The Pembrokeshire Herald 18/08/2023

Child sex offences denied

KEVIN OFFLAND, 45, appeared before the Haverfordwest Magistrates Court, facing a range of charges including rape, incitement of a teenage girl to engage in sexual activity, and non-penetrative and penetrative sexual activity with a minor.

Offland, a resident of Nicholas Road, Great Yarmouth, is accused of raping a woman over

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16 in Pembrokeshire in 2014. He is also charged with four counts of intentionally touching an underage teenage girl in a non-penetrative sexual manner, alleged to have taken place between 2020 and 2022.

Furthermore, Offland is facing a count of penetrative sexual touching of an underage

teen, alleged to have occurred between 2016 and 2017. He is also accused of inciting an underage teenage girl to engage in sexual activity, allegedly taking place between November 2016 and November 2017. All charges are said to have taken place in Pembrokeshire.

During the court appearance, Offland refrained from entering a plea. The case has

Assault on emergency worker

been scheduled for trial, and Offland has been remanded in custody until the upcoming hearing at Swansea Crown Court next month.

Blount guilty of child sexual assault

MILFORD HAVEN

resident, Wendy Case, of Chestnut Way, Mount Estate, has pleaded guilty to the assault of PC 277 Evans, an emergency worker, in a case that has garnered significant attention.

The incident occurred on July 10 at Case’s Milford Haven residence. According to court documents, she assaulted PC 277 Evans by beating him while he was in the exercise of his functions.

GARY BLOUNT, a 44-year-old man from Whitland previously employed as a doorman and sound engineer in Tenby, has been unanimously found guilty by a jury on two charges of child sexual assault.

The incidents, involving a child aged five or six, occurred between 2014 and October 2016. Blount had denied both charges, which were related to the same victim.

The trial, held at

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Swansea Crown Court, lasted three days.

Despite being on bail during the proceedings, Blount is now in custody awaiting sentencing.

The court was informed of Blount’s concerning criminal history.

In 2018, he had been convicted after admitting to sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl and inducing her into similar

acts.

These offences were committed between September and October 2016.

The current allegations were brought to light last year when the young victim confided in a school counsellor.

Prosecutor Ian Wright shared that the child later informed her mother, expressing remorse for not speaking up sooner.

She described feeling “uncomfortable” with Blount’s advances, but he

had told her such actions were “normal”.

On July 8, 2022, the victim provided her account to the police, detailing the inappropriate contact. Blount was subsequently arrested and charged when he visited Haverfordwest Police Station the next day.

Judge Geraint Walters has scheduled Blount’s sentencing for Monday, September 18, following the preparation of a presentence report.

Case’s actions were found contrary to section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 and section 1 of the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018. The case was heard at the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court where she was represented by TOM LLOYD DGJ Solicitors, and the

prosecution was led by Sian Vaughan from CPS Wales (South West). In light of her guilty plea on 15th August 2023, the court ordered Case to pay a fine of £40, which was determined based on the punitive element of the community order. Additionally, she has been ordered to pay a surcharge of £114 and compensation of £50. Court costs amounting to £85 were also levied against her. To settle these amounts, a deduction will be made from her benefits at an instalment rate of £24 monthly, starting from 12th September 2023. Furthermore, Case has been given a community order, supervised by the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, which will remain in effect until 14th August 2024.

£25 cot saves toddler, dad badly hurt

season.”

Two quick-thinking surgeons present on the campsite provided medical assistance until emergency services arrived. The hospitalised Staniforth underwent surgery for pelvic and internal injuries. At present, his family, who operate a catering supply enterprise in Cardiff, remain by his side. The accident also resulted in eight other individuals being hospitalised in Haverfordwest, Carmarthen, and Swansea, with three still under medical care.

DAN STANIFORTH sustained life-changing injuries when a Ford Fiesta ploughed into his family’s tent. Miraculously, his soonto-be three-year-old son Sonny emerged unscathed, protected by his £25 travel cot.

Dan was enjoying an evening with friends at the campsite in west Wales, with young Sonny asleep just a few feet away in the family tent. The speeding Fiesta became airborne, completely flattening the tent. It was only the travel cot that shielded Sonny from the devastation.

While the toddler was spared, 44-year-old Dan, a keen surfer, wasn’t so fortunate. He suffered severe crush injuries and was urgently airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales. Currently, he is described as being in a “serious” condition. Meanwhile, his partner, Emma Lou Lewis, underwent treatment for an arm injury before being discharged.

The heart-stopping event happened on

Saturday night at the bustling Newgale campsite in Pembrokeshire.

Campsite owner Mike Harris described the horror: “The car literally entered the campsite, toppled over the tent and ended up atop a family. Our immediate concern was the baby in the tent. It’s a miracle the cot protected him.”

Fern Wilson, a fellow camper, recalled the chaos: “A lot of young individuals were in the car.

The panic was palpable with girls shrieking in shock. Thankfully, many people, including first aiders and a nurse, jumped in to assist.”

Peter Morgan, local councillor for Newgale, commented: “Given the car’s speed, it’s astonishing no one lost their life. The campsite’s fortune in having two surgeons and other medical professionals on site likely saved additional lives. It’s a highly regarded campsite, particularly popular with families and surfers around this

Local authorities are diligently investigating the accident, which took place around 10:30 pm. They’ve also appealed for dashcam footage of the Fiesta, seen on the A487 between Haverfordwest and St Davids. Residents allege that the car, which sped at 80mph in a 30mph zone, had seven occupants and that the driver had only obtained his driving licence in June. Eyewitnesses claim that three passengers fled the scene post-crash, abandoning the trapped driver. Harris has since handed over campsite CCTV footage of the incident to the police.

Happier times: Dan and family

Flowers for the injured: Newgale Campsite

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Panic in Newgale as car lands on campsite

THE TRANQUIL atmosphere of Newgale Campsite abruptly disrupted last night (Aug 12) as a car crashed into the premises, causing ‘screaming and panic’ amongst patrons. Witnesses at the location recounted the stark image of a blue Ford Fiesta lying sideways amidst the campsite.

The car was travelling in the direction from Haverfordwest to St Davids on the A477 when he lost control in a 30mph zone. Early evidence from the scene hints at high speed being a significant factor in the incident. Specialist officers are onsite, working to determine the accident’s precise cause.

The magnitude of the incident saw an immediate and substantial response from emergency services. Teams from the police, ambulance, fire brigade, coastguard, and a rescue helicopter were all dispatched promptly. The Welsh Ambulance Service’s response was notably comprehensive, as they detailed: “We engaged six emergency ambulances, one duty operations manager, one Cymru high acuity response unit. Additionally, our personnel were aided by the emergency medical and retrieval transfer service and a search and rescue helicopter.”

Six of the casualties were swiftly taken to hospitals across Wales. One critically injured individual was airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, while four others were rushed to Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen. Another casualty was transported to Swansea’s Morriston Hospital. Details regarding the extent of their injuries are still forthcoming.

HM Coastguard in Broad Haven said: “The team were paged at 11.23pm last night to assist with multi-agency incident in Newgale.

“We organised a helicopter site and supported paramedics

with casualty care.”

Campsite owner Mike Harris said that there were around 15 emergency vehicles in attendance and that he believed nine people had been injured in total. He said: “There are no fatalities and from what I understand none of the injuries are life-threatening but I would say some are certainly life changing.”

He said that the vehicle appeared to hit an area where a group of people from several tents had gathered outside their tents to socialise.

He said: “It happened at 10:38pm, I had left the campsite four minutes earlier and didn’t hear or see anything.

“My staff heard the screaming and informed me immediately while they called the emergency services.

“I think they first thought there would have been fatalities and that’s why there were so many emergency vehicles here.

“I think one baby was saved purely by the fact it was in a cot.”

The A487, which passes through Newgale, was temporarily sealed for investigations but was reopened by 10 am on Sunday, Aug 13. Newgale

Campsite, in spite of the night’s tragic events, continues its operations.

CONCERNS ON HOSPITAL DOWNGRADE

Audrey Thomas, from the ‘Save Withybush Campaign’, expressed deep concerns about local hospital services. She voiced worries about the recent downgrades, stating, “This distressing incident emphasises the pivotal need for a LOCAL hospital.” Thomas further emphasised the risks posed by removing essential community services, urging decisionmakers to consider the broader community’s safety.

POLICE STATEMENT

The police released a statement on Sunday saying: “We are appealing for witnesses or information following a serious collision, which saw a car crash off the A487 and into a campsite in Pembrokeshire last night (Saturday, 12 August).

“At shortly after 10.30pm several calls were made to emergency

services reporting the onecar collision at Newgale Campsite.

“The blue Ford Fiesta, which contained a number of occupants, is believed to have been travelling from the direction of Roch in the St Davids direction when it lost control and veered off the road.

“It crashed into the campsite, colliding with

a number of people and a tent, injuring nine, including passengers in the car.

“The injuries sustained by two of them are described as serious. They remain in hospital at this time.

“The road was closed to allow investigations and reopened at around 7.45am today.

“Officers are appealing for any information regarding the vehicle, a blue Ford Fiesta, and its occupants.

“We are especially interested in any dashcam footage or doorbell footage which may have captured the vehicle being driven from Roch to the scene of the collision at Newgale.”

Withybush: Board declares ‘major incident’

Three inpatient wards close • Outpatient services curtailed

HYWEL DDA UNIVERSITY HEALTH

BOARD declared an internal major incident at Withybush Hospital on Tuesday, August 15.

The Board’s move follows recent surveys to establish the use of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in the hospital building.

RAAC is a material that was commonly used in the construction of buildings between the 1960s and 1990s.

The Herald reported on the likely issues three weeks ago, and the Board’s announcement confirms our analysis of the likely impact on health services at Withybush.

CONSTRUCTION ISSUES WELL-KNOWN

The survey process began in May. As it progressed, the scale of the problem became clear. However, it should not have come as a surprise to the Board.

Withybush’s principal construction is concrete panel and plank. The panels form the walls, and the planks support the panels. Due to several significant design flaws dating to its original construction, Withybush has chronic roof problems. Those problems are additional to the fact Withybush’s fabric is beyond the end of its predicted service life.

The thenPembrokeshire Health Authority’s Estates Directorate carried out surveys of Withybush between 1989 and 1991. Those surveys predicted end-of-life within 20-25 years due to the inferior materials used in its construction and the cost of maintaining the building.

The UK’s Standing Committee on Structural Safety reported risks associated with aerated concrete in

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2019. The product is still manufactured and installed worldwide.

It can be an appropriate construction material if properly designed, manufactured, installed, and maintained.

Professor

Chris Goodier, a Materials Scientist from Loughborough University, said: “It is RAAC from the 1950s, 60s and 70s that is of main concern, especially if it has not been adequately maintained.

RAAC examples have been found with bearings (supports) that aren’t big enough and RAAC with the steel reinforcement in the wrong place, which can have structural implications. Prolonged water ingress (not uncommon on old flat roofs) can also lead to deterioration.”

THREE WARDS CLOSED

The Health Board’s statement reads: “To date, three wards

in Withybush have needed to close due to the condition of the RAAC planks found, with the situation being managed and patients relocated to other health board locations in Pembrokeshire.

“We intend to manage as much of the relocation of patients within Pembrokeshire as possible.

“While best efforts are being made to conduct survey work as quickly as possible, the resulting findings of the survey work is, in some cases, requiring patients to be moved from wards to alternative locations and adapting services to reflect the site’s availability.

“As time progresses, this will likely affect other health board services at other sites as we move patients and services to alternate locations. Local mitigations, including structural props and temporary closure of impacted areas, are also being implemented.

“Unless notified otherwise, patients should continue to attend

their appointments and access services at Withybush Hospital as usual. However, this may be subject to change at short notice.

“Wherever possible, patients will be communicated with directly should a change be made to the service or clinic they are due to attend. Further information will be available on the health board website at www.hduhb.nhs.wales/ RAAC”.

WELSH GOVERNMENT MUST STEP IN

As the Board casts around for excuses to strip services away from Withybush, the discovery of major safety issues with its construction could not be more opportune.

A consultation on children’s services (“temporarily” removed in stages over the last seven years) is ongoing.

Preseli Pembrokeshire Senedd Member Paul Davies said: “It’s critically important that survey

MS added: “All aspects of health are devolved in Wales, including hospital maintenance. Moving patients around the health board is only going to increase waiting times.

“With the problem expected to be more severe than outlined, Labour must invest in our hospitals that have been neglected and left in the last century - Welsh NHS is stuck in the past with no digital prescriptions, no NHS app, and still using fax machines.”

“NHS CRUMBLING BEFORE OUR EYES”

work is done quickly. I hope Hywel Dda University Health Board is doing everything possible to ensure that happens.

“The Welsh Government also has an important role to play in supporting the Health Board and ensuring it has the support and resources it needs to understand the scale of the problem - and to ensure remedial work takes place as quickly and safely as possible so that patients can continue accessing services at Withybush hospital.

“Given the seriousness of the situation and its impact on the delivery of services in Pembrokeshire, I will be writing to the Health Minister to ensure the Welsh Government provides the Health Board with the support that it will need.

“Remedial work needs to take place as soon as possible so that services continue at Withybush hospital.”

Shadow Health Minister Russell George

Plaid Cymru spokesperson for health and care, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, said: “Two decades of underinvestment from Labour, and nearly 14 years of underfunding from Westminster and the NHS in Wales is now literally crumbling in front of our eyes.

“We’ve known for a long time that our NHS in Wales is at breaking point, and something has to give.

“There have been long-standing problems with patient flow through hospitals, more and more patients being added to waiting lists, and over the last 12 months, hardworking staff have taken to picket lines over pay and conditions. And now a reminder that the buildings themselves are also vulnerable to pressure.

“This is not the first warning that Labour Welsh Government have had that buildings are not up to scratch. Back in January, we learnt that only 62% of buildings owned by Betsi Cadwaladr UHB are operationally safe.

“Yes, Welsh Government’s hands are tied by Westminster, but let’s not forget that this has happened on their watch.”

A-Level top grades in Wales

RESULTS released recently reveal a decrease in top A-level grades in Wales for the second consecutive year. However, the results still indicate a higher pass rate than prepandemic levels.

In 2020 and 2021, grades were conferred based on teacher assessments owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. In stark contrast, this year witnessed 34% of students receiving A and A* grades, a drop from 40.9% in 2022. Additionally, a noticeable 13.5% achieved the highest A* grade, a reduction from 17.1% in 2022, but still up from 8.9% in 2019.

The results this year find themselves broadly in between those of 2019, the last pre-pandemic year, and 2022, the first post-pandemic year with formal exams, as noted by the Welsh Government.

AS grades also painted a similar picture with 25.5% achieving grade A and an overwhelming 90.9% landing between

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grades A and E. In the Welsh Baccalaureate, 6.2% secured an A* in the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate, 25.2% received grades between A* and A, and 96.4% achieved between A* and E.

As students collected their results, WJEC, Wales’ predominant awarding body, advised students, “Stay relaxed and keep things in perspective. Remember that there are numerous options and pathways available to you, irrespective of your grades.”

The Qualifications Wales spokesperson provided reassurance, suggesting students immediately consult with teachers or lecturers if results were unexpected. For details regarding the appeals process, students can visit qualificationswales.org.

The Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, lauded students and acknowledged

the challenges they’ve faced. He emphasised, “For those unsure of next steps or if results were not as hoped, don’t be too hard on yourself. There are numerous options, including university clearing, apprenticeships, or even starting your own venture.” The minister also recommended Careers Wales for guidance and encouraged students to utilise the Young Person’s Guarantee for various opportunities.

Laura Anne Jones MS, the Welsh Conservative shadow education minister, congratulated students, highlighting their remarkable resilience amidst disruptions like curriculum changes, funding issues, and pandemic pressures. She optimistically remarked, “The world is your oyster.”

Today’s results will invariably shape the next steps for many young Welsh students, with a plethora of opportunities awaiting them, regardless of the grade on their paper.

Madeleine Draycott (Image: Pembrokeshire College)

Students from Yosgol Harri Turdor

experience second year dip

Cerys Bevan and Alysha-Leigh Clarkson (Image: Ysgol Dyffryn Taf)

Isaac Miller (Image: Ysgol Dyffryn Taf)

Ebony Rosemeyer and Mya Elliott (Image: Ysgol Dyffryn Taf)

Wil Carpenter (Image: Ysgol Dyffryn Taf)

Ysgol Bro Preseli pupils collecting their A-level results. (Image: Ysgol Bro Preseli)

Violent attack filmed by doorbell camera

AT Swansea Crown Court this week Mark Hambrook, aged 38, residing in Waterloo Square, Hakin, Milford Haven pleaded guilty to the charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The incident unfolded on the night of July 29-30 at his partner’s residence in Hakin.

Prosecutor Thomas Scapens detailed the events that transpired that night.

Hambrook was under the influence of alcohol when his partner returned home. Without hesitation, he swiftly opened the door and immediately subjected her to a physical assault. He forcefully grabbed her head and forcefully slammed it against the wall before continuing to strike her. The prosecution revealed that at one point during the altercation, Hambrook’s

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hand was observed to be covered in blood.

Although the complainant did not actively support the prosecution and refrained from detailing the injuries sustained during the attack, the court proceeded with the case due to the availability of conclusive evidence. The incident had been recorded by a neighbouring property’s doorbell camera.

Recorder David Harris addressed the defendant’s history of violence and its impact on the complainant.

Hambrook had prior convictions for violent offences, including violence against a former partner. The court noted that fear might have been a substantial reason for the complainant’s

reluctance to engage with the prosecution.

During the mitigation phase, Mr. Lewingdon, representing Hambrook, acknowledged the defendant’s remorse for his actions. The defendant expressed embarrassment upon viewing the video footage of the incident and displayed a realistic understanding of the impending sentence. Mr. Lewingdon acknowledged that the threshold for a custodial sentence had been exceeded due to the severity of the assault, describing it as “sickening.”

Recorder Harris, addressing Hambrook directly, expressed his concern about the authenticity of the defendant’s remorse, particularly in light of the pre-sentence report’s contents. The report indicated that Hambrook

had attributed blame to the victim for his violent reaction.

In light of the evidence presented and the severity of the assault, Hambrook was sentenced to 20 months of imprisonment. The court did not

receive an application for a restraining order, although Recorder Harris stated that had such an application been made, it would have been inevitable.

The case highlighted the gravity of domestic

violence and the role of technology in capturing critical evidence. The court’s decision reflects its commitment to addressing violence within intimate relationships and ensuring justice for victims of such incidents.

Jailed for over 17 years for child abuse offences

DOMINIC DEWICK, 45, from Harrier Road in Haverfordwest, was sentenced to 17 and a half years behind bars after being convicted of 20 counts of historical abuse against two girls spanning from 1993 to 2017. The verdicts, unanimous on all charges, were delivered by the jury on August 5 after a four-day trial.

The court was informed that the abuse began when one victim was just seven, continuing until she reached 15. The second girl experienced the abuse from age nine to 12. Despite the weight of the evidence, Dewick vehemently denied the charges, insisting the victims had concocted their testimonies.

Nicola Powell, who led the prosecution, remarked in court, “He is a man in sheer denial. He thought he’d escaped his actions, but the past has now caught up.”

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One of the survivors, during the sentencing, shared her heartwrenching testimony:

“The abuse has left me shattered, both mentally and emotionally. I was just a vulnerable child. His actions have had a profound impact on me.” She went on to share

Criminal damage trial date set

PEMBROKE DOCK resident, Ashliegh Mardon, stood before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court yesterday on charges of criminal damage to property valued under £5,000.

Mardon, residing at 29 Clarence Street, Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire, has been accused of causing damage, without lawful excuse, to three tyres of a vehicle belonging to Lewis Laville on 28th May

2023 at Kavanagh Court, Pembroke Dock. The damage is allegedly in contravention of sections 1(1) and 4 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971, with intent to destroy or damage the property or being reckless towards the possible outcome.

Pleading not guilty on 4th July 2023, Mardon has been remanded on conditional bail. One of the bail conditions stipulated is to prevent interference with witnesses or obstruction of the course

of justice. Specifically, the defendant has been instructed not to contact Mr. Lewis Laville, either directly or indirectly.

The case, prosecuted by Sian Vaughan, was presided over by Mrs. H Roberts Magistrate, Mr. A Smith Magistrate, and Mrs. M Smith Magistrate. Mike Kelleher from Welch and Co represented Mardon.

Mardon is expected to attend the next hearing, which is scheduled for 16th August 2023

In court over drug-driving charge

RICHARD INNES of Brynhyfryd, Stop and Call, Goodick, has appeared before the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on allegations of drugdriving, a serious breach of the Road Traffic Act.

Mr. Innes, born 1984, was charged with driving a motor vehicle while having a proportion of a specified controlled drug, namely Benzoylecgonine, above the permissible limit.

The alleged offence took place on Thursday, March 16, when he reportedly drove his Hyundai Getz on the A487 Penycwm, Haverfordwest.

The court documents specify that the proportion of Benzoylecgonine found in Mr. Innes’s blood was 92 ug/L, an amount that exceeds the specified limit as per section 5A(1)(a) and

(2) of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and Schedule 2 to the Road Traffic Offenders

Act 1988.

The initial hearing took place on August 15 at the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court. Defending was Tom Lloyd of DGJ Solicitors. The prosecution was led by Ms. Sian Vaughan, while the bench comprised Mr. A Smith, Mrs. H Roberts, and Mrs. M Smith as magistrates. However, the plea hearing has been adjourned to August 22.

the lasting trauma she experiences, including nightmares and constant anxiety.

James Hartson, defending Dewick, admitted to the limited

defensive arguments available, pointing only to Dewick’s lack of prior convictions. However, Judge Paul Thomas retorted that this was overshadowed by

Dewick’s lengthy period of criminal activity.

In delivering the sentence, Judge Thomas pointedly said, “For a span of 24 years, from your teenage years to adulthood, you targeted and harmed young girls. The psychological scars you’ve inflicted on these now grown women are immeasurable.”

Breaking down the sentence, Dewick received four years for the abuse of the first victim and 13 and a half years for the second. He is mandated to serve at least two-thirds of this sentence before being eligible for release on licence, which will be followed by an additional two-year extended licence period.

Furthermore, an indefinite sexual harm prevention order has been issued against Dewick, and he is required to register as a sex offender for life.

Plaid say cuts nothing to do with them

AS THE Welsh Government stares down the barrel of making massive in-year savings, Plaid Cymru is distancing itself from cuts to public services.

Last week, The Herald examined the Welsh Government’s choices and the potential impact on the Cooperation Agreement between Labour and Plaid.

In response to our query about what input Plaid would have into the cuts and whether cuts would jeopardise the Cooperation Agreement, a spokesperson suggested Labour must carry the cuts’ burden on its own.

They told us: “Whilst Plaid Cymru will always want to facilitate the delivery of the Agreement in the most efficient and effective way possible, the elements within it amount to around 1% or less of the Welsh government revenue budget.

“It is for the Labour Welsh government to prioritise its budget from the remaining 99% under its control.”

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“GROWN UP GOVERNMENT” CLAIM IN TATTERS

Both Plaid and Labour have trumpeted the Cooperation Agreement as an example of “grown-up” politics and contrasted it with the Westminster bearpit. Taking Welsh Government press releases at face value, the Cooperation Agreement is responsible for a host of “good things” delivered by parties working in partnership.

It is unpopular among some Labour backbenchers, who feel it lets Plaid claim the credit for policies the Welsh Labour Government would’ve pursued without Plaid’s input. Some Welsh frontbenchers previously displaced from photo-ops by Adam Price’s sharp elbows are also dubious about its benefits.

Plaid’s comment regarding almost certain cuts to frontline public services suggests the

Agreement has received disproportionate attention and is of minor importance to the Welsh Government’s programme. The attention Labour and Plaid have given to it suggests a self-serving spin regarding it.

PLAID SAY WG MUST “TAKE RESPONSIBILITY”

Responding to the First Minister’s announcement of in-year cuts, Plaid Cymru spokesperson for Finance, Peredur Owen Griffiths MS, said: “There is no doubt that we are experiencing a particularly challenging economic context, but the Welsh Government would be in a stronger position if they stopped defending the unjust devolution settlement which leaves Wales with so little control over how we raise and spend money. Without the economic and fiscal levers, Wales will always be at the mercy of Westminster.

“Where the Welsh Government does have control - over their processes and how they communicate their decisions

to the organisations they fund – decisive action will be critical now.

“There is too much uncertainty over what happens next – in terms of funding lines - and how much scrutiny we will have over these cuts in-year and in the next budget.

“We already know that the budget will be late for the fifth consecutive year, which impacts the time available for full scrutiny.

“When you curtail scrutiny, you do a disservice to the Senedd and the Welsh public.

“The Labour Welsh Government should stop laying all the blame at Westminster’s door and take some responsibility for their own processes.”

PLAID IN IT FOR “THE EASY WINS”

A Labour backbencher who is no fan of the Cooperation Agreement but declined to comment directly on it told The Herald: “Typical of Plaid. In it for the easy wins. Never there when there’s hard choices.”

Carmarthen

said: “What we see from Plaid Cymru is a classic abdication of duty and muddying of the waters. They’ve basically thrown their hands up and said ‘not our problem’ yet

continue to take credit for the Cooperation Agreement. “In a week when even Welsh Labour backbench Senedd Members are identifying areas where their government can reduce spending, it is surprising that Plaid, can’t, or aren’t, willing to do the same.”

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West and South Pembrokeshire Member of the Senedd, Samuel Kurtz,

Sam Kurtz: Local MS says Plaid “abdicating duty”

Classic BMW 3 series erupts in flames

MIKE EDWARDS

SOMETIMES the small things in life give you the most pleasure.

At least, that’s what my beloved tells me. And who am I to contradict the words of a good-natured liar?

The question came up in the context of, of all things, a classic car.

My wife’s coconspirator and best friend, Enfys Pritchard, is very proud of her Mini. You’d expect something of that age to be battered and clapped out. But, no. Enfys has kept it in pristine condition: buffed, waxed, and only allowed out on special occasions. Her Mini draws admiring glances from all who see it.

The local classic car show was last weekend, and Enfys was keen to give her Mini a public airing.

3 Series became the unexpected spectacle of the evening after it caught fire near Cresswell Quay, Pembrokeshire. Locals and visitors at a nearby pub were left astounded as plumes of black smoke obscured the setting sun, initially puzzling them about the source of the commotion.

The scene unfolded on a very warm and sunny Wednesday evening (Aug 16) when onlookers were first alerted by a growing column of smoke behind the trees. As the smoke grew thicker and darker, intermittent pops, bangs, and even an explosion was heard.

It wasn’t long before the blazing silhouette of the classic car was revealed as cause of the incident.

Quick thinking locals called for help, and a tractor was later employed to clear the charred remains of the once-beautiful vehicle. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident.

Pete Sharpe, an eyewitness who managed to capture the dramatic scene on camera, described the event: “Cresswell

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Quay was serene until that unsettling sight. The increasing dark smoke at one point

even blocked out the sun. The popping sounds, followed by an explosion, made it all too clear: someone’s prized BMW 3 Series had met a tragic end.” Spectators from the

Unfortunately for Enfys, she had been in a minor accident that prevented her from attending.

As I understood things from the wife, Enfys had fallen off a swing and hurt her coccyx. I was baffled by this and wondered aloud what on earth Enfys was doing in the children’s play area. The wife rewarded my question with a withering look and a shake of the head.

Despite her injury, Enfys still wanted her Mini presented at the show. The missus said we would take it.

Driving to the showground, I realised how big modern cars are compared to their older counterparts. A modern Mini swept past us in a line of traffic. It was about twice the size of Enfys’s pokey little number.

I also realised just how god-awful older cars are. The fog of memory and nostalgia glosses over the

multitudinous shortcomings of old motors. Yes, the old Mini seemed nippy and gave the impression of supple responsiveness to the slightest touch on the steering wheel. I was, however, aware that the missus and I would be so much minced meat if another car hit us. With no airbags or reinforced panels, a head-on collision would intimately entwine our knees with the engine block. And the noise. Jesus. The noise. We needed ear defenders. The outside traffic bellowed while the little engine whirred and chugged, while the gearbox crunched in protest at every missed gear. We felt every bump in the road on our short journey.

When I got out and looked around, I realised we were underdressed to the tune of one flat cap each.

I momentarily thought I’d taken a wrong turn and ended up at a whippet race. The assault of the aroma of Turtle Wax and leather polish soon disabused me.

I remember Triumph Heralds, Ford Anglias, Morris Minors and such from when I was younger. They never resembled the polished and gleaming examples displayed at the car show. They were cars to be used daily. Body panels were poorly fitted, and gearboxes were made from rubber bands. They made up for what they lacked in power with a total absence of safety features.

However, compared with their anonymous beige and bloated successors, they look magnificent. From the outside, even Enfys’s Mini looked like a decent ride. I said so to the wife. She rewarded me with another withering look and a shake of the head.

pub watched with a mix of shock and sympathy, empathizing with the owner.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

AN ICONIC BMW

Drone show’s second cancellation leaves locals fuming

A HIGHLY anticipated drone display in Tenby has left locals and visitors disappointed not once, but twice. Initially planned for August 1, the 100-drone showcase, organised by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to capture content for its “Respect the Range” campaign, was postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions.

Hopes were high for its rescheduled performance on August 16, but it was subsequently cancelled without a public viewing.

In a surprising move, the MOD decided to conduct the drone show in the early hours of Wednesday morning, away from the watchful eyes of the expectant crowd. The MOD’s statement mentioned their

gratitude to the Tenby community for its support of their campaign but failed to quell the frustration felt

by many.

Social media is awash with reactions, ranging from confusion to outright anger. Sam Macro, an individual from the community, voiced his

concerns, saying, “This drone display has been such a shambles that I have lost respect for the MOD, despite the Respect the Range Campaign. Let’s hope the MOD

doesn’t have to plan a war.” Nina GoldsworthyGriffiths expressed her disbelief, stating, “I am speechless that this has happened. How ridiculous for the people who were

looking forward to it. Not impressed.”

Natalie Thomas showed her annoyance with a sarcastic comment, “Change of plan tonight then.” Meanwhile, Laura Jayne Davies, clearly upset, shared that her friend Jess Rae was fuming over the decision, and David Woolnough mentioned his personal disappointment, remarking, “Shame, I was looking forward to that.”

While the MOD’s intent to promote safety on military lands is commendable, their execution in Tenby might have missed the mark. The local community and media will no doubt continue their quest for answers regarding the puzzling decision to deprive the public of a much-anticipated spectacle.

Successful prosecution brought against owners of NRJ Motor Company Ltd

CARMARTHENSHIRE

COUNTY COUNCIL’S Trading Standards team have successfully pursued a prosecution against the officers of NRJ Motor Company for mis-selling a car as being in an ‘excellent condition’, when in fact it was in a dangerous and unroadworthy state.

On 22 June 2023

David Bonner-Evans, Susan Bonner-Evans and James BonnerEvans pleaded guilty to engaging in a commercial practice which was misleading, contrary to regulations 9 and 13 of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 and supplying a product which they knew or should have known to be dangerous, contrary to regulations 8(1)(a) and 20(1) of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

In May 2022, a 22-yearold student, purchased a Fiat Punto from NRJ Motor Company. The Fiat Punto was advertised as being ‘very well maintained’ and would include a ‘brand new service’. The advert claimed that NRJ Motor

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Company was an ‘AA Trusted dealership’ and a ‘family business with over 40 years’ experience’.

It also stated that the vehicle had last received an MOT on 19 December 2021, had been serviced in February 2022 and was described as being in an ‘excellent condition’.

An additional advert on the car reiterated that the vehicle had a ‘brand new service’, ‘free warranty’

and ‘one year’s AA breakdown cover’.

Before purchasing the car and having taken the vehicle for a test drive, the customer was informed by the salesman, who identified himself as the owner of the company, that the car was in ‘excellent condition’ and said that it had only one owner and was very well maintained. He had said that the car had relatively very low mileage, was cheap to

tax and excellent on fuel. The co-owner of the business told her that the car had a current MOT and service, and these documents were in the car.

However, in the first week of June 2022, it became apparent that the car had significant problems. The airbag warning light on the dashboard had come on and the motor of the window on the driver’s side had failed and the

back wheel kept deflating every few days.

NRJ Motor Company agreed to take the car in for repairs, with the window being repaired, and the business stating that there was nothing wrong with the airbag, but the warning light remained on.

On 8 July 2022, the tyre on the back passenger side of the car burst whilst the vehicle was being driven. On 11 July, having replaced the tyre, the young student heard a very loud clanging noise whilst driving. On inspecting the car, her father noticed that there was a serious problem with the rear passenger wheel and told her not to drive the car.

Despite the 1-year warranty on the car, David Bonner-Evans of NRJ Motor Company refused to collect the car or rectify the problems.

The student and her parents then contacted Carmarthenshire County Council’s Trading Standards Team, who appointed an expert to inspect the car. A detailed examination revealed a particularly serious fault with a corroded rear axle, making the vehicle

not only unroadworthy but dangerous.

The judge stressed the offence was extremely serious and could have caused an extremely serious accident.

A number of additional problems that would render the vehicle unroadworthy and attract failure notices during an MOT were also found.

Following the guilty plea, David BonnerEvans, Susan BonnerEvans and James Bonner-Evans were sentenced to a fine of £1500 each, costs in total of £6678.60 with one third to pay each, £1760.75 compensation to the victim, and £150 surcharge.

Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen, Cabinet Lead for Trading Standards said:

“The outcome of this case could have been tragic as the vehicle that was sold to the victim by David Bonner-Evans, Susan Bonner-Evans and James BonnerEvans was not fit to be on the road.

“I would like to thank our Trading Standards Team for holding these people to account and bringing them to justice.”

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Bluestone Academy makes a positive impact on local education

PEMBROKESHIRE’S

Bluestone National Park Resort has continued over the past academic year to inspire and help educate local young people and students about the importance of tourism to the region through its Bluestone Academy.

Building on its work with local schools and colleges, the Bluestone Academy says it plans to make an even bigger impact in supporting educational establishments and the tourism and hospitality sector during the next year.

The Academy was set up by Bluestone in 2021 to highlight and support people of all ages to pursue long-term careers in the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

Helen John, Academy Manager, said: “The Bluestone Academy is devoted to shaping and supporting the future of the area’s tourism sector by inspiring students. Our goal is not only to support the learning journey but also to provide learners with a broader perspective on career possibilities.

“Over the past academic year, we’ve been actively involved in many careers events, educational programmes and projects, in addition to supporting interns and apprentices.

“As we head towards another academic year we’re aiming to build on what we’ve achieved to date to inspire the next generation into working and living in the area with good career opportunities.”

The Academy’s engagement with local schools, including Haverfordwest High School and Pembrokeshire College, is already making a difference. Activities such as career talks, cookery masterclasses, and food demonstrations

helped showcase the diverse opportunities within the hospitality and tourism sectors.

The Academy’s involvement in the 2B Enterprising project with Templeton Primary School also demonstrates its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial skills from a young age. This year marks the second year of the Academy’s collaboration with the project, strengthening the bond between education and enterprise.

The Academy appointed Neil Hillary as its Ambassador last year.

Neil, who was previously Bluestone’s Head of Food and Beverage, is working with community groups, schools and colleges throughout the area to deliver outreach programmes promoting high-quality courses, training and work placements within the industry.

Neil said: “The Bluestone Academy aims to extend its support beyond classrooms by providing work placements and other opportunities. Pupils from institutions like Pembrokeshire College gain firsthand experience at Bluestone National Park Resort, contributing to their skill development and career preparation.

“The Academy’s apprenticeship programme is also creating an avenue for young individuals to acquire essential skills and training, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.”

…/2

An example of the Academy’s impact is the Life Skills Academy supported internship scheme. Young individuals aged 19 to 22 are placed in various Bluestone’s departments, including IT, Food and Beverage, Retail, and Housekeeping.

Helen said: “These interns contribute

significantly to our teams, gaining invaluable experience that will undoubtedly shape their future employability.”

Dr Barry Walters, Principal of Pembrokeshire College said: “I am extremely pleased with the professional relationship that is being developed between Pembrokeshire College and Bluestone. The supported internship programme offers a real opportunity for young people to progress into the workplace.”

The Academy’s commitment to inclusivity is evident through its support for interns with additional learning needs (ALN). This not only benefits the interns but also Bluestone’s ongoing commitment to an accessible and diverse workforce.

The Academy’s training and development programmes have been instrumental in benefiting the resort’s 800 employees, who are able to pursue careers all year-round rather than just during peak seasons.

The Future Leaders programme, which imparts comprehensive training to 16 candidates, highlights Bluestone’s commitment to nurturing its own talent pool by fostering a culture of leadership. Eight employees have already been promoted through the programme.

Looking ahead, the Academy aims to continue to contribute positively to local education and economic growth. As students return to school or college after the summer holidays in September, the Academy’s impact will continue to inspire learners and shape their futures.

More information about careers at Bluestone National Park Resort can be found at www.bluestonewales. com.

Fat Freddies the story so far

It’s been difficult finding time to source content for this project . Partly because I’m the type of person that isn’t ever really completely satisfied with my work. If I take a picture of a dish I always find myself tweaking with filters and editing apps before admitting to myself I don’t like it. I may not like the lighting, the background, the colours or the general presentation. It’s difficult to capture flavour on camera. Yet people do eat with their eyes. I do the same with recipes although sometimes the simplest tweak or adjustment of an ingredient can elevate a dish from mediocre to mouth watering.

The main reason I’ve struggled with time is because fat freddies has hit the ground hard. We’ve been blown away by the sheer volume of orders we receive. My time is swallowed up from the moment I open my eyes until the moment I close them. I’ll explain.

I’ve been a chef for 20 years. I’ve worked in a number of different establishments from the coast, country and towns. The last 10 of those years were spent at the Bristol Trader under Brian Harries and Margaret Slater Harries. In the last year for Dan Mils who had taken on the Bristol Trader as his own.

Most of my time has been spent working as a pub chef with an idea that nothing should be bought ready made. A chefs recipe is their personality and the energy and enthusiasm received from development to plate is what I lived for. I am neurotic about details so often dishes may never reach the completion. I have so many full notepads (I’m old school. I prefer the pen and paper) of recipes that are incomplete and maybe half a notepad of recipes that are my victories.

Most of working as a chef in a restaurant is structured, routine and organised. Every day is the same and apart

from small changes like staff training or menu changes you really can slot nicely into a pleasant routine.

Fat Freddies is not that.

All of my experience and knowledge has only helped me the smallest amount. I guess I was over confident that I’d been around the block and ignorant of the new skills I’d need to learn to get this project off the ground. I’d obviously planned for drivers, designed my menu and created my team in a way I thought was more than sufficient. This wasn’t enough. I hadn’t anticipated the level of paperwork on top of the standard due diligence needed for any hospitality business. I hadn’t anticipated that the shopping alone would be a part time job. That I could fill every fridge with fresh ingredients and spend 8 hours before service preparing them into dishes to find bare empty fridges by the end of 1 service. That no matter how much we simplified our processes

and removed dishes the sheer number of orders we received would create wait times we just don’t want customers to have to wait. That the team would end up working 70 hours a week minimum because of a 5 hour service (originally 6 hour). We begin

The original plans have changed dramatically and we’ve grown and adapted to this new style of work. Sam Celtel and Morgan Riddiford are the chefs that followed me from the Bristol Trader and I’ve been astonished by the quality of their work, their determination and speed to adapt, perfect and grow. Sharde Kingaby is my partner of 10 years. She has been dragged on board to help fill our ranks and she is my rock. We put our wedding on hold and used every penny of our wedding savings to set up this project and as you can imagine, with myself working so much it comes with its own challenges like self neglect. She adds extra hours to my day by taking

care of everything not work related followed by everything work related.

In our first weekend we did a soft launch. Didn’t announce it, so we thought we may tick over and ferret out the gremlins in the works before hitting the launch. I hadn’t planned on doing this initially due to funds running short as well as time but the week we were due to open was a catastrophe and delayed us by a week. It was not a soft launch. It was a baptism in fire. Drivers didn’t show up for work and we quickly realised we would’ve needed double the number of drivers anyway. Our packaging wasn’t sufficient to maintain food temperatures and our organisation of deliveries left much to be desired. The menu was far too large and ambitious and the workload was unsustainable and time consuming.

We adapt

We took a break on the Monday. We were brutally honest with ourselves about how

we needed to improve. We set to work that Tuesday to launch and begin a new week and we mostly (not without issues) had a perfect first week.

We took what we learned in our first week and put a plan of action into place. The team had worked too many hours and were just hanging in there so we needed to close Tuesdays too. This means a bright, fresh re energised team for the long week ahead. It means I can carry out all maintenance and administration tasks Monday through Tuesday which freed me up to start the team at 3pm so I can get into work, shop, prepare and set the shift up for their arrival. Carrying out these tasks myself allows me time to identify problems with recipes that I feel need improving too. When all is said and done, I’m proud to be part of such a dynamic and hardworking team. We didn’t think we would get everything 100% perfect but we sure are willing to try.

Daredevil with Parkinson’s raises £2,150 with charity skydive

A DAREDEVIL

who has Parkinson’s has raised £2,150 for charity by undertaking a skydive.

Brave Gareth Blake, from Cardigan, jumped from a plane and plummeted towards the ground from 15,000ft, in aid of Parkinson’s UK Cymru and his local support group.

The 53-year-old, who is originally from Holyhead, on Anglesey, and is a member of Parkinson’s UK Cymru’s Emlyn and Tivyside Parkinson’s group, described the experience as “awesome” and says he can’t wait to do it again.

The former logistics manager did the tandem jump with GoSkydive in Salisbury.

Ana Palazon, Country Director of Parkinson’s UK Cymru, has described Gareth’s efforts to raise money for the charity and awareness of the condition as “incredible”.

There are over 40 symptoms of Parkinson’s. But the 3 main symptoms of Parkinson’s, which is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, are a tremor (shaking), slowness of movement and rigidity (muscle stiffness).

Almost 8,000 people are currently living with Parkinson’s in Wales. Wales is the nation with the highest proportion of people who have Parkinson’s in the UK.

Gareth said: “It’s the first skydive I’ve ever

done and I did it from 1,500ft. It was awesome. The first few seconds when I jumped out of the plane was the best part for me, just dropping like a stone and all you can hear is the wind.

“My stomach was ok because I was more excited than nervous.

I wasn’t nervous at all when the plane took off. It’s only the second time I’ve been up in a plane, and I jumped out.

“I’m definitely going to be doing it again as soon as I can - as soon as I can afford it.”

Gareth explained how having Parkinson’s

has impacted his life: “Parkinson’s does slow me down more than I would like. The most visible symptom I have is the tremor. I also freeze when I go through doorways. Parkinson’s has had a big impact on my life.

“Before I moved to

to operate machinery. It has been quite difficult because some days I’d be there thinking ‘I wish I could go out and work’.

“When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s around 12 years ago, aged 41, I was told about a local support group. That group was the Emlyn & Tivyside Parkinson’s Support Group. Over the last 12 years they have been nothing but helpful and supportive with any issues that I may have due to the illness.

“Now I think it’s time for me to pay back for all they have done for me. By doing a skydive from 15,000ft I hope this goes part of the way to pay back to the group.”

Ana Palazon, Country Director of Parkinson’s UK Cymru: “Gareth’s efforts to raise awareness of Parkinson’s are truly incredible. To jump out of a plane at 15,000ft is amazing, not to mention incredibly brave.

“On behalf of the Parkinson’s community here in Wales, I would like to thank him for his ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the condition.

Cardigan I was working in London as a logistics manager for an air conditioning company.

“Unfortunately not long after I moved I found out I had Parkinson’s and that put a stop to my work life because of all the medication I was on. It made it impossible

“Gareth is living proof that the Parkinson’s community is filled with bold and bright individuals who are doing incredible things each and every day.

“It is vitally important that people with the condition feel seen and supported by their local communities, and beyond.”

Award-winning catering learner cooks up a career

A 17-year-old from Rhondda has taken the first step to achieving her goal of a professional cookery career after securing a job at one of Wales’ top-rated restaurants, just one year into her college studies, thanks to work experience through her course.

After impressing bosses during a weeklong work placement organised by her tutors, Coleg y Cymoedd learner Bethany Carter has bagged a position at the Grove of Narberth’s Fernery restaurant, which holds an impressive four AA Rosettes – one of only three restaurants in Wales to boast the accolade.

Bethany, who has just completed the first year of a two-year Professional Cookery Level 1 qualification, which provides an introduction to the skills required to be a professional chef, will now work as part of the Grove’s front of house team, with the opportunity to further her career at the prestigious hotel.

With a dream of one day owning her own restaurant, Bethany’s hope is that her new role at the Grove will enable her to develop her skills within the hospitality industry, including her customer service and aptitude as a chef, to help make her future ambitions a reality.

Having enjoyed

cooking with her grandfather as a child, Bethany’s love for food started from a young age, inspiring her to apply for Coleg y Cymoedd’s professional cookery qualification once she finished her GCSEs. The course prepares learners for a career within the hospitality industry, combining academic teaching with hands on experience within the college’s professional kitchens and restaurants.

During the course, Bethany discovered that

she not only had a flair for cooking, but also for front of house, and was inspired by her tutors and newfound confidence to enter a number of national culinary competitions over the last year.

Her passion for customer service, combined with her culinary skills, has seen Bethany bring home an array of awards. These include three awards at the Welsh International Culinary championships - two silver medals in the ‘front of house’ and ‘main meal’ categories, as well as a ‘Best-inClass’ award in the dessert category, which

she received recognition for her toasted brioche croute with pineapple, banana, and a salted caramel sauce.

Bethany said: “I’ve been so overwhelmed by the successes I’ve had over the last 12 months. If you had told me I’d be going to work for one of the best establishments in Wales this time last year, after completing only one year of my course, I wouldn’t have believed it.

“I used to be a really shy and anxious person, so it’s hard to believe I love front of house so much, but it makes me so happy to make other people

happy by giving them great food and service. Going to competitions and interacting with customers during my placement at the Grove has only helped to grow my confidence even more.

“I’m looking forward to working with such a talented group of people at The Grove, learning more about the industry and gaining more confidence in front of house and customer service so I can maybe one day run a restaurant to the same standard as the Grove.”

While studying at Coleg y Cymoedd,

Bethany has trained at the college’s commended catering and hospitality department, practicing advanced knife skills, front of house etiquette, cookery and kitchen best practice. She has also worked within the kitchen and front of house at Coleg y Cymoedd’s Rhondda based restaurant, Colliery 19, which is run by the college’s professional cookery learners.

Bethany added: “The first ever restaurant service I did at college was for 57 people and although it was initially so daunting, I really got into it and started to find this confidence within myself that I didn’t know was there.

“I can’t really put into words how much the tutors at my college have supported me through this last year.. They’ve pushed me to enter competitions, introduced me to key contacts in the hospitality, and have taught me so much about not just the industry, but myself and my own capability. I’ve learnt so much being here and I’m so glad I was brave enough to apply last year.

“Being at college has opened up so many opportunities for me, from awards to the very placement that led to me getting this job. I know people say it all the time, but I honestly don’t think I would be where I am without their support!”

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

Waste company faces multiple environmental violations

A PEMBROKESHIRE firm, Griffiths Waste Solutions (GWS) Ltd, based at Withybush Industrial Estate, Haverfordwest, is facing several charges in relation to noncompliance with environmental permits and regulations. The first hearing was at the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Aug 10).

The charges detail the following:

On or before 14th February 2020 in Haverfordwest, the company did not meet the requirements of the environmental permit condition 2.1.1 of Permit Reference No. FB3390HM, which mandates the storage of segregated waste outside in designated bays on a hard-standing surface.

Between 30th September 2017 and 13th August 2021, the company allegedly violated environmental permit condition 1.1.4. They are accused

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of failing to ensure a Technically Competent Manager was present onsite.

From 30th April 2019 to 31st January 2020, the company is alleged to have not met condition 4.2.2 by not submitting essential information about waste acceptance

and removal from their site. Specifically, GWS is accused of not submitting waste returns for the Withybush Industrial Estate within the designated period.

On or before 9th February 2022, Griffiths Waste Solutions Ltd is alleged to have disregarded a suspension notice issued on 19th March 2021. This is

believed to have led to 10 deposits of construction and demolition waste, notably soil and stone, being improperly deposited at their site.

On 9th May 2021 at Westfield Cottage, the company is accused of depositing controlled waste, amounting to 120.40 tonnes of scrap metal, on land without following the conditions of a valid environmental permit.

On or before 11th February 2022 in Haverfordwest, GWS Ltd is facing charges of neglecting its duty of care regarding controlled waste. They are accused of not ensuring a written description of the waste was passed to the appropriate parties and of failing to prevent the escape of waste.

The attending solicitor for the defence is Aled Owen from HCR Solicitors. The plea is yet to be confirmed, and the case has been adjourned to September 21 at the same court.

Johnston GP Surgery to re-open next week

JOHNSTON

GP Surgery in Pembrokeshire will be re-opening to the public on Monday, 14 August following the completion of essential building work.

Hywel Dda University Health Board took over management of Neyland and Johnston Surgery in November 2022.

In January, the Johnston Surgery was closed temporarily while the owners of the surgery building undertook essential building work.

Jill Paterson, Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Director of Primary Care, Community and Long Term Care said: “Work to upgrade the building has now been completed, and we are delighted that the surgery will be reopening to patients.

“I would like to thank

Johnston Surgery patients for their continued support for the Practice team. I know many patients have had to travel to Neyland Surgery for their care while the Practice building was temporarily closed.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding while this essential improvement work has taken place. The team across Neyland and Johnston Surgery is expanding, and we are looking forward to reestablishing services for the Johnston Practice community.

“We look forward to the surgery re-opening on 14th August.”

Johnston Surgery will be staffed daily, with a range of services being provided

which will include GP appointments; chronic disease and treatment room clinics with Practice Nurses; blood tests;

physiotherapy sessions; support to quit smoking and some mental health counselling sessions for young people.

The Practice, which is working as part of the South Pembrokeshire Cluster, has recruited new GPs to work across both

Neyland and Johnston, plus a new Lead Nurse and new Practice Nurse. All new staff will be starting this summer.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Three Pembrokeshire karate students achieve their Black Belts

THREE students of karate who have been studying the martial art at Wado Ryu Karate Dojo Pembroke Dock have recently been awarded their black belts. This is not only a symbol of significant achievement and skill but, it also represents the deeper values and philosophies of the martial art. It’s a testament to an individual’s commitment, both physically and mentally, to the craft and the community.

The three achievers are:

Nadja Vonhoff:

Nadja embarked on her Karate journey at a young age. Currently a member of Henry Tudor, she is soon set to transition to Swansea University, where she will pursue a degree in Psychology. In addition to Karate, Nadja has a keen interest in travel and literature. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

Dylan Rowles: Dylan picked up Karate again after his return from Dubai. He initially began his training with Pembroke Dock Karate when he was just nine years old. A student at Haverfordwest High VC, Dylan’s other passions include rugby and the gym.

Leo Richards:

Enrolled at Henry Tudor, Leo’s introduction to Karate began at the tender age of seven. Much like Dylan, Leo’s hobbies include rugby and working out at the gym.

This past year was challenging for all the students. With school examinations looming, they also had to prepare for their Black Belt syllabus. Their unwavering discipline, commitment, and the willingness to put in extra hours at various times of the day ensured they reached their goal. Congratulations to each of them on this remarkable achievement. The Black Belt Grading is surely an

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event they will cherish and remember.

Achieving a black belt in karate symbolises a profound level of proficiency and understanding of the martial art. Here’s a description of what it means and the skill level involved:

Achieving a Black Belt in Karate: A black belt is not merely a rank, but a reflection of the dedication, discipline, and time an individual has invested in mastering the art of karate. It represents a comprehensive understanding of techniques, forms, and the philosophy behind them.

Technical Proficiency: Achieving a black belt requires a practitioner to demonstrate superior technical skills. This includes mastering a wide range of stances, strikes, kicks, punches, blocks, and evasive maneuvers. The execution of these techniques requires precision, speed, and power.

Kata Mastery: Kata are choreographed patterns or sequences that combine various techniques. A black belt holder will have learned and be able to perform multiple kata with fluidity, demonstrating both form and function.

Sparring Ability: Beyond just techniques, a black belt should be adept at kumite (sparring). This tests the ability to apply techniques in real-time against an opponent, showcasing defensive and offensive strategies, as well as adaptability.

Physical Fitness: The journey to a black belt demands physical endurance, strength, flexibility, and agility. A practitioner should be in top physical condition, reflecting the rigorous training they’ve undergone.

Mental Fortitude:

Karate is as much a mental discipline as a physical one. A black belt indicates that the individual possesses qualities such as patience, perseverance, discipline, and respect. They are also expected to embody the philosophical tenets of karate in their daily life, which include courtesy, integrity, and humility.

Continuous Learning: Achieving a black belt doesn’t mean the end of one’s learning journey. In many traditions, it’s often said that earning a black belt is just the beginning, marking a transition from intermediate to advanced learning. There are typically several degrees or dans of black belts, with each successive level indicating further mastery and understanding.

Teaching Ability: Many systems expect their black belt practitioners to be able to impart knowledge to lower-ranked students, guiding them through techniques, forms, and the foundational principles of karate.

Wales records 2,000 child grooming crimes amid online safety bill debate

TODAY (Aug 15), NSPCC Cymru unveiled alarming figures showing almost 2,000 online grooming crimes against children in Wales over the past six years, a period during which online safety laws have been under discussion.

Research data from all major police forces in Wales pinpoints 1,753 offences of Sexual Communication with a Child since its inception in 2017/18.

Nationally, police

recorded over 34,000 such offences, with a staggering 5,500 involving primary school children. This means under-12s account for a quarter of the identified victims.

Ahead of the final decisions on the Online Safety Bill, NSPCC’s analysis underscores the grave reality of child abuse on social media.

Notably:

83% of grooming cases over the past six

years targeted girls. Snapchat was implicated in 26% of these incidents, while Meta-owned platforms were involved in 47%.

Sophia*, a victim of online grooming at 15, shared her traumatic experience. He coerced her, using her photos as leverage, and instilled fear by threatening to expose her to family and friends.

The Online Safety Bill, drafted two years ago, was first mooted in 2018 after NSPCC’s clarion

call. The legislation proposes a legal duty of care by tech companies to young users, obliging them to assess and mitigate child abuse risks. It also empowers Ofcom, the regulator, to address abuse in private messaging, ensuring safeguards even in encrypted settings.

Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC Chief Executive, said the research underscores the urgency for the Online Safety Bill. Cecile Gwilym, of NSPCC Cymru, echoed similar

sentiments, urging the Welsh Government to collaborate closely with Westminster for child safety.

The NSPCC’s proactive involvement has also led to the incorporation of key provisions in the bill: Holding tech bosses criminally responsible for significant child endangerment.

Introducing guidance on tackling Violence Against Women and Girls.

Ensuring tech firms address grooming

pathways across different platforms.

However, the NSPCC wants the bill to regulate AI and immersive technology. They are also advocating for a dedicated online child safety entity to pre-emptively address emerging risks.

As the Online Safety Bill’s fate hangs in the balance, the NSPCC is mobilizing support, urging campaigners to press MPs for its robust implementation.

*Name altered for confidentiality.

117 full time and part jobs reviewing UC claims in Pembroke Dock

UP TO 117 well paid, full and part time, long term permanent jobs are currently being advertised on the gov. uk civil service jobs website. Successful applicants will be based in the Pembroke Dock Service Centre.

The role includes a full review of live UC claims to determine the claimants’ payments are correct. Key messages for these roles are: a step into a civil service career; flexible working opportunities to fit around your home life and caring responsibilities;

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opportunities for hybrid working (part office/ part home working); comprehensive benefits – pension, annual leave entitlement; onthe-job learning and development; a strong emphasis on cohesive team working as part of a new team.

If jobseekers are looking for a career that makes a clear and positive difference to people’s lives, then a DWP Executive Officer

role may be the ideal route.

To find out more about the role and to apply, jobseekers are encouraged to go to the gov.uk civil service jobs website; a search for job reference number 307424 will tell potential applicants all that they need to know.

The current advert specifies a closing date of 29 August 2023.

If applicants need any advice and guidance, they should contact their local Jobcentre or Careers Wales office.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Dyfed-Powys Police sees surge in voluntary resignations

A GROWING number of officers are voluntarily parting ways with Dyfed-Powys Police, according to the latest figures.

The Police Federation of England and Wales highlights an alarming trend – police resource demand exceeding supply. The number of officers opting for voluntary resignation has hit a record peak across England and Wales.

Data from the Home Office indicates that 23 full-time officers chose to leave Dyfed-Powys Police in the year ending March, a rise from 18 the previous year.

Factoring in retirements and dismissals, the force witnessed 73 departures last year, equating to a 5.9% leavers rate when not accounting for transfers.

In a broader perspective, 4,575 full-time officers across England and Wales handed in their

resignations last year, marking a substantial 33% jump from the 3,433 in 2021-22. This brings the overall leavers rate to

an unprecedented 6.6%.

Steve Hartshorn, the national chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, voiced concerns mirroring those raised by numerous officers. Hartshorn stated, “Despite our members’

unwavering dedication to public safety, the imbalance between demand and resources persists.” Emphasising the significance of not just recruiting but also retaining officers, he pressed for improvements

in pay and conditions.

“The future must center on restoring pay,” he commented.

While resignations were high, the joining rate stood robustly at 11.1%. Consequently, the total number of

officers increased from 140,200 in March 2022 to 147,400 by March 2023.

However, Hartshorn pointed out that this is a modest increase from the 143,700 officers in 2010, especially considering the UK’s booming population and the ever-evolving complexity of crime.

Dyfed-Powys Police force numbers grew modestly, tallying 1,294 officers in 2023 from 1,230 the previous year.

Responding to the findings, a Home Office spokeswoman remarked, “We’ve achieved record police staffing levels across England and Wales. This major investment signals our expectation for these numbers to hold steady, with police forces having solid strategies to guarantee this.” She also added a silver lining: “Our recent survey revealed 82% of new recruits are content with their roles, and 77% envision a lifelong career in policing.”

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

‘Megafobia’ rollercoaster reopens after £1.5m makeover

AN ADRENALINEpacked day at Oakwood Theme Park witnessed political leaders taking the front seats! The famed ‘Megafobia’ rollercoaster, having served thrill-seekers for over 25 years, unveiled its gleaming new look, post a whopping £1.5 million refurbishment.

Marking the occasion, Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MS, Samuel Kurtz, and the Welsh Conservatives’

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

stalwart, Andrew RT Davies MS, were present, zooming down the freshlyrevived tracks of what’s known as the UK’s best wooden rollercoaster.

Oakwood, boasting a legacy of over three decades, stands as Wales’ sole and largest theme park, featuring an assortment of over 35 rides. Not only has it made hearts race with

its exhilarating rides, but it has also significantly fuelled the local tourism scene.

A nostalgic Samuel Kurtz reminisced, “Oakwood has, for generations, been the hallmark of thrill in Wales. Riding the Megafobia post its majestic revamp, especially sharing the front seat experience with Andrew RT Davies, is a memory to cherish. Those gut-wrenching drops felt even more

electrifying!” He also lauded the continued investments and vision of Aspro Parks, emphasizing the park’s role as a beacon of joy, especially following the challenges of the pandemic.

Echoing the sentiment, Andrew RT Davies expressed, “It’s

undeniable – Oakwood is Pembrokeshire’s crown jewel! Riding the Megafobia was sheer fun, a testament to the park’s unwavering commitment to quality and entertainment.”

Phil Verbinnen, Oakwood Park Director, and Sue Elaiho, the UK Director of Aspro

Parks, were on ground zero, welcoming the leaders and hinting at further invigorating developments in store for Oakwood’s future. For fans and firsttimers alike, the revamped Megafobia awaits to whisk you away on a ride you won’t soon forget!

GCSE and A-Level Results 2023: Childline’s Call to Support Young Minds

AS A-LEVEL results are released tomorrow and GCSE results anticipated on the 24th, the NSPCC is extending a guiding hand to students and parents. The nation’s most trusted child protection charity provides a wellspring of resources including expert advice, Childline counselling statistics, and personal accounts from young people.

Childline, known for its unwavering support for the young, emphasises the myriad of emotions students undergo during this crucial phase. They urge students to refrain from undue comparisons with peers, underscoring the fact that every individual has a unique journey and distinct results.

For many, exam results are a gateway to future opportunities – from further studies and apprenticeships to exciting travels and work ventures. But, as

Childline wisely notes, decisions don’t need to be made on the spot. Reflecting and evaluating options can significantly alleviate the anxieties of the unknown.

Students are encouraged to discuss

any apprehensions about results day or the road ahead. Conversing with a trusted adult can offer a fresh perspective and helpful advice. Childline stands as a beacon of hope for those feeling alone in their struggles, especially during these testing times.

For students who

might not see the results they aspired for, several avenues exist. They can consider getting their papers re-marked or explore the National Careers Service to understand potential job roles. For A-Level students, university clearing is an available recourse.

The charity also

offers a word of advice to parents. Emotions can run high during results season. As guardians, it’s essential to remain patient, ensuring children feel valued irrespective of the outcome. Starting conversations about their future well in advance can make the transition smoother. If they’re reticent to discuss their feelings, Childline can serve as a confidential lifeline.

Recent statistics revealed that in the past year, Childline delivered a staggering 760 counselling sessions on exam result concerns, with a significant surge in August and the age group of 16-18 being the most frequent callers.

Childline’s Director, Shaun Friel, conveyed the significance of these results, “The exam results period is undoubtedly intense. But it’s vital that young people remember that academic scores

aren’t the sole metric of success. Many paths lie ahead, even if the initial results aren’t as expected.”

To give a clearer picture of the turmoil some students face, Childline shared anonymous accounts. An 18-year-old expressed her trepidation about A-Levels and the challenges of dealing with familial issues, friendships, and mental health. Another student voiced his fears about post A-Level choices, indicating the enormous pressure students often feel.

As the nation eagerly awaits the results, it’s a call to arms for everyone – peers, parents, teachers, and community members alike – to rally around our young and ensure they’re supported, whatever the outcome. For guidance or assistance, reach out to Childline at 0800 1111 or visit www.childline. org.uk.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Why Pembrokeshire County Show is essential for the county

THE HEART of West Wales beats not only in its rugged coastlines, pristine shores, or its legendary castles. But also, it resonates strongly in its agricultural traditions, where the Pembrokeshire County Show holds a place of pride.

Once primarily a stage for farmers, agricultural shows in West Wales have expanded their audience. A telling sign of this shift was at the recent Royal Welsh Show. Over two-thirds of the attendees had no direct tie to farming, a testament to the growing attraction of these events beyond the farming community. This expansion underlines a societal drift away from our agricultural roots. The urgency now is to ensure these shows evolve to bridge this widening gap.

It’s about more than just keeping traditions alive. These events uphold the economic vitality of the region. A robust emphasis on educational initiatives, shopping, and local cuisine, like that seen at the Royal Welsh, underpins their continued relevance. It’s a symbiotic relationship - the shows provide entertainment and education, while the non-farming attendees ensure they remain economically viable.

The Pembroke Town and Country Show stands as an exemplar of this evolution. It

has transformed from the earlier “Pembroke Farmers’ Club Show”, reflecting the changing times and needs of the community. Today, it’s not just a farming show but a celebration of communal spirit and achievements. Even though the Pembrokeshire County Show has curtailed its schedule from three days to two, its influence and importance remain steadfast.

Anticipation grows for the upcoming summer agricultural

shows, which promise to spotlight the best of rural Wales. Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, Lesley Griffiths, highlighted her enthusiasm for attending the Sioe Mon and Pembrokeshire shows, acknowledging them as pivotal events in the rural calendar. Griffiths emphasised the significance of these shows in fostering discussions and debates. The Welsh Government, marking its presence at both events, will

focus on disseminating information about the Sustainable Farming Scheme, aiming to integrate feedback from the previous year’s codesign exercise into the final version of the proposal.

Addressing the pressing challenges, Griffiths stated, “The industry is facing change and many challenges including the climate and nature emergencies... the priority must be to allow our farmers to produce food sustainably while

zero target.

For those deeply connected to this land, events like the 2023 Royal Welsh Show become even more special. Witnessing British Limousin, Graham’s Ruth, claim the beef champion title, or the Jersey cow, Windyridge Tequila Diamond, triumph in the dairy section, were truly memorable moments. While for some, the charm lies in modern farming equipment, for others, it’s an immersion into a cherished past.

More than mere entertainment, these events have a broader mission. At a time when many remain unaware of how their food travels from farm to fork, these shows spotlight the intricate processes behind food production, underlining the virtues of local sourcing. They foster a curiosity that encourages consumers to seek trusted, locallyproduced food.

tackling the climate emergency.”

Echoing Griffiths, the First Minister, Mark Drakeford, expressed eagerness to continue discussions on future support for the industry at Sioe Mon, emphasising the event’s importance in the North Wales summer calendar. He pointed out the critical role farmers play in the ongoing climate and nature crises, stressing the need to achieve a sustainable food production model that aligns with the net

Beyond the festivities and fellowship, the Pembrokeshire County Show stands as a declaration. A proclamation of West Wales’ adaptability, its vibrant commercial ambiance, and its staunch dedication to diminishing the urban-rural disparity.

In an era marked by challenges, it shines brightly, endorsing the belief that West Wales is unparalleled in fostering business and community togetherness.

THE clear and resounding message echoing from the opening day of the Pembrokeshire County Show is its enduring allure, drawing thousands who appreciate loyalty, respect, and fulfilment within its gates.

The Withybush Showground transforms into a hub for judges, exhibitors, traders, and numerous visitors annually, embodying a cornerstone of local life in Pembrokeshire.

Stephen Crabb, the Member of Parliament for Preseli Pembrokeshire, emphasised the show’s significance, stating, “The county show has always been a vital shop window for so many, including visitors to the county, locals, and the farming community – the beating heart of our rural life here in Pembrokeshire.”

This sentiment reverberated across the spectrum of participants.

The exhibition’s calibre and standards showcased its prowess in attracting attendees from all corners of the UK, spanning both cattle and horse displays. “The quality of animals that I’ve judged today has been exemplary,” noted Alwyn Rees, a respected Charolais breeder and exhibitor, highlighting the meticulous effort that goes into presenting animals at this level. “The quality displayed today at the Pembrokeshire County Show has been tremendous,” he added.

Palomino judge Andrew Phillips of Llandysul echoed the sentiment, stating, “The quality is still here.” He praised the champions and runners-up in his categories, highlighting their competitiveness even on a larger stage like the Royal Welsh. He spoke of the unique allure of the Pembrokeshire County Show, asserting, “Everyone in South and

West Wales looks forward to coming here, being the second largest show in Wales, and everyone wants to finish the season on a high. The Pembrokeshire County Show has always had that prestige, and it continues to do so in 2023.”

Cllr Thomas Baden Tudor, Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, recognised the show committee and its extensive team of organisers for maintaining the event’s pivotal role in the county’s calendar. He commended the show’s promotion of Pembrokeshire’s agricultural industry, remarking, “This is the biggest agricultural show in west Wales, so it’s extremely reassuring to see so many people continuing to support it, which includes local Pembrokeshire residents and also the many other visitors who travel here from outside the country.”

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels Friday August

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels

Pembrokeshire County Show dazzles with livestock, entertainment, and community spirit

The wait came to an end as the 2023 Pembrokeshire County Show, the largest agricultural event in Wales, took place on August 16 and 17 at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.

The Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society (PAS) pulled out all the stops this year to ensure a spectacular two-day show. PAS President Brian Jones expressed excitement about reuniting members, competitors, trade stands, sponsors, and the community for the event.

Visitors experienced top-tier livestock displays, sampled local food and drinks, and enjoyed various entertainments.

Live music, choirs, competitions, and more took place on the Pure West Radio stage each day. Trade stands, vintage vehicles, and diverse showcases added to the excitement.

Cattle, equine displays, sheep and pig exhibitions, showjumping, and dog agility arenas were highlights on both days. The Food Hall presented Welsh produce and live cookery demos, while the Panic Circus Big Top provided free family fun.

The Countryside Park featured gun dog displays, talks on beekeeping, and falconry demonstrations.

Renowned sheepdog handler Meirion Owen made a debut

County Showground’s accessibility was improved for visitors with limited mobility, offering tarmac pathways, Blue Badge parking, and mobility scooter rentals. Well-behaved dogs on leads were welcomed, and dog drinking bowls were conveniently located around the showground.

Show Blossoms with creativity

THE Pembrokeshire County Show witnessed an aweinspiring showcase of talents as local gardeners, cooks, and craftspeople collaborated to produce a vibrant display that captivated visitors.

The horticulture building, a hub of creativity, burst at the seams with remarkable exhibits ranging from intricate royal celebration

cakes to meticulously carved walking sticks, not to mention colossal vegetables and delicate blooms.

Richard Davies, the vice-chairman of the show’s horticultural committee, shared his excitement, revealing,

“This year’s entries have seen a significant increase compared to last year, drawing in many new exhibitors –a heartening sight. The dedication displayed

by participants has been truly remarkable.” Davies, who hails from Haverfordwest, not only expertly manages his committee responsibilities but also secured an astounding victory for the 23rd consecutive year. His achievements included a staggering 38 first prizes spanning a dazzling array of categories, from vegetables and potted plants to cut flowers like agapanthus, dahlias, and

gladioli.

A man of diverse pursuits, 58-year-old Richard not only tends to his flourishing garden on Winch Lane, complete with three greenhouses and two polytunnels, but also actively participates in veterans’ tennis at Haverfordwest Tennis

Club while juggling his role as a part-time financial advisor.

Among the first to extend congratulations was Tom Tudor, a county councillor and chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council. Impressed by the display, Tudor affirmed that the show offered a

glimpse into the epitome of Pembrokeshire agriculture.

The County Show has emerged as a celebration of not only horticultural prowess but also the spirit of community and dedication that thrives within Pembrokeshire’s talented residents.

www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk For up to date news please check our social network channels Friday August 18th 2023

Renishaw raises aspirations at Greenhill Special School

TO INSPIRE

students from different backgrounds and showcase the engineering opportunities open to them, global engineering technologies company, Renishaw, has partnered with Greenhill Special School in Cardiff, Wales. As part of the collaboration, small groups of students from the school, aged from 11 to 16, take part in a range of hands-on engineering activities at Renishaw’s dedicated STEM Centre at its site in Miskin, near Cardiff. Visits to the site, where the company employs 700 people, helps expose students to a range of practical skills and raise awareness of potential careers that are available on their doorstep.

Greenhill is a school for students that have experienced considerable learning and behavioural difficulties in mainstream school, that aims to equip them with skills to achieve their true potential. As part of its science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) outreach programmes in Wales and South West England, Renishaw engages with

many local schools, hosting workshops at its dedicated STEM Centres.

During the workshops for Greenhill Special School, Renishaw engages small groups of students in a range of activities, such as 3D printing, woodwork, soldering, laser cutting and coding, giving them the chance to work on practical tasks. Team members hosting the activities also provide context on how the skills apply to everyday life and give tours of the Miskin site to showcase the diverse roles in the business. The groups rotate every term, so students across the school have the chance to get involved.

“These students have often experienced challenging experiences in a typical classroom environment, so during our workshops we aim to provide them with more positive interactions using technology,” explained Sarah Lewis, STEM Outreach Tutor at Renishaw. “From our experience, as well as feedback from teachers, we’ve seen how working in a more informal setting and showing how skills apply to the real world

enthuses students. Giving them hands-on activities helps improve concentration skills and the tours show them the variety of roles available at businesses like Renishaw, from machining to assembly.”

“We’re also excited to see how the partnership and working with the students has influenced the school itself. After seeing the enthusiasm of the students, the school has heavily invested in its Design and Technology (D&T) department, purchasing better laser cutters, as well as 3D printers, so that everyone has access to equipment,” concluded Lewis.

As part of its extensive STEM Outreach programme, Renishaw supports multiple local schools with visits to its South Wales and Gloucestershire sites to inspire young people to consider engineering as a possible future career option. In South Wales, Renishaw is also a partner of organisations that are similarly focused on inspiring young people, including Cardiff Rugby’s Community Foundation and Hockey Wales.

St. Michael’s school shines bright: A-Level triumph with A* performance

ST. MICHAEL’S SCHOOL, Llanelli, is extremely pleased to announce another year of outstanding A-Level results.

79.1% of all A-Level grades were either an A* or A, 94.3% were A*-B and 98.7% were A*- C grade.

91.5% of pupils gained at least one A*/A grade.

The vast majority of pupils have earned a place at their chosen university to study courses such as Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Economics.

Headmaster Mr Benson Ferrari said:

“Congratulations are due to all of our pupils who sat A-Level examinations this summer. The excellent results achieved are a reflection of their hard work, alongside that of their teachers and families. Their level of motivation is an inspiration

to us all, but just as importantly, the way they care for each other along that journey is also a key part of their success. Particularly commended are our Year 13s who had to adjust to a lot of change as exam board requirements varied over

the past few years. They now progress to many of the finest universities in the world and we wish them the very best as they continue their education”.

In 2021, St. Michael’s School was awarded The Sunday Times Welsh Independent School of

the Decade and this was in part due to the excellent exam results that the school receives each year.

St. Michael’s was also ranked 49th nationally in the Sunday Times Parent Power 2023: best UK schools guide and league table.

Susan Calman’s Summer by the Sea Channel 5, 8pm

Ever wondered what families did before Centre Parcs was invented? Susan Calman finds out when she visits Suffolk. One of her destinations is Thorpeness, where she explores an intriguing holiday let and, while boating on a lake in the centre of the village, learns about the local landowner’s efforts to turn the area into a purposebuilt holiday resort.

10.30 Defenders UK. (R) 11.15

Homes Under the Hammer. (R)

12.15 Bargain Hunt. 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC

Wales Today; Weather. 1.45 Animal Park. 2.30 Rick Stein’s Cornwall.

(R) 3.00 Escape to the Perfect Town. (R) 3.45 Make It at Market.

(R) 4.30 The Repair Shop. (R) 5.15

Pointless.

6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.

6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

7.00 Food Fest Wales. Sean Fletcher explores Cardiff Market. Last in the series. (R)

7.30 One Man and His Island –Our Lives. The ex-aircraft engineer, now the warden of a remote island between England and Wales. (R)

8.00 Question of Sport. With Hannah Cockroft, Clinton Morrison, Desiree Henry and Nat Coombs.

8.30 Would I Lie to You? Material from the panel show, not originally shown in the series 16 episodes. (R)

9.00 Celebrity MasterChef.

9.30 The Power of Parker.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Rewind: 60 Years of Welsh Pop. (R)

11.10 Film: Heat. (1995) Crime thriller, starring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino.

1.50 BBC News.

SATURDAY’S TV 19.8.23

CHOICE

6.15 Homes Under the Hammer.

(R) 7.15 Animal Park. (R) 8.00

Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World. (R)

9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45

Mastermind. (R) 2.15 Make Me a Dealer. (R) 3.00 Best Bakes Ever. (R) 3.45 Portillo’s State Secrets. (R) 4.15 Tigers About the House: What Happened Next. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)

6.00 The Farmers’ Country Showdown. Two sheep farming families compete in Heckington Show. (R)

6.30 The Farmers’ Country Showdown. (R)

7.00 Eisteddfod 2023 with Sian Eleri. Sian presents a compilation of performance highlights. Last in the series.

8.00 Gardeners’ World. Monty Don plants for pollinators in the wildlife garden.

9.00 The Real Peaky Blinders. The story of the Birmingham gangs that inspired the BBC drama. (R)

10.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.00 Weather.

11.05 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. (R)

12.05 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. (R)

1.05 Sign Zone: Beyond Human: Artificial Intelligence and UsPanorama. (R) 1.35 Couples

Therapy. (R) 2.05 Your Home

Made Perfect. (R) 3.05 This Is BBC Two.

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 James Martin’s Islands to Highlands. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R)

4.00 Tipping Point. (R) 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30

7.00 Backstage. Nest Jenkins celebrates 50 years of hip hop.

7.30 Emmerdale. Paddy tries to avoid Marlon.

8.00 Coronation Street. A tormented Tyrone does not know which way to turn. Ryan suffers the effects of his steroid intake. Debbie alerts Ronnie to a lucrative work opportunity.

9.00 The Reunion. A murder investigation is opened when Fanny’s patient dies.

10.00

10.30

10.45 The Ipcress File. Harry is subjected to a regime of mental torture. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine.

11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.

1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15

Film: Deadly Reunion. (2022) 4.00

The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00 5 News at 5.

6.00 Eggheads. The Allotment Boys take on the experts. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 My Cornwall with Fern Britton. The presenter embarks on the last leg of her road trip. Last in the series. (R)

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Susan Calman’s Summer by the Sea. Susan starts by surveying Southwold on the Suffolk coast.

9.00 Yellowstone. Human remains turn up at the Native American reservation. (R)

10.00 Legends of Pop: Stock, Aitken and Waterman. The career of the songwriting and production trio. (R)

11.35 Best of Stock, Aitken and Waterman. Inside the Hit Factory, with hits by Rick Astley, Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan. (R) 1.05

(R)

BBC1 BBC2 ITV1 WALES S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL

BBC News; Weather. 1.15

Bargain Hunt. (R) 2.00 Money for Nothing. (R) 3.00 Escape to the Country. (R) 4.00 Kiri’s TV Flashback. (R) 4.30 Final Score.

5.30 BBC News. 5.40 BBC Wales

Today; Weather. 5.50 Pointless Celebrities.

6.40 Film: Mulan. (2020)

Premiere. A young Chinese maiden disguises herself as a male warrior in order to save her father. Live action remake of the Disney classic, starring Liu Yifei.

Alexander Armstrong

Buckingham Palace with Alexander Armstrong Channel 5, 9.15pm

Alexander and the team look at the triumphant and tragic final days of the Victorian Era, as well as how Edward VII's reign breathed fresh life into the palace. JJ Chalmers finds out about the headaches reported when the palace was first illuminated by electric lights, while Raksha Dave digs into the ageing queen's eccentric penchant for hoarding.

8.25 Casualty. Donna grapples with her guilt.

9.15 Champion. Vita realises she does not want to be a success if it means losing her brother.

10.00 BBC News; Weather.

10.20 Match of the Day. Gary Lineker presents highlights of the latest Premier League matches, including Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United and Manchester City v Newcastle United.

11.40 Film: Kick-Ass. (2010) A teenager tries to become a superhero, but finds real-life crime-fighting much more dangerous than in comics. Action comedy, starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Chloe Grace Moretz.

1.30 Weather for the Week Ahead.

1.35 BBC News.

6.40 Hey Duggee. (R) 6.50

Supertato. (R) 7.00 Shaun the Sheep. (R) 7.05 Dennis & Gnasher

Unleashed! (R) 7.15 Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese. (R) 7.30 The Deep. (R) 7.50 The Dengineers. (R)

8.20 Newsround. 8.30 Blue Peter.

(R) 9.00

Athletics: World Championships 2023. Coverage of day one. 1.30 Food & Drink. (R)

2.00 Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers.

(R) 2.15 The Hundred. Trent Rockets v Birmingham Phoenix

(Start-time 2.30pm). 5.30

Athletics: World Championships 2023. Further coverage of day one.

9.30 Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music. Robert Elfstrom’s 1969 documentary charting the career of country star Johnny Cash, capturing the Man in Black at the peak of his powers. (R)

10.30 Later Presents... Johnny Cash. A 1994 appearance on the show by the country star, as well as the full version of the widely acclaimed video for the song Hurt. Presented by Jools Holland. (R)

11.00 Film: Walk the Line. (2005) Biopic of country musician Johnny Cash, examining his career and turbulent relationship with fellow singer and future wife June Carter. With Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon.

1.10 Film: The Babadook. (2014)

2.40 Couples Therapy. (R) 3.05

This Is BBC Two. Preview of upcoming programmes.

6.00 CITV: Dare Master. 6.05 Lloyd of the Flies. (R) 6.20 Looney Tunes Cartoons. (R) 6.35 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! (R) 7.25 Film: Scooby-Doo! Knight Time Terror. (2015) 7.55 The Rubbish World of Dave Spud. (R) 8.10 Mr Magoo. (R) 8.25 ITV News. 8.30 FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. The third-place play-off (Kick-off

9.00am). 11.20 James Martin’s Islands to Highlands. (R) 12.15 Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. (R)

1.15 ITV News; Weather. 1.30 ITV Racing: Live from Newbury. Coverage from Nebury, Newmarket and Ripon. 4.00 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals. (R) 4.30 Film: The World Is Not Enough. (1999)

7.00 ITV News; Weather.

7.15 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

7.30 Moneyball. Game show, hosted by Ian Wright.

8.30 Film: Quantum of Solace. (2008) James Bond sets out on a personal mission of vengeance and uncovers a plan to cause a coup in a Latin American country. Spy thriller sequel, with Daniel Craig and Olga Kurylenko.

10.30 ITV News; Weather.

10.45 Kate Garraway’s Life Stories. (R)

11.45 English Football League Highlights. Action from the latest fixtures.

1.10 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars. (R) 2.00 Starstruck. (R) 2.55

Diana’s Decades. (R) 3.50 Unwind.

5.05 Monster Carp. (R)

6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Siwrne Ni. 8.05 Dyffryn

Mwmin. (R) 8.25 Bwystfil. (R) 8.35

Lego DREAMZzz. (R) 8.55 Dennis a

Dannedd. (R) 9.10 Rhyfeddodau

Chwilengoch a Cath Ddu. (R) 9.35

Gwrach y Rhibyn. (R) 10.00 Ty am

Ddim. (R) 11.00 Bwrdd i Dri. (R)

11.30 Richard Holt: Yr Academi

Felys. (R) 12.00 Ffermio. (R) 12.30

Y ’Sgubor Flodau. (R) 1.30 Sain

Ffagan. (R) 2.00 Dau Gi Bach. (R)

2.30 Ein Llwybrau Celtaidd. (R)

3.00 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 3.30

Wrecsam – Clwb Ni! (R) 4.30

Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 5.00 Sgorio

Byw. Barry Town United v Colwyn Bay (Kick-off 5.15pm).

7.15 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.

7.30 Am Dro! (R)

8.30 Gemau’r Haf – Rygbi.

9.30 Priodas Pum Mil. (R)

10.30 Mas ar y Maes. (R)

11.00 Pysgod i Bawb. (R)

11.35 Diwedd.

Channel 4: 6.15 The King of Queens. (R) 7.05 Everybody Loves Raymond. (R) 8.20 Frasier. (R)

8.50 The Simpsons. (R) 12.20

Film: Dora and the Lost City of Gold. (2019) 2.20 A Place in the Sun. (R) 3.25 Four in a Bed. (R)

5.55 Channel 4 News. 6.25 The Queens that Changed the World.

7.15 Coastal Railways with Julie Walters. (R) 8.15 Matt Baker’s Travels in the Country: USA. (R)

9.15 Becoming Elizabeth. 11.40

Film: Ad Astra. (2019) 1.45 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 2.35 The Simpsons. (R) 3.00 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 3.50 Hollyoaks Omnibus. (R)

6.00 Milkshake! 10.00 Teenage

Mutant Ninja Turtles. (R) 10.25

Entertainment News. 10.35

Friends. (R) 12.35 Bargain-Loving

Brits in the Sun. (R) 3.35 Jane

McDonald: Cruising Europe’s Great Rivers. (R) 5.25 When Luxury Holidays Go Horribly Wrong. (R)

6.40 5 News Weekend.

6.45 King Charles: His Mother’s Son. Documentary exploring the relationship between Elizabeth II and her eldest son.

8.15 The King’s High Street: Inside St James’s. A look at the central London shopping destination, meet the characters who run these world famous stores, and the customers who purchase their top of the range products.

9.15 Buckingham Palace with Alexander Armstrong. Alexander and the team look at the triumphant and tragic final days of the Victorian Era, as well as how Edward VII’s reign breathed fresh life into the palace.

10.15 Greatest TV Moments of the 70s. (R)

12.10 Shameless: The Rise & Fall of Katie Price. (R) 1.30 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.30 Get Your Tatts Out: Kavos Ink. (R) 4.15 Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.05 Divine Designs. (R) 5.30 Entertainment News. 5.35 Thomas & Friends: Big World! Big Adventures! (R) 5.45 Paw Patrol. (R)

BBC Four

7.00 Eisteddfod 2023 with Sian Eleri 8.00 Rome: A History of the Eternal City 9.00 Film: Radioactive (2019) Biopic of Marie Curie, starring Rosamund Pike. 10.40 Oppenheimer

ITV2

3.05 Film: Home (2015) 4.55 Film: The Croods (2013) 6.50 Film: The Huntsman: Winter’s War (2016) Fantasy adventure, starring Chris Hemsworth. 9.00 Film: We’re the Millers (2013) 11.20 Family Guy

ITV3

2.55 Endeavour 5.00 Midsomer Murders 10.55 Ridley

ITV4

5.05 Film: Shalako (1968) 7.15 Film: The Man from the Alamo (1953) Western, starring Glenn Ford. 9.00 English Football League Highlights. Action from the latest fixtures. 10.35 Film: In the Line of Fire (1993)

E4

2.20 Film: Peter Rabbit (2018)

4.05 Young Sheldon 5.00 The Big Bang Theory 6.30 Film: Now You See Me 2 (2016) Crime thriller sequel, starring Jesse Eisenberg. 9.00 Celebrity Gogglebox 10.00 Gogglebox

Film4

2.55 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (2016) 5.05 Home Alone (1990) 7.10 Clueless (1995) Comedy, starring Alicia Silverstone. 9.00 Deadpool (2016) Superhero comedy adventure, starring Ryan Reynolds. 11.10 To Live and Die in LA (1985)

Susan Calman

TV 20.8.23

Live. 10.00 MOTD Live: FIFA

Women’s World Cup Final. All the action from the showpiece match (Kick-off 11.00am). 1.30 BBC

News. 1.40 Weather for the Week

Ahead. 1.45 Money for Nothing.

(R) 2.15 Escape to the Country. (R)

3.00 Athletics: World Championships 2023. Including the men’s 100m final.

6.35 BBC News.

6.50 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

Levison Wood

Levison Wood: Walking with Polar Bears

Channel 4, 7pm

The explorer visits one of Earth's most remote environments in search of one of the world's most elusive populations of polar bears. Levison learns more about the unique lives of these apex predators, their environment and how they're surviving against worsening odds caused by the increasing threat of human activity and climate change. Last in the series.

7.00 Countryfile. Anita Rani visits a family-run sheep farm in Somerset hosting a music festival, and also dips into the archives to present some memorable features on rural music.

8.00 Antiques Roadshow. At Brodie Castle, Fiona Bruce meets a Highland Games commentator who has brought along items including a weighty shot put, a heavy hammer and a brooch presented by Queen Victoria. (R)

9.00 World on Fire. Harry returns to Manchester, but Kasia is determined to leave. Last in the series.

10.00 BBC News; Weather.

10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.30 Match of the Day 2.

11.30 Film: Spooks: The Greater Good. (2015) Spy thriller, starring Kit Harington.

1.10 Weather for the Week Ahead.

1.15 BBC News.

6.05 Gardeners’ World. (R) 7.05 Countryfile. (R) 8.00 Athletics: World Championships 2023. Coverage of day two from Budapest. 1.30 Songs of Praise.

2.05 Film: Shadowlands. (1993)

4.10 Flog It! (R) 4.30 Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev at the Proms. (R)

6.05 Film: The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. (2015) Comedy drama sequel, with Dev Patel and Maggie Smith.

8.00 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder go behind the scenes at Nusfjord Arctic Resort, a preserved 200-year-old cod-fishing village in the Lofoten Islands of Norway.

9.00 Crazy Rich Agents: Selling Dream Homes. Georgie assures her fellow brokers she has clients interested in a country house, but the potential buyers fail to show up. Vanesa is worried her mother is going to cut her off.

10.00 Film: The Power of the Dog. (2021) Premiere. A rancher torments his brother’s new wife and her son until he finds himself exposed to the possibility of love. Western, starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

12.00 Film: Looted. (2019) 1.25

Sign Zone: Wolf. (R) 2.25 Henpocalypse! (R) 2.55 This Is BBC Two.

6.45 Beechgrove Garden. 7.15

Animal Park. (R) 8.00 Sign

Zone: Clive Myrie’s Italian Road

Trip. (R) 8.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News.

1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45

Mastermind. (R) 2.15 Make Me a Dealer. (R) 3.00 Tigers

About the House: What Happened Next. (R) 4.00 Portillo’s State Secrets. (R) 4.30 Flog It! (R)

5.30 Athletics: World Championships 2023. Live coverage of day three.

Tommy Jessop

Tommy Jessop Goes to Hollywood

BBC1, 9pm

Line of Duty actor Tommy Jessop has starred in highprofile TV programmes and short films, and now wants to be a leading man. However, the right roles are not being offered to him. Tommy wants to show that people like him with Down syndrome can play heroes and so, inspired by the advice of his agent, takes matters into his own hands.

7.00 Extraordinary Portraits with Bill Bailey. Traditional portrait painter Mark Draisey paints hospital porter Holly. Last in

7.30 Athletics: World Championships 2023. Further live coverage of day three from National Athletics Centre in Budapest, Hungary, which includes the final of the women’s 100m at 8.50.

9.00 Tommy Jessop Goes to Hollywood. The Line of Duty star tries to create his own action movie.

10.00 BBC News at Ten.

10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.

10.40 Legends of Welsh Sport: Carwyn Williams. (R)

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

11.55 Bill Bailey: Larks in Transit. A stand-up performance at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. (R)

12.55 BBC News.

7.30 Weatherman Walking. Derek Brockway explores an old Roman road leading across the Carneddau Mountains, before heading south to Skomer Island off Pembrokeshire to observe the wildlife. (R)

8.00 Only Connect. The Also Rans take on the Gardners.

8.30 University Challenge.

9.00 Dara O Briain: So Where Were We? A 2022 stand-up performance by the comedian at Dublin’s Vicar Street, in which he talks about a TV show he will never do and an astonishing family revelation.

10.00 The Royle Family. (R)

10.30 Newsnight.

11.10 Weather.

11.15 Film: The Elephant Man. (1980) Fact-based drama, starring John Hurt.

1.15 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R)

2.10 Wolf. (R) 3.10 This Is BBC

Two.

6.00 CITV: Dare Master. 6.05 Lloyd of the Flies. (R) 6.35 Looney Tunes Cartoons. (R)

7.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo!

(R) 7.55 The Rubbish World of Dave Spud. (R) 8.10 Mr Magoo. (R) 8.25 ITV News. 8.30 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show. 9.25 Catchphrase. (R) 10.15 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final 2023. Coverage of the showpiece match (Kick-off 11.00am).

1.45 ITV News; Weather. 2.00 Moneyball. (R) 3.05 You’ve Been Framed! (R) 3.35 Film: Die Another Day. (2002)

6.05 ITV News; Weather.

6.20 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

6.30 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars. With Phil Tufnell, Colin Jackson and Lisa Riley.

7.35 Film: Downton Abbey. (2019) The Crawley family prepares for a royal visit from George V and Queen Mary. Drama based on the TV series, starring Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery and Maggie Smith.

10.00 ITV News; Weather.

10.15 Long Lost Family: False Identities Special. (R)

11.10 DNA Journey. John Bishop and Hugh Bonneville explore their family histories. (R)

12.25 English Football League Highlights. (R) 1.45 Sorry, I Didn’t Know. (R) 2.10 Starstruck. (R)

3.10 Motorsport UK. (R) 3.55 Unwind. 5.05 Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes. (R)

6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.

12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

2.00 James Martin’s Islands to Highlands. (R) 3.00 Lingo. (R)

4.00 Tipping Point. (R) 5.00 The Chase. (R)

6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.

6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.

7.30 Emmerdale. Marlon is nervous while Mary is fibbing.

8.00 Coronation Street. Michael gets embroiled in Cassie’s dodgy dealings, Troy targets Todd with a tempting job offer, Ryan receives a risque request, and Paul notices a further decline in his mobility.

9.00 The Confessions of Frannie Langton. New series. When a wealthy couple are found stabbed to death, their maid is accused of murder. Drama set in London in 1826, starring Karla-Simone Spence.

10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.

10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.

10.45 The Suspect. Thriller, starring Aidan Turner. (R)

11.40 The Suspect. (R)

12.35 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite. (R) 2.15 Starstruck. (R) 3.10 1990 World Cup: England v Cameroon –ITV Football Classics. (R) 4.00 Unwind. 5.35 Made in Britain. (R)

6.00 Cyw. 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw.

9.00 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 9.30 Dau Gi Bach. 10.00 Ffit Cymru 2023. (R)

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.55 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. (R) 10.20

Entertainment News. 10.35

11.00 Gerddi Cymru. (R) 11.30

Ffasiwn Drefn. (R) 12.00 Bwrdd i Dri. (R) 12.30 Hydref Gwyllt Iolo. (R) 1.30 Colleen Ramsey: Bywyd a Bwyd. (R) 2.25 Y Gem Gyda. (R)

3.05 Cerys Matthews a’r Goeden Faled. (R) 3.30 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) 4.00 Arfordir Cymru: Llyn. (R)

4.30 Ffermio. (R) 5.05 Clasuron Cwpan y Byd. (R)

6.40 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R)

7.45 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.

8.00 Am Dro!

9.00 Canu gyda Fy Arwr. (R)

10.00 Rygbi. (R)

11.00 Waliau’n Siarad. (R)

12.05 Diwedd.

Friends. (R) 12.35 Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure. (R) 1.30 Film: Mrs Caldicot’s Cabbage War. (2002) 3.50 Film: Calendar Girls. (2003)

6.00 5 News Weekend.

6.05 Dorset: Country and Coast. A visit to the picturesque county town of Dorchester. (R)

7.00 Primark: How Do They Really Do It? The secrets of the UK’s biggest clothing retailer. (R)

8.00 Million Pound Motorhomes. Two sisters who have started their own camper conversion business.

9.00 Rich Holiday, Poor Holiday. A struggling Salford couple swap holidays with wealthy twins.

10.00 A&E After Dark. (R) 10.50 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. A PC who was attacked by a mugger. (R) 11.50 Surgeons: A Matter of Life or Death. A 66-year-old woman undergoes major heart surgery. (R)

12.50 Entertainment News. 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 Henry VIII: Bloodlust and the

3.10 Film: Stuart Little 2 (2002) 4.50 Film: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 (2013) 6.40 Film: Shanghai Knights (2003) Martial arts comedy sequel, starring Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson. 9.00 Family Guy 11.30 American Dad!

3.50 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 6.00 Rosemary & Thyme 8.00 Long Lost Family 9.00 Inside the Ritz Hotel 10.00 Endeavour 11.55 Upstairs, Downstairs

ITV4

3.30 ITV Racing Live: Sky Bet Sunday Series. The final round from Sandown Park. 7.05 Film: The Scorpion King (2002) Fantasy action adventure, starring Dwayne Johnson. 9.00 Film: Rambo III (1988) Action adventure sequel, starring Sylvester Stallone. 11.05 Film: Carlito’s Way (1993)

E4

4.30 The Big Bang Theory 8.00 Young Sheldon 9.00 Celebs Go Dating 10.05 Film: Blockers (2018)

Film4

3.10 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008) 4.55 Men in Black II (2002)

6.40 Steel Magnolias (1989) Drama, with Sally Field and Julia Roberts. 9.00 Life (2017) Sci-fi thriller, starring Jake Gyllenhaal. 11.05 47 Metres Down (2017)

S4C CHANNEL 5 DIGITAL

6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Ceffylau Cymru. (R) 1.30 Pen/ Campwyr. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r

6.00 Milkshake!: 9.15 Jeremy Vine. 11.15 Storm Huntley. 12.40 Alexis Conran. 1.40 5 News at Lunchtime.

1.45 Home and Away. (R) 2.15

Film: Deadly Divorce Party. (2022)

4.00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea. 5.00 5 News at 5.

6.00 Eggheads. The Hotdogs take on the experts. (R)

6.30 Eggheads. The friends and family team Smokies on the Water take on the experts. (R)

6.55 5 News Update.

7.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. PC Amy Hollis is on the hunt for a drunk driver in Chester. (R)

7.55 5 News Update.

8.00 Police Interceptors. Several units are on the tail of a white van; 5 News Update.

9.00 Court Martial: Soldiers Behind Bars. Staff try to persuade two detainees not to quit the Army.

10.00 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts. Paramedics rush to a 14-year-old girl having a prolonged epileptic seizure. (R)

11.05 Ambulance: Code Red. (R)

12.05 Police Interceptors. (R) 1.00

Farmshop. 9.00 Top Guns: Inside the RAF. 10.00 The Price of Truth. 11.40 24 Hours in A&E. (R) 12.35 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (R) 1.25 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R) 2.20 Film: Gagarine. (2020)

PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 Henry VIII: Endgame. (R) 3.50

wH at ’s on

House of the Dragon Season 2

The director of “House of the Dragon” has given an exciting update to fans regarding the upcoming second season of the show. This spin-off from “Game of Thrones” delves into the Targaryen Family’s story nearly two centuries prior to the events of the original series. Adapted from George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood” novels, the initial season, consisting of 10 episodes, was replete with shocking moments.

However, Claire Kilner, the director, has now disclosed that the highly anticipated second season of the beloved series will comprise eight episodes, a more compact format. Yet, fans need not be concerned about the impact on the show’s quality. Kilner

explained, “Across these eight remarkable episodes, there’s a wealth of unfolding events in each one, and sometimes we’ve struggled to fit everything into a onehour timeframe.” She further revealed that the showrunner, Ryan Condall, has strategically designed the season for a compelling beginning and a satisfying ending. These episodes are brimming with emotional and visually captivating sequences.

This revelation

follows George R.R. Martin’s recent update on the new season. In his reassuring statement, he mentioned that the series is already “halfway done,” allaying worries arising from ongoing actors and writers strikes. Despite these industry challenges, “House of the Dragon” has managed to continue production. Martin clarified, “Among the few productions still in progress is ‘House of the Dragon,’ as you might be aware. This is accurate. I’ve been informed that the second season has reached its midpoint in terms of completion. The scripts had all been finalized months ahead of the onset of the WGA strike, and to the best of my knowledge, no writing has occurred since then.”

Theatre takes Shakespeare to RSC, Stratford-Upon-Avon

PERFORMING a Shakespeare play in Stratford-UponAvon, for the Royal Shakespeare Company has to be top of most actor’s bucket lists.

And now a group of performers from Vision Theatre Company, based in Haverfordwest, can cross that off their listbecause last weekend they did exactly that.

The cast of Vision Theatre Company’s acclaimed production of Much Ado About Nothing last year applied to take the show to the RSC’s summer festival this year - and their application was accepted.

With both the company reconfigured, due to cast availability, and the script condensed - the

actors were restricted to performing the show in just 90 minutes- they made the three-and-a half hour trip to Warwickshire last Sunday afternoon (August 6) where they delighted audiences at The Dellthe RSC’s outdoor space.

VTC’s Much Ado used the traditional text but transported the action to the seedy Hotel Messinasomewhere close to ITV’s hit comedy Benidorm. cThe show was very well received, with an audience of 184 watching the action.

The show featured the acting talents of: Kate Ashley; Sarah Hancock; Katie Hughes; Alex Jukes; Gethin Morris; Becci Rees; Owain Roach; Kat Steed; Erin Thomas; Tom Wears, with director Arron

Evans as a last minute substitution, performing with script-in-hand.

“With a newly-edited 90-minute script and less than 14 hours rehearsal it was a whirlwind process to recapture the essence of our original production and develop something brand new as we tackled performing in an open air theatre - another first for Vision Theatre Company - that we only got to see an hour before we performed”, said Arron.

“The process was a fully collaborative effort and a masterclass in teamwork to develop a final product that saw us draw in a crowd of 184 in the unpredictable British summer weather.”

New event space for Milford Haven

MILFORD HAVEN’S entertainment scene will be taking to new heights with the highly anticipated opening of HANGAR!

This extraordinary venue promises an unparalleled experience for all attendees, setting a new standard for event spaces in the area.

Located at Thornton Industrial Estate, HANGAR boasts an impressive 5000 square feet of space. Inside, visitors will find a fully stocked bar, catering to their beverage needs, and a remarkable 6-meter by 3-meter LED screen that is guaranteed to leave them mesmerised. The sheer scale and technology of this LED screen make it a one-of-a-kind attraction in Pembrokeshire, setting HANGAR apart from any other venue, but the little things haven’t been forgotten with plenty of heating and seating across the venue.

“Milford Haven is undoubtedly experiencing an upward trajectory, and HANGAR is far more than just an ordinary event space,” said Steve

Bartram, Project Coordinator and popular local musician.

“We have really kept the local community in mind, the venue’s location has been meticulously selected to guarantee minimal disruption for residents of the town while ensuring easy accessibility for all visitors to HANGAR from Milford, Neyland, Pembroke and beyond” Steve continued.

Organisers have expressed to not wait too long to experience this limited-time gem!

HANGAR will only host a handful of exclusive events this year, making securing tickets a priority before they disappear

EVENT 1: THE BIG FanZone Area + Okie Kokie Karaoke – Saturday, 16th September

Prepare for an EPIC rugby celebration at HANGAR as it transforms into the ultimate Fan Zone for Wales’ second Rugby World Cup match against Portugal! This event promises an unforgettable experience for all rugby enthusiasts and entertainment lovers.

The centrepiece of

the event is the thrilling Wales vs. Portugal match displayed on the MASSIVE 6 by 3-meter state-of-the-art LED video wall. “We want every moment of action to be larger than life!” said the event organisers. Additionally, live music performances during halftime will keep the party vibes pumping throughout the day.

To cater to hungry fans, HANGAR will host delicious street food traders on-site, offering a fantastic variety of food to satisfy cravings. But the excitement doesn’t end with the rugby match! After the game, the stage will be set for Okie Kokie Karaoke, transforming party-goers into electrifying rockstars with big screens displaying lyrics for a memorable sing-along experience.

EVENT2: The Big All-Day FanZone Area + Oktoberfest Extravaganza – Saturday, 7th October

As the Rugby World Cup action continues to heat up, the party at HANGAR keeps going strong! The Fan Zone

area will be alive with the vibrant sounds of

Throughout the day, visitors can catch THREE thrilling home nations rugby games on HANGAR’s spectacular 6 by 3-meter LED video wall, complete with comfortable seating for the ultimate viewing pleasure. Live music performances during halftime breaks will keep the spirit alive and kicking.

Hungry attendees can indulge in authentic German street food served by specialised traders, perfectly complemented by a selection of traditional German beers to enhance the atmosphere.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! After the rugby matches, Oompah Cymru, Wales’ finest Oompah band will take to the stage promising an unforgettable Oktoberfest experience for all attendees leading lively dancing and crowd participation, creating an atmosphere that Milford Haven won’t forget.

Tickets available for both nights from eventbrite

gaming

watcH tHe trailer Here!

YA see, mate, whether you’re on board with the notion that Paul Verhoeven’s masterpiece, the iconic ‘RoboCop,’ stands tall as one of the absolute bangers from the actionpacked 80s era—and trust me, it absolutely does—you’d be hardpressed to argue against the fact that it ain’t one of the quirkiest darn things to grace our screens.

Picture this, on one hand, you’ve got this fullthrottle, guns-blazing, boom-boom fest that’s chock-full of bullets and brutality. But flip that coin, my friends, and you’ve got yourself a sardonic takedown of American consumerism and those corporate vultures, all dripping in a deliciously odd retro-futuristic aesthetic that’s like nothin’ else. And here’s the kicker, imagine you’ve got another cyborg hand, right, and with that hand, you’re delving into some deep-thought territory about the very essence of humanity. Yeah, that’s RoboCop for ya—packed with heart, believe it or not.

Now, it’s been two whole decades since we last laid eyes on Alex Murphy, the once mildmannered copper who met his maker on the job, only to be reborn as the legendary RoboCop, kickin’ ass and takin’ names. And let’s just shove that 2003 video game adaptation into the mental bin, shall we?

Recreating the enchanting oddity that’s RoboCop ain’t exactly a walk in the park.

But hang tight, my dear compadres, ‘cause here comes ‘RoboCop: Rogue City,’ strutting onto the scene like a warrior prepared to embrace the challenge head-on. Game director Piotr Łatocha’s got a fire in his belly, and he’s shoutin’, “We’re on a mission, mates, to bottle up the true essence of them original RoboCop flicks!” Can you dig that? Their big aim is to dunk players smack dab into the grime-ridden, corrupt world of RoboCop, like you’re struttin’ those streets as the main man himself.

Oh, but don’t get all riled up thinking it’s just gonna be a trigger-happy frenzy, forsaking all the juicy bits that made RoboCop a cult hit. Łatocha’s not ignorin’ the fierce, satirical vibes that flowed through Paul Verhoeven’s OG 1987 masterpiece. Nope, that’s a major vibe they’re keepin’ alive.

Now, ‘Rogue City’ might roll out as a firstperson shooter, but don’t you go forgettin’ that Alex Murphy’s more than just a shootin’ machine. There’s legit police work to be done, and places to explore that ain’t just fancy shooting ranges.

Łatocha’s spillin’ the beans, sayin’, “Sure, shooting’s a big gig in our show, but we’ve also brewed up a chunky storyline and a dash of detective work. Choices,

my friends, choices. Some objectives scream actionpacked shootouts, while others invite you to dabble in some snooping around or shootin’ the breeze with the side characters.”

And here’s a twist for ya, they ain’t tryna just replay the film’s greatest hits. Instead, Teyon’s cookin’ up a brand-new yarn that slots into the good ol’ canon, snugglin’ up between the RoboCop 2 and RoboCop 3 shindigs. Collaboratin’ with MGM, they’ve crafted a tale that nestles all cozylike within the RoboCop universe, but with a fresh spin.

But fret not, aficionados! Familiar sights, sounds, and faces are still on the guest list. You’ll traipse through locations yanked right from the flicks, thanks to some intense scenestudying and a bit of location hopping. And yeah, you’ll duke it out with the old favorites, like them OCP Enforcement Droids. And let’s not forget, you’ll be totin’ that iconic Auto9 pistol, snuggled up all snug in RoboCop’s nifty thigh compartment.

Here’s the scoop on that Auto-9—it’s the main squeeze in ‘Rogue City,’ and you’ll have the chance to pimp it up with OCPmade upgrades as you make your way through the game. But hold on to your hats, ‘cause it ain’t the only weapon in the toy box.

“We wanted to let you wander down the rabbit hole of experimentation,”

spills Łatocha, “so we’ve got ‘round 20 flavors of weaponry for ya to stumble upon.” Some of these beauties might even outshine the Auto-9 before you give it a makeover. It’s your play, your style, your call, my friend.

And hold onto your cybernetic hats, ‘cause RoboCop ain’t done blowin’ your mind yet. Special cybernetic abilities are on the menu, ready to jack up your combat mojo. Picture this—a slow-mo mode that’s like hittin’ the pause button on time when you’re dancin’ in the middle of a firefight.

But wait, there’s more! Loads of active and passive skills are waitin’ for you to gobble ‘em up. Łatocha’s spillin’ the deets, “These upgrades? They’re like a buffet, mate. You get to craft your own gaming experience, however you fancy it.” And hey, you can even soup up these abilities as you make your way through the game. Think of it as power-ups for that unstoppable RoboCop vibe.

So, listen up, my compadres, if ‘RoboCop: Rogue City’ can pull off this grand spectacle, if Teyon can conjure up that magical blend that made the ‘87 gem a freakin’ legend, and if they can slap together a game that’s more fun than a barrel of monkeys? I’ll tell ya right now, we’d snatch that up faster than you can say “Shiny chrome justice!”

witH eddie tHe game guru

Taith o Addasiad Cymraeg Fleabag

fynd yn ôl pob tebyg.

Dywedodd Liam Evans-Ford am y cynhyrchiad.: “Mae Fleabag yn un o sioeau unigol gorau’r 10 mlynedd diwethaf – mae ganddi lais nodedig a hiwmor prin. Mae’n sioe rydyn ni wedi bod yn ei datblygu dros y 2 flynedd ddiwethaf, a gobeithio y byddwn yn cyflwyno fersiwn Cymraeg o sioe sy’n llwyddiant ysgubol i gynulleidfaoedd.

Gymraeg. Ysgrifennwyd a pherfformiwyd y sioe yn wreiddiol gan Phoebe Waller-Bridge yng Ngŵyl

Fringe Caeredin. Wedyn addaswyd y sioe yn gyfres deledu ar y BBC a enillodd wobrau BAFTA, Emmy a Golden Globe.

Mae cynhyrchiad

Theatr Clwyd o Fleabag wedi cael ei addasu gan yr awdur arobryn o Gymru, Branwen Davies (Dirty Protest ac Os Nad Nawr). Mae’r sioe wedi’i hadleoli yng ngogledd Cymru, ac mae’r Gymraeg yn dod â haen newydd o ystyr a dehongliad sy’n unigryw i’r cynhyrchiad yma. Yn perfformio bydd Leah Gaffey (A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Theatr y Sherman), gyda Sara Lloyd (Nyrsys, Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru) cyfarwyddo’r cynhyrchiad newydd cyffrous hon.

Bydd wedyn yn teithio, Theatr y Torch, Sir Benfro (29 Awst), Theatr Mwldan, Aberteifi (12 Medi), , Canolfan y Celfyddydau Aberystwyth (22-23 Medi).

Mae’r sioe fudr, ddoniol, heb ffilter yma’n dilyn siwrnai ddi-drefn Cymraes tuag at fod â dim i’w golli. Efallai ei bod hi’n ymddangos yn or-rywiol, yn emosiynol amrwd ac yn hunanobsesiynol, ond dim ond y dechrau ydi hynny. Gyda pherthnasoedd dan straen a chaffi mewn trafferthion, mae hi ar y dibyn heb unrhyw le i

“Mae’r Fleabag Cymraeg yn dod â haenau newydd o ystyr a dehongliad a fydd yn unigryw i’n cynhyrchiad ni ond yn driw hefyd i’r gwreiddiol. Rydym yn hynod ddiolchgar bod Phoebe wedi caniatáu i ni fynd â’i stori a’i hadrodd o’r newydd yn yr iaith Gymraeg –am fraint, ac am dîm gwych o dîm creadigol o ferched sydd gennym i wneud hynny!”

Dywedodd Branwen Davies: “Gwneud penderfyniadau am y stori gefndir fel bod y gynulleidfa Gymraeg yn gallu darllen rhwng y llinellau am wn i. Mae hi wedi cael ei magu ar aelwyd ddwyieithog lle mae neidio o un iaith i’r llall ar ganol brawddeg yn arferol. Rydw i’n meddwl bod Fleabag yn gyfarwydd ac yn

berthnasol i unrhyw ferch ifanc sy’n ymgodymu â disgwyliadau ac yn

gwthio ffiniau ac yn

cwestiynu ei chredoau a’i gweithredoedd ei hun. Rydw i’n meddwl bod clywed ei meddyliau hi yn y Gymraeg yn

ychwanegu haen gyfoethog arall at adrodd y stori.

“Roedd Phoebe yn hael iawn ac yn amyneddgar ac yn

gwrando ar syniadau ac yn procio a holi ambell beth. Mae’n rhaid ei fod yn brofiad arswydus meddwl bod rhywun ar fin potsian gyda darn o waith sydd mor allweddol

i’ch gyrfa chi ond roedd

hi’n agored iawn ei meddwl ac fe wnaethon ni chwerthin llawer yn trafod rhegfeydd yn y Gymraeg a thermau rhywiol chwerthinllyd!”

Y ddion

Y N

DDIWEDDARACH y flwyddyn yma yma cyhoeddodd Theatr Clwyd ei bod yn

cynhyrchu premiere byd drama gomedi arobryn Phoebe WallerBridge, Fleabag, a fydd yn cael ei haddasu i’r

Renewed calls for changes to in-calf cattle slaughter rules in Wales

Shadow Rural Affairs Minister Samuel Kurtz MS has used the Pembrokeshire County Show as an opportunity to call again for changes to cattle slaughter rules in Wales.

Currently, in-calf cows and heifers who fail bovine TB tests must be culled on farm before giving birth to their calf.

Kurtz has long called for increased flexibility, allowing farmers to isolate the in-calf animal and for it to give birth with dignity before being culled.

Speaking ahead of the Pembrokeshire Show, Samuel Kurtz said:

“Bovine TB has been a defining issue for farmers in West Wales for over 12 years, affecting farm businesses, farmers’ mental health and animal welfare.

“To know that farmers often see their in-calf cows and heifers slaughtered on their farms, in front of their eyes, with healthy calves drowning in their dead mother’s womb,

is a horrific situation which needs to change immediately.

“I’m calling once again on the Welsh Government to give farmers the flexibility

to isolate cattle who have failed tests on farms, allowing them to give birth to healthy calves with dignity. This increases our animal welfare standards and

reduces the massive mental health impact on our hardworking farmers.

“Farming in Wales needs a friend, and I will continue to be that

friend, offering support and championing our incredible farmers and the work that they do.”

Sixty new jobs promised from expansion of Pembrokeshire Creamery

AS THE COUNTDOWN commences for the inauguration of a cutting-edge liquid milk processing facility, Pembrokeshire Creamery is making waves with its latest announcement. Set to be operational in Pembrokeshire by the early months of 2024, this promising endeavour underscores a milestone in dairy processing.

In synchrony with their presence at the upcoming Pembrokeshire County Show on August 16 and 17, Pembrokeshire Creamery is providing an avenue for dairy farmers and potential milk clientele to interact with its top-tier executives. This occasion will offer insights into the forthcoming facility’s operations and its larger vision.

The Bigger Picture:

In its inaugural phase spanning 12 to 18 months, the creamery will boast a capacity to process 60 million litres of milk, gradually ramping up to an impressive 120 million litres annually upon achieving full capacity.

A game-changer for UK supermarkets, this endeavour enables them to cater to Welsh

customers with milk that is locally sourced and processed. This initiative significantly veers away from the present norm wherein Welsh milk undergoes processing in England, amplifying food miles.

Economic Implications and Sustainability: Foregoing the England transit for

bottling will not only diminish food miles but also bolster supply chain efficiency.

Pembrokeshire Creamery’s local approach stands to yield 60 fresh job opportunities in Haverfordwest during its initial phase. This growth, in turn, is set to permeate ancillary sectors, fostering

employment, and stimulating the agrarian economy and regional communities.

Prospective visitors to the Pembrokeshire County Show can meet and engage with the creamery’s management team at Stand A25, steered by Managing Director Mark McQuade.

“The enthusiasm

from supermarkets and wholesalers for Welsh-bottled milk has been heartening,” shared McQuade. “Our participation in the show is geared towards fostering connections, nurturing business ties, and amplifying the Welsh farming sector and rural economy. Our vision is clear: Welsh milk sold in Wales should be a product of Welsh processing.”

Dairy farmers keen on this revolutionary project are encouraged to either meet the team at the Show or initiate contact via pembrokeshire creamery.com.

Pembrokeshire Creamery’s progression has received commendable support from the Welsh Government, the EU RDP-backed Food Business Investment Scheme, and additional financial backing from HSBC.

Pembs BtB Project begins

THE LONGDELAYED Bovine TB project in Pembrokeshire, to explore how a partnership approach can tackle the disease, has begun following the awarding of the contract for its delivery, Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths announced on the eve of the Pembrokeshire Show.

The Pembrokeshire Project is part of the five-year bovine TB Delivery Plan. The Welsh Government published “the Plan” in March.

According to the Welsh Government It will work to tackle deep-seated infection levels in parts of Pembrokeshire, where TB incidence and prevalence have worsened against what

the Welsh Government claims is an overall improving national backdrop.

The Project aims to facilitate collaborative working between vets and farmers. The Welsh Government claims it will empower locally informed decisionmaking and leadership in disease control.

After the tender process’s completion, a project group led by Iechyd Da (Gwledig) Ltd. Work will deliver the Project.

Lesley Griffiths said: “We are very aware of the challenge of TB in cattle and the distress it causes for farmers. This is why we are determined to eradicate bovine TB in Wales as set out in our Delivery Plan, published earlier this year.”

Continuing by

enthusiastically rewriting history, Ms Griffiths continued: “We have made steady progress since 2009, with fewer affected herds and new incidents, but we know there have been challenging infection levels in Pembrokeshire.

“I have always said we cannot do this alone, and partnership working with our farmers and vets is crucial to reach our shared goal of a TB-free Wales. I look forward to seeing the results of the Project and am hopeful it will have a positive impact here and lessons can be learned for the rest of Wales.”

Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Richard Irvine said: “The Project will work with a small sample of farms in Pembrokeshire to

empower vets and farmers to make informed decisions and show leadership in disease control.

“It will develop and implement additional approaches to bovine TB control, over and above the statutory measures currently used in the area.

“The Project will identify residual disease risk in clear testing cattle and develop a pathway for reducing cattle-to-cattle transmission. This will include identifying and managing high-risk animals to slaughter and veterinary oversight of biosecurity practices.

“I’m pleased to see this new industry-led project now underway, which is an exciting example of partnership working.”

Dairy farming under threat, says NFU

A NEW NFU survey shows that Britain’s dairy farmers are being forced to think seriously about their future due to concerns over insufficient returns, volatile markets and the scale of on-farm investment.

The survey of nearly 600 dairy farmers’ intentions reveals 9% of producers believe they are likely to stop producing milk by 2025 – up from 7% last year. A further 23% said they were “unsure” if their business would continue producing milk beyond 2025.

87% of dairy farmers who responded said they are concerned about the impact of government regulation, with feed prices (84%), energy prices (83%) and cash flow and profitability (80%) other key factors that would

curtail milk supplies.

Meanwhile, 91% of dairy farmers said the main barriers to increasing milk production are the scale of investment needed for suitable slurry storage to ensure their farms are compliant.

NFU dairy board chair Michael Oakes said:

“It’s clear that significant inflationary pressures combined with below cost of production prices continue to threaten British dairy farming businesses’ resilience. We are now facing a crisis of confidence among Britain’s dairy farmers.

“The survey results show we need resilient and collaborative dairy supply chains now more than ever. We must reverse this boom or bust trend and invest in our supply chains. New industry-wide regulation on contracts,

Survey

expected to be introduced later this year, must support fairer, more transparent and accountable supply chains. But regulation isn’t a silver bullet.

“With increasing global demand for British dairy, we know that the longterm future is bright for our sector. To ensure we maximise this potential, it’s imperative that government

continues to work with us to ensure we have the right environmental, regulatory and trade framework in place to support the production of high quality, nutritious and sustainable food.”

The Welsh Government’s exciting plans to force farmers off the land and rename rural Wales “Monbiotshire”

August is going to remain a busy month for our teams across Wales as county shows continue to provide opportunities for us to meet with members, stakeholders and politicians.

A topic that we have been discussing with members and politicians continuously for some time are the Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution) (Wales) ‘NVZ’ regulations. Those who were at the Royal Welsh Show on the Monday will have had the opportunity to hear a panel of experts discuss the ins and outs of those regulations in some detail.

We are all too clear that the ‘NVZ’ regulations are having an impact on all farmers across Wales in one way or another. As such, the aim of the seminar was to provide a platform for members to come and hear where we are with the regulations and representatives from ADAS and Kebek explained what farmers need to do to comply with the requirements.

Despite the fact that the regulations are now in the statutory book, we continue to focus our lobbying efforts on amendments and on ways in which the regulations could be made more workable for farmers.

This includes work relating to the proposed licensing scheme for increasing the whole farm nitrogen limit from livestock manures. In our response to the consultation earlier this year, we highlighted how the proposed scheme could act as a significant safety net for a number of farmers in Wales who are already above this limit as long as the criteria is fair and proportionate.

Nevertheless, farmers who are attempting to invest into new infrastructure in order to comply with these regulations continue to face a number of challenges when it comes to finance, tenancies and

planning. We have also highlighted that the Welsh Government should provide farmers with draft maps and pre-filled records to help with compliance and we expect an update on this in due course.

The Welsh Government recently set out a list of areas which they intend to take forward as part of the 4-year review and while most of them are points of clarity, they will also be considering taking some other proposals forward such as alternatives to the closed periods for spreading slurry.

While the Welsh Government is only required to review the effectiveness of the regulations as a means of reducing or preventing water pollution from agricultural sources every four years, EU NVZ regulations differ in that Member States must also take into account the impact on agricultural practices amongst other considerations.

The FUW is fully aware of the complexities of the regulations and the spreadsheet template is complicated. We would encourage those who are having difficulties to speak to their county office who will help with sign-posting members to the right support and available information.

Infrastructure is also a concern. We are not just aware of but have also highlighted these concerns many times in our conversations and engagement with the Welsh Government. The overall advice is that farmers need to ensure that they calculate the size of a required slurry store correctly, taking rainwater and freeboards into account. Farmers have also been advised not to start building until planning permission has been granted.

More information on this will be available to members in due course and we encourage those who are expecting a visit from an inspector to work with them and find a way to be compliant.

Dogs Trust Wales reminds owners to ‘Check the Chip’

AHEAD of Check the Chip Day on 15th August 2023, new data from the Dogs Trust Stray Dog Survey has revealed that approximately 28,015 stray dogs were handled by local authority dog wardens last year.

Thankfully, after spending some time in local authority pounds, around half of these dogs were reunited with their owners. However, despite being microchipped, an estimated 4,352 dogs were unable to be reunited with their owners, simply because the owner’s contact details held on the microchip database were incorrect.

The teams at Dogs Trust Cardiff and Dogs Trust Bridgend are now calling on all owners to ensure that their dog’s microchip details are updated to ensure they can be quickly reunited with their owners if they do go missing.

Since 2016, it has

been a legal requirement that all dogs are microchipped, and the chip must be linked to the owner’s current contact information. In addition, all dogs need to wear a collar and tag that states the name and address of the owner when in a public place, even if microchipped.

For more information about microchipping, visit https://www. dogstrust.org.uk/dogadvice/health-wellbeing/ essentials/microchipping

Around a fifth of all stray dogs handled by dog wardens were passed on to welfare organisations such as Dogs Trust to be rehomed. This includes Sir Wiggles, a two-and-ahalf-year-old crossbreed who recently arrived at Dogs Trust Cardiff as an unclaimed stray dog.

Sir Wiggles is a lovely little lad who is making lots of friends and coming out of his shell more and more every day. As an unclaimed stray dog, the Dogs Trust team have a

limited history of him but is he is super sweet boy. He will need help with his toilet training in his new home and, as there’s no information about his former home, he may be a little worried initially by household items like the washing machine and hoover.

Sir Wiggles really enjoys his doggy friends and would benefit from a dog in the home to help bring him out of his shell. He could live with secondary school aged children.

Kim Davies, Deputy Manager at Dogs Trust Cardiff, said: !“When a dog goes missing it is incredibly stressful for their owners and families. However, ensuring their microchip details are kept up to date gives owners the best opportunity of being reunited with their canine friend should the worst happen, and they go missing.

“Our Stray Dogs Survey found that thousands of dogs are handled by local authority dog wardens

every year. While many are microchipped, a large number of dogs sadly couldn’t be reunited with their owners simply because their microchip details were not up to date.

“It’s simple to update the details for your dog’s microchip; you can do it online, by telephone or by post, depending on which database your chip is registered to. This quick step will give you the best possible chance of being reunited with your dog if the worst does happen.”

Let’s teach kids about world of work from age of three, says Education Minister

CHILDREN should have the chance to learn about the world of work from the age of three onwards, according to Welsh Education Minister Jeremy Miles.

The call came at a meeting of Wrexham Business Professionals (WBP) where he said there was an urgent need to strengthen links between local businesses, schools and colleges.

The group is made up of successful businesses and skilled professionals working together to promote regional prosperity and shine a light on the enterprise and expertise that exists in the region.

Mr Miles told the audience it was time to rethink the conveyor belt strategy where all children from an early age onwards are urged to set their sights on achieving a university place.

He said: “The focus is too much on moving pupils up to further education and securing university degrees.

“While there is a clear place for academia we are losing sight of vocational, and technical requirements, and the value of practical skillsbased apprenticeships.”

He said the Welsh Government was drawing up a new national curriculum for Wales with significant strides forward starting this year and being fully rolled out by 2026.

Far reaching changes will include new GCSE qualifications in subjects such as engineering and manufacturing.

He said: “We need to broaden out the work related experience we give to young people in schools and colleges.

“Vocational qualifications must be more easily navigable and better reflect the needs of employers locally, nationally and globally.”

He said a key to making this successful was to forge consistently strong engagement between employers, schools and colleges and this should be across the board from early years through to college-level.

“Schools should have opportunities for children to learn about the world of work from the age of three.”

This could be achieved by regular school visits to factories and offices, business representatives consistently liaising with and giving talks and demonstrations in schools, more comprehensive work experience schemes, and better education of teachers about the real life skills needed in the today’s workplace.

Mr Miles asked WBP members to think of ways in which they can engage with school pupils and students of all ages.

He added: “I ask you to reflect on your own

career journey, think about what influenced you and inspired you. How can you bring that into schools today? Think of opportunities for how you can proactively help pupils, for schools to link up with you and you to regularly visit them.

“We need to work together in partnership to give young people a sense of hope and entrepreneurship, fire their confidence and excite them with unlimited career challenges.”

Mr Miles was one of two guest speakers at the WBP breakfast meeting and his blueprint for transforming Welsh education was endorsed by Wrexham Senedd member, Lesley Griffiths.

Ms Griffiths, who is Welsh Government Minister for Rural Affairs, North Wales and Trefnydd, invited schools to arrange for pupils to visit the Welsh Senedd in Cardiff so children can see government in action.

“We are after all making important decisions which affect their future. I think it is important for school groups to come and see how those decisions are made.”

She said she felt proud to see that Wrexham was undergoing an important resurgence after being put on the global map thanks to Wrexham AFC’s takeover by

Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

She said: “There is an increasing sense that now is our time. Things are tough and people are feeling the pinch financially but we must not forget that there is still great hope for the future. Wrexham and North Wales have a wealth of resources which we can tap into now and strategise for the long term.”

She pointed to the development of a £5.5m national football museum for Wales, the ongoing success of Tŷ Pawb cultural centre and community hub in Wrexham, improved regional transport links, the expansion of the renewables sector and off shore wind farm development in North Wales as being just a handful of the projects which are securing Wrexham’s potential to be seen as the capital of north Wales.

Calling for businesses to become even greener, she said: “With extremes of weather seen on all our TV screens this summer it is more than evident that we are facing a climate emergency. We need to get to net zero quicker than we thought as the science shows we are increasingly running out of time.”

Children and school leavers were as much aware of this as older generations and it was important to involve

them in the conversation when discussing how the business world should develop in a greener future.

The meeting was chaired by Ian Edwards, a leading member of Wrexham Business Professionals, who said: “We’re hugely grateful to both Jeremy Miles and Lesley Griffiths for taking time out of their busy schedules to speak this morning.

“The message about strengthening the links between education and the world of work is an important one and we must play our part in making sure this happens.

“The new curriculum, with a greater emphasis on vocational qualifications, will ensure that future generations are better prepared and better trained in terms of their careers and in turn that will, I am sure, make Wales a more successful and prosperous nation.”

Fellow member Louise Harper added: “It is encouraging to see that the Welsh Government have adopted a pragmatic approach in matching the curriculum to needs of business and industry.

“It will ensure that young people have a head start in their fledgling careers whilst at the same time ensuring that employers can tap into a ready made pool of suitably trained job candidates.”

Introducing the DB12 Volante

Aston Martin is proud to introduce the new DB12 Volante. Companion to the recently introduced DB12 Coupe – the first in the marques next generation of sports cars, this opentop model combines spectacular Super Tourer performance and handling with the irresistible sensory thrills of roof-down driving.

A class-defining car of unmatched elegance and sporting character, DB12 Volante is the latest addition to Aston Martin’s illustrious tradition of high-performance convertibles. Timeless qualities of style and craftsmanship have been revitalised by advanced technologies and state-of-the-art engineering, while the driving experience has been honed to its keenest possible edge.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Amedeo Felisa, said: “For many of our customers,

roof down driving is the greatest pleasure. Aston Martin Volantes have captured that emotion and expressed it in unique style for more than six decades. With the new DB12 Volante we have changed the rules, creating a car that intensifies those feelings by preserving all the purity and exceptional sporting capabilities of the DB12 Coupe. A rare and true sporting convertible in every respect, this is a car to challenge preconceptions and find a new generation of Volante customer”.

Developed in parallel with its Coupe stablemate, DB12 Volante boasts the same game-changing design, engineering and technology advances made by this latest evolution of Aston Martin’s most distinguished nameplate. With class-leading power and performance and purebred sports car dynamics, it is a

transformative evolution. One that unashamedly positions the DB12 Volante as a true driver’s car first and foremost.

The foundation of this focus on uncompromised performance and handling is the DB12’s exceptionally rigid bonded aluminium structure. Not only was this engineered to capably support the new level of dynamics on DB12 Coupe, but also to deliver the same unrivalled driving experience for DB12 Volante.

To match vehicle level capability, the focus was on the detail engineering and specification of all elements of the Volante’s underbody. Key structural elements, such as the rear suspension upper mounting points and lateral connections, as well as performance additions, including the engine cross brace, boost DB12 Volante global torsional stiffness by near 5%.

Of equal importance

for vehicle integrity and dynamic performance, the mounting points for all suspension attachments were extensively upgraded laterally (140% on the front axle).

These changes, in line with the development of the DB12 Coupe, allowed the use of a nonisolated steering column and complementary steering and damper tuning to deliver precise on and off-centre steering connection with class-leading linearity of vehicle response.

Thanks to changes to underbody components, including the engine cross brace, DB12 Volante sees a 3.7% increase in global torsional stiffness, along with focussed improvement in lateral stiffness and gains in suspension performance and refinement. A nonisolated steering column and a stiffer front axle (+140%) contributes to improvements in on and

off-centre steering feel and an overall sense of driver connection. The Volante’s performance credentials speak for themselves. Best-in-class potency from its 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine endows DB12 Volante with formidable performance and a fabulous soundtrack. Tuned by Aston Martin engineers to deliver classleading 680PS/671bhp at 6000rpm and 800Nm/590lb ft between 2750-6000rpm, this exceptional handbuilt engine features modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling to achieve an increase in output of 34% compared with the DB11. Accelerating from 0-60mph in 3.6 or 0-62mph in 3.7sec and powering on to a top speed of 202mph, the DB12 Volante’s performance is truly breathtaking.

Board consults on children’s services cut

LESS than two weeks remain to share your views on urgent and emergency children and young people’s paediatric services at Withybush and Glangwili hospitals. From the 26 May this year, and ending on the 24 August 2023, Hywel Dda University Health Board has invited staff, service users, volunteers, members of the public, and partner organisations, to share their views on how best to provide these services, following a series of temporary changes made since 2016. This is part of the health board’s wider strategy to improve health and care in the region.

Following the temporary changes to paediatric services made since 2016, we now need to implement a longer-term solution that will be in place until the proposed new

urgent and planned care hospital is developed. We have worked with our clinical and paediatric teams to identify the options for the services in the future and have three options that we would like your views on. At this stage, we do not have a preferred option for how urgent and emergency paediatric services at

Withybush Hospital and Glangwili Hospital will be delivered.

For all three options, it is important to note that access to children’s emergency care will be retained at Glangwili Hospital’s emergency department, and minor injuries for children will continue to be treated at both Withybush and Glangwili hospitals.

Before making any final decisions, the Board will consider all your feedback at the Board meeting towards the end of 2023 alongside all other evidence and relevant information collated during the process so far.

Lee Davies, Hywel Dda University Health Board Executive Director of Strategy

and Planning, explains:

“A number of in-person and online consultation events have been hosted across our health board locations, and we would like to thank everyone who has already participated. As the consultation period draws to a close, we would like to ensure we capture feedback from as many people as possible in our communities and encourage individuals and organisations to complete our questionnaire before 24 August.”

Details of the consultation, including copies of the consultation documents in a range of formats, and details of how to share your views, are available on the Health Board’s website: https:// hduhb.nhs.wales/ about-us/healthier-midand-west-wales/futurechildren-services/ questionnaire/

St John ambulance cymru lifts pressure off wales’ mental health services

St John Ambulance Cymru are working with the Welsh Ambulance Commissioner to provide quicker transportation for mental health patients in Welsh communities.

HSt John Ambulance Cymru’s Taith Dda scheme has been commissioned as a pilot by the Ambulance Commissioner since April 2023. The scheme aims to provide a transport service for those in Mental Health Crisis with the aim of reducing waiting times for conveyance and improving both staff and patient experiences.

The Scheme has meant that a reduced number of non-critical patients are having to be transported by the police, the Welsh Ambulance NHS Services Trust and by local Approved Mental Health Professionals; lifting significant pressure from these

vital services.

The pilot is operating across Wales and provides a mix of day and night support. Transport requests come via health board staff and requests are prioritised by crisis teams to optimise St John Ambulance Cymru’s resources.

St John Ambulance Cymru assists with transporting patients between hospitals, from their home to hospital and vice versa. Calls are checked to ensure they are suitable for St John Ambulance Cymru transport and to ensure a police or ambulance response is not more appropriate.

Helen Coulthard, Head of Ambulance Operations at St John Ambulance Cymru said: “I am so proud that we are able to support the Taith Dda Mental Health response service in collaboration with the Welsh Ambulance Commissioner.

By reducing transportation time for individuals requiring mental health support, we enable them to receive a more timely intervention at such a critical time. By doing so, we hope that this support contributes positively to their recovery journey.”

St John Ambulance Cymru looks forward to improving the service further and has recently partnered with various mental health charities to help educate staff about different mental health conditions.

The charity is committed to enhancing the health and wellbeing of people across Wales, and their assistance with Taith Dda is one of the many ways they are fulfilling their goal. To find out more about St John Ambulance Cymru’s lifesaving work in the communities of Wales, please visit www.sjacymru.org.uk.

Withybush: Health Board wants to hear from you before it cuts another service

£800 raised for bereavement midwifery team at Glangwili

RHYS Munday and Molly Richards have raised a fantastic £800 for the bereavement midwifery team at Glangwili Hospital.

Rhys and Molly raised the funds in memory of their son, Kyler Rhys.

Kyler Rhys sadly passed away at 29 weeks. The couple wanted to raise the funds as a thank you for the fantastic care they received during an incredibly tough time.

Molly said: “After a very complicated pregnancy, our baby boy Kyler Rhys entered the world asleep on 18th of October 2022.

“I was able to stay in hospital with my partner and my Mam and had the privilege of having the bereavement room to ourselves, which is purposely built for families that are sadly in the same situation as we were.

“Every single midwife who cared for me made our experience as posi-

tive as humanly possible. Our journey as a family would not have been half as positive as it was, and this was truly down to what the midwives and staff did for us.”

Molly Taylor, Midwife, said “I’m so proud of Molly and Rhys and how much they have raised in their son’s name. It’s really incredible, thank you.”

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

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

Welsh firms win more than £1m of new business

MORE than £1m worth of new business has been secured by the Welsh delegation to the Paris Air Show in June with over £3.6m in further opportunities also identified, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething has revealed today.

The Paris Air Show is the largest aerospace event in the world, attracting over 2,400 exhibitors from 49 countries and 139,000 trade visitors from 185 countries.

Wales is a centre of excellence for aerospace manufacturing and MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) related activities, with more than 160 companies employing more than 23,000 people across the country, accounting for 10% of the UK’s aerospace industry.

At this year’s show, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething led a delegation of 7 Wales- based companies and universities, Cardiff Airport and Aerospace Wales.

The Welsh Government pavilion at the Paris Air Show helped companies exhibit their products and services to prospective buyers – helping to promote Wales’ aerospace and space capabilities to a global audience.

One company to secure a deal at the show is Metrology Engineering

Services (MES). Set up in April 2023 with support from the Welsh Government, the Bro Tathan-based company is a leading service provider in reverse engineering, 3D laser scanning, damage assessment, and quality inspection.

During the Paris Air Show, the company signed deals worth around £450,000. The new contacts the business made at the show is helping lay the ground for future deals. MES had already secured a number of export deals before Paris, and these latest deals will help grow the business further.

MES currently has 8 employees and, as it continues to grow, is looking to double its headcount by the end of the year.

Steve Beasley, CEO of MES said: “The support I’ve received from the Welsh Government has been instrumental in getting my business started. By supporting me to attend trade shows like the Paris Air Show, I have been able to meet new business partners both in the UK and from overseas. These contacts will ensure that I can keep growing my business.

“Trade shows, both in the UK and overseas are

a great way to explore the market, meet new contacts and to promote my business. Exhibiting as part of a group on the Wales stands provided me with the opportunity to network with like-minded companies and help promote Wales.”

During the show, TRIUMPH Group, a global leader in uplocks and actuation products with a focus on landing gear solutions, announced a MOU with Stirling Dynamics – with a focus on joint development of ElectroMechanical Actuation solutions. TRIUMPH also met with several potential

new business partners, with the company identifying many new business opportunities.

David Chapman, Business Development Director from TRIUMPH said: “Being included in the Wales stand at the Paris Air Show provided us with a great opportunity to meet with existing and new business contacts and to reiterate that TRIUMPH is a key contributor in the Wales’ aerospace sector.

“We are looking forward to participating in the next trade show and securing more business for our operations in Wales.”

Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething said: “The Welsh Government is committed to helping Welsh companies grow and thrive, supporting them to create new jobs in the industries of the future.

“The Paris Air Show was a great opportunity to promote Wales’ capabilities in the aerospace sector and as a key location for inward investment, innovation and trade. I’m delighted the businesses that took part in the Welsh Government trade mission are already benefiting significantly from their presence at the show.

“This is a prime example of the positive work the Welsh Government is undertaking to promote Wales to the world.”

Isuzu Extends Official Supplier Status with WRU

Motoring brand Isuzu has extended its Official Supplier status with the Welsh Rugby Union as a new twoyear deal has been signed.

The partnership, which will run from 2023 to 2025, includes the supply and delivery of a large fleet of Isuzu D-Max pickups used across the business; offering vital support to the WRU’s community department, enabling the team to deliver exceptional rugby activities across Wales.

George Wallis, Isuzu Head of Marketing, said, “This latest agreement means the Isuzu brand will have been continually associated with the WRU for eight years.

“Rugby is an intrinsic part of Welsh life, and we are delighted to continue our relationship

with an institution which shares our values of dependability, toughness and

commitment. We are looking forward to future success on the field.”

This new

announcement extends the existing relationship between the WRU and Isuzu which first joined forces in 2017, launching with a four year deal, and at that point, the biggest shirt partnership deal in the WRU’s history.

That initial deal saw Isuzu take front of shirt sponsorship for both men’s and women’s senior sides until 2021.

“We are delighted to welcome Isuzu back as an Official Supplier to the Welsh Rugby Union,” said WRU interim CEO Nigel Walker.

“We have a successful history of collaboration together, and look forward to seeing what the next two years with Isuzu have in store .”

Kurtz raises a glass to success of local brewery

Local Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz recently toasted the success of Tenby Harbwr Brewery on a visit as the UK Government announces a boost to the pub and brewing trade.

The family-run brewery and pubs are a thriving success in Tenby, supporting the fantastic tourism and hospitality industries Pembrokeshire has to offer.

With the UK Government’s tax cut for 38,000 pubs, the simplification of alcohol duty and a new Small Producers Relief, the visit made a great opportunity to discuss these changes and their impact.

Harbwr‘s locally made, fantastic quality beers are yet another stellar example of what Pembrokeshire has to offer within the hospitality industry to both day visitors, and those visiting Wales for a longer period.

Commenting on the

visit, Kurtz said: “Small independent breweries only thrive when love, care, and attention to detail are put into every single brew. That’s why Harbwr is such a success and draws revellers from all over to enjoy their beers in Tenby, or to order online via their website.

“Our local economy is made stronger by entrepreneurs, and here in Pembrokeshire we have some of the very best. With changes from the UK Government to support breweries and pubs, and the fantastic beers and pubs we have to offer, I hope we can all raise a glass to toast the great work they do in our local economy and local community.”

Speaking on the UK Government’s announcement, Barry Watts, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Society of Independent Brewers, said:

“These are the most significant changes to

the alcohol duty system for generations which will have far reaching implications for what we order in the pub and what appears on the shop shelves. It is the culmination of five years of consultation on the future of Small Breweries’ Relief – a scheme that has made the huge growth of craft breweries possible over the past twenty years. These changes will finally address the “cliff edge” which was a barrier to small breweries growing and build on the scheme’s success by applying it to other alcoholic products below 8.5%.

“A key part of the new system is the draught duty relief, which is a gamechanger for the sector and allows for the first time a different duty to be paid for what is sold to our pubs. This will hopefully over time encourage more people to support their pubs which are at the heart of our local communities.”

Tory NHS head

for? What are our beliefs, principles and values?

The Preamble to the Liberal Democrat Constitution clearly states “The Liberal Democrats exist to build and safeguard a fair, free and open society, in which we seek to balance the fundamental values of liberty, equality and community, and in which no-one shall be enslaved by poverty, ignorance and conformity.”

The Liberal Democrats stand firm on 7 core values. Each of which underpin the party’s specific policy proposals. These are as follows:-

1. LIBERTY - We believe in the right of individuals to make their own decisions about how they live their lives, as long as they do not cause harm to others. Our aim is to empower and support individuals to pursue their dreams, to make the most of their talents and to live their lives as they wish.

2. EQUALITY - We stand by the idea that without equality, true liberty cannot be realised. This requires an active state to: ensure that no one is held back by poverty, poor health, or discrimination, including on the basis of personal characteristics or beliefs; provide access to education or training, and other public services, including a welfare safety net; and guarantee that everyone enjoys equality before the law.

politics3. DEMOCRACY - We understand that through democracy, every citizen is empowered to make their voice heard, without being dominated by entrenched interests or the power of money; checks and balances, so that those in power cannot abuse their positions for personal gain or political advantage; and a plurality of views, where no individual or organisation is deterred from speaking truth to power.

4. COMMUNITY - We believe it is important to provide support for a diverse range of organisations that enable individuals to join together in the pursuit of common goals or activities; and the decentralisation of political and economic

power to local government and the nations and regions of the UK.

5. HUMAN RIGHTS

- Upholding these values of individual and social justice, we reject all prejudice and discrimination based upon race, ethnicity, caste, heritage, class, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, gender identity or sexual orientation and oppose all forms of entrenched privilege and inequality.

6. NTERNATIONALISMWe support a fairer and more equal, tolerant and connected world and collaboration with the UK’s neighbours - including, ultimately, re-joining the EU - in guaranteeing peace and security, tackling the climate and nature emergencies, standing up to corporate power and spreading prosperity around the world.

7. ENVIRONMENTALISM -

We value the importance of acting at home and internationally to promote environmentally sustainable means of production and consumption and living in harmony with nature.

With a General Election due by January 2025 at the very latest, the 4 Parliamentary by-election gains made in the current Parliament shows that the Liberal Democrats have a brighter future, when you look at the Tories who instead of presenting bold policies are following populist policies to try to retain power.

And the Labour Party? They may be over 20 points ahead in the polls, but that is primarily due to them NOT being the Tory Party. Sir Keir Starmer appears to lack the charisma that Tony Blair had in 1997.

With global heating being a major issue affecting the future of our planet, now is not the time to be back tracking on climate change policies.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has snubbed an offer from Westminster to help patients on waiting lists get treatment faster.

Or at least that’s the claim the Conservative Party is keen to peddle to voters.

The Conservatives have homed in on Welsh Labour’s dismal record managing Wales’s public services as a stick to beat Keir Starmer ahead of the next election.

Mr Barclay made his seemingly generous offer, saying he is “open to requests” from patients in Wales to be treated by NHS England amid record waiting lists.

The UK Health Secretary invited Welsh Ministers

to discuss “what lessons can be learnt” from the different approaches the UK’s administrations have taken to health services.

Underpinning the “offer” is a claim that delays in the Welsh NHS are worse than in England.

An official Department of Health and Social Care press release said “significant variations” existed between UK nations’ waiting list numbers.

That is true.

At least, it is true that each UK administration counts patients on waiting lists differently. In addition, Welsh waiting lists are falling. In England, waiting lists are rising. In June, over 7.5m

people were on an NHS waiting list in England.

The Department of Health claimed: “In Wales, more than 73,000 people are waiting over 77 weeks for treatment, and at least 21,600 people are waiting over 78 weeks for an outpatient, day case or inpatient appointment in Scotland.”

“In England, waiting times for patients over 78 weeks have been virtually eliminated.”

That’s all very well, but Wales counts patients waiting for treatment differently from England.

Every patient is counted as an individual entry on each patient pathway they’re on. Someone suffering from multiple

Eluned Morgan: Railed against Conservative “stunt”

line grab backfires

BLUE VIEW

COUnTy paUl DaVIES MS

and I look forward to doing the same again this year.

Over the two days, I hope to speak to as many residents as possible about some of the issues that matter to them - on everything from water quality in Pembrokeshire, to the future of children’s hospital services at Withybush hospital, to the new 20mph speed limits that have been rolled out across Wales. I’ll be holding an advice surgery on the Welsh Conservative stand for members of the public to come and chat to myself and my colleagues and I’ll be at the Show on both days.

conditions will be on more than one waiting list. So, one patient on four separate lists will show up four times.

In England, once a person is listed to see a consultant on one ailment, they drop off the waiting list for any other illnesses or conditions from which they suffer.

“Wales includes more referrals in its waiting times statistics than England does,” a Welsh Government spokesperson said.

“Long waiting times are falling monthly in Wales and have more than halved in the past year.

“The overall growth in waiting lists in Wales has been smaller in Wales than in England over the last 12 months – it

grew by 3.6% in Wales and 12.1% in England. Wales has also outperformed England in major emergency department performance in nine out of the last ten months.

“In Wales, patients are treated according to clinical urgency.”

Speaking to Sky News, Wales’s Health Minister, Eluned Morgan, said: “I think it’s a cheap political stunt for the summer.

“It seems very odd for a man who’s got 7.5 million people waiting on lists in England to be offering this kind of service beyond his borders,” Baroness Morgan said.

“Where on earth he’d find the capacity from I don’t know, but if the offer’s free then

I certainly would want to take it up but my guess is this is just a cheap political stunt.”

Eluned Morgan added: “We are challenged in terms of waiting lists in Wales, but we count very differently. We include for example the number of people waiting for therapies and the number of people waiting for diagnostics. None of that is counted [in England], so you do have to compare like with like, and we don’t do that when it does come to waiting lists.”

That might appear self-serving. To an extent, it is selfserving. However, when it comes to the different methodologies governments use, it is

spot on.

Wales Secretary David TC Davies insisted his Cabinet colleague’s invitation was an attempt to “put people before politics”, telling Times Radio many of his constituents (Monmouth) say they would “love” to be treated in England.

However, Baroness Morgan acidly observed: “In the past, we used to have weekly meetings with UK health ministers, but since Steve Barclay’s been in power since October, we’ve had two.

“So this is a man who suddenly seems very converted to the cause of devolution when he wants to score a political point.”

that. However, the Welsh Government’s targets are arbitrary and ones which could threaten the future of some food producers in Pembrokeshire – and right across Wales.

Now, as many of you will know, the County Show is more than just a local agricultural fixture. It also gives me the opportunity to meet up with local charities and third sector organisations to hear more about their current projects and the work they’re looking to do over the coming months. The Community Zone is a fantastic space, filled with local charities and organisations that are working hard all year round to support people and provide advice. It’s always a particular highlight of mine to visit the Zone and hear more about the inspiring work that is taking place across Pembrokeshire

The Show boasts that it has something for everyone and it really does – whether that’s sampling some of Pembrokeshire’s finest local produce, watching some of the competitions, shopping or just walking around and catching up with friends and family. By the time this article is published, the Show will have finished, and I have no doubt it would’ve been another outstanding event. County Shows like Pembrokeshire’s promote everything that is great about our county and our way of life and so I say a big thank you to everyone who has worked hard to put the Show together – it takes an army of volunteers and groups to make the Show what it is and we’re all very grateful for their time, hard work and commitment. Here’s to the Pembrokeshire County Show – long may it continue!

I recently visited Dragon LNG’s new solar farm at the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Milford Haven. The solar farm is part of their move toward becoming Net Zero by 2029.

I heard about Dragon LNG’s awardwinning Darwin project, working with Pembrokeshire College and others to engage with around 3,500 learners a year – over 70,000 since it started in 2005.

Lamphey School pupils will take part in the company’s first renewables workshop. I hope it inspires the next generation of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) specialists –both boys and girls.

I also met the Pembroke Town Walls Trust to discuss their plans for the long term restoration and management of Pembroke’s heritage stone walls. They are developing a training programme in heritage stone masonry together with Pembrokeshire College, the Tywi Centre in Carmarthen and the CITB, working with Oliver Coe, stone mason. Their ‘More than our Walls’ programme of community engagement includes training local guides to give guided walks about the history of the walls, talks, and other events.

I spoke in a recent Senedd debate on rural communities.

Partnership funding from the EU, Welsh Government and others created the Pembrokeshire Food Park in Withybush, attracting Pembrokeshire Creamery’s £17 million investment and the creation of 80 new jobs in Haverfordwest.

Since Brexit, UK Government decisions have cost Wales £1.1 billion – compared to the EU structural and rural funds – despite

promises that we would not lose a penny.

As someone who grew up, worked and raised my family in rural Wales I am keen to see communities where young people feel confident about planning their futures.

Farming and tourism are important, but so are manufacturing and green technology, focusing on better jobs, better skills and better connected communities.

This month the Senedd voted to pass the first made-in-Wales Agriculture Bill. The Bill will give Welsh Ministers the powers to provide a system of support to farmers, working effectively to tackle the climate and nature crisis that threaten food production here in Wales.

A new national, 24/7 free service for people needing urgent mental health support has been launched across Wales. Call 111, select ‘option 2’ and you will be transferred to a dedicated member of a local mental health team, offering compassionate support.

Finally, July marks the 75th anniversary of our NHS. For all its challenges, this is a time to celebrate what the institution represents, its values, and the people within the services who are dedicated to providing care. We all have milestones in our lives where the NHS has been there for us and our loved ones. Here’s to the future of our National Health Service.

Mathematics and the New Power Generation

ARITHMETIC.

Simple arithmetic.

Some surprising figures emerge when you look at the arithmetic about renewable energy.

Let’s look at some base data first.

THE DATA

There are 25 million homes in England and Wales.

There are 11,500 wind turbines onshore and off across England and Wales.

Around 60 turbines generate enough power (supposedly) for 48,000 homes.

11,500 divided by 60 is approximately 192. 192 x 48,000 = approximately 9.2m.

So: of 25 million homes, 37% can be powered solely by wind.

There are around 1,000 solar farms.

Each 25-acre solar farm can (supposedly) provide enough power for approximately 1,500 homes. According to Greenpeace, in 2022, the number of acres of England and Wales covered by solar farms was around 57,000.

If Greenpeace’s claim is accurate, that means approximately 5m UK homes can be wholly powered by solar energy.

We now have over 14m homes in England and Wales that can be wholly powered by wind and solar renewables.

In addition, a further 1.3m homes have solar panels installed. If those homes are wholly efficient, 15.3m out of 25 million homes in England and Wales can be powered by existing renewable energy infrastructure.

Rounding down: 60% of all homes in England and Wales should be powered by renewable energy.

THE MIX

If the claims made for renewable energy are true, that is.

They’re not.

Instead of 60% of England’s and Wales’s domestic energy being supplied by solar and wind energy, UK Government

statistics show the amount of solar and wind energy in the domestic mix was around 23% on Tuesday, August 15.

That suggests two things:

Claims made for renewable energies’ abilities to deliver anything like their claimed outputs (x many homes per development) should be taken with a hefty pinch of salt; and

Renewables are fundamentally inefficient.

There are other interlocking problems.

Firstly, the National Grid is not designed to cope with renewable energy.

Secondly, the problem of storing energy generated from renewables so it can be released to the National Grid as and when needed.

Thirdly, the National Grid is always on. Renewable energy isn’tisn’t if the wind doesn’tdoesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine.

Nuclear energy cannot bridge the energy demand gap.

Although eight Advanced Gas Cooled reactors supplied over 15% of energy demand on August 15, those are ageing facilities approaching the end of their operational lives. Replacement technology, advanced or small modular reactors, will not come on stream until the next decade, even though they’re in use in many other countries. The next generation of large nuclear power stations is hopelessly over-budget and overdue.

Large-scale biomass energy makes a puny contribution to the UK’s energy mix. It’s also about

as green as burning down a rainforest with lignite.

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE

Superficially, hydropower (that is, generation from river flow) is attractive. Wales is wet and has a lot of water. However, delivery at scale will take time and prove - at least - highly contentious. Let’s start with a thought exercise to demonstrate why: which river are you prepared to see dammed and have a new reservoir flood the valley behind? Teifi? Cleddau? Tywi? In addition, how many thirdsector bodies, special interest groups and voluntary bodies - mostly funded by the Welsh Government - would object to such a plan?

The big prize in renewables is blue energy.

There are different strands. Tidal lagoon energy needs heavy public subsidies. It also has a massive in-going carbon debt.

The much-vaunted Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon was always pie in the sky. Its popularity in the Senedd said more about MSs’ detachment from economic reality than the project’s value. A welltargeted inquiry by the House of Commons Welsh Affairs Select Committee exposed the Lagoon’s folly and Welsh politicians’ narrowness and naivety.

In the 2010s, Pembrokeshire experienced a second string of undersea tidal flow turbines. A tidal generator, which its promoters claimed could power thousands of homes, was sunk into Ramsey Sound weighed down by

hundreds of thousands of pounds in public money. It broke down almost immediately.

An alternative programme of marine testing projects has produced promising results.

Wave power is the big kahuna burger. Wave energy can produce utilityscale power and works well with other renewables like floating offshore wind (FLOW). It could be a renewable energy gamechanger. Pembrokeshire is at the technology’s cutting edge.

MICROPOWER AND THE FUEL GAP

As anyone but the most deluded eco-fantasist knows, the UK cannot just turn off its reliance on fossil fuels.

Local micro-generation projects could address some rural communities’ needs, but the lead-in time for those projects is counted in years, not weeks or months. The other part of that equation is the speed of delivery. Even the smallest development takes time to work through the planning system. For starters, domestic heating and cooking depend on gas as a fuel.

In rural Wales - especially Pembrokeshire - homes not connected to the gas mains rely on fuel oil or LPG.

Secondly, until reliable replacement energy sources are on stream, people in the UK will need energy from fossil fuels to live. All the orange powder thrown on snooker tables in the world will not change that fact.

Council accused of “gross dereliction of duty” in row over free PPE for vulnerable people

IN THE second part of a series of articles, YesCymru Director, Geraint Thomas, asks who cares about Wales? Who cares enough about who governs us and how we are governed?

Despite scoring a record for a Senedd election, voter turnout was just 46.6% in the May 2021 Senedd elections – far behind turnout in England and Scotland.

keenly that Westminster treats Wales poorly. They implicitly accept that Wales has a government and, as a result, are more likely to believe that Wales should stand on its own and divest itself of Westminster rule completely.

A council has been blasted for refusing to supply vulnerable people with free personal protective equipment even though it’s been paid for by the Welsh Government.

Denbighshire County Council has been accused of a “gross dereliction of duty” by social care champions Care Forum Wales (CFW) after it sent an email to care providers informing them it would no longer distribute PPE to them.

At a time when Covid was still a health risk with a rising number of cases again, CFW chair Mario Kreft MBE said the blatant disregard for the safeguarding of vulnerable people was a further demonstration that the authority was not fit for purpose.

Mr Kreft spoke out after the council sent a message to providers on July 25 blaming the Welsh Government for failing to fund the storage and the distribution of the PPE, including face masks, latex gloves and disposable aprons.

The message added: “On the basis that the funding has ceased and Denbighshire is experiencing significant budget pressures, we are now unable to continue with the storage and

distribution of PPE and this is with immediate effect.”

The PPE is provided free by the Welsh Government to all local authorities in Wales at a time when Covid-19 is resurgent again.

Over 108 people in Wales tested positive for the virus last week when there were seven deaths linked to the disease but those figures are expected to rise in the autumn and winter.

Mr Kreft said: “Denbighshire is a council which pays the lowest residential care fees in Wales, £101.69 a day and that’s considerably less than their councillors get as a day rate for expenses.

“They’ve been given this PPE free by the Welsh Government and they’re not prepared to make any effort to get that to vulnerable people and the registered staff who are caring for them.

“Care homes and home care companies are supposed to be able to have the PPE free of charge.

“The cost of providing it themselves has not been factored into the fees they receive from Denbighshire so the council should either review the decision or recalculate fees to take

account of costs of PPE.

“It’s shocking and a dereliction of duty by the authority and they should be held to account for it.

“Local authorities have a statutory duty to provide services and here where they’re paying the lowest amount for care in Wales and they’ve got the chance to assist the private care sector they show their institutional prejudice.

“It’s just not acceptable and people are entitled to ask the question, ‘Is Denbighshire the right organisation to ensure these vulnerable people are properly protected?’.

“Whoever has made this decision needs to be held accountable if this leads to illness and death.

“We know Covid infections are going to go up and everyone over 65 is going to be offered a vaccine – that tells me this virus hasn’t gone away and it is going to kill people.

“It’s a safeguarding matter and what Care Forum Wales will do is ensure that whoever is responsible for that decision is held accountable for not passing on vital PPE.

“If there was partnership working they would be co-operating with care providers to ensure vital, life-saving

equipment was getting to where it is needed.

“This is an example of a system of social care where the Welsh Government says one thing and a local authority like Denbighshire says another and the care providers and vulnerable people are left in limbo.

“It’s an indictment of the current system and the public have a right to ask if vulnerable people are safe in the hands of a local authority which pays its councillors more in expenses than it pays for the care of vulnerable people.

“You would think people would expect local authorities would do everything they could to support the providers looking after some of the most vulnerable people in the community rather than treat them with contempt.

“It’s an example of the broken system of social care in Wales and shows it’s not safe in the hands of authorities like Denbighshire.”

Denbighshire is one of three councils in Wales to announce they can no longer afford to store and distribute PPE provided free by the Welsh Government - the others are Merthyr Tydfil and Newport.

While last week’s article focused on how history has demonstrated the extent to which Wales has been exploited and neglected from Westminster in particular, this article will show, how the lack of understanding, awareness and enthusiasm that flows from our own political institutions here in Wales, poses a real threat to our democracy.

As previously alluded to, party politics might well be a “murky soup”, but the question of who makes decisions for Wales is clear enough: the ruling Conservative party in Westminster and the Labour administration in Cardiff Bay. Further down the food-chain it is less clear; apart from the odd charismatic opposition leader, who knows anything about who is who, and what is what?

Do most of us actually know the difference between party, Government or Parliament in Wales? Do we really know where Westminster responsibility ends and the Senedd begins? How Welsh Government projects, statutory obligations, and regulations interact with governance? Can we grasp the absurdities and inadequacies of the devolution settlement as it stands today?

The lack of understanding of the basic functions of our democratic institutions is itself a threat to our devolved structures. But as time goes by, understanding improves, and so does confidence. Those who’ve grown up with the Welsh Government feel far more

The Senedd is yet to win over the hearts and minds of all the citizens of Wales. A weak press and patchy broadcast media make it hard to cut through the confusion of overlap in political authority. And harder still for the Senedd and its politicians to communicate broadly, easily, and well with the whole of Wales. Even so, Wales has democratically and emphatically put its weight behind the Senedd. Twice.

Over the past few decades the Assembly and Senedd have changed the landscape of Welsh politics. In recent years, the people of Wales have seen the Westminster emperor in all its naked “glory”. Its cover has been blown. Self-interest, and the interest of the dominant partner in the Union, are clear to anyone who takes the time to look. This will never change, whatever colour or stripe the government in London takes.

Meanwhile, the challenges that the Cardiff Bay administration faces are numerous. Reversing decades of economic and social decline. The need for investment and radical reform of health, social care, transport, and education. With true power, the devil in every detail of these challenges would be surmounted by Wales.

Small is beautiful in the modern era of government. And knowing and understanding all the dusty corners of our own nation, as we Welsh do, is an enormous asset in the creation of effective longterm solutions for bringing success, growth, health, and well-being to us all. But first, we must set ourselves free.

For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk

death notices

BARBARA DUNN

DUNN Barbara of Haverfordwest, formerly of Cardiff Barbara passed away peacefully on the 4th August, 2023 aged 83 years. Much loved, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Funeral service, Friday 8th September, 3.15pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Immediate family flowers only, donations in memory of

Barbara for Parkinsons Pembrokeshire can be sent c/o Mr. Ian Thomas, Ty Cwtch, Port Lion, Llangwm, Haverfordwest, SA62 4JT. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

HETTY EVANS

EVANS Hetty Hetty passed away peacefully on August 5th 2023 at the age of 95. She was much loved and will be deeply

missed by her daughter Helen, son-in-law Keith, grandsons Phil and Glyn, Brother Kenvin and family, nephew Byron and family and all her other friends and relatives. The funeral will take place at Zions Hill Chapel, on August 23rd at 11.00 am. Family flowers only and any donations will go to Dementia.uk and Zions Hill Chapel. Via Byron Williams, Danleigh, Castle Rise, Spittal. All enquiries to Roy Folland

Pause for thought...

No one can doubt David Attenborough’s stature. Legendary, inspirational authoritative, many see him as all of these. He’s quite a guy. When it comes to the natural world his observations command respect, which is why it was good to see that he has noted that the report ‘No Time to Waste: Tackling the Plastic Pollution Crisis

Before It’s Too Late’ is one of the first to highlight the impacts of plastic pollution… on the world’s poorest people’.

Based on their findings the international relief and development agency Tearfund says someone in the developing countries dies every 30 seconds from diseases and illnesses caused by plastic pollution and uncollected rubbish dumped or burnt near their homes.

Amazingly two billion people don’t have their rubbish collected and this often leads to disease and death. When it builds up in rivers it can causes

flooding, which can result in diarrhoea and a host of infectious diseases and all too often the only other way to dispose of it is to be burn it. This releases greenhouse gases which exacerbate the climate crisis as well as releasing toxic fumes.

It’s not just tourists making their regular pilgrimages to the Mediterranean whose lives are being affected then. Far more importantly it’s those who are forced to live and work among the piles of waste that are polluting this wonderful world. And our throw away culture has found another way to litter our beautiful planet: single use vapes.

The Local Government Association has recently announced that some 1.3m disposable vapes are being thrown each week, enough to cover 22 football pitches every year.

Given this growing disaster it’s encouraging to know that almost 200 governments including our own are meeting during 2023 and 2024 to develop the first ever

international agreement on plastic pollution. In the light of this I would ask you to take a look at Tear Fund’s Rubbish Campaign and then think seriously about adding your name to the list of those urging the Secretary of State to grasp this historic opportunity with both hands.

But let’s be honest. We can’t simply hand the problem over to the politicians. That would be like passing the buck. Every one of us can and should do something to clean up the planet and combat poverty and death.

Above all though, let’s not forget that this is God’s world. We are simply His tenants, and He expects us to take care of it But we’re currently turning something that was very beautiful into a squalid garbage heap. I can’t imagine He’s very happy with that. What do you think?

ROB JAMES

& Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

KEITh MORRIS HULBERT

MR. KEITH MORRIS HULBERT PEMBROKE DOCK

The death occurred suddenly but peacefully on Monday 7th August 2023 at home of Mr. Keith Morris Hulbert aged 85 years of Clarence Street, Pembroke Dock. Beloved husband to Eileen. Dearly loved dad to Lydia and Damon. Much loved father-inlaw to Martin. Cherished Grandad to Sophie, Ben, Iori and Tully. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 23rd August 2023 1:00pm at Bethel Baptist Church, Pembroke Dock followed by Interment at Llanion Cemetery, Pembroke Dock. There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if so desired for The British Heart Foundation 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

CYNTHIA “MILDRED” MARY WATTS

Mrs. Cynthia “Mildred” Mary Watts of Simpson Cross The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Saturday 5th August, 2023. Funeral service to be held at Keyston

United Reformed Church at 2.00pm on Friday 18th

August. Family flowers only, donations if desired for the Coronary Care Unit, Withybush Hospital may be made payable to “Coronary Care/Ward 8” and sent to Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest, SA61 2PZ. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821

MELANIE CAUDWELL

Mrs Melanie Caudwell

Kilgetty The death occurred peacefully at home on Friday 11th

August 2023 of Mrs Melanie Caudwell affectionately known as Mel, aged 51 years of St Mary’s Place, Kilgetty. Loving Wife of Mark (Polo). Dearly loved Mum of Nikita Star, Tamzin Louise & Euan. Adored friend of Teddy the Chow. Loving Sister of Graham (Jinx), Sharon, the late Ellie and Sister in law to Rose. Much loved Aunty of Emma, Amanda, Louise, Susie, Julie, Charles, Robert, Gavin & Luke. The funeral service will take place on Friday 25th August 2023 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 2.30pm There will be family flowers only with donations if so desired for Bowel Cancer UK via Just Giving ‘Melanie Caudwell’ Funeral arrangements are being carried out by E.C. Thomas & Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 & 21,

Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680.

lEOnORa haMIlTOn lUKE

Leonora Hamilton Luke of Goodwick Leonora passed away peacefully on the 7th August, 2023 aged 98 years. Much loved, she will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Funeral service, Thursday 24th August, 11.00am at St. Mary’s Church, Manorowen followed by private interment. Family flowers only, donations in memory of Leonora for the British Heart Foundation can be sent directly to Greater London House, 180 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 7AW. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

BERyl DOREEn GRIFFITHS

Mrs Beryl Doreen Griffiths Hakin, Milford Haven

The death occurred peacefully at Williamston Nursing Home, Houghton on Sunday 5th August of Mrs. Beryl Doreen Griffiths, aged 91 years of Hayston Avenue, Hakin, Milford Haven. Dearly loved wife of the late Kenneth. The funeral service will take place on Thursday 17th August at 2.30pm at Hamilton Court Funeral Home, Milford Haven. No flowers by request. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

WALES

DEAR SIR

We are keen to invite your readers to consider applying for our Local Places for Nature initiative, which has recently re-opened.

It’s a great scheme where hundreds of community groups and organisations benefit from free gardening packages.

Since launching in 2020, more than 1,000 gardens of all shapes and sizes have been created or enhanced across Wales by groups including community services, youth groups, sports clubs and charities like Nuture Centre in Carmarthen and many more.

The Starter Package is ideal for anyone in Carmarthenshire looking to take on a small wildlife or small food growing project. And don’t worry if you don’t know where to start – our team is on hand to advise and support on how to put your plants, tools and materials to best use.

Local Places for Nature was first introduced to help fight climate and nature emergencies, but benefits have now reached far beyond creating vital habitats, with new gardens helping bring communities together and providing a much-needed boost to people’s health and wellbeing. We really hope that these spaces continue to be enjoyed for generations.

We’ll prioritize projects with strong community links and spaces in towns and cities or areas with limited or no access to nature.

We’re also really keen to hear from Wales’ underrepresented groups – our team is on hand to help with your application, if needed.

To apply for a Starter pack, head to www. keepwalestidy.cymru and check out

#BacktoNature across our social media channels for updates and all the latest news.

We really hope to hear from you!

Yours faithfully, Amy Hines Keep Wales Tidy Project Officer

picture

Pembroke Castle by Jenny Ambler

serVices

CARAVANS

CLEARANCES

CAR PARTS

ELECTRICAL

FENCING, DRIVEWAYS AND LANDSCAPING

HAIRDRESSING

CARPENTRY

CaMERaS & phOTOGRaphy

faBRICaTIOn

GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING

HANDYMAN

OVEn ClEanInG

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

Carew 2nds clinch Alec Colley Cup with convincing win

IN a thrilling clash at Pembroke Cricket Club’s Treleet Ground, the Carew 2nds cricket team showcased their dominance by securing an impressive eightwicket victory over Llangwm 2nds to claim the coveted Alec Colley Cup.

Captain Haydn Shapcott’s strategic call to bat first paid off as Llangwm’s batting lineup struggled to find their footing against a formidable Carew bowling attack. Max Brindley and Barry Evans emerged as the key figures,

combining forces to claim a remarkable seven wickets for just 35 runs. Evans’ exceptional spell of 4 for 22, including the crucial dismissal of top scorer Ewan Griffiths (14), and Brindley’s precise bowling effort of 3 for 13, led to Llangwm’s collapse at a mere 58 runs in 16.2 overs.

In response, Scott Richards exhibited an early spark with three fours in his score of 18, laying the foundation for the Scourfield duo to shine. Nick Scourfield’s composed 24 runs and Tom Scourfield’s

impressive knock of 46, featuring six boundaries, kept Carew’s scoreboard ticking. Ian Sefton’s powerful six and two fours in his undefeated 23-run contribution propelled Carew to a challenging total of 132 for 4. James Lewis managed to secure two wickets for Llangwm, finishing with figures of 2 for 33.

Following a delectable tea break, Llangwm’s batting woes persisted, with early wickets tumbling. Only Shaun Waller (19) and Johnny Palmer (18) managed to reach double figures

amidst the onslaught from Max Brindley (3 for 22) and Barry Evans (3 for 21). Llangwm could only muster a total of 103 all out in 18.5 overs, a target that seemed insufficient against Carew’s determined pursuit.

Tom Scourfield’s elegant stroke play, marked by four boundaries on his way to 24 runs, paved the way for Carew’s successful chase. Nick Scourfield and Ian Sefton displayed remarkable composure as they guided Carew to victory, sealing the match with their steady

partnership. The post-match ceremony saw Trefor Evans, President of the Pembroke County Cricket Club, present the accolades. Captain Haydn Shapcott hoisted the championship trophy high, while Barry Evans was named the standout performer, earning the well-deserved title of “Man of the Match.” The day concluded with jubilant celebrations for the Carew team, who had orchestrated an excellent performance to etch their name on the Alec Colley Cup.

Poppit Sands Race showcases impressive performances

THE POPPIT SANDS 5km race series, renowned for its picturesque beach route, saw its second race unfold on Tuesday, 8 August, defying a day of persistent rain as the sun triumphantly broke through the clouds to illuminate the event.

A total of 96 junior runners, undeterred by the damp weather, conquered the 2km course. A standout performance emerged from Iestyn Colnet (age 11-13), who clinched the victory with an impressive time of 7 minutes, 16.3 seconds. Meanwhile, William Evans dominated the boys’ 10 & under category, clocking

in at 7 minutes, 53.5 seconds.

Maisie Foster, representing TROTS, once again secured the title of the first girl across the finish line, achieving a remarkable time of 7 minutes, 30.2 seconds.

Aria Kimber emerged triumphant among girls aged 10 & under, completing the course in 8 minutes, 48.9 seconds.

The adults’ segment of the event proved equally challenging, as 95 participants confronted the demanding 5km route, encompassing two traverses across the sandy beach.

Triathlete David Cole of Carmarthen Harriers

surged ahead to seize the top spot, conquering the course in an impressive 17 minutes, 9.6 seconds. The previous race winner, Sion Daniels from Llanelli AC, remained a strong contender, securing a close second place with a time of 17 minutes, 26.1 seconds.

Dylan Lewis of Sarn Helen emerged victorious in the M40 category, crossing the line in 18 minutes, 24.6 seconds.

Stephen Williams of Pembs Harriers clinched the first M50 position, finishing in 19 minutes, 41.1 seconds. Seasoned athlete David Warren of Cardigan RC claimed the M60 title, completing the

course in 19 minutes, 27.3 seconds. Osian James was crowned the first youth finisher, completing the race in 19 minutes, 25.2 seconds.

The women’s race unfolded with equal intensity, as Polly Summers of Sarn Helen dashed across the finish line in 21 minutes, 45.3 seconds, closely pursued by Lindy Geyer (TROTS F55), who achieved a remarkable time of 22 minutes, 7.3 seconds. Cai Batchelor secured the title of the first F35 finisher, clocking in at 22 minutes, 41.4 seconds, while Tasha Sexton of Pembs Harriers triumphed in the F45 category with a time of 22

minutes, 45.3 seconds. Generous prizes from sponsors including In the Welsh Wind, The White Hart (St Dogmaels), Môr Ffin (St Dogmaels), and Ali’s Tandoori elevated the stakes for participants, highlighting their exceptional achievements.

Notably, the series commenced on a sunny Tuesday evening on July 25th, attracting over 100 children for the 2km children’s race and 120 adults for the main event.

The inaugural race saw Sion Daniels from Llanelli narrowly secure victory over local hero Ollie George in a nail-biting finish.

THIS WEEK IN CRICKET Carew secures second spot

IN an action-packed weekend of Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League division one matches, bowlers took center stage as Carew secured a commanding five-wicket victory over Cresselly, consolidating their second-place position behind league leaders Neyland.

The match at Carew saw a stellar performance from Joel Read, who claimed an impressive 5 wickets for just 16 runs, while Shaun Whitfield contributed with a notable 3 wickets for only 3 runs. Cresselly struggled to find their footing and were dismissed for a mere 59 runs. Carew’s Rhys Davies then stepped up, making 35 runs and guiding his team to a total of 63 for 5 wickets, despite a couple of dismissals to Thomas Arthur’s credit (2-19).

Neyland, the league leaders, continued their dominant run with an eight-wicket victory over Llangwm. Sean Hannon was the standout performer, showcasing exceptional form with figures of 6 wickets for 14 runs. Nic Koomen made his mark with both the ball, taking 2 wickets for 40 runs, and the bat, notching an unbeaten 90 runs. Llangwm struggled to put up a substantial total, eventually being bowled out for 130 runs.

St Ishmaels, however, faced a nail-biting defeat against Lawrenny, losing by just one wicket.

Despite St Ishmaels’ efforts with Kyle Marsh (52) and Thomas Cole (66) leading the charge, Lawrenny managed to chase down the target of 210 runs, thanks to Jamie McCormack’s

impressive 85-run knock. The division one results from August 12 were as follows:

• Carew (63-5) beat Cresselly (59) by 5 wickets

• Herbrandston (142) lost to Narberth (224-9) by 118 runs

• Llangwm (130) lost to Neyland (134-2) by 8 wickets

• St Ishmaels (204-6) lost to Lawrenny (2109) by 1 wicket

In division two, Pembroke Dock claimed a 46-run victory over Cresselly II, propelled by Jake Griffiths’ standout performance, scoring a remarkable 143 runs.

Hook secured a 19run win over Kilgetty, with Callum James impressively taking 5 wickets for just 3 runs.

Carew II dominated Johnston, securing a convincing 107-run victory, largely due to Jacob Knox’s all-around effort of 50 runs and 2 wickets for just 3 runs.

Llechryd managed a close four-wicket victory over Llanrhian, with Josh Ward contributing significantly with 77 runs and 2 wickets. Lastly, Whitland emerged victorious against Haverfordwest by a margin of 66 runs, powered by Jacob Owen’s unbeaten 59 runs.

With bowlers shining and intense battles on the field, the Thomas Carroll Pembrokeshire League division one and division two matches provided cricket enthusiasts with an enthralling display of skill and determination.

thomas carroll pembrokeshire league

Fixtures

Narberth v Neyland

St Ishmaels v Saundersfoot

division 2

Carew II v Hook

Haverfordwest v Cresselly II

Kilgetty v Pembroke Dock Llanrhian v Johnston

Llechryd v Whitland division 3

Laugharne v Burton II

Pembroke v Llechryd II Stackpole v Narberth II

division 4

Haverfordwest III v Crymych

Hundleton v Llanrhian II

Llangwm II v Fishguard

Neyland II v Lawrenny II

Saundersfoot II v Carew III

division 5

Herbrandston II v Pembroke II

Pembroke Dock II v Haverfordwest IV

Whitland II v Kilgetty II

division 6

Cresselly III v Hundleton II

Llechryd III v Whitland III

Neyland III v Laugharne II

Triumphs and challenges for Wales

THE WORLD CUP warm-up double-header between England and Wales has offered an insightful preview of the challenges and triumphs both teams face ahead of the global rugby showdown in France

. As the familiar pattern played out with Wales clinching a win in Cardiff and England responding at Twickenham, a closer examination reveals valuable takeaways that provide a deeper understanding of their preparations.

The initial encounter saw Wales secure a convincing 20-9 victory over England in Cardiff, setting the stage for a dramatic turn of events in the subsequent 19-17 defeat at Twickenham. This latter match was marked by an intense final quarter and a notable red card shown to England’s Owen Farrell. In the aftermath, Warren Gatland, Wales’ head coach, shared his insights, offering key perspectives that will likely shape their approach in the upcoming World Cup.

Gatland’s response to Wales’ loss at Twickenham was a mix of frustration and disappointment. The contrast between their clinical performance in Cardiff and the struggles at Twickenham underscored the varying dynamics that teams can encounter. This contrast also served as an opportunity for Gatland to assess player reactions under pressure, hinting at potential World Cup prospects.

Beyond the scores, the battle within the lineout was notable. While Wales displayed solid

Springboks are here!

line-out skills in Cardiff, they faced challenges at Twickenham, losing six line-outs. This emphasized the significance of a wellexecuted line-out strategy in high-stakes matches.

Gatland’s emphasis on addressing this weakness reflects his commitment to refining all aspects of his team’s game.

Discipline proved to be a pivotal aspect as well, with both sides receiving cards during the warmup encounters. Gatland’s focus on maintaining control and avoiding costly errors underscores the importance of composure during intense moments.

Injuries cast a shadow over the warmup matches, a reminder of the physical toll rugby takes on players. The absence of hooker Dewi Lake and lock Ryan Elias due to injuries highlighted

the unpredictability of the sport and the challenges of building a consistent squad.

The emergence of new talent, such as Scarlets centre Joe Roberts, provided a glimmer of hope amid the setbacks. Despite a shaky start, Roberts showcased adaptability and growth, offering promise for the future. Gatland’s tinkering with player combinations exemplified the ongoing search for the right lineup and partnerships.

Experienced players like Liam Williams demonstrated their value through their performances. Williams’ contribution, despite his limited recent playtime, showcased his reliability and skills that could prove vital in the World Cup.

As Gatland continues to fine-tune his squad,

the upcoming match against South Africa will offer further insights into player capabilities and cohesion. With the World Cup approaching rapidly, Gatland’s endeavor to build a cohesive and competitive team is entering its final stages.

Though the loss in Twickenham led to a drop in world rankings, history has shown that Wales is capable of overcoming challenges and rising again. Their ability to reach the number one ranking in 2019 demonstrates their potential for resurgence.

In the end, the warmup matches offered more than just scores; they provided a glimpse into the intricate challenges and strategies that will define the upcoming World Cup for both England and Wales.

The Springboks are gearing up for their penultimate warm-up match against Wales in Cardiff this weekend.

Captain Siya Kolisi is set to make his return from injury, adding to the excitement of the clash.

After rotating their squad during the Rugby Championship and their second match against Argentina, head coach Jacques Nienaber is now focused on fielding a more settled team against Warren Gatland’s charges.

Nienaber highlighted the importance of building strong combinations and allowing players to regain form before the World Cup kicks off.

The predicted Springboks lineup includes a mix of experienced players and promising talents. Damian Willemse is expected to start at full-back or flyhalf, with Cheslin Kolbe returning as the firstchoice right wing. Jesse Kriel is set to fill the void at number 13 due to Lukhanyo Am’s absence, while Damian de Allende and Kriel will likely maintain their partnership in the midfield.

Makazole Mapimpi is poised to play on the left

wing, aiming to regain his best form. The halfback pairing is predicted to be Manie Libbok at fly-half and Jaden Hendrikse at scrum-half, with Hendrikse potentially shifting to fly-half during the match.

In the forward pack, Jasper Wiese is expected to start at number 8, competing against Duane Vermeulen. Pieter-Steph du Toit, the 2019 World Player of the Year, is anticipated to bring his A-game as the team’s flanker. Captain Siya Kolisi is declared fit and likely to start at number 6, bringing his leadership and skill to the field.

The locking partnership will see RG Snyman returning to the starting lineup alongside Eben Etzebeth, forming a formidable secondrow pair. Frans Malherbe is predicted to anchor the scrum at tighthead, while Bongi Mbonambi is poised to start as hooker.

The replacements bench features notable names like Malcolm Marx, Steven Kitshoff, and Faf de Klerk. The lineup showcases a balance of experience and emerging talent, setting the stage for a compelling battle against Wales.

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