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Your award winning local paper • FRIDAY November 17th 2023 • ISSUE 536 • ONLY £1.50
plans for a 49.9MW Battery Energy Storage System in the vicinity of Rhoscrowther • P9
Tourism in Wales plummets 12% post-pandemic • P10
Tenby barber jailed for framing innocent man • P10
Ambitious energy storage plan near power station
Remembrance day photo special see pages 35 - 39
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NEWS 3
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Ascona Group’s £40,000 donation Alleged rugby club assault POLICE are investigating reports of an alleged assault in the early hours at a rugby club. Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of an assault which is said to have taken place at Fishguard RFC between 12am and 1am on Saturday, September 30. Officers are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with any information which could help the investigation, to come forward. For the latest crime
and court news for West Wales, you can join our Facebook group here. A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Police are appealing for witnesses to an assault that took place inside Fishguard RFC on September 30, 2023, between 12am and 1am. “Anyone present at the club at or around the time of the incident, please get in contact with police via 101, quoting crime reference number 23000947361”.
Update after knife incident
PEMBROKESHIRE’S Ascona Group has made a donation of £40,000 to its charity partner, the Wales Air Ambulance. After Ascona made an initial donation of £10,000 in March 2023 to celebrate the start of the partnership, the Group has made this additional donation following the success of its fundraising activities over the last few months. Ascona anticipates raising over £100,000 for the Wales Air Ambulance over the course of the year-long partnership, through all of its proposed activities. The partnership helps to support the Wales Air Ambulance in their mission to deliver lifesaving medical care to people across Wales, whenever and
Ascona Group boss Darren Briggs Tom Sinclair
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wherever they need it. The service relies entirely on charitable donations to raise the necessary £11.2 million in funds to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the roads across Wales. Darren Briggs, Founder and CEO
of Ascona Group, commented: “Since we launched Ascona in 2011, supporting our local communities has been at the heart of everything we do so I am very proud that we are able to support the Wales Air Ambulance in their vital work. “I am thrilled that we were able to make another significant donation to the charity,
and we remain on track to hit our ambitious fundraising target which will help to ensure this fantastic charity can continue to deliver lifesaving medical care to people across Wales.” Mark Stevens, Head of Fundraising, Wales Air Ambulance Charity commented: “We are all amazed at the level of support from Ascona Group. This is the certainly the most ambitious pledge received from a business to the charity in recent years. Working with Ascona on the partnership has been positive and rewarding. It is very rare to partner with a business that demonstrates such high levels of Corporate Social Responsibility. On behalf of all crew, staff and patients, thank you.”
ARMED police were called to Aberaeron on Tuesday afternoon following reports of a man holding a knife. Dyfed-Powys Police were called after it was reported that a man was possibly carrying a knife in the area around Panteg Road. Officers, including armed police, attended “immediately” and the area was searched. Following their investigations, DyfedPowys Police provided an update saying that the man had found the knife on the beach and was carrying it home “to ensure it could not cause any harm”.
A police spokesperson said: “We received a report that a man was seen possibly carrying a knife in Aberaeron. “A number of our teams were sent to the area to carry out a full search, and it was established that a walker had found a knife on the beach and was taking it home to ensure it could not cause any harm. “We would like to thank those who gave information to help our enquiries, and reassure that we are satisfied the individual had good intentions. For this reason, we urge people not to name the individual involved on social media.”
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Accused of burglaries and card fraud A RESIDENT of Pembrokeshire, Norman Smith, aged 45, residing on Stover Avenue in Sageston, has been accused of a series of burglaries and fraudulent activities involving the illicit use of two women’s bank cards to make purchases exceeding £200 in a single day. Smith, who appeared via video link at Swansea Crown Court on 13th November, faces charges on six counts of fraud by false representation, specifically related to transactions made at Bargain Booze on 8th October. It is alleged that Smith, without the consent of the cardholders, engaged in fraudulent activity by making six distinct purchases amounting to £217.25 using the bank cards of the two women. The first complainant’s card was reportedly utilised four times to
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acquire £133.67 worth of alcoholic beverages, while the second complainant’s card was allegedly employed for two purchases amounting to £83.58. Additionally, Smith is charged with burglary in connection to an incident at an address on Front Street in Pembroke Dock on 9th October, as well as burglary with intent to steal following an alleged break-in at an address on Imble Street, also in Pembroke Dock, on the subsequent day. Furthermore, Smith stands accused of carrying a knife in a public place in Tenby on 10th October. During the proceedings at Swansea Crown Court, it was disclosed that Smith faces a separate set of charges pertaining to events alleged to have
occurred on 18th October. These charges include three additional counts of burglary, encompassing two purported breakins in Prendergast, Haverfordwest, and another on Perrots Terrace in the town. He is also charged with attempted burglary in Prendergast,
Haverfordwest. At a plea and trial preparation hearing, defence counsel Stuart John requested an adjournment to allow time for instruction on the second set of charges. Judge Geraint Walters concurred, agreeing to postpone the hearing for a period of two weeks.
Police probe after body found on beach
DETECTIVES from Dyfed-Powys Police are investigating, following the discovery of a man’s body on a Pembrokeshire beach on Sunday (Nov 12), it has been confirmed. A multi agency operation was launched involving lifeboats, and a coastguard helicopter after the alarm was raised around lunch time A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said that the death was not being treated as suspicious and that the man’s next of kin had been identified. The police Tom Sinclair spokesperson said: Editor@herald.email “Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of
a man who was found on a beach near Penally, Tenby on Sunday, November 12 2023.
“Next of kin have been identified. The death is not being treated as suspicious at this time.”
NEWS 5
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Train named after Carew Castle Magic’s magical mental cure WHETHER it is comedians such as Robin Williams or famous painters such as Van Gogh, many creative people have long been known to suffer with their mental-health. But new research shows that the same is not so of magicians. According to Aberystwyth University, they are all but exempt from the inner turmoil
experienced by other artists. And that has been attributed largely to the difficulty of the tricks they perform. The study, published in the journal BJPsych Open, measured the psychological traits of 195 magicians and 233 people from the general population and compared it with data from other creative groups.
Minister sorry for Thatcher gaff
The ‘Carew Castle Express’ has been unveiled to mark the introduction of brandnew Transport for Wales (TfW) trains between Swansea and Carmarthen. Named as part of TfW’s Magnificent Train Journey competition, the name ‘Carew Castle Express’ was chosen by year 5 pupil Rhys Protheroe from Johnstown Primary School in Carmarthen. Rhys and other children from the school were invited to Carmarthen Railway Station today (Thursday 16 November) to see the winning name on the side of one of TfW’s brand new Class 197 trains. The Class 197s have recently been introduced between Swansea and Carmarthen, offering greater capacity and enhanced on-board comfort. Work is progressing to introduce the trains further west
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to Milford Haven and Fishguard Harbour, which is expected to be completed later this year. Soon every service west of Carmarthen will be on one of the brand-new trains. Alexia Course, Chief Commercial Officer for TfW, said: “We’re excited to be running our brandnew trains in West Wales and we’re adding more to our network every few weeks. “The new trains really transform the customer experience and as we add more to our network, we’re building resilience and seeing an improvement in our performance. “We’re delighted to be able to invite one of our Magnificent Train Journey competition winners along to see their chosen name on the train and help inspire the next generation
of travellers to chose public transport.” As part of an £800 million investment into new trains, TfW first introduced the Class 197s to the Wales and borders network at the start of this year. Over the coming months and throughout next year, TfW will continue adding new trains to their network, with 37 Class 197s already delivered and another 40 to come. CAF UK Director Richard Garner commented: “CAF are extremely proud to play a key role in delivering TfW’s commitment to transform rail travel for passengers, ensuring a high quality, reliable and comfortable journey.” “As a local employer we are invested in providing highly skilled jobs at our Newport, South Wales factory to support local employment opportunities whilst focusing on sustainability issues and addressing the needs of the Welsh economy. Today’s unveiling of the ‘Carw Castle Express’ as named by a local schoolchild further strengthens this relationship with the Welsh communities.” The Class 197 will run throughout the length and breadth of the network and will become the backbone of TfW mainline services. On the South
Wales Metro, 60 new trains and tram trains will be introduced from 2024 onwards to complete the transformation of our fleet.
WALES’ health minister apologised on Monday after she joked that the late Margaret Thatcher could be next for government. Commenting on a reshuffle that saw David Cameron return to cabinet, Eluned Morgan said on Facebook: “What next? Thatcher’s hearse arriving at No.10?!” Tory MP Fay Jones said it was a “nasty little
post”. A spokeswoman for Ms Morgan said the minister apologised for any offence caused. The message has been deleted. The post from the Labour Member of the Senedd for Mid and West Wales included a picture of Lady Thatcher’s funeral hearse as it passed Downing Street in April 2013.
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NEWS 7
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NRW flood plan focuses on Tenby
A NEW report by Natural Resources Wales says homeowners in Pembrokeshire and the rest of South West Wales will have to get used to the risk of flooding. Jeremy Parr, NRW’s Head of Flood and Incident Risk Management, also says Wales cannot build its way out of flood risk and that the limits on what can be done or afforded will increasingly affect homes at risk from rivers, tides, storms, and increasing rainfall. The greater frequency of extreme weather events and rising sea levels means more action is needed to adapt to the impact of those threats. The report says Wales must do more to mitigate and adapt to the inevitable flooding. However, not all communities at risk will or can be protected. In Pembrokeshire, NRW will focus on the area around Tenby. Parts of the outlying area of the town flood almost annually from a combination of weather, tides, and river flooding. The road along the seafront at Amroth and parts of Saundersfoot are likely
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indefensible from future flooding. Accordingly, NRW will stress adaptation and preparedness for future change in the area through work scheduled for the next three to four years. Meanwhile, other parts of the County - around Milford Haven and Newgale, for example - will likely have to fend for themselves in
the face of coastal and watercourse flooding. Tw e n t y - s e v e n thousand residential properties are at risk of flooding across South West Wales. Of those, 9,600 are at high risk. In addition, 85 square kilometres of agricultural land in South West Wales, one-fifth of Wales’s agricultural land, is at risk of flooding. Throughout South West Wales, there is 22km of rail track and 240km of road at
risk of flooding from the sea. In addition, there are 53km of rail track and 600km of road (major and minor) at risk of river flooding. And flooding is likely to get much worse. Across South West Wales, NRW predicts that by 2120, over 24,000 properties will be at risk of flooding from rivers, and over 15,000 properties will be at risk of flooding from the sea. Jeremy Parr, Head of Flood and Incident Risk
Management at NRW, said: “More frequent and more extreme flooding and storm surges are becoming the new normal and are already posing greater risks to lives, infrastructure and property. “How we plan for and manage our flood risk in response to that has farreaching consequences for communities in Wales. “From making improvements to our Flood Warning Service and our engineered defences, through to greater use of nature-based solutions and whole catchment approaches, our plan sets out how we will prioritise our action over the next six years to reduce that risk to people and property in areas most at risk. “However, we must recognise that the risk of flooding can never be removed entirely. Whilst NRW invests heavily in flood defences, we cannot just build our way out of the issues we face. Wales will need a combination of measures to help communities become more resilient. “It means making big
decisions about where development is allowed and learning to live with more water than ever. “It means we must build or convert properties to be more resilient to flood water so that people and businesses can bounce back quicker when the waters rise. We need to ensure people know the steps they can take to reduce the impact of flooding.” Mr Parr concluded: “The defences and schemes we have invested in over the years, coupled with the other critical services we provide like the Flood Warning Service, can make a life-or-death difference when the rain starts to fall. “Providing these services will always be at the heart of how NRW manages the nation’s risk, but they are not the silver bullet. “It is essential we prepare for the unavoidable impacts by taking action and building in resilience now so that when flooding does happen, it poses much less risk to people, does less damage, and helps ensure life can get back to normal much quicker.”
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Jordan Cooney sentenced to over five years in prison Jordan Cooney, 28, of Dewing Avenue, Manorbier, has been sentenced to more than five years in prison for a brutal robbery that unfolded in Pembroke Dock. Dyfed-Powys Police have released a harrowing image of Cooney, the face of a man who subjected his victim to a relentless onslaught, leaving him battered and terrified. The incident occurred on the evening of September 26 this year, when Cooney, under the influence of alcohol and cannabis, launched a vicious attack on a considerably older man in his Pembroke Dock flat. The victim, who bore the brunt of up to 30 blows to his face, recounted the horrifying experience in a victim personal statement presented during the trial at Swansea Crown Court last week. In the chilling testimony, the victim expressed the profound impact of the robbery, stating that his life had
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been irrevocably altered. He now lives in constant fear, both outside and within the confines of his home. “I have never been hurt so much in my life,” he remarked, detailing the haunting nightmares that now plague his sleep. The court heard that Cooney, aware that his victim was due to receive benefits at midnight on September 26, orchestrated a premeditated plan to exploit this knowledge. He ruthlessly demanded the victim’s debit card and PIN number during the assault, persistently striking him in the face between each word. Cooney’s motive became evident when, shortly after midnight, he visited a cash point in Pembroke Dock and successfully withdrew £500 from the victim’s account. Judge Mr Recorder J Powell KC condemned the calculated nature of
the crime, describing it as a “deliberate plan” aimed at extracting money once the victim’s benefits had been deposited. The injuries sustained by the victim were deemed “appalling,” and the judge expressed relief that more serious injuries or fractures had not occurred. Cooney’s crime didn’t end with the initial assault. In a horrifying turn of events, when the victim attempted to escape, Cooney pursued him, dragging him back into the flat by his hair, and subjected him to further physical violence. The police, upon responding to the victim’s property, discovered him with a severely swollen and bloody face, with blood stains marking the brutality of the assault. Arrested on the afternoon of September 27 in Monkton, Cooney was found in possession of two bags of cocaine worth approximately £100. Initially denying charges of robbery, fraud,
and causing actual bodily harm, he later pleaded guilty to the charges at Swansea Crown Court on Friday, November 10. In court, it was revealed that Cooney had a troubling criminal history, with 16 previous convictions for 39 offenses. Shockingly, he was on bail and under supervision at the time of the robbery and assault. Cooney’s defence cited his remorse and a genuine commitment to addressing his issues, including drug misuse and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite this, Cooney was handed a five-year and three-month prison sentence, with half of the term to be served behind bars and the remainder on licence. The sentencing sends a stern message about the consequences of such heinous acts, as the community grapples with the aftermath of a crime that has left indelible scars on the victim and the town of Pembroke Dock.
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NEWS 9
Consultation for proposed Battery Energy Storage System
A RENEWABLE energy firm, Sirius, has this week unveiled plans to develop and manage a 49.9MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) spanning approximately 3.5 hectares of land in the vicinity of Rhoscrowther and Pwllcrochan, within the Pembroke region of South Pembrokeshire. The proposed project is positioned adjacent to the Greenlink Converter Station, to the south of the Pembroke Power Station and Valero Oil Refinery. The Battery Energy Storage System is envisioned as a pivotal element in the shift from conventional fossil fuels to renewable energy, ensuring a consistent and clean energy supply. This cutting-edge facility will store energy derived from renewable sources, releasing it during periods of heightened demand to guarantee a reliable and secure energy supply, especially during intervals of low generation, such as when solar or wind resources are not optimal. Consequently, the implementation of battery
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energy storage is set to play a crucial role in addressing the Climate Emergency, aligning seamlessly with the Welsh Government’s ambitious target of achieving 100 percent renewable energy sourcing for Wales’ electricity needs by 2035. A public consultation has been scheduled, running from November 15th, 2023, to December 14th, 2023. The primary objective is to disseminate comprehensive information about the project proposals. Sirius Renewable Energy aims to foster engagement with the local community and broader stakeholders who may be directly impacted or hold an interest in the venture. This outreach seeks to solicit valuable feedback that will contribute to the refinement of the emerging plans. Dan Elvin, Principal Planner at Sirius Planning, expressed enthusiasm about the consultation launch:
“We are pleased to initiate the consultation phase for the Lambeeth Battery Energy Storage System application, which will be subsequently submitted to the Pembrokeshire County Council. This process is integral to shaping our plans as we develop detailed proposals for the project.” Elvin added, “We encourage input from stakeholders, technical consultees, and the local communities as we navigate through the preapplication phase.” In adherence to the Planning (Wales) Act 2016, a statutory preapplication period of 28 days is mandated before the formal submission of the planning application to Pembrokeshire County Council. The ultimate decision on planning permission rests with the council. For more detailed information, interested parties are invited to visit www. lambeethbatterystorage. co.uk to peruse the project plans and gain a deeper understanding of the proposed initiatives.
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Tourism in Wales plummets 12% post-pandemic
IN THE WAKE of the COVID-19 pandemic, Wales is grappling with a significant downturn in international tourism, according to the latest data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) covering the first two quarters of 2023 (January to June). During this period, the figures indicate a notable decline in inbound visits to Wales, with only 403,000 recorded—a staggering 12% drop compared to the same period in 2019. The financial toll on the industry is equally pronounced, as visitors spent £188 million. While this represents a marginal 1% increase in nominal terms compared to 2019, when adjusted for inflation, it discloses a disconcerting 20%
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reduction in real visitor spending. Tom Giffard MS, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Tourism Minister, voiced his concerns, shedding light on what he perceives as a lack of vision and ambition on the part of the Labour Government: “Labour Ministers, in an attempt to obfuscate the reality, are glossing over the figures, but the unembellished statistics lay bare their lack of commitment to the flourishing Welsh tourism sector. “The Labour Government’s postCOVID strategy has fallen woefully short in attracting visitors to Wales. Instead of fostering growth,
they have burdened the industry with detrimental policies, such as the controversial tourism tax and exorbitant 300% council tax premiums for selfcatering accommodation businesses—a move seemingly made to appease their nationalist cooperation partners. “In stark contrast, the Welsh Conservatives offer a concrete plan to support the beleaguered tourism sector, providing a positive alternative strategy. Ours is the only party committed to reversing Labour’s counterproductive policies, policies that have garnered support from Plaid and the Lib Dems.” The news comes as Montgomeryshire MS Russell George say many holiday let business may
close as a result of new rules that have been introduced by the Welsh Government, A new survey from the Professional Association of Self-Caterers UK has indicated that as many as 75 percent of selfcatering accommodation businesses in Wales are set to be hit by the Welsh Government’s 182-day
letting rule and associated council tax premiums of up to 300 per cent that business leaders have warned ‘could destroy’ the sector. In a move designed to make more local housing accommodation available, the Welsh Government has implemented occupancy thresholds to at least 182 days per
year for businesses letting properties. Failure to meet this threshold could see holiday let business owners face a second homes council tax premium of up to 300 per cent. A business currently paying £10,000 in rates could therefore face increased bills of up to £40,000.
at Llanllwch. Ali, who resided on St Mary’s Street in Tenby at the time, submitted misleading information on a notice of impending prosecution form, alleging Mr. Kareem was the driver during both incidents. Mr. Kareem, prosecuted in absentia, faced a £440 fine and six penalty points on his licence. The deceit began to unravel when police probed two Swansea addresses provided by Ali, discovering they were part of ‘NIP farms’ – properties used to facilitate traffic offence evasions, often promoted on social media platforms like TikTok. The real victim,
Mr. Kareem, suffered gravely. He lost his driving licence, car, job, and other work opportunities, spiralling into depression and experiencing suicidal thoughts. His victim statement poignantly expressed the ordeal as worse than physical assault or burglary. Investigations by the police, including fingerprinting, mobile phone analysis, and automatic number plate recognition, conclusively proved Ali’s presence at the crime scenes, while Mr. Kareem was elsewhere. Initially denying the charges, Ali eventually pled guilty in court. Ali, recently residing on Ship Street in
Brecon and a temporary humanitarian resident in the UK from Iraq, was described by his defence solicitor, Jon Tarrant, as naïve and reliant on others for administrative tasks. Tarrant highlighted Ali’s remorse for his actions. Judge Mr. Recorder J Powell KC sentenced Ali to eight months in prison, with a subsequent driving ban of one year and four months. Upon release, he faces a £156 victim surcharge and a year of supervision under licence. This case serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of perverting justice, impacting not only the perpetrator but the innocent lives caught in the web of deceit.
Tenby barber jailed for framing innocent man in speeding offences A SHOCKING case of perverting the course of justice was unveiled at the Swansea Crown Court involving Diyar Ali,
a 30-year-old barber from Tenby, who falsely accused another man, Mr. Kareem, of two speeding offences committed in his
Toyota Yaris. The first offence occurred on April 21, 2021, in Sketty, and the second on February 27, 2022, on the A40
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NEWS 11
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Joyce Watson at the heart of bTB storm • •
bTB-hit farmers should find another business, says Labour MS • Unions and local farmers react with outrage Opposition parties slam “insensitive” and “ignorant” Watson
LABOUR Regional MS and former Pembrokeshire County Council Labour Group leader Joyce Watson has come under fire for “insensitive”, “uneducated”, and “ignorant” remarks made in the Senedd. On Tuesday, November 14, the Senedd debated the Welsh Government’s consistently failing strategy for eradicating Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB). BTB is a scourge on Wales’s dairy and livestock farms. However, the Welsh Government has done nothing to curtail the badger population, a known vector for the disease. Since 2011, the Welsh Government has tried movement restrictions, a rigorous - but fatally flawed - cattle slaughter programme and TB vaccinations. Instead of eradicating the disease, incidence in the worstaffected areas remains more-or-less static, while the disease has now spread to previously TBclear areas. Earlier this year, an NFU Cymru report found Bovine TB is continuing to put an immense financial and mental health strain on farmers in Wales - with the cost of the disease to each farm business averaging more than £25,000 in the past year alone. In the survey, 85% of respondents said that TB negatively affected their mental health, with 89% stating that the Welsh Government’s actions were poor or very poor. WATSON’S WORDS PUT FARMERS ON WARPATH On Tuesday, Lesley Griffiths, Wales’s parttime Rural Affairs Minister, addressed the Senedd, desperately trying to spin gold out of straw. The statement was much the same as its predecessors. Any
Joyce Watson: Labour MS finds national limelight for all the wrong reasons. Jon Coles
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faint glimmer of good news was a breakthrough wholly due to Welsh Government wisdom. As usual, any failures were either negligible or someone else’s fault. O p p o s i t i o n spokespersons Sam Kurtz MS and Mabon ap Gwynfor pressed Ms Griffiths for some shred of hope for farmers. The Minister offered them warm words but thin gruel. Enter Joyce Watson into the debate. The loyal backbencher can always be relied upon to help out Labour ministers with softball questions and smears on opposition politicians. She did not disappoint. “I know that the opposition and Plaid are intent on killing badgers. In fact, in England, they’ve killed 210,000 badgers in their bovine TB eradication policy, and yet there’s no proof at all that that has contributed in any way whatsoever to the decline in TB in cattle. It is a barbaric practice,
and in some cases, there has been local extinction of badger populations.” Bovine TB in cull areas in England has fallen by up to one-fifth. Eliminating the wildlife vector for infection in other countries has practically eliminated bTB. Neither are badgers an endangered species. Rather, their expanding population has endangered other species. But evidence has always ranked behind point scoring for Ms Watson. Point scoring has also ranked ahead of representing the interests of an area of Wales largely dependent on agriculture, tourism, and the food, drink and hospitality industries. Joyce Watson’s next remarks provoked fury. “But if we’re talking about a rethink, Minister, have you looked at any farms with perpetual TB status, and have you considered whether those particular farms should be dairy farms at all? Because if it is the case that they are in perpetual
TB infection status, surely they need to find another business.” FARMERS’ FURY Farmers and unions responded swiftly and with devastating criticism. NFU Cymru labelled Joyce Watson’s about farming families affected by bovine TB as “deplorable, insensitive and shocking”. Pembrokeshire farmer Roger Lewis chairs NFU Cymru’s Bovine TB Focus Group. In an open letter to Joyce Watson, Mr Lewis, who has toiled manfully to promote a Welsh Government bTB pilot scheme in Pembrokeshire, said: “I was truly saddened and disappointed to hear your insensitive comments in the Senedd following the statement made by Minister Lesley Griffiths about the Bovine TB Eradication Programme. “I am struggling to put into words my frustration that a Member of the Senedd elected to represent Mid & West Wales could make such deplorable comments,
so lacking in empathy and respect for the farming families in your constituency going through the emotional hell of dealing with an outbreak of bovine TB on their farm. “Your suggestion that these families, many of whom are suffering persistent bovine TB breakdowns despite adhering to strict veterinary and scientific advice, should just walk away and find another business is – frankly – shocking. “In the debate yesterday, the Minister and opposition spokespeople positively referred to the Pembrokeshire Bovine TB Project, a project led by local farmers and vets seeking to find solutions to this disease within the constraints that Welsh Government policy decisions have set. “I am proud to be a part of this initiative and sincerely hope that the project can give a chink of light to those farming families and businesses that, yesterday, you appeared to dismiss completely. “I invite you to spend a
day with us to learn more about this work. “A visit would allow you to meet some of the farming families who are determined to find a way to rid this disease from our countryside and certainly have no intention of walking away and finding something else to do, as you suggested yesterday.” FUW Deputy Head of Policy Dr Hazel Wright said: “Dairy farmers labouring under an emotionally and financially draining TB breakdown will no doubt be incensed by the uncompassionate and uneducated comments made by Joyce Watson in response to the Minister’s TB statement yesterday. “Bovine TB is an insidious disease which is extremely complex in its aetiology, and we recognise that there are no quick fix solutions to the control or eradication of this disease. “It could well be argued that those farmers under the perpetual TB breakdown described by Ms Watson remain so due to a costly, bureaucratic and flawed TB eradication programme which fails to protect farm businesses and cattle from sources of infection that are outside their control. “Sadly, our farmers will continue to pay for an eradication programme borne out of politics and not science.” On Twitter, Pembrokeshire farmer Steve Evans, who had part of his herd culled in October, said: “To continue with more of the same mishandling and expecting different outcomes is the ultimate failure of governance. “2041, as Griffiths claimed last night, as the target for eradication is 17 years away. “Given the explosion in TB during the last 20 years of Labour rule, I live with more than a bit of scepticism about it all whilst the bastardisation of rural Wales continues
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at a pace.” Farmer and broadcaster Gareth Wyn Jones said: “With farmers at breaking point with TB pressure and hiking costs and lowering milk prices so much pressure from all different directions; this is a politician’s comment. Unbelievable and the biggest insult to our industry.”
should be a conversation about how that situation can be resolved or improved. “Wales has had a TB Eradication Programme in place since 2008 and, recognising the stress and anguish TB can have on farming families, the Welsh Labour Government continues to offer support initiatives.” That did not answer our questions about how many farms Joyce Watson thought should give up. It did not answer our question about what businesses she thought farmers should take up to replace farming. Neither did it provide details of an assessment of the effects of ending farming on prime agricultural land on the rural economy in Mid and West Wales Ms Watson’s statement puts one thing in perspective. The Welsh Government has had a bTB eradication strategy for fifteen years. It has failed. What the Welsh Government has instead is a cattle and farming
AN APOLOGY? Joyce Watson’s response to the criticism does little to address farmers’ concerns regarding her remarks. In a confused and confusing statement, the Labour MS said: “Had I had longer to speak, I would have explained that I was talking about several farms TB has continuously impacted and the ongoing pressures of the current systems. “I know that the cycle of having to test, cull, and start all over again causes huge stress to dairy farmers. “In those cases, there
eradication policy. PLAID SLAM WATSON Cefin Campbell, Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd for Mid & West Wales, who is also one of Plaid’s Designated Members under the Labour-Plaid Cooperation Agreement, said: “Since my election to the Senedd in 2021, I have had countless farmers contact my office – many close to breaking point due to the emotional and financial strain placed on them by bTB. “Despite farmers taking all necessary precautions, many herds are still afflicted by this dreadful disease. Labour must rethink its approach as very little progress has been made in recent years.” Plaid Cymru’s agriculture spokesperson, Llyr Gruffydd MS, wrote to Joyce Watson asking her to apologise for her “deeply insensitive” comments. Llyr Gruffydd has also asked Lesley Griffiths
to distance herself from her colleague’s remarks and clarify the Welsh Government’s position. Mr Gruffydd’s letter to the Minister said: “The sheer volume of constituents from the farming community contacting me, some in tears, underlines the insensitivity of [Joyce Watson’s] comments. “I therefore ask you to dissociate yourself from the Member for Mid and West Wales’s ignorant comments and to clarify whether they represent the views of the Welsh Government.” SAM KURTZ HITS OUT AT WG FAILURE Welsh Conservative Shadow Rural Affairs Minister Samuel Kurtz MS said: “Bovine TB has been a scourge on Welsh agriculture for well over a decade, and successive Welsh Labour Governments have failed to get to grips with this disease. “Their failure to use all available tools and their
ignorance of science and data because of political dogma does nothing to offer hope to Wales’ farmers.” Mr Kurtz highlighted the Welsh Government policy to slaughter heavily pregnant cows with calves still trapped in utero. In those circumstances, Welsh Government rules force farmers to slaughter the cow and watch the calf struggle for life before dying inside its mother’s corpse. Sam Kurtz said: “I’ve long campaigned on the need to review the policy on in-calf cattle slaughter, and I’m pleased my calls are being listened to. But this is a decision that the Minister can make. “The insistence on passing the buck to a body that does not yet exist is more cankicking from the Welsh Government.” Sam Kurtz continued: “A Labour backbencher’s call for dairy farmers to ‘find another business’ if they’re under TB
restrictions shows a complete lack of empathy for farming families suffering with the consequences of the Welsh Government’s lack of progress on Bovine TB eradication. “For years, farmers have followed the rules set by the Welsh Government on TB. “So, the real question is why, after all these years, do we still have continuous TB breakdowns in Welsh herds? “It’s because the Welsh Government fails to grab this situation by the scruff of the neck and do what is necessary to eradicate TB. “Farming needs a friend, and it’s clear from the Labour Member’s comments that farming will find no friends within the Labour Party. “Only the Welsh Conservatives will do what is necessary to eradicate TB and be that friend to farming that farmers desperately need.”
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Health Board appoints interim boss JUDITH HARDISTY, Interim Chair at Hywel Dda University Health Board, has announced that Professor Philip Kloer has been appointed as the Health Board’s interim Chief Executive Officer from February 2024. The announcement was made following the statement shared by www.onedevon.org. uk/one-devon-news/ nhs-devon-appointsnew-chief-executiveofficer/ that Steve Moore, Hywel Dda’s current Chief Executive Officer, has been appointed as the Chief Executive of NHS Devon Integrated Care Board, effective 12 February 2024. Judith Hardisty, interim Chair at Hywel Dda University Health Board, commented: “On behalf of everyone at Hywel Dda, I would like to congratulate Steve on his appointment as Chief
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Executive of NHS Devon ICB. Steve has been an excellent leader at Hywel Dda and he will be sorely missed by so many of us. We wish him well in the next chapter of his career.” Steve Moore, Hywel Dda’s Chief Executive Officer, added: “Leading Hywel Dda for close to nine years has been an incredibly humbling experience, and one I will be forever grateful for. I have worked alongside remarkable individuals – people who go above and beyond every day to deliver the best care possible for members of our community - thank you to everyone for your unwavering support over the years. I wish Phil and the Hywel Dda team all the best for the future and look forward to hearing of Hywel Dda’s progress for
many years to come.” Professor Kloer joined Hywel Dda in 2005 as a respiratory physician. During his time with the Health Board, he has held several senior leadership roles, including Director of Clinical Strategy and interim Executive Director of Primary Care, Community, and Mental Health services, before his current role as the Medical Director and Deputy Chief Executive Officer. He has significant experience of leading large scale, whole system strategy development and change programmes and led the Transforming Clinical Services programme in West Wales and the Health Board’s 20-year health and care strategy – A Healthier Mid and West Wales. Ms Hardisty continues: “Congratulations also go to Phil as he steps into his new role as interim Chief
Executive Officer. Over the years, Steve has invested in developing a dedicated and strong Executive team, who will continue to lead our Health Board and ensure stability of leadership while our sector faces increased pressure. “As a seasoned leader and longstanding member of our Hywel Dda family, I am confident that Phil, together with the Executive team and Board, will continue to lead our Health Board with care and compassion – which is particularly important as we navigate through the challenges facing the NHS in Wales.” Professor Kloer adds: “It is a privilege to be appointed interim Chief Executive. Working alongside Steve during the past nine years has been an honour and pleasure, and I am grateful to him for his dedicated leadership and
bringing our values to life every day. “As a health board, and a sector, we face several challenges, particularly as we enter the winter months; but I am confident that with the support and dedication of all our 13,000 employees that we have at Hywel Dda, that we will rise to the challenge and work together to serve our
communities the best we can. I look forward to taking on this new role and continuing to lead our organisation with kindness and ensuring that our people and our communities remain at the heart of everything we do.” Professor Kloer is appointed to his new role on an interim basis for up to a year.
NEWS 15
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Transport interchange decision made in secret TOP local councillors agreed to award a contract for the first stage of the £20m Haverfordwest Public Transport Interchange behind closed doors earlier this week. At the November meeting of the county council’s Cabinet, members agreed to go into private session to approve the awarding a contract for Stage 1 pre-construction services for the interchange, on the basis a public discussion would lead to the disclosure of exempt information. The long-running saga of the interchange was back before Cabinet as , at the July meeting of Cabinet, members heard that no compliant tender had been received, delaying the replacement bus station and multi-storey car park project works. At that meeting members agreed any tender award only taking place following an additional report to Cabinet
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for consideration. Members at that meeting heard the full value of grant funding had been secured, with a £1.9m cost to the council for the circa £20m scheme, agreeing to a temporary car park be created on the demolished remains of the previous multi-storey. It has previously been said the completed
interchange, part of a wider Western Quayside development in the town which is expected to be completed next year, would generate annual revenue for the council from at least a “pessimistic” £150,000, but figures of up to as much as £400,000 have been quoted. In late January, councillors heard a doubling of the costs of Haverfordwest’s public transport project to nearly
£18m – with figures now quoted as nearer £20m – was not fully communicated with the public. The November decision to go into private session – following a call from Cllr Rhys Sinnett rather than Deputy Leader Cllr Paul Miller, who was unable to attend the meeting – came under social media scrutiny. Councillor Huw Murphy asked why the matter had gone into private session,
adding: “Surely not the cost having mushroomed from £8.1 million to now around £20 million.” Cllr Miller, on social media, confirmed total costs would be “in the region of £20m,” but added: “What he [Cllr Murphy] has deliberately not said is that the council’s contribution is expected to be about 10 per cent of that (c£1.9m) and income from the completed car park estimated as circa £400,000 per year.” He said that figure would be roughly double the pooled interest rate on £1.9m. Cllr Miller went on to say: “I would also say we’re building a car park to serve the town we’re building, not the town we have. “Ultimately these investments are thought through, do have the buy-in of both UK and Welsh Governments (who ultimately are directly providing the vast majority of the funding which would otherwise be spent on
the same things in other counties) and, while I know people can’t see it yet, they are generating interest from the private sector in occupying these sites at strong commercial rents (and that will become evident later this year and into next when those tenancies are announced).” Cllr Murphy responded: “It’s all well and good saying PCC are only paying 10 per cent of the final cost (which is to be confirmed) but I contend a value-engineered Interchange/bus stop with the money saved spent on the NHS, WAS, social care etc would be money much better spent on both the residents of Wales as well as PCC.” He added: “Frankly I should also point out that with a total project cost of £20 million and if, as you state, we make £200,000 per annum then it’s a one per cent annual return on this project, and that is not good business.”
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NEWS 17
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MP calls on fuel retailers to cut prices MIKE EDWARDS in line with lower wholesale costs
THE LARGEST fuel retailers are enjoying higher-than-average profit margins at a time when households and small businesses are struggling, a west Wales MP has said. Plaid Cymru’s Treasury spokesperson, Ben Lake MP, has called on major retailers to cut fuel prices in line with lower wholesale costs. Speaking in the House of Commons on Tuesday (November 14), he told the Exchequer Secretary, Gareth Davies MP, that the cost of fuel is a “big concern for rural constituencies” and asked for an assessment of the impact of higher margins on households. Mr Lake has backed a campaign by the RAC for petrol prices to be cut by 5p in light of concerns that the biggest fuel retailers have increased
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their profit margins in recent months. The RAC said the big four supermarkets were making the most profits from petrol – an average of 16p for every litre of unleaded fuel sold in October, and 12p for every litre of diesel. It also said the profit on unleaded fuel was double the average the supermarkets had been making since 2012. Speaking in the House of Commons on Tuesday, Mr Lake said: “The Minister will be aware that a big concern for rural constituencies is the cost of fuel. “The RAC has found that the margin enjoyed by the big supermarkets’ on fuel sales in October was double the figure for
the year to date at 14p per litre. That reflects concerns raised by the Competition and Markets Authority that although wholesale prices of fuel fell in September and October, retail prices did not. “What is the Treasury’s assessment of the impact that these higher margins will have on households in the coming winter?” Mr Davies responded: “Fuel duty is a major cost for households and businesses, we recognise that. That’s why in the Spring Budget 2023 the Chancellor extended the 5p temporary duty cut. This was a £5bn saving for motorists and £100 per average motorist, but we always keep this things under review.” Speaking after the session, Ben Lake added: “It is all well and good for the UK Government to cut
fuel duty, but household budgets will not benefit from the decision if the supermarket fuel retailers absorb the duty cut in order to increase their profit margin on each litre of fuel, as appears to have happened in recent months. These higherthan-average margins follow revelations unearthed by a Competition and Markets Authority investigation this summer that the big four supermarkets had overcharged by as much as 6p a litre in 2022, to a total cost of around £900m. “According to RAC analysis, the average profit margin on fuel prior to the war in Ukraine was 4.7p per litre, but since the outbreak of war this has increased to an average of 9.5p per litre. The average profit margin for October 2023 is higher still. It is clear that the UK’s largest fuel retailers are enjoying higherthan-average profit margins at a time when households and small businesses can ill afford the additional cost. The price of fuel is a concern across the UK as it is a key driver of inflation, but rural communities are particularly exposed to higher prices as we typically need to travel longer distances to access services, work, and education. Furthermore, at a time when bus services are being cut mercilessly, higher pump prices are compounding the impact of a lack of local public transport. “The UK Government and CMA have themselves expressed concerns about the fuel retail market. It is high time that they act to ensure greater transparency in the way in which pump prices are set to ensure that they reflect a fair deal for all. In the meantime, I join the RAC in urging big retailers to cut fuel prices by 5p a litre to better reflect the wholesale cost of fuel.”
The weather continues. It always does. Some smart aleck wrote about the gentle rain from heaven falling to the place beneath. Not here, it ain’t. The rain is not gently falling. It’s engaged in a battle with the ground reminiscent of the bombing of Dresden during the War. I spent time preparing the garden for autumn during the brief dry and sunny interlude on Sunday. I uprooted weeds, chopped back brambles, and gave the front lawn a savage cut. After that, I set about planting goodness knows how many bulbs. My beloved likes daffodils. So do I. She thinks they’re happy flowers. My view? They’re easy to grow and unfussy about where you plop them. I created two small borders and then planted crocuses and irises in the lea of the hedge to provide longer flowering planting to naturalise in the lawn. The sun shone; I was warm and worked up quite a sweat. I used bulb fibre and compost to bed on the bulbs. Afterwards, I staggered inside to admire my handiwork from a distance with a cuppa. The front garden looked impeccable. I gazed out of the rear window. The back garden did not look impeccable. It looks even less impeccable now. Two separate events curtailed my good intentions to venture forth and tackle the back of our house the following day. First, I was stiff as a board. Parts of me ached that I did not care to probe too vigorously. Second, I spotted a rat scurrying across the backyard, heading towards next door. Our poor neighbour is plagued with the little sods, and I do my bit to keep them under control and out of our
garden. I have an arrangement with rodents. They keep out of my sight, and I don’t scream like Dracula’s victim in a Hammer horror movie before trying to brain them with whatever is to hand. Last year, I impressed myself by executing a perfect wedge shot into next door’s rhododendrons. However, I had neither a golf club nor bicycle clips handy last weekend. I did, however, have a large quantity of washing I was rescuing from the rain. The wife was not amused. The little bugger made off with a pair of her favourite Sloggi’s. Brother Rat returned as I gazed out the kitchen window while re-loading the washing machine with our dropped clothes. He strolled across our back garden like a drunken sailor, looking decidedly unwell. I soon realised the rat had ingested poison. That would explain the nice man from the Council who’d called next door earlier in the week. I hesitated. Should I put the rat out of its misery or leave it twitching in our garden? I tried imagining what David Attenborough would do. As I thought, the wife acted. She strode out the kitchen door, picked up my shovel, clobbered the critter, and propelled it into next door’s rhododendrons in one swift, lethal movement. I gazed out the kitchen window in awe as she returned to the house. If losing one pair of knickers drove her to such merciless violence, how long could it be before I met Brother Rat’s fate? I slaked her blood lust with a well-timed Glengettie and French Fancy. H e r approving slurps and yum-yum noises calmed my mood. I feel safe. At least for now.
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Scouting groups special visitor during visit to County Hall
MEMBERS of Pembrokeshire’s Beavers, Cubs and Scout groups got the chance to meet decision makers at Pembrokeshire County Council as well as a special guest recently. A special event during UK Parliament
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Week was held at County Hall to focus on democracy and how it works with more than 35 young people and 15 Leaders attending. Questions were put to First Minister Mark Drakeford MS who
attended the event virtually and further discussion was had with Cabinet Members and Councillors, along with the Council Chairman and the Chief Executive. Supported by the Children and Young People’s Rights Office and their Democracy Champions training
resources there were a number of interesting questions posed throughout the evening. Council Chairman Cllr Thomas Tudor thanked everyone for their attendance, including the Leaders of the various associations. “It was an honour to Chair the meeting for
UK Parliament Week at County Hall where enthusiastic Explorers, Sea Scouts, Scouts, Beavers and Girl Guides were in attendance. “They had the opportunity to question First Minister Mark Drakeford via Teams as well as County Councillors, Town
Councillors, Officers and Cabinet Members on a range of issues. “The thought provoking questions were amazing which led on to very interesting debates, and I certainly learned a tremendous amount from this brilliant event,” said Cllr Tudor.
charities encouraged to safeguard donations and resources against fraud WITH Charity Fraud Awareness Week taking place between November 27 and December 1, Ansvar, a leading specialist insurer for the charity, not-for-profit and faith sectors, is raising awareness about how organisations across Pembrokeshire can be proactive to protect their assets, reputation, and beneficiaries. The week serves as a vital initiative to promote understanding about the serious issue of fraud within the charitable sector. From deceptive grant applications to cyber-attacks, and individuals posing as suppliers with ill intentions, fraudulent activities can severely impact resources and reputations. Sam Ward, Risk & Compliance Consultant at Ansvar, commented: “Charities and not-forprofit organisations play a crucial role in our society and must protect themselves against the nefarious tactics of fraudsters. Preventing
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charity fraud is not only about protecting financial assets but also maintains the crucial trust needed for the ongoing support of the public and donors. “Charity Fraud Awareness Week serves as a timely reminder to be vigilant and take proactive steps to preserve valuable resources. We are supporting the work it does to raise awareness and highlight good
practice. By providing practical information, we can help charitable organisations protect their assets and continue to make a difference.” Ansvar’s key strategies that charities and not-forprofit organisations can implement to help protect themselves against fraud are: Protect assets: Safeguarding physical cash and securing online transactions are paramount. Be aware of the risks in terms of financial transactions and
implement strong internal controls to mitigate those risks. Screen personnel: Ensure the right people are on board, from employees to suppliers. Implement comprehensive vetting procedures for staff and suppliers to identify potential risks. Train staff: Educate staff about the tell-tale signs of fraud, such as common spelling errors in communication, unusual communication tones, or unexpected urgent requests from unknown
sources. Regularly assess risks: Conduct risk assessments to identify vulnerable areas within an organisation. Knowing where potential risks lie allows charities to implement safeguards and allocate responsibilities appropriately. Multiple individuals should oversee high-risk areas, such as finances, to create a robust system of checks and balances. Ansvar’s online risk assessment guide for charities may help. Have adequate insurance: Having the right insurance is crucial. Ensure a policy covers the specific risks an organisation faces and be aware of any exclusions. Ansvar’s Sam Ward explains: “Your insurance broker will be able to help you find the right policy for your specific needs. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to seek their guidance.” Cyber-attacks are also a growing concern for charitable
organisations. The increasing sophistication of cyber threats makes it challenging to differentiate between legitimate and malicious communications, especially without proper training and processes in place. Charities must invest in cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and maintain the trust of their donors. Sam Ward underscores the importance of these measures: “Fraud, including cyber-attacks, is a very real threat. Charity Fraud Awareness Week is a reminder for charities to fortify their defences against deceptive activities, and we are encouraging charitable and not-forprofit organisations to take proactive measures to protect themselves. By implementing practical steps, charities can continue their invaluable work and ensure that funds entrusted to them are used for their intended purposes.”
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NEWS 19
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Birds’ Hill have completed an Employee Ownership buyout A S PEMBROKESHIRE approaches the winter months, we see many of our hospitality and tourism sector employees being laid off but normally with the expectation of being invited back as those businesses gear up for the spring season with school holidays and the Easter period specifically in mind. Coincidentally, many of our large retail outlets boost their number of employees in a Festive/Christmas season recruitment drive to cater for increased customer footfall during this time. Many of these new employees who are taken on for these short term contracts, especially the ones who work hard and impress the managers with their work ethic, have either been retained in a permanent role or kept on a waiting list for future offers of a permanent position. Thus, for those who would like to continue earning all year round, they should consider these opportunities as a means to do so in order to provide for themselves and their families as appropriate. The Pembrokeshire Jobcentres are displaying those festive jobs which have been gleaned from traditional job websites and company websites. During the period up to the New Year, Jobcentres are continuing to support the Bluestone Resorts recruitment drive for a growth of staff to cater
for their expansion programme. It is anticipated that this will continue as we move into the New Year. Jobseekers should use the Bluestone website and the Careers pages specifically to see the range of vacancies available. It is important to stress that, as with the careers pages of any business, it is important to carry out this search on a regular basis as the jobs being advertised change frequently. The Department for Work and Pensions has been very successful in recently advertising Civil Service jobs for Jobcentres and the Pembroke Dock Service Centre. Although these vacancies are currently closed, any jobseeker interested in becoming a civil servant in any of the national departments should look at Civil Service Jobs on the gov.uk website, again on a regular basis. The NHS is the biggest single employer in Wales and in the 3 Local Authorities in South West Wales covered by the Hywel Dda University Health Board, the DWP has teamed up with the Health Board HR Team to provide potential applicants with information sessions to help make the application to work in the NHS a success. This Health Board aims to attend in Jobcentres on a regular basis and also to attend any public jobs fair events. More information can be obtained from the nearest Jobcentre or Careers Wales office. Prior to the pandemic, the Pembrokeshire Local
Authority and the DWP teamed up to hold Jobs fairs to support the Care Sector; it is anticipated that 2024 might well be the ideal time to restart these and discussions are ongoing in order to achieve this. Fred Hatton of the Employer and Partnership Team stated – “as a result of the pandemic, the care of our residents in the community must be seen as a priority; provision of medical care, age care and wellbeing care can be enhanced by those who can work. By doing so, those who are successful in becoming employed will be providing financial support for themselves and their families as well as support for their own health and wellbeing”. Government statistics show that all our efforts are bearing fruit: Pembrokeshire has seen a drop in claimants to benefits by 6% since this time last year. For our county’s age 50+ benefit claimants, the unemployment figure is down by 14% in the same period. Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Mel Stride MP said: “We are leaving no stone unturned to help people into work, with a record number of employees on payrolls - up nearly 400,000 in the last year alone with 3.9 million more people in work than in 2010. With our ambitious welfare reforms, including the expansion of free childcare and extra support for people with health conditions, we are taking long term decisions that will grow the economy and change lives for the better.”
Birds’ Hill have completed an Employee Ownership buyout, which sees its staff become majority shareholders of the business. Birds’ Hill have been providing Renewable Energy Solutions across Wales and the Marches for nearly a decade, providing continual support and maintenance to hundreds of domestic and commercial clients. Originally established with a focus on biomass boilers and range
cookers, Birds’ Hill has developed its offering to include air source heat pumps, solar thermal, ground source heat pumps, and solar PV, taking customers through the complete service from design to installation, as well as ongoing servicing. Over the years the business has also developed strong, longlasting relationships with key suppliers such Firepower Heating, Bublshop, Klover, LG, Stoves & Solar, ETA, Frying, Innasol & The
Underfloor Heating Company The company has also built a high-quality team of experts who are passionate about the business and are eager to see it thrive. Nick Cater, Company Director of Bird’s Hill, said: “Establishing the Employee Ownership Trust will not only ensure the long-term sustainability of the business, but also ensure that we can continue providing the excellent service our customers expect from us, with our wonderful team now an integral part of operations.” The transaction will also lay the foundation for the next phase in the growth of Birds’ Hill, which will not only be a huge benefit to their customers but also to the dedicated team who know the business best.
Three Amigos and Dollies’ Annual Christmas Toy Run
THE THREE AMIGOS said they are delighted to share the heartwarming news that Ron Skinner has graciously extended his support by making a substantial donation of £400 for the upcoming 3 Amigos and Dollies annual Christmas toy run in 2023. In a display of true community spirit, Ron Skinner has not only opened his wallet but also his doors, as he has generously offered to serve as a drop-off point for additional contributions. If you find yourself passing by, we encourage you to step in and engage in a friendly chat with Ron
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Skinner. Feel free to leave your thoughtful donations with him, contributing to the joy that the 3 Amigos and Dollies aim to spread during the festive season. This year, Ron Skinner goes above and beyond, not only with his financial support but by lending a helping hand with the provision of a van for toy collections. Adding to the annual generosity of the Gravells van, this additional support ensures the smooth operation of our mission. The team said: “We
extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ron Skinner for his benevolence, which plays a crucial role in allowing us to persist in our efforts. Through these acts of kindness, we can continue delivering much-needed donations and unwavering support to children and families facing the challenges of illness and disability during what can be a particularly trying time of the year. Recognising that not every family experiences a joyous Christmas, the support provided by Ron Skinner helps us bring a glimmer of happiness to those who need it most.”
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NEWS 21
Young people see advantages of the Welsh language NEW research by Tom Sinclair the Welsh Language Editor@herald.email Commissioner shows that Welsh speakers and careers. between the ages of While the response 16-18 see the language was generally positive as beneficial for their about the ability to careers and that receive Welsh language opportunities to study education and the in Welsh are very provision available, important to them. there was a considerable The vast majority of difference depending on learners questioned the location of teaching. in schools and further The research highlights education colleges differences between also state that their school and college experience of Welshlearners, in terms of their medium or bilingual perception of their ability education is good or in the Welsh language, very good. the language medium of As part of the their education and their research, responses attitudes towards the were collected from over importance of the Welsh 1,000 young people with language. the intention of learning These results will about the views and therefore need to be experiences of postcarefully considered 16 learners in Welshwhen developing future medium or bilingual policies. education in schools and According to Welsh further education colleges Language Commissioner throughout Wales. The Efa Gruffudd Jones, the aim was to find out what results are generally their reasons were for positive, choosing Welsh-medium “This research, with education, their opinion a substantial number about the provision and of young learners their intention in terms responding, clearly of their future education
shows the importance of the Welsh language for learners in Wales. The vast majority are proud to be able to speak the language and note that opportunities to study through the medium of Welsh are important when choosing where to study, as well as opportunities to use the Welsh language as part of everyday life at school or college and with their friends. “However, further consideration needs to be given to learners’ reasons for not choosing to study subjects through the medium of Welsh and it is worrying to note the difference between the availability of courses through the medium of Welsh in our colleges compared to our schools. “The Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol is making substantial efforts to address the improvement of Welsh language provision in the further education colleges, but there is also a need to reinforce the key provision that exists in Welsh-medium and
bilingual schools.” The research shows that over 90% of those questioned are proud to be able to speak Welsh and over 80% feel that the Welsh language will help them secure jobs in the future. But the figure falls to just under 60% who feel confident that they will use the Welsh language in their careers. One of the respondents was Maddie Pritchard, a sixth form student at Ystalyfera comprehensive school and who is youth mayor in Neath Port Talbot Efa Gruffudd Jones: On a visit to Llangefni school council, “As a youth mayor I set the Welsh language language and respond what the role of Welshmedium and bilingual as one of my priorities as practically to that. “It’s great that our schools will be in planning I feel that the language is important to us as young voices as learners are future post-compulsory people, in terms of our heard and respected education. This should include everyday lives, at school and I hope we have the at a and in our communities. opportunity to contribute collaboration I am glad to see the to any similar work in the regional level between schools and further positive aspects that future.” The research education colleges to are highlighted in this research as it reflects indicates that it will be ensure that adequate what I experience day to necessary to carefully provision is available consider how to support in order to increase day. “But we need to and build on the provision the number of postaddress the reasons that is currently in place 16 learners in Welsheducation why some choose not to and to give consideration medium study through the Welsh on a national level as to throughout Wales.
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No RAAC reported in Carmarthenshire’s schools
CARMARTHENSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL says it is pleased to announce the successful completion of its extensive investigations into the presence of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) within schools. These comprehensive surveys covered premises constructed during the time period when RAAC was utilised and contained flat roofs.
After thorough examination, Carmarthenshire County Council can confirm that no traces of RAAC has been identified within any of our school settings. This result underscores our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students, teachers, and staff members. Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language, Cllr. Glynog Davies said: “We take the
safety of our educational facilities seriously, and these investigations were conducted with utmost diligence and care. “We are pleased to report that our schools are free from RAAC, providing peace of mind to parents, students, and the community at large and I would like to extend my thanks to council officers for their hard work and giving this important task their full attention.”
The Council’s rigorous approach to these investigations demonstrates its dedication to maintaining high standards of safety and integrity in all educational spaces. As always, the well-being of students remains a top priority for Carmarthenshire County Council, and these findings reinforce our commitment to providing a secure environment for learning.
‘Team Wales’ approach needed to deliver green energy transformation A “TEAM WALES” approach is needed to deliver the renewable energy advances promised by the Celtic Freeport, according to Tom Sawyer, CEO of Port of Milford Haven and Celtic Freeport executive member. The Celtic Freeport, due to be formally designated by the Welsh and UK Governments in spring/summer 2024, will build on the strengths of two of the UK’s leading ports, Milford Haven and Port Talbot, to create a green investment corridor. This will enable Wales to capitalise on renewable energy technologies and to position itself as a leader in the field. Sawyer is one of four speakers lined up to discuss renewable energy in the South West Wales region at the inaugural Green Economy Conference, which takes place in Swansea Arena on Tuesday November 22. The discussion, chaired by Abigail Beck, communications manager for RenewableUK Cymru, will also feature Arwyn Williams, Head of Faculty Engineering, Computing and Strategic lead for Higher Education, Pembrokeshire College; Joseph Kidd, cofounder of renewable energy developer Hiraeth Energy and a partner in sustainability consultancy Afallen; and Andrew Harston, strategic adviser, Wales & Short Sea Ports, ABP
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and Celtic Freeport executive member. A key topic of discussion will be the rollout of floating offshore wind, which is one of the key commitments of the Celtic Freeport, along with supporting 16,000 green jobs. “We need to adopt a Team Wales approach to get this over the line,” said Sawyer. “The conference will provide a focal point for supply chain businesses, education providers, energy developers and
politicians to coordinate efforts to accelerate our readiness for the floating offshore wind opportunity around the corner.” Harston added: “This is Wales’ opportunity to create a new green industry. Floating offshore wind will play a central role in our green future and is essential to ensure we hit net zero targets. The opportunity from floating offshore wind is huge for new port infrastructure, factories and jobs.” Williams will also be discussing offshore floating wind power, along with hydrogen developments, plus how
the existing hydrocarbon sector views the energy transition. “There are so many exciting and new opportunities emerging in the region, it is critical that these opportunities can be fully realised by the local communities,” he said. “This conference is an ideal platform for raising awareness and discussing the key topics. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to be involved and hope to further strengthen the region’s position in leading on the skills development in these areas.” Kidd’s sustainability consultancy Afallen is
working with Swansea Council on several decarbonisation initiatives and is at the forefront of delivering the Local Area Energy Plan for net zero across Wales. Kidd will be giving Afallen’s perspective in the panel discussion. He will also comment from the perspective of Hiraeth Energy, which is focussed on offshore wind development in the Celtic Sea. “I will be talking about how the Celtic Sea developments have the potential to deliver significant benefits to Wales if the right foundations are put in place,” he said. “The Green Economy Conference and Exhibition matters because it helps highlight a lot of the positive work being undertaken in the region. But perhaps more importantly it helps put a spotlight on the challenge that still faces us in getting to net zero, and ultimately trying to limit climate change.” The Green Economy Conference and Exhibition is free to attend, with tickets available online now. It aims to unite businesses, indivisuals and organisations from Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to share knowledge and create initiatives for a resilient future. The conference is run by 4theRegion, a membership alliance working to bring about
positive change in the region. It builds on the success of the annual Swansea Conference and Exhibition, which took place in March this year, and Swansea’s Green Recovery Conference, which was held by 4theRegion in June 2022. Zoe Antrobus, managing director of 4theRegion, said: “We’re delighted to be hosting this important panel discussion on renewable energy in our region. It will highlight the important work that is already underway in the sector, the challenges faced by those working to effect change, and how to overcome these. Our panellists will also discuss the exciting opportunities that are on the horizon. “Above all, the message is that when all the stakeholders pull together, transformation to a green economy is possible – and South West Wales can lead the way. The Green Economy Conference and Exhibition will help to make that happen. If you are a member of the public who wants to get involved, a business that wants to cut its carbon footprint, or an organisation working to make a greener South West Wales, this event is for you.” More information about the conference and booking links can be found here: https:// w w w. 4 t h e r e g i o n . o r g . uk/green-economyconference/
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NEWS 23
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Young farmers recognised for their community spirit
FISHGUARD Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) in Pembrokeshire has been recognised for its work supporting the local rural community at The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs’ (NFYFC) YFC Achiever Awards 2023, sponsored by Kärcher UK. Members of Fishguard YFC were presented with the Community Spirit Award, sponsored by Tama, by NFYFC President and former international rugby referee Nigel Owens MBE. The annual YFC Achiever Awards recognise the achievements of members and clubs during the previous membership year. This year’s event was held at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham on Friday 3 November. Fishguard YFC, which has 65 members and meets every Thursday at Mathry Village Hall, was rewarded for its impressive community efforts. The judges highlighted Fishguard YFC’s ‘Recycle & Reuse Sport Shoes Appeal’ which was developed in response to high child poverty rates in Pembrokeshire. The
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club donated 43 pairs of trainers to local primary schools and a rugby club, allowing families to participate in sports. As well as supporting local and seasonal events such as an Apple Fair and the Harvest Festival, they also introduced Hampers for Emergency Services and distributed gift bundles to local
care homes. There was also hands-on support for a local school and fire station when they helped with repairs and redecoration. Club Chair Cariann Griffiths said: “As a club we are overwhelmed and incredibly proud to have won the Community Spirit Award. “We truly value our community and fundraising work which was one of our club’s
priorities last year, therefore, to have it recognised at the highest level within the organisation is something really special. “It’s a great privilege to be rewarded for our hard work and we look forward to continuing our community and fundraising efforts. Diolch yn fawr.” The club’s efforts impressed the judging panel, which consisted
of Lizzie McLaughlin from the Becca and Lizzie podcast, Dan Corlett Rural Life Officer, Diocese of Coventry, and James Nixey, NFYFC’s Vice Chair. NFYFC President Nigel Owens said: “Young Farmers’ Clubs across England and Wales provide excellent opportunities for rural young people and it’s clear to see that our winners have grabbed
those opportunities with both hands. “They are using the skills and connections made in YFC to forge exciting businesses, to support their rural communities, to run efficient clubs and counties, and to mentor others to be their best. I feel very fortunate to have experienced YFC as a member of Llanarthne YFC in Wales, which also gave me skills and confidence that I have used throughout my life.” Tama is a proud sponsor of the Community Spirit Award 2023 and Warren Tatton, Tama UK Commercial Manager, said: “Working with NFYFC means a great deal to us. Tama, being farmer owned, understands what it takes to be a farmer and what it means to provide support and guidance to the next generation. “We congratulate Fishguard YFC on their achievement of gaining the Community Spirit Award and for all their hard work in supporting their local community.” The Community Spirit Award is one of eight award categories and all the winners were revealed during the YFC Achiever Awards event on 3 November 2023.
Successful weekend for Pembrokeshire Chess Players
Five players from Pembrokeshire entered the 54th West Wales chess congress on the weekend at Pontlliw. All acquitted themselves well and enjoyed the weekend’s chess. With just over 80 entrants in total,Pembrokeshire players won 2 of the 3 sections with Alexis Harakis Fide Master winning the prestigious Open section and Scott Hammett the Major Section both with 4.5/5 points. Young Yaroslav Sharhorodskyi (14) had 3.5/5 points and has a very bright future ahead of him. The club who play in Steynton are delighted that they have gained
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some young players recently and new members who are all progressing well and enjoying playing. Alexis is also a First Class coach involved in the Welsh Junior set up and and its great to see a Junior Tournament( Primary School age) being held at Redhill School on Saturday 2nd December with 35 children entered so far from 9 Pembrokeshire schools. Please see link below if interested in entering ,closing date 24th November. https://forms.office. com/e/9GSgBDuBWv
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NEWS 25
Pembrokeshire’s school children make pancakes children from across Pembrokeshire are invited to make pancakes by Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society on the County Showground in Haverfordwest to learn how the ingredients are produced locally. During the event, which will be suitable for all ages from year two to year 11 pupils, there will be arable and dairy farmers from all over the county on hand to demonstrate and explain the journey of the different crops, milk and eggs produced in Pembrokeshire. The event, sponsored by NFU Mutual, the CLA Charitable Trust and Women in Wales, will take place on 7 and 8 February 2024 on the Pembrokeshire County Showground. There will be machinery and animals at the event with farmers to explain what skills are required to produce food and care for the countryside. Kathy Wilson, a former teacher and now an
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Honorary Pembrokeshire Show Governor, is organising the event on behalf of the Society’s Food Story / Stori Bwyd. Kathy said, “One of the important elements of Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society’s work is educational and spreading the word around the county about how local food is produced. The response has been extremely positive to our previous Food Story events which have had barbecue and harvest themes. We hope local school children will learn a lot about where their food comes from when they attend this pancake themed event. We are very grateful to all the farmers and supporters who are volunteering their time to make this event happen. Please could we ask local schools to book their places as soon as possible.” During the event, which organisers
anticipate over 1,000 children will attend at allotted times, there will also be an opportunity to meet businesses from the local area, learn about health and well-being as well as how science, technology, engineering and mathematics are used to produce food locally. The event will also touch on how the weather and climate can affect the work farmers do and how the crops grow. Children will also get an opportunity to cook pancakes and enjoy tasting locally produced ice-cream with them. All primary and secondary schools across the county will be emailed inviting them to attend with a booking form to complete as there will be a choice between a morning and afternoon session. If teachers have not received the email but would like to attend the event could they please email the Pembrokeshire Showground Office: info@pembsshow.org
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What went wrong with Welsh rugby? The damning Rafferty Report, which paints a grotesque picture of the Welsh Rugby Union as a hive of misogyny, bullying and incompetence, has been welcomed by the author of a new book on the game in Wales in the professional era. It certainly didn’t come as a shock to Seimon Williams whose masterly Welsh Rugby: What Went Wrong? charts the tragicomic progress of the game in Wales from the end of the second Golden Era in the early 1980s. He said: “Sport Resolutions’ independent review, led by Dame Anne Rafferty, into the culture of the Welsh Rugby Union proves a dispiriting, if unsurprising, read. “It was ultimately triggered by a BBC Wales Investigates programme in which damning accusations were made against the WRU. It appeared to be an organisation riven by a culture of misogyny and sexism and homophobia and racism.” It confirms Williams’ own findings in his book which is a comprehensive telling of the wasted decades as he charts every tortured stumbling step of Wales’s journey into that hard-headed new world of professionalism. The book doesn’t make for cheerful reading but is a valuable addition to the findings of the report in which one WRU Director admitted: “The WRU Board was both frightened of what they had to do and unaware of what they had to do: If I ask the right question, I don’t know what to do with the answer. So, it’s much better not to ask the question”. Williams said: “An atmosphere of powerlessness and fear stalked the corridors for a not insignificant number of staff. The report finds that the WRU could be an unforgiving, even vindictive place. “When problems were identified, the WRU’s default approach appears to have been to issue NonDisclosure Agreements, and to therefore effectively
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sweep issues under the carpet. “It is the offhand, almost casual nature of the misogyny, in particular, that is so difficult to understand. Many instances are highlighted, including insinuations that a female member of staff had slept her way into a senior job, and of homophobic slurs directed at, particularly, women in same-sex relationships. “And it is clear that a culture of – utterly unwarranted – arrogance has gripped the WRU for years. “The treatment of Amanda Blanc – thenchair of the Professional Rugby Board and a sitting member of the WRU Board – beggars belief. In testimony which is reproduced in full the reader is treated to an astonishing litany of disrespect, of condescension and of ignorance.” Williams’ book was inspired by the events of early 2023, events which contributed to the establishment of the Rafferty Inquiry and it highlights many of the lowlights of the WRU’s dark journey through the years of professionalism. They include their use of an £84 million TV windfall to buy a hotel and build a zipwire attraction on the roof of the Millennium Stadium when Wales’ cashstrapped regions have been finding it increasingly hard to compete. While the WRU has now redirected some of the CVC money towards payments to the professional game, it is still cutting the cash paid out to its four struggling regions from £23.5 million to £18 million by next season when the four Irish provinces are receiving £50 million a year between them and the two Scottish pro sides share around £20 million. On the pitch a weekend of home matches against opposition from South Africa, Ireland and Scotland saw all four Welsh regions go down to defeat leaving
Welsh Rugby: What Went Wrong? by Seimon Williams is published by Y Lolfa on Monday, November 20, price £9.99.
the Ospreys tenth in the 16team league and Cardiff, Scarlets and the Dragons 13th, 14th and 15th. It was the first time since the formation of the current regional teams in 2003 that all four had lost at home on the same weekend. Williams said: “It was unfair to keep the money away from the regions at a time when the game in Wales is in such financial peril. “If the national team is getting smashed and the Welsh regions are getting smashed then the attractiveness of the product that is Welsh rugby is diminished. “For most of the last 25 years there has usually been at least one Welsh region that has been competitive at European level but we are miles off that now and with budget cuts the regions are going to be less and less competitive. “It’s difficult to see how that gets turned round. The WRU have just published accounts that show they turned over more than £100 million but every area of the game is struggling to survive. “They have now had to divert money back to the regions but it all seems too little too late.” It’s a subject that also infuriates the doyen of rugby writers, Stephen Jones, of The Sunday
Times, who has written the foreword to the book in which he says: “The triumph of Seimon Williams is that he has codified all the horror decisions, the useless administration, all the silly calls and selfinterest and codified it all into one authoritative, powerfully-researched book which deserves to become seen as the history of years in which Welsh rugby has always teetered on the edge of disaster.” Williams, a Welsh speaker from Waunarlwydd, who has spent much of his working life at Bangor University and is a longtime contributor to the rugby fansite Gwladrugby, certainly brings an academic rigour to his research but the book is not a dry and dusty research tome. The structure of the game in Wales has been a botched mess made more difficult by the comparative lack of cash and worsened by the short-sightedness and self-interest of administrators and club diehards. Williams tells how the Welsh representatives stormed out of a meeting with the top English clubs because they were only offered five places out of 20 in the two divisions of a planned Anglo-Welsh
League way back in 1999. That proved to be a massive misjudgement – Welsh rugby had strong and long-established links with the big English clubs, many of them just over the border in Gloucester, Bath and Bristol, and an Anglo-Welsh competition would have been a natural arena for them. Instead the Welsh regions stumble along in the wake of the Irish, the Scots and the South Africans in the United Rugby Championship with few if any fans making the long journeys to watch their sides getting thrashed in Pretoria or Johannesburg – or Dublin or Glasgow. Gatland has again woven his hard-nosed magic at international level, helped by a core of talented and committed players, but below that level life is far from rosy for the regions It is a story of wasted years, missed chances and vicious infighting as David Moffett, the Kiwi who was Chief Executive Officer of the Welsh Rugby Union, recalls. He said: “The Welsh are always at war with themselves. And you can see it now. It’s bizarre, because if they actually stopped to think, and said, ‘You know, we’re going to actually unite, as Welsh people,’ they’d
be special. But it’s never going to happen.” Intriguingly at least twice the idea of one of the four Welsh regions being based in North Wales has been proposed only to be swiftly booted into touch – it could have been similar to the way Ireland have nurtured the former rugby backwater of Connacht. The team from Ireland’s north-west, a region best known for hurling and Gaelic football, currently sit proudly at the top of the United Rugby Championship while Wales’s best, the Ospreys, are tenth. Seimon Williams clearly has a deep devotion to the game in Wales but he warns: “For Welsh rugby to survive, let alone thrive, it must break the unhealthy habit of 140 years and unite, at all levels. “The difficulties of the past year could amount to no more than a pause before Wales disappears as a serious rugby nation. Or it could be the springboard from which we reset and revive.” His book is a tremendous and thorough telling of Welsh rugby’s collision with the professionalising of the game, it is wonderfully thorough and he has spoken to very many influential and knowledgeable people.
News 27
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WRU slammed in scathing report AN INDEPENDENT review into allegations of a toxic and bullying culture in the WRU was published on Tuesday, November 14. Its findings are a scathing indictment of the WRU’s work and coaching environment, including findings of sexism, racism, homophobia and misogyny. BBC WALES DOCUMENTARY REVEALED UNPALATABLE TRUTHS A scandal regarding the Union’s conduct arose following a BBC Wales documentary in January. The documentary peeled back the layers of WRU incompetence, secrecy (including burying reports that criticised the WRU), and a series of cover-ups and scandals. The Union’s members exercised so much control over key decision-making that clubs repeatedly voted down attempts to professionalise the WRU’s operations to preserve their perks and privileges. The report’s authors found the WRU spent time and money managing complaints rather than addressing their root causes. The Union
used Non-Disclosure Agreements to stop complaints from coming into the public domain when it might have been compelled to deal with the culture producing them more comprehensively. The independent report found inappropriate sexist and homophobic language used towards female employees, which included the term “sugar tits” and a sexist attitude from the men’s performance staff towards the Wales women’s team, who were described as a “sore on the arse.” WRU IGNORED WARNINGS
The WRU could not have been surprised by the findings. When Amanda Blanc, the former chair of the Professional Rugby Board, quit in November 2021, she lambasted the Union’s Board for lack of professionalism, sexism, and failures to develop women’s rugby. In a letter and subsequent speech delivered when she left the PRB, Amanda Blanc, the CEO of Aviva (a FTSE 100 company) and one of the world’s most influential women in business, revealed she was asked if
WRU: The diseased heart of Welsh rugby she had enough business experience to contribute to the WRU Board’s decision-making. Ms Blanc described an instance when a WRU Board member made derogatory remarks about women’s involvement in rugby. Regarding punishment, his fellow board members thought reducing the number of complementary matchday tickets given to him was too harsh a penalty. She also observed that the WRU, a £100m business, was being run by amateurs without the skills or training to handle a large organisation. The WRU was in such chaos that it had failed to produce contracts for regional players or reach
an agreement with players’ representatives on the terms of their employment. The WRU’s abject mismanagement of the issue brought the Men’s national team to the brink of strike action before the Six Nations fixture against England. The documentary, the outcry following it and the threat of strike action by elite players focussed WRU member clubs’ minds. They voted through sweeping reforms to the WRU’s management structures in March. WRU APOLOGISES The WRU accepted the Review’s findings. New Welsh Rugby Union chair Richard
Collier-Keywood said: “I want to start by saying again that on behalf of the whole WRU, we are truly sorry to those impacted by the systems, structures and conduct described in the report, which are simply unacceptable. “We have to do better, and we will. “This report covers our governance, our culture, our approach to women’s and girl’s rugby and behaviours of leadership. It is a very difficult read for anyone who cares about rugby in Wales, particularly if you work at the WRU. There were many opportunities to avert the serious problems that were simply not taken. “We have a lot of work
to do to win back the trust of our colleagues, our players, the volunteers who are the heart of our community game, and the supporters that buy tickets week in and week out. “This report is really helpful in providing a path for some of what we need to do to earn back that trust.” Incoming WRU Group CEO Abi Tierney said: “The Independent Review’s report is incredibly humbling and describes issues, actions and attitudes that are hugely regrettable. They should not exist in our or any workplace. “Of course, as leaders of the organisation, we will all wholeheartedly condemn the attitudes and issues described, but we are equally aware that our response needs to be greater than this. “We will implement all of the Independent Review panel’s recommendations. My colleagues have committed to doing this, and I commit to doing this, too. “But we will also go deeper than this. We will take what the Review has found to heart and not only fix the issues identified but also build a culture and values we can all be proud of.”
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David Wilson’s Rust for Life
THIS week, celebrated local photographer David Wilson publishes a new collection of unique and original photography. The book invites you to explore rural Wales like never before in his latest photography collection. Peeling Paint and Rust is a visual testament to changes in society and habits of living as older
ways of Welsh life are left behind but retain their melancholic beauty. Known for his blackand-white photography that uniquely evokes the character and atmosphere of the nation’s landscapes, David Wilson’s new collection of colour shots captures the changing textures of manmade features: a oncethriving village shop, a
decaying Morris 1000, the corrugated iron for which Wales has a particular affection. The book includes a foreword by Salvage Hunters’ Drew Pritchard, celebrating the intricacy and the lasting character of David Wilson’s images. Drew Pritchard says: “The series of photographs which make up the following pages
may convince every reader of the necessity of preserving that which others may overlook.’ On bringing together the images for this book, David Wilson says: “I’ve been privileged to venture around Wales taking photographs for various black and white landscape book projects. “But on my travels,
I kept encountering the incredible colours and textures of peeling paint and rust. I’d be on my way to a location, and suddenly, I’d see a bright, flaking village shopfront – or a corrugated garage or tractor graveyard and be stopped in my tracks. “The colours were amazing, and I had to capture them – in colour! “Over nearly twenty
years, I accumulated a collection of images of this wonderful decay. One day, I realised that they hung together as a whole. “Together, they tell a story of rural Wales. The patina of weather-aged surfaces and rusting metal feel like works of art to me. I love looking at them, and I hope others do too.”
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Pembrokeshire caravan park expansion gets go-ahead Lichfields has secured planning approval for the multimillion-pound expansion of a Pembrokeshire caravan and leisure park, paving the way for dozens of jobs. Heritage Leisure Development (Wales) Ltd will bring forward the proposed development at Heritage Park in the village of Stepaside. The £6m scheme will include 48 holiday lodges, along with an equestrian centre, five-star leisure spa, café, and cycle hire facility. It aims to expand the local tourism offer while also “breathing new life” into a former pub, craft village and animal farm said to have been “abandoned and vacant for a number of years”. Heritage Park lies close to the seaside resort of Tenby as well as other local attractions and towns, including Saundersfoot.
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During the construction phase of the development, jobs will also be created. Full-time and part-time jobs will also be created once the park and other associated leisure facilities fully open for business. Construction is now expected to start next year. Helen Ashby-Ridgway, planning director at the Cardiff office of planning and development consultancy Lichfields, working on behalf of the owner and operator, said: “Our comprehensive approach to planning with carefully constructed arguments, has helped to secure success for this project. “There have been some tricky issues and tough challenges to overcome, but we now very look forward to supporting the operator’s
plans for the future and see his vision for the site become a reality.” of
Karl Watson, owner Heritage Leisure
Development, added: “We’re clearly delighted to have secured approval, which marks the next phase in ambitious proposals to provide
top quality hospitality and leisure facilities in south Pembrokeshire for holiday-makers and visitors. This project will also breathe new life into
a location that’s ready to be transformed, signalling a new chapter for the local area and creating opportunities and jobs for local people.”
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Making sense of Rwanda ON WEDNESDAY morning (November 15), the UK’s Supreme Court said deporting asylum-seekers to Rwanda was illegal. The Judges found that even genuine refugees, those at risk of serious harm if returned to their points of origin, were at risk under the deal. The Court highlighted evidence, which the Government did not contradict, that showed Rwanda had deported asylum seekers under a previous deal with the Israeli Government to another African country where they were at risk of what is called “refoulment”. In addition, the Court said the UK Government produced no evidence to refute other evidence showing the Rwandan Government routinely disregarded human rights. Importantly, and despite shrieking from right-wing loons on the Conservative backbenches, the Court found the Rwanda policy unlawful regardless of the European Convention on Human Rights. In other words, the policy was unlawful whether or not the ECHR bound the Government. The Court’s unanimous decision means a key plank of Westminster’s immigration policy is in ruins. The Government has spent £140m
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of taxpayer money pursuing a policy based more on appearance than substance, about which its own lawyers expressed serious reservations. Increasing the severity of border restrictions does not reduce net migration. Contrariwise, they encourage migration to increase ahead of new restrictions coming into force. In 2022, when the Government - under Boris Johnson and Priti Patel - first advanced the Rwanda plan, the UK experienced recordhigh net migration of 606,000, while Channel crossings increased almost five-fold. While the Government blew £140m of public
money on a policy little more than a PR stunt, by August 2023, 175,000 people were still waiting for an initial asylum decision. The delays are so severe that some asylum seekers can now seek work in the UK while their claims are decided. Dealing with the backlog of claims rather than chasing blaring headlines in the Daily Mail and the approval of BluKip voters would probably have been a better use of scarce public resources. Without legal migration channels, border controls only increase migrants’ dependence on smugglers. The lack of legal migration channels to the UK is not a problem the Conservatives created. The Labour Government, under
Tony Blair, undertook a massive cut to legal migration routes into the UK that effectively forced refugees into the hands of people smugglers. It did so under pressure from the populist tabloid press upon whom Blair relied for support. The result was predictable. Net migration steadily rose until - post-Brexit and with the UK sabrerattling about tighter controls - the tide of incoming migrants and asylum-seekers became a flood. D e p o r t i n g asylum seekers to a warmongering dictatorship that employs death squads and engages in extrajudicial harassment of asylum-seekers in other countries (including, as the Court found, the UK), was always folly. Even if the Court had
ruled the Rwanda policy was lawful, the practical obstacles to bringing it into force were massive. The Court of Appeal decision from almost twelve months ago shows why that is the case. The Court reviewed eight cases. The decision to send the asylum seekers concerned was quashed in each of them. The Court of Appeal press release said: “The Home Secretary has not properly considered the circumstances of the eight individual claimants whose cases we have considered. For that reason, the decisions in those cases will be set aside, and their cases will be referred back to the Home Secretary for her to consider afresh.” And in some cases, the Home Secretary had already conceded some of the claims before the High Court were wrongly decided. In one of those cases, an interpreter engaged by the UK Government did not speak the asylum seeker’s language. In a second case, a doctor engaged by the Home Office found evidence of torture on an asylum seeker who claimed to have been the subject of human trafficking. The Home Office failed to consider that evidence and made a complete hash of its procedures. Three further cases engaged protection
under the Modern Slavery Act. In every case before the Court of Appeal, the failures were multiple and, in several instances, so gross that the judges scorched the ground underneath the Government’s position. Making the legal position enforceable by treaty, which new Home Secretary James Cleverley proposes, will not get the Government over the bar it has failed to reach regarding the treatment of asylumseekers. There won’t be flights to Rwanda this year, next year, and certainly not after the next General Election. The Conservative Government will continue to push the policy because it has no Plan B. It will also push it to appeal to the migranthating right and silence discontent from the fringes of its own Party. The last of those is a forlorn hope. Giving way to fringe voices on the Conservatives’ right wing produced this failure and is responsible for many of the Government’s woes over the last decade. With Suella Braverman and the Dementors wedged on the Conservative backbenches, there is only more hassle ahead for Rishi Sunak as the Party’s right abandons rationality and heads for the clear blue waters of obscurity
Pembrokeshire Classic Car Club benefits charities by £9500 PEMBROKESHIRE CLASSIC CAR CLUB recently held their presentation night at Haverfordwest Cricket Club. Where charities benefitted from donations totalling £9500.The money was raised at the clubs successful Annual Show held at Carew Airfield in June of this year. The following charities received £3000 each,
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The Paul Sartori Foundation, Wales Air Ambulance and Pembrokeshire Care, Share & Give. These charities being chosen by club members for the year. A donation of £500 was also given to Carew Control tower for their help and support on the day.
The club would like to thank Carew Airfield Business Park staff, for the show field and parking areas, Carew Control Tower, local businesses, St John Ambulance, stallholders, club members, Paul Sartori volunteers, entrants & everyone else who contributed to the successful show.
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Pembroke South Quay second phase approved by just one vote PLANS for a community hub and associated works, part of the second phase of Pembroke’s South Quay Regeneration Scheme, were given the go-ahead by just one casting vote, despite “unanimous” local objection. Members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, at their November 7 meeting, were recommended to approve an application by the local authority for the erection of a community hub with associated infrastructure works. Led by Pembrokeshire County Council, the South Quay project, below Pembroke Castle, includes the refurbishment of the Grade II-listed 7 Northgate Street; demolition of the existing public toilets; construction of a four-storey ‘L-shape’ extension building, a three-storey frontage to South Quay and the extension of a public space and reconfiguration within the car park. The community hub
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would provide a service for older people, learning and skills areas to support independent living, and continued education for people with disability, and supported employment opportunities. Pembroke Town Council, Pembroke Castle Trust, Pembroke and Monkton Local History Society, and local resident Richard Naylor all objected to the proposal, saying it would
be an overdevelopment of the conservation area which would not preserve its character, and would tower over neighbouring buildings such as the nearby Royal George hotel. At the November meeting, Pembroke town councillor Linda Asman said it “strongly objected” to the application at the “sensitive heritage sire”, describing it as an “unsympathetic development,” near the Grade I-listed castle, with the social hub better sited elsewhere.
Cllr Asman said town council hopes the development would be used to boost tourism were being “completely ignored,” with what was presented a “fait accompli”. Peter Thomas, chair of Pembroke Civic Trust, also objected to the scheme, describing it as “a very modern development not in keeping with its surroundings,” which would dwarf the neighbouring historic Royal George Hotel, and would be “clearly visible
from the castle ramparts”. He said a better location for a social services hub would be the nearby Riverside site, adding: “It is surely part of your remit to protect our heritage”. Councillor Jonathan Grimes, one of two local members representing the ward, said there was “unanimous objection” locally to the plans, which would have “a lasting and profound impact on the town”. Councillor Brian Hall, of neighbouring Pembroke Dock,
reluctantly moved approval of the application but expressed concern at what he saw as a lack of local consultation. After mentioning a previous scheme proposed for the area some 35 years beforehand which didn’t reach fruition, he said: “If we do refuse this today it’s going to be something that drags on; at the moment it’s a mess, but there could’ve been a far better proposal.” Councillor Mark Carter said he would vote against the application, citing the concerns of local objectors, a view shared by Councillor John Cole, who said the scheme should “go back to the drawing board,” rather than an outright refusal. Members were told by officers the scheme, as a major application, had been consulted. After a lengthy debate, six councillors voted in favour of the scheme, and six against, committee chair Cllr Jacob Williams voting again, in favour of conditional approval of the application.
Craft market on site of deer farm near Tenby backed again A SCHEME to create an indoor craft market/ traders barn on the site of a deer farm attraction will be decided by full council after it was backed by planners a second time. Mr and Mrs Evans of Great Wedlock, Gumfreston, near Tenby sought a change of use of a former agricultural barn to the trading barn for up to 35 traders selling local produce and crafts, operating up to 61 days a year. The plans – recommended for refusal at the November 7 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee – also included an additional 30 parking bays on the site of a former silage clamp. The plans had been given a ‘minded to’ backing by committee members at their October
Bruce Sinclair
Local Democracy Reporter
meeting, meaning it had to return to the November meeting as the decision went against officer recommendations for refusal. Reasons for refusal given by officers included the potential for negative
impacts on the existing provision of local shops in nearby rural settlements. A previous application for the trading barn was refused by county planners on the basis it would represent an “unjustified use in a countryside location and contains insufficient information in respect of sustainable travel
options” and the lack of a detailed Retail Impact Assessment (RIA), which has been incorporated in the resubmitted application, at a cost of £10,000 to applicant Andrew Evans. At the November meeting, Mr Evans said the scheme would not sell any food, but would be a showcase for the
“high quality arts and crafts market,” with many interested parties contacting him since the last meeting. He said the trading barn would allow start-up businesses free space at first “to enable them to get a foothold on the business ladder,” with the intention of different crafts makers showcasing their products each week, and was about “bringing this exciting opportunity to the people of Pembrokeshire.” Moving the application be supported, local member councillor Rhys Jordan said there was “no objection whatsoever from the people of the local community”. Urging members to support the application, he said there had been “some 400-500 positive comments” on the scheme since local press
coverage of the previous meeting. He was backed by Councillor Brian Hall, who said there were a long list of conditions recommended by officers if the scheme was approved. Members heard the retail impact assessment had calculated a one per cent impact on the economy of Tenby during those 61 days the trading barn was operating. Cllr Jordan said: “While I understand there’s a one per cent impact, not one business has raised an issue, they fully support this application; I don’t think we should be hung up on one per cent.” The application was backed by 13 votes to one, and will now return to a full council meeting for a final decision.
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Friday November 17th 2023
A Tory tale of two jobs: From sheds to success SQUAWK! Listen up, folks! So, Jake Berry, that former Tory Chairman, told people to flutter out and snag a new job. The press pecked at him, saying he didn’t know his worms from his fish about job opportunities. But oh, how the tides have turned Let’s squawk about David Cameron, once perched high, now reduced to a shed-bound life, pecking away at his memoirs. Picture him, feathers ruffled, in Chinos and a football jersey, searching for synonyms for ‘bastards’. ‘Squawk, what time’s Countdown, Sam?’ But Cameron’s not one to peck around. Borrowing a bike, he set off to earn his worms in Sunak’s Britain. Standing at the M40 roundabout with a ‘Will Look Sensible For Money’ sign, he showed the young chicks how it’s done. And squawk! Look what happens when you flap your wings! Seconds after uploading his CV, a tech startup chirped his way. ‘Tech-based
reputation salvage’ they squawked. Is that Rishi, hiding in the reeds? Next time a gloomy gull squawks doom about Britain, point to Dave and squawk about opportunity - from Foreign Secretary to a peer of the Realm faster than you can
snatch a fish! Squawk! Now, about Cameron being the Tories’ haircut. After Brexit’s stormy winds, they want to preen their feathers and look sensible again. But choosing Cameron? That’s like a seagull
choosing a diet. His austerity nest and Brexit blunders are like yesterday’s chips - stale and unappetizing. As Sunak tries to steer the Tory flock back to calmer waters, his party’s squawks over immigration are like an
off-key bird chorus. ‘Ding dong merrily…’ ‘Sunak’s betrayed my squawks about immigration!’ ‘…on high.’ Imagine those Tory gulls, hiding their unsavory squawks, then hearing a cabinet
minister echo them! Squawk! Suella Braverman’s looming resignation won’t be an apologetic coo. For her supporters, she’s a queen in exile. And Liz Truss? Fuming like a gull denied a chip. Sunak’s olive branch to the right? Esther McVey with her ‘common sense’ portfolio. Squawk! ‘Wokefinders General’ and now this? Guess what’s getting the blame for our empty nests this Christmas? So, Sunak lets Braverman go - a late but needed molt. But don’t preen your feathers yet. He perched on the fence, waiting to see the flock’s direction before deciding his flight path. If the marches had chirped as Braverman predicted, we might be squawking about Nigel Farage instead of Cameron. So there you have it, my fellow gulls. Squawk! The Tory tale of sheds, success, and sensibility. Keep your beaks sharp and your eyes on the skies. Over and out, squawk!”
Friday November 17th 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk
FEATURE 33 For up to date news please check our social network channels
Competition that calls for global innovations RWE, a global leader in offshore wind energy, has officially opened entries for its inaugural “Floating Wind Co-use Competition”, targeting innovators worldwide. The company aims to harness creative solutions that champion both biodiversity enhancement and harmonious coexistence with other maritime activities. Central to this competition is RWE’s commitment to foster sustainable and inventive approaches tailored for floating offshore
wind projects. RWE has achieved groundbreaking and innovative milestones like the installation of the first-ever recyclable rotor blades and the establishment of ‘green’ fuel operation vessels. The firm is also delving into the potential of artificial reefs to boost marine biodiversity. Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind, remarked, “Sustainability and biodiversity are not mere buzzwords for us; they’re embedded in every phase of our wind farm projects. We’re urging innovators to
bring forth technology and ideas that can augment our efforts to establish offshore wind farms that genuinely benefit the marine ecosystem.” The competition welcomes entries from a diverse range of participants, from startups and research entities to individual inventors. RWE’s emphasis lies in nurturing innovations that not only reduce environmental impacts on marine life but also positively transform the marine ecosystem, aiding local marine stakeholders and particularly
supporting fisheries. Champions of this competition stand to gain invaluable insights by collaborating with RWE’s experts, translating their concepts into real-world applications for floating offshore wind farms in regions spanning Europe, Asia, and America. Moreover, the winners will receive a monetary research grant to refine and amplify their inspirational ideas. In the global arena, RWE is setting the gold standard by steering efforts toward affordable, commercial-scale floating
wind solutions. With landmark demonstration projects already underway in Spain and Norway, RWE’s influence is palpable. The company is poised to make waves in the upcoming UK Round 5 Seabed Lease auction for floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, foreseen as a lucrative opportunity for the broader Celtic Sea region and the UK. Danielle Lane, RWE’s Director of Offshore Wind Development for UK and Ireland, highlighted the competition’s broader vision, stating, “Floating wind development in
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ENTER THE COMPETITION CLICK HERE
the Celtic Sea isn’t just about energy; it’s about fuelling economic growth, fostering innovation, and nurturing local communities. Our competition is designed to place innovation and biodiversity at the epicentre of our projects.” Competition entrants have until the stroke of midnight (CEST) on 31st December 2023 to present their transformative ideas. For comprehensive details and to submit entries, visit www.rwe.com/floatingwind-competition
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Vikings triumph in historic Principality Stadium debut
In a thrilling clash at the Principality Stadium, the Pembrokeshire Vikings made history on Sunday as they emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle against the Newport Dragons. The clash marked the
first time in the team’s history that they graced the hallowed grounds of the Principality Stadium, and the occasion did not disappoint as the Vikings secured a nail-biting 2220 win. The Pembrokeshire Vikings showcased their mettle in the ‘Road to
Principality’ encounter, dazzling spectators with a display of skill, determination, and strategic prowess. Despite facing a formidable opponent in the Newport Dragons, the Vikings managed to secure four tries, ultimately securing their
triumph. The try scorers for the Vikings included Graham Jenkins, Gethin Bateman, Ryan Foot, and Simon Radford, with the pivotal conversion that sealed the win executed by the precision of Matt Heeps. The principality crowd was treated to a spectacle as both teams engaged in a fierce battle, with the Vikings overcoming an initial surge from the Dragons to stage a remarkable comeback. Despite the Dragons taking control in the early stages of the game, the Vikings demonstrated remarkable tenacity, orchestrating a comeback that saw them secure a well-deserved win. The Dragons, on the other hand, fell just short in their pursuit of victory, missing the final
conversion that could have resulted in a draw. Man of the Match honours were bestowed upon Alex Frearson, whose standout performance undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the Vikings’ triumph. His contributions on the field exemplified the teamwork and dedication that define the spirit of Pembrokeshire rugby. This landmark victory
for the Pembrokeshire Vikings not only marks a significant milestone in the team’s history but also underscores the growing prominence of mixed ability rugby in the region. As they bask in the glory of their triumph at the Principality Stadium, the Vikings look set to inspire a new generation of rugby enthusiasts in Pembrokeshire and beyond.
Friday November 17th 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk
TV GUIDE FEATURE For up to date news please check our social network channels
ST DAVIDS Pics by Philip Walker
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HAVERFORDWEST Pics by AP Oostermeijer
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FEATURE 37 TV GUIDE
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MILFORD HAVEN
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FISHGUARD Pics by Fishguard Sea Cadets
TENBY Pics Gareth Davies
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Tony Christie announces Pembrokeshire date
WHAT’S ON
UPPER MARKET ST, HAVERFORDWEST,
Iconic crooner Tony Christie has announced he will be bringing his critically acclaimed theatre show ‘A Life of Music’ to Pembrokeshire next summer as part of his 2024 UK tour. The 80year concert celebration will stop at The Boulevard Theatre in Milford Haven on 14th June 2024 for a special intimate performance. Known for timeless hits like “(Is This the Way To) Amarillo”, “I Did What I Did for Maria”, and“Avenues and Alleyways”, Tony
Christie has entertained millions of fans across a career spanning over 50 years and shows no signs of stopping! The 2024 tour promises an up close and personal evening featuring his greatest songs along with stories and anecdotes from his life and cataloguealong with the Tony Christie band. The Pembrokeshire performance will feature premium VIP ticket options including a special pre-showmeet and greet with Tony and a commemorative tour
goodie bag. VIP guests will also receivereserved front row table seating. Tony Christie said: “I’m thrilled to be coming to the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast as part of my 2024 tour. It will be a pleasure to perform in such an intimate theatre setting and share some of my best- loved songs and memories with the local crowds.” Tickets are on sale now at www.boulevardtheatre.com. Don’t miss the crooning legend live in Milford Haven next June!
Unforgettable musical fusion at The Druidstone Join us for an unforgettable evening with Campbell Jensen at The Druidstone on Thursday, November 23, from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM GMT. Experience the captivating musical fusion of Ashley Campbell and Thor Jensen, collectively known as Campbell/ Jensen. Their distinctive blend of country, Americana, rock, and gypsy jazz creates a truly unique and enchanting sound. This dynamic duo, formed in late 2021, brings together Ashley’s rich musical heritage as the daughter of country legend Glen Campbell and Thor’s versatile background as a virtuoso guitarist from New York. As strong instrumentalists, Ashley’s banjo expertise and
Thor’s deep baritone vocals contribute to the duo’s one-of-akind musical synergy. Having played together around the world, their chemistry shines through, captivating audiences with each performance. Notably, the duo recorded their debut album at Turtle Cottage, located on an island north of Northern Ireland, where they immersed themselves in the creative process. The album is set to release in 2023, promising a collection of
original compositions that showcase the depth and breadth of their musical artistry. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness Campbell Jensen’s musical magic at The Druidstone Hotel in Pembrokeshire. For tickets and further details, visit the event on Eventbrite. Join us for a night of exceptional music and a celebration of the harmonious collaboration between two extraordinary talents.
Friday November 17th 2023 www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk
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CALLING ALL TECHNO WIZARDS TO THE TORCH! Are you a fan of game shows? Do you have that competitive streak? Are you a dab hand with your smartphone or tablet? Then look no further than WiFi Wars at the Torch Theatre this January. Yes, we are already thinking about the New Year and introducing you to our 2024 performances, and Wifi Wars is one not to be missed as it returns with a live comedy game show where everyone can all play along! Hosted by comedian Steve McNeil (team captain on UK TV’s hit comedy/gaming show “Dara O’Briain’s Go 8 Bit”) and aided by Guinness WorldRecord-Breaking
tech whizz, the award-winning Rob Sedgebeer, Wifi Wars invites audience members to log in with their smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes! Wifi Wars is so very popular that you can attend not one, but two shows at the Torch and there’ll be entirely different games and quizzes at each show so you can attend both on Saturday 6 January at 2pm and 7pm! Described by The Guardian as a show “Not To Be Missed” and appearing as Critic’s Choice by Time Out and featuring on the Hot List of the
Times, this interactive show offers something different in a theatre setting. It has even made the Top Ten London Geek Nights out by the Metro. Recommended for ages 6+ (matinee show), 12+ (evening show) Wifi Wars will appeal to all. Ticket prices for Wifi Wars on Saturday 6 January at 2pm and 7pm are Family: £50, Full: £15 and Under 26; £13.50. Tickets can be purchased from the Box Office at the Torch Theatre on 01646 695267 or torchtheatre. co.uk.
WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
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Friday November 17th 2023
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‘Im a Celeb 2023’ returns this Sunday evening!
The eagerly awaited 21st series of the jungle adventure reality show, I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!, is ready to hit screens on Sunday, November 19, with a star-studded lineup featuring an eclectic mix of personalities. As the celebrities prepare to leave the comforts of their everyday lives behind and venture into the Australian wilderness for up to three weeks, viewers are in for a treat with a diverse cast that spans the realms of music, acting, television, and social media.
Jamie Lynn Spears:
At the forefront of this year’s lineup is Jamie Lynn Spears, an accomplished actress and singer renowned for her roles in Zoey 101 and Sweet Magnolias. The younger sister of global pop icon Britney Spears, Jamie Lynn admits to having fears but is determined to overcome them in the jungle. “I am absolutely frightened of everything,” confesses Jamie Lynn, adding that her ability to not let anything hurt her feelings will be her secret weapon against the jungle’s challenges. The actress, fresh from a stint on Dancing with the Stars in the US, sees this as an opportunity to showcase her true self, stating, “There is literally every misconception you can have on a person about me, so I don’t take any of it seriously.”
Sam Thompson:
Reality TV star and radio show host Sam Thompson, known for his appearances on Made in Chelsea, expresses both excitement and trepidation about participating in I’m A Celebrity. Admitting that sleeping outdoors is a concern after a trial camping trip, Thompson considers himself a huge fan of the show and is thrilled to meet hosts Ant and Dec, whom he regards as his idols. “I feel like a competition winner taking part,” he says with enthusiasm, underscoring the surreal nature of the opportunity.
Josie Gibson:
Adding a touch of warmth to the lineup is Josie Gibson, the host of ITV’s This Morning. Describing herself as ‘motherly,’ Gibson is looking forward to connecting with fellow celebrities and relishes the prospect of engaging in meaningful conversations. “I love it when people sit and tell stories, and I hope people won’t think I am too nosey,” she remarks, highlighting her eagerness to explore diverse narratives.
Fred Sirieix:
Renowned for his role on First Dates, TV presenter Fred Sirieix has undergone an intensive fitness training programme to face the challenges of the jungle. Fearful of the unknown, Sirieix embraces the opportunity to step out of his comfort zone, stating,
“It’s good to do things that take you out of your comfort zone. I have been training harder than I have trained in the last three or four years.”
for her candid reviews, pledges to rate the jungle cuisine and is prepared to share her experiences in her future columns.
Nella Rose:
JLS singer Marvin Humes embarks on the jungle adventure, confronting a fear that surpasses performing on stage in front of thousands of fans – a fear of heights. His decision to participate shocks his bandmates, who are yet to discover the surprising revelation.
Social media sensation Nella Rose, a YouTuber with over 750k subscribers, promises to keep morale high in the camp. Her plan? Running a Zumba class every morning. “I don’t like confrontation, though, and I don’t argue with people as it doesn’t go anywhere,” she affirms, bringing a positive and drama-free energy to the jungle.
Nigel Farage:
The controversial former politician and GB News host, Nigel Farage, is set to bring his unique charisma to the jungle. Known for his outspoken views, Farage believes he can survive the challenges because he is “used to dealing with snakes and other horrible reptiles” in both Brussels and Westminster. Despite expecting to be voted for numerous trials, Farage sees this as a mental test to discover more about himself.
Grace Dent:
MasterChef UK alumna and newspaper food critic Grace Dent faces a daunting prospect in the camp diet. “Everything is filling me with a real sense of dread,” she admits, particularly fearing the eating trials. Dent, known
Marvin Humes:
Danielle Harold and Nick Pickard:
EastEnders actor Danielle Harold and Hollyoaks’ longest-serving actor Nick Pickard bring the drama from the small screen to the jungle. Harold, terrified of rats, sees this as an opportunity to reveal her true self beyond her BBC character. Meanwhile, Pickard clarifies that his stint on I’m A Celebrity does not signal the end of his time on Hollyoaks. As the countdown begins to the first episode, viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, camaraderie, and unexpected challenges as these diverse celebrities navigate the trials and tribulations of the Australian jungle. Hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly stand ready to welcome the stars, promising a season filled with surprises, laughter, and perhaps a few tears in the wilderness Down Under.
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GAMING 45 For up to date news please check our social network channels
watch the trai ler here
HOROSCOPES The Lucky Signs This Week: Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius
ARIES If you have faith in your abilities, you’ll have what it takes to be promoted to a higher position. It’s time to up the ante on your social life. You’ll be asked to organize several outings and activities with friends. TAURUS You’ll be very popular this week. Your colleagues will pay more attention to what you have to say and applaud you for your actions. At home, you may need to declutter your home to clear your mind.
GAMING With eddie the game guru
Oi, listen up, mates! Get ready for a right proper game-changer, ‘cause Tekken 8 is set to hit the decks on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S come the 26th of January, 2024! And would you believe it? You can snag your copy by pre-ordering the beast tonight. Now, rewind the clock a bit, innit? It’s been a bleedin’ long eight years since Tekken 7 strutted its stuff in arcades ‘round the globe. Took another two years ‘til it graced our consoles. But ‘old onto your knickers, ‘cause the wait’s over! Bandai Namco’s been cooking up some proper magic during this hiatus, tossing in new characters through DLC and whipping up the spectacle we’ve all been gagging for – Tekken 8. Imagine this: it’s not just your run-of-the-mill sequel. This is the first Tekken game tailor-made for the powerhouse duo of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, and it’s flexing its muscles with Unreal Engine 5. We’re talking about a visual feast – dazzling lighting, intricate stages, character models so detailed you can practically count their nose hairs, and particle
effects that’ll make your eyeballs do a happy dance. But it’s not just about the looks; Tekken 8 is here to shake things up. Katsuhiro Harada, the maestro behind the scenes, spilled the beans on the creative process. With the monumental success of Tekken 7, the team faced a dilemma: how do you innovate when everyone’s already grooving to the Tekken 7 beat? It’s like trying to juggle flaming torches on a tightrope! So, they dived deep into the pool of aggression, urging players to ditch the defence and go all-out berserker mode. They’ve amped up the classic mechanics and introduced the Rage system – a cinematic “break-glass-in-case-ofemergency” move when your health is hanging by a thread. But hold your horses, there’s more! The brand-new Heat system cranks up the intensity. Go all blue and glowy, and your attacks become as lethal as a dragon’s breath. And you can’t just sit there looking pretty; you gotta keep the heat alive by unleashing your fury on your opponent. And here’s a little
surprise – the health bar now has a recoverable gauge, giving you a chance to bounce back from the brink. But let me tell you, this ain’t a game for the faint-hearted turtlers. Bandai Namco wants you to earn that health back with a barrage of unrelenting offence. Now, let’s talk control, baby! Tekken 8 is breaking the mould with not one, but two control schemes. Arcade Style for the seasoned warriors, keeping it classic. But wait, there’s more! Special Style for the casual players – toggle it on and off at will. It’s like having a secret weapon for pulling off killer combos without breaking a sweat. It’s the gateway drug to Tekken greatness, my friends. I’ve had a taste of Tekken 8, and let me tell you, it’s like riding a lightning bolt. The fights are smooth, the styles are diverse – from the nimble Law to the brutes like Paul and Jack-8. The Rage system is your trump card, but I won’t lie, I wish they’d spice up the cinematics a bit. And oh, the strategy of waiting for the perfect moment to unleash Heat? Pure genius. I mostly stuck with
the Arcade Style – call me old-school, but that’s how I roll. Special Style, though? It’s a gamechanger for the rookies. I’ve seen it turn the tide, and it’s a force to be reckoned with. But mark my words, it won’t save you from the pros. You gotta earn your stripes, my friends. Now, let’s talk about the future, the juicy stuff – the modes and offerings. Harada’s got that mischievous twinkle in his eye when he talks about the surprises they’ve got cooking. Tekken’s always been the trendsetter, from Tekken Ball to Tekken Bowl, and don’t even get me started on those story modes. Tekken 8’s got something up its sleeve, and we’re just gonna have to hold our breaths till the big reveal. So, gear up, warriors, because Tekken 8 is on the horizon, and it’s bringing the thunder. The wait might be a tad longer, but trust me, this AAA 3D fighting juggernaut ain’t slowing down. When it finally drops, it’s gonna be a symphony of punches and kicks, echoing across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Get ready to dance in the chaos, my friends!
GEMINI You may have to travel for work or to take care of your health or that of a loved one. If you’re engaging in a debate, make sure you have accurate and relevant arguments before defending your point of view. CANCER You’ll finally be able to secure your financial future, which will take considerable weight off your shoulders. You could also consider starting a personal project for your retirement years. LEO Set a specific objective and put it into practice to be promoted at work. This opportunity will give you a fresh start, and many people will support you in achieving it. VIRGO Think before you act. If you’re considering a career change, you’ll find the right direction for your brilliant future. Lean on the people close to you to help you make the right decisions. LIBRA After a stressful period, it’s it a good idea to rest and recharge your batteries. Participate in calming activities to regain your strength. A family member may need your help during a difficult situation. SCORPIO You’ll be able to extend your relationships via social media. You may forge pleasant new friendships in your professional sphere. If you’re single, you may even find love at work. SAGITTARIUS Think about going back to school. At work, you’ll have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and make some good business deals. In romance, a short trip could rekindle the flame in your relationship. CAPRICORN If you’re in a cross-cultural relationship, be willing to adapt and compromise. Avoid abruptness. Sharing household tasks more equitably will be appreciated. AQUARIUS Intense emotions will inspire your creativity and bring out your artistic side. With your skill for detail and elegance, you’ll have the courage to stand out from the crowd. PISCES You must negotiate carefully to achieve satisfactory professional results. You have nothing to worry about in your love life. Your significant other will propose.
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Spotlight on Best Pet Competition sponsors
We have had a fantastic response so far for our Pet Competition, thank you to all our entries so far. We are loving watching videos and looking at pictures of your beloved pets and hearing what makes them the best! There is still time to enter, and there are some amazing prizes to be won, kindly sponsored by Cys Ci Luxury Dog Retreat, Tidy Dog Grooming and Spa Ltd Haverfordwest & The Pembrokeshire Pet Bakery. Pictures and videos will be available on our website from the 10th of December, so our readers and followers can vote for their favourite. Send an email to jess@ herald.email to enter your little darling - applications accepted up until the 1st of December! Cys Ci Luxury Dog Retreat Cys Ci Luxury Dog Retreat believes in replicating the comforts of home for every canine guest. As
passionate dog owners, they recognize each pet’s unique needs, ensuring tailored experiences from dietary to emotional care. At Cys Ci, dogs aren’t just guests – they’re family. Ensuring companionship and engagement, their attentive staff offer multiple daily walks, enriching activities with toys like KONGs and Lickimats, and stimulating scent games. Socialization and playtime are at the heart of their philosophy, because a contented dog makes for a delighted owner. Nestled amidst 30 acres of beautiful Ceredigion countryside, their retreat boasts both security and serenity, just moments away from stunning beaches like Penbryn and Tresaith. Our 4-acre enclosed exercise fields cater to every dog temperament, whether they’re outgoing or more reserved. Additional amenities include an all-weather Astroturf shelter and convenient
wash facilities, with exciting expansions like professional grooming and on-site dog photography on the horizon. Considering a stay for your pup? Reach out for a retreat tour to see why Cys Ci is the luxury choice for discerning dog owners. https://www.cysci.co.uk/ And we’re excited to announce: Cys Ci is proudly sponsoring The Pembrokeshire Herald’s Top Pet competition! Stay tuned for updates on our website and social channels. Pembrokeshire Pet Bakery Step into Pembrokeshire Pet Bakery, and you’re immediately welcomed by the heart-warming aroma of vegan pet treats freshly baked on-site. Their open kitchen often bustles with the crafting of doggy delicacies, from Dog-nuts and Woofles to an array of 20+ healthboosting biscuits. While dogs get to indulge in these unique treats,
their human companions aren’t forgotten. The café serves rich coffee and scrumptious homemade cakes, ensuring everyone’s palate is pampered. Beyond edibles, the shop also boasts vegan dog shampoos by Narberth Soap Co and chic pet accessories by Pembs Pooches. And for the feline fans, they’ve got cat treats with more goodies for horses and birds on the horizon! https://www.petbakery.uk/ Excitingly, Pembrokeshire Pet Bakery is the proud sponsor of the Top Pet competition. The winning pet’s owner will savour coffee and cake at their Quay Street café, while the triumphant pet enjoys a delightful prize package of pup cake, puppacino, and doggy wine. Cheers to that! Tidy Dog Spa Nestled within the vibrant Withybush Trading Estate in Haverfordwest, Tidy Dog Spa has established itself as
a beacon of luxury and care for our furry companions. Renowned for their topnotch, full-service pet spa, the salon is specially designed to accommodate up to three dog households simultaneously without any mix, ensuring utmost safety and individual attention for each pet. Deeply rooted in the belief that every pet deserves individualized care, Tidy Dog Spa operates on a 1-1 basis, avoiding the use of crates and allowing pets to build a trusting relationship with their groomer. Their team of three dedicated groomers work diligently to maintain consistency, ensuring the same groomer tends to the same dog, whenever possible. This approach proves invaluable for pets, especially those who might be a little shy or apprehensive, helping them ease into their grooming routines seamlessly. Tidy Dog Spa spends quality time during the initial consultation to
understand every pet’s unique requirement, from coat condition and behaviour to lifestyle. After an in-depth discussion with pet parents about maintenance and style preferences, they curate the perfect grooming package, replete with tailored products and schedules. Their flexible appointment options cater to diverse lifestyles, ensuring convenience for all. For those keen on exploring their diverse services, do visit the ‘Tidy Dog -Services’ tab for a comprehensive list. And as a token of appreciation, they’re offering a 50% discount on your next grooming session when you refer a friend. https://tidydoggrooming. co.uk/ We’re thrilled to announce that Tidy Dog Spa is the generous sponsor for The Pembrokeshire Herald’s Top Pet competition. Join us in celebrating this partnership and don’t miss the chance to treat your pet to an unmatched spa day!
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Learn from nature and secure your future with a solar power system One of the most common reactions we have from the general public when enquiring about solar power system is cautious curiosity. They may have already heard basic
soundbites about the benefits of solar, that it is a virtuous investment, it’s good for the environment and will save costs in the long term, but how do they choose what is the right system for their
needs? What pitfalls can they avoid and as it’s a considerable investment, are they at risk of making a costly mistake? Let us reassure you that investing in a solar system supplied by a qualified registered, installer is a very low risk undertaking that is protected and governed by regulation. Choose a Solar provider who is registered with MCS – the industry authority who has very stringent compliance to ensure all installers meet their exacting standards and financial regulation. Naturally, West Wales based Celtic Green Energy meet these requirements and as one of Wales leading renewable energy specialists, have been providing naturally affordable energy solutions the region for the last decade. Is my property suitable for Solar? In the first instance, everyone who uses electricity may be able to have a solar system, however, due to the size constraints of large solar panels, not all properties may be suitable. If you don’t have enough roof space, the roof is in poor condition or your roof is permanently in shadow, a Solar install may not be appropriate. As these are large installations, you need to own the property, however, if you rent your property, you would need to seek the landlord’s permission to have an installation fitted. What can I use Solar power for? Anything that has an electric plug can be powered by solar power! When the sun shines during the day, electricity is generated by the solar PV panels – even on a cloudy day! You can use your kitchen appliances such
as kettles, microwaves, washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators whilst you relax watching daytime TV. If the solar power is insufficient to power these appliances, your alternative power source from the national grid will kick in at the usual tariff charge. Needless to say, the more solar panels you have, the more electricity you generate, the less you are dependent on the national grid and the more you save. Where do I start? A good starting point to find a suitable installer is to check out the MCS website for a list of regional registered approved businesses (available here.) or by asking your neighbour who they used and were they happy with the service. A quick phone call will offer you a rough price guide, but a site survey will be needed to ascertain the best system for your needs. At Celtic Green Energy, we have a free Energy Helpline where customers can phone in to discuss their needs in detail. As every property owner has differing criteria from building type, location, environment, living conditions, energy behaviours to monthly consumption – a bespoke Solar system will need to be designed to satisfy these particular constraints. An initial phone call will arrange a no-obligation free site survey when we will be able to advise you on your ideal system. What do I need? The Renewable Energy surveyor will discuss your usage needs and address your concerns with the most appropriate system for your requirements. Your current energy consumption is always
a good starting point, so a solar system will be proposed to match this precedent. There are a variety of solar panel options available – mostly roof mounted, but if roof space is a problem and there is spare land, a ground mount system could be considered. You can also choose to have stylish in-roof panels, all black or bezel edge finishes. If you use a lot of your energy after daytime, a solar battery system should be considered where you can use solar energy at night. There are a great selection of solar batteries available on the market varying in performance, capacity, longevity and price. When choosing a suitable battery, go for the best performance at the best price, but make sure it has a good warranty – some are only 2-3 years, others are up to 10 years. Remember that Solar Power system is a great source of free electricity for other applications such as powering Air Source Heat Pumps, underfloor heating, electric immersion water heaters and charging electric vehicles. What are normally energy hungry products can be powered for free. Ask the energy advisor about the best product solutions for your requirements. What about costs? Installing a renewable energy system may be a significant upfront cost, but should be considered a long term investment that will secure your future energy needs without the fear of continually rising energy costs. Remember that during the energy crisis of 2022, a number of successful family businesses such as bakers and butchers went out of business simply because they
were faced with astronomical electricity bills after coming out of fixed price energy contracts. Unlike the purchase of a car, a solar system will add worth to your property and help values appreciate over time. Most systems are staged payments and only paid for in full after completion. Depending on your location, industry sector or if you are a private resident, grant funding is often available to help with the installation of renewable energy systems. Your energy provider will be able to advise you what’s available at the prevailing time. Sum up… With the rising uncertainty of energy prices, the Solar Power industry is seeing a mass of interest in their products, but met with profound confusion from the general public. There is widespread competition amongst energy installers offering attractive low cost options and undercutting tactics, but make sure your installer is registered and complicit with industry standards. Thankfully Celtic Green Energy are well established with a formidable reputation for quality and service. they have a particularly good reputation of understanding their products and helping advise customers on the most appropriate choice for their needs, aspirations and budget to provide them with long term fuel security. If you would like to know more about having solar power system installed, you can call their energy help line 01269 500388 or learn more and visit their website here. Here’s to brighter tomorrows and sunnier savings!
newyddion 49
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Bywyd newydd i hen gapel Hermon
gan gefnogi cymunedau Cymraeg sydd â dwysedd uchel o ail gartrefi. Mae dros 20 o grwpiau eisoes wedi elwa o’r cynllun. Dywedodd y cydlynydd Prosiect Perthyn, Cris Tomos:
“Mae hi mor bwysig bod cymunedau lleol yn cael y cyfle i gadw a defnyddio asedau lleol ar gyfer mentrau lleol fel cynllun yr hen gapel yn Hermon ac i sicrhau bod yr asedau cymunedol yma i aros i genedlaethau’r dyfodol.” Dywedodd Gweinidog y Gymraeg ac Addysg, Jeremy Miles: “Pan fydd capel yn cau, mae’n aml yn golygu bod canolfan gymunedol bwysig yn cael ei cholli. Mae’n braf gallu cefnogi’r fenter gyffrous hon a sicrhau y bydd cyfleoedd i bobl fyw a chymdeithasu yn y Gymraeg. Mae creu tai fforddiadwy yn gwneud gwahaniaeth mawr i gynaladwyedd ein cymunedau Cymraeg.”
NEWYDDION
MAE gwaith wedi dechrau i ddatblygu hen gapel yn Hermon, Sir Benfro, i fod yn ganolfan dreftadaeth, caffi, a fflatiau fforddiadwy, diolch i ymdrechion pobl leol a grant Project Perthyn gan Lywodraeth Cymru. Mae gwaith wedi dechrau i ddatblygu hen gapel yn Hermon, Sir Benfro, i fod yn ganolfan dreftadaeth, caffi, a fflatiau fforddiadwy, diolch i ymdrechion pobl leol a grant Project Edrych i’r dyfodol: Capel Hermon Perthyn gan Lywodraeth ariannol o £21,000 gan newydd. Cymru. Dyfarnwyd y cyllid Mae’r gymuned ar Lywodraeth Cymru, mae drwy gynllun Grantiau CarTrefUn wedi gallu fin prynu adeilad yr hen swyddogion Bach Prosiect Perthyn. gapel ac mae CarTrefUn penodi prosiect, creu cynlluniau Nod y grant yw helpu wedi dechrau ar y greu cyfleoedd pensaernïol ac i prosiect o ddatblygu’r economaidd, darparu archwiliadau safle er safle er budd y gymuned. tai fforddiadwy o dan mwyn datblygu’r ganolfan Gyda chymorth arweiniad y gymuned
Gwersi Cymraeg am ddim yn ei gwneud hi’n haws nag erioed i ddysgu Cymraeg MAE blwyddyn gyntaf y cynllun gwersi Cymraeg am ddim i bobl ifanc a staff y sector addysg wedi bod yn llwyddiant yn ôl Llywodraeth Cymru, gan ei gwneud hi’n haws nag erioed i bobl ddysgu’r iaith. Mae’r cynllun yn rhan o Gytundeb Cydweithio Llywodraeth Cymru â Phlaid Cymru. Rhwng 22 Medi 2022 a 31 Mawrth 2023, ymunodd dros 1,500 o bobl ifanc 16-25 â gwersi dysgu Cymraeg, a dros 450 o athrawon a darpar athrawon. Mae’r artist stryd o Gaerdydd, Daniel Reeves a gaiff ei adnabod fel ‘Revealist’, wedi manteisio ar y cynllun. Dywedodd: “Fe welais i neges ar Instagram am wersi Cymraeg am ddim i bobl dan 25 oed. Fe wnes i chwilio ar y we a rhoi fy enw i lawr yn syth. “Roedd dysgu Cymraeg ar-lein gyda’r tiwtor yn hawdd iawn. Roedd hi’n help mawr. Mae wedi bod yn wych cael cefnogaeth gan gymaint o bobl ar y daith, o gymaint o wahanol gefndiroedd, ond y peth gorau i fi yw gallu teimlo’n falch am rywbeth dw i’n
gweithio arno.” Un o’r athrawon sydd wedi dysgu Cymraeg yn ystod y flwyddyn ddiwethaf yw Tom Trevarthen o Ysgol Henry Richard Tregaron - un o’r bobl oedd ar restr fer Dysgwr y Flwyddyn eleni. Dywedodd: “Dw i wedi byw yng Nghymru ers symud yma i astudio dros ddegawd yn ôl, ac y llynedd fe wnes i benderfynu ei bod hi’n hen bryd i fi ddysgu Cymraeg, ac ers hynny dw i wedi bwrw ’mlaen ac wir wedi joio. “Mae’r Gymraeg nawr yn rhan bwysig o ’mywyd cymdeithasol a ’mywyd gwaith. Mae
llawer o blant yn yr ysgol yn siarad Cymraeg fel ail iaith a dw i’n gobeithio bod fy ngweld i’n dysgu ac yn dod yn fwy hyderus i ddefnyddio’r Gymraeg wedi bod yn ysbrydoliaeth iddyn nhw.” Dywedodd Jeremy Miles, Gweinidog y Gymraeg ac Addysg: “Mae’r Gymraeg yn perthyn i ni i gyd, ac wrth lansio’r fenter hon y llynedd, y nod oedd ei gwneud hi’n haws nag erioed i bobl ddysgu’r iaith a magu’r hyder i’w defnyddio yn eu bywydau bob dydd. Rwy’n hynod o falch fod bron i 2,000 o bobl wedi manteisio ar y cyfle dros y flwyddyn
ddiwethaf. “Drwy gynnig gwersi Cymraeg am ddim, rydym wedi sicrhau fod pobl ifanc yn gallu parhau i ddatblygu a gwella eu sgiliau Cymraeg ar ôl gadael yr ysgol, a’u bod yn gallu defnyddio’r iaith yn eu gwaith ac wrth gymdeithasu. “Mae datblygu sgiliau Cymraeg y gweithlu addysg yn allweddol i gyrraedd ein nod o filiwn o siaradwyr Cymraeg erbyn 2050.” Dywedodd Cefin Campbell AS, Aelod Dynodedig: “Mae’n wych gweld y brwdfrydedd a bod pobl yn manteisio ar y cynnig hwn o wersi
Cymraeg am ddim i bobl ifanc ac i rai yn y proffesiwn addysgu. Mae’n rhan allweddol o’r pecyn o bolisïau i gryfhau’r Gymraeg, sy’n digwydd drwy’r Cytundeb Cydweithio rhwng Plaid Cymru a Llywodraeth Cymru. “Flwyddyn ers ei lansio, mae’n arbennig gweld yr effaith y mae’r cynllun hwn yn ei chael. Rwy’n gobeithio y gwelwn lwyddiant y cynllun yn parhau, ac y bydd yn magu hyd yn oed mwy o fomentwm wrth symud ymlaen.” Dywedodd Dona Lewis, Prif Weithredwr y Ganolfan Dysgu Cymraeg Genedlaethol: “Creu a chefnogi siaradwyr newydd y Gymraeg yw prif nod y Ganolfan, ac rydyn ni’n cynnig ystod o gyfleoedd i bobl fwynhau dysgu a defnyddio’r Gymraeg. “Mae cynlluniau penodol ar gyfer pobl ifanc a’r gweithlu addysg, gyda dosbarthiadau wynebyn-wyneb, rhai rhithiol, a chyrsiau hunan-astudio ar-lein. Mae ’na fwrlwm yn y sector a galw am gyfleoedd newydd, a byddwn yn parhau i weithio gyda’n partneriaid i ehangu ein darpariaeth.”
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FUW urges vigilance as Bluetongue virus identified in England
FARMING
The Farmers’ Union of Wales is urging its members to be extremely vigilant following the confirmation of a single case of Bluetongue virus 3 (BTV 3) in a cow on premises in Kent near Canterbury, England on Saturday 11 November 2023. BTV is a notifiable exotic disease that infects ruminants, such as sheep and cattle, and is transmitted by biting midge which are most active between the months of April and November. Initial tracings have not identified any connection to Wales from this animal. However, there is currently no commercial vaccine against BTV 3 that is approved for use in the UK and the FUW is therefore urging its members to consider the origin of purchased stock and the use of over-wintering in high risk areas of England. FUW Deputy Head of Policy Dr Hazel Wright, said: “It is perhaps confirmation of our robust GB annual BTV disease
surveillance programme that this single case was detected in a nonimported animal. This early detection has allowed the appropriate measures to be put in place to minimise the risk of disease transmission further afield in England and offers some protection to our farmers here in Wales.” As part of a 10km temporary control zone which has been
established around the affected premises, the movements of susceptible animals will be restricted. Additional surveillance is also being undertaken to ensure that this is an isolated case. “Whilst this virus does not affect people or food safety, understanding the risks associated with buying in stock is imperative as the impact of this disease on livestock can be
extremely variable. Some animals will show no clinical signs of infection whilst mortality can occur in severe cases,” added Dr Wright. For BTV serotypes 1,2, 4 and 8, vaccination is possible and members should discuss the best options for protecting their stock with their vet. Vaccines do not offer cross protection so vaccination against these BTV serotypes will not
protect stock from BTV3. “BTV can spread rapidly amongst ruminants and can cause significant production losses. Alongside purchasing livestock from responsible sources, surveillance is the best way to combat the spread of this disease and we are therefore urging members to be vigilant and report any suspicions of disease immediately,” she said.
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FUW looks forward to busy Winter Fair 2023
The Farmers’ Union of Wales is looking forward to a busy Royal Welsh Winter Fair, which takes place in Llanelwedd at the end of November (Monday 27 - Tuesday 28 November 2023). Those visiting the FUW over the two days can look forward to plenty of expert discussions
with staff and officials with much of the focus being placed on the Habitat Wales Scheme, Sustainable Farming Scheme, and funding for agriculture. The FUW is also asking visitors to the stand about their experience with livestock worrying and those completing the survey
will be entered into a draw to win the Union’s 2024 hamper, which is sponsored by FUW Insurance Services. There is an opportunity to purchase the Union’s Christmas cards and 2024 calendars, which are sold in aid of the President’s charity - the Wales Air Ambulance.The winners of the Christmas card designs will be revealed and presented with their prizes on Monday 27 November at 11.30am at the FUW stand. The winner of the FUW’s 2024 calendar front cover will also be presented with her prize. Speaking ahead of the event, FUW President Ian Rickman said:
“As we speed towards the end of the year, we look forward to discussing all farming matters with members at our stand over the two days. These are challenging times for
the industry and I look forward to sharing what we have done to ensure there are thriving, sustainable, family farms in Wales and to hear from our members about what concerns they have
going forward.” A warm welcome with a cuppa and a mince pie is guaranteed for all who visit the Union stand, which is located next to the main ring in South Glamorgan Hall.
FARMING 53
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Emblematic red meat brands are ‘pillars of future Welsh industry prosperity’ - HCC Chair Welsh red meat’s brand reputation is building globally and will help to boost sales and “future-proof our way of life, protect our farms and defend our livelihoods,” the Chair of Hybu Cig CymruMeat Promotion Wales (HCC) told industry delegates attending the HCC annual conference in Builth Wells on November 9. “We meet with a new positivity; we are moving from strength to strength,” Catherine Smith reported. “Our emblematic brands encompass and reflect the honesty, integrity and wholesomeness of our production process and of our natural food. They are the solid pillars of our future prosperity.” She said the Welsh industry’s sustainability credentials, like its great premium meats, were world-leaders. “Our lamb exports are buoyant; domestic interest is growing. We’re making great progress. With your help and HCC’s team and resourcefulness, our movement is unstoppable.” Catherine Smith stated the Welsh industry was in a strong position because stakeholder levy was linked to inflation, protected against further annual erosion and being spent effectively and wisely. The current lamb campaign mixed traditional TV advertising work with nimble, innovative and multi-platform communications. HCC’s beef campaign - Naturally Local - was also up and running and will crank up approaching the festive season. Combined, they are expected to reach four million people.
“And they are working. On the marketing front, it’s gratifying that we’ve already had an unprecedented response to this dramatically different, c o n t e m p o r a r y approach,” she said. “Last month, at the global showcase Anuga in Cologne, the HCC team reported their busiest show ever with interest from scores of buyers from across Europe, North America and the Far East. “We are also seeing more demand from UK consumers for high-quality and home-produced beef and for the first eight months of this year, UK sheepmeat export volumes increased year-on-year by twelve per cent from January
to August, with product from Wales accounting for a significant proportion of this.” Catherine said that the HCC conference speakers were brilliant industry advocates. “Our keynote speaker, Professor Dr Peer Ederer, is the cofounder of a powerful new group that seeks to help us right the wrongs that have been blighting our industry - the imbalanced narrative of a small, but wellfunded, minority who make disproportionate, unrepresentative and inaccurate claims about our work.” She cautioned that to defeat this disinformation, the industry in Wales must also fire many effective slingshots of its own.
“Our information must be impeccable to support our case. Years of ground-breaking research and months of evidence-building went into making our branding work robust, persuasive and resilient. But of course, it all rests on the brilliance of our farmers and their unrivalled sustainability credentials that truly authenticate HCC’s “the Welsh Way” of production. “ T o g e t h e r , empowered by irrefutable evidence and the courage of our convictions, we will win the battle. And together, we can - and will - make Wales a great global leader of this fantastic industry,” she concluded.
I would like to start this week’s column by thanking all our county staff who have helped members with filling in the Expression of Interest forms for the Habitat Wales Scheme. As you know, the EOI window closed on the 10 November and we are now hoping that as many members as possible will be offered contracts. Whilst carrying out this work on behalf of members, we identified major flaws and inaccuracies in the mapping data which RPW have provided. Whilst all advanced level Glastir habitat options were mapped, entry level Glastir habitat options were not. There are also a number of examples where habitat land has been identified as the wrong type of habitat. We have further come across large areas of commercially planted coniferous woodland which have been incorrectly identified as permanent dry grassland , open country or enclosed wetland. We have been extremely vocal about the compensation farmers would receive for the actions and restrictions that are required under the new scheme, which will be a fraction of what it used to be. Those currently in Glastir report cuts in their payments of between 60 and 95% if they agree to participate. This is due to a combination of payment rates which have been set at around 45% lower than the payments under Glastir Advanced which were based on calculations of income forgone and costs incurred, and the omission of ongoing support payments for those currently in Glastir Organic. Unfortunately, for the majority, and particularly those farmers who
have been in agrienvironment schemes for decades, the changes to their farming systems are effectively irreversible and they have long factored these payments into their cash flows. This means that the reductions in payments raise major concerns around the financial viability of their businesses - points which we have raised repeatedly with our politicians on behalf of our members. While the payment rates have been set, an overall budget for the scheme is yet to be confirmed. We are told that this is due to the fact that HWS payments will be processed during the 2024-25 financial year and therefore the Welsh Government won’t be in a position to confirm a budget until after the draft budget is announced in December. As a scheme with the primary objective of supporting those currently in Glastir to continue with their environmental work ahead of the SFS, we would expect at least those 3,000 or so contract holders to submit an expression of interest. However, the lack of total submissions in the weeks leading up to the 10 November demonstrated how the scheme is not fit for purpose and is symptomatic of introducing a new scheme in such a short space of time with very limited co-design and engagement with stakeholders. We will continue to work with the Welsh Government to ensure that lessons from this scheme are learnt and not repeated in the Sustainable Farming Scheme but we should also be honest and warn members that there is a growing concern that these lower payment rates are here to stay.
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RSPCA Cymru reveals intentional harm increase in Wales
PETS CORNER
The charity is urging people to help Cancel Out Cruelty Heartbreaking figures released by RSPCA Cymru have shown reports of intentional harm have risen by 9% - with incidents peaking during the summer months. As a result, the animal charity is bracing for one of its busiest summers this year as it expects another summer of suffering, with more people reporting cruelty to animals from July to September. The charity has launched its Cancel Out Cruelty campaign, to raise funds to help its frontline rescue teams continue to save animals from cruelty and abuse and to raise awareness about how to stop cruelty to animals for good. The figures, exclusively released today by the RSPCA, show: •
Calls relating to intentional harm in Wales over the past three years have
•
•
•
increased from 691 (2021) to 753 last year (2022) - a 9% increase. The total number of complaints of alleged cruelty (all animals) in 2022 across Wales was 5,632. In July, August, and September calls about intentional harm were at their highest with 73 in July, 83 in August, and 82 in September. The three highest counties for intentional harm calls were Swansea (62),
Cardiff (61), and Rhondda Cynon Taf (59). The most calls in a North Wales county was Flintshire with 54. ‘Heartbreaking that animal cruelty is on the rise’ Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said: “Right now, animal cruelty is happening in England and Wales on a massive scale and rising. It is heartbreaking that we are seeing such sad figures which show animal cruelty is, very sadly, on the rise. “While we don’t know for certain why there has been an increase in reports of cruelty, the cost of living crisis and the post-pandemic world we live in have created an animal welfare crisis with more people getting pets with potentially less time and money to care for them. “Each year, these reports of cruelty reach their terrible annual peak in the summer months – when we receive a report of an animal being beaten on average every hour of every day. “The cost-of-living crisis also means the cost of rescuing animals is at an all-time high and our vital services are
stretched to the limit.” It is not known why reports of animal cruelty peak in the summer months although factors like animal abuse being more visible as people are outdoors more could be one factor. The RSPCA is the only charity rescuing animals and investigating cruelty in England and Wales with a team of frontline rescue officers, specialist vet teams, and a network of animal care centers and 140 branches providing rehabilitation to animal victims. Dermot added: “Together, we believe we can and will cancel out cruelty to animals by replacing violence with kindness. We are urging people to donate to our Cancel Out Cruelty campaign, every donation will help animals.” Incidents of cruelty in Wales include a South Wales man was caught on CCTV abusing his German Shepherd last summer after footage showed him kicking the dog and hanging him from a fence with his lead. Last month, the RSPCA revealed a hedgehog was found alive but covered in blood with its intestines trailing out, in a bedroom drawer.
Despite being rushed to a vet immediately, the hedgehog was sadly put to sleep to prevent further suffering. As the only charity in England and Wales investigating cruelty and rescuing animals, the RSPCA needs support to stay out on the frontline: •
• • • • • • •
£2 could help to provide a meal for a cat or dog in our care £6 could help pay to feed a dog for a day in our care £10 could help pay towards bandages for a cat or dog £15 could help pay for a cat or dog’s clinical exam £20 could help pay towards a bird catching kit £30 could help pay for a life jacket for an inspector £100 could help pay towards water rescue equipment £500 could kit out a 4x4 inspector van
The RSPCA’s frontline teams are working hard to rescue animals in need this summer but we can’t do it alone - we need your help to Cancel Out Cruelty. To help support the RSPCA, visit: www. rspca.org.uk/stopcruelty
EDUCATION 55
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Unearthing Gaza’s past UWTSD academic Professor Louise Steel has taken part in a podcast to discuss the archaeology in Gaza, including her own excavations and the region’s significance in antiquity. From Neolithic Britain to the Fall of Rome, The Ancients is dedicated to discussing our distant past. Hosted by Tristan Hughes, the podcast features interviews with historians and archaeologists, each episode covering a specific theme from antiquity. In this episode, Tristan Hughes welcomed Professor Louise Steel to discuss her team’s excavations in Gaza and what the archaeology there can tell us. “Together, they looked at Gaza during the
Professor Louise Steel and her team: On-site at Tell Ruqeish, Gaza. Bronze Age, the area’s connections with ancient Egypt, and assessed Gaza’s significance in the ancient world. Following the recording, Professor
Louise Steel commented: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to The Ancients podcast. “Throughout history, the area today known as
Gaza has often been a contentious place. “Its historical significance is a history that spans nearly three millennia, and archaeological evidence
shows us that it was an international hub frequented by the Egyptians, Mycenaeans, Hittites and more. “ A r c h a e o l o g i c a l l y, Gaza is a fascinating place, and I wouldn’t be the academic I am today if I hadn’t had the opportunity to work there in the early 90s. “Gaza gave me the understanding that it’s important not just to excavate, record, leave and go away to write various academic papers on the work but to engage with the people and the communities whose archaeology you’re excavating. “I’d like to thank Tristan for inviting me on the podcast to discuss an aspect of my academic work so close to my heart.”
New research has revealed just how acutely Autistic people experience loneliness contradicting the stereotype that they avoid seeking meaningful social relationships. Loneliness negatively affects physical and mental health in both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals and rates of loneliness are up to four times higher in Autistic individuals than their peers. Autistic people also have a greater vulnerability to the negative physical and psychological consequences of loneliness. However, social environments often act as barriers, making it more difficult for people with higher levels of sensory differences to interact with others. A new study, which has just been published by journal Autism in Adulthood, investigated Autistic people’s experiences and sought to not only quantify the level of distress associated with loneliness but also
to provide a qualitative insight into Autistic adults’ loneliness. The authors include Dr Gemma Williams, a public health research officer in the School of Health and Social Care. She said: “In the quantitative part of the study, our results indicate that sensory differences are related with higher loneliness and associated poor mental health in both Autistic and non-Autistic adults. This effect was exacerbated in Autistic adults due to a greater presence of sensory processing differences.” For the qualitative part of the study, she collated first-hand reports from Autistic adults on intense loneliness and the obstructive role of sensory environments which refute stereotypes about Autistic adults lacking social motivation. For example, one of the participants explained that where people live can have a big impact on their social interaction. She said: “The cost of transport in the city, it’s really quite expensive and prohibitive for some people. Especially if
people are out of work or in transient work or zerohour contracts where they don’t know how much or how many hours they’re gonna get from one month to the next.” During a cost-ofliving crisis, meeting up for activities may be out of reach for many individuals, but Autistic people are especially vulnerable as they frequent experience financial inequalities relating not only to a lack of employment opportunities and support but also access to benefits. Taken together, the research team’s two studies confirm that loneliness is significantly related to feelings of distress and poor mental health in both Autistic and non-autistic adults. M o r e o v e r , experiencing sensory differences in a world that does not accommodate for variant sensory profiles may drive people to become increasingly isolated, contributing to feelings of loneliness. One participant described the difficulties she had experienced
in making friends: “Sometimes I have trouble having a conversation or to be understood because I don’t have the same thought process. Which makes it weird sometimes and people are wondering ‘what are you saying?’ or ‘I can’t understand what do you mean?’” Another added: “I’m trying to reach out, I’m trying to find my people, but it all still feels a bit hopeless.” As sensory differences are especially prevalent in the Autistic
EDUCATION
Study examines the devastating impact of loneliness on Autistic people
community, they may compound other societal, social, and affective factors, ultimately giving rise to higher numbers of loneliness and associated distress. Dr Williams added: “Our research highlighted how painfully loneliness is often experienced by Autistic adults. We conclude that to enable meaningful and inclusive social interaction, a real societal effort is needed to create spaces that consider the sensory needs of all neurotypes.”
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MOTORS
New Black Edition of ever-popular Volvo XC60
Volvo Car UK has added more choice and style to its XC60 range with the introduction of the Black Edition. As a new addition to the range, the XC60 Black Edition combines an allblack design with generous equipment levels and a choice of three powerful allwheel-drive powertrains. The name says it all: this new version is finished exclusively in Onyx Black and features a number of additional black details to give the car its unique look. The Volvo Cars logo, lettering, model and engine emblems, for example, are all in black, as are the 21-inch alloy wheels. The all-black look gives the premium SUV additional
sportiness and elegance. The dark colour scheme continues in the interior: a headliner in charcoal meets partial Nappa leather/textile front sports seats or full Nappa leather front comfort seats, both also in charcoal. The comfort seats feature ventilated upholstery, a backrest massage function and electrically adjustable side support. Extensive equipment, three engine options The XC60 Black Edition can be combined with the two highest trim levels, Plus and Ultimate. As a result, occupants enjoy supreme comfort. In addition to the keyless entry and start system and handsfree power-operated tailgate of Plus versions, features onboard include a heated steering wheel, adjustable ambient lighting and airpurification with fine particle filtering. Front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view camera system make manoeuvring in tight spaces simple. Adding to this, the topof-the-line XC60 Ultimate Black Edition comes with electronic air suspension with adaptive dampers, a head-up display, active bending headlights with adaptive shadow technology, a powered passenger seat and a
1,100W Bowers & Wilkins sound system, among other features. Three powertrains are available: the 250hp B5 mild-hybrid petrol, and the T6 and T8 petrol-electric plug-in hybrids. The T6 combines a 253hp petrol engine with a 145hp electric motor, while the T8 has the same electric motor but a 310hp version of the petrol engine. In combination with their 18.8kWh (nominal) high-voltage battery, the plug-in hybrid versions can cover up to 47 miles on battery power alone. All versions have an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. On-the-road prices for the XC60 Black Edition start from £54,035 for the B5 Plus, rising to £69,385 for the T8 Ultimate. Those customers who order their car by 27 November 2023, however, will benefit from special introductory pricing, with savings of £1,750 on Plus versions and £1,000 on Ultimate cars. The XC60 Black Edition is on sale now, with first customer deliveries expected early next year. For more information on the XC60 Black Edition, please go to www. volvocars.co.uk
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TOYOTA AYGO - 2012
HYUNDAI TUCSON - 2016
NISSAN QASHQAI+2 - 2013
KIA SPORTAGE - 2014
SAAB 9-3 - 2009
1.0 VVT-I FIRE AC 3d 67 BHP ** PETROL......5 SPEED......YES ONLY 60,065 MILES FROM NEW.......SERVICE HISTORY 9 STAMPS.......2 KEYS........2 PREVIOUS OWNERS.........£0 ROAD TAX.........LOW INSURANCE GROUP 3..
1.7 CRDI SE NAV BLUE DRIVE 5d 114 BHP ** DIESEL .......6 SPEED.....1 PREVIOUS OWNER........SERVICE HISTORY 10 STAMPS ALL MAIN DEALER.......2 KEYS.......£35 ROAD TAX.......61 MPG.
1.5 PLUS 2 DCI N-TEC PLUS 5d 110 BHP ** DIESEL......7 SEATER.......6 SPEED.....£180 ROAD TAX......53 MPG......N-TEC PLUS EDITION...... GLASS ROOF......AIRCON.......CRUISE..
1.7 CRDI 2 ISG 5d 114 BHP ** DIESEL.....6 SPEED.......1 PREVIOUS OWNER.......4 WHEEL DRIVE......SERVICE HISTORY......2 KEYS......CRDi 2 EDITION.......HALF LEATHER SEATS.
1.8 LINEAR SE T 2d 150 BHP ** PETROL....CONVERTIBLE....1 PREVIOUS OWNER....YES ONLY 64,171 MILES.... SERVICE HISTORY - 7 STAMPS....TWO KEYS....HEATED FRONT SEATS....
KIA CEED - 2014
BMW 1 SERIES - 2013
SMART FORTWO COUPE - 2010
FORD KA - 2013
1.6 CRDI 2 ECODYNAMICS 5d 126 BHP **DIESEL.......ESTATE......6 SPEED......87,389 MILES.......SERVICE HISTORY 4 STAMPS......2 KEYS.....,.£35 ROAD TAX.......64 MPG.......SPORTS WAGON ....
1.6 116I SE 5d 135 BHP ** PETROL........8 SPEED AUTOMATIC.......2 PREVIOUS OWNERS........YES ONLY 68,313 MILES FROM NEW....... SERVICE HISTORY 4 STAMPS........2 KEYS.........£150 ROAD TAX..........50 MPG....
PASSION MHD ** PETROL......AUTOMATIC......YES ONLY 59,859 MILES......... SERVICE HISTORY 8 STAMPS.........£20 ROAD TAX........74 MPG........PASSION EDITION.......AIRCON..
1.2 ZETEC 3d 69 BHP ** PETROL......5 SPEED......YES ONLY COVERED 35,785 MILES FROM NEW.......WITH SERVICE HISTORY 5 STAMPS.........1 PREVIOUS OWNER......2 KEYS.........£35 ROAD TAX..
MERCEDES-BENZ A-CLASS 2015
£4,495
£6,295
£8,495
£5,995
£6,995
£5,495
1.5 A180 CDI BLUEEFFICIENCY SE 5d 109 BHP **DIESEL....6 SPEED.....£0 ROAD TAX.......74 MPG.......2 KEYS....... SE EDITION.......HALF LEATHER SPORTS SEATS.......MEDIA SCREEN....
£8,995
£4,995
£5,495
VAUXHALL VAUXHALL CORSA - 2013
MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS - 2015
MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS - 2014
2.1 C220 BLUETEC SE 4d 170 BHP ** DIESEL......6 SPEED.......1 PREVIOUS OWNER......£20 ROAD TAX......70 MPG......2 KEYS.....blueTEC SE EDITION.......FULL BLACK LEATHER......... MEDIA SCREEN.........BLUETOOTH...
2.1 C220 CDI AMG SPORT EDITION 2d 168 BHP ** DIESEL.......COUPE...... AUTOMATIC 7 SPEED.......YES ONLY 83,149 MILES........£180 ROAD TAX........53 MPG........AMG SPORT EDITION.......HALF LEATHER
£9,995
CITROEN DS4 - 2012
FORD FIESTA - 2012
1.6 HDI DSTYLE 5d 110 BHP ** DIESEL......6 SPEED.....2 PREVIOUS OWNER........96.829 MILES........SERVICE HISTORY 6 STAMPS.......£150 ROAD TAX.......60MPG.........2 KEYS........ DSTYLE EDITION.....
11.4 TITANIUM 5d 96 BHP ** PETROL......5 SPEED......1 PREVIOUS OWNER.......£180 ROAD TAX...... LOW INSURANCE GROUP 9.........48 MPG........2 KEYS.....TITANIUM EDITION.......AIRCON..
1.4 SE 5d 98 BHP ** PETROL.... SERVICE HISTORY - 8 SERVICE STAMPS....57,299 FROM NEW!....SE EDITION....£150 ROAD TAX...
£4,295
£5,795
CITROEN C4 GRAND PICASSO
VOLVO XC60 - 2011
SEAT LEON - 2013
VOLKSWAGEN UP - 2013
DACIA LOGAN MCV - 2015
1.6 E-HDI AIRDREAM EXCLUSIVE PLUS 5d 113 BHP ** 7 SEATER.... DIESEL....6 SPEED....£20 ROAD TAX....70 MPG.......EXCLUSIVE PLUS EDITION.......HUGE SPEC...
2.4 D5 R-DESIGN AWD 5d 212 BHP ** DIESEL.......AUTOMATIC......ESTATE......4 WHEEL DRIVE......ONE PREVIOUS OWNER.....SERVICE HISTORY 10 STAMPS......R DESIGN EDITION..
£7,495
£6,995
2.0 TDI SE TECHNOLOGY 3d 150 BHP ** DIESEL......6 SPEED.....ONE PREVIOUS OWNER.........FULL SERVICE HISTORY........£20 ROAD TAX......,..68 MPG........SE EDITION.........SATNAV......... BLUETOOTH...
1.0 ROCK UP 3d 74 BHP ** PETROL.......5 SPEED.......YES ONLY COVERED 42,131 MILES FROM NEW........FULL SERVICE HISTORY 5 STAMPS........2 KEYS........£20 ROAD TAX.......60 MPG..
0.9 AMBIANCE TCE 5d 90 BHP ** PETROL.......ESTATE......ONE PREVIOUS OWNER.......5 SPEED......£20 ROAD TAX .......LOW INSURANCE GROUP 8.........57 MPG......AMBIANCE EDITION.....
£4,995
£7,295
£9,995
£6,995
£9,495
£4,995
01792 814 110 after hours 07976 731 199 • BEVANS GARAGE, PENIEL GREEN ROAD, SKEWEN, SWANSEA, SA7 9BU
www.junction44motorcompany.co.uk • junction44motorcompany@gmail.com
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MG4 announced as Parkers Car of the Year 2024
MG Motor UK is celebrating a triple win at the Parkers New Car Awards 2024, with the MG4 EV taking two category wins in this year’s awards, as well as the outright title of Car of the Year 2024. The MG4 EV has been named as Parkers’ ‘Best Small Family Car’ of the year, with judges recognising ‘that the MG4 EV offers excellent space for people, their luggage and nicknacks for the money’. It has also been voted as ‘Best Value Car’ of the year according to Parkers’ editor Keith Adams, commenting that “the MG4 EV is not only great value, but also a very impressive piece of kit. Even if it were a similar price to its closest rivals, it would be a winner – but at thousands less it’s an irresistible choice for anyone looking for an allelectric family car”. “Taking the top
honours in the Parkers New Car Awards 2024 is a remarkable achievement for a value-priced EV,” said Keith Adams. “It’s a reflection of just how effective MG’s rebirth has been, transforming into a fast-growing brand concentrating on EVs. In short, the MG4 EV is an outstanding Parkers Car of The Year.” The MG4 EV has now secured more than 30 award wins since its debut last year, including an impressive nine overall ‘Car of the Year’ titles. Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director at MG Motor UK, said: “We are thrilled that Parkers has recognised MG4 EV as Car of the Year in its New Car Awards 2024. To take such a prestigious award, is further recognition of the impact MG4 is having on the market. “MG Motor UK is striving to offer customers
affordable, practical, yet enjoyable EVs, and the MG4 line-up – which includes the new Extended Range model with 323 mile driving range and high-performance XPower hot hatch – certainly delivers on those aims.” Parkers.co.uk is one of the UK’s biggest motoring reviews and advice websites, drawing more than three million sessions generating more than 10 million page views a month. Parkers has been running since 1972, initially as a monthly car valuation book, and has offered readers a comprehensive online car advice website for almost 25 years, expanding as users rely on its expert car reviews, buying tools, valuations, features, and cars for sale. For more information about MG or to find your nearest dealer, visit www. mg.co.uk.
2017/17 JAGUAR F-TYPE 5.0 V8R SUPERCHARGED CONVETIBLE AUTOMATIC ONLY 7000 MILES, WHITE WITH BLACK ROOF 2022 72 2021 21 2020 70 2020 20 2019 69 2019 19 2019 19 2019 68 2018 68 2018 18 2018 18 2018 18 2018 18 2017 67 2017 67 2017 67 2017 17 2017 17 2016 16 2015 65 2015 15 2014 64 2013 63 2013 63 2013 63 2013 13
TOYOTA AYGO 1.0 X PURE AUTOMATIC, 5dr, white, 1 owner, 5k .....................£15,500.00 FORD FIESTA 1.0 ST LINE EDITION, 5dr, black, 1 owner, fsh, ............................£15,995.00 MINI COOPER S ELECTRIC. 3dr, grey. 19k, 1 owner ............................................£13,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.0 TREND, 5dr, blue, 15k ...............................................................£13,595.00 TOYOTA C-HR DYNAMIQUE 1,8 HYBRID, 5dr, silver, fsh, 1 owner....................£14,995.00 CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS 1.5 BLUE Hdi Flair, 19k, fsh. .........................................£11,995.00 VAUXHALL INSIGNIA DESIGN 1.6 TD, 5dr, service history, blue .........................£7,995.00 FORD FOCUS 1.0 125 ZETEC, 5dr, silver, 43k, 1 owner, fsh ...................................£11,995.00 BMW I3 600cc RANGE ENTENDER, blue, 21k, 1 owner, fsh .................................£19,995.00 FORD FOCUS 1.0 ZETEC ESTATE, silver, ...............................................................£6,995.00 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 2.0 GT TDI 5dr, B/motion, white,1 owner .........................£11,995.00 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6 CDTi DESIGN ESTATE, silver, ..........................................£7,995.00 PEUGEOT 108 1.2 ALLURE, purple, 46k, ................................................................£8,495.00 KIA SPORTAGE 2 1.7 CRDI, silver, 1 owner, fsh, ...................................................£11,995.00 HYUNDAI TUCSON 1.7 CRDi 2wd, grey, 1 owner, 76k, fsh ...................................£12,995.00 FIAT ABARTH 1.4 AUTOMATIC, blue, 2000 miles, 1 owner, fsh ..........................£14,750.00 SKODA FABIA 1.4S Tdi ESTATE, grey, 1owner, .......................................................£6,995.00 FIAT 500 1.2 POP, white, 33k .....................................................................................£7,650.00 CITROEN DS3 1.6 ULTRA PRESTIGE Hdi, 3dr, purple, 1 owner, 9k ....................£7,995.00 PEUGEOT PARTNER HORIZON S 1.6 MPV, mobility access, blue, 19k ...............£9,500.00 CITROEN C1 1.0 AIRSPACE, orange, 5dr, 59k .........................................................£5,495.00 PEUGEOT 108 ALLURE 1.2 TOP, white, 32k, service history, ................................£6,250.00 AUDI A3 2.0 SE TDI, 3dr, white, service history, .....................................................£6,995.00 PEUGEOT 208 1.4 HDI ACCESS, 5dr, grey, service history .....................................£4,495.00 TOYOTA AYGO 1.0 MOVE, 5dr, white, service history ...........................................£3,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.5 STYLE Tdci 5dr, silver .................................................................£4,850.00
2013 13 2013 13 2013 62 2012 62 2012 12 2011 61 2011 11 2010 10 2010 10 2010 10 2004 53 1999 S
FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI ZETEC, 5dr, red, ...............................................................£4,995.00 AUDI A1 1.6 SPORT Tdi, black, 3dr ..........................................................................£5,000.00 FORD B MAX 1.5 ZETEC TDCI MPV, blue, 5 dr, sliding rear doors. .....................£4,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.4 EDGE Tdci 5dr, silver ..................................................................£4,250.00 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 2.0 GT TDI CONVERTIBLE B/motion, white, ...................£5,995.00 PEUGEOT 107 1.0 URBAN 5 DR HATCHBACK, silver, 62k, ..................................£2,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.2 ZETEC 3dr, silver, 56k, ................................................................£5,850.00 BMW 710 DIESEL M SPORT 4dr SALOON, black, .................................................£7,995.00 FORD FIESTA 1.4 TITANIUM, AUTOMATIC, 3dr, red, 46k ..................................£6,500.00 FORD FIESTA EDGE 1.4 Tdci, 1 owner, fsh, silver ..................................................£4,250.00 PORSCHE BOXSTER S 3.2 CONVERTIBLE, blue, 54k, s/history ...........................£7,995.00 BMW Z3 2.8 SPORT CONVERTIBLE, 2dr, silver, genuine low mileage..................£7,995.00
COMMERCIALS
Prices inclusive of 20% VAT 2019 69
MERCEDES SPRINTER CAR TRANSPORTER 2.1 Cdi, 1 owner, 70k ...................£29,995.00
2019 19
MERCEDES SPRINTER DROPSIDE Lorry, 2.1 Cdi, 1 owner, ...............................£16,000.00
2018 68
FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2.0 Tdi, white, 1 owner ................................................£13,500.00
2018 18
FORD TRANSIT 2.0 TDCI TIPPER, 49k, 1 owner, white .......................................£16,495.00
2018 18
FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2.0 Tdi, yellow, ............................................................£13,000.00
2018 18
PEUGEOT PARTNER 1.6 TDI, white, ......................................................................£7,995.00
2017 67
FORD TRANSIT CONNECT 1.5 td, 1 owner, 70k ...................................................£11,500.00
2016 16
MERCEDES SPRINTER 2.1 Cdi FRIDGE VAN .......................................................£6,250.00
2016 16
VAUXHALL CORSA 1.3 Cdti, white, 85k ..................................................................£6,995.00
2011 61
FORD TRANSIT 100 2.4 T350 Semi high top, white ................................................£4,995.00
2011 11
FORD TRANSIT CONNECT 1.8 TDI, silver (no vat)...............................................£3,500.00
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‘Alarming’ frequency of hypos in type 1 diabetes revealed in new poll
HEALTH
More than one in four people with type 1 diabetes experience dangerously low blood sugar levels at least once every three days, a survey published to mark World Diabetes Day has found. According to the ‘Living with Diabetes Survey 2023’ report compiled by Afon Technology, 28% of the 305 people with type 1 diabetes surveyed had 10 or more episodes of hypoglycaemia every month. A total of 599 people with both type 1 and 2 diabetes took part in the questionnaire, which highlighted that 61.5% of the participants use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or flash technology to monitor their blood glucose levels. The findings have identified that some people do not use a CGM because they are too expensive, painful, not available in their country and can be inaccurate. In addition, some individuals are not using a CGM because they are waiting to access a non-invasive device. Sabih Chaudhry, CEO for Afon Technology, said: “Today we unveil a critical insight from our recent survey, revealing 27.9%
of people with type 1 diabetes experience at least one hypoglycaemic episode every week at least once every three days. This is alarming and a clear signal that we need to revolutionise diabetes management.” If left untreated, severe cases of hypoglycaemia – when blood sugar levels fall below 4mmol/L – can be dangerous. Symptoms of a hypo include feeling hungry, dizzy, weak and confused, as well as shaking, sweating, tingling lips and blurred vision. According to Diabetes UK, a mild hypo can be treated through eating or drinking 15 to 20 grams of fast acting carbohydrates such as glucose tablets, sweets, sugary fizzy drinks or fruit juice. Some people with
diabetes may also need to take 15 to 20 grams of slower acting carbohydrates if the next meal is not due, the charity has reported. Scientists at the Monmouthshire-based tech firm are creating the world’s first non-invasive wearable blood glucose sensor, which is tipped to completely transform the lives of those with diabetes by completely removing needles from the process of monitoring blood sugar levels. The sensor sits on the inside of your wrist and uses Bluetooth technology to send realtime information to a companion app which will display your blood glucose trends and alert you to high/low glucose levels as well as personal
health trends. Sabih added: “At Afon Technology, we believe in the transformative power of continuous glucose monitoring. Our mission is to change the lives of those with diabetes, and we are on the cusp of making needles a relic of the past in blood sugar monitoring. By detecting low sugar levels swiftly and accurately, we hope to turn the tide against hypos and offer a brighter, needle-free future for people managing diabetes.” Non-invasive blood glucose monitoring is the ‘holy grail’ in the world of diabetes and as of yet no one has been able to crack it. Currently, there are 537 million adults globally living with diabetes.
Evidence has shown that the NHS spends £10 billion per year on diabetes, with NHS Wales spending £500 million each year on the condition. Unlike the current continuous glucose monitoring devices, Afon Technology’s sensor will measure blood glucose levels in real-time without the need to penetrate the skin at all, making it easier to manage the condition, reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications such as heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney failure and limb amputations. Companies such as Apple, Samsung and Google are rumoured to have been trying to develop non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, but so far none have been successful. Afon Technology hopes to win the race to this important milestone. Preliminary clinical research gives people with diabetes hope that such a device could become a reality in the near future. World Diabetes Day is the primary global awareness campaign focusing on diabetes mellitus and is held on 14 November each year.
Cross party group launches inquiry report into state of diabetes care in wales
On the day of the inquiry report, Public Health Wales has published new predicted prevalence statistics for diabetes over coming years, showing a big increase in prevalence in type 2 diabetes. The Inquiry report notes the issue of increasing prevalence of diabetes in Wales, and makes recommendations for sustained funding for the All Wales Diabetes Prevention Programme; calls for the rollout of an All-Wales Remission Programme; and calls for action to target the obesity crisis through healthier food environments. Rachel Burr, Director of Diabetes UK Cymru, says: ‘We are delighted to support the CPG report, which acknowledges the hard work and
dedication of clinicians providing care for people living with and at risk of diabetes in Wales, but also makes constructive recommendations for improvements. We know this is a tough time for our NHS and that the financial constraints are very challenging, but by listening to the people affected by diabetes, we believe it is not only possible, but essential, to prioritise and invest in projects and improvement work which offer maximum impact for their cost. Diabetes is serious and affects 1 in 13 people in Wales, and we must take action to reduce prevalence and support the people who live with and manage this condition every day. We need action around access to technology, addressing
inequity in use of lifechanging diabetes tech; investment in prevention and remission initiatives; and improvement in routine care for people with diabetes to help prevent the frightening complications that diabetes can bring.’ About the newly published diabetes prevalence statistics, she continues: ‘Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition, and we need to be doing as much as possible as a society to help reduce the number of people living with type 2 diabetes. The All Wales Diabetes Prevention Programme is a crucial way to support people to reduce their likelihood of developing diabetes. We need to see sustained investment in the programme to ensure that it continues
and expands to become available for every person at risk of type 2 diabetes in Wales. The programme also needs to be part of a broader set of measure to create healthier food environments which support and enable people to make affordable, healthy food choices, as outlined in the Healthy Weight, Healthy Wales strategy.’ yne Bryant MS, Chair of the CPG on Diabetes, says: ‘After an extensive inquiry, the CPG is pleased to publish this report, which demonstrates the complexity of diabetes care and the need for comprehensive evaluation and improvement. The report sheds light on the challenges healthcare providers face and the impact on the quality and accessibility of diabetes
care. By understanding the experiences of people living with diabetes, and looking at the data which demonstrates areas of improvement, we can work towards ensuring equitable access to diabetes care that can significantly improve the lives of individuals living with diabetes. The impact of obesity on diabetes has also been a key aspect of our inquiry. We have examined the effectiveness of measures undertaken by the Welsh Government through the Healthy Weight Healthy Wales Strategy and Health Boards to reduce obesity levels. The responses have provided valuable perspectives on the progress made and the need for further initiatives to address the continuing rise of obesity in Wales.’
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Create more lifesavers like Cassie at St John Ambulance this Christmas Learning first aid skills with St John Ambulance Cymru helped Cassie save her six-year-old son’s life. Gifting a donation to the charity this Christmas will help to make a lifesaving impact on more families and communities across the country. On the 15th June 2022, Cassie and her family’s lives changed forever. Cassie saved her son’s life following a serious road accident, using the vital first aid skills she had learnt volunteering with St John Ambulance Cymru. Cassie was taking her children to visit their grandmother when the accident took place. Her son Charlie was just six years old at the time, and her daughter Evangeline was fifteen. Cassie had joined St John Ambulance Cymru as a volunteer due to Evangeline’s enthusiasm for the Badger and Cadet programmes growing up, and the pair loved socialising and learning new skills with fellow volunteers. On the day of the accident, Evangeline was accompanied by her friend and fellow Cadet Cadence. Cassie, Evangeline and
Cadence had varied levels of first aid training between them, with Cassie completing more senior training courses, including a Catastrophic Haemorrhage training session just a week prior to the accident. When Charlie was hurt, Cassie, Evangeline and Cadence showed unimaginable bravery. Cassie used the skills she had learnt at her most recent training session to save her little boy’s life, applying a tourniquet and instructing her daughter to call an ambulance. An air ambulance transported Cassie and Charlie to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, where a team of doctors and surgeons were waiting for him. Charlie had been through a serious trauma and underwent extensive surgery in hospital. Cassie recalled, “One doctor had been informed by more than one person that evening that Charlie’s own family were the reason he was still alive. “Because of our actions, Charlie had made it this far and the doctor believed that because we had remained calm, had treated the injuries and
continually reassured Charlie, we had instilled in him a strong will to survive.” Charlie’s road to recovery has been gruelling, but despite the trauma he has faced at such a young age, today he smiles, laughs and plays. “He is my superhero,” Cassie said. With the help of orthopaedic shoes, a walking frame, or his crutches, Charlie has learnt to adapt to his new body and the way in which it works. “I find it hard to put into words just how much first aid and St John Ambulance Cymru means to me” Cassie added. “They are the difference between life and death.” “My training meant that I had the skills to deliver first aid, the confidence to assess the situation and ultimately save my son’s life.” “I will never be able to thank each and every one of my trainers and fellow volunteers over the three years prior to the accident enough, because together, they gave me a confidence I didn’t have before, an enthusiasm and passion for learning and an overwhelming desire to help others in their time
of need.” First aid training saves lives. With the public’s generous donations, St John Ambulance Cymru can continue to train people
in these invaluable skills, support their committed volunteers and run their incredible youth programmes for young people, making Wales a safer place for
all.
To support the first aid charity for Wales this Christmas, please visit https://www.sjacymru. org.uk/christmasappeal.
NHS charity funds examination chair worth over £5,500 for gynaecology patients Thanks to generous donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, has been able to fund a gynaecology examination chair at a cost of £5,834 for use at Glangwili Hospital, Carmarthenshire. The chair, which will be used to help patients in the new clinical examination room at Glangwili Hospital, will enable staff to see, review and consult gynaecology cancer patients in a timelier fashion. Helen Frise-Jones, Gynaecology Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the donations that have enabled this chair to be
purchased for the new clinical examination room. “The new chair has enabled our services to provide a dedicated Rapid Access room where we can see patients who are suspected or diagnosed of having a gynaecology cancer. This new room has sped up the cancer pathway waiting times by us streamlining patients straight into this clinic.” 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 dona-
tion we receive.” For more details about the charity and
how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www.hy-
welddahealthcharities. org.uk
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Churchill’s Day Centre opens amidst personal struggles
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BUSINESS
SSH@businessinfocus.co.uk Unit 6 Riverside Shopping Centre Haverfordwest SA61 2LJ
IN A HEARTWARMING yet poignant turn of events, the opening of Churchill’s Day Centre on Bush Street in Pembroke Dock symbolizes a significant triumph over adversity. The centre, co-founded by Savannah and her business partner Mrs. Guy, emerged from a deeply personal struggle with dementia and the inadequacies of the current care system. Savannah’s journey
began with her mother’s battle with end-stage vascular dementia and Parkinson’s, compounded by the loss of family members to similar conditions. Confronted with lengthy waiting lists for local council day centres and bureaucratic hurdles, Savannah Duane and Mrs. Guy, herself a pensioner and mourning the loss of her mother to dementia, decided to take matters into their own hands. Despite no funding
and battling their own health issues, including Savannah’s chronic conditions, they forged ahead. Utilizing their savings, pensions, disability benefits, and donations, including an organ and bric-a-brac from sympathetic locals, they established the day centre. Their efforts are a testament to their resilience and dedication to the community. Churchill’s Day Centre, however, faces its own set of challenges. It currently stands empty,
struggling to cover its expenses. The centre can accommodate 65 individuals suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other disabilities, but awareness and accessibility issues hinder its utilization. These challenges are further compounded by broader systemic issues, such as delayed diagnoses, staff shortages, and bureaucratic red tape in healthcare services. The centre promises substantial local employment opportunities, offering 14 full-time and 4 parttime jobs. It also aims to provide much-needed respite for caregivers and a hub for social interaction and activities for those affected. Local entities like the job centre and Futureworks have been instrumental in supporting the initiative, assisting with training and staff preparation. With 1 in 6 people potentially affected by these conditions, and 6,884 individuals in West Wales currently struggling with them, the
need for such a facility is clear. Savannah and Mrs. Guy hope to address these needs while also bringing attention to the inadequacies in transportation for disabled individuals in Pembroke Dock. In collaboration with the Pembrokeshire County Council, Churchill’s Day Centre is part of a new project for day opportunities, making it easier for GPs, social workers, and family members to refer potential attendees. Despite the hurdles, the founders remain committed to their mission, urging the community to support and spread the word about this vital resource. Their story is not just about the opening of a day centre; it’s a call to action for better support and awareness of the challenges faced by those with debilitating conditions and their caregivers. Savannah and Mrs. Guy’s journey is a poignant reminder of the power of community spirit and the urgent need for systemic change in dementia care.
Carmarthenshire company targets ‘world-class’ status CARMARTHENSHIRE-based manufacturing company Victorian Sliders is being tipped to become a “world-class business” following a new £4million investment by BGF – one of the largest and most experienced investors in the UK and Ireland. The Ammanfordheadquartered company is now poised for a period of accelerated growth after BGF, which invested £14million in the business two years ago, provided an additional round of funding alongside HSBC to support its growth plans. Group Managing Director Steve Winslet said: “Over the last 18 months, we’ve made significant strides in quality, reliability, lead times and customer service. “We are determined to maintain that progress and turn Victorian Sliders
into a world-class manufacturing company. “We are incredibly excited to be entering a new era with the continued support of BGF’s investment team.” As a result of the £4-million injection of funding, Scot Starkey will pursue other ventures and will no longer be involved in the business. “We want to thank Scot Starkey for his years of investment and dedication to the business and wish him all the best for his future ventures,” Steve added. “With an experienced new leadership team in place, our focus is on implementing a customercentric strategy that puts the installers, housebuilders, local authorities and housing associations we work with first.” Steve Winslet has been joined by an experienced team to help build on Victorian Sliders’ mar-
ket-leading proposition. Mark Shather joins as Finance Director, with decades of experience in multiple sectors, including window manufacturing. Strategic Development Director Nick Evans has significant funding and operational experience in private equity-backed businesses across global markets and manufacturing. Together with Jason Powell, who has worked alongside Steve since August 2022 leading production, they will combine to deliver the team’s customer-centric growth agenda. The BGF investment was led by Edwin Davies and Hannah Waters. Edwin Davies, Investor at BGF who also joined the Victorian Sliders board following BGF’s initial £14-million investment in August 2021, said: “As a long-term investor, we are proud to have supported
Victorian Sliders in accelerating its growth journey over the last three years. “We have seen Victorian Sliders go from strength to strength and we are confident that with the additional £4-million of BGF investment, combined with the new leadership team’s experience and expertise, the business’s impressive growth trajectory will continue to gather further momentum. “Steve is right to set his sights sky-high and under his astute leadership, we are confident that Victorian Sliders will become a world-class manufacturer for Wales to be proud of.”
Legal advisers on the transaction were Geraint Tilsley, of Cardiff law firm Lewis Silkin, for BGF, and Andrew Hoad and Kate Wilson, of Hugh James, which is also based in the capital city, for Victorian Sliders. In the coming months, Victorian Sliders will seek to drive product development, key strategic partnerships, and expand into new markets. The imminent appointment of a new sales and marketing director to spearhead this customercentric strategy will complete the new team.
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Wickedly Welsh Chocolate triumphs with ALDI Wales listings HAVERFORDWESTBASED chocolatier, Wickedly Welsh Chocolate, has emerged victorious in the competitive world of supermarket listings, securing a prominent spot on the shelves of all 56 ALDI stores in Wales. Renowned as ‘the Willy Wonkas of Wales,’ the family-run business has clinched this success with two of its delectable offerings: the 90-gram Salted Caramel and Milk Chocolate bars. The announcement comes in the wake of a resounding victory for Wickedly Welsh Chocolate at a consumer-focused supplier event held in Swansea, orchestrated by the retail giant ALDI. The event scrutinized crucial aspects such as flavour, taste, pricing, and the likelihood of repeated purchases, amassing a staggering 16,000 data points
Luke Sinclair
Luke@herald.email
during the evaluation process. Co-founder and Chief Chocolatier at Wickedly Welsh, Karen Owen, expressed her elation at the achievement, stating, “As a family-run and independent business, we are really excited to have secured two product listings across all of ALDI’s Welsh supermarkets. We were blown away at the high scores we received from consumers who took part in the event, and we cannot wait to see our products on the shelves. The entire team here at Wickedly Welsh Chocolate was over the moon when we heard the news.” The success at ALDI adds another feather to the cap of Wickedly Welsh Chocolate, which already boasts a presence in esteemed
establishments such as Fortnum and Mason and Co-op (Wales). The expansion into ALDI signifies a strategic move, tapping into a wider market and enhancing the accessibility of their artisanal chocolates to a diverse customer base. Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, shared her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to be partnering with Wickedly Welsh Chocolate after they received rave reviews at our Swansea supplier event earlier this year. Supporting and helping local businesses to thrive is hugely important to us at Aldi, and I do not doubt that shoppers across Wales will love this new addition to our shelves.” The partnership between ALDI and Wickedly Welsh Chocolate not only underscores the supermarket’s
commitment to championing local enterprises but also highlights the artisanal prowess and quality of Welsh-produced chocolates. As these delightful bars make their way to the shelves, consumers can look
forward to a sweet symphony of flavours that have won the hearts of both critics and the public alike. This collaboration is a testament to the thriving artisanal food scene in Pembrokeshire and positions Wickedly Welsh Chocolate as a
beacon of excellence in the world of confectionery. As the chocolatier’s delectable creations find a new home in ALDI stores across Wales, it is a celebration not just for the brand but for the entire Welsh culinary landscape.
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WG Consults on Final Options positively liberal for Council Tax Reform With ANDREW LYE
POLITICS
Last week saw the news dominated by the latest outpouring of attention grabbing headlines by Home Secretary, Suella Braverman. These included fining charities that give tents to the homeless and claims it was a lifestyle choice to be homeless. She has now accused the police of bias against right wing protestors, in order to favour marches by Palestine ceasefire protestors. As Home Secretary, it’s her job to support the police, yet she seems to be acting like Donald Trump, in making her wild, attention seeking comments. It is strange that some supported Braverman, saying that she says what the silent majority are thinking. She certainly did not speak for me! Thankfully, on Monday morning, she was finally sacked. The Liberal Democrats had called on the Prime Minister to sack Suella Braverman after what looks like her latest breach of the Ministerial Code. The Prime Minister’s spokesperson admitted today that Number 10 had not signed off on the Home Secretary’s inflammatory op-ed in the Times Suella Braverman is not fit to hold the office of Home Secretary. She divides communities with reckless abandon, playing a personal political game with no care for the consequences suffered by the people she is supposed to protect. She was the most dangerous and divisive Home Secretary of modern times. This country will be safer without her in post. This was a situation of the Prime Minister’s own making. He appointed her knowing she had previously broken the Ministerial Code, yet
he was too scared to stand up to her. Responding to Suella Braverman’s new policy of fining charities for providing tents to homeless people, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson Alistair Carmichael MP said: “This is grim politics from a desperate Conservative government which knows its days are numbered.” “It is a new low for Braverman to criminalise homeless charities for simply trying to keep vulnerable people warm and dry in winter.” “The British public raise millions of pounds for homeless people at this time of year, and the government’s response is to criminalise those charities trying to help.” “This policy will do nothing to stop rough sleeping and will leave vulnerable people to face the harsh weather conditions without any shelter whatsoever.” Last week also saw the first King’s Speech in over 70 years, being delivered by King Charles III. Responding to the King’s Speech today, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said: “The country is crying out for change and hope for a brighter future, instead all Rishi Sunak had to offer was cheap gimmicks and reheated policies. “There was nothing but empty words on the biggest issues facing the country, from the NHS crisis to the sewage scandal. There were no real solutions for patients left waiting months in pain for treatment, homeowners seeing their mortgages sky-rocket or communities seeing their local rivers ruined by sewage. “It shows the C o n s e r v a t i v e government is out of touch, out of ideas and deserves to be kicked out of office.”
If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales
ON MONDAY, the Welsh Government announced the next stage of its plan to reform Council Tax in Wales (November 13). Wales’s Minister for Finance, Rebecca Evans, launched a consultation on the proposals, setting out three options. Whichever option is adopted, all residential properties in Wales will be revalued to establish where they sit in a revised Council Tax system. Properties in Wales were last revalued twenty years ago, and valuations made then are now outdated. The Welsh Government presents an option to kick reform down the road to the next Senedd term. However, the Institute of Fiscal Studies, which advised the Welsh Government on the reform process, says it should press ahead with revaluing and reforming council tax at the earliest opportunity – and the governments in Westminster and Holyrood should follow suit. MAKING THE SYSTEM FAIRER Council Tax helps fund the essential services provided by local councils. The Tax funds everything from schools to local libraries, social care to street cleaning. The Welsh Government says it does not want to increase the amount of money Council Tax raises. Accordingly, any redesign should raise the same amount of council tax across Wales as the current system. That does not mean there will not be winners and losers. Under the current system, people living in homes in the lowest council tax bands pay a relatively higher amount
of council tax compared to their homes’ value than people who live in higher-value homes. The Welsh Government wants to redress that balance. That means those who own properties in higher Council Tax bands could see their bills markedly increase. Under a direct revaluation across Wales: •
• • • •
55% of households see a change in their tax bill of less than £50; 8% of households lose between £50£200; 12% lose more than £200; 12% gain between £50-£200; and 13% gain more than £200.
in Pembrokeshire, the County’s Council Taxpayers would see a small overall decrease in their annual bills. Reform would also go a long way towards tackling the hangover from IPG misgovernance that sees Pembrokeshire get far less money from the Welsh Government’s annual local government settlement than comparable counties across Wales. CHANGES WON’T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT Rebecca Evans said: “We are asking people to help us shape the future of council tax in Wales. Achieving a fairer council tax will be one of the most beneficial actions this government can take towards making Wales a more equal nation. The benefits will be felt in the pockets of many households. “This is not about raising more money from taxes; changes will not happen overnight. “We see this very much as being a gradual
process and that is why we are also asking for views on the pace of change.” The Welsh Government’s three proposed approaches are: Minimal reform – a revaluation of properties to check they are up-todate but keeping the current nine bands and tax rates. That would update the current system and make a small move towards fairness. Modest reform – a revaluation plus further reforms to the tax rates charged for each band to spread council tax more fairly. That means bills for households in lower band properties would fall, and bills for those in the highest band properties would rise. The Welsh Government claims this would produce greater fairness. Expanded reform – a revaluation plus further reforms, including additional tax bands and tax rate changes. This approach would see the number of bands increasing from 9 to 12, adding one band at the bottom for the lowest-value properties in Wales and two more bands at the top for the most expensive properties valued at over £1.2 million. The Welsh Government says that would be “a decisive move in the direction of fairness”. The earliest date for any changes coming into effect is April 1 2025. However, changes could be deferred until the next Senedd term or introduced in stages. PROPERTY REVALUATION VITAL The IFS says: “Revaluation is unambiguously a good idea. It is absurd that we tax people based on 20-year-old property valuations (let alone 32-year-old valuations in England and Scotland).
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blue view
By Ian Harrison
Rebecca Evans: Minister launches consultation on Council Tax reform It is hard to see any principled objection to bringing valuations up to date.” Nevertheless, the Conservatives are prepared to give it a go. Welsh Conservative Shadow Local Government Minister Sam Rowlands MS said: “Since 1999, council tax in Wales has increased by nearly 200%. “The Labour Government, in the typical spirit of wanting to make taxation more ‘progressive’, is stealthily planning on hiking up council tax for hard-working people. “The last time a revaluation took place in Wales, 1 in 3 families were hit with higher bills. We can’t allow this to happen in the current cost of living challenge. “It’s vitally important that any council tax revaluation is fair and justified and doesn’t hit hard-working people across Wales.” Cefin Campbell, Mid and West Regional MS and Designated Member under the LabourPlaid Cooperation
Agreement, said: “It is widely recognised that council tax is outdated and long overdue for reform. “This consultation is asking for the views of people across Wales on what a council tax could look like in the future and how we can make it fairer. “While change is needed, it will take time meaning bills will not change immediately. We are consulting not only on what needs to change, but when the changes could come into place.” REFORM NEEDED URGENTLY The Institute of Fiscal Studies is adamant the Welsh Government must not delay what it regards as essential reforms. However, it accepts a case exists for transitional arrangements to phase in bills for households seeing particularly large changes. Changes to the design and
administration of the means-tested Council Tax Rebate Scheme (which covers the council tax bills of many low-income households in part or in full) – which are to be consulted on in future – and possibly bill deferral schemes for the ‘asset-rich, cashpoor’ could also be considered to provide particular support to potential low-income losers. The IFS also states: “It is important to emphasise that while some low-income households would lose from making council tax less regressive and people will understandably be concerned about that, a much larger number would gain.” The consultation document does not propose to change the one-adult council tax discount. Its current structure (a 25% discount) means the discount is larger for higher-band, often larger, properties. The discount encourages one-adult households to live in bigger
properties and multiadult households to live in smaller properties than they otherwise would – contributing to the under-occupation and overcrowding of housing. Making the discount a flat amount (rather than being linked to a property’s council tax band) would remove this distortion and, in addition, could contribute to the Welsh Government’s aims of making council tax more progressive. There are still details to iron out and improvements that could be made. Yet, even with these caveats and uncertainties, the proposed direction of travel would represent a clear and major improvement on the status quo. The Welsh Government should proceed with its revaluation and reform of the Council Tax in 2025. The IFS adds: “England and Scotland, where Revaluation and reform are even more desperately needed, should follow suit.”
Time for Change As speculation mounts regarding the timing of the next General Election, as Conservatives we need to focus our attention upon the elections for Police and Crime Commissioners throughout the UK, for May 2024. There are 4 Police Forces within Wales, of which DyfedPowys is by far the largest in terms of size (over 4000 sq. miles and 50% of the land area of Wales) and the smallest in terms of population (below 500,000). The challenges faced by our Police Force in DyfedPowys are unique in that population centres are relatively small compared with other parts of the UK and yet swell significantly during the summer as holiday makers enjoy the delights of our incredible landscapes, beautiful beaches and bustling seaside resorts. Levels of crime swell too, across not just those bustling towns but within the quieter communities off the beaten track, as local hostelries enjoy the economic boon of weekenders, campers and caravanners. Indeed, our rural, farming based communities make up the vast proportion of settlements in our region. The ward where I live in Montgomeryshire is considered large, with a population of less than 2000 adults and children. And of course, crime is present throughout our region, presenting itself as a constant threat to the residents of small and large communities alike. We hear of county lines, drunk and disorderly behaviour, anti-social behaviour, organised shoplifting, domestic and child abuse, and modern slavery. And in these modern times, the transformation of the World Wide Web into the Wild West Web, where cyber criminals are becoming prevalent. And between these people who set out to destroy our lives and livelihoods and ourselves are fellow citizens
licensed to serve and protect us, without fear or favour. A truly remarkable organisation whose roots go back almost 200 years, to the creation of the first Police Force in London by Sir John Peel of the Conservative Party in 1829. This ultimately replaced the Bow Street Runners, the Burlington Beadles and private ‘Thief Takers’ before that. It is no accident, therefore, that the Conservatives became known as the Party of Law and Order, a proud tradition in our heritage. Stephen Crabb MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire recently chaired a Cross Party Welsh Affairs Select Committee meeting on Policing, which was attended by Welsh MPs and the 4 Welsh Police Chief Constables. It was particularly heartening to hear the Dyfed-Powys Chief Constable state that he ‘had never had so many Police Officers’. Of course, he went on to say he could always use more. However, a recent FOI request for crime level data from the Home Office shows that reported levels of crime have doubled over recent years and one has to question why. The DyfedPowys Police and Crimes Commissioner makes many claims about progress tackling crime and supporting victims of crime. But the evidence seems to be stacking up that his policies are not working and fresh ideas, fresh thinking and a fresh approach are overdue. You will have the choice in May. Ian Harrison is the Conservative candidate for Dyfed-Powys Police and Crimes Commissioner in May 2024.
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Labour candidate demands Japan protection update for local specialties by Joyce Watson MS, Labour Mid and West Wales This week I attended a special Remembrance service at the Wales War Memorial to commemorate minority ethnic and Commonwealth servicemen and women. I also attended the National Service of Remembrance on Sunday. As the daughter of a soldier and having represented the Senedd at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association for many years, I am mindful of the sacrifices that others have made for our freedom. The racist thugs who debased the Cenotaph dishonour them all. This year’s Armistice events have taken place against the backdrop of the heartbreaking situation in the Middle East. Last week I backed a Senedd motion calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. Contrary to some media reporting of the vote, Senedd Members from all sides are united in horror at the events that have unfolded in Israel and Gaza over recent weeks – and in our call for the international community to renew its commitment and action to achieve a two-state solution and lasting peace. At First Miniter’s Question Time on Tuesday, I highlighted the importance of Wales’ faith heritage. I invited Mark Drakeford to visit the former Hermon chapel in Pembrokeshire, which is set to get a new lease of life as a heritage centre, café, and affordable flats – thanks to the efforts of local people and Welsh Government funding. I also asked about Welsh Govern-
ment support for the Wexford-Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way, an ambitious and exciting project that has huge tourism potential. There are over 1,500 miles of pilgrim ways in Wales. I can’t think of a better way to enjoy our countryside and heritage than walking these ancient routes. I can’t think of a worse way than persecuting animals in the name of sport. It is nearly 20 years since the UK Labour government banned fox hunting. But the law is being ignored or exploited behind the smokescreen of trail hunting. Wales banned it on land managed by Natural Resources Wales two years ago. We now need the UK government to end hunting with hounds for good. When I raised this at the Welsh Parliament recently, rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths promised to push UK ministers on the matter. For the next few weeks, I will be busy organising, supporting and promoting White Ribbon events. The White Ribbon campaign engages men and boys to end violence against women and girls. It starts on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and runs for 16 days of activism. After the success of last year’s candlelight walk and vigil in Haverfordwest, this year I am taking the campaign to Ammanford. On Thursday 23 November, we will gather at the cricket club car park at 13:15 before walking to the Pensioners Hall – everyone welcome!
Labour’s general election candidate for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, Henry Tufnell, has accused ministers in the Conservative government of being “all talk and no action”, after it emerged that geographical protections promised for regional Welsh specialties in the October 2020 UK-Japan trade deal have still not been delivered more than three years on. When the postBrexit agreement was announced, the government promised that 77 new UK food and drink products would be guaranteed protected geographical indication (GI) status in Japan, alongside seven existing protections carried over from the previous EU-Japan trade deal, covering the likes of Scotch Whisky, Scottish Salmon, and Stilton Cheese. GI status is vital for producers to protect them against competition in foreign markets from falsely-branded imitators. Securing those protections has become an important objective of modern trade deals to support the export potential of specialty food and drink products. Of the 77 new protections that were promised by the Westminster government in October 2020, fifteen were for Welsh specialties, including Pembrokeshire Earlies, Carmarthen Ham, Caerphilly Cheese, West Wales Coracle Caught Salmon and Sewin, Welsh Laverbread, Welsh Lamb, Welsh Beef, Welsh Wine, Welsh Cider, Conwy Mussels, Anglesey Sea Salt and Vale of Clwyd Denbigh Plum. At the time, then Trade Secretary Liz Truss said: “This is a historic moment for the UK and Japan. From our Welsh lamb and Pembrokeshire early potato farmers to our
Traditional Welsh cider breweries, this deal will create new opportunities for people throughout Wales and help level up the whole of the UK.” Her department originally said that all 77 new protections would be in place by May 2021, and boasted that – thanks to the agreement – the UK would benefit from a fast-track process for securing brand protection that “would not have been possible” under the EU-Japan deal, under which it said “the EU must negotiate each new GI individually on a caseby-case basis.” But while the EU has added 84 extra products to its protected list since October 2020, including 28 more just a few weeks ago, the government has yet to secure brand protection for a single one of the 77 products it originally promised. The EU’s number of GIs in Japan now stands at 291, while the UK is still stuck with only the seven protected products it inherited from the EUJapan deal. Labour’s Henry Tufnell said: “Since Liz Truss announced her deal with Japan, we’ve had three harvests of Pembrokeshire Earlies, we’ve had three National Laverbread Days, we’ve
had three seasons for Coracle Caught Sewin and Salmon, and yet we are still waiting for the geographical protections that were promised in that deal. “It sums up so much of what is wrong with this Tory government. All talk and no action. Making promises they never keep. Boasting about things they haven’t delivered. Telling lies for the sake of a press release. And most of all, treating our farming and fishing communities with total contempt. “And of course, what started out in that onesided deal with Japan ended up with the shameful betrayal of the trade deals with Australia and New Zealand, where our farming communities in Wales were sold out by Westminster just so the Tories could claim their rotten Brexit deal was working. “Neither Simon Hart or Stephen Crabb have said a word about the way local food and drink producers in Pembrokeshire have been let down and lied to. We are only going to get the results we need once we have a Labour MP in Mid and South Pembrokeshire, and a Labour government in Downing Street working with our Welsh Labour Government in Cardiff Bay.
“But I’m not prepared to wait that long. I have written to the Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch to remind her of the promises that were made to our region, and demand that she take action to secure the longoverdue protections that our specialty exporters need and deserve.” The candidate for Mid and South Pembrokeshire has been backed up by Labour’s Shadow Trade Minister, Gareth Thomas, who has repeatedly raised the issue of the missing GIs in Parliament. He told the Pembrokeshire Herald: “Henry is absolutely right to ask these questions. Iconic Welsh producers were not only promised that they would receive protection under this deal, but also saw their products used by the government to promote the benefits of a deal that otherwise offered little new to British exporters or the UK economy. “Three years on, those Welsh producers are entitled to ask why the government’s promises have not been kept, and tell them to get on with it, especially since we’ve already had to watch 84 additional EU products receive protected status in Japan in the same time that we’ve been waiting for ours.”
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Cameron’s return a last roll of the dice
THE DECISION to appoint former Prime Minister David Cameron as Foreign Secretary in this week’s reshuffle took the Westminster political bubble by surprise, writes Jonathan Edwards MP. It was a very clever move by Prime Minister Sunak, as essentially everyone was talking about the return of Cameron as opposed to the sacking of the odious Suella Braverman. After her article in The Times last week, which incited the fascist right element of British politics, her position was untenable. I suspect that the Prime Minister might have been advised that the Supreme Court ruling on the Rwanda deportations would likely go against the Government, persuading him to remove his dissident Home Secretary. The former Home Secretary’s resignation letter was brutal. However, its immediate impact will have been blunted by the appointment of Lord Cameron and the Supreme Court’s ruling. That does not mean that the Prime Minister can navigate the Tory
ship to safe waters. Instead, the right of the Tory party is on a wrecking mission. It will rally around Suella Braverman on the backbenches and continue to harry and harass the Government. Such is the insanity engulfing the Tory right that their focus is already on the post-General Election landscape, where the Tories will find themselves in opposition. Most readers will be bemused that for some politicians, what really motivates them is internal battles within their own respective parties. Plaid Cymru has its own problem with its so-called ‘leftwing grouping’, which acts as a party within a party. Their permanent outrage about anything and everything explains why Plaid Cymru is a stagnant political force in our country. Meanwhile, Labour seems to be in a permanent state of civil war between its socialist and social democratic elements. This brings me to the implosion within the Labour Party on the question of a ceasefire in Gaza. Much of politics these days is about an
immediate response to events, but that can often create problems down the line. In the immediate aftermath of the vile attacks on Southern Israel by Hamas on the 7th of October this year, Keir Starmer seemingly offered unequivocal and unconditional support for the Israeli Government including siege warfare against the population of Gaza, which is, of course, against international law. As the military operations by the Israeli Defence Force intensified in Gaza and the civilian death toll spirals, a blank-cheque approach to the Israeli Government has quite rightly appalled anyone with any sense of human compassion. As I said in the Commons this week, quoting the expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Avi Schlaim, revenge is not a policy. The big question policymakers need to focus on now is how the international community creates the conditions for sustainable peace after this terrible war ends. Regrettably, there doesn’t seem to be any coherent plan emerging. As the new Foreign Secretary once said, Gaza is a giant open
prison camp. Further tightening of Israeli control over the enclave will not guarantee security for the people of Israel. I have always subscribed to the twostate solution as the best solution to the conflict. Avi Schlaim, on the other hand, thinks this is a non-starter. An Arab Jew born in Baghdad but whose family moved to Israel after the Second World War, he served in the Israeli Defence Force before becoming an Emeritus Professor of International Affairs at Oxford University. He believes that one state for two peoples living side by side is the only hope for the future of the people of multifaith who have always lived together in the Middle East. Rather than picking sides, the international community must come together to create the frameworks that will enable long-term depolarisation and deescalation. Hopefully, then, both Israelis and Palestinians will offer their support for political leadership focused on peacemaking instead of terror and war.
Startling news emerging from Fleet Street last week suggested that the UK Government wants to implement plans to widen the definitions of “extremism”. This has naturally caused huge concern amongst civil rights organisations and has far reaching implications for freedom of expression. According to documents leaked to the Guardian, Michael Gove’s Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities wants to re-define extremism as an “… advancement of any ideology which aims to overturn or undermine the UK’s system of parliamentary democracy, its institutions and values.” We could argue that this has been going on since the capture of Mrs Thatcher and her acolytes by the American political philosophy of neoliberalism. An ideology intent on eroding the power of the state and happy to sell off most of its assets. The implementation of which in the UK has proven to be reductive and destructive. C o n se rva t i ve governments have prioritised the demands of the wealthy at the expense of the rest of us. The UK has transitioned from being a tax state to being a debt state. The overriding objective seems to be to service debt rather than pursue credible economic development. Since 2010 the Conservatives have inflicted undue misery on everybody as a result of austerity, giving rise to ever increasing rates of poverty and destroying communities. But as of 2019 we have witnessed something far worse, a government putting their own interests above and beyond those of the state; openly undermining the state in ways, which if it happened in any other country, would be called a “coup”. Members of the jury, look at the evidence: They have threatened the independence of the judiciary and judicial reviews; the independence of the state broadcaster; and have undermined public confidence in all institutions of governance, things which individually and collectively have a significant
negative impact on democracy. They have redrawn constituency boundaries to try and maintain parliamentary dominance; prorogued parliament threatening parliamentary sovereignty; introduced compulsory photo ID for Westminster elections, marginalising ethnic minorities, the poor, unemployed and the elderly; and, for good measure, they also want to abolish the Electoral Commission. Last week’s Covid 19 Inquiry only confirmed what we already knew about the inadequacy, utter selfishness and entitlement of the public-school cabal who now rule the UK. There is no going back, the damage is done, extreme ideology has damaged the state’s institutions and values. Just like the Palace of Westminster, the Union is beyond repair. They destabilised the state by their own vices and vanities. It was that brilliant Irishman and wit Oscar Wilde, who said: “And what sort of lives do these people, who pose as being moral, lead themselves? My dear fellow, you forget that we are in the native land of the hypocrite.” If you live in Scotland, stop wasting time and leave. If you live in England, realise that the end of the Union is your chance to renew, reform and revitalise your nation. For those who live in, and care for Wales and our communities, it really is time to explore our potential as a nation, unhindered by successive unaccountable London governments. Together on these British Isles, the independent nations of England, Scotland and Wales can be so much more than this tired, old and failing Union – it has served its purpose, done its time, history will be its judge. We need to move on to the next chapter. Join the campaign for an independent Wales. Join YesCymru and be part of that change. www.yes. cymru/join
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Death Notices
Jane Main MAIN Mrs Jane of Broad Haven passed away on November 6th at home surrounded by love. Beloved Mother of Gordy and Jen and adored Granny to Nina, Rosy, Nesta and Tegwen, and much-loved Mother in law to Fred and Fran. She will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations may be made to Medecins sans Frontieres, RNLI Little and Broad Haven branch or the Paul Sartori Foundation. Funeral Saturday November 25th, 1:30pm at St. Mary’s Church, Talbenny and afterwards in Little Haven. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.
Michael Barrie Williams Williams, Michael Barrie The death occurred on Thursday 5th October at Morriston Hospital of Michael Barrie Williams of Pier Road, Milford Haven after a long illness. There will be a strictly private
cremation in accordance with Barrie’s wishes. Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired, to The Dogs Trust at: https://michael-barriewilliams.muchloved.com/ Alan John Yea YEA Alan John Maidenwells The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Friday 3rd November 2023 of Mr Alan John Yea, aged 83 years of Maidenwells. Devoted Husband of the late Dilys. Dearly loved Dad of Nigel & Mark and Father-in-law to Deborah and Fiona. Loving Grandad of Jenna, Finnley, Harriet and Georgia. Alan will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. The funeral service will take place on Thursday 23rd November 2023 at Ss Faith & Tyfei Church, Lamphey at 1.30pm followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3.15pm. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if so desired for The Paul Sartori Foundation
which may be sent c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 & Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk Gloria Dooley DOOLEY Gloria Pennar, Pembroke Dock The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Tuesday 24th. October of Mrs. Gloria Dooley, of Cross Park, Pembroke Dock. Devoted wife of the late Affie, she was 77. The funeral will take place on Wednesday 22nd, November with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 2.30.pm where friends please meet. 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.
Denys Maxwell Ravenhill RAVENHILL Denys Maxwell Pembroke Dock (Formerly of Pembroke) The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Saturday 4th. November of Mr. Denys Ravenhill of Charles Thomas Avenue, Pembroke Dock and formerly of Croeso Road, Pembroke. The funeral will take place on Friday 1st December with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 2.30.pm. Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Denys for The Chemotherapy Day Unit at Withybush Hospital and The British Heart Foundation may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.
Hospital, Carmarthen on Wednesday 8th November 2023 of Mr Eifion Wyn Powell, aged 87 years of St. Michael’s Road, Pembroke. Dearly loved Dad of Jeffrey and Linda. Eifion will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. The funeral service will take place on Saturday 25th November 2023 at Pennar Community Church, Pembroke Dock at 10.45am followed by interment at St. Michael’s Cemetery. It is the family’s wish that colourful clothing is worn. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired for The Anthony Nolan Trust c/o E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 & Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via www.ecthomasandson. co.uk
Eifion Powell POWELL Eifion Pembroke The death occurred peacefully at Glangwili
Carol Hulott HULOTT Carol Pembroke The death occurred suddenly but peacefully at
her home on Wednesday 1st. November of Mrs. Carol Hulott of Belmont Terrace, Pembroke. She was 72. The funeral will take place on Tuesday 28th November with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 11.30.am. 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. Sonia Margaret Jean Quinn (née Jones) Sonia Margaret Jean Quinn (née Jones) of Haverfordwest Sonia passed away peacefully on the 3rd November with her family by her side. Funeral service, Friday 24th November at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3.15pm. Family flowers only. Donations in memorial to the Paul Sartori Foundation at www.paulsartori.org. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.
Pause for thought... I think I have a pretty good memory. For example, I can still recall praying as a rather innocent five-year-old that Father Christmas would come in July. But, as you might guess he didn’t, much to my disappointment! I vividly remember lying in a bunk bed of a ferry some thirty years ago too as we crossed the English Channel in the aftermath of a force nine gale when taking aid to refugees in war torn Croatia. Memory was clearly important for Judaism from which the Christian faith sprang. Indeed it’s been well said that it is built on a foundation of memory, so much so that one scholar has said that the Hebrew word for ‘remember’ (zachor) is repeated nearly two hundred times in the Hebrew Bible. Memory figures highly in the New Testament too. Christians remember what God has done for them not least when we celebrate the Lords Supper (also known as the Mass or Holy Communion) so regularly. In doing so we ‘remember’ the death and resurrection of Jesus’ until He returns to earth again.
But there are many other things we should not forget. Take generosity for example. The apostle Paul referred to this when he shared the following advice with the leaders of the Ephesian church: ‘I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard’ he said, adding ‘You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Jesus stressed this when He told His disciples to remember that is more blessed to give than to receive. Now I would be the first to admit that it’s brilliant to be given gifts, and I have been blessed in some amazing ways over the years. But how is it more blessed to give than to receive? Well, to begin I have discovered that people who give generously seem to end up being given more in return. The apostle Paul put it this way, ‘Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous.’ But in addition to this encouraging truth, generous people can also relax in the knowledge that acts of generosity warmed God’s heart
too. God, we are told loves ‘cheerful givers’. Interestingly the original Greek word for cheerful has given us the English word ‘hilarious’ and I just love that image. It’s as if we should picture God jumping up and down with glee saying ‘Yes, they’ve done it again!’ We can take it one step further too because we can also imagine God smiling and saying, ‘That’s brilliant. They are becoming more and more like me’. We should never forget that one of God’s most endearing and enduring characteristics is His generosity. We know that is true because Jesus laid down His life for His friends. No one understood that better than John Wesley and it so affected him that he was prompted to say, Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can.” I think we would all do well to remember these words. ROB JAMES
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NEWS 69
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LETTERS & NOTICES
send your letters to: The editor, 11 hamilton terrace, milford haven, Pembrokeshire, sa73 3al email us at: editor@herald.email
Picture of the week! Black Bridge by Robert Davies
The death of running rugby
DEAR SIR,
After the recent Rugby World Cup, former England international Matt Dawson called South Africa the ‘greatest’ rugby team of all time. The Springboks lost to Ireland, only beat a depleted and battered Wales in the last few minutes, and then beat France, England and South Africa, all by a single point. The ‘greatest’? They could have lost three games, perhaps four, instead of one. These games featured ugly, brutal rugby, characterised by massive collisions between heavy players, kick-aheads and endless
injury stoppages, with South Africa bringing on a fresh pack of forwards in the second halves. Fewer and fewer youngsters are carrying on in adult rugby, as it has moved from a non-contact to a constantcontact game - suitable mainly for boxing fans and lovers of blood sports. In amateur days, with no substitutes, there were very few stoppages and far, far more running rugby. Driving mauls would have been disallowed for offside and scrums operated with actual hookers. Wales and France had wonderful teams in the 1970s, with very few new caps, and their exciting games were full of tries scored by the backs. We need to return to understandable rules and perhaps place an average weight limit on teams, as Lord knows how
many players are being brain-damaged in the present bash-fest. Cardiff Rugby Club always had one mantra - ‘get it to the wings’. Of the 8 Williams brothers who played for Cardiff, the great Bleddyn, who captained Cardiff and Wales to inflict the only two defeats on the 1953 All Blacks’ tour, played 78 first-class club games in his final two seasons. With club and international trials, friendlies and charity matches he played over 100 matches (plus training, or course). Bleddyn was a centre, and his brothers Elwyn, a wing-forward, played 37 games a year for Cardiff for seven consecutive years and centre Tony played an average of 35 games in seven years, both overlapping with such greats as Gareth
Edwards, Barry John and Gerald Davies at the Cardiff club. The 8 Williams brothers played over 1,400 games for what was then acknowledged as the ‘greatest rugby club in the world’, with the hardest fixture list, despite the War and National Service limiting the careers of the eldest six. There is no way in modern Terry Breverton
Author - The Greatest Sporting Family in History the Blue and Black Brothers
Does Wales really need so many onshore wind farms? DEAR SIR,
Wales’s landscape is at a pivotal point, with a surge in onshore wind farm
developments. However, we must question whether this is the optimal path for our nation’s energy and environmental future. Recent developments have highlighted a stark contrast between Wales and England in their approach to wind energy. Companies like Bute Energy and Galileo are rapidly proposing new onshore wind farms in Wales. In contrast, England’s focus has been relatively minimal. This disparity raises a crucial question: is onshore wind the right choice for Wales? It’s essential to acknowledge that onshore wind farms can contribute to renewable energy goals. However, the potential of Wales’s windy seas for offshore wind energy is too significant to overlook. Offshore wind alone has the capacity to not only help
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Wales achieve net-zero emissions but also to export surplus energy to England. This approach aligns with Scotland’s strategy, positioning both nations as net power exporters primarily through offshore wind. Conversely, England appears destined to be a net importer of energy. The current limitation in offshore wind development in Wales seems to stem from political decisions made in Westminster, rather than a lack of potential. This raises questions about the motives behind these choices. Are they intended to push the Welsh Government towards onshore developments? Or is there an underlying strategy to maintain a focus on nuclear energy in North Wales? If the UK is serious about addressing climate change and achieving energy security, a more balanced approach is needed. This would involve accelerating offshore wind development in Wales and Scotland, while England focuses on expanding its onshore wind and nuclear capabilities. Such a strategy would optimize overall system costs and contribute to the UK’s broader environmental goals. I urge your readers to consider the longterm implications of
these energy choices. Engaging in community discussions, reaching out to representatives, and supporting initiatives like the CPRW petition can make a significant difference. Together, we can advocate for a sustainable and strategic approach to our nation’s energy future. https://petitions.senedd. wales/petitions/245471 Dr. Jonathan F. Dean
The true costs of Welsh green energy DEAR SIR,
One seriously wonders about the true costs of our ‘green’ energy policies in Wales, rammed through on an increasing scale. The environmental and ecological costs of this intermittent power cannot be determined - how do you account in financial terms the despoliation of our tiny nation? Indeed, any cost-benefit analysis would have militated against Welsh renewables policies. Hundreds of miles more of obtrusive new pylons will be paid for from our taxes, and hundreds of thousands of solar
panels and thousands of wind turbines’ will have to be replaced every 15-20 years. How will they be recycled? Unlike the USA, we do not have enough land to bury things. If the UK Government comes to its senses and uses gas and nuclear power stations for security of 24/365 energy supply, the National Grid will no longer need to expensively rebalance power, when there is too much or too little wind, and similarly with solar, at night and on dull days. To use inefficient renewables has probably tripled energy bills, while China and India open hundreds of new coal plants annually. In 15-25 years, we will see thousands of massive wind generators hanging idle over Welsh hillsides, most new ones with a 2,200-ton concrete and rubble base. Their foreign operators will have vanished, having sold the sites to unknown offshore entities for a pittance. That token offshore outfit will then itself be dissolved to avoid massive costs. Their concrete bases will be there for all time, disrupting water tables, and causing flooding, while politicians eventually get around to taxing the public for removing unrecyclable blades and dangerous
minerals. According to the Northwest Mining Association, a single 3-MW wind turbine needs imports of: • 335 tons of steel • 4.7 tons of copper • 1,200 tons of concrete (cement and aggregates) [- 5,440 cubic yards] • 3 tons of aluminium • 2 tons of rare earth elements -wind turbines, which heavily rely on critical minerals, particularly rare-earth elements (REs) (mainly neodymium [Nd], praseodymium [Pr], and dysprosium [Dy]), for the production of permanent magnet electric generators. • iridium, lithium, cobalt, graphite • aluminium • zinc • molybdenum (116136kg per megawatt) So much for ‘clean’ energy. Mark Drakeford wishes Wales to be a ‘world leader’ in renewables, when hardly anyone on the planet has heard of Wales. I have worked in over 20 countries, mainly in Europe, and have spent some of that time trying to explain what and where Wales is. Fellow Welsh travellers will concur. The
Welsh impact upon global climate will be comparable to that of a gnat. Please watch All Creatures Great and Small and try to spot a turbine across the Yorkshire Moors. In a few years such a bucolic series would be impossible to be filmed in Wales, with hundreds of 820-feet high monsters being planned all across the land ( - for comparison, the Eiffel Tower is 1,024 feet). England has not built any wind energy sites since 2016, and none are being planned - one wonders why? Terry Breverton
FRHistS FRSA FIC FCIM Penarth
The Christmas tree conundrum DEAR SIR,
PCC Cabinet on November 6th decided to introduce a fee of £5 per real Christmas tree collection fee. This item was debated for less than 4 minutes with no questions raised and passed unanimously. PCC since 2016 had a free Christmas tree collection service & the use of this service has
grown annually with 1818 trees collected in 2022. The evidence is fairly clear that the demand for this service is made primarily by residents in our most deprived wards. The claim is made that by charging £5 per tree may save PCC approx £10k. However, there is no certainty that £10k will be saved! In the worst case scenario PCC may save little to nothing through the removal of this much appreciated free service at a time of year when many households budgets are under pressure in giving their families the Christmas they deserve. I along with a number of Independent Group Cllrs have invoked the call-in procedure to challenge this decision and call upon PCC Cabinet to immediately reinstate the free Christmas tree collection service which has been utilised by many who have no means of transporting their tree to a refuse/recycling centre. The call-in will be debated on November 20th at County Hall. Cllr Huw Murphy. Newport & Dinas Ward. Ardal Trefdraeth a Dinas.
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Finalists unveiled for 2023 Sport Pembs Awards
SPORT
The anticipation in the air is palpable as Sport Pembrokeshire reveals the finalists for the muchanticipated 2023 Sport Pembrokeshire Awards. The prestigious accolades, organized by Sport Pembrokeshire in collaboration with Pembrokeshire County Council’s sport development team, have whittled down an impressive 296 nominations to 39 deserving finalists, showcasing the pinnacle of sporting achievement in the region. Matt Freeman, the adept manager of Sport Pembrokeshire, expressed the difficulty faced by the judging panel in selecting the finalists: “Once again, the quality of the nominees was enormously high, and it
was a challenge to narrow it down to three finalists in each category. We are pleased that people took the time to nominate so many deserving winners.” The finalists, spanning various categories, will now have their eyes set on the grand presentation ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 24, at the iconic Folly Farm. This gala evening promises not only to honour the winners across diverse sporting realms but also unveil the recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award and the Chairman’s Special Achievement Award. Among the sponsors contributing to the success of these awards are Sport Pembrokeshire, Valero, The Western Telegraph, Folly Farm, and Pure West Radio, demonstrating the
community-wide support for recognizing and celebrating sporting excellence. The Sport Pembrokeshire Awards spotlight individuals who have excelled in sports over the past 12 months or have demonstrated c o m m e n d a b l e dedication to coaching and grassroots sports organization. From Coach of the Year to Team Young Volunteer of the Year, the awards encompass a broad spectrum of categories, reflecting the diverse and thriving sports scene in Pembrokeshire. Here is a glimpse of the finalists across key categories: Coach of the Year: Sam Feneck (Crossfit) Daisy Griffiths (Gymnastics)
Mikey Newman (Parkour) Female Sporting Achievement: Katie Dickinson (Bowls) Gracie Griffiths (Race Walking) Seren Thorne (Shooting) Male Sporting Achievement: Micky Beckett (Sailing) Jeremy Cross (Tennis) Moritz Neumann (Crossfit) Boys (U16) Sporting Achievement: Finley Bruce (Running) Reuben Lerwill (Gymnastics) Ramon Rees-Siso (Football) Girls (U16) Sporting Achievement: Josie Hawke (Surfing) Chloe John-Driscoll (Shooting) Nina Marsh (Sailing) Disability Sport Award: Bleddyn Gibbs (Weightlifting) Michael Jenkins (Discus) Jules King (Crossfit) Junior (U16) Disability Sport Award: Lewis Crawford (Boccia) Saskia Webb (Swimming)
Ioan Williams (Boccia) Unsung Hero: Dave Astins (Triathlon) Piers Beckett (Sailing) Sam Rossiter (Cricket) Team Achievement of the Year: Haverfordwest County AFC Haverfordwest Ladies Rugby Llangwm RFC Youth Junior (U16) Team Achievement of the Year: Pembrokeshire Schools Football U14’s South Pembs Sharks U14’s Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi Tennis Team Young Volunteer of the Year:
Elizabeth Clissold (Swimming) Ellie Phillips (Swimming) Lukas Tyrrell (Sailing) Club Organiser: Rachel Grieve (Rugby) Stefan Jenkins (Cricket) Huw Jones (Golf) Club of the Year: Hwest Tennis Club Pembroke Cricket Club Tavernspite Short Mat Bowls Club
Pembrokeshire clubs combine and pick up prestigious award C larbeston Road AFC has become the first football club in Pembrokeshire to gain a prestigious Disability Sport Wales (DSW) insport Club award. The club has secured the renowned DSW insport Silver Standard, which recognises the club’s commitment to inclusive practice. The club has gone from strength to strength
since Clarbeston Road AFC formally combined with Cleddau Warriors Disability Football Club and created Clarby Warriors. Clarbeston Road had always linked with Cleddau Warriors by providing coaches for training and match day sessions and this led to the amalgamation and the creation of the Clarby Warriors. Sport Pembrokeshire
works in partnership with DSW to provide the insport Club programme. The programme supports clubs to ensure they are adopting good practice in their approach to inclusion and community participation. The club is now aiming for insport Club Gold standard, which includes continuing inclusive practice demonstrated through
coach education, policies, procedures and governance. Clarbeston Road AFC said it was ‘delighted to receive the insport Club Silver award and to be able to provide inclusive opportunities for disabled people’. The club welcomes new players of all ability levels as well as volunteers and is currently setting up a new fun and inclusive
under 16s mixed Boys and Girls squad. For further information on Clarby Warriors please contact Ian Eynon 07849 528444 or email ian_ eynon@hotmail.com For more information on the insport Club programme, see: www. disabilitysportwales. comor contact Jessica. West@pembrokeshire. gov.uk
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Manderwood Pembrokeshire league DIVISION 1
P
W
D
L
GD
Pts
Goodwick United
9
7
2
0
+35
23
Hakin United
9
6
3
0
+12
21
Results
Merlins Bridge
11
4
3
4
+12
15
DIVISION 1
Clarbeston Road
8
5
0
3
-3
15
-
-
-
-
Tenby
8
3
3
2
+1
12
-
-
-
-
Monkton Swifts
9
3
2
4
+2
11
-
-
-
-
Milford United
7
3
1
3
+5
10
-
-
-
-
Kilgetty
8
3
1
4
-6
10
-
-
-
-
Pennar Robins
8
2
3
3
-10
9
-
-
-
-
DIVISION 2
Carew
8
2
2
4
0
8
Neyland
8
2
0
6
-25
6
Hakin United II
4
0
St Clears
Monkton Swifts II v Hakin United II
2
Merlins Bridge II
2
0
Camrose
DIVISION 3
Narberth
12
1
Cosheston
-
-
-
-
Goodwick United II v Solva
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Pembroke Boro
1
1
Neyland II
Pennar Robins II v Clarbeston Road II
St Florence
4
3
Pennar Robins II
DIVISION 4
-
-
-
-
Carew III v Tenby II
-
-
-
-
Fishguard Sports II v Camrose II
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Milford Athletic v Angle
Camrose II
4
3
Monkton Swifts III
Carew III
0
1
Angle
Fishguard Sports
9
0
2
7
-23
Fixtures • 18th November
11th November
DIVISION 1 Clarbeston Road v Goodwick United Hakin United
v Carew
Neyland v Milford United Tenby v Pennar Robins Cosheston v Merlins Bridge II
DIVISION 2
DIVISION 2
P
W
D
L
GD
Pts
Monkton Swifts II
10
8
1
1
+29
25
Merlins Bridge II
12
7
2
3
+11
23
Narberth
10
7
1
2
+21
22
Hakin United II
12
6
4
2
+11
22
Herbrandston
9
6
3
0
+15
21
St Ishmaels
9
4
1
4
+7
13
Johnston
10
3
3
4
+7
12
Camrose
10
3
3
4
+3
12
Broad Haven
10
2
3
5
-16
9
St Clears
9
1
2
6
-16
5
Carew II
11
1
2
8
-18
5
Cosheston
10
0
1
9
-54
1
DIVISION 3
P
W
D
L
GD
Pts
Tenby II
6
1
Fishguard Sports II
DIVISION 5
Lawrenny
7
7
0
0
+21
21
-
-
-
-
Haverfordwest CC II v Broad Haven II
Goodwick Utd II
9
6
1
2
+19
19
-
-
-
-
Letterston II v Herbrandston II
Neyland II
9
5
2
2
+8
17
-
-
-
-
Letterston
8
4
1
3
+5
13
Manorbier United v Cosheston II
Solva
7
3
1
3
+1
10
Hundleton
7
2
Letterston II
St Florence
8
3
1
4
-1
10
Lawrenny II
1
6
Johnston II
Haverfordwest CC
6
3
1
2
-4
10
St Clears II
5
3
Pembroke Boro II
Pendine
6
3
0
3
+2
9
-
-
-
-
Clarbeston Road II
8
3
0
5
-4
9
-
-
-
-
Pembroke Boro
8
2
1
5
-6
7
-
-
-
-
Kilgetty II
8
2
0
6
-19
6
Pennar Robins II
10
2
0
8
-22
6
DIVISION 5
P
W
D
L
GD
Pts
11
9
2
0
+58
29
Kilgetty II v Haverfordwest CC Lawrenny v St Florence Pendine v Letterston
DIVISION 3
Milford United v St Ishmaels II
DIVISION 4
Monkton Swifts III v N Hedges & Saundersfoot Newport Tigers v Prendergast Villa
DIVISION 5
Narberth II v Milford Athletic II Pembroke Boro II v Johnston II St Clears II v Lawrenny II
DIVISION 4
P
W
D
L
GD
Pts
Hundleton
Camrose II
9
9
0
0
+35
27
St Clears II
10
7
0
3
+20
21
Tenby II
8
7
1
0
+22
22
Pembroke Boro II
10
6
2
2
+24
20
10
6
2
2
+23
20
N H & Sfoot
7
6
0
1
+21
18
Johnston II
Newport Tigers
7
6
0
1
+8
18
Narberth II
9
6
2
1
+12
20
Angle
10
5
0
5
-2
15
Haverfordwest CC II
10
6
1
3
+26
19
7
3
3
1
+13
12
Monkton Swifts III
9
3
0
6
-7
9
Manorbier United
Fishguard Spts II
9
3
0
6
-13
9
Broad Haven II
9
3
1
5
-20
10
St Ishmaels II
8
2
2
4
-5
8
Milford Athletic II
9
3
0
6
-27
9
10
2
1
7
-26
7
Milford United
8
2
1
5
0
7
Lawrenny II
Prendergast Villa
8
2
1
5
-13
7
Herbrandston II
10
2
0
8
-23
6
Carew III
9
1
1
7
-33
4
Letterston II
12
1
2
9
-31
5
3
Cosheston II
7
0
0
7
-49
0
Milford Athletic
8
1
0
7
-13
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Two Wins NEEDED for Euro Brennan Johnson is back! The Cymru national football team is set to receive a significant boost in their bid to qualify for Euro 2024, as Tottenham Hotspur striker Brennan Johnson returns from injury. Johnson, who missed the crucial October victory against Croatia due to a hamstring injury sustained in his first Spurs start, is now back in action, ready to bolster Cymru’s campaign alongside his fellow teammates. Cymru, currently led by manager Robert Page, faced a challenging road in the Euro 2024 qualifiers, marked by early defeats against Armenia and Turkey. However, the tide began to turn with a triumphant victory over Croatia, a result that propelled Cymru to the second spot in Group D, just six points behind leaders Turkey, but with a game in hand. The victory against Croatia has injected renewed hope and enthusiasm into the Cymru squad as they prepare for their upcoming matches. Captain Aaron Ramsey, a key figure in the Cymru lineup, remains absent due to injury, allowing defender Ben Davies to retain the captaincy. Davies, a stalwart in the Cymru defence, will be crucial in guiding the team through their crucial fixtures. Alongside Johnson, midfielder Joe Morrell is also set to make a comeback following his suspension, further strengthening Cymru’s midfield. Adding to the excitement is the inclusion of Sunderland defender Niall Huggins, who receives his debut call-up to the national team. A former Cymru Under-21s international,
Huggins brings youthful energy and determination, offering a fresh perspective to the team’s defensive strategies. Manager Page, who had faced immense pressure after early setbacks in the qualification campaign, has expertly steered the team back on track. The upcoming matches against Armenia in Yerevan on Saturday, 18 November, and Group D leaders Turkey in Cardiff four days later, will be critical for Cymru’s Euro 2024 aspirations. Victory in these fixtures would secure Cymru’s qualification for the European Championships, marking a significant achievement for Cymru football. Football enthusiasts can catch all the action as Cymru takes on Armenia at the Republican Stadium after Vazgen Sargsyan in Yerevan on Saturday, 18 November, with kickoff scheduled for 14:00 GMT. The match will be broadcasted live on Viaplay, S4C, and BBC Radio Wales, providing fans with comprehensive coverage of the game. Additionally, the match highlights will be featured on Match of the Day Wales, airing on BBC One Wales from 22:45 GMT and available on demand.
As the sun sets on the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, the fate of Cymru hangs in the balance, poised on the precipice of either jubilation or heartbreak. The last group stage fixtures beckon, and the dragon-clad nation finds itself in a tight race for a coveted spot in the prestigious European Championships in Germany next summer. While England, led by Gareth Southgate, has already secured their berth with casual assurance, Cymru, along with several other nations, is gearing up for a nerve-wracking showdown in the coming days. In a quick recap, the Euro 2024 qualifiers will determine 20 of the 24 nations participating, alongside hosts Germany and three play-off victors
selected based on their Nations League performances. Eight nations have already stamped their tickets to the finals, standing unassailable in their respective groups. The elite list includes Spain, Scotland, France, England, Turkey, Belgium, Austria, and Portugal. For Cymru, nestled in the intriguing Group D, the battle for qualification rages on with two crucial matches looming on the horizon. As things stand, three teams are vying for the second spot behind the already qualified Turkey. The contenders for this coveted position are Cymru and Croatia, currently level on points. Croatia seems to have a seemingly smoother path, facing off against fifthplaced Latvia and fourth-placed Armenia in their final fixtures. In contrast, Rob
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uro 2024 QUALIFICATION Harry Wilson emerges as main man
Page’s squad faces a stern test against Armenia before confronting group leaders Turkey. Nevertheless, Cymru holds the upper hand in the head-tohead record over Croatia, courtesy of Harry Wilson’s memorable brace in the 2-1 victory in October. The plot thickens with the twist of Armenia lurking just three points behind. A victory for Armenia in both their upcoming matches against Cymru and Croatia could trigger a thrilling threeway tie, with all three teams locked at 13 points. The outcome of this mini-league would hinge on the head-to-head results in the upcoming fixtures. In the hypothetical scenario where Armenia triumphs over both Cymru and Croatia, the standings would see Cymru and Croatia joint-top with four points, and
Armenia trailing with three. The stakes couldn’t be higher, with everything to fight for and a tantalizing prospect of a three-way deadlock. In the midst of this footballing drama, Cymru clings to the hope that two victories in their remaining fixtures will guarantee their passage to Euro 2024. However, if the dragon falls short, the back door route beckons – the playoffs, a lifeline earned through their commendable performances in the Nations League. As the nation collectively holds its breath, the Welsh faithful will be glued to their screens, witnessing a footballing saga unfold, filled with tension, drama, and the unwavering spirit of a nation aspiring to etch its name in the annals of European football glory.
IN THE WAKE of Welsh football icon Gareth Bale’s retirement, a new talisman has emerged to carry the nation’s hopes – Harry Wilson. The 25-year-old winger, who burst onto the international scene a decade ago, is now spearheading Cymru’s quest for Euro 2024 success under the guidance of manager Rob Page. Wilson’s pivotal role was underscored in last month’s remarkable 2-1 victory over World Cup semi-finalists Croatia, where he single-handedly kept Cymru’s dreams of automatic qualification alive with a brace. This stellar performance, precisely a decade after becoming the youngest-ever male player for Cymru at the age of 16, highlighted the winger’s journey from promising youth to seasoned professional. Gareth Bale, the former captain and Cymru’s all-time leading goal scorer with 41 goals, left a significant void upon his retirement in January. Manager Rob Page acknowledged the challenge of filling Bale’s boots, stating, “Because of the players we had available before in Gareth, Joe Allen and Jonny Williams, perhaps he looked at it, and he was turning up and feeling he was a squad player.” However, a summer heart-toheart between Page and Wilson has proven transformative. The manager revealed, “We had a chat with him
in the summer and said: ‘You are no longer that person or player. You are a big player for us. Look at what you are doing at club level’.” This conversation ignited a shift in Wilson’s mentality, propelling him from a perceived squad player to one of Cymru’s main men. Page highlighted the evolution in Wilson’s approach, stating, “Go back about 12 months ago, he would turn up and expect to be part of the squad, or if he started he would be substituted on the hour mark. But the mentality has changed now. He’s playing in the Premier League, scoring goals and creating chances. When he plays for us now he’s one of the main men and showed that in the last game.” Wilson’s recent exploits against Croatia marked his 50th cap, and his two-goal performance took his tally to eight goals for Cymru. The Fulham player, benefiting from stability after various loan spells earlier in his career, is now thriving in the Premier League. Manager Rob Page spoke glowingly of Wilson’s development, stating, “He has stepped up to the plate. I’m so pleased for him because he’s not just a good player, he’s an absolute diamond of a kid.” Page emphasized Wilson’s professionalism, both on and off the pitch, praising the winger’s commitment and work ethic.
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