reform (“CSER”), which reported in September 2020.
A Special Purpose Committee on Senedd Reform published its report in May 2022.
This article will not analyse the proposals. However, it is worth noting the Welsh
politicians is always a job reserved for the brave or foolhardy. Creating thirty-six more Senedd Members at £70k a year plus expenses, while people depend on food banks and Wales’s child poverty crisis gets worse is a task for someone with no further political ambitions.
Enter Mark Drakeford.
P REVIOUSL y
Government’s proposed legislation ignores the findings of its own expert panel over the number of MSs and their method of election. It has done so for reasons that entirely serve the Labour Party’s interests.
Two Bills to reform the Senedd were included in the Welsh Government’s legislative programme, announced by the First Minister in June 2023.
The second of those bills is stillborn.
The Welsh Government knows it hasn’t got the power to legislate over the gender composition of Party lists. The likelihood of gender quotas’ introduction before the next Senedd election is almost nonexistent.
Welsh Labour’s legislating on major constitutional reform during a major financial crisis (no matter who’s to blame for it and its worse impact on Wales) offers the Conservatives the chance to claim that Labour (and Plaid) fiddle while Rome burns.
Wales needs a more effective Welsh Parliament. Wales probably needs more MSs to scrutinise the Government properly. Selling a potential £100m cost to the Welsh public during a cost-ofliving crisis is difficult. And it’s not as if a new and extended Welsh Parliament will get more powers to help tackle the cost-of-living crisis in Wales anytime soon, no matter who sits in Number 10 Downing Street.
Justifying more
The First Minister gained many plaudits, some far more justified than others, during the Covid pandemic. However, his increasingly waspish and angrily defensive responses to criticism give the Welsh Conservatives something to exploit.
The calm and quiet voice of grey-man reason rapidly becomes a shrill and partisan shout of rage when Mr Drakeford is subjected to close questioning. Too used to unconditional indulgence, he cannot stick it when the heat is on.
Just when Keir Starmer wants everything to stay steady, just after his last major reshuffle before a UK General Election, the man who wants to lead the UK’s Government cannot afford to be distracted by events this side of the Severn Bridge.
The staunchly Conservative UK press will pick over policies that play badly here. It’s worth remembering the most popular daily newspapers in Wales are The Daily Mail and The Sun. Despite the Welsh Government’s cosy and incestuous relationship with the Welsh media establishment, more voters will consume their news online and in print from less friendly sources.
If Mr Drakeford goes “off the reservation” and indulges his angry inner man, it could harm Labour’s Westminster election hopes in Wales. The attack lines would write themselves thanks to Labour trumpeting “the Welsh Way” as a model for governing the UK.
I wrote that I was pleased to see Conservative, Labour and Plaid Cymru Senedd Members agreeing with each other in tackling a problem. I finished my article questioning if it would last. I did not have to wait long before I got my answer.
This week has seen school closures due to the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC). It is present in many other public buildings and nobody is sure how safe the buildings are until they have a proper inspection and risk assessment.
Apparently RAAC has a lifetime of about 30 years, and was a common building material in the 50s and 60s. The fact that some of the buildings were not adequately inspected or maintained over the years cannot be blamed on the current government. However, that is the view of some commentators, who are only blaming others instead of looking for solutions.
Whatever happened in the past cannot be altered and I would rather the UK and Welsh governments came up with plans to resolve the problems with crumbling buildings. Jeremy Miles, the education secretary in Welsh government has accused the UK government of failing to share information.
Maintenance of school buildings is a devolved matter and has been controlled by Welsh Labour for over 20 years. Why do they need to rely on the UK
government to tell them something they should already know?
What I want from our politicians is a coherent plan to tackle problems when they arise and not the constant sniping of “it’s not my fault” we hear too often in Wales. As I have said before cross-party working can achieve great results.
Earlier this month I returned to Northern Ireland, where I served as a soldier in the British Army. I was able to walk freely in places where previously I would have been attacked because of my uniform. This was achieved by the efforts of John Hume and David Trimble who, despite being from different political persuasions, found a way to deal with issues for the benefit of the communities they served.
The difference in Northern Ireland from 30 years ago is wonderful and shows how effective politicians can be when they work together to tackle issues and seek resolutions. There are no soldiers on the streets nor any roadblocks and the barracks I used to live and work in has been converted to shops and cafes. This is what can be achieved by collaborative working.
Why is it then that in Wales our politicians fail to understand this? I am disappointed with the response to the RAAC problems from Welsh Labour to blame the UK government. What parents and I want to hear is a coherent plan on how they are going to deal with the problem so pupils can be educated in a safe environment.
H
ENR y Tu FNELL
IT has been a difficult year for farmers. Harvesting corn in such wet conditions is challenging, with farmers having to weigh the risk of letting the crop sprout in the field against spending vast amounts of money on fuel to dry it in the barn. Meanwhile the volatility of the commodity market means that the wholesale price of milk is now just over 35p per litre, having dropped from previous highs of over 50p towards the end of 2022, and the price of wheat is now below £200 per ton, having been a little over £380 in 2022. I come from a farming background myself, and I can see all too well the challenges that the farming industry currently faces.
The Labour Party has always been perceived to have a difficult relationship with rural communities, in part perhaps due to our traditional urban voter base. Yet, at the Royal Welsh Show and at the Pembrokeshire County Show I spoke with many farmers, as well as the Farmers’ Union of Wales and the National Farmers’ Union. Yes, the talks were robust – particularly on the issue of the new 10% tree cover requirements – but there was an acceptance that the Sustainable Farming Scheme had been arrived at following a positive and collaborative journey between the Welsh Government and farmers. The Welsh Government are serious about tackling the issues the farming industry faces – last month for example it awarded a contract to explore new measures to tackle the spread of bovine tuberculosis across Pembrokeshire. It is an exciting time to see that partnership between the Welsh Government and the farming community in action, working to achieve sustainable
food production while protecting our natural environment.
The collaborative approach taken by the Welsh Labour Government sits in stark contrast to the approach taken by the Tory Government in Westminster. Their reckless approach to the farming industry is staggering. They have concluded a trade deal with Australia that has been predicted to cost the farming and food industry around £300 million, they have made Welsh lamb uncompetitive, they have bartered away our high food standards, and they have facilitated a tight labour market that is crippling the economy. Their approach to Europe also seems to be driven by pure ideology rather than any pragmatism, with no understanding that distance does matter when it comes to trading in an increasingly uncertain world.
A UK Labour Government will change this and will be on the side of farmers. We want to remove export barriers, have food standards that we can be proud of, encourage people to buy more British food, and move to a labour model with improved pay and conditions that does not leave food rotting in our fields. We will rebuild the UK’s relationship with Europe with the needs of our farming community at its heart, including a new veterinary agreement for agri-products.
Benefits for bonobos?
The claims in the Guardian article rested heavily on analysis which had been published as a preprint (before peer review). Now the research has been fully peerreviewed and is published in the journal Science. It shows unequivocally that many projects which have sold what are known as REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation) credits have failed to reduce deforestation. REDD+ projects aim to slow deforestation (for example, by supporting
farmers to change their practices). They quantify the carbon saved through reducing deforestation relative to what would have happened without the project, and sell these emission reductions as credits.
Such REDD+ credits are widely used to “offset” (that is, cancel out) emissions from companies (who may use them to make claims that their operations are carbon neutral) or by people concerned about their carbon footprint. For example, if you were planning to fly from London to New York you might consider buying REDD+ credits that promise to conserve rainforest in the Congo Basin (with added benefits for forest elephants and bonobos). Offsetting your return flight would appear to cost a very affordable £16.44.
However, while previous analysis showed that some REDD+ projects have contributed to slowing deforestation and forest degradation, the central finding from the new study is that many projects have slowed deforestation much less
than they have claimed and, consequently, have promised greater carbon savings than they have delivered. So that guiltfree flight to New York probably isn’t carbon neutral after all.
The finding that many REDD+ carbon credits have not delivered forest conservation is extremely worrying to anyone who cares about the future of tropical forests. We spoke to Sven Wunder, a forest economist and a coauthor of the new study. He told us that: “To tackle climate change, tropical deforestation must be stopped. Forests also matter for other reasons: losing forests will result in loss of species, and will affect regional rainfall patterns. Despite the evidence that REDD+ has not been delivering additional conservation, we cannot afford to give up.”
Deforestation could simply move elsewhere
Carbon credits also face other challenges, one of the biggest being “leakage” or displacement of deforestation. Leakage may occur because the people who were cutting down the forest simply
relocate to a different area. Alternatively, demand for food or timber that was fuelling deforestation in one place may be met by deforestation elsewhere – perhaps on the other side of the world. Another problem is ensuring that the forests are protected in perpetuity so that reduced deforestation represents permanent removal of carbon from the atmosphere.
For credits to be worthwhile, forests must be protected forever.
Eleanor Warren-Thomas Addressing these challenges is vital because selling carbon credits is an important source of finance for forest conservation. It is not too dramatic to say that unreliable REDD+ credits directly threaten forests.
However, this is an active research area and new approaches are increasingly available.
Andrew Balmford is a professor of conservation science at the University of Cambridge who is actively developing methods to improve the credibility of forest carbon markets. He says the new study raises some
important concerns but that more robust and transparent methods have been developed. Deploying these new methods, he told us, is “an urgent priority”.
Change is also needed to how certification operates. At present, there are incentives for verifiers to inflate estimates of the amount of deforestation that would have happened without the project, and therefore the number of credits that can be issued. Sven Wunder explains: “We need to move beyond vested interest towards independent governance employing scientifically informed, cutting-edge methods.”
Even if these problems can be solved, there are still reasons to be cautious about the role of carbon offsets in combating climate change. First, there is the risk that offsetting actually increases emissions because people or companies might feel more comfortable emitting carbon if they believe they can undo any damage by simply buying carbon credits. For this reason, some argue that offsets must only ever be a last resort, after all nonessential emissions have been cut (the problem being of course: who decides which emissions
are essential?).
Second, keeping warming within 2°C will require most deforestation to be stopped and major reductions in fossil fuel emissions. There is a limit to which one can be used to balance out the other.
Finally, there are serious equity concerns with some forest carbon offsets. If forest conservation is achieved by stopping farmers in low-income countries from clearing land for agriculture, REDD+ may exacerbate poverty: your long haul flight would come at the expense of others being able to feed their families.
We don’t know how much it would cost
to achieve genuinely additional offsets which avoid leakage and ensure equity but it is likely to be considerably more expensive than forest carbon credits currently sell for. A higher price would reduce the perception that offsetting is an easy option and should encourage more focus on reducing emissions.
So, should you buy those cheap forest carbon offsets when taking a flight? Unfortunately, there’s currently little evidence that doing so will really make your journey carbon neutral. If you want to contribute to tackling climate change, perhaps the only real
THE people of Wales continue to be robbed. The staggering asset value of the Crown Estate in Wales, with not a penny of the profits staying in Wales, makes this clear.
Welsh politicians have woken up and have begun to call for the assets and profits of the Crown Estate to be devolved. A YesCymru poll conducted by YouGov showed that 75% of the people of Wales believe that the Estate should belong to Wales. A statistic which makes a mockery of, former Secretary of State for Wales, Simon Hart’s, claim that ‘there is no appetite for Crown Estate devolution in Wales’.
Meanwhile, the current Welsh Office incumbent, David TC Davies, thinks the people of Wales are either incompetent or children (or both): ‘too risky to devolve the Crown Estate to Wales’ apparently.
But Wales has begun to raise its voice. Support for Independence has grown. YesCymru has become the mouthpiece for that growth, for that new confidence, to take charge of our assets and make use of them for the benefit of the people who live in Wales.
That support has created the platform to bring the Crown Estate, alongside HS2’s absurd categorisation as an ‘England and Wales’ project, to the forefront of Welsh politics.
People in Wales have a keen sense of justice and fairness. Wales is not being treated justly, fairly or with respect by the Westminster government.
When support for Welsh Independence tops 40% consistently in the polls, Westminster may see an easy win in ‘gifting’ the Crown Estates and the HS2 consequentials to the Senedd. ‘Look peons, you do not need Independence, see our magnanimity in giving you these riches, let us manage your affairs – we know best after all’.
Wales should certainly welcome this when it happens – these are Welsh
assets. No more than a repatriation of stolen goods. When Wales does gain control of the Crown Estates it will be a win for those who started these campaigns and those politicians who are now pursuing it. But it will inevitably be used as a tool to try to steal the momentum from a growing independence movement.
Anyone in Wales, whatever their background, origin or language, who takes a clear eyed look at the Union soon realises that it no longer has anything to offer Wales.
Today, Wales has the highest inflation rate in the UK, the lowest income growth and is starting out as the poorest part of the Union.
Wales is getting poorer, faster, than everywhere else in the UK at a time when the whole of the UK is becoming poorer. Meanwhile the richest 5% in the UK (none of which live in Wales) continue to grow their wealth at the expense of everyone else.
Wales deserves better. The people of Wales must leave the Union and build a brighter future for their, for our, children
Northern Ireland is on the way out, Scotland is simply waiting for its opportunity to leave. Many accept that independence will come ‘but not in my lifetime’.
The sooner Wales breaks free, the sooner we can create a new relationship with a newly independent England and Scotland, and the sooner we can foster and nurture close relationships with other nations across the globe. Small, successful vibrant nations like Ireland, Slovenia, Estonia, Croatia, and New Zealand.
There were less than a hundred sovereign nations in the world at the end of the Second World War in 1945. Today there are 195. Independence is normal.
For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk
Mrs Heidi Noller Hillside Home, Goodwick
Peacefully on Tuesday 29th August at Withybush Hospital. Heidi of Hillside Home, Goodwick. She will be sadly missed by family and friends here and in Germany. Funeral service on Friday 15th September at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11.30am. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to ‘Dogs Trust’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, SA65 9BB. Tel - 01348873250.
Sheila Evans Passed away peacefully on Saturday 26th August.
Sheila, of Haven Road, Haverfordwest and recently Highgrove Residential Home, was the much-loved wife of the late Idris Evans, Mam and Mam in law to Michael and Karen and Robert and Judith, Nana of Rhys, Cian, Eleri, Tom and Iwan. She will be dearly missed. The funeral will
take place a Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth on Friday 22nd September at 11.30am. The hearse will leave 150 Haven Road at 10.50am. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu if desired may be sent to The Paul Sartori Foundation, Paul Sartori House, Winch Lane, Haverfordwest SA61
1RP. All enquires to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.
Mrs. Audrey Hellyar Milford Haven The death occurred peacefully at Parc Y Llyn Residential Home, Ambleston on Saturday 19th August of Mrs. Audrey Hellyar, aged 95 years formerly of St. Lawrence Avenue, Hakin, Milford Haven. Dearly loved wife of the late Tony, devoted mother of Peter and the late John and cherished grandmother to Sian, Christopher & Nicholas and adored great grandmother of Patrick. Audrey will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by her family and friends. The
funeral service will take place on Tuesday 3rd October at 11.00am at Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Floral tributes welcome from all. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.
S MITH
Mrs Sylvia May Smith Robeston Wathen
The death occurred at Withybush Hospital on Monday 28th August 2023 of Mrs Sylvia May Smith, aged 84 years of Northfield Terrace, Robeston Wathen. Beloved wife of Albert. Dearly loved mum of Wendy & Pearl and Mother-in-law to Neil and Bryan. Treasured Nan & Great-Nan. Much loved Sister, Sister-in-law and Aunt. The funeral service will take place on Thursday 7th September 2023 at Martletwy Baptist Chapel, Martletwy at
12.30pm followed by interment in the Chapel Cemetery. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired for Martletwy Baptist Chapel, Martletwy and Bethesda Baptist Chapel, Narberth 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
L EWIS G Ly NDWR
GLYNDWR Lewis 3rd September 1931 to 25th August 2023 On Friday 25th August, Glyndwr aged 91, died peacefully at home, after a long illness, surrounded by his Wife, Shirley and Daughters, Marina and Wendy. Glyndwr and Shirley had been married for 65 years. He was a well-respected businessman before his retirement. Glyndwr was a life-long rugby supporter to his beloved Llangwm RFC and Llanelli and Scarlets rugby teams, he had also been a keen cricketer and
snooker player. He was a lifelong supporter of the RNLI, even volunteering in the shop at Little Haven in his latter years. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends. Funeral service will be on Monday
11th September at Parc
Gwyn Crematorium at 2.30pm. No flowers but donations in lieu to be divided equally between the RNLI and Paul Sartori administered by Marina Morgan, 29 Fair Oakes, Haverfordwest, SA61 1EE.
PARRy
PARRY Gareth Emmett
Suddenly on Friday 18th August. Originally from Prestatyn, Denbighshire, but latterly of Narberth, Pembrokeshire. Much loved son of Glinys
Meredydd and stepdad
Charlie Meredydd, brother of twin Debbie and brother of Nick, Sarah, Joe and Gemma. Uncle to several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He will be sadly missed by all. Funeral on
Friday 15th September at 12 p.m. in Prestatyn Church followed at 1 p.m. by cremation in St. Asaph crematorium and afterwards please join us in the Red Lion, Meliden. A celebration of his life will also be held in Narberth at a date and time to be announced. Family flowers only please, but donation in lieu to MIND or British Heart Foundation.
T HE r ESA P UFFETT PUFFETT Karen Theresa
The death occurred on 13th August of Karen Theresa Puffett, age 39. A dearly loved daughter to Mike and Anne, thoughtful sister to Angela and Andrew, treasured Aunt to Benjamin, Jonathan, Jamie, Finley and Lola. A funeral service will be held at 11am on Monday 11th September at St David and St Patrick Catholic Church. Floral tributes or donations in Karen’s memory direct to The Paul Sartori Foundation are welcome.
I’ve been fascinated by the coverage ‘Mr’ Trump has been receiving over the past few months, but I was particularly struck by Geoff Duncan’s comments. He was lieutenant governor of Georgia when the former President is said to have tried to overturn his defeat there in 2020.
“Ninety-one indictments,” Duncan said. “Fake Republican, a trillion dollars’ worth of debt [from his time in the White House], everything we need to see to not choose him as our nominee, including the fact that he’s got the moral compass of a … more like an axe murderer than a president.
Strong stuff indeed! I have also been intrigued by suggestions that he is running for President mostly to avoid prison!
But is that at all possible? Well there does seem to a good chance he will be elected given the way he has swept the Republican party off its
feet. In fact, I’ve read that a series of polls conducted since the release of his infamous mugshot shows that he has extended his lead over his Republican nomination rivals.
Mr Trump’s populist approach is clearly succeeding, especially among many evangelicals whose support should not be underestimated. Given his track record I find it difficult to understand why anyone would want to vote for him, especially those who would identify as evangelical Christians! It’s a sobering reminder that others don’t necessarily see things the way I do. As I understand it his popularity is related to the ‘culture wars’ with many of them thinking that he can shape things to their liking. Abortion being a good example. There are those who are convinced that he was robbed in 2020 of course, and so much to my dismay then, I am having to face the strong possibility that the ‘former’ President will
becoming ‘Mr’ President once again.
The next few months are going to be turbulent to say the least, which is quite something given the age of the probable candidates (Biden is 80 and Trump is 77), but I keep reminding myself that there is one court, and one verdict Mr Trump will never be able to contest. As one the earliest Christian writers puts it, ‘Man ‘is destined to die once and after that comes judgement’.
Evangelicals believe that the only way to avoid a guilty verdict is to put your faith in what Jesus did at the cross. Now that may not be a popular thing to say today, but it is a key Christian doctrine. I haven’t a clue where Mr Trump stands of course, only God knows that, but as an evangelical I am convinced everyone need to hear it even if they choose to reject it.
ROB JAMES
by Karl Everall
DEAR SIR
COPA is a small national registered charity run by older people for older people in Wales. We want to make sure that older people are listened to, and their opinions acted on in everything that affects them.
COPA wants to recruit a new Chair to lead the Board of Trustees from across Wales. The Board of Trustees guides the direction of COPA as it develops and implements an agenda to forge a more impactful voice for older people, working closely with 50+ Forums in local authority areas. We are looking for a new Chair with the knowledge, experience, and skills of a leading role in a Charity or
Business or Community Organisation. We are keen to attract individuals who would improve the diversity of our Board. You do not need to be an older person to apply.
COPA would like to invite any individuals who may be interested in becoming Chair of our Board to contact us. This is an opportunity for some of your readers to directly influence and contribute to the work of a charity that is making a difference to the lives of older people across Wales. There is no payment for being a Chair, but COPA will cover expenses. A recruitment pack is available.
For more information about Cymru Older People’s Alliance and about how to apply to, your readers can send an email to Cymru.older. peoples.alliance@gmail. com. Please contact us as soon as possible as
the deadline for receipt of applications is 15 November 2023.
yours sincerely, Steve Milsom Chair, Cymru Older People’s Alliance www. copacharity.com ,
If contaminated air in London contributes to the premature deaths of numerous asthma patients – both young and old – it is evident that daily, the health of its 8 million residents is compromised.
During my tenure at Abadan refinery in the 1950’s, I witnessed the addition of lead to petrol, a dangerous compound known to detrimentally affect every organ, notably the brain. Despite the cessation of this practice, its lingering effects have
gone uncompensated and largely unrecognized.
While many, including the current Conservative government, may opt to overlook the health repercussions of polluted air, the long-term costs cannot be ignored. A surge in patients with health issues may inflate medical costs, leading to potential tax hikes. This is not to mention the adverse effects on commerce and industry, as ailing workers might demand higher wages, leading to drops in productivity and intensified conflicts between management and unions.
Certainly, private hospitals present an alternative for those who can afford it. However, as these institutions vie for profits, the quality and integrity of care might be compromised. Relying solely on a system driven by profit can be perilous, as private entities might prioritize revenue over
holistic patient care.
It is indeed a perilous choice to disregard the clear biological impacts of polluted air for immediate financial gains. The complexities of health and environmental well-being cannot simply be reduced to monetary terms. The issue at hand is clear: the quality of our air is crucial, not just for our lungs, but for our overall well-being
C. N. WestermanDEAR SIR
I write to express both my agreement and concern regarding the proposed speed limits. I wholeheartedly support the implementation of a 20mph speed limit in purely residential areas, considering the significantly
higher survival rates associated with accidents at this speed.
However, the idea proposed by Mr. Drakeford of a blanket 20mph limit throughout Wales warrants further consideration. Scientific studies have shown that fossil-fueled vehicles consume up to an additional litre of fuel at 20mph when compared to 30mph. This would inadvertently result in increased fuel consumption, potentially leading to more pollution across Wales.
It’s crucial that our policies are grounded in a comprehensive understanding of all their implications. I hope that decision-makers will revisit this proposal to ensure that we are taking the most effective steps towards a safer and environmentally conscious Wales.
M. Hilder
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
STORAGE TANkS
TRAILERS
PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH
SOuND LIGHT AND STAGE
vAN CONvERSIONS
PODIATRy
SCRAP METAL
SHuTTERS & BLINDS
TECHNOLOGy AND COMPuTERS
WINDOWS
01834
Rob Page believes Cymru are heading into their crunch Euro 2024 qualifier in Latvia with renewed confidence after holding South Korea to a Cardiff draw.
Cymru have now won only once in 13 games, but Page accentuated the positives after a goalless stalemate against opponents who reached the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
T“There’s lots of positives and we take that momentum and confidence into a tough game on Monday,” Page said after Wales had returned to action following damaging Euro 2024 qualifying defeats by Armenia and Turkey in June.
“JJ (Jordan James) has had a very good debut and he’s had that experience under his belt against a world-class team.
“It’s building confidence ahead of Monday and getting rid of the disappointment of June’s camp.
“They’ve reacted in a positive way. We’ve had meetings through the week regards to the defenders and the goals we’ve conceded.
“We’ve kept a clean sheet against a technically good team with one of the best strikers (Son Heung-min) in world football, and at the end we could have won it 1-0 with Kieffer’s header.”
Substitute Kieffer Moore almost broke the deadlock after 66 minutes when his header came back off a post.
SSkipper Aaron Ramsey, who has just entered the action on the hour, was unable to prod home the rebound from a yard out.
Brennan Johnson played the first 45 minutes after completing a £47.5million
move from Nottingham Forest to Tottenham on deadline day as Page selected a far stronger side than most had expected before their Latvia test in Riga.
Page said: “There’s been lots said since the last camp. Everybody’s entitled to their opinion. It’s not a problem.
“I know what I’ve got in the changing room and the staff room. It’s about winning games of football, I get that. The transition we’re in, we’ve lost some worldclass players.
“You would have seen the reaction of the players. I’m really pleased with them.
“I’m proud of how we defended. That was back to our identity.
“That’s the level of performance we reached in March, away against Croatia and at home against Latvia.
“We didn’t meet those standards in June and that’s what disappointed me the most, but we were back to those standards here.”
Jurgen Klinsmann was appointed as South Korea head coach in February and has failed to win any of his five games in charge – drawing three and losing two.
“It was a very good test for us and I am pleased with what the players showed,” said Klinsmann, the former Germany and United States boss.
“Wales had a back five that was very difficult to break. As a team we want to see development, we want to see them grow and every game helps us.
“This is the moment in these friendly games to try these things out, you can see that the team has changed since my first game in March.”
WALES delivered a sturdy but unremarkable performance, settling for a goalless draw against South Korea in an international friendly at the Cardiff City Stadium.
Kieffer Moore, who will be suspended for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier with Latvia, almost broke the deadlock after coming off the bench. Rising to meet Chris Mepham’s cross, his header struck the post.
The match didn’t offer much in terms of goal-scoring opportunities, except for a few speculative chances from South Korea’s Son Heung-min. Wales displayed a solid defensive performance, a foundation that manager Rob Page will seek to build upon in the upcoming week.
Despite the focus on the upcoming trip to Riga, Page made only three changes from the team that faced Turkey. This decision was somewhat surprising, considering Page had previously acknowledged that this fixture might not capture much attention. Brennan Johnson, fresh from his £47 million transfer to Tottenham, had the opportunity to lead the line alongside Nathan Broadhead and Jordan James, who earned his first international start.
While Page’s pregame comments reflected the lack of excitement around this fixture, Son Heung-min remained a star attraction for the 13,668 fans in attendance, with Tottenham Hotspur and South Korea flags proudly displayed.
The early stages of the match were characterized by limited scoring opportunities, with South Korea dominating possession. Harry Wilson had the first notable chance for Wales but was denied by Seungngyu Kim. Son’s best friend, Ben Davies, missed an opportunity to shine when his header from Wilson’s corner went over the bar.
The first half saw Son mostly subdued, and it wasn’t until later that he tested Wales goalkeeper Danny Ward with a bending shot from distance. Page made halftime changes, bringing in Kieffer Moore and Joe Morrell to keep Johnson and Ethan Ampadu fresh for Monday’s game.
The match continued to lack excitement, with Inbeom Hwang and Son missing the target for South Korea. Page made three more substitutions, including a surprise appearance from Aaron Ramsey. However, it was Kieffer Moore who came closest to breaking the deadlock, heading Mepham’s cross against the post.
As the match reached its closing stages, David Brooks replaced Broadhead, and Wales pushed for a late breakthrough. Wes Burns and Ben Davies both had attempts saved, and Moore’s looping header was stopped by Kim. Moore’s positive impact highlighted his importance for Monday’s clash, but Page knows that their performance today will only truly matter if they can secure a result in their upcoming game.
Hakin United II v Monkton Swifts II
DIVISION 3
Solva v Kilgetty ll
Goodwick United ll v Pembroke Boro
Lawrenny v Pennar Robins ll
Letterston v Clarbeston Road ll
Pendine v Neyland ll St Florence v Haverfordwest CC
DIVISION 4
Milford United ll v Milford Athletic
Newport Tigers v Monkton Swifts lll
Angle v New Hedges Saundersfoot Utd
Fishguard Sports ll v Prendergast Villa
Carew lll v Camrose 11
Tenby ll v St Ishmaels ll
DIVISION 5
Cosheston II v Pembroke Boro II
Haverfordwest CC II v Lawrenny II
Herbrandston II v Johnston II
Milford Athletic II v Hundleton
Narberth II v Letterston II
St Clears II v Broad Haven II
THE BEST men’s national teams from around the globe are in France for the Rugby World Cup 2023 from 8 September to 28 October.
The 10th edition of rugby union’s showpiece event is expected to be a more unpredictable affair compared to previous tournaments.
Southern Hemisphere powerhouses South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia have dominated the 15-man game, with the three nations sharing eight in nine titles between each other since the inaugural showpiece in 1987.
South Africa and New Zealand are the undisputed kings of the sport boasting three titles apiece while Australia lifted the Webb Ellis Cup in 1991 and 1999. England is the only world champion side from the Northern Hemisphere, following their 20-17 win over hosts Australia in 2003.
But several European nations are hopeful of winning the 2023 edition on French soil, and some
of the players in action at this event could also represent their countries in the rugby sevens tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympics. There’s plenty to watch for all the way up to the final in the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday 28 October.
South Africa, known as the Springboks, will be looking to defend the title they won four years ago in Japan. Led by inspirational leader Siya Kolisi, the Springboks are ranked third in the world and are among the favourites to lift the trophy.
The Springboks won the tournament in a historic home final against New Zealand in 1995 before reclaiming the title in 2007 and 2019.
Arch-rivals and perennial challengers New Zealand are ranked second in the world and like South Africa will be looking for a record fourth title. Known as the All Blacks, they won the trophy in 1987 before claiming back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2015. But New Zealand were humbled by South Africa in an international match
in London on the eve of this tournament, denting fan hopes.
Hosts France and world number one Ireland go into the tournament as European favourites, having won the last two Six Nations tournaments in 2022 and 2023, respectively.
France’s Les Bleus have finished runners-up in three Rugby World Cup finals in 1987, 1999, and 2011. They will be looking to cash in on the homeground advantage and finally claim the title that has eluded them over nine editions.
Past winners England have been struggling for form, but often perform at their best during World Cups. They reached the final of the 2019 edition in Japan, and were also finallists the last time the event was held in France in 2007.
Australia are another team who can’t be ruled out despite a disappointing run of results this season, while Argentina are always a threat at the Rugby World Cup, finishing third in 2007 and fourth in 2015.
WALES has been drawn into Pool C alongside Fiji, Portugal, Australia, and Georgia.
As the rugby world gears up for this thrilling event, here is a concise summary of Wales’ fixture list and key details to keep you in the loop:
Wales’ national team will traverse the picturesque French countryside as they journey from their training base in Versailles, just outside of Paris, to their pool stage matches. The squad will face most of their opponents in the southern regions of France.
Their campaign kicks off this Sunday when they clash with Fiji in Bordeaux, a city nestled in the south-western part of France. Following that, the Stade de Nice will be the battleground
for Wales’ showdown with Portugal.
The next stop is the OL Stadium in Lyon, where Warren Gatland’s men will lock horns with Australia. Finally, the Welsh squad will embark on their shortest journey of the pool stage, heading to Nantes’ Stade de la Beaujoire for their encounter with Georgia.
Where to Watch the Games: ITV has exclusively secured the rights to broadcast the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Fans can catch all of Wales’ pool matches live on ITV1, and for those on the go, they will be available for streaming on ITVX.
Key Players and Storylines: Warren Gatland, the head coach, utilised Wales’ warm-up tests to experiment with his squad, introducing
waleS’ pool STage FixTureS:
new faces and strategies. A significant headline emerged from the World Cup squad announcement: Wales opted for co-captains, Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan, a bold move likely to influence the starting lineup in Bordeaux.
Dan Biggar, a prominent figure in Welsh rugby, will be seeking a triumphant farewell in a red shirt as he announced his retirement from international duty with Wales following the tournament.
Star number eight Taulupe Faletau has raced against time to recover from a calf injury, with Wales remaining optimistic about his availability for the opening game against Fiji.
Wales vs. Fiji: Sunday, September 10th, 8:00 pm UK time (9:00 pm local time)
Wales vs. Portugal: Saturday, September 16th, 4:45 pm UK time (5:45 pm local time)
Wales vs. Australia: Sunday, September 24th, 8:00 pm UK time (9:00 pm local time)
Wales vs. Georgia: Saturday, October 7th, 2:00 pm UK time (3:00 pm local time)
