The Pembrokeshire Herald 13/10/2023

Red Kite Surprise Traffic light plans at accident black spot

PLANS to install traffic lights at Nash Fingerpost junction, a known accident hotspot in Pembrokeshire, are facing intense scrutiny. The Welsh Government’s decision to reconsider the installation comes after a torrent of opposition from local motorists.

Earlier this week, the Western Telegraph disclosed the government’s intentions to introduce traffic lights at this critical junction by the fiscal year’s end. The revelation was met with swift action from concerned locals. Within hours, a petition was initiated, advocating for a roundabout as a preferable safety measure instead of traffic lights.

Laura Griffiths, who spearheaded the petition, stated, “Upon seeing the overwhelming public sentiment against the traffic lights after

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the news broke, I felt compelled to act.” The petition received rapid approval, and within a mere ninety minutes, a confirmation was received regarding an upcoming site visit by Petitions Committee chairman Jack Sargeant and local MS Sam Kurtz.

The core of the residents’ concerns seems to be the Welsh Government’s purported miscalculation of the volume of traffic on this key artery into Pembrokeshire. “This isn’t just a regular road. We have substantial freight traffic heading to Pembroke Dock’s ferry, vehicles going to the Valero oil refinery, and the MoD base at Castlemartin. This is in addition to the consistent influx of general traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons,” Griffiths emphasized. She further argued

that while other sections of the road utilized roundabouts - like those at Carew Cheriton, Sageston, and Kilgettyintroducing traffic lights at Nash Fingerpost would unduly prolong travel times. Coupled with the new 20mph speed limits, many might find their travel times extended by up to half an hour.

Echoing these concerns, South Pembrokeshire MP Simon Hart conveyed his reservations.

“It’s reassuring that the government

acknowledges the risks posed by this junction, but sidelining the roundabout solution we’ve sought for over a decade is disheartening,” he said. “We need a comprehensive remedy, like a roundabout, to ensure continuous traffic flow and address the issue permanently.”

Pembrokeshire County Council has also been vocally advocating for a roundabout over traffic lights at this location. Griffiths said, “When even the local authority pushes for this, it underscores its urgency. We hope the government grasps the depth of our community’s concerns.”

Residents are urged to lend their voice to the petition before the critical site visit on October 26. They are also encouraged to relay their apprehensions to their local representatives.

On October 26, at 3:30 pm, Nash Fingerpost junction will witness the arrival of the Petitions committee chair Jack Sargeant MS and Samuel Kurtz, offering a glimmer of hope to locals for a safer commuting future.

Five star Chinese

A PEMBROKESHIRE restaurant has been handed a new four-outof-five food hygiene rating.

Dragon & Pearl Chinese Restaurant, a restaurant, cafe or canteen at

Dragon & Pearl Chinese Restaurant Swan Square, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire was given the score after assessment on September 6, the Food Standards Agency’s website shows.

A RED KITE found injured in west Wales has been identified as the oldest ringed red kite to survive in the wild.

The unwell bird of prey was spotted by a Llanybydder, homeowner back in July - who contacted the RSPCA after spotting that the bird had collapsed and was unable to fly.

RSPCA wildlife officer Ellie West was tasked to assess the bird who was monitored by the homeowner until collection.

“This was such a beautiful bird - and I could tell that it was an adult and of a good age,” she said.

“There were no avian influenza symptoms but I was immediately concerned about its thin body condition and poor plumage.

“Unfortunately due to the extent of the kite’s condition it meant that the bird could not be helped and was put to sleep to prevent further suffering.

“The bird wasn’t able to fully extend its wings at carpal joints and was showing signs of bumblefoot - along with other concerns meaning sadly rehabilitation wasn’t an option.”

Ellie reported the ring - which was a light green Darvic ring - to the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO).

At the end of

September the BTO responded to reveal that the bird had been ringed as a nestling on 20 June in 1997 and had survived 9,518 days and has further confirmed the red kite is the oldest known.

“I could not believe it as this bird was 26 years old - and was found in pretty much the same area they were ringed in all those years ago,” said Ellie.

“It is very sad that the bird didn’t make it but at least they didn’t suffer a lingering death. I’m sure they had a full life and it would be lovely to think that it may have reared several offspring over the years in the area too - although the sex is unknown.”

Confirming the significant age of the red kite, Lee Barber, Demographic Surveys Organiser at BTO said: “This red kite now holds the longevity record for the oldest known wild red kite in Britain and Ireland.

“Amazingly this is the first and only report of this bird in 26 years and 22 days since it was ringed as a nestling back in 1997.

Six years for attempting to groom young girl, 12

PAEDOPHILE

Simon Howard, a 33-year-old man from Llanybydder, has been sentenced to six years in prison after demonstrating “predatory behaviour” in an attempt to groom a 12-year-old girl on social media. Swansea Crown Court heard the details of his engagement in sexual communication with someone he believed to be a minor.

However, unbeknownst to Howard, the social media profile he was interacting with was managed by an undercover officer from Tarian, the Regional Organised Crime Unit for southern Wales. The disclosed messages revealed that Howard acknowledged he was conversing with a child, later delving into explicit descriptions of sexual acts and expressing plans to meet with the young girl.

On October 9, after pleading guilty to charges including

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inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and arranging the commission of a child sex offence, Howard received his jail term. Additionally, he has been mandated to register as a sex offender for a decade and is under a sexual harm prevention order for the same duration.

The successful operation was a result of collaboration between Tarian officers and Dyfed-Powys Police. Detective Inspector Mathew Davies of Tarian commended the teamwork, emphasizing their commitment to “target high harm offenders” and prioritizing the safety and protection of children.

His sentiments were echoed by Detective Inspector Leon Lewis from Dyfed Powys CID. He elaborated on the severity of Howard’s

actions, urging the public to report any instance of child sexual abuse to their local police at 101. Lewis reassured victims that they could speak

confidentially to skilled investigators and would be guided to supportive services.

Lewis also mentioned the Lucy Faithfull Foundation’s Stop It Now! helpline, a resource offering anonymous advice and support for individuals concerned about their own or someone else’s online behavior towards children.

For those concerned about internet use or inappropriate thoughts or behaviors regarding children, or if they have concerns about someone they know, the Lucy Faithfull Foundation offers the Stop It Now! helpline on 0808 1000 900.

Simon Howard: Sentenced to prison for his attempts to groom a minor on social media. Image courtesy of Dyfed-Powys Police.

100+ Object to ‘Instrusive’ Telecoms Mast

WALES’s Planning Inspectorate has received over 100 letters opposing the construction of a 51-metre-high data relay mast near Rosebush.

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority rejected an application by Britannia Towers to build the mast last year.

The company has appealed to the Planning Inspectorate.

The date for submissions to the appeal closed recently. The last data entered on the planning portal is from October 4.

That records a “Stop the Mast” petition.

The Planning Inspectorate received 100+ letters objecting to Britannia Towers’ appeal. However, many are form letters that have been cut and pasted, and objectors have added their signatures.

Several letters of objection come from persons outside Pembrokeshire.

If built, the mast would be a link to transmit data between London and the Irish Republic.

While several objectors impliedly think that business involving financial transaction data is and of itself “a bad thing”, that is not a valid planning objection.

One objector notes that data connectivity by fibre to the premises means they can work remotely from Rosebush for a job elsewhere. They claim they moved to the village because they expected it would remain an unspoilt rural idyll.

Nimbyism is also not a valid planning objection.

However, where objectors are on significantly stronger ground is the cumulative impact of the mast and its intrusion into a protected landscape.

In addition, there will be no visible benefit for anybody living locally and no lasting inward investment.

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The National Park’s full-throated defence of its original decision draws its line on the side of conservation trumping other interests.

Although the planning application suggests wider public benefits to the scheme, for example, improving local mobile phone signals from multiple operators, only Vodafone has shown any interest in piggybacking the mast to host one of its service relays.

Additionally, although Britannia Towers says it is prepared to mast share, that cannot be guaranteed in practice through a planning condition.

Even if there is a potential public benefit, there is no way of guaranteeing the public benefit would ever materialise.

In cases where the planning authority must balance conservation and public benefit, the law provides that conservation interests are paramount.

The relevant statute states: “If it appears that there is a conflict between those purposes, [the National Park Authority] shall attach greater weight to the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area.”

The proposed mast’s location would be in an area rich with cultural heritage. Thousands of years before the Celts occupied Wales, the Preselis formed part of an important neolithic sacred landscape. Bluestone from the area near the mast ended up at Stonehenge, and the area is dotted with cromlechs, other Neolithic monuments, and archaeologically significant remains stretching unbroken from that time to the Industrial Revolution.

If the area’s weight

of heritage and wider cultural importance is accounted for, the National Park argues it was justified and correct in rejecting the application.

Britannia Towers’ position cites the Welsh Government’s approach to telecommunications: “Affordable, secure electronic communications infrastructure is essential to people and businesses. The availability and exchange of information afforded by telecommunications ensures people are connected to important services, their communities and the wider world and is essential for long-term prosperity.

“Fast, reliable connections are essential to meet the needs of businesses and other organisations and those at home, whether accessing new digital services or working.”

Objectors flatly contradict that proposition, noting that fibre to the premises broadband is already available within the local community. In addition, the infrastructure benefits are incidental and not central to the application.

will

Whether that is what the Welsh Government’s planning guidance means when it refers to the public benefits of telecommunications infrastructure is - at least - highly debatable

The ultimate beneficiaries will be neither the local nor Welsh economies. The main beneficiaries

be businesses in London and Wexford.

Pantmaenog, near Rosebush: Mast would be visible for miles across Pembrokeshire

Tenby’s Haydn Miller Lifeboat returns to action

THE HADYN MILLER, Tenby’s renowned all-weather lifeboat, is back on the waves after an essential maintenance period. Shortly after its return, the vessel was in swift action, collaborating with another RNLI crew to rescue a person stranded by the tide.

On Tuesday, October 10, the Haydn Miller proudly sailed back to Tenby, following successful sea trials that came after its maintenance stint. A dedicated volunteer crew from Tenby undertook the brief voyage to Milford Haven in a relief boat. Once there, they boarded the Haydn Miller to chart the course back to their base.

The journey back had its moments of urgency. Just south of Caldey Island, the lifeboat received a distress call. The Tenby crew

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was directed to Worm’s Head, joining forces with the Horton inshore lifeboat. Their shared mission: to locate and rescue an individual stranded by the rising tide.

Not long after reaching the location, the Tenby lifeboat, aided by Horton, embarked on the search. Ashore, Coastguards and members of the NCI intensified the hunt. Their combined efforts bore fruit; the individual was quickly located. The inshore lifeboat safely retrieved the casualty, who was subsequently handed over to the awaiting Coastguards onshore.

The Haydn Miller concluded its rescue mission and made its way back, reaching the station roughly six hours from its departure.

Tenby’s Haydn

since August, undergoing a refit and routine maintenance.

Miller had been docked

During its absence, Tenby’s indefatigable crew responded to emergencies throughout

the bustling summer. They utilised the relief Tamar lifeboat, the Victor Freeman, and

the inshore lifeboat to ensure that no call for help went unanswered.

World War II Veterans celebrate our greatest generation

World War II

Veterans Tony Bird and Duncan Hilling joined other Welsh veterans at a unique gathering to celebrate ‘Our Greatest Generation 1939-45’.

Held at Myddfai Community Hall, Carmarthenshire, it was organised by the Age Cymru Dyfed Veterans Team who are recording veterans for a Welsh digital archive.

Tony, of Freshwater East, joined the Royal Navy in 1942 and served on a destroyer on convoy escort duties before beginning pilot training. This was cut short with a posting to a corvette which on D-Day in June 1944 supported the Normandy landings. He ended the war in the Far East.

Duncan, of Saundersfoot, was called up to the RAF in 1944 for aircrew training but was transferred to

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the Army. He became a Bren Gun Carrier driver in the Royal Welch Fusiliers and in January 1945 was posted to India. At war’s end Duncan was among the advance occupation party in Hiroshima, only weeks after the atomic bomb was dropped on that city.

Joining them were RAF veterans of more recent times, Trevor Clark and Cliff Robinson, from the Volunteer Team at Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre. Another Pembrokeshire connection was through Greg Lewis, producer of ITV’s ‘Greatest Generation’ who recalled his connections and filming with veterans. Greg, originally from Saundersfoot, began

has interviewed many

his journalistic career in Pembrokeshire and

military veterans. One of his memorable programmes was the

three-part ITV series featuring D-Day Veteran Royal Marine Ted Owens, of Pembroke Dock, who died earlier this year.

Milford Haven hydrogen fuel scheme backed by planners

A major hydrogen fuel generation scheme, which could make up to five tonnes of the gas a day at the former Puma Energy site in Milford Haven, has been given the backing of county planners.

Viktor Carp of H2 Energy Ecosystem UK Limited sought permission for the erection of an electrolysis hydrogen generation facility, and associated storage facilities and works at the Amoco Road site.

The brownfield Puma Energy Ltd site, previously known as the Milford Haven Refinery, has been empty since refinery use ended in 2014 with its demolition.

The 20MW hydrogen generation plant on the 1.7-hectare site would generate, on average, five tonnes of hydrogen a day; the electricity coming from the substation on site, using green electricity from UK windfarms.

Puma Energy’s largest shareholder) and H2 Energy Holdings, with the goal to make hydrogen generated from renewable energy a mainstay of energy systems.

A planning statement accompanying the application said: “South Wales is an ideal location for a proposed hydrogen generation plant, to make use of the existing renewable energy assets and Pembrokeshire’s emerging status as a key location for clean energy investment.

other sites in Wales, in addition to green transport such as trucks and tugboats. The end use of the hydrogen generated will be driven by market demand.”

The project, conditionally approved by county planners, has been shortlisted for funding under the UK government’s Hydrogen Business Model and Net Zero Hydrogen Fund: Electrolytic Allocation Round 2022 and selected to progress to the negotiation stage as part of the Net Zero Hydrogen fund.

The final projects selected are expected to be announced in the last quarter of this year.

The technology uses the electrolysis of water to split into its constituent elements, hydrogen and oxygen; the end product is hydrogen gas, which can be used for fuel cells in cars, fuel for engines and turbines, or as liquid fuel for planes and lorries.

Children’s care home plans approved

An application to convert a roadside guest house to a children’s care home has been approved by Pembrokeshire planners despite concerns by the local community council.

Weatherall, would see a reduction in the number of rooms, from seven to six.

H2 Energy Europe Ltd was established in 2014 in Zurich as a joint venture between Trafigura (landowner

“Milford Haven is home to the UK’s largest energy port and offers great opportunity for a transition to a low carbon economy, to meet Wales and the UK’s decarbonisation goals.”

It added: “The hydrogen generated from the site will be used to supply industrial clusters in Milford Haven, Port Talbot and

Subject to government support, H2 Energy’s 20 MW electrolytic hydrogen production facility is expected to be commissioned within two years, creating 17 high-skilled jobs.

Ruth Stone of children’s charity Action for Children sought a change of use of the Cross Villa guesthouse, Templeton to a children’s home.

The application for the site at the A478 Boars Head pub/C3065 junction, made through agent Sanderson

The plans, which include the creation of new link between the main house and annex and associated works, would see five full-time workers employed onsite.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Pembrokeshire charities to benefit from Blue Lagoon water

CHARITIES

and communities in Pembrokeshire

will benefit from a series of events to be launched at the Blue Lagoon water park, near Narberth, by Bluestone National Park Resort and the Bluestone Foundation.

The community events will be open to local residents and will provide a unique opportunity to raise funds for various local charitable causes. It is estimated that up to £15,000 could be raised annually, with the first charity to participate being the “Get The Boys A Lift.”

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Up to 600 local community members will be able to participate in the water park activities at each event, with 75% of the ticket sales value going directly to

the charity hosting the event.

The remaining 25% will be going to the Bluestone Foundation

for distribution to local good causes through the Pembrokeshire Association for Voluntary Services (PAVs).

The proposal comes following an operational review of the Blue Lagoon that was promised by Bluestone, examining ways of opening the venue to the public as well as guests staying at the resort.

Marten Lewis of the Bluestone Foundation, said: “The community events will be a great way for charities to raise much-needed funds in a fun way, with local residents able to buy tickets and all proceeds being channelled towards local good causes.”

The first community event is scheduled for February in support of Get The Boys A Lift, to support counselling sessions for people within Pembrokeshire.

Information on how to make a booking will be released by Bluestone Foundation and Get the Boys A Lift on 1st December 2023.

The events will take place between 6.30pm and 9pm, offering ticket holders the chance to experience all the water park’s facilities and features.

Non-profit organisations interested in participating in future events are encouraged to contact the Bluestone Foundation at foundation@ bluestonewales.com.

For more information about the Blue Lagoon water park and its community events, please visit www. bluestonewales/ bluestonefoundation

Council Bluestone holiday park shares questions tabled

THE value of Pembrokeshire council-owned shares in the Bluestone holiday park near Narberth – exchanged for £1.9m in loanshas previously been disputed, with claims they are worth just £70,000, and counterclaims placing them at £1.3m.

Back at the May 11 meeting of the county council, in a response to a question by Councillor Alan Dennison, Cabinet Member for corporate Finance Cllr Ale Cormack said the value of the shares amounted to under £70,000, and had paid out £19,000 in dividends over the last five years, with the highest dividend in a single year amounting to £5,250, in 2019-20.

£1.3m.

Details of the email appearing to contradict the earlier figures have not been made public.

At the October 12 county council meeting, Cllr Dennison will ask two pre-submitted questions relating to the Bluestone shares.

received over the last five years.

“Can the Deputy Leader advise which part of this question he believes warranted such negative publicity against Bluestone?”

Cllr Dennison will also ask a second, related, question.

The shares were taken up by the council’s previous administration more than a decade ago.

Cllr Dennison had asked: “Given the council’s previous investment in Bluestone of a £1.9 million secured loan, now converted into

shares, can the Cabinet member advise what return on investment per annum has been received over the last five years in share dividends or any other form of income?”

Since then, the value placed on the shares has been disputed.

At a special leadership challenge meeting to Council Leader David Simpson just a week later, leadership hopeful Councillor Huw Murphy said all councillors had received an email from the owners of Bluestone, valuing the shares at

The first asks: “In his email response to Mr William McNamara [Bluestone CEO], on May 17, the Deputy Leader [Cllr Paul Miller] stated: ‘It’s unfortunate that recent questions to council have generated a degree of negative publicity for you but it is incumbent upon us to respond openly and honestly, in the public domain, to questions raised by elected councillors’.

“The only question submitted referred to the share dividends

“Did the Leader of the Council [Cllr David Simpson] approve the response of the Cabinet Member for Finance [Cllr Alec Cormack] to the question submitted by myself regarding the return to date over the last five years of the Bluestone shares held by this council, at the full council meeting held on May 11 and, if so, will he comment on the response from the CEO [of Bluestone] which appears to contradict the Cabinet member’s response?”

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Home Office must be accountable for lack of planning

POLICE and Crime

Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has today insisted that the Home Office need to be held accountable for their lack of strategic planning around housing asylum seekers.

The Home Office’s accommodation provider Clearsprings Ready Homes have been working on the site of the Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli since April 2023, and had been expected to have asylum seeking families moving on to the site during July.

However, today (10.10.23), the Home Office have written to Dyfed-Powys Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner to notify them that due to ‘a number of practical and logistical challenges’ – they are no longer proceeding with plans to

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use the Hotel as a site for asylum accommodation.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said; “While I welcome the decision to halt the plans to use the hotel as a site for housing asylum seekers, it is imperative that the Home Office now be held accountable for their decision-making processes and their lack of strategic planning. Who made the decision in the first instance, where was the business case and the surrounding due diligence in ensuing that the decision was feasible and realistic?

“Tensions around the site have been growing in recent weeks, requiring frontline officers and staff to continually work in challenging circumstances which on occasions has compromised our

positive relationship with communities.

“The position has been untenable at times, and the costs associated with policing this site are significant and have been rising continually over recent weeks. Add to that, costs incurred by other service providers such as the Fire Service and the Local Authority, and as importantly, how much have the Home Office themselves spent on the site over recent months? Questions need to be asked, and our taxpayers need answers. The Home Office must provide a clear explanation for their lack of foresight and the significant pressure they have placed on local service providers in Carmarthenshire and beyond.

“This is the second time in only a matter of couple of years where local communities and service providers in

Dyfed-Powys have been put under unnecessary pressures due to the Home Office’s lack of strategic planning and local engagement. It is obvious to me that no lessons have been learnt from past experiences, and once again we have been left to pick up the pieces on a local level.

“I would reiterate from the letters I have written to the Home Office, my support for the Welsh Government’s strategy, which is to house people in a dispersed model. This is sustainable in offering a longer-term solution for asylum seekers within the Dyfed-Powys area. It is a model that the people of Wales support, have embraced and have successfully delivered to re-settle Syrian, Afghan, Ukrainian and general asylum seekers in recent years.

“The decisions made by the Home Office are in direct conflict with this.”

Johnston resident faces trial over cocaine possession charges

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A RESIDENT of Johnston, Mark Anthony Edwards, 54, has been charged with possessing and intending to supply cocaine, following a police raid at his property, Silverdale Lodge, on June 16, 2021.

The prosecution alleges that Edwards was found with 96.96 grammes of the Class

A drug, which had an estimated street value of over £5,000. Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan further highlighted that an additional financial investigation revealed £91,000 moving through Edwards’ bank accounts,

pointing towards a potential commercial drug-dealing operation.

Edwards has denied the charges.

Due to the serious nature of the allegations, the magistrates, advised by the Crown Prosecution

Service, have declined jurisdiction. The case has been forwarded to Swansea Crown Court, where the trial is scheduled to begin on November 3.

Pending the trial, Edwards has been

released on conditional bail, with requirements to remain residing at Silverdale Lodge and to check in at Haverfordwest police station the week before his court appearance.

Drakeford welcomes UEFA EURO 2028 decision

FIRST MINISTER

Mark Drakeford has welcomed today’s news that Wales will host matches at the finals of a major senior international football tournament for the first time.

In a ceremony in Switzerland today, UEFA announced that the UK and Ireland’s bid to host the 2028 UEFA European Championships has been successful.

Wales has previously hosted major sporting events, including the UEFA Champions League Final in 2017, boxing, the London 2012 Olympics and the Rugby World Cup final. EURO 2028 will be the first time matches in the finals of a major senior men’s international football tournament are played in Wales.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “Wales has built a strong global reputation for successfully hosting major sporting events, while reaching the finals of three major men’s football tournaments since 2016.

“Football is at the heart of our sporting ambitions –whether that’s hosting the Champions League Final in 2017 or proudly sending Wales to its first FIFA World Cup finals for more than 60 years. We’re also providing unprecedented support for the women’s game and investing in grassroots and youth football across Wales.

“Today’s news is the next exciting opportunity for us to showcase what Wales has to offer. We have a strong track record of working in partnership

with key partners, including Cardiff Council and the stadium, to host the events, which fans from all over Wales can enjoy.

“Securing EURO 2028 is another milestone for Welsh sport and I’m confident the UK and Ireland will host the best UEFA EURO ever.”

Deputy Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Dawn Bowden, said: “We look forward to working with the FAW, the stadium and our UK and Ireland nation partners to deliver a passionate and unforgettable celebration, which will be safe, welcoming and well-organised. The 2028 UEFA European Championships will be a spectacular and sustainable football festival – for the players, for the fans and the entire UEFA Family.

“The economic benefits of hosting such a high-profile event will be significant – and will also provide us with an excellent platform upon which to raise Wales’ profile on the world stage aligning us with a genuine global brand. The opportunities which we had as part of the World Cup last year gave us a platform upon which to deliver an award-winning promotional campaign for Wales.

“This inspirational opportunity will also be used to encourage participation, particularly amongst women, as well as using football to

promote and support initiatives to address social inclusion – which will form a lasting legacy for the2028 UEFA European Championships.”

The Principality Stadium, will be known as the National Stadium of Wales for the purposes of this tournament.

“This is an historic day for Wales and Welsh sport.” said interim WRU Group CEO, Nigel Walker.

“We look forward with immense excitement to playing our part to deliver an excellent UEFA EUROS 2028, working alongside our partners at Welsh Government, Cardiff Council, the Football Association of Wales along with the rest of the UK and Ireland.

“We have hosted hugely significant global football events at our stadium before, from Welsh international matches to FA Cup Finals, Olympic Games matches and the 2017 UEFA Champions League Final. We offer a magnificent spectator experience, a playing surface fit for the finest talent around the globe and a fully retractable roof all situated in a hugely attractive city centre location with all the benefits the Cardiff capital provides.

“We already know the hugely positive impact hosting major sporting events at the stadium has on Cardiff and the surrounding region.

UEFA EURO

will be no different, and we will be ready to welcome football fans from all corners of the world for one of the biggest sporting spectacles in the world.”

Cardiff Council Leader, Cllr Huw Thomas, said: “This is wonderful news

for Cardiff and for Wales and we can’t wait to welcome fans - many who will be coming here for the first time. It’s another fantastic opportunity to remind the world just how special Cardiff is when it comes to hosting major events. Visitors

can expect a unique atmosphere, a warm and welcoming city, and a passionate populace with a real love of the game. What could be better than the beautiful game, in a beautiful atmosphere, in our beautiful city. I can’t wait.”

2028

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St Clears railway station revival: Costs rise by £6m

THE muchanticipated reopening of the historic St Clears train station, which has lain dormant for nearly six decades, is once more under jeopardy due to a sudden surge in redevelopment costs, leaving a staggering £6 million deficit.

In what was initially hailed as a pivotal move in 2020, the UK Government had committed close to £5 million towards the revival, and the Welsh Government further supplemented this with a £1.6 million pledge. The station, shut since 1964, was poised to bridge Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire by March 2024.

However, burgeoning expenses, particularly underestimations surrounding signalling alterations, have plunged the project into uncertainty. Simon Hart, MP for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, stated, “The

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miscalculations regarding the signalling costs have been a significant contributor to the funding gap.”

Working in tandem with Samuel Kurtz MS, Mr Hart has sought to exert pressure on the Welsh Government to uphold their commitment to the endeavour. Mr Kurtz commented, “Despite earlier approvals, there’s now ambiguity as the Welsh Government appears to be linking the project to the new hospital’s location. This not only muddles two distinct issues but also casts a shadow over the entire St Clears Railway Station initiative.”

Residents of St Clears, currently relying on the Whitland station located over five miles away, have long awaited the station’s return. This isn’t the first time hopes have been

raised; in the 1970s, a similar proposal to reopen St Clears station was ultimately shelved.

Recent discussions saw politicians host a consultation at the site, joined by local county councillors Carys Jones and Philip Hughes, both ardently supporting the project, as well as officials from Carmarthenshire County Council.

Mr Hart remains optimistic, expressing hope that “costs can be streamlined.” He continued, “I’ve reached out to the Transport Secretary to ensure these funds remain allocated beyond March of the upcoming year.”

However, Mr Kurtz, who plans to address the matter in the Senedd shortly, voiced his concerns: “The Welsh Government’s reluctance to solidify their stance on the station suggests a lack of genuine interest in the developments of West Wales.”

Insurance cost call a year on from Manorbier school fire

A CALL asking how much of a £200,000 insurance excess paid out has been recovered following the devastating fire at Manorbier school a year ago will be heard this week.

Manorbier Church in Wales VC School and its adjoining schoolhouse was severely damaged by a fire on October 11 of last year, which broke out in the school roof space.

Pupils and staff were successfully evacuated with no injuries, and a ‘school from school’ was set up in Jameston Village Hall, after a brief period of sanctuary at the nearby Buttyland caravan site.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s insurers have previously said the fire was accidentally started while ‘hot works’ were being carried out by contractors to renew an adjacent flat roof.

At the March meeting of Cabinet members

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heard that no liability had – at that date – been accepted; the majority of costs likely to be met from the council’s insurers, with the caveat of the unknown issue of liability and its effect on the £200,000 insurance excess.

In a submitted question before the October 12 meeting of the county council, Councillor Aled Thomas will ask:

“The Leader [Cllr David Simpson] said at the March Cabinet that his Cabinet was ‘pursuing’ the contractor that was allegedly involved with causing fire at Ysgol Manobier in relation to recouping the £200,000 loss to council funds paid in insurance excesses on rebuilding Ysgol Manobier.

“Can the leader update council members and members of the public on how many

pounds of this £200,000 have been recouped to date and assure us that they are still pursuing the contractor for the money?”

At the April meeting of the council’s Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee, members heard a final report from the insurers

had been completed.

At that meeting, Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language Guy Woodham said: “The legal issues are not straightforward but will be robustly taken forward.

“At this stage it’s still subject to legal discussion. The excess

will be covered by a fund the council holds for insurance excess.”

He said that, if liability was found or accepted, the council would “pursue for the full maximum claim of the costs associated with the fire”.

A related question has also been submitted by

Councillor Phillip Kidney:

“Could the Cabinet Member for Education please provide an update on the rebuild of Manorbier School over 12 months on from the devastating fire?” Both questions will be answered at the October 12 meeting.

Couple retire after 40 years service to Paul Sartori

AHAVERFORDWEST couple are retiring after four decades of voluntary service for the Paul Sartori Hospice at Home charity.

Mike and Chris Evans, aged 88 and 84, were part of a small group of dedicated people who helped to realise Father Paul Sartori’s vision for end-of-life care in Pembrokeshire after his death in 1980 at the age of 39.

Mike and Chris’s daughter Cath Rendell explained: “Father Sartori was our parish priest, and he was a particularly good friend of theirs and would call at our house very regularly when we were growing up. My parents were aware along with a larger group of friends and parishioners of his wishes to form a hospice. “He was an amazing man and as a family we were very fond of him. When he became ill, he made it clear that he would like his foresight of the hospice in Pembrokeshire to carry on even though he wouldn’t see that through himself.

“My dad, Mike Stalbow, Ted Wilks, Carmel Gould, Michael Burke and others got together and helped to bring his dreams to life. My mum was the chair of the fundraising committee and did a lot of early fundraising. Dad was a trustee.

“That group of people did all the research and went to meet people and visit hospices to find out

the best way to serve the people of Pembrokeshire and keep the dream alive.

My parents have been big supporters ever since.”

In May 1981, the Paul Sartori Foundation was formed with a home care service team of six carers.

Forty years later in 2021, thanks to the early efforts of people like Mike and Chris, the expanded team provided more than 17,000 hours of handson nursing and supplied more than 1,100 pieces of equipment to the public.

Nearly 350 people who die in Pembrokeshire are nursed by PSF, so the charity touches so many families just when they need it most.

In recent years Mike and Chris have also served as voting members – volunteers who provide practical support for the foundation and help in its decisionmaking.

Their son David is currently chair of the trustees.

At the AGM on September 20, one of the charity’s Trustees Paul Lister paid a warm tribute to Mike and Chris.

Paul said: “Mike was an original trustee and has been at the forefront in driving the charity to where it is today. From the beginning Chris has been a force to be reckoned with in raising funds to ensure the future of the charity.

“Along with other stalwart volunteers, she organised and

attended balls, generated raffle prizes, and sold thousands upon thousands of raffle tickets.

“She also organised door to door collections and worked in the shops – to name just a few of the fundraising incentives!

“Both of them were involved in the original ‘bed push fundraiser’ alongside Anthony Sartori, Father Paul Sartori’s brother. They were both involved in one of the first New Year’s Day swims. They organised family fun cycle rides and the original car raffle.”

The charity presented the couple with an honorary voting member certificate and Paul added: “Chris is the epitome of our core values by having a ‘can do’ attitude and investing in and valuing our staff

and volunteers.

“Chris’s fundraising efforts and determination over the years have inspired so many people and our income generation office is now called the ‘Chris Evans Room’ to inspire our team and volunteers who work there today and those who will be a part of the foundation’s future.

“We want to thank Mike and Chris for their outstanding contribution in providing good end of life care in Pembrokeshire.”

The couple will now have more time to themselves, and daughter Cath said it will give them a chance to catch up on gardening, a particular pleasure, and for her father to continue cycling which he still enjoys despite his advanced years.

MIKE EDWARDS

AUTUMN might be the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness for some.

I can tell you that it is bleeding hacking out there.

The wife is a generous soul who lives to give. So she decided to share her love of the great outdoors with me so we could lose weight before Christmas’ overindulgence.

My heart sank twice over. Going outside into the rain, wind, and cold does not fill me with any sense of pleasure. Being a Cardi, the wife is used to a world painted in fifty shades of mud. I prefer feeling the warm sand between my tootie-toes on the beach and soaking up the sun. Living in West Wales means I experience more of the former than the latter. Still, even a person of rapidly advancing years, like me, can dream of balmy sunny days doing bugger all but getting a nice tan by the seaside. Anyway, what the wife needs to lose weight for is beyond me. There’s more fat on a bag of spanners than on her. She has sinews and muscles in places where other people don’t even have places.

As a comfortablypadded individual, I admire her devotion to her physical well-being. I simply prefer being comfortably padded and indoors with a cup of Glengettie and a soothing Bargain Hunt on the telly when the weather is cold. Which brings me to the second reason my heart sank.

The mention of Christmas. There are those

among us who sincerely wish that God didn’t so love the world that he sent his only begotten son to redeem us all.

Suppose the Almighty had known how the missus fights to the death over every Christmas cracker and the level of injury she inflicts wrestling for the wishbone. In that case, he might have decided that the Baby Cheesers would be better off staying on God’s right hand than in Bethlehem. No compassionate deity could contemplate sending an infant to earth if they knew the chaos that Christmas causes in the Edwards household.

Losing weight for Christmas is just the start of a draining festive campaign which plays out every year. There are lists. There are lists of lists. One year, there was even a list of lists which listed lists that had not been otherwise listed. No matter how distant or reviled, every relative has to have a Christmas card – even Uncle Ivor, who once sang along with Swing Low, Sweet Chariot at a Wales-England game. But for now, the wife is testing my patience and endurance by unnecessarily exposing me to the elements. So it is, thoroughly wrapped up in warm clothing, I find myself trudging dolefully through damp grass, navigating dog turds and brambles.

The missus just told me it will soon be the season to be jolly. Thank goodness she missed my festive response as she strode into the distance. Hobloodyho!

Tenby gears up for full fibre broadband

WALES’ leading alternative telecoms provider – Ogi – has revealed plans to bring full fibre connectivity to Tenby, one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic seaside towns.

Tenby is the latest of over 60 communities across south Wales to benefit from Ogi’s privately backed broadband rollout launched in 2021. Once work to connect around 5,000 premises in the town is complete, Ogi will be the leading alternative choice in much of west Wales –connecting homes and businesses to ultrafast internet long before the likes of Openreach and Virgin Media, who have long dominated the south Wales market.

At the moment, average download speeds in the area peak at 51.2Mbps (12.2Mbps upload) according to Thinkbroadband.

Ogi’s Gigabit-capable network will enable homes to access download speeds up to 900Mpbs (90Mbps upload); and businesses to go faster than 2.5Gbps each way for the for the very first time.

One of Wales’s most iconic visitor destinations, Ogi’s network will offer a boost to the Welsh tourism economy, already estimated to be worth around £3billion a year – enabling visitors o Tenby to access the best of both worlds; a traditional seaside experience, alongside access to reliable connectivity for gaming, streaming and even hybrid working.

Ogi propelled onto

the scene in 2021, kick-starting a digital revolution across Wales, with some of the nation’s hardest to reach communities benefiting from the latest full fibre technology sooner than planned by the incumbent [Openreach].

The altnet provider is bringing much needed connectivity to postindustrial towns and villages, whilst also putting in place the long-distance backhaul network that’s needed to secure these

communities’ access to the wider world.

The company has grown from 20 to more than 210 full time staff, with hundreds more supported through its supply chain over the last two years, with the business now operating from four regional hubs in Newport, Cardiff and St Clears, supporting more staff to live and work from where they choose.

Around 40% of premises in Wales now have access to

full fibre connectivity, with Britain in general lagging behind many European countries, where coverage can be well above 90%. Ogi’s latest plan will help another thriving town close the digital divide for good.Announcing Tenby’s rollout, Ogi’s Chief Executive Officer, Ben Allwright, said:

“I’m delighted to be welcoming Tenby – one of Wales’s most iconic seaside towns – to the Ogi network.

“Tourist destinations

like Tenby are bursting with potential – and they deserve the best connectivity to help them thrive. As we’re seeing across Pembrokeshire, only Ogi can make that access a reality right now.

“Our network is helping businesses to grow, wherever they are based; supporting people to work closer to where they live; and opening up even more home entertainment choices.”

Already bosting

high scores on leading review websites like Trustpilot, the service provider is regularly praised for its excellent customer service and reliable network speeds.

Surveying work is already underway with activity due to start at street level in the town over the autumn when local construction embargos are lifted. Homes and businesses in the area will be able to access Ogi’s ultrafast service from early 2024.

Education Minister joins Pembrokeshire Outdoor Schools Celebration Day

TEN Pembrokeshire schools were recently recognised for their commitment to learning in and about the natural environment at an extra special Pembrokeshire Outdoor Schools Celebration Day.

The event, which was held at Scolton Manor near Haverfordwest, saw Welsh Government Minister for Education and the Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles MS present certificates to staff and pupils from the successful schools, who also enjoyed a range of outdoor activities from den building and wildlife identification to mud workshops and minibeast hunts.

PODS partners were also in attendance including representatives from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Darwin Centre, Pembrokeshire County Councill, Tir Coed, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, Keep Wales Tidy and Hywel Dda University Health Board.

The Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles MS, said: “It was great seeing examples of schools and partners in Pembrokeshire working together to provide outdoor experiences for children.

“Outdoor playing and learning instil a life-long respect for nature and the environment and have benefits for children’s mental and physical health, as well as helping them develop problemsolving skills.”

Pembrokeshire Outdoor Schools Co-ordinator, Bryony Rees said: “It was fantastic to be able to introduce the Minister for Education and the Welsh Language to some of the local schools that have made outdoor education a key part of their school curriculum.

“It was particularly fitting to have the two founding PODS headteachers Simon Thomas and Kevin Phelps present to celebrate this milestone as the partnership looks to develop and secure funding to continue its work in the future.”

Kevin Phelps, Headteacher of the Federation

of Tavernspite and Templeton CP Schools added:

“Simon and I were delighted to be invited to this brilliant event. It has been incredible to see an idea that we had many years ago develop into such an important project, bringing high quality outdoor learning experiences to so many of our learners.”

The ten schools that attended the celebration day were Tavernspite CP

School, Templeton CP School, Ysgol Casmael/ Puncheston School, Hook CP School, Pennar Community School, St Teilo’s Catholic Primary School, Penrhyn Church in Wales VC School, Cosheston VC School, Coastlands CP School and Broad Haven CP School.

To find out more about PODS visit www.pembrokeshireoutdoorschools. co.uk.

Dramatic cliffside rescue off cardigan bay

A DRAMATIC rescue operation unfolded off Cardigan Bay on Wednesday evening when a man found himself ensnared amidst thick underbrush atop the cliffs near Penbryn Beach. The beach is nestled a tad over three miles north of Aberporth along the picturesque Ceredigion coastline.

Local lifeboat teams and coastguard units received the distress call from Milford Haven coastguards shortly before 7.30pm, indicating the man’s precarious position surrounded by dense vegetation on the cliff. Though coastguard teams were promptly dispatched to the scene, the thick undergrowth, coupled with diminishing daylight, rendered the search increasingly challenging.

Speaking on the ordeal, a representative from New Quay RNLI

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shared, “It was at this critical juncture that the Milford Haven coastguard beckoned us to leverage our lighting equipment to aid in the man’s location.” The rescue operation saw the deployment of New Quay’s recently acquired Shannon class lifeboat, the “Roy Barker V”. Its potent searchlight proved pivotal, enabling them to pinpoint the stranded individual.

However, the rescue wasn’t over yet. “Given the dense vegetation and challenging terrain, it was unfeasible for our team to directly reach him,” noted a New Quay lifeboat crew member. This predicament necessitated the intervention of the Coastguard helicopter, Rescue 187. Demonstrating their expertise, the helicopter

crew deftly winched the man aboard and subsequently flew him to a prepared landing area set up by the coastguards.

“Thankfully, aside from the evident shock, the gentleman

remained unharmed.

After ensuring his safety, we saw him off to his vehicle,” the crew added.

The incident marked a significant milestone.

As the spokesperson observed, “This wasn’t just an exceptional

multi-agency effort, but it also represented the inaugural rescue for our Roy Barker V.”

Earlier this summer, the Roy Barker V made its debut at New Quay, a culmination of dedicated efforts to maintain an

all-weather lifeboat at the station. Costing a hefty £2.5 million, the Shannon Class now patrols one of the extensive stretches of the West Wales coast, spanning from Barmouth to Fishguard.

Have your say on Pembrokeshire’s polling districts and places

PEMBROKESHIRE

COUNTY COUNCIL says it will carry out a review of polling districts and polling places from October 9.

The Local Authority is keen to hear what electors think about the convenience of voting at polling stations currently used for elections and would welcome suggestions for alternative sites.

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Estate, Milford Haven, SA73 2RR.

You can add your comments and representation via an online feedback form, emailing electoralservices@ pembrokeshire.gov. uk with the completed feedback form or by post to the Electoral Services address above.

All representations must be made by no later than 1st December 2023.

Residents’ views on these comments, which will be published on the

The (Acting) Returning Officer (ARO) for the previous Parliamentary constituencies of Preseli Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire (South Pembrokeshire) and the new Parliamentary constituencies of Ceredigion Preseli (Preseli) and Mid and South Pembrokeshire will comment on the proposals.

Council’s website and available for inspection, are also sought.

The Council would also welcome the views of all residents, particularly disabled residents, or any person or body with expertise in

access for persons with any type of disability.

Anybody making representations should, if possible, give alternative places that may be used as polling places.

Relevant information

regarding the current arrangements and proposals for changes can be found on the Council’s Have Your Say page or can be inspected at: Electoral Services, Unit 23, Thornton Industrial

The outcome of the review will be published by the Council in March 2024 and will be available for inspection.

Anybody making representations should be aware that, upon completion of the review, all correspondence and representations received must, by law, also be published.

Recurring vandalism at Goodwick Moor Nature Reserve

GOODWICK MOOR, one of Pembrokeshire’s pristine natural reserves, once again falls victim to unwarranted vandalism merely weeks after its eagerly anticipated reopening. The reserve, adorned by a new 500-metre boardwalk and a wildlife pond, was refurbished and made accessible to the public last month following a nine-year closure, thanks to a £200,000 funding from the Local Places for Nature Challenge Fund project.

Nurtured back to life by the Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales and supported by Pembrokeshire County Council, the reserve has been met with widespread admiration from the community. Aethne Cooke, from the Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership, extolled its value, describing it as an “important area for nature” easily accessible and visible from Fishguard and Goodwick towns.

However, this reopening, cherished by local residents, has been tarnished by recurrent acts of vandalism, raising questions

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about the protection of public spaces and the conscious effort required to maintain them. Within a week of its reopening, information boards at the reserve were defaced and subsequently, in a seemingly mindless act, all of the panels were torn off and discarded into the reserve, along with damage to other signage.

A spokesperson for the Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales expressed their disheartenment, stating, “It is most depressing when people just don’t show the respect our natural spaces deserve.” They conveyed the grave disappointment shared by many who have witnessed the destruction and disrespect towards the recently revitalized nature reserve.

The desolation left in the wake of these acts of vandalism is a stark contrast to the lush, peaceful landscape that once stood after the reopening, symbolizing a blend of community effort, love for nature, and preservation of local flora and fauna. Such acts of disruption not only

detract from the physical beauty of the reserve but also dishearten the community that has looked forward to the moor’s rebirth. These incidents invoke a pertinent dialogue about the preservation of natural reserves and public spaces, nudging

communities and authorities alike to foster a culture of respect and care towards shared environments. Not only is it vital to instil a collective sense of responsibility and appreciation towards nature and shared public spaces, but also imperative to

reinforce preventative measures, surveillance, and accountability to safeguard these areas from further destruction.

As the spokesperson requests the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police, it echoes a broader call for collective

efforts in preserving and respecting public and natural spaces. It is through unified community solidarity, reinforced by supportive legal frameworks, that such spaces can be protected and enjoyed by generations to come.

Hundreds of miles of footpath lost in Pembrokeshire over past century

IN AN AGE where appreciating the serene embrace of nature has become not only a leisure activity but a crucial component for mental and physical health, the disappearance of hundreds of miles of public rights of way in Pembrokeshire comes as a stark revelation.

Recent meticulous analysis by The Ramblers, a prominent charity advocating for walkers, reveals a considerable 378mile deficit in protected footpath within the former boundaries of Pembrokeshire since the dawn of the 20th century. This reduction, unveiled by comparing historic and modern maps, posits a significant decline in spaces legally available for the public to engage in activities such as walking, cycling, and horse riding.

On a broader scale, The Ramblers, in collaboration with the New Economics Foundation

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think tank, divulged that the average postcode in Pembrokeshire is endowed with a mere 3,000 metres of footpath accessible within a 10-minute walk. In comparison, the average across Welsh postcodes slightly edges higher,

offering approximately 3,500 metres.

Despite the available footpaths, the charity accentuates a pervasive inequality in access, wherein nature’s offerings tend to be more readily accessible to “the old, the healthy, the wealthy and the white”, according to Jack Cornish, Head of Paths at the Ramblers.

Cornish underscores the “massive impact” that accessible walking routes can wield on health outcomes.

This revelation becomes even more poignant considering that almost 50,000 miles of public right of way have vanished across England and Wales over the last century. With the Welsh

Government recognising and exploring the substantial benefits of “social prescribing” –advocating for physical activities such as walking and cycling as either alternatives or companions to medical treatments – the loss of such public pathways is particularly detrimental.

The plight is palpably present in the figures as well, with data from the Welsh Government revealing a dip from 60% to approximately 50% in the proportion of people walking over 10 minutes to a destination weekly, comparing 2019-20 to 2022-23.

In light of these findings, The Ramblers has articulated a robust call for a £650 million investment in paths across England and Wales, a move they argue could yield remarkable dividends in amplifying the nation’s health and wellbeing.

A spokesperson for the Department for the Environment, Food and

Rural Affairs responded to these revelations stating, “We are committed to increasing access to nature and our Environmental Improvement Plan sets out our ambition for every household to be within a 15-minute walk of a green or blue space.”

The Department further elucidated efforts towards enhancing access via a £14.5 million ‘Access for All’ programme, which encapsulates a suite of targeted measures aimed at elevating the accessibility of protected landscapes, national trails, and the wider countryside for all demographics.

In a world progressively aware of the integral relationship between nature and wellbeing, the restoration and preservation of public footpaths emerges not merely as an environmental concern, but a pivotal health and societal one.

Alternatives to tree planting can achieve equivalent reductions in emissions

THE FARMERS’ Union of Wales has outlined how alternatives to tree planting can achieve equivalent reductions in emissions while also delivering a broad range of benefits at the Plaid Cymru conference, which was held on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 October 2023, in Aberystwyth.

Hosting a fringe event on Friday, 6 October 2023, the Union highlighted that tree planting is just one of the many ways in which net Welsh carbon emissions can be reduced.

Presenting the latest available statistics to delegates, the FUW highlighted that in 2019, Welsh energy production was responsible for 10,953,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Offsetting this, Union officials stressed, would require around 1.1 million hectares of land to be planted with trees.

“If all current Welsh emissions were to be offset by tree planting, this would require an area around twice the size of Wales to be planted with trees,”

said FUW President Ian Rickman.

There are a number of alternatives that can be adopted on-farm to achieve the equivalent reductions in emissions, and many of these have multiple benefits not only for individual farms but also on Welsh society in general, added Mr Rickman.

“These could include renewable energy production, other forms of carbon storage and sequestration or improving livestock efficiency.

“As we move towards the final consultation phase of the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), we want to see a scheme that looks at farming and climate change as a collective rather than in isolation. For instance, planting trees and offshoring our food production to places with far worse emissions and environmental standards will actually make matters worse on a global level.”

Delegates heard that for large numbers of farms, meeting the 10% tree cover requirement would severely

impact on their viability and capacity to produce food, while for certain categories of farm meeting such a requirement would be impossible. Under current proposals, this would prevent them from being able to access any form of support through the SFS.

“We know that the Welsh Government recognised a number of farm types and land categories where meeting this threshold would not be possible - but far more concessions are needed if large numbers of farm businesses are to avoid severe impacts.

“Tree planting is just one of the many ways in which net Welsh carbon emissions can be reduced. We want to see an SFS that has flexibility so farmers can engage with a scheme that works for their businesses and achieves the outcomes Welsh Government are looking for,” said the Union President.

Furthermore, the FUW highlighted that under its plans, the Welsh Government also aims to see Wales meet 100% of

its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2035. However, as demand for electric vehicles and other alternatives to fossil fuels increases, electricity demand is also set to increase.

“It’s estimated that this will increase demand for electricity in the UK by around 10% of current UK production by 2030, rising to between 20% and 33% by 2050 and increasing production of hydrogen for use as an alternative to fossil fuels in certain vehicles will also increase demand for electricity (which is used to create hydrogen),” said FUW Head of Policy Dr Nick Fenwick.

Delegates also heard that between 1990 and 2020 the contribution of energy supply to the UK and Wales’ GHG emissions fell by 70% and 55% respectively, with renewable energy produced on farmland playing a central role in these reductions.

Since Feed in Tariffs were removed in 2019, on-farm investment into renewable energy

production has slowed down significantly.

Increasing renewable energy production is critical not only to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also Welsh and UK energy security - the importance of which has been highlighted by the fallout from Russia’s war on Ukraine.

Delegates heard that small, sometimes insignificant areas given over to renewable energy production could offset carbon emissions manyfold more efficiently per unit area than tree planting, resulting in increased energy security for farms,

communities and Wales as a whole.

“While an increase in tree planting must form part of the solution to climate change, the FUW believes that the proposed 10% tree cover requirement due to be introduced under the Sustainable Farming Scheme from 2025 is onedimensional and fails to recognise the role of other mitigation measures that would have far less impact on Welsh farms and food production and result in broader benefits for Wales,” added FUW Senior Policy and Communications Officer Gareth Parry.

Father and daughter walk 175 miles for Pembrokeshire cancer services

FATHER and daughter Geoffrey Eynon and Angharad Smiriglia walked 175 miles and raised £2,775 for Pembrokeshire Cancer Services.

The pair walked for 70 days on the lead up to Geoffrey’s 70th birthday to commemorate the important milestone.

10 years ago, Geoffrey was diagnosed with chordoma, a very rare type of bone cancer that affects one in 800,000 people every year.

Geoffrey said: “After various hospital consultations, scans and biopsies, it was decided to remove the tumor by excision. Thankfully I made a full recovery following the surgery and have remained free of the disease for 10 years.”

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

“We would like to thank everyone who donated and say thank you for every well wish we received. A special thank you to Katie in the fundraising team for her guidance and encouragement throughout.

“We would also like to use this opportunity to thank every professional that supported Dad on his cancer journey 10 years ago, both locally and further afield, and those who dedicate their lives to supporting people on their cancer journeys. We dedicate our fundraising efforts to you all.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official NHS charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “We

Angharad said: “We are totally overwhelmed with the support and messages of goodwill sent to us during our challenge. It was difficult on some days getting out in bad weather, but the support and donations helped push us on and complete the challenge.

would like to say a big thank you to Geoffrey and Angharad for their

kind donation. The support of our local communities enables

us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide, and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

Residents of Llandeloy celebrate £1 million Postcode Lottery win

SEAN EDWARDS, a Pembrokeshire Plumber, Celebrates £400,000 Lottery Triumph During Work at Actor Jerome Flynn’s Residence

In a startling intersection of luck and celebrity, Sean Edwards, a 51-year-old plumber from Pembrokeshire, learned of his £400,000 lottery win while conducting plumbing work within the attic of “Game of Thrones” star Jerome Flynn. The remarkable news was delivered through a call from the People’s Postcode Lottery while Sean was engaged in renewing a hot water system at the actor’s residence.

Edwards, who resides in the quaint village of Llandeloy, shared the substantial £1 million jackpot with three of his neighbours after their postcode, SA62 6LJ, was unveiled as the recipient of the weekly Millionaire Street prize

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on Saturday, October 7. Notably, each ticket was valued at £200,000, but Edwards managed to double his winnings by

securing two tickets.

A Shift of Fortune: Sean’s Future Plans with Fiancée Caroline

Sean, a devoted father of two and also a tenant farmer, and his fiancée Caroline Key, 47, are bathing in jubilation following this unexpected windfall. The couple, already parents to a blended family of five daughters, and engaged since last year, have now solidified their wedding plans, propelled by their newfound financial ease.

Moreover, the substantial winnings have catalysed plans to transition from plumbing to the operation of a therapy farm — a dream long nurtured by the couple. Presently, Sean and Caroline maintain a tenancy on a parcel of land where they breed sheep and sustain a varied livestock including goats, cows, and geese. Caroline envisions establishing a therapy centre on a larger farm, aiming to serve both children and adults grappling with mental health and mobility challenges.

Journey Toward a Therapeutic Agricultural Enterprise

Affectionately

nicknamed “Sean the Sheep” and “Mrs. Sheep” respectively, Sean and Caroline are among the final three applicants for the council tenancy of an expanded farm. The envisioned therapy centre would afford visitors an immersive, therapeutic experience in agricultural life, as Caroline articulated: “We want people to… experience the farming side of things.” She acknowledged the clichéd yet authentic assertion that farming has insinuated itself as their way of life.

The couple’s forthcoming venture is driven by an earnest desire to integrate their way of life with a purposeful, communityoriented endeavour, and this substantial lottery win has fortuitously aligned with these aspirations.

Community Prosperity: Shared Joy in Llandeloy

The spirit of camaraderie permeates the small community of Llandeloy, now colloquially termed “Millionaire Row”, following the substantial wins of several residents.

Alan Pike, a 57-year-old former Royal Logistics

Corps sergeant, and Maria Perkins, 55, were also among the fortunate neighbours, each gleefully receiving £200,000.

Expressing genuine happiness for the fellow victors, Sean remarked, “We’re a small, closeknit community…I’m so pleased for the others who’ve won, because they’re friends and they are genuinely lovely people.”

In addition to harnessing his newfound wealth toward collective and personal dreams, Sean also harbours a somewhat loftier ambition — to pilot a Formula 1 car around a track, a dream that now resides within the realm of possibility.

The unfolding tale of Sean, Caroline, and their community underscores a heartfelt narrative wherein unexpected fortune catalyses dreams, strengthens community ties, and fosters endeavours poised to enrich the lives of others. And so, the small village of Llandeloy not only basks in collective financial prosperity but also in the enriched community spirit and the promising ventures that lie ahead.

Tom

Co-own a farm in West Wales for just £100

AN EXCITING opportunity has arisen to be a part owner of a rural farm estate, while securing and safeguarding the future of Clynfyw Farm.

Readers are welcome to join an event at Clynfyw on October 14th (morning) where you can have a look around and find out more, or online on the evening of October 12th

Located in Abercych, North Pembrokeshire, Clynfyw Farm has been farmed by the LewisBowen family since the 1750s. It has offered high-quality accessible accommodation and has been an awardwinning pioneer of community focussed farm diversification for over 30 years. Now home to ten people living in supported accommodation, and a Care Farm open to

everyone, particularly those vulnerable and marginalised, its future is to become a true community asset.

But to achieve our

CBS, John Morgan said “Grab your chance now to own shares in this wonderful farm, have a say in what happens next, and help secure its

future as a community hub, providing care farm opportunities and developing and supporting local resilience.”

Council secures replacement for fflecsi Bwcabus

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has announced a welcome boost to local transport services by securing a replacement for the popular fflesci Bwcabus that was due to end this month.

The Bwcabus service had been due to finish on October 31st following the ending of Welsh Government funding through the Rural Development Programme grant.

Using some of the existing local

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bus service budget, Pembrokeshire County Council has funded a replacement service with operator Richards Bros from Wednesday November 1st until March 31st 2024. The service will operate from 7am until 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, with the 642 and 644 fixed routes continuing to operate.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services,

said: “I am delighted that the Council has been able to step in and fund a replacement for the Bwcabus service until the end of March next year and I thank officers for their work on this.

“We know that the service is so important to many people in some of the most rural areas of Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion.”

Bookings can continue to be made via the fflecsi app or by phoning 0300 234 0300.

vision to have the farm community owned, we need to raise £550,000 through our first community share offer. Chair of Clynfyw

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Welsh Black takes top prize in photo competition

THE FARMERS’ Union of Wales has chosen its winning photograph for the 2024 charity calendar, which will be available to buy from county offices and at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair (27 and 28 November 2023), with £1 per sale going towards the FUW President’s charity, the Wales Air Ambulance.

The Welsh Black with Cadair Idris in the background was taken by Sarah Carr and chosen as the top prize image. It will feature on the cover of the new calendars for 2024.

The other winners are: Rebecca Williams; Adrienne Thorpe; Elliw Jones-Evans; Adrian Morgan; Tracey Evans; Grace Marshall; Helen Powell; Chloe Hyde; Elliw Baines Roberts; Andrew Roberts and Gwenllian Evans.

The top prize for the

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

front cover photograph is £250, which will be presented to Sarah Carr on the Monday at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair. The other winners of the competition, whose photographs are displayed in the calendar, will receive a copy of the bilingual calendar.

FUW President Ian Rickman said: “The competition has proven popular again this year and it was a pleasure to look through the entries. It was no easy task mind, as so many wonderful images were sent in from across Wales.

“What this competition has highlighted again is that farming matters to all of us in one way or another and that our family farms are vital in not just the way

of life here in Wales, but also in looking after the countryside and our livestock.

Congratulations to all the winners and thank you for showcasing farming and our countryside in such a wonderful way.”

The calendars ill be available to buy from

your local county office (keep a lookout on our social media pages as to when they will be available). They will also be sold on the FUW stand at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair for £5 each with £1 per sale going towards the President’s charity, the Wales Air Ambulance.

Deputy Minister hears of school’s support for equality

A DEPUTY Welsh Government Minister paid a visit to Haverfordwest High VC School last week to discuss how the school promotes equality and inclusion.

Headteacher Jane Harries welcomed Hannah Blythyn MS, Deputy Minister for Social Partnership, on Thursday September 28th.

Ms Blythyn met with Cllr Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member for Education & Welsh Language, Steven Richards-Downes, Director for Education, representatives of UNISON and members of staff and pupils involved in PCC Equity and Diversity pupil forum and the school’s Rainbow Club.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Ms Blythyn had requested the visit after Dan Phillips, an LSA at the school, gave a presentation to the Joint Council of Wales where he talked about the support the school put in place for him during his

gender transition.

The staff and pupils shared with Ms Blythyn the challenges in society surrounding equity for all and how the school was supporting them in dealing with these challenges.

Ms Blythyn and guests were keen to discuss how the Welsh Government and the Local Authority could help address these challenges.

Mrs Harries, said: “It was a privilege to welcome the Deputy

Minister to Haverfordwest High VC School. We are extremely proud that Ms Blythyn specifically requested the visit after hearing of Mr Phillips’ positive experience.

“As a school we are committed to ensuring

equity for all and it was great for pupils and staff to be able to outline the support available here at Haverfordwest High.”

Cllr Woodham added: “It was a pleasure to attend Haverfordwest High, alongside the Deputy Minister, and have the opportunity to speak with Mr Philips and members of the school’s Rainbow Club.

“Learning about equality, diversity and inclusion, especially from those with lived experiences, is important not just for our learners but for us all.

“I applaud the work undertaken in this area by Haverfordwest High and look forward to working with them in the near future, hopefully alongside others, who are also progressing this important area of activity.”

School catering staff shortlisted for multiple Wales wide industry awards

THE FANTASTIC work of Pembrokeshire

County Council’s catering service has been recognised with not one but six places on the shortlist of this year’s LACA Wales awards.

The annual Local Authority Caterers Association (LACA) Wales Recognition of Excellence Awards will be held later this month and a group of the Pembrokeshire team will be there to celebrate their achievements.

The event showcases individuals and teams who continue to make a real difference to education catering and school food with a record number of high-quality submission considered by organisers this year.

Tom Sinclair

Editor@herald.email

Pembrokeshire County Council’s catering service has been shortlisted in five categories including for an Innovation Award and a Community Impact Award, the latter for the work with the community soup nights.

School Catering Team of the Year could be won by the teams at Haverfordwest High

or Tenby VC School while Area Supervisors Sian Davies and Emma Williams are in with a chance of taking home a Shining Star Award.

Catering Management Team of the Year could also be awarded to

Pembrokeshire.

On the night the prestigious LACA Wales Region Chair’s Award will also be presented to a special individual or group of people, as decided by the regional committee, in acknowledgement

of what can be very different contributions to education catering in Wales.

Cabinet Member for Education and the Welsh Language Cllr Guy Woodham said:

“The Catering teams all work incredibly hard

so it is fantastic to see that recognised by the LACA. To be shortlisted for such prestigious awards when up against nominations across Wales is an achievement in itself and they should all be extremely proud.”

Secondary school places deadline approaching

PARENTS of Year 6 pupils in Pembrokeshire will need to apply for a secondary school place for September 2024 by the closing date of December 20th 2023.

Applications received after this date will be considered late which may have a bearing on whether the child gets a place at his/her preferred school.

There is no automatic admission to a secondary school, even if they are living in catchment – an application must be made.

Parents of pupils in Year 6 at Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, Ysgol Bro Preseli or Ysgol Caer Elen do not need to apply as

they are attending 3 to 16 schools and it is assumed they will remain in their current schools.

However, if parents wish to apply for a different secondary school they must apply within the deadlines noted above.

It is important to note that a school place will not be allocated unless a formal application is received.

The online application form can be found on the Pembrokeshire County Council website under ‘Apply for a School Place’.

Parents/guardians will be informed of the allocation of places on the common offer date of 1 March 2024.

Milford Haven School receives ‘Mental Health Matters School’ award

MILFORD HAVEN School and Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind mark World Mental Health Day with school award!

Every year we acknowledge World Mental Health Day on 10 October. World Mental Health Day is a chance to talk about mental health, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to get help if you are struggling.

At Milford Haven School and Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind this is a part of every day!

Tracey Price CEO of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind said “We are proud to award Milford Haven School our first ever Mental Health Matters School Award. We’re very happy to recognise the whole school for their commitment to mental health awareness and support across pupils and staff. We also hope that seeing their success will encourage other local schools to get in touch about becoming a Mental Health Matters School!”

dozen times this year.

To provide mental health classes for every student in every year group.

Mind Pembrokeshire have been invited to Milford Haven School a

To attend wellbeing fayres to share information about local services and how they can help.

To receive trauma training alongside the entire staff team and to inform them on healthy lifestyle choices that can improve feelings of wellbeing.

Mind information

is available every day throughout the school including quick tips on wellbeing topics like sleep, panic attacks, relaxation and more.

Milford Haven School Headteacher Ms Ceri-

Ann Morris said “Our pupils’ mental health and wellbeing are of paramount importance. At Milford Haven School we have created a safe place where pupils are not only encouraged to flourish academically but are also supported throughout all of the challenges of their adolescent life. We offer our pupils a diverse range of both internal and external services in the form of counselling, mentoring, PSE lessons, school nurse appointments and pupil and teacher led support groups. All of these services are available to every single child. As a result of our ongoing and relentless commitment to pupil and staff wellbeing, we have been awarded the Mind Mental Health Matters Award. Our staff and pupils are proud to be one of the first schools in Pembrokeshire to have received this award.”

A seagull’s soar over middle eastern horizons

GREETINGS

from the skies, dear readers! Stephen

Seagull here. Squark! Though I usually coast over the beautiful Pembrokeshire coastline, today I’ve decided to share some

reflections from a much higher altitude, touching upon the

turbulent currents in the Middle East.

For nearly 45 years, I’ve soared and witnessed the ebbs and flows of countless conflicts. The IsraeliPalestinian conflict has long mirrored the turbulent waves below me – ever-present, and at times, raging uncontrollably. Last weekend, however, was particularly alarming, echoing the haunting memories of the Sabra and Shatila massacre in Beirut, 1982. The driving force behind such ruthless acts isn’t just about territorial gains anymore; it’s something more visceral.

Hovering above, I recently spotted an image that struck a chord. An Israeli delegation in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was pictured praying against the city’s skyline. A symbol of hope and acceptance for many Israelis, but for many Palestinians, it’s a stark reminder of the geopolitical shifts. The crux? Many perceive it as a manifestation of Netanyahu’s quest for regional peace, even if it sidelines the Palestinian cause.

It’s clear that the recent onslaught is a defiant response from Hamas. They seem

determined to disrupt Israel’s diplomatic relations with Arab states, especially after witnessing the growing warmth between Israel and several Arab nations.

Taking a spiral up, I note that President Biden has firmly stood by Israel’s side. But it’s crucial to tread cautiously. Reacting in haste, especially with a full-scale invasion of Gaza, might be playing right into the hands of adversaries like Hamas and Iran.

Ah, diplomacy! From the skies, it looks much like the intricate ballet of flocking birds – synchronization is key. To attain lasting peace, Netanyahu must recognize the importance of aligning with the ideals of democratic Israel and consider compromising with the more constructive elements within Palestinian society.

My heart, although set on the next fish I spot, beats with hope for a peaceful horizon. As I soar back to the Pembrokeshire shores, I dream of a world below where serenity reigns, much like the calm after a storm, with clear skies for all to soar. Safe journeys, dear friends.

Save MoneY on Your Heating and electricit Y todaY!

IN A WORLD grappling with the urgency of climate change and the imperative of energy conservation, companies like Eco Home Insulation are leading the way, not just as businesses but as champions of a greener and more sustainable future.

Founded by Managing Director Daniel Marsden in 2018, Eco Home Insulation has become a beacon of hope for those grappling with skyrocketing household bills and the looming energy crisis.

The Silent Hero: Home Insulation

Home insulation may not be the flashiest topic, but its impact is nothing short of extraordinary.

A well-insulated home acts as a thermal shield, keeping the indoor environment comfortable all year round. But the benefits extend far beyond mere comfort.

The foremost benefit of home insulation is its ability to significantly reduce energy consumption. By preventing heat from escaping during the winter

and keeping cool air in during the summer, insulation reduces the need for constant heating and cooling leading to substantial energy savings and translating into lower energy bills.

Eco Home Insulation: A trusted partner

There is no denying that the cost of living has soared, and the energy crisis has left many families struggling to keep up with their bills. In response, Daniel Marsden and his team at Eco Home Insulation are now committed to not just having a positive impact on the environment, but also helping their customers save money on their household bills through grant-funded insulation, heating, and renewable measures.

Eco Home Insulation is a shining example of a company that understands the intricate relationship between sustainable living and financial prudence. Their commitment to the environment and their customers is evident in every aspect of their work.

A Helping Hand in Tough Times

In an era where climate change is no longer a distant threat, but an immediate concern, Eco Home Insulation’s mission to reduce the carbon footprint remains steadfast. However, their expansion into providing financial relief couldn’t be timelier. The cost of living has placed immense pressure on households, and the energy crisis has created uncertainty. Eco Home Insulation stands as a guiding light, offering a helping hand to those in need by making grant-funded insulation, heating, and renewable measures available to eligible customers via the ECO4 scheme. This initiative allows homeowners to improve their homes, reduce energy bills, and lower their carbon footprint at no cost. You can check your potential eligibility for these measures on Eco Home Insulation’s website at http:// www.ecohomeinsulation.co.uk/

P EMBROKESHIRE , the picturesque jewel of Wales, is known for its stunning landscapes and pristine coastlines.

But this tranquil corner of the world is now also becoming a shining example of how renewable energy can transform communities, thanks to the pioneering efforts of the local solar business Solwr.wales.

In recent years, Solar Photovoltaic (PV) power has emerged as a game-changer in the renewable energy sector. Solar panels, perched on rooftops and scattered across the landscape, are converting sunlight into clean, sustainable electricity. Pembrokeshire, with its abundance of sunlight, is ideally positioned to embrace this green revolution.

The Benefits

Solar PV power is not just about environmental sustainability; it brings

an array of benefits to both residential and commercial customers.

One of the most appealing aspects of solar energy is its ability to drastically reduce energy bills for businesses. By generating their own electricity, local businesses can cut their reliance on expensive grid power and, in some cases, even sell excess energy back to the grid.

Beyond financial savings, solar PV power also reduces our carbon footprint. This renewable energy source produces zero greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making it a vital tool in the fight against climate change.

Pembrokeshire’s residents understand the importance of preserving their breathtaking natural surroundings, and solar power aligns perfectly with these values.

Solwr: The Local Experts Leading the charge

in Pembrokeshire’s solar revolution is the homegrown business Solwr.wales. With years of experience and a deep commitment to their community, Solwr. wales has emerged as the go-to expert for solar PV installation in both residential and commercial, agricultural, and hospitality settings. Their dedicated team of professionals work closely with local businesses to design bespoke solar solutions tailored to their specific needs. Solwr.wales understands that each project is unique, and they approach each one with the same level of passion and expertise.

Solwr’s impressive portfolio of solar installations across Pembrokeshire speaks volumes about their commitment to quality and sustainability, covering a wide range of structures, from cozy family-owned enterprises to large commercial enterprises, their projects have become shining examples of what solar power can achieve.

The business’s dedication to local communities is evident

in their partnerships with local organisations and their involvement in community initiatives, they position themselves as local experts in the field, providing guidance and advice on anything solar. Solwr.wales’ commitment

to building a cleaner and brighter future is of paramount importance to the team, as is a commitment to helping families and businesses save money on their energy bills.

Swansea’s Logic Festival to return in 2024

THE PULSATING beats, ethereal light shows, and the euphoric collective of electronic music enthusiasts: Swansea’s Logic Festival, an event that has persistently captured the spirit of the UK’s vibrant dance scene, is primed to return in all its glory on June 15, 2024.

The festival, a pivotal gathering for dance music connoisseurs, has been absent from our summer calendars since 2019, with the pandemic forcing us into a hiatus, pausing the raving and revelry that once permeated Ynysforgan Farm. Yet, 2024 promises to be the year where the paused beats resume, amplifying through the verdant meadows of Morriston once again.

Taking place at Ynysforgan Farm, Morriston, SA6 6QL, the event is not just a revival but a bold reimagining of its previous incarnations. The organisers, unswayed by the challenges of the last few years, have pledged a festival that’s set to be “bigger and

better” than ever before, affirming a renaissance of the beloved dance festival.

In its previous iterations, Logic Festival had been a tapestry of sound, welcoming prominent artists from the dance scene. The 2018 affair saw industry luminary, Judge Jules, headline the event, vibrating the tranquil Welsh countryside with resonant beats and enchanting melodic sequences across five distinct arenas. With a spectacular 12-hour extravaganza of non-stop music, the festival was not merely an event; it was a day-long journey into the heart of electronic dance music, where every beat told a story and every transition sparked a cascade of shared energy among the attendees.

Yet, the 2024 instalment promises to elevate this further.

Though the line-up remains under wraps, with the history of procuring stellar acts like Argy, Will Rees, and Darren Styles, festival-goers can anticipate a well-

curated roster of talent that will once again merge legendary icons with the fresh faces sculpting the future of the genre.

The expansiveness of the festival is not confined merely to its auditory offerings but extends to an immersive experience that is expected to intertwine visual artistry with the sonic. The undulating rhythms of the festival will be accentuated by a spectacle of lights, providing not just an auditory, but a viscerally immersive experience.

Tickets, yet to be released, are projected to be in high demand, with the memories of previous years’ vibrancy and the pent-up anticipation of the festival’s return acting as key drivers. In 2018, ticket prices were pocket-friendly, fostering inclusivity and ensuring the festival was accessible to all lovers of dance music, and it’s anticipated that 2024 will mirror this ethos.

For both long-time fans and newcomers alike, Logic Festival 2024 will not just be a return but a re-emergence into

a world where the music connects, communicates, and, for a day, creates a utopia where every beat is a heartbeat shared amongst a community of music lovers

Get ready to mark your

calendars, ensure your dancing shoes are well polished, and prepare to lose yourself in a world where the beats per minute dictate the rhythm of the soul. The longawaited return of Logic

Festival is on the horizon, and it promises to be a symphonic spectacle unlike any other.

Keep an eye out for further updates

Private Lives - A Rave Review

IF YOU’RE looking for a night of flawless, sensational, saucy and divine entertainment, then look no further than the Torch Theatre’s production of Noël Coward’s Private Lives directed by Chelsey Gillard. Gillard’s directorial debut at the Torch Theatre is nothing short of amazing, flawlessly blending witty physical humour with Coward’s iconic satirical words.

There’s a reason Noël Coward never goes out of fashion- his plays are just so deliciously good. Amazingly, although written almost 90 years ago it’s still so lively, clever, witty, acerbic, and remains utterly relevant. Today, the newspapers are bursting with scandals and as a society, we devour the details of peoples Private Lives. The way these characters are written provides much-needed entertainment as the three-act play takes the audience on a rollercoaster romp, featuring an air of sophistication, cocktails, and the looming spectre of domestic violence and codependency.

The play follows the story of two ex-spouses, Elyot and Amanda, who coincidentally end up honeymooning with their new spouses Sibyl and Victor in adjacent rooms at a French hotel. As the two former lovers reconnect, their passion reignites. The ensuing chaos, as well as the witty, dark, satirical dialogue of campiness fun, are sprinkled throughout, which drew me in and kept me engaged from start to finish.

The cast is simply sensational, each embodying their characters with remarkable accuracy. The chemistry between the two lead actors, when portraying Amanda and Elyot, is particularly impressive, and their witty banter and repartee are a joy to watch. With just four characters and a maid, in only two locations, it is very much Coward’s script on show and heavy leg work for our lead couple. Claire Cage is Amanda, potentially one of my

favourite female roles in theatre. Androgynous, comedically immoral, and panther-like. Cage’s interpretation has flair with an air of finesse and sophistication. sublimely good, faultlessly funny, quick to ignite and utterly committed. Her best moments are the later scenes where Amanda and Elyot (François Pandolfo) ricochet off each other. They have a blinding spark together and, although in a deeply unhealthy relationship, are engaging to watch.

François plays the suave eccentric British gentleman spot-on, confident in this controversial role: unreliably mischievous, with such a flamboyant flavour!

It doesn’t end there. Paisley Jackson as Sibyl is sensational and just brilliant making her Welsh debut, truly making the role her own as is Jude Deeno who completes the quartet with another victorious performance as Victor. Giving the character an energetic quality and full of charm.

As I previously mentioned in my first impressions review all four actors have given such standout performances as each portray the complexity of their characters with skill and nuance which was truly remarkable.

The lavish sets and elegant costumes designed by Kevin Jenkins truly transport you to the decadent era

of the 1930s. From the opulent furnishings of the Parisian hotel suite Balconies to the stunning lavish Paris apartment, every detail is perfectly crafted to create a truly immersive experience. The Torch Theatre itself is a stunning venue, and the intimate setting adds to the overall atmosphere of the performance. The lighting by Ceri James and the sound design is also top-notch, perfectly complementing the action on stage.

Director Chelsey Gillard warrants a standing ovation for her treatment of the material. Her direction is crisp and concise but allows the energy to flow. It helps having such a cast of this quality but she should be proud of this play. Gillard chooses to confront the ugliness at the heart of this brittle comedy rather than shying away from it. The result is an extraordinarily powerful examination of a relationship that has turned sour and is played out with mesmerising intensity. I and fellow reviewer Val Ruloff have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of Private Lives at the Torch and we feel confident in saying that we would gladly like to revisit this fabulous production. Overall, Private Lives is an absolute must-see for fans of Noel Coward and lovers of great theatre alike. With its flawless direction, sensational cast, and divine production values, this is one show

Highly Anticipated Production of ‘Gypsy’

VISION Theatre Company Announces Highly Anticipated Production of “Gypsy” Featuring Three Generations of Talented Performers

Vision Theatre Company is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of the beloved musical “Gypsy,” featuring an unprecedented showcase of three generations from the same family in the iconic roles of Rose, June, and Baby June. This dazzling production will captivate audiences at the Boulevard Theatre, Milford Haven from November 30th to December 2nd.

“Gypsy” is a timeless masterpiece that tells the extraordinary story of Rose, a determined and ambitious showbiz mother, and her daughters, June and Louise. Set against the backdrop of the dazzling world of burlesque and vaudeville, this musical is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts of all ages.

What sets Vision Theatre Company’s production of “Gypsy” apart is the inclusion of three talented actresses who are related by blood, creating a unique and compelling dynamic on stage. The incomparable matriarch, Rose, will be portrayed by the seasoned and renowned performer, Terri Harrison. Terri has acted and directed for many am-dram companies across the county for many years and has been a stalwart of Vision Theatre Company since its very first production in 2021, when she played Chris in the critically acclaimed Calendar Girls - The MusicalHer portrayal of Rose is sure to be a tour de force.

Joining Terri are her daughter, Naomi Hicks and granddaughter, Darcie Hicks who will bring to life the characters of June and Baby June, respectively. This

extraordinary family trio will undoubtedly bring an unparalleled level of authenticity and chemistry to their performances, making this production of “Gypsy” truly unforgettable.

“We are thrilled to have three generations of incredible talent come together for this production,” said Drew Baker, director of Gypsy. “Their shared history and real-life connection will undoubtedly bring a depth and emotional resonance to the story that is unmatched. Audiences

are in for a remarkable experience.”

The Boulevard Theatre, known for its intimate setting and exceptional productions, will serve as the perfect backdrop for this extraordinary performance. Located in the heart of Milford Haven, the theatre provides a unique and immersive experience that will transport audiences into the world of “Gypsy.”

Tickets for Vision Theatre Company’s production of “Gypsy” are now on sale and can be purchased online at www.visionartswales.

com. With limited seating available, it is highly recommended to secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the magic of three generations of talent coming together on stage. Join Vision Theatre Company from November 30th to December 2nd at the Boulevard Theatre in Milford Haven for a truly unforgettable experience.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www. visionartswales.com.

Newport FooD FeStIVAL: 29th oct - 4th NoV

IN AN age where quality cooking and eating are paramount, Newport Food Festival presents a unique opportunity for children and families to immerse themselves in the world of delicious food, history, and community. Set to take place during Wales’ halfterm week, this festival promises days filled with excitement and culinary exploration.

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF COOKING WITH JENNY CHANDLER

Renowned chef Jenny Chandler will lead the charge, making cooking easy and fun for children. On Monday, October 30th, at 3:00 PM, head over to the picturesque Trewern Arms by the river Nanhyfer. Here, Jenny will guide young chefs in creating mouthwatering burgers using local seasonal vegetables and beans grown right here in the UK. Make sure to secure your spot by booking in advance.

HANDS-ON LEARNING AND CULINARY CREATIVITY

Children will roll up their sleeves and dive into the culinary world.

They’ll use their hands to create, make delightful dips, select ingredients and flavors, and even determine quantities. The highlight of their day will be savoring their personalized burgers hot from the oven. But that’s not all—parents, it’s your turn at 6:00 PM to witness cooking demos and taste the delectable results.

Jenny Chandler, who hails from Bristol and is renowned for her ability to make sustainable, local, and seasonal food both irresistible and easy, will share her culinary journey with Jessica Seaton, the founder of TOAST. These inspirational women are integral to the Newport Food Festival, a week filled with engaging food and farming activities.

FRIDAY MORNING HARVEST AT NEVERN VALLEY VEG

Kickstart your Friday with a visit to Nevern Valley Veg at 10:00 AM, a budding organic horticulture farm run by a passionate young couple. Naomi, who grew up just 2 miles away, combines the noble task of feeding people with nurturing the local ecosystem, including bees, butterflies, voles,

birds, and countless microscopic creatures. Discover their sustainable farming practices and their innovative use of solar energy to power their water system.

A DAY OF CREATIVITY AND FOOD AT NEWPORT HALL

Following the morning harvest, the produce will be transported to Newport Hall, where BlueGreen Cymru will guide children in preparing meals together and engaging in arts activities to foster their creativity and culinary imagination.

MEET THE CULINARY VISIONARIES

After lunch, prepare to be captivated by Myfanwy of Rebel Kitchen, who will share her magic of providing haute cuisine to the masses while cooking for the evening meal. She’s been at the forefront of feeding thousands at street events across Wales, Scotland, and England, all in a bid to combat climate change.

EXPLORING FOOD AND NATURE: KIM STODDART AND CARWYN GRAVES

At 4:00 PM, Kim

Stoddart, an awardwinning journalist, will join the festival to discuss her teaching and latest book, “Climate Change Gardening,” starting from a ‘throw away the rules’ perspective. Then, at 5:00 PM, Carwyn Graves, a beloved Welsh food historian, will enthrall us with tales from his book, “Welsh Food Stories,” and share his expertise on Wales’ rich food history and diverse apple varieties.

COMMUNITY FOOD MEETING: TRANSFORMING OUR DIET LOCALLY

The evening concludes with a community food meeting, where you can join social pioneers and future forgers like Cris Tomos, Simon Wright, and Jessica Seaton. Together, we’ll explore ways to transform our local diet into one that’s healthier, lower in carbon footprint, and

more sustainable for our producers, the land, and nature. Anything can happen at this gathering of minds, and you won’t want to miss it!

Mark your calendars and come be a part of the Newport Food Festival— an event that blends culinary education, community engagement, and a celebration of local, sustainable food practices. Join us for unforgettable days of fun, learning, and community bonding.

Uncanny BBC2, 9pm

Uncanny began life as a podcast by Danny Robins, a comedy writer whose interest in the paranormal became his professional life after he wrote and presented The Battersea Poltergeist for Radio 4 about a haunting in 1950s London. Robins was subsequently inundated with unsolicited emails from people detailing their own supernatural experiences.

Later... with Jools

Holland BBC2, 10.30pm Kicking off the new series from Alexandra Place in North London, Jools once again welcomes a variety of artists to perform. First up is West Midlands-born Jorja Smith, who will be showcasing numbers from her second LP Falling or Flying, the anticipated follow-up to her 2018 Mercury Prize shortlisted debut album, Lost and Found.

(R)

8.00 Would I Lie to You? With Raj Bisram, Deborah Frances-White, Stephen Mulhern and Jenny Ryan. (R) 8.30 Ghosts. Alison and Mike consider selling some land. 9.00 Have I Got News for You. Alexander Armstrong hosts, with Jon Richardson and Olivia Utley.

9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (R)

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 The Graham Norton Show.

11.30 Blankety Blank. (R)

12.05 RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. (R) 1.15 BBC News.

6.30 Escape to the Country. (R)

7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics UK. 1.00 Impossible. (R)

1.45 Make Me a Dealer. (R) 2.30 Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15 Cornwall: This Fishing Life. (R)

5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. James Buckley, Amy Gledhill, Romilly Weeks and Gary Wilmot take part.

6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Fleur East and the celebrity panel discuss tomorrow’s show.

7.00 Your Garden Made Perfect. Angela Scanlon returns with the garden makeover show. (R)

8.00 Gardeners’ World. Frances Tophill assesses the tomatoes in her upcycled greenhouse.

9.00 Uncanny. New series. Supernatural encounters, expert analysis, and investigations.

10.00 Red Dwarf. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.00 Weather.

11.05 Film: Woman in Gold. (2015) Fact-based drama, starring Helen Mirren.

12.45 DNA Family Secrets. (R)

1.45 Sign Zone: The Big Mortgage Squeeze – Panorama. 2.15 Saving Lives at Sea. (R) 3.15 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather. 7.00 Emmerdale. Cain and Caleb struggle to gain control, while Suni’s worst fears are confirmed.

8.00 Coronation Street. As the shocked residents realise that they have a murderer in their midst, the hunt is on to find Stephen before he can add to his death toll – or are they too late?

9.00 Barbara Knox at 90. The Coronation Street star celebrates her 90th birthday with Bradley Walsh, who has a host of surprises for her, including a tearful reunion with a long-time on-screen partner.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales. 10.45 Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards 2023. Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo host the annual award ceremony which honours and celebrates the nation’s unsung heroes. (R)

12.30 The NFL Show. 1.25 All Elite Wrestling: Collision. (R) 3.05 In the Shadow of Mary Seacole. (R) 3.50 Unwind. 5.05 Tenable. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Dan Do. (R) 1.30 Trysorau Cymru: Tir, Tai a Chyfrinachau. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Noson Lawen. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R) 6.25 Darllediad Gwleidyddol gan Llafur Cymru. 6.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023. 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru 2023 – Llandudno. 10.00 Y Gêm. 10.30 Jonathan: Cwpan y Byd 2023. (R) 11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R) 6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Chateau DIY. (R) 10.55 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed Lunch. 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 6.00 Channel 4 News. 7.00 Live England International Football. 10.00 Gogglebox. 11.05 Big Fat Quiz of the Decade. (R) 12.55 England International Football. 1.50 Film: Rocks. (2019)

6.30 Strictly

to impress the judges and viewers and avoid ending up in tomorrow night’s dance-off. Presented by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.

8.30 Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel. The comedian hosts the Saturday-night game show, joined by Big Narstie, Ellie Taylor, Frankie Bridge, Harry Judd, Jonathan Ross, Richie Anderson and Vogue Williams.

9.30 Blankety Blank. Bradley Walsh hosts the quiz show, in which Phil Tufnell, Martine McCutcheon, Alex Brooker, Mel Giedroyc, the Rev Kate Bottley and Darren Harriott help the contestants.

10.05 BBC News; Weather.

10.25 Film: Superbad. (2007) Teen comedy, starring Jonah Hill and Michael Cera.

12.10 Film: Lady Bird. (2017) 1.40 Weather for the Week Ahead. 1.45 BBC News.

6.05 Hey Duggee. (R) 6.20 Supertato. (R) 6.30 Shaun the Sheep. (R) 6.45 Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed! (R) 6.55 Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese. (R) 7.10 Grizzy and the Lemmings. (R) 7.25 Pokemon: Sun and Moon – Ultra Legends. (R) 7.45 Deadly Mission Shark. (R) 8.15 Blue Peter. (R) 8.45 Newsround. 8.50 Film: Newsies: The Broadway Musical. (2017) 11.00 Nature’s Epic Journeys. (R) 12.00 Britain’s Top Takeaways. (R) 1.00 Film: The Red Shoes. (1948) 3.10 Big Little Journeys. (R) 4.10 Fake or Fortune? (R) 5.10 Flog It! 6.00 Wynne’s Welsh 70s. Wynne Evans explores the BBC Wales archives of 1975. (R) 6.30 Saving Lives at Sea. Reports come in of a kayaker who has failed to make it back to shore. (R)

7.30 Great Asian Railway Journeys. Michael Portillo travels through Thailand. (R)

8.30 Mary J Blige at the BBC. A compilation of archive performances by the singer.

9.30 Black Music Wales. Lemfreck explores the oftenoverlooked history of Welsh black music.

10.30 First Ladies of Hip Hop.

11.30 Later... with Jools Holland.

12.15 Estelle at Glastonbury 2008. (R) 12.45 Moulin Rouge: Yes We Can-Can! (R) 1.15 Film: Sweetheart. (2021) 2.55 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 7.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 9.25 ITV News. 9.30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. 11.40 Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. 12.40 ITV News; Weather. 1.00 ITV Racing: Live from Newmarket. Coverage of day two of the Future Champions Festival from Newmarket. 3.00 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Pool C winner v Pool D runner-up (Kickoff 4.00pm).

6.30 ITV News; Weather.

6.35 ITV News Cymru Wales.

6.45 In for a Penny. Stephen Mulhern heads to Blackpool. for the game show in which he travels around the UK setting members of the public unusual challenges. (R)

7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Pool B winner v Pool A runner-up (Kick-off 8.00pm). Coverage of the second quarter-final, which comes from Stade de France in Paris.

6.30 Pen/Campwyr. (R) 7.05 Agor y Clo. 7.15 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.

7.30 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru 2023 – Llandudno. (R) 8.30 Aur y Noson Lawen. (R) 9.30 Hywel Gwynfryn yn 80. (R) 10.35 Yn y Fan a’r Lle. (R) 11.05 Elis James – ’Nabod y Teip. 11.40 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.05 The King of Queens. (R) 6.50 Cheers. (R) 8.15 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 9.45 Frasier. (R) 11.10 The Simpsons. (R) 2.35 Jamie’s £1 Wonders. (R) 3.35 Four in a Bed. (R) 6.05 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 7.30 Castle Howard: Through the Seasons. (R) 8.30 Julia Bradbury’s Irish Journey. 9.30 Film: Knives Out. (2019) 12.05 Film: Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit. (2014) 1.55 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 2.40 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 3.35 Hollyoaks Omnibus. (R) 5.45-6.00 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R)

10.30 ITV News; Weather. 10.50 Grand Slammers: Inside HMP the Mount. Part one of two. England rugby world cup winners, including captain Martin Johnson, attempt to train a team of inmates from HM Prison the Mount in Hertfordshire. (R) 12.15 English Football League Highlights. (R) 1.15 The Chase. (R) 2.05 The Switch. (R) 2.55 Fresh Cuts. (R) 3.45 Unwind. 5.10 Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. (R) 6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Y Doniolis. 8.10 Dreigiau: Gwarchodwyr Berc. (R) 8.30 Byd Rwtsh Dai Potsh. (R) 8.40 Ar Goll yn Oz. (R) 9.00 Cath-Od. (R) 9.15 Cic. (R) 9.35 Mabinogi-ogi. (R) 10.00 Hydref Gwyllt Iolo. (R) 11.00 Ffermio. (R) 12.00 Bwyd Bach Shumana a Catrin. (R) 12.30 Am Dro! (R) 1.30 Cymru Wyllt Gudd. (R) 2.30 Dau Gi Bach. (R) 3.00 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023. Coverage of the first quarter-final (Kick-off 4.00pm).

6.00 Milkshake! 9.45 SpongeBob SquarePants. (R) 10.10 Entertainment News. 10.15 Friends. (R)

Ocean’s

Film:

6.55 5 News Weekend. 7.00 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Action from the group match between the rivals at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. 8.00 When Train Journeys Go Horribly Wrong. John Sergeant narrates a selection of first-hand accounts of nightmare trips on the railway.

9.30 Man About the House: 50 Years of Laughs. A celebration

Danny Robins

Jorja Smith

Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico

BBC2, 7.20pm

Eva visits Nuevo Leon in the north east, which shares a very narrow border with the US state of Texas. It’s an area that contains lots of arid desert where little grows, so the local diet is mostly made up of meat. On the menu for Longoria to sample are aguja steak and cabrito, a goat-based dish whose origins lie within the Sephardic Jewish tradition.

Jamie’s Five Ingredient Meals Channel 4, 8pm Back in 2017, Jamie Oliver released his 20th book. A TV series followed, and Jamie’s Quick & Easy Food ran for four series between 2017-2020. The 48-yearold chef is back with a new slightly different programme tonight, as he demonstrates two delicious dishes that are ideal for when you need to get food and flavour on the tablefast.

9.00 Boiling Point. Carly reduces the hours of the pot washing team, sending Jake into a panic.

10.00 BBC News; Weather.

10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.30 Match of the Day Wales. 11.00 Film: The Beach. (2000) Drama, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

12.50 The Women’s Football Show. 1.40 BBC News.

6.05 Countryfile. (R) 7.00 The Wild Gardener. (R) 8.00 Gardeners’ World. (R) 9.00 Weatherman Walking. 9.30 Landward. 10.00

Saturday Kitchen Best Bites. 11.30

Film: Richard III. (1955) 2.05 This Farming Life. (R) 3.05 Weatherman Walking. (R) 3.35 Flog It! (R) 4.20 Celebrity Race Across the World. (R) 5.20 Rugby League: Super League.

6.20 Inside the Factory XL: Trains. Gregg Wallace visits the 84-acre Alstom factory site in Derby to learn about the construction of a 187-ton five-carriage electric train, which takes up to 1,000 hours to complete. (R)

7.20 Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico.

8.00 Big Little Journeys. A Formosan pangolin travels through a land of giants to find a mate in a protected forest, while a family of golden-headed lion tamarins travel to the edge of their world.

9.00 Film: Us. (2019) Premiere. A family’s life turns into a nightmare when a group of strangers begins to terrorise them. Horror thriller, starring Lupita Nyong’o.

10.50 Film: The Omen. (1976) Horror, starring Gregory Peck.

12.40 Sign Zone: Question Time. (R) 1.40 Claimed and Shamed. (R) 2.25 Ambulance. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Ainsley’s Food We Love. (R)

6.30 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R) 7.30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. (R) 9.25 ITV News. 9.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh.

11.30 Fletcher’s Family Farm.

12.30 ITV News; Weather. 12.45 Film: Flushed Away. (2006) 2.30 FA Cup First Round Draw Live. Coverage of the draw. 3.00 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Pool D winner v Pool C runner-up (Kick-off 4.00pm).

6.30 ITV News; Weather.

6.40 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

6.45 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals. Two more of the most thrilling and nerveracking endgames from the arcade-themed quiz show hosted by Ben Shephard. (R) 7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Pool A winner v Pool B runner-up (Kick-off 8.00pm). Coverage of the fourth quarter-final, which comes from Stade de France in Paris.

10.30 ITV News; Weather. 10.45 Fresh Cuts. The contribution of black culture and design to mainstream British fashion.

11.45 Gallagher Premiership Rugby Union Highlights. 12.40 English Football League Highlights. (R) 1.30 The Chase. (R) 2.20 Winning Combination. (R) 3.10 Motorsport UK. (R) 4.00

6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw. 9.00 Y Siambr. (R) 10.00 Jason Mohammad: Stadiymau’r Byd. (R) 11.00 Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol. (R) 12.00 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 12.30 Rygbi Pawb Uchafbwyntiau. (R) 1.15 Bwyd Epic Chris. (R) 1.45 Hanner Marathon Principality Caerdydd. (R) 2.45 Y Tyrchwyr gyda Iolo Williams. (R) 3.15 Hen Dy Newydd. (R) 4.10 Sain Ffagan. (R) 4.40 Cefn Gwlad. (R) 5.10 Ffermio. (R) 6.15 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R) 7.00 Newyddion a Chwaraeon. 7.15 Sgorio Rhyngwladol. Wales v Croatia (Kick-off 7.45pm). 10.00 Drych: Camau Tua’r Sêr. (R) 11.00 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.00 Cheers. (R) 7.20 The King of Queens. (R) 8.30 The Simpsons. (R) 9.30 Sunday Brunch. 12.30 The Simpsons. (R) 2.00 Film: How to Train Your Dragon. (2010) 3.55 The Great British Bake Off. (R) 5.30 A Lake District Farm Shop. (R) 6.30 Channel 4 News. 7.00 Griff’s Canadian Adventure. (R) 8.00 Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker. 9.00 Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. 10.00 Gogglebox. (R) 11.05 Film: Little Richard: I Am Everything. (2023) 1.00 The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice. (R) 1.55 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 2.45 Come Dine with Me. (R) 4.55 The Great Home Transformation. (R) 5.50-6.05 Sunday Brunch Best Bits. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.55 The Smurfs. (R) 10.25

11.10 Have I Got a Bit More News for You. (R)

11.55 The Graham Norton Show. (R)

12.45 Alan Carr’s Picture Slam. (R) 1.30 BBC News.

Down

(R) 3.00 Galapagos –Islands of Change: Natural World. (R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15 Cornwall: This Fishing Life. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R) 6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Myra DuBois, Charlie Hedges, Bonnie Langford and Tyler West test their skills.

6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Fleur East chats to the latest eliminated couple.

7.00 The One Show. Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas present topical stories and celebrity chat.

7.30 Mastermind. Specialist subjects include Billy Joel and JMW Turner.

8.00 Only Connect.

8.30 University Challenge.

9.00 Union with David Olusoga. A look at the deep divisions in Great Britain and Ireland between 1815 and 1851.

10.00 QI. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Film: Mr Jones. (2019) Factbased drama, starring James Norton.

1.10 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R) 2.05 Picasso: The Beauty and the Beast. (R) 3.05 This Is BBC Two.

Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Sam is desperate to unburden his problems.

8.00 Coronation Street. Last week’s events continue to have an impact on the residents, George takes exception to Todd’s teasing, and Ryan fights nerves ahead of his presentation to Daniel’s students.

9.00 The Long Shadow. When another woman survives an attack, detectives hope they are in with a chance of finding their man, with a driver in Leeds emerging as prime suspect.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather. 10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Sharp End. Political discussion.

11.45 Hotel Custody. (R)

12.30 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite. (R) 2.10 Tipping Point. (R) 3.05

Susanna Reid: Can Britain Get Talking? A Tonight Special. (R) 3.30 Made in Britain. (R) 3.55 Unwind. 5.10 Tenable. (R)

1.00 Adre. (R) 1.30 Pen/Campwyr. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru 2023 –Llandudno. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Dan Do. (R) 6.30 Rownd a Rownd. (R) 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Y Byd ar Bedwar. 8.25 Ffasiwn Drefn. 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Cefn Gwlad. 9.35 Sgorio. 10.05 Teulu, Dad a Fi. (R) 11.05 Y Tyrchwyr gyda Iolo Williams. (R) 11.40 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R) 6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 10.55 Renovation Nation. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed Lunch. 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 Help! We Bought a Village. 6.00 Four in a Bed. 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 Jamie’s Five Ingredient Meals. 9.00 999: On the Front Line. (R) 10.00 Film: Summer of Soul. (2021) 12.20 Sex Rated. (R) 1.15 Film: Another Round. (2020) 3.15 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 The Great Pottery Throw Down. (R)

Eva Longoria

Jamie Oliver

Bangers: Mad For Cars

Channel 4, 10.15pm New series. Rapper Tinie and Formula One analyst

Naomi Schiff learn about the best cars of the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s from car lovers all over the UK. They begin by choosing their favourite family car. Tinie seeks advice for his choice from football legend Ian Wright and Birmingham rapper Mist who help him choose between the Saab 900, the Lotus Carlton and the Sierra Cosworth.

Payback

ITV, 9pm

We catch up with Lexie here as she plays a dangerous game after being called on to infiltrate Cal’s business empire, all while attempting to keep her children safe. Unfortunately for the Edinburgh-based housewife, a secret from her past could put a spanner in the works of her future. Morven Christie and Peter Mullan head the cast, with excellent support from Prasanna Puwanarajah.

Nugget is dragged back to the square.

8.00 Fake or Fortune? Fiona Bruce and Philip Mould investigate a murky canvas covered in white household paint that could potentially be a work of expressionist painter Arshile Gorky. Last in the series.

9.00 The Reckoning. How Jimmy Savile continued to protect his legacy and hide the truth about his offences during the early 2000s by silencing his victims. Last in the series.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 10.40 Rookie Nurses. (R) 11.10 Stranger in My Family. Documentary following a man’s search for his biological father. (R)

12.10 Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel. (R) 1.10 BBC News.

6.20 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.05 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R)

7.50 Sign Zone: Expert Witness. (R) 8.20 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R) 8.50 Lifeline. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics Live. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Unbeatable. (R) 2.15 Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00 Politics Live Conference 2023. 4.15 First Minister’s Questions. 5.15 Flog It! (R) 6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games.

6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two.

7.00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. Derry Girls stars Ian McElhinney and Tara Lynne O’Neill compete.

8.00 This Farming Life. Jenni moves her alpacas to their new arena.

9.00 Britain’s Housing Crisis: What Went Wrong?

10.00 Jailed: Inside Maghaberry Prison. Stephen Nolan meets a prisoner he last saw in a young offenders’ centre.

10.30 Newsnight. 11.10 Weather. 11.15 Beacons: Short Films from Wales.

11.25 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. (R) 11.55 Coast. (R)

12.15 First Ladies of Hip Hop. (R) 1.15 Sign Zone: Money for Nothing. (R) 2.00 DNA Family Secrets. (R) 3.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. (R) 3.30 This Is BBC Two.

6.30 Money for Nothing. (R) 7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 11.15 Politics Live. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Unbeatable. (R) 2.15 Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00 The Himalayas: Natural World. (R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15 Cornwall: This Fishing Life. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R) 6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Myra DuBois, Charlie Hedges, Bonnie Langford and Tyler West.

6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two.

7.00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. Dianne Buswell and Owain Wyn Evans scour the antiques shops of south Wales.

8.00 Nadiya’s Simple Spices.

8.30 Nigella: At My Table. (R) 9.00 DNA Family Secrets. Two Ukrainian sisters look for family in Britain.

10.00 Moulin Rouge: Yes We CanCan!

of the race the teams make their way 1,500km north from Sarajevo to the next checkpoint in Berlin.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 BBC Wales Live.

11.10 Film: Halloween. (2018) Horror, starring Jamie Lee Curtis.

12.50 Blankety Blank. (R) 1.25 BBC News.

10.30 Newsnight. 11.10 Weather. 11.15 Beacons: Short Films from Wales.

11.30 Unspun World with John Simpson.

11.55 No Activity. (R)

12.20 The Fens: A Wild Year. (R)

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00

Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase. 6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather. 7.30 Emmerdale. Amelia gets upset.

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Bwyd Bach Shumana a Catrin. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R) 1.30 Cefn Gwlad. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Y Fets. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Adre. (R) 6.30 Sgorio. (R) Newyddion S4C. 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Pobol y Cwm. 8.25 Rownd a Rownd. 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Gwesty Aduniad. New series. Peter Jones meets his father for the first time. 10.00 Rocco Schiavone. 11.05 Arfordir Cymru: Môn. (R) 11.40 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R) 6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 10.55 Renovation Nation. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed Lunch. 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 Help! We Bought a Village. 6.00 Four in a Bed. 6.30 Channel 4 News. 7.00 Live England International Football. 10.15 Bangers: Mad For Cars. 11.20 Gogglebox. (R) 12.20 England International Football. 1.15 Film: What Men Want. (2019) 3.20 24 Hours in A&E. 4.15 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.10-6.05 Tool Club. (R)

2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable for Soccer Aid. (R) 4.00 Tipping Point.

5.00 The Chase.

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Cain supports Sam, Suni is less than pleased with his father’s behaviour, and Caleb is intrigued.

8.00 Coronation Street. Carla hopes to save the factory from ruin, but Ed’s financial troubles deepen when Michael loses his job. Lauren stuns Ryan by demanding cash to buy her silence.

9.00 Payback. Lexie plays a dangerous game to keep her children safe, until a secret from her past jeopardises her future security.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 Peston. Political magazine show, hosted by Robert Peston.

11.40 No Return. (R)

12.30 The Chase. (R) 1.20 Tipping Point. (R) 2.10 Loose Women. (R) 3.00 Made in Britain. (R) 3.25 Unwind. 4.40 The Masked Dancer. (R)

12.40 Sign Zone: Garden Rescue. (R) 1.25 Clean It, Fix It. (R) 2.10 Union with David Olusoga. (R) 3.10 This Is BBC Two. 6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

Tywydd. 12.05 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 1.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Llanw. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Arfordir Cymru: Môn. (R) 6.30 Rownd a Rownd. (R) 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C. 8.00 Pobol y Cwm. 8.25 Pobol y Cwm. 9.00 Gogglebocs Cymru. 10.00 Y Tad, Y Mab A’r Cor. (R) 11.30 Y Byd ar Bedwar. (R) 12.05 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R) 6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 10.55 Renovation Nation. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed Lunch. 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 Help! We Bought a Village. 6.00 Four in a Bed. 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 The Great British Bake Off. 9.15 Don’t Look Down for SU2C. 10.30 Gogglebox. (R) 12.30 Walter Presents: Off Grid. 1.25 Taskmaster. (R) 2.20 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 3.15 Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker. (R) 4.10 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.00 Tool Club. (R)

Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. Graeme Hall meets a pair of troublesome Newfoundlands. (R) 6.55 5 News Update. 7.00

Naomi Schiff and Tinie

Morven Christie

Sir Lloyd

Pride of Britain: A Windrush Special ITV, 9pm

Seventy five years ago, the Empire Windrush ship landed at Tilbury Docks in Essex, spilling forth men and women who were pioneers for a group of people that transformed Britain - the Windrush Generation. In this special documentary programme, HRH The Prince of Wales, Sir Trevor McDonald, Mel B, Alesha Dixon and Judi Love meet members of this group.

The Good Ship Murder Channel 5, 9pm

When a crime writer joins the luxury ship as a star passenger, it isn't long before death gets on board as well. In Lisbon, the author's husband dies in circumstances eerily similar to events in her own book. With super-fans and bitter rivals in the mix, it's up to singer Jack and First Officer Kate to unravel the murderer's identity before the body count rises still.

BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Question Time.

Newscast. 12.10 Weather for the Week Ahead.

By-

6.30 Escape to the Country. (R)

7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign Zone: Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45 Unbeatable. (R) 2.15

Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00 Chimps of the Lost Gorge: Natural World. (R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15 Cornwall: This Fishing Life. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games.

6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two.

7.00 The Warship: Tour of Duty. HMS Queen Elizabeth joins forces with other allied warships. (R) 8.00 Saving Lives at Sea. Two people are caught out by the tide in Conwy, north Wales.

9.00 Interview with the Vampire. Louis recounts his first faltering steps to becoming a vampire.

9.45 Interview with the Vampire. Louis wrestles in a desperate battle to preserve his humanity.

10.30 Newsnight. 11.10 Weather.

11.15 Beacons: Short Films from Wales.

11.30 Weatherman Walking. (R)

11.40 DNA Family Secrets. (R)

12.40 Sign Zone: The Crash Detectives. (R) 1.10 Strictly Come Dancing. (R) 3.10 Strictly Come Dancing: The Results. (R) 3.50 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 2.00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure. (R) 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase. 6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Sam is full of admiration for his wife, Vinny is conflicted, and Matty comforts Amy.

8.30 Shoplifting: The Battle on the High Street? Tonight. Paul Brand reports on a rise in shoplifting, which has more than doubled in just three years and cost retailers just short of one billion pounds a year.

9.00 Pride of Britain: A Windrush Special. Documentary telling the story of the Windrush generation. 10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather. 10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 10.45 Fishlock’s Choice. (R) 11.15 The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor. The Queen’s unpopularity in the wake of Diana’s death. (R) 12.05 All Elite Wrestling: Rampage. 1.00 The Chase. (R) 1.50 Tipping Point. (R) 2.45

6.00 Cyw. 12.00

S4C a’r

12.05 Bwrdd i Dri. 12.30 Heno. 1.00 Sain Ffagan. 1.30 Y Byd ar Bedwar. 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C

3.05 Gwesty

6.00 Cefn

Lle. (R)

(R)

S4C. 7.00 Heno. 7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 8.00 Pobol y Cwm. 8.25 Rownd a Rownd. 8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 9.00 Jonathan: Cwpan y Byd 2023. 10.00 Rygbi Pawb Uchafbwyntiau. 10.45 Trysorau Cymru: Tir, Tai a Chyfrinachau. (R) 11.15 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R) 11.50 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R) 6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 10.55 Renovation Nation. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed Lunch. 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 Help! We Bought a Village. 6.00 Four in a Bed. 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice. 9.00 Taskmaster. 10.00 The Great Amazon

The Graham Norton Show.

11.30 Black Music Wales. (R)

12.30 RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. (R) 1.40 BBC News.

6.30 Money for Nothing. (R) 7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00

(R)

3.00 Killer Whales: Beneath the Surface – Natural World. (R) 3.45 This Wild Life. (R) 4.15 Cornwall: This Fishing Life. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Myra DuBois, Charlie Hedges, Bonnie Langford and Tyler West take part.

6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two.

7.00 Your Garden Made Perfect. The owners of a new-build house in Liverpool seek help with their outdoor space. (R)

8.00 Gardeners’ World. Monty replants his bearded iris in the Dry Garden.

9.00 Uncanny. Danny Robins investigates real-life stories of seemingly paranormal encounters.

10.00 Red Dwarf. (R) 10.30 Newsnight. 11.00 Weather.

11.05 Film: The Shining. (1980) Horror, starring Jack Nicholson.

1.00 Sign Zone: Challenging Putin: Moscow and the Mutiny –Panorama. (R) 1.30 Saving Lives at Sea. (R) 2.30 Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico. (R) 3.10 This Is BBC Two.

Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.00 Emmerdale. Belle senses something is off with Tom, Pollard and Jacob encourage David, and Brenda fishes for gossip.

7.30 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Coverage of the first semi final (Kick-off 8.00pm), which takes place at Stade de France in Paris.

10.30 ITV News; Weather. 11.05 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

11.20 Grand Slammers: Inside HMP the Mount. Part two of two. Finale of the prison challenge which culminates in a rugby match where the sporting legends play alongside the inmates they have trained. (R) 12.35 The NFL Show. Including highlights of New Orleans Saints v Jacksonville Jaguars. 1.25 All Elite Wrestling: Collision. Hard-hitting action from AEW’s newest show. (R) 3.05 Angela Black. Drama, starring Joanne Froggatt. (R) 3.55 Unwind. Daily escape designed to calm the mind and encourage relaxation and reflection. 5.10 Tenable. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Yn y Fan a’r Lle. (R) 1.30 Trysorau Cymru: Tir, Tai a Chyfrinachau. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Aur y Noson Lawen. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R) 6.00 Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R) 6.30 Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 7.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 7.30 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023. Coverage of the first semi final (Kick-off 8.00pm). 10.30 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer: Max Boyce. (R) 11.35 Diwedd. Channel 4: 6.05 Countdown. (R) 6.45 Cheers. (R) 7.35 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.25 Frasier. (R) 9.55 Find It, Fix It, Flog It. (R) 10.55 Renovation Nation. (R) 11.55 Channel 4 News Summary. 12.00 Steph’s Packed Lunch. 2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 4.00 The Great House Giveaway. 5.00 Help! We Bought a Village. 6.00 Four in a Bed. 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 7.30 Unreported World. 8.00 Secrets of the Middle Aisle. (R) 9.00 Gogglebox. 10.00 Jon & Lucy’s Odd Couples. 11.05 Film: The Inbetweeners Movie. (2011) 12.55 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 1.45 Film: Spontaneous. (2020) 3.25 Come Dine with Me. (R) 5.40 Kirstie’s House of Craft. (R) 5.50-6.10 Close.

Badly. Including an attention-seeker who won’t give her owner a moment’s peace. (R) 6.55

Coxsone

Shayne Ward

IN THE VAST theater of World War 2, where history lessons bleed into cinematic epics and video game escapades, Relic’s Company of Heroes 3 takes us on a unique journey.

Forget Normandy and Stalingrad; this time, we’re exploring the vineyards of Italy and the deserts of North Africa. There’s an undeniable shift in ambition here, a desire to experiment and redefine the boundaries of the genre. Yet, for all its novelty, it’s not the game’s innovations that captivated me.

Company of Heroes 3 is an impressive beast, packing in two campaigns and four factions, mirroring the colossal scale of the conflict it represents. The Italian dynamic campaign, in theory, promised a World War 2 Total War experience. From Sicily to Rome, the journey northward was meant to be epic, a mix of turn-based strategy and tactically engaging RTS battles. Unfortunately, this grand vision falls flat due to a critical flaw—it lacks true dynamism.

Throughout my 40hour march to Rome, I encountered feeble resistance from the Nazis. Their attempts to reclaim captured territory were scripted events, rendering the campaign disappointingly predictable. The campaign’s potential remains untapped, buried beneath a lack of adversary aggression. However, amidst this disappointment, glimpses of brilliance emerge.

Each company you command is a versatile toolkit, offering a range of units and abilities that prove invaluable on the battlefield. From bombing enemy positions to capturing airfields and ports, strategic options abound. What sets Company of Heroes 3 apart is its seamless integration of these layers—the decisions you make on the campaign map directly impact the battlefield, creating a cohesive experience rarely achieved in hybrid strategy games. Performancewise, the game runs smoothly, save

watcH tHe trailer Here!

for occasional hiccups. However, the campaign progression systems are a tangled mess. Unlocking abilities, upgrades, and units feels disjointed, lacking a cohesive design. The introduction of subcommanders adds complexity without depth, diluting the experience.

Despite these flaws, the game shines in its RTS battles. The explosions, the chaos, the thrill of tactical maneuvers—the core of Company of Heroes 3 is undeniably captivating. The Italian campaign might be a disappointment, but the individual missions offer moments of sheer brilliance. Narrow roads, countryside paths, and airfield runways become battlegrounds, each encounter etching unforgettable

paign, although narratively awkward, delivers diverse missions and open desert landscapes, emphasizing tank warfare and new gameplay features. Multiplayer and skirmish modes extend the game’s longevity, showcasing the depth of strategy and exciting confrontations.

Company of Heroes 3 is a flawed experiment. The Italian campaign falters, but the heart of the game, its real-time battles, is where it excels. It’s a game that I love, despite its shortcomings. If you’re willing to overlook the campaign’s flaws and focus on the fantastic battles it offers, Company of Heroes 3 might just steal your heart too.

witH eddie tHe gaMe guru

Mae Cymdeithas yr Iaith wedi ethol Cadeirydd newydd

MAE Joseff

Gnagbo wedi ei ethol yn Gadeirydd cenedlaethol newydd

Cymdeithas yr Iaith yn ein Cyfarfod Cyffredinol yng Nghaernarfon heddiw (Dydd Sadwrn, 7 Hydref).

Mae Joseff, sydd â phrofiad fel Swyddog Rhyngwladol Cymdeithas yr Iaith, wedi bod yn weithgar gyda’r mudiad a Chell Caerdydd y Gymdeithas ers sawl blwyddyn.

Bu’n rhaid iddo adael Côte d’Ivoire (Arfordir Ifori), ei wlad frodorol, fel ffoadur gwleidyddol oherwydd ei wrthwynebiad i lywodraeth newydd yn dilyn coup d’état.

Ers ymgartrefu yng

Nghymru, mae Joseff wedi dysgu Cymraeg a bellach yn darparu gwersi Cymraeg i geiswyr lloches ac yn

dysgu Cymraeg mewn ysgolion.

Mae hefyd wedi siarad yn gyhoeddus am bwysigrwydd Cymru fel Cenedl Noddfa, a’r angen i ddarparu gwersi Cymraeg ar gyfer ffoaduriaid.

Ers symud i Gymru, mae Joseff wedi cofleidio’r Gymraeg ac yn gwneud cyfraniad pwysig i adferiad yr iaith yng Nghaerdydd ac yn ehangach.

Wrth annerch y cyfarfod dywedodd ei fod yn teimlo’n rhan o deulu’r Gymraeg a theulu’r Gymdeithas a’i fod yn edrych ymlaen at arwain fel rhan o dîm gweithgar a phrofiadol.

Meddai Joseff ar ôl cael ei ethol yn gadeirydd cenedlaethol: “Mae gwaith y Gymdeithas, o’r ymgyrch dros ein cymunedau i’r ymgyrch dros ddatganoli pwerau darlledu, yn

gwneud cyfraniad amhrisiadwy i ddyfodol y Gymraeg. Ymunwch â’r Gymdeithas i sicrhau dyfodol gwell i’r Gymraeg.”

“Fel rhywun sy’n dysgu Cymraeg i bobl yn ardaloedd Caerdydd a Chasnewydd, rwy’n teimlo’n gryf y dylai

pawb o bob cefndir gael mynediad at y Gymraeg. Mae’r Gymdeithas yn cynnig ateb pwysig yn hynny o beth yn ei hymgyrch dros addysg Gymraeg i bawb.

“Yn dilyn y papur gwyn diweddar, mae’n hanfodol felly bod y Llywodraeth yn mynd

ati i gryfhau’r Ddeddf Addysg Gymraeg arfaethedig gyda tharged o addysg Gymraeg i bawb, er mwyn sicrhau yn y dyfodol y bydd pob person ifanc yn gadael yr ysgol yn hyderus yn y Gymraeg.”

Bydd gwaharddiad ar faglau yn dechrau ddydd Mawrth

O 17 HYDREF bydd yn anghyfreithlon defnyddio maglau a thrapiau glud yng Nghymru, y gwaharddiad cyntaf o’i fath yn y DU.

Mae’r gwaharddiad ar ddefnyddio maglau yn un o’r ymrwymiadau yn y Rhaglen Lywodraethu, ac roedd y rhan fwyaf o’r rheini a gymerodd ran yn yr ymgynghoriad cyhoeddus o blaid gwaharddiad o’r fath.

Mae maglau a thrapiau glud yn achosi dioddefaint mawr i anifeiliaid, a dydyn nhw ddim yn gwahaniaethu gan eu bod yn gallu trapio a niweidio rhywogaethau na fwriedir eu dal gan gynnwys anifeiliaid anwes.

Os yw anifeiliaid anwes fel cathod yn cael eu dal mewn trap glud, gall arwain at sefyllfa ofnadwy lle mae’n rhaid difa’r anifail oherwydd ei anafiadau. Gall anifail sy’n cael ei ddal mewn magl ddioddef poen ofnadwy.

Dywedodd y Gweinidog: “Mae ‘na wythnos i fynd cyn y daw’r gwaharddiad ar ddefnyddio maglau a

thrapiau glud i rym yng Nghymru. Dyna ddiwedd ar ddioddefaint a phoen i lawer o anifeiliaid, a llawer o’r rheini’n anifeiliaid nad nad oeddent yn darged i’r trap. “Nod y gwaharddiad

yw atal dull creulon o reoli anifeiliaid ysgflyfaethus a llygod mawr ac ati. Mae dulliau llai creulon yn bodoli ac yn cael eu defnyddio’n helaeth.

“Dyw defnyddio maglau a thrapiau glud

ddim yn gydnaws â’r safonau uchel rydyn ni’n ymdrechu i’w cyrraedd o ran lles anifeiliaid yma yng Nghymru. Rwy’n falch ein bod yn arwain y ffordd ar y mater hwn.” O 17 Hydref ymlaen,

bydd defnyddio maglau a thrapiau glud yn anghyfreithlon yng Nghymru. Gallai unrhyw un a geir yn euog o ddefnyddio magl wynebu carchar neu ddirwy ddiderfyn neu’r ddau.

‘Welsh farming – Producing for the future’

An impressive line up of industry leaders will bring political, environmental, consumer and agricultural insights to the annual NFU Cymru Conference on Thursday 2nd November.

This year’s event, titled ‘Welsh farming – Producing for the future’ will be held at the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells from 10am on Thursday 2nd November.

Previous NFU Cymru Conferences have attracted a starstudded line-up and the 2023 conference is no different.

The event will begin with an opening speech from NFU Cymru President Aled Jones, followed by an address and Q&A with the Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths.

Discussions in the second session will centre on climate change and agriculture’s net zero aspirations, with Dr Niki Rust, Head of Land, Agriculture and Nature Team, UK Climate Change Committee; and

Dr Michelle Cain, UKRI Future Leaders Fellow and Senior Lecturer in Environmental Data Analytics, Cranfield University.

NFU Cymru is delighted to be able to welcome WalesOnline Welsh Affairs Editor Will Hayward to this year’s conference and he will be leading a session on the Welsh political landscape.

Trade will be the focus of the conference’s third session and Sam Lowe, Partner at Flint Globally,

is ideally placed to provide commentary on the outlook for Wales in the global marketplace.

After lunch, popular global food and drink industry analyst Professor David Hughes, Emeritus Professor of Food Marketing, Imperial College London, will be returning to NFU Cymru Conference to give an entertaining insight into consumer trends and behaviours.

The final session will see NFU Cymru President Minette

Batters take to the stage for what promises to be an interesting session covering her near sixyear tenure at the helm of the NFU in England, a period which has seen significant political change and a global pandemic. Minette will also be providing her thoughts on what the future holds for UK farmers.

NFU Cymru Director John Mercer said: “Each year we manage to attract the very best speakers to NFU Cymru

Conference and our 2023 line-up promises to be one of our best events to date given the high calibre of speakers who have agreed to join us this year.

“The Agriculture (Wales) Act has paved the foundations to develop new devolved policy here in Wales and the Sustainable Farming Scheme will shape Welsh farming for many years to come. Given the anticipated changes to the policy landscape, Wales’ place in the global marketplace and the industry’s ongoing climate change challenges, I believe our expert line-up of guests will help inspire and inform those who attend.

“NFU Cymru Conference is a popular event among the membership and so I encourage interested members to confirm their attendance as soon as possible.”

Those wishing to attend the conference can register by calling 01982 554200 or emailing nfu.cymru@nfu. org.uk.

Farmers angered by Habitat Wales scheme errors and payments

FARMERS’ Union of Wales members from across Wales have voiced extreme anger at the new Habitat Wales scheme after calculations revealed massive falls in compensatory payments they would receive for undertaking environmental work, and having encountered major flaws and inaccuracies in the farm maps published last week.

FUW President Ian Rickman said:

“FUW staff and officials have spoken to members from across Wales in meetings and during the process of assisting members with their applications, and there is real anger about this scheme.

“The scheme was foisted upon the industry at the 11th hour as a done deal, and while a small number of improvements have been made in response to FUW calls,

it has certainly not been developed in cooperation with the farming industry as it should have been.

“The FUW has been clear in its warnings regarding the scheme since it was announced as the replacement for Glastir in July, and these warnings have come true.”

The Union President also emphasised the FUW’s concern that there is still no clarity on the scheme budget and that the payment rates are significantly below what farmers would have received under the Glastir schemes.

“Many of our members are telling me that they are not going to enter the scheme because the income foregone and costs incurred payment rates fall well below their true value, meaning it is financially unworkable and not manageable in the real world.

“Some members have been in agri environment

schemes for up to 30 years yet they’re not going to apply because the rates are lower than they were decades ago. Surely that goes against what should be the Welsh Government’s objectives for a habitat scheme?”

Mr Rickman said the FUW has always been happy and willing to work with the Welsh Government when it comes to designing Wales specific policies and that the decision to

design the scheme in isolation without union input and announce it as a finished article just weeks before launching it demonstrated the dangers of not listening to the industry.

“Our staff have been trained and are there to help members but even with the added support provided by the FUW the barriers to entry in this scheme coupled with the much reduced compensatory payments

for undertaking actions deemed to be beneficial to the environment means that the scheme is not workable or affordable for many of our members.

“The Minister must therefore urgently review this scheme as it will fail thousands of farmers in its current form.”

Mr Rickman also warned that lessons must be learnt in terms of the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) due to be

launched next year.

“Many of the aspirations of the SFS are objected to by the FUW, while others we support. But either way, the scheme has to be practical and workable from the outset, including in terms of the application stage.

“Given that this scheme is a fraction as complicated as the current SFS proposals, lessons have to be learnt, and the SFS proposals must continue to be designed with these in mind if we are to avoid far greater problems next year.

“The Welsh farming unions have jointly proposed what we believe is a workable scheme that can be delivered over a transition period in a way that would avoid such problems, and the SFS proposals need to be developed with this in mind,” added Mr Rickman.

Welsh Lamb- a starring role in Italian blockbuster menu!

MOVE over Scorsese, De Niro and Pacino- Italy has a new hero after 120 of the nation’s top catering professionals discovered PGI Welsh Lamb’s great taste at a blockbuster menumaking masterclass staged Teolo, near Venice by Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion Wales (HCC).

HCC partnered with a leading Italian foodservice company with a 7,000-strong trade customer database to deliver an in-house cooking masterclass highlighting how Welsh Lamb can star in a full cast-list of exquisite dishes to demonstrate the world’s best premium red meat’s versatility and succulence.

And shortly afterwards, HCC produced a second feature to confirm Welsh Lamb’s star status when it was spotlighted

centre stage at a Gala dinner at the Carlton Hotel in Venice for around a hundred trade customers.

“The theme of the

menu masterclass was:

“How to best enhance Welsh Lamb in the kitchen?”” explained Laura Pickup, HCC’s Head of Strategic

Marketing and Connections. “Different recipes were chosen to show different cuts of Welsh Lamb in their best light and were kept simple to make sure the true flavour of the Lamb was the hero.

“We had fantastic feedback from the guests, at both the cooking event and the dinner, who told us afterwards that they especially enjoyed the delicate, tasty flavour and tenderness of the lamb.”

HCC’s Consumer Executive Elwen Roberts directed the show, preparing a magnificent menu of Pulled Herb Crusted Shoulder of PGI Welsh Lamb; Garlic, Lemon and Herb Stuffed PGI Welsh Lamb Shoulder; Roast Rack of Lamb with Herby Mustard Crumb; PGI Welsh Lamb Chops Milanese with Mint Pesto and Roast PGI Welsh Lamb Picanha.

Funding to help improve safety on Welsh farms

A farmer who sustained serious injuries on her family farm has welcomed news the Welsh Government is providing £80,000 to help improve the safety of farmers, their families, and visitors to farms in Wales.

North Wales sheep and beef farmer Beca Glyn has first-hand experience of what can go wrong on a farm after sustaining serious injuries in a quad bike accident on her family farm in 2018.

The funding is being awarded to the Wales Farm Safety Partnership, a collaboration of key agricultural organisations helping to drive down the number of serious incidents and deaths on Welsh farms.

The £80,000 will be used to raise awareness of farm safety by attending events, working with schools and Wales

YFC, as well as in a new children’s book on staying safe on farms.

Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths made the announcement on a visit to Richard Pilkington’s farm at Shordley Hall near Hope in Flintshire.

Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said: “Our farmers do a fantastic job, but we know the work they do can be dangerous too.

“We have sadly seen the stories of tragic incidents on farms in Wales and one incident is one too many.

“This funding will be important in raising awareness of the dangers on farms, helping farmers, their families and visitors to understand the risks and how to stay safe.”

Richard Pilkington at Shordley Hall, which is a 385-hectare dairy, arable and sheep farm, said: “It’s been great to

welcome the Minister to Shordley Farm to show the important work which takes place here.

“Many farmers often work alone which can make working safely a real challenge. I’m pleased the funding being announced will help promote the importance of safety on farms across Wales.”

Beca Glyn, who is a newly appointed ambassador for the Wales Farm Safety Partnership, has been on a mission to raise the profile of farm safety and promote safe working practices since her incident.

Beca has joined fellow Ambassadors, experienced farmers Alun Elidyr Edwards and Glyn Davies, who were appointed in 2019 and have since worked tirelessly to promote best practice to farmers in Wales.

THIS WEEK sees the return of Ag Mental Health Week, a social media campaign that is set to remind farmers, wherever they may live, that their mental health should be a priority. It encourages those in the industry to improve their wellbeing and speak about how they feel and seek help if they need it.

The FUW has been shining a spotlight on mental health issues in rural Wales since 2017 and made a promise to members to keep the issue in the limelight for as long as it remains a problem. Whilst some progress has been made in providing support through local services and charities such as the DPJ Foundation, Tir Dewi, RABI, FCN and Papyrus, much work remains to be done to remove the stigma that still applies to these issues and provide continuous access to help.

Beca Glyn, who farms at Ysbyty Ifan where her family run a flock of 1,000 sheep and herd of beef cattle, said: “I think it helps for farmers to listen to someone who has made a mistake and has had first hand personal experience of what can go wrong and the consequences of that.

“Working with Alun and Glyn, we want to spread the important message of how farmers can get better at making their farms safer places to work and live, and today’s announcement will help with this aim.”

She believes farm safety is moving in the right direction in Wales, but there is still more to be done.

Beca added: “We can all improve, whatever our farm or system, not only for our sakes but for our families and visitors to the farm like our vets.’’

Whilst we encourage anyone who needs help to reach out to those who can support them, we also ask family, friends and colleagues to reach out to family members or friends who might need help. However, there are areas that continue to require Government intervention.

The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee at Westminster published a report in May 2023 looking into rural mental health across England. The report highlighted that whilst the overall picture of rural mental health is complicated and incomplete, their evidence didn’t directly point at a mental health crisis but did highlight several areas of considerable concern.

Their evidence highlighted a very consistent set of concerns, risks and challenges to mental health in rural England. For example the ongoing impacts of Covid, Brexit, the economic ramifications of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,

labour shortages, retailer power, shock events, uncertainty over future finances, business succession plans, isolation, trade liberalisation and the cost of living all contributed challenges to the wellbeing of individuals.

The committee also highlighted that whilst access to the countryside is beneficial to those who normally live in urban settings, rural communities do suffer from isolation which is a significant challenge to the mental health of adults, children, and young people.

Whilst the report examines the situation in England, it’s reasonable to argue that farmers in Wales and our rural communities have very similar problems which are a root cause of poor mental health.

One of the solutions the committee proposed is that by December 2023, the Government should fund and roll-out mental health first aid training with the aim of creating a critical mass of front-line personnel dealing with farmers and those working and living in rural industries and areas. Such training would enable an early identification and response to the need to signpost sources of mental health support to those in need. Whilst such a development would not fix the underlying causes of poor mental health, it is commendable that this has been recommended as an action point at UK Government level.

As an organisation we have always understood the importance of being able to help our members. All our staff, Union and Insurance, have and continue to undergo training with the DPJ Foundation. We are once again running such a training session with new staff during Ag Mental health week and are proud to be able to say that mental health matters remain at the forefront of our minds.

Buying online: The dark underbelly in the Welsh puppy trade

IN WALES, an alarming trend is emerging in the puppy buying market, one that capitalises on the contemporary society’s enthrallment with social media and the ceaseless quest for the ideal pet. The Kennel Club, a premier canine welfare organisation, has released a disconcerting study that casts a shadow over the charming ‘cute’ puppy images that inundate platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Riding the wave of their ‘Be Puppywise’ campaign, The Kennel Club divulges a dark reality lurking behind the captivating pictures of pups that have become increasingly pervasive on social media platforms. It appears that over a quarter (27%) of aspiring dog owners in Wales are diverting their search for new pets to these online arenas. With little regulation and scant scrutiny, these

platforms have become a breeding ground for deceitful breeders to ply their wares to an audience hypnotised by adorable images.

A stark statistic emerges: 25% of puppies marketed on social media fall sick or perish before celebrating their first birthday. Moreover, it seems that for many Welsh buyers, the visual allure is indisputable - 44% admit to selecting their pet simply ‘because it was cute’, while a significant 28% conceded that the puppy’s photo was the pivotal factor in their acquisition decision.

Such snap decisions, driven by emotive visuals, often circumvent necessary research and due diligence. Shockingly, one-quarter of purchasers invested less than two hours in pre-purchase research, a shortcut that potentially exposes them to scams and the horrific realities of puppy farms. The intertwining threads of imprudent

purchasing decisions weave a tapestry of regret and unexpected tribulations for new owners: 49% are confronted with unanticipated financial burdens, 15% grapple with unforeseen behavioural issues in their new pets, and 19% rue their purchasing method.

The Kennel Club, voicing the concerns of canine welfare advocates, underscores that behind each heartwarming image lies a tangible puppy with genuine healthcare and welfare needs. The burgeoning social media market provides a veritable goldmine for unscrupulous breeders, enabling them to casually bypass regulatory scrutiny and sell directly to an enchanted and unwitting audience.

Indeed, it appears

that an appalling 21% of puppies purchased in Wales are suspected to originate from puppy farms. Purchasers, spellbound by online images, often overlook red flags, such as the absence of interactions with the puppy’s mother (62%), doubts about seeing the actual breeding environment (47%), and the nonavailability of vaccination records (64%).

Amidst the chaos, the influence of social media endures, with 49% of puppy purchasing decisions in Wales being influenced by these platforms. Astonishingly, 32% of buyers cite social media, influencers, or celebrities as their principal information source, prioritising them above professional veterinarians, dog welfare bodies, and breed experts.

In an era where digitised images frequently eclipse reality, The Kennel Club is advocating for a resurgence of discerning purchasing practices through its ‘Be Puppywise’ initiative, offering resources and guidance on responsible puppy buying.

With a united stand, expert organisations, breeders, and potential buyers can disrupt the nefarious practices of those who exploit innocent lives for profit and ensure that every puppy has a safe and loving home, beyond the transient allure of a social media post. Visit the Kennel Club’s official website for supportive resources and advice on prudent puppy purchasing: thekennelclub.org.uk/ bepuppywise.

UWTSD launches new Immersive Room at Carmarthen campus

THE University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has launched an innovative, state-of-the-art immersive room at its Carmarthen campus, providing students and partners with world leading learning spaces to revolutionise the educational experience.

Working with AV partner, IDNS, and part funded by the Higher Education Council Funding Wales (HEFCW), the first new learning spaces of their kind in Wales are situated at the University’s Carmarthen and Swansea campuses. The Immersive Rooms utilise Igloo Vision software and the latest Samsung LED

screens across three walls creating a fully immersive virtual and augmented reality user experience.

The Carmarthen launch at the University’s Teaching and Learning building was attended by representatives from Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion Councils, industry representatives as well as University’s staff.

The innovative, stateof-the-art immersive rooms projects has already been shortlisted for the AV Magazine Educational Project of the Year Award. Launching the room, Professor Elwen Evans, KC, Vice Chancellor of UWTSD said: “The

University has made a significant investment in its digital infrastructure to the create the best learning experience for our students and to ensue that the facilities we offer reflects industry best practice.

“This technology is the first of its kind in Wales and I’m delighted that it will be used to enhance the student experience but also that it will benefit our partners within education, business and the community”.

Laura Mills of Igloo said: “Igloo Vision is proud to have worked alongside University of Wales Trinity Saint David, IDNS and Samsung to deliver the first LED immersive space in Wales. Using Igloo Vision’s immersive

software and the latest Samsung LED technology, the space will offer engaging experiences for staff, students, and visitors.

“An Igloo immersive space is a bit like stepping into a giant VR headset - except you can get whole groups inside. Igloo designs and develops the technology that can make any space an immersive one. Any kind of digital content, including immersive virtual reality, 360° videos and images and daily office tools can be shared with whole groups in one of these spaces, so University of Wales Trinity Saint David has unlimited opportunities for what it can do with its Immersive Room. “

Vicky Jennings, Technology Consultant at IDNS said: “IDNS is proud to be delivering the first LED immersive space in Wales at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. By delivering the 18-metre immersive space using the latest Samsung LED technology, users will have a visual and sensory experience brought to life through unparalleled visuals and immaculate detail.

“This ground-breaking development sparks a new era in collaboration and engagement at the university and attests to their forward-thinking approach to using digital technologies that enhance the learning experience.”

SMG4 EV named ‘Best Family Electric Car’

THE MG4 EV has been awarded Carbuyer’s Best Family Electric Car 2023, with the Long Range model given particular praise in the prestigious awards.

Highlighting the MG4 EV Long Range’s capability of up to 281 miles on a single charge, its practicality, interior comfort, and quality, the popular electric family hatch was a stand-out winner in its category.

Carbuyer commended the strength of the entire MG4 EV range, mentioning the value for money offered by the entry-level MG4 EV SE, and the driving thrills provided by the MG4 EV XPOWER electric hot hatch.

The judging panel commented: “The base car’s a bargain and the hottest XPOWER model is a riot on the right road. Yet it’s the Long Range that’ll make more sense to most; almost 300 miles on a charge, plus strong cabin comfort and decent practicality – there really is no better family EV than the MG4.”

Since its introduction a little over a year ago, the MG4 EV has now triumphed in almost 30

major awards, including an impressive eight overall ‘Car of the Year’ titles.

Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director at MG Motor UK, said: “We are delighted that Carbuyer has recognised the MG4 EV as the best family electric car on the market. It’s already proved a popular choice for customers and, as we expand the range, its appeal continues to grow. For Carbuyer’s judges to grant us such an important award is further recognition for what MG is striving to achieve with affordable, practical and enjoyable EVs.”

Completing the MG4 EV line-up, MG Motor UK has also recently introduced a new Extended Range option, sitting above the Long Range model, further boosting driving range whilst retaining the comfort and styling of the existing award winning EV. Fitted with a larger 77 kWh battery, the MG4 EV Extended Range sees drivers able to cover up to 323 miles.

For more information about MG or to find your nearest dealer, visit www. mg.co.uk.

Leap of faith for daredevil mum and daughter with charity skydive

A mum and daughter are taking a leap of faith with skydive from 10,000 feet in aid of a dementia charity that’s close to their hearts.

Mum-of-three and grandmother-of-10

Paula Simpson, 56, a senior care practitioner at the Pendine Park care organisation in Wrexham and her eldest daughter, Carla Griffiths, 37, will raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

According to Paul, she was determined to jump into action because her beloved mum, Ann Evans, has dementia.

Poignantly, she is now a resident at the Hillbury care home which is part of Pendine Park where Paula works, as does granddaughter Leah, 19.

She said: “It really has been a tough few years. We lost my dad in June 2019 and mum slowly deteriorated following that. I am also looking after my husband, Paul, who can no longer work after a double stroke, so you could say that I am a full time carer in more ways than one.”

“It’s been hard but we are getting through and I have had so much support from my colleagues at work throughout all the bad times. They have been my salvation, so understanding and helping to keep me strong.

“In one way doing the sky dive is about keeping my strength up and giving me something else to focus on other than our own troubles.

“If I am feeling down I always think to myself that there is someone else worse off. So, if we can raise much needed funds to help others facing crises then it will be well worth it.”

Paula has set an initial fund-raising target of £450 but is hoping they may be able to raise more than that.

She said: “I know money is tight these days and people are facing ever increasing costs which is why I am asking that they give as little or as much as they can afford. Even a sponsorship of £1 works for me. Every donation no matter how

small adds to the overall target which is to boost research into dementia.”

It was daughte Carla who booked their sky dive at a top-flight centre in Whitchurch.

Paula said: “It came as a complete surprise to me. She just turned up one day and said ‘right mum I’ve booked us both on a sky dive’. I couldn’t believe it, but I immediately said, yes let’s do it.”

“I decided there and then that I had to be 100 per cent positive. I thought I’m getting too old to say no to these sorts of adventures, if I don’t do it now I never will.

“It’s completely crazy. Neither of us can even drive but we’re determined we’re going to jump out of that plane and raise as much as we can

for a good cause.”

The intrepid pair have never done anything so challenging before but they both say they are exhilarated by the thought and now cannot wait for the big day to arrive.

Paula added: “As mum’s condition worsened it became impossible to keep her safe at home so we took the decision that she should go to Hillbury. The team there are so good with her, and I get to see her as often as possible.

“I think having been a carer myself has helped me better understand mum’s condition, but it is still hard no matter how much experience you have in the sector, having a loved one succumb to dementia is always a heart-breaking and distressing experience.

“That is why we wanted to do something to contribute to the efforts to boost research. The more knowledge there is the sooner we will be able to find more effective treatments.”

Paula and Carla are hoping some family members may be able to make it to the airfield to watch them sky dive.

She said: “We don’t know exactly who will be able to get there yet, but I’m sure some family and friends are hoping to make it on the day.”

Because they don’t drive the twosome are aiming to stay at a hotel overnight local to Whitchurch in readiness to be at the airfield at their appointed time of 8.30am.

“It’s an early start but we’re determined to enjoy every minute of it,” said Paula, who lives in Gwersyllt.

Pendine Park proprietor Mario Kreft MBE said: “I take my hat off to Paula and Carla for channelling their inner daredevil to raise money for this important dementia charity.

“It is a cause close to all our hearts at Pendine but it’s particularly poignant for Paula because her mum has dementia and is a resident of our Hillbury care home.

“We wish them all the very best with the skydive and the fundraising.”

NHS charity funds self-help books for cancer patients

THANKS to generous donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, has been able to fund self-help books on managing hot flushes and night sweats for breast cancer patients.

Hot flushes and night sweats are the most commonly reported menopausal symptoms caused by breast cancer treatments.

The self-help books provide key information and tools to help patients understand the symptoms and deal with them.

Linsey Jones, Macmillan Acute Oncology Coordinator, said: “We’re very grateful that charitable funds have allowed us to purchase these books.

“We previously delivered a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) course for the management of hot flushes and night sweats to breast cancer patients who are experiencing these side effects which was funded thanks to charitable donations.

“All of the course information is provided in these self-help books, and we will give these books to patients who were interested in this

course but were unable to make it.”

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

Your donations are making a positive difference to the health, wellbeing and experience of NHS patients, service users and staff.

St John Ambulance Cymru creates nearly 3000 new lifesavers on the streets of Wales

WELSH first aid charity St John Ambulance Cymru have been delivering first aid demonstration and training sessions across Wales as part of their annual Save a Life September campaign. Volunteers and trainers held public demonstrations in all corners of Wales, teaching lifesaving skills, completely free of charge. The charity is reminiscing on the success of this year’s campaign, and how it highlighted the vital importance of first aid training to the people of Wales.

St John Ambulance Cymru’s annual Save a Life September campaign aims to promote first aid awareness and encourage as many people as possible to book onto a training course.

Throughout September, demonstrations were held in public places like shopping centres, along with local halls across the country.

Communities have been brought together at demonstrations and guidance has been shared across social media channels on the basics of first aid, such as CPR, choking recovery and severe bleeding

treatments. This year the campaign also shared key mental health first aid advice. These important skills are quick and easy to learn, but in an emergency, can mean the difference between a life saved and a life lost.

St John Ambulance Cymru is proud that following the campaign, there are more people across the country armed with the skills required to save a life. Whether it be at home, in the workplace or on the streets, the charity has been working hard to make Wales a safer place for all.

Darren Murray, Head of Community Operations

at St John Ambulance Cymru, said “We are thrilled with the success of our Save a Life September campaign this year. Our volunteers and trainers dedicated endless hours to teach the public some truly lifesaving skills.

It’s great to see so much interest in our first aid courses following our public demonstrations. It shows that the people of Wales are really engaged and want to learn more about how they can protect themselves and those close to them in an emergency.

A huge thank you to everyone who supported the campaign this year!”

Bowel screening age lowered to 51 in Wales

People aged 5154 in Wales will now automatically receive athome bowel screening tests and early detection can save lives.

Almost nine out of ten people survive bowel cancer when it is detected and treated earlier on.

Health Minister Eluned Morgan is urging people to use their kit when it arrives in the post.

“Even in the early stages of bowel cancer, you may feel well. So screening is vital to detect cancers before symptoms show, and early detection and treatment drastically improve survival rates,” she said.

Starting from today (Wednesday 4 October), people aged 51-54 who are registered with a GP in Wales will be offered selfscreening for bowel cancer, and will automatically receive an easy to use,

bowel screening kit in the post every two years.

The programme will come into full effect for the newly eligible age group gradually over the next year.

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Wales. Between 20182020 there were nearly 7000 registered cases of bowel cancer, but the survival rate is high.

Completing a home test kit is part of the bowel screening process.

In 2019, the Welsh Government introduced a new, easy to use, FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) at-home testing kit. With increased sensitivity, the kit can better detect bowel cancer in those who are at risk and has contributed to an improved screening uptake of 65% in the current age cohort of men and women aged 55 to 74.

The move is part of a phased approach to lower the screening age to 50, based on the recommendation of the UK National Screening Committee.

Minister for Health and Social Services Eluned Morgan said:

“I am very pleased to see more people in Wales having access to these precautionary, and sometimes lifesaving, bowel screenings.

“Last year, we widened access to bowel cancer screening to those aged 55-57. This next phase will now extend screening to people aged between 5154 and we plan to lower the age to 50 in 2024.

“Over the next two years we are also increasing the sensitivity of the test to make it even more effective at detecting cancer.

“Although it is

reassuring to see good uptake rates of the screening test so far, around a third of people still don’t take up the offer.

So, I would encourage everyone who is sent a kit to take the test as it could be life-saving.”

Steve Court, Head of Bowel Screening Wales at Public Health Wales, said:

“I’m delighted that we’re expanding the bowel cancer screening programme to include those aged 51 to 54 in Wales.

“Bowel screening can help find bowel cancer at an early stage, when you don’t have any symptoms. Early detection is so important because at least 9 out of 10 people will survive bowel cancer if it’s found and treated early. Bowel screening also detects and removes precancerous polyps that if left in the bowel could develop

into cancer.

“The invitation and test kit will be arriving via post to those who are eligible over the next 12 months. The home test kit is easy to complete and to send to our laboratory for analysis.

“I would urge everyone who receives an invitation to take up their offer. It could save their life.”

Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive at Bowel Cancer UK says:

“This is fantastic

news and a massive step in the right direction towards screening from 50 in Wales, which we’ve long campaigned for. Screening is one of the best ways to diagnose bowel cancer early, when it’s much easier to treat, or in some cases prevent it from developing in the first place, and so inviting more people to take part is welcomed. We encourage everyone to complete the test when they receive it.”

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Wales to Showcase Tourism Offering to International Buyers

REPRESENTATIVES

from almost 30 major tour operators - who are responsible for bringing in thousands of international visitors from all over the world to the UK every year - are due to take part in a ‘Discover Wales’ (Darganfod Cymru) event in and around Cardiff from 8-10 October.

The main aim of the event is to introduce the tour operators to Wales suppliers as part of the plan to boost international visitor numbers to the country from key markets such as the USA and Europe, which will help to increase revenue for the visitor economy.

Hosted by Visit Wales, the event will take place between Sunday 8 and Tuesday 10 October in partnership with travel trade association UKinbound, Southern Wales, The Royal Mint, GWR and The Parkgate Hotel. It will see the operators take part in a two-day familiarisation visit which includes

key attractions such as Llancaiach Fawr Manor, Nantgarw China works and Museum, Ogmore Castle and Cardiff Bay.

The operators will then take part in a networking event at The Royal Mint and a Business to Business workshop at The Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff, with 30 Welsh tourism and hospitality businesses that include Elm Grove Country House, Hensol Castle Distillery and Dylan’s Restaurants. Dawn Bowden MS, the Welsh Government’s Deputy Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism and representatives from VisitBritain will also be in attendance.

Recent research from Visit Wales reveals that tour operators in key markets generated approximately 275,000 bed nights at a value of £17.9m to Wales in 2022. Visit Wales is estimated to have influenced approximately £8.4m of the total value. UK & Irish operators (£11.1m) – domestic and inbound - have generated

more than half of the total value, with North America (£3.2m) contributing just short of half of the remainder. Over 70% of those tour operators interviewed are interested in developing or selling more Wales products, with a third of operators having ‘strong interest’.

The Deputy Minister, said: We are delighted to be working again with UKinbound to host Darganfod Cymru Discover Wales. We know how vital the travel trade is to generate tourism business to Wales, especially internationally, and fits our tourism strategy to support the three Ss: seasonality, spread and spend. We appreciate the significant role that inbound tour operators play in taking Wales products to international markets where they are active. I’m sure that the tour operators will leave Wales having seen what a world class product we have here –and we look forward to welcoming them - and their clients – back to

Wales soon.”

Joss Croft OBE, CEO of UKinbound said: “These kinds of events are vital for our tour operator members. Being able to experience firsthand the full range of authentic and amazing activities, landscapes and accommodation that are available in Wales means that ultimately they will be able to sell these more successfully to international visitors interested in coming to the UK.

“Equally, these events are a great opportunity for local businesses to establish new valuable relationships with the UK travel trade which will help them to attract more customers and more revenue which is so badly needed following the pandemic.”

Eurowelcome, the largest inbound tour operator for Spain and Latin America will be attending the event. Following discussions with Visit Wales, Eurowelcome, is expanding with a

new 2024 series of 10 tour dates touring programme for the North American market including Wales.

Chris Pourgourides, Eurowelcome, said: “We’ve developed a brand new tour to Wales as we’ve been seeing more and more interest in the market for Wales. We’re taking the icons, for example Caernarfon Castle, and mixing them with local authentic experiences and one of my absolute favourites is the Halen Mon sea salt refinery in Anglesey that you just can’t get anywhere else and we think it’s going to tick the box for a lot of what our guests are looking for. The Visit Wales team really helped us in terms of itinerary planning, but also there have been some challenges that we’ve overcome, and we could not have done that without the expertise of Visit Wales. I’m very thankful to the team and looking forward to bringing many people to Wales.”

£1.6m raised in sales for businesses following Welsh Government funding

THOUSANDS of pounds worth of sales have been generated by companies in south east Wales thanks to a Welsh Government funding programme designed to help future proof businesses.

Thousands of pounds worth of sales have been generated by companies in south east Wales thanks to a Welsh Government funding programme designed to help future proof businesses.

The Welsh Government’s Business Productivity Enhancement Project was launched in 2020 through the Tech Valleys programme, in collaboration with the Welsh Government’s European-funded SMART Innovation programme.

The Welsh Government has continued its support for productivity improvements, digital manufacturing, product

design, intellectual property and Research & Development, initially through a free productivity and design diagnostic report and the SMART Flexible Innovation Support scheme (SFIS).

The grant can be used by a company to implement recommendations received in their diagnostic report.

The aim of the project is to encourage and enable businesses to future-proof by improving efficiency through introducing new technology, diversifying their customer bases, and developing new products. Additionally, it aims to increase the security of employees and the quality of their employment, through raising skill levels and wages. All applicants are required to meet the requirements of the Welsh Government’s Economic Contract, aimed at driving fair work, inclusive growth and responsible business

behaviours.

Since its launch, the Tech Valleys Business Productivity Enhancement Project has supported 12 companies across Blaenau Gwent,JC Mouldings, Advanced Moulds Ltd, Express Contract Drying, Swan EMS, IP Site Solutions, Radical Materials, PHH Ltd, Equi-Jewell, Clam’s Cakes, Copner Biotech, Pulse Plastics and Base Handling Products.

As a result, the project has been extended to across, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Torfaen and Rhondda Cynon Taf and to-date 53 companies have received a productivity and design diagnostic and decided to implement recommendations with the aid of a BPEP grant.

An evaluation of the first cohort of recipients indicates that funding of over £170,000 has helped companies increase their sales by £1.6m collectively with 83% reporting an increase in

productivity.

Advanced Moulds Limited based in Rassau, Ebbw Vale, used the funding to build and equip a new design studio, which has allowed the company to bring the design function in-house, creating three new jobs for designers.

The company’s Managing Director, Geraint Griffiths said:

“As a carbon neutral company, employing 92 people, the Business Productivity Enhancement Programme Grant helped us to set up and equip a brand-new Design Studio for which three new designers have been recruited. This has enabled us to bring design in house for the first time.

“We have also used the grant to purchase a very large high specification Computer Numerical Control machine which will facilitate the production of both new kinds of products,

and the use of new materials. This has led to continuous growth of sales of new and existing products. This significant investment has enabled us to continue to keep on growing the company in all aspects including production, employment and profitability.’’

The Minister for Economy Vaughan Gething said:

“We are committed to supporting our businesses to thrive,

creating good quality jobs in our communities.

“The Business Productivity Enhancement Project has clearly made a real difference to companies, helping them diversify, improve and grow. We are now working with even more companies in the region to expand this support further, helping create jobs of the future and build a stronger, fairer and greener economy”

Spolitic

was finally confirmed by PM Rishi Sunak, that the promised HS2 link from Birmingham to Manchester was being cancelled. Such a U-turn was enough to make anyone think, what is a promise from the Conservatives worth?

The Liberal Democrats have accused Rishi Sunak of being so out of touch he may as well be living on another planet, after highlighting ten pressing issues facing families which the PM didn’t mention once in his speech. They are:-

1. Mortgages: The average mortgage has gone up by £220 a month in the year since the catastrophic mini-Budget, according to the Bank of England.

2. Food prices: Food prices have risen by 10% in the past year as the cost of living goes through the roof.

3. Energy bills: One in three families across England will pay higher energy bills this winter than last, rising to one in two poorer households.

4. Ambulances: Ambulance delays were their worst on record last winter and there has been no clear plan on how to prevent a similar crisis this time round.

5. Sewage: Raw sewage was dumped into rivers and coastlines 824 times a day last year after Conservative MPs have repeatedly voted to allow water companies to continue the filthy practice.

6. Dentists: 4.4 million children did not see an NHS dentist in the past 12 months despite NHS recommending that they go once a year.

7. Pensions: 12 million pensioners could lose out after Rishi Sunak failed to commit to keeping the triple lock in future years.

8. Rents: Rents have risen by an average of £110 per month over the past year since the mini budget sent interest rates

W ITH ANDREW LyE

soaring.

9. Concrete roofs (RAAC): 41 hospitals and 174 schools are impacted by the RAAC scandal which Sunak failed to mention once despite his own role in slashing funding to fix crumbling buildings.

10. Sleaze: Rishi Sunak didn’t mention disgraced ministers like Liz Truss, Boris Johnson or Chris Pincher who have received over £500,000 in taxpayer pay-outs after quitting or being sacked.

Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader, Daisy Cooper MP said: “Rishi Sunak’s speech was so out of touch he may as well have been living on another planet.

“He had nothing new to say on the big issues facing families, from the cost of living crisis to local health services that have been run into the ground.

“Our hospitals are crumbling and children are waiting in pain to see an NHS dentist, but Sunak has nothing more to offer than more broken promises and empty words.

“The Conservative Party is out of touch, out of ideas and deserves to be kicked out of office.

The sooner we can have a general election so the British people can put this government out of their misery the better.”

If the Tories were hoping for a bounce in the Rutherglen & Hamilton West by-election, following their Manchester party conference, they must be deeply worried as their share of the vote dropped from 11.1% at the 2019 General Election, to just 3.9%. The writing is on the wall for the Conservative Party.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Transport Plan

RISHI SUNAK’s speech to the Conservative Party Conference last week set out promises the Conservatives could deliver.

That’s because several of his transport infrastructure announcements refer to projects already built and even more already under construction or nearing completion.

As for long-term planning, Mr Sunak’s on-again/off-again attitude to transport infrastructure was laid bare by him reversing decisions made when he was Chancellor and after he became Prime Minister.

DELIVERING THE DELIVERED

Take the promise to spend £4bn to “improve connectivity” – including a scheme to extend the Manchester Metrolink line to Manchester Airport.

The Metrolink line already exists. It opened in November 2014.

Carelessness with language, or perhaps the Government’s unfamiliarity with transport outside England’s South-East, led to more howlers.

Mr Sunak announced £1.5bn in funding for the East Midlands “could include the potential to extend the Nottingham Tram system to serve Gedling and Clifton South”.

The extension and stop already exist – and have done so since 2015.

THE VANISHING ACT

Then there’s the mystery of disappearing pledges announced last week.

Reinstating long closed railway tracks featured in Mr Sunak’s compelling vision of restoring local transport links across the NorthWest and North-East.

No sooner were they announced than the projects disappeared from Network North’s website. For example, plans to recommission

the Leamside railway line in the North East disappeared within 24 hours of being trumpeted by the Government. Instead of a commitment to reopen, it is now a project that “will be considered”.

SUNAK GOES INTO REVERSE

One of the announcements made by the Government was the duelling of the A1 between Morpeth and Ellingham in the North East.

That was first promised when John Major was Prime Minister.

In 2010, David Cameron pledged to see the plan through. Mr Cameron unveiled the £290m proposal four years later, saying the upgrade was “a crucial part of our long-term economic plan for the North of England”.

The sound of silence and lack of progress has since been deafening. Last month, the Government said it

is Smoke and Mirrors

would delay the decision for another nine months.

Rishi Sunak’s announcement amounts to no more than rowing back on the delay to the decision made by HIS Government.

TRANSPORT RESET BACKTRACKS

The pledges relating to Northern Powerhouse Rail, a policy first advanced in 2014, are particularly eye-opening.

In 2021, despite NPR being a manifesto commitment, the Government downgraded its plans for the project. Mr Sunak was the Chancellor of the Exchequer responsible for that decision.

In 2022, Liz Truss pledged her Government would deliver NPR in full, reversing the cut.

When Mr Sunak became Prime Minister, he dropped the pledge.

Now, he’s seeking credit for partly reversing his decision under a year ago.

Promised four Conservative Prime Ministers ago, dropped by Mr Sunak when Chancellor, revived by his predecessor at Number 10, dropped by Mr Sunak on becoming PM, and now revived.

The idea that Mr Sunak’s vision is new, bold, challenging, or long-term is laughable.

Government funding for several schemes announced as though they were new - for example, local transport links across the Midlands - is already in place and - in some cases - work is already underway.

There was a loud cheer when Mr Sunak announced funding would be provided for the Transpennine link between Manchester and Sheffield.

Work on the Hope Valley Line began in 2021. It is due for completion next year.

One of the PM’s big ticket pledges is upgrading the A75 that connects Scottish ports on the west coast with

Northern Ireland ports and freight traffic.

The A75 is a trunk road. The Westminster Government has no say on trunk roads in Scotland. Mr Sunak’s pledge is one he knows he cannot deliver, even if he remains as PM after the next General Election.

TRANSPORT SECRETARY’S CAR CRASH INTERVIEW

And it got far worse for the Government on Sunday.

Mark Harper, the Transport Secretary, appeared on BBC1 for an interview with Victoria Derbyshire.

Ms Derbyshire asked him why a series of commitments made by Rishi Sunak last week to build new transport projects around the country have since been deleted.

The hapless Harper replied the projects were merely “examples” of the “sorts of things that that money could

BLUE VIEW

WITH PAUL DAVIES MS

Wales’ Water Crisis

It’s not an understatement to say that Wales is facing a water crisis. The data tells us that in 2022, Welsh Water released sewage into rivers, lakes and the sea around Wales for almost 600,000 hours and of the 83,000 spills that took place last year, 77,000 of them were considered “significant”.

These spills, whilst not illegal, undoubtedly have an impact on our environment and our health. There have been many reports of people feeling unwell after a swim and we know that marine life and fish stocks have certainly been affected by sewage discharges. Something needs to give.

opportunity to take part in a mainstream political programme, Sharp End, which specifically looked at sewage discharges into our seas and rivers and I used that opportunity to help encourage the Welsh Government to further prioritise this issue.

be spent on”.

Sadly, Victoria Derbyshire had the Government’s original document before her and refreshed Mr Harper’s memory about its content.

“Then why did you release the document saying the “Leamside Line, closed in 1964, will also be reopened”? Why release a document saying, “Bristol’s going to get a new mass transit system”?

Mr Harper floundered horribly.

“Because we gave some examples …”

“Then why delete it?”

“We gave some examples to people of the sorts of things …that that money could be spent on.”

At which point Victoria Derbyshire refreshed Mr Harper’s memory again. Perhaps next time, the Government won’t field a Minister so desperately unprepared and unable to understand the word “will” as a verb and the phrase “going to get” as an absolute pledge.

Pembrokeshire Herald readers may or may not be aware that water quality is devolved to the Welsh Government and whilst this has certainly been a live issue in recent years, the reality is that not enough has been done and water quality needs to be better prioritised by Ministers. Whilst the Welsh Government believe they are addressing the problem but 77,000 significant spills in the last year alone tell us otherwise.

I have raised my concerns about water quality with Welsh Water directly – and specifically raised sewage spills with them over the past few years. I visited Bolton Hill water treatment works in Haverfordwest recently and I raised the issue of sewage with the Dwr Cymru team during that visit. I wanted to better understand their processes and see what more can be done to improve our water quality.

I’ve also done what I can to support campaigns by writing to the Minister and raising this in the Senedd Chamber. I also had the

The reality is that we all need to work together to genuinely tackle this issue. There is no silver bullet. There needs to be serious investment in our water infrastructure to ensure it’s fit for purpose and the rules and regulations around water pollution need to be tougher. The Welsh Government need to be harder on water polluters and water companies need to be held accountable for their actions.

In fairness to the Welsh Government, there has been some progress. Taskforces have been established, summits have been held and there has been investment to upgrade the wastewater management network to reduce discharges into waterways. But more needs to happen. I keep pushing for the Minister for Climate Change to come forward with a statement to the Senedd Chamber on the Welsh Government’s action in this area and I’m pleased that a statement is now forthcoming. There must be an open and transparent dialogue with the people of Wales about the realities of where we are and we must understand exactly what the Welsh Government is doing to improve water

AGRICULTURE

must be properly supported, or the Welsh and UK Governments risk doing to farmers what Thatcher did to the miners, according to Plaid Cymru.

Llyr Gruffydd, the party’s Shadow Minister for rural affairs, has warned that a failure to deliver sufficient funding for the sector during unprecedented challenges will undermine the viability of family farms and shatter the fabric of rural communities across Wales.

During a visit to Maesmochnant Farm in Llanrhaeadr-ymMochnant, the North Wales MS pointed towards the ongoing uncertainty on funding levels for the proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme, which will replace the Basic Payment Scheme that has supported the sector for decades.

Mr Gruffydd, who was joined at the NFU Cymru round table meeting by Powys Plaid Cymru councillors Elwyn Vaughan and Bryn Davies, also took aim at the Government’s failure to confirm funding levels for the Habitat Wales Scheme. The scheme is set to bridge the funding gap between the end of Glastir in December 2023 and the anticipated start of the Sustainable Farming Scheme in 2025.

Llyr Gruffydd MS said: “When you look at the many pressures farmers in Wales face now, it’s easy to understand why they’re getting frustrated with ministers in London and Cardiff.

“The agriculture sector has seen a 40% inflation increase in costs over recent years without

a corresponding increase in farm support. In fact, funding has been falling in real terms, leaving many businesses struggling to survive.

“The UK Government has failed to live up to its manifesto promise of ‘not a penny less’ in funding for Wales post-Brexit, and the Welsh Government isn’t giving any funding certainty whilst they try to fill a £900m budget black hole.

“All this uncertainty means farms are in a state of stasis, not knowing to invest, cut back or give up altogether. Ministers need to realise just how many farmers are on the brink.

Unless adequate levels of funding are provided to support the sector to deliver on the additional demands placed on it by policymakers, the consequences could be dire.

“There’s a real risk that between them, the UK and Welsh Governments could do to our rural communities what Thatcher did to our mining communities.

“Farmers stand ready to play their part in tackling the nature and climate emergency, but they cannot deliver today’s priorities using yesterday’s budget. For society to enjoy the public goods it demands, funding must be increased, or ambitions must be lowered.

“Rural Wales needs a cast-iron guarantee that it won’t be punished for leaving the EU.

“If Welsh farmers don’t receive the funding they were promised, then the future of many family farms and rural businesses will be put at risk.”

youth Work Review Reports

THE FEASIBILITY study report into youth work funding in Wales has been published.

Appointed by the Welsh Government, three Welsh Universities have been tasked with undertaking a full review of youth work funding within the voluntary and maintained youth work sectors across Wales.

Led by Dr Darrel Williams from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), academics from Wrexham University, Cardiff Metropolitan University and UWTSD have begun their research with the aim of identifying a sustainable model for future youth work in Wales.

There are four key objectives for the funding review, which comprise three phases of research to be undertaken.

The aim of “phase one” of the funding review was to provide a clear framework for the research to be undertaken, including a rapid evidence assessment (REA) of

available literature, research on youth work practice and a look at how previous researchers have analysed funding and models of measuring value for money in Wales, the UK and beyond.

This initial feasibility study was undertaken in four local authority areas, including Wrexham, Powys, Swansea, and Newport. Dr Darrel Williams, Senior Lecturer, UWTSD’s Youth and Community Work programmes, commented: “We’re delighted to be able to publish this initial feasibility study report. The youth work funding review will provide a real opportunity for us to research youth work across Wales.

“We have already learned a great deal about how youth workers are helping young people across communities.

“Youth workers support young people in so many ways by arranging activities, mental health support, fitness, physical activity, helping with housing support and supporting

young people to achieve in school.

“We are so impressed by all the ways youth workers are supporting young people in our communities.”

During “phase two” of the review, there will be an opportunity for the research team to build on the information and evidence published in the feasibility study. The team will now focus on the key areas raised in “phase 1” by gathering more in-depth evidence from voluntary and maintained youth work settings across the four local authority areas.

The review will also sample voluntary sector organisations involved in the delivery of youth work provision in Wales and will include voluntary organisations not in receipt of any public funding.

Some of these voluntary sector organisations will have a national footprint operating across multiple local authority areas, whilst others will have a local profile.

Looking ahead to the

next phase of the review, Dr Williams added: “The research team is now looking forward to the next phase and visiting every area of Wales to gather new data for this vital review.

“Some of our initial findings have been extremely interesting, and we’re ready to explore some of these matters further during phase two of the project.

“After this work, the final phase (Phase 3) of the review will include a cost-benefit analysis aimed at establishing the impact and economic effectiveness of youth work funding.

“We’ll also seek to identify good practice in relation to the funding of local youth work services for the future as we work towards identifying a sustainable model for future youth work in Wales.”

You can read the “Phase 1” feasibility report by clicking on the following link: https:// www.gov.wales/youthwork-funding-reviewinitial-report

Wales-Ireland Relationship Examined

CULTURAL,

political and economic cooperation between Wales and Ireland needs more protection, says the Senedd’s International Relations Committee.

A report to the Committee found significant benefits being reaped from many projects that work in partnership across the Irish Sea.

A WARNING FROM PEMBROKESHIRE

The Committee has concerns that good work could be undone after EU funding finishes and the plan for cooperation between the two countries ends in 2025.

Evidence from Pembrokeshire County Council, which supports several EU-funded projects working cooperatively across Wales and Ireland, said: “…nothing of any great significance has been put in place to replace [EU programmes which are drawing to a close.]”

“There is a risk, or even a likelihood, that many of the relationships established between Welsh and Irish organisations through the programme will wither.

“There is now a vacuum in Welsh-Irish relations such that it is not at all clear how

cross-border initiatives are to take place, other than at the sole initiative of individual organisations in Wales and in Ireland.”

GOVERNMENTS MUST PROVIDE CERTAINTY

The Committee calls for both Welsh and Irish Governments to provide certainty and to commit funding beyond the end of the current Wales-Ireland shared statement and joint action plan.

Delyth Jewell MS, Chair of the Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport, and International Relations Committee, said: “The stories and legends which link Wales and Ireland have withstood the test of time, as has our historic relationship – and though the foundation of that relationship has been shaken by Brexit, our Committee has found much evidence of the mutual benefit of an ongoing kinship between these nations.

“Questions remain as to how joint work between the nations will be resourced in future years. Clarity is required on this matter, and urgently – for it would be regrettable indeed were this to place any limits or lead to any loss in the

close ties that link the two countries.

“And it’s incumbent on all of us – governments and parliaments – to do more to protect that relationship.

“Despite these challenges, our Committee was encouraged to see the significant goodwill, passion and enthusiasm so many partners feel about continued cooperation across the Irish Sea.

“From ports to marine technology, our nation’s answers to the most pressing crises facing our populations lie in joint working and innovation, and from our conversations with cultural organisations and artists, we have been gladdened to see that the rich tapestry which weaves and connects our national stories is as vibrant as ever.”

THE SHARED STATEMENT AND JOINT ACTION PLAN

The report, WalesIreland Relations: Exploring an Old Relationship in a New Age, looks at the Welsh Government’s approach to relations with Ireland, as set out in a document signed by both Welsh and Irish governments: The Shared Statement

and Joint Action Plan for 2021-2025.

The Committee found broad support for the Statement and evidence of multiple positive and effective crossborder cooperation examples. However, The Committee was concerned that awareness of the Statement was low and more work was needed to present the strategy clearly to key stakeholders.

The report makes several recommendations to improve transparency and understanding of this approach, including that the Welsh Government should produce an annual report on its progress in developing WalesIreland relations.

Many stakeholders working across the Irish Sea mentioned the need to plan further ahead than 2025, including projects working cooperatively in the life sciences, health and climate change sectors.

The report recommends that the Welsh and Irish governments commit funding to WalesIreland relations beyond 2025 without delay to provide certainty to stakeholders and ensure that opportunity costs are minimised.

At last week’s Conservative Party conference, the UK Prime Minister announced that the northern leg of the much maligned HS2 project from Birmingham to Manchester was to be scrapped…

For some time now, we have written of the, likely negative, impact of this project on Wales.

For, according to a research briefing published on the House of Commons Library website in 2021, “unlike Scotland and Northern Ireland, Wales does not receive Barnett consequentials directly from HS2 spending because national rail infrastructure in England and Wales is reserved to the UK Government and for this reason, HM Treasury has assessed that HS2 is a “national project” which benefits both countries”. This, despite the fact that not a single metre of track is – or will be – laid in Wales.

As a result, Wales is missing out on up to £5bn of Barnett consequentials that could be invested in much needed public transport here in Wales.

So, imagine our surprise (or perhaps not) when it was announced that the northern leg of this project was to be dropped… with the Manchester leg of the journey now scrapped, one can now scarcely imagine any benefit at all derived from HS2 to Wales.

Likely announced as an inducement to potential Red Wall voters, PM Rishi Sunak also somewhat kindly (or perhaps, cynically) announced some crumbs from the table for Wales… in the form of proposal to electrify the West to East Coast North Wales mainline.

Great if you live in North Wales perhaps… however, what about badly neglected lines and train elsewhere in the country? What about connections to North and South Wales from Mid and West Wales perhaps? What about connections to the East of the country and beyond?

One could cynically suggest that the electrification of the North Wales coast line has nothing to do with improving “connectivity” and may have

something to do with maintaining Red Wall seats in North East Wales. All roads lead to London as they say, which is likely very apt in this instance.

Once again, we have a government in Westminster setting priorities for Wales, without understanding the scale of need here, without understanding the need for more investment in our infrastructure and services. Indeed, they certainly do not understand nor appreciate the impact that poor connectivity across Wales has on our communities and our economy.

In Wales, we desperately need improved public transport across the country – to connect North and South, and East with West across the length and breadth of the country.

The Beeching cuts of 1963 instituted by the then UK Government, recommended the closure of 189 rail stations and vital links across Wales. This was in addition to the 166 Welsh stations and halt-stops already marked for closure prior to the Beeching report.

The impact of these closures has had a devastating impact on our railways and public transport system – and they continue to be neglected, for, despite Wales occupying 11% of UK rail tracks, Wales has received only 2% worth of UK rail investment since 1997.

Though Welsh Government have made efforts to improve connectivity here in Wales, the £500 million expended on the South Wales Metro and the £70 million interestfree loan to support the reopening of the Ebbw Vale to Newport service pales in comparison with the £72 – £98 billion originally forecast for the HS2 project in England!

Just imagine how much we could invest in the improvement of our own public transport at just a fraction of ridiculous costs.

Of course, that will only happen when we are independent – and are free to set our own priorities!

death notices

MICHAEL PUFFETT

PUFFETT Michael The death occurred peacefully at home on 1st October of Michael Puffett, age 68 of Slade Lane, Haverfordwest. Dearly loved husband of Anne, adored father and grandfather. A funeral service will be held on Monday 23rd October, 11am at St David and St Patrick Catholic Church, Haverfordwest. Donations are welcome in Mike’s memory direct to the Paul Sartori Foundation.

OLIVE LAWRENCE

MRS. OLIVE LAWRENCE

Amroth The death occurred peacefully at Caldey Grange Care Home, Pentlepoir on Sunday 1st October 2023, of Mrs. Olive Margaret Lawrence, aged 93 years, formerly of Trelessy Farm, Amroth. Devoted wife of the late Rhys. Dearly loved Mum of Richard, James, John and Margaret. Cherished Grandma and Great-Grandma. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday 17th October 2023 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 12.15pm. There will be family flowers only

with donations in lieu, if so desired, for Dementia UK c/o E.C. Thomas & Son, Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH and 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk

ERIC MANN

Mr. Eric Mann Pembroke Dock The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Sunday 24th September of Mr. Eric Mann, formerly of Dock Street, Pembroke Dock. He was 80. Dearly loved father of Bridgette and Erica, grandfather to Dylan, Liberty and Akira and a much loved brother and uncle. Eric will be sadly missed by all his family and many friends. The funeral will take place today, Wednesday 11th October when those wishing to attend and say goodbye to Eric may meet at Hobbs Point, Pembroke Dock at 11.30.am. This will be followed by a strictly private cremation in accordance with Eric’s wishes. Flowers will be welcome and may be brought to the service or if preferred, donations

may be made to the RNLI. All further enquiries may be made to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

RICHARD LAWS

Mr. Richard Laws of Keyston Passed away peacefully at home on 25th September 2023. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Funeral Service on Wednesday 1st November 2023 at Albany Church, Haverfordwest at 2.00 pm followed by committal at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3.15 pm. Family flowers only. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son (01437) 763821

SHANE NEVILLE STORROW

Shane Neville Storrow of Hook Shane passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on the 29th September, 2023 aged 49 years. Dearly loved, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Funeral service, Friday 20th October, 9.30am at Albany Church, Haverfordwest followed by 10.45am at

Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Shane for the National Autistic Society, Cymru can be made at www.autism. org.uk. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

JOAN ASBy

Mrs. Joan Asby Cardiff ASBY, Joan originally of Milford Haven before living for many years in Narberth and then Saundersfoot, passed away at home in Cardiff on 25th September 2023, aged 79 years. Much loved Mum of Ceri and Rhodri, mother in law to Oro, devoted grandmother to Ramiro and Eiriona, a dear cousin to Bill, John, Fiona, Diane and Pat, and a dearly loved friend of many who has left a lasting legacy in Pembrokeshire. A public funeral service will be held at Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH at 11am, Friday 13th October. Traditional funeral attire welcome but a splash of colour, especially Joan’s favourite colour green, would be appreciated by the family. Donations in lieu of flowers are encouraged to

Macmillan Cancer Support and the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales as two charities Joan supported over a number of years. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Milford Haven. Tel: 01646 693180.

MARGARET ELLIOTT

Mrs. Margaret ‘Joan’ Elliott Milford Haven The death occurred peacefully at her home on Wednesday 4th October of Mrs Margaret Joan Elliott, aged 83 years of Thornton Road, Milford Haven. Dearly loved wife of John and devoted mother to Bethan and her partner Tom. Joan as she was affectionately known as will be greatly missed by her family and friends. The funeral will take place on Wednesday 18th October at 11am at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Pelcomb Bridge, Haverfordwest, SA62 6EA followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 12.15pm. Family flowers only, donations if desired may be sent to The British Heart Foundation, Compton House, 2300 The Crescent, Birmingham Business Park, Birmingham,

B37 7YE. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

MARION JOHN NEyLAND

Mrs. Marion John Neyland The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Wednesday 4th October of Mrs Marion John, aged 93 years of Kensington Road, Neyland and formerly Neyland Terrace, Neyland. Loving wife of the late Mike John. She will be greatly missed by her daughter and son in law Penny and Julian Brown and Grandson Bertie Brown and all that knew her. The funeral will take place on Friday 20th October at 12.15pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Wearing green or yellow, Marion’s favourite colours would be encouraged for those that want to. Family flowers only, donations if desired may be sent to Greenacres Animal Rescue, Ebbs Acres Farm, Talbenny, Haverfordwest, SA62 3XA. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180

Pause for thought...

I couldn’t help noticing the change in language. I was travelling back from Swansea when I heard the news that there had been a terrible accident near Venice. A bus had crashed off a flyover and burst into flames leaving at least 21 people, including several children dead. The Mayor of Venice was quoted as saying it was “An apocalyptic scene’, By the morning news ‘apocalyptic’ had been replaced with the word ‘momentous’ and it got me wondering if it was because a news editor had concluded that the term ‘apocalyptic’ is not that well known today. That would be a reasonable conclusion given our post Christian culture, but I couldn’t help thinking that ‘momentous’ hardly conveys the true meaning of the word ‘apocalyptic’.

Let me explain. The Greek root basically means ‘to uncover, reveal,

lay bare, or disclose’. It could be used of a veil or curtain that has been drawn back to reveal things that were hidden from sight for example. That’s why the last book of the Bible is an example of apocalyptic literature. It claims to take us behind the scenes so that we can catch a glimpse of the unseen principles that affect the world, and how we ought to respond to the things that happen to us in life.

Revelation chapter 8 is particularly relevant. It describes a series of trumpets blasts followed by a series of disasters of ‘epic proportions’ because the writer wants us to know that the disasters that hit us may not be God’s specific judgements, but they are warnings that we shouldn’t take life for granted. The day is coming when we will all stand before Him too, or to put it simply we all need to be prepared for what

will prove to be THE ‘epic moment’ of all time.

CS Lewis understood this. He once described himself as ‘perhaps the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England but after he came to faith he wrote these perceptive words: ‘God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”

Lewis was pointing out that many of us have little time for God until trouble comes knocking at the door and then it’s all change. As the wellknown saying goes ‘There are no atheists in the trenches.’ When people are in trouble then, the Bible makes it abundantly clear that God expects us to do what we can to help them, but we need to appreciate that God is also trying to catch our attention before it’s too late.

Rob James

picture of the week!

LETTER IN SUPPORT OF ISRAEL

DEAR SIR,

It is tragic but not surprising that Palestinians are rising up and trying to fight back after so many years of repression, killings and ethnic cleansing. Israel is heavily armed with most of their ‘civilian’ population armed too. The latest far right government is the most racist and fanatical yet and over the last year has ramped up the arrests, woundings and killings of unarmed families as more of their homes are demolished and lands and water resources are taken over in Jerusalem and

the West Bank and life in the besieged Gaza strip becomes more impossible.

I don’t think many people listening to the news have any idea of the extent of the colonialist repression that the Israeli apartheid state has perpetrated on the Palestinians. We are not even told of the increasing number of Israeli’s who do not support the armed occupation of the West Bank. Nor are we told how the Israeli state is becoming more and more authoritarian and less democratic even for the Israelis themselves.

The only way to get peace in Israel/ Palestine is for our governments to stop supporting Israel with funds and propaganda and to tell the truth. The

continuing horrendous human rights abuses that are carried out daily by the Israeli Armed Forces and armed illegal Israeli settlers need to be publicised, called out. The one sided media coverage in the West must stop. It is obvious that as Israel continues its colonial repression then more and more desperate Palestinians see no option but to try to fight back. Of course they cannot win an armed battle, they are the much weaker side. But we can at least call out for true peaceful negotiations that treat Palestinians on an equal basis to Israelis. Or do we want the horrors to continue and the high tech Israeli bombers to kill more thousands of people in besieged Gaza? If Israel continues the

Autumn Swells by Huw Williams

siege, destroying all possibility of any hope for a life or future they can expect more and more violence. Violence begets violence. To end the cycle of killings the siege of Gaza must end, the ethnic cleansing and house demolitions in the West Bank and Jerusalem must stop and honest negotiations to settle the conflict must start.

Angie Zelter

LACk OF TRANSPARENCy: 20MPH LIMIT

DEAR SIR, I find myself contacting you as my contact with Lee Waters (Welsh Climate Change Minister) has been ignored. I contacted

Mr Waters on 25/09/23 and requested a reply (even a small acknowledgement) within 2 weeks to discuss the matter, no reply was ever received.

I emailed again today (10/10/23) outlining that I would now be forwarding the below email to all Welsh/National media outlets to highlight the misinformation that is being spread regarding the 20mph limit in Wales. I received a reply within 1.5 hours. I advised in the reply that I will be continuing with my proposal as I feel my original email was ignored.

Many of us residents in Wales have not been informed of what data was used to bring about the 20mph limit. More so we were

LEGAL NOTICE

never informed that it would actually be worse for our health by implementing it.

Despite a petition reaching over 400,000 signatures the Welsh Government are not listening to us and are not taking the voice of the Welsh people into consideration.

Thus I find myself reaching out to you. We need people to know they have been provided false information. We need people to know the true facts and figures.

I would therefore request an article/ media piece be written about this and published so not only the Welsh population but also the national population know the truth.

Ashley Morrell.

Summons/Jean M Masters (Highfield) Arizona Superior Court, Navajo County David J Silver Enterprises LLC, An Arizona limited liability company, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Plaintiff, vs. Jean M Masters (Highfield) et al. UNITED KINGDOM, WALES Defendant. No. CV2023-00156 Summons State of Arizona, 86025 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA to the above-named Defendant: Masters Jean M (Highfield)

I. A lawsuit has been filed against you.

II. If you do not want a Judgement taken against you for the relief demanded in the accompany Complaint, you must file a Response In writing in the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court, 100 E Code Talker Drive Holbrook, Arizona 86025 United States of America accompanied by the necessary filing fee. A copy of the Response must also be mailed to the Plaintiff/ (Pro Se) whose name appears above.

III. The Response must be filed within

Twenty Days, exclusive of the date of service, if served within the State of Arizona, or within Thirty Days exclusive of the date of service, if served outside the State of Arizona.

IV. This is a legal document, if you do not understand its consequences, you should seek the advice of an attorney.

Witness My Hand and the Seal of the Superior Court. Dated: April 26, 2023 Clerk Of the Superior Court By /s/ illegible Deputy Clerk David J Silver (Pro Se), Member of David J Silver Enterprises Limited Liability Company, An Arizona Company, 33789 N Barbara Drive San Tan Valley, Arizona U.S.A 85142 (480) 544-4895

Requests for Reasonable Accommodation for Persons With Disabilities Must Be Made to the Court By Parties At Least 3 Working Days in Advance of A Scheduled Court Proceeding. If you wish to obtain a copy of the Complaint, please contact David J Silver (Pro Se), Member of David J Silver Enterprises Limited Liability Company, An Arizona Company, 33789 N Barbara Drive San Tan Valley, Arizona United States of America 85142 (480) 544-4895

ServiceS CARAVANS

CAR PARTS

CARPENTRy

CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHy

CLEARANCES

ELECTRICAL

FENCING, DRIVEWAyS AND LANDSCAPING

FABRICATION

GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING

HAIRDRESSING

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

PODIATRy

SCRAP METAL

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

STORAGE TANkS

SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE

TECHNOLOGy AND COMPUTERS

TRAILERS

VAN CONVERSIONS WINDOWS

Cymru triumph in Wrexham

IN A TRIUMPHANT return of international football to Wrexham, Cymru showcased their prowess by defeating Gibraltar in a friendly match at the historic Stok Racecourse.

Despite resting key players for their upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier against Croatia, the Cymru team dominated the game, securing a 4-0 victory.

Cymru took an early lead with captain Ben Davies and Kieffer Moore scoring headers, swiftly followed by Nathan Broadhead’s skillful finish and another header by Moore, bringing the score to 4-0 by halftime. Despite a less eventful second half marked by numerous substitutions, the capacity crowd appreciated the significance of the match, understanding that tougher challenges awaited, especially the vital clash against Croatia.

The fixture held

Goodwick thrash poor Bridge at Phoenix Park

G

OODWICK

UNITED stormed to an 8-0 victory against a struggling Merlins Bridge at Phoenix Park, reaffirming their dominance in the league. The match unfolded as a one-sided affair, leaving the Wizards’ camp in disarray and the spectators in awe.

his marching orders, leaving his team a man down. This numerical disadvantage only emboldened Goodwick, who exploited the situation to the fullest. Dalling, in particular, demonstrated his exceptional skill, adding to his tally and further deepening Merlins Bridge’s misery.

immense importance as it marked the return of men’s international football to Wrexham after a hiatus since 2019, and only the second time in 15 years. Recognizing the inconvenience faced by their northern fans, who usually have to travel long distances to Cardiff City Stadium for matches, Cymru’s decision to play in Wrexham was a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to their loyal supporters.

Captain Davies, leading in the absence of the injured Aaron Ramsey, opened the scoring with a closerange header, followed by Moore’s brilliant header, courtesy of a precise cross by debutant Charlie Savage. Broadhead then added to the tally with a deceptive turn and precise shot, before Moore struck again just before halftime, heading in a cross from Daniel James.

The second half saw Cymru’s flow disrupted due to numerous substitutions, with manager Robert Page keen on safeguarding his players for the crucial fixture against Croatia. Despite the slight disjointedness, the match provided valuable insights for Page and his team, emphasising the importance of managing players’ workloads effectively.

Right from the kickoff, Goodwick seized control, scoring within the first minute. A precise long ball by Steff Hayes unsettled Merlins Bridge’s defence, leading to a crucial mistake by Jordan Thomas. Exploiting the opportunity, midfielder Rhys Jones calmly slotted the ball past Gary Thomas, setting the tone for Goodwick’s relentless onslaught.

Although Gibraltar proved to be a modest opponent, the match served as a platform for Cymru to express their appreciation for their northern fanbase. The Stok Racecourse, the world’s oldest stadium still hosting international football, witnessed a stellar performance, leaving the fans hopeful for the upcoming challenge against World Cup semi-finalists Croatia. As the spotlight now turns to the Croatia fixture, Cymru remains focused on the ultimate goal: securing a favourable result on Sunday.

The first half belonged entirely to Goodwick, with Rhys Jones leading the charge with a remarkable hat-trick. Rhys Dalling and Will Howarth also joined the goal-scoring spree, leaving Merlins Bridge reeling at 5-0 by halftime. Manager Chris O’Sullivan’s strategy paid off handsomely as his team exhibited exceptional coordination and skill on the field.

The second half saw no respite for the beleaguered Wizards. Goodwick continued their offensive onslaught, with James Bryan, Rhys Dalling, and substitute Kyle O’Sullivan all finding the back of the net. Bryan’s header, orchestrated by Dalling, further extended the lead to 6-0, showcasing Goodwick’s prowess in set-pieces.

However, the match took a darker turn for Merlins Bridge when Ryan Evans received

The final blow came deep into stoppage time when substitute Kyle O’Sullivan, displaying the same determination as his uncle, manager Chris O’Sullivan, found the net, completing the 8-0 rout. Merlins Bridge, under the stewardship of Wizards boss Jay Kennedy, now face the daunting task of regrouping swiftly to salvage their season after this devastating defeat. Goodwick United’s commanding performance not only secured their place at the top of the table but also sent a resounding message to their rivals. With their players in fine form and their strategies finely tuned, they have firmly established themselves as the team to beat in the league.

Line-ups:

Goodwick United: Kyle Marsh, Steff Hayes, Ben Adams, James Bryan, Scott Delaney (Captain), Luke Hayward, Rhys Jones, Jake Smith, Rhys Dalling, Will Haworth. Subs: Jonny Horgan, Steven Dockerty, Kyle O’Sullivan.

Merlins Bridge: Gary Thomas, Henry Thomas, Andrew John, Jordan Thomas, Ryan Evans, Nick Squire (Captain), Gino Dragone, Dai Davies, Alex Thomas, Steffan Williams, Will Evans. Subs: Josh Silk, Leon Davies, Tom Jago. Referee: John Jenkins.

Manderwood peMbrokeSHire league

Fixtures • 14th oct

DIVISION

Herbrandston v Narberth

DIVISION

Clarbeston

Pendine v Haverfordwest CC

Pennar Robins II v Kilgetty II

DIVISION 4

Carew III v Tenby II

Milford United v Camrose II

N Hedges & Saundersfoot v Monkton Swifts III

Newport Tigers v Milford Athletic

Prendergast Villa v Angle

St Ishmaels II v Fishguard Sports II

DIVISION 5

Broad Haven II v Johnston II

Haverfordwest CC II v Cosheston II

Lawrenny II v Pembroke Boro II

Letterston II v Hundleton

Milford Athletic II v Herbrandston II

Narberth II v St Clears II

Rugby World Cup: Week

Portugal stuns Fiji in thriller match, securing historic victory

Portugal scripted a historic moment at the Rugby World Cup, stunning Fiji in a thrilling encounter. The passionate Portuguese side, displaying unwavering determination, overcame Fiji 24-23 in a match that will be remembered for years to come. This victory marked Portugal’s firstever Rugby World Cup win, a feat celebrated not only by their fans but also resonating across the rugby community.

Ireland Dominates Scotland, Setting QuarterFinal Clash with All Blacks

Ireland showcased their prowess on the rugby field as they dominated Scotland in a high-stakes World Cup clash. Reminiscent of their performance in Japan four years ago, Ireland outshone Scotland with an exceptional firsthalf display, scoring 26 unanswered points. Despite Scotland’s valiant efforts, Ireland’s solid defence and efficient attack propelled them to a commanding 36-14 victory. Ireland’s remarkable win

secured them a spot in the quarter-finals, setting the stage for a mouthwatering clash against the All Blacks.

Argentina Secures QuarterFinal Berth with Thrilling Victory Over Japan

Argentina emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Japan, securing their spot in the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup. Right from the start, Argentina displayed their determination, scoring their earliest World Cup try and maintaining their lead throughout the match.

Despite Japan’s spirited performance, Argentina’s efficiency in the red zone and dominance at the breakdown proved pivotal. The final scoreline stood at 39-27, marking Argentina’s ticket to the next stage where they will face off against Wales.

New Zealand Dominates Uruguay, Setting Sights on Quarter-Final Challenge

New Zealand asserted their dominance in the Rugby World Cup with a commanding 73-0 victory over Uruguay. Despite a resilient start from Uruguay, the All Blacks showcased their ruthless efficiency,

eventually overwhelming their opponents. This victory marked New Zealand’s continued resurgence after their opening-night defeat to France, sending a powerful message to their upcoming opponents in the quarterfinals.

France Crushes Italy in Pool A Showdown

In a Pool A showdown, France delivered a masterclass performance, crushing Italy 60-7. France’s relentless attacking prowess resulted in a deluge of tries, setting a record for their most tries in a pool stage at the Rugby World Cup. For Italy, the match ended in disappointment, highlighting the challenges they faced throughout the tournament. France’s impressive win solidified their position in the competition, setting the stage for a fierce quarterfinal battle against the Springboks.

Wales Overpowers Georgia, Maintaining Perfect Pool Stage Record

Wales continued their impressive form in the Rugby World Cup,

Week 5 round-up

overpowering Georgia with a 43-19 victory. While Georgia posed an initial challenge, Wales found their rhythm and asserted control. With a flawless set-piece performance, Wales became only the third team in the tournament to achieve a 100% setpiece success rate in a match this year. This victory marked Wales’ third consecutive pool stage win, showcasing their determination and readiness for the challenges ahead.

England Survives Samoa Scare, Extending Unbeaten Pool Stage Run

In a closely contested match, England narrowly survived a scare from Samoa, securing an 18-17 victory. Nigel Ah Wong’s brace of tries kept Samoa in the hunt, making the match a thrilling spectacle. However, England’s resilience and Owen Farrell’s record-breaking performance as their top points scorer in men’s Test rugby propelled them to victory. With this win, England extended

their unbeaten run in the pool stage, setting a positive tone for their upcoming fixtures.

Tonga Triumphs Over Romania, Ending Pool Stage on a High Note

Tonga ended their Rugby World Cup campaign on a positive note, securing a 45-24 victory over Romania. Despite both teams seeking their first win in the tournament, Tonga’s superior performance on the field ensured their triumph. Romania, despite an improved showing, couldn’t match Tonga’s determination, concluding their World Cup journey on a challenging note. Tonga’s victory provided a glimmer of positivity in what was a tough pool stage for both sides.

As the pool stage concludes, the Rugby World Cup enters its thrilling knockout phase, promising fans around the world more intense battles and unforgettable moments on the rugby field.

Wales receive injury boost

WALES has confirmed that key players Liam Williams, Gareth Anscombe, and Dan Biggar remain in contention for selection in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final clash against Argentina in Marseille.

The trio had raised concerns due to recent injuries, sparking worries among fans and experts alike.

Wales, led by coach Warren Gatland, has been riding a wave of success with an unbeaten streak in the tournament. However, their fortunes took a hit with Taulupe Faletau being ruled out after breaking his arm. The stakes are high as the team approaches the knockout stages, making the recovery of Williams, Anscombe, and Biggar crucial for their World Cup aspirations.

Anscombe’s situation had looked dire when he suffered a groin injury during the warmup before the win against Georgia. His visible distress raised apprehensions, but the Welsh camp remains optimistic about his

recovery. Dan Biggar, who had recently returned to full training following a pectoral injury sustained against Australia, was cautious not to aggravate his condition.

Liam Williams, the team’s full-back, had been nursing a knee injury sustained in Nantes. Despite initial concerns, Wales has consistently downplayed the severity of his injury, providing a glimmer of hope for his participation in the upcoming clash.

Head of physical

performance, Huw Bennett, provided reassurance, stating, “As far as I’m aware, everyone’s available for selection.” Bennett further elaborated on the players’ conditions, mentioning that both Anscombe and Williams were recovering well. Williams had been seen on crutches after the game, but this precautionary measure did not imply a grave situation.

Bennett acknowledged the disappointment surrounding Faletau’s

absence, describing it as a “sobering” moment for the team.

Reflecting on Faletau’s loss, Bennett highlighted the team’s need to persevere, stating, “We’ve been lucky so far without injuries but sadly it happens; we’ve got to move on.” Despite the setback, the Welsh camp maintains confidence in their squad’s depth, hoping to overcome the absence of Faletau and focus on the challenge posed by Argentina.