downbeat.
He said plans are in place, but it will be “a really difficult time”.
“Our job now is to try and, as quickly as possible, fix the areas where we’ve got these critical issues to start reopening wards.
“The first ward should reopen at the end of September, with patients hopefully returning at the beginning of October.
“It does feel like things will start to gradually get better, but we’ll be fixing this issue for probably most of next year.”
A MAN from Pembrokeshire has been handed a fine following a harassment charge.
Daniel Preston, aged 36, residing at Newell Hill in Tenby, pleaded guilty to a count of harassment without the act of violence when he appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on September 8.
The court heard that on September 6, Mr. Preston visited the residence of his victim in Penally, Tenby on multiple occasions and
Paul Davies has called for urgent action to address the crisis at Withybush Hospital following further revelations about the state of the hospital building.
The Herald revealed the crisis’s extent in a series of articles over the summer before the Board acted to address the presence of crumbling concrete in the original buildings built during the 1970s.
Speaking to the BBC this week, Health Board CEO Steve Moore said the £13m already earmarked by the Welsh Government would not touch the sides of the wider problems with the building’s structure.
Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete, or Raac, was used mostly in flat roofing between the 1950s and 1990s as a cheaper alternative to concrete but has a limited lifespan.
The core part of
Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.emailWithybush is built from concrete panels and planks. The planks, which support its roofs and floors, are made from Raac.
As The Herald reported last week, ceilings in key hospital areas are being held up by metal poles, and more are being deployed in and around treatment areas. Parts of the hospital are closed from public access. Services and ducting tend to follow the path of the crumbling concrete planks.
The only safe and permanent solution is replacing all of the Raac planks. That effectively means rebuilding the hospital from the inside out while retaining patient services. That would significantly disrupt the hospital’s capacity and throw its future viability into doubt.
The hard truth that neither the Board nor the
Welsh Government has ever addressed is that the core of Withybush Hospital is well past the end of its planned life. Patching, making do and mending, the pattern at hospitals across Wales, will no longer do. Health infrastructure needs a massive capital investment.
Mr Moore also confirmed parts of the hospital would not reopen until 2024 and that inspections of the hospital building would have to be the subject of constant - and pricey - inspections well into the future.
Ward closures mean that half of all Withybush’s inpatient beds are closed, with many moved to South Pembrokeshire Hospital, Glangwili, or discharged to community care. Those needing surgery face being sent to Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth.
With winter’s inevitable pressures fast approaching, Mr Moore was predictably
Paul Davies said: “That Withybush has had to close half of its wards and lose half of its beds due to RAAC is regrettable enough. Now, parts will have to remain closed through 2024. The situation is not sustainable for the surrounding communities that rely on the hospital.
“This is particularly concerning given the anticipated winter pressures. The Labour Government need to step in to help speed up remedial work so that services continue at Withybush Hospital and we avoid a winter catastrophe.”
Also commenting, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister, Russell George MS, added: “With the Labour Government in control of all aspects of health here in Wales, it is vital that they take responsibility and support Withybush Hospital through this difficult time.”
persistently sent her text messages, which constituted harassment.
The magistrate imposed a fine of £80 on Preston and further instructed him to cover court costs amounting to £85. Additionally, he has been placed under a restraining order for a duration of two years, which prohibits him from initiating any contact with the victim, approaching her property, or posting any information about her online.
FIGURES this week show that only 50.4% of red ambulance calls were reached within the 8 minute target, ranging from 41% of calls in Powys to 55.7% in Swansea Bay. In addition, the number of patients waiting to start a course of treatment rose by 4,400 to 593,000 in July. The number of patients waiting more than 36 weeks to start a course of treatment increased to 231,000 in July.
Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS stated:“It is deeply concerning to see that only half of all lifethreatening emergency ambulance calls were reached within the 8 minute target in August, the poorest performance since September last year.
“If we are to reduce pressures on our
ambulance services and A&Es, we must invest more in community healthcare and social care. If people could get a GP appointment in reasonable time or be safely discharged from hospital, there would be far less pressure on emergency services.
“Across the board the figures are going in the wrong direction. More people waiting to start treatment, more people waiting longer to start treatment, more people waiting longer to start cancer treatment.
“This situation cannot continue. Labour Ministers must end their hands-off approach to our NHS and support our outstanding NHS staff and use their insight and expertise to put our NHS on a more stable footing.”
OVER 350,000 people have signed an online petition calling on the Welsh Government to rescind the introduction of a default 20mph limit on around 35% of Welsh roads.
The petition is by far the largest the Senedd has received in its history. However, Labour ministers have dug in, said they will not backtrack, and suggested they will pursue cuts to other speed limits.
Reactions to the 20mph limit on the Herald’s social media channels have been overwhelmingly hostile.
Among the printable ones are:
“So much for democracy. And this IS NOT what Labour had in their election manifesto at all. That’s my last vote ever for them.”
“It’s amazing that there are still people so educationally challenged and indoctrinated that they’ll still vote Labour even when they can see Drakeford destroying Welsh democracy.”
“What the people want does not matter in Wales.. as long as the politicians get what they want is all that matters.”
“I drove through
Johnson earlier.... it took 3 days. Fair do’s, the whole of Wales is a funeral cortege.... Absolute muppetry”.
“It was only supposed to be around schools and colleges, not in every built-up area!! It’s supposed to keep kids safe when leaving to go to school and after!! What a complete, utter joke.”
Although few have backed the plans, more have pointed out past Conservative support for the 20mph limit and accused those who voted for it of hypocrisy.
Despite the number of signatures on the
petition, it might not reach the Senedd floor for further discussion.
Petitions must gain over 250 signatures before the Senedd’s Petitions Committee considers them. The Senedd usually debates petitions with over 10,000 signatures. However, that decision is at the Petitions Committee’s discretion.
Even if the petition is debated, the Welsh Government says it will not reconsider the policy. And it has enough votes behind it to ensure that’s the case.
During First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday (September 19), the Conservative MS Tom Giffard asked whether Mark Drakeford
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Friday September 22nd 2023 would commit to abandoning the 20mph scheme following the number of signatories supporting calls for its scrapping.
Mr Drakeford tersely replied: “No.”
There is no room for manoeuvre after such a blunt, uncompromising answer and no mood for compromise.
The violence of some online language, multiple acts of criminal damage, and spillover into bitter exchanges in the Welsh Parliament resulted in a warning to Senedd Members from the Presiding Officer on Wednesday, September 20.
Elin Jones MS told members: “Overnight, I’ve become aware of several Members— myself included— receiving abusive and threatening messages on social media, e-mail and telephone.”
Ms Jones referred to the First Minister’s language the preceding day. Responding to a tame question from his backbenchers, Mark Drakefod launched a vicious verbal attack on Andrew RT Davies.
The language used in a now-deleted online
comment by CounselGeneral Mick Antoniw attracted criticism and led to his apology.
Even the petition makes assertions about the policy based on contentious findings and claims that A&E doctors’ expert opinions on road accident causes are not evidence. The last is an intriguing claim that would undermine law enforcement and civil claims for injuries arising from traffic collisions if true- it is not.
What is certain, however, is the Welsh Government has badly misjudged the extent of its support from the wider public on the main issue. That misjudgment arguably results from it coming to believe its own publicity material and listening only to the echo chamber of approval it uses to draw up policies.
The controversy also emphasises the softness of the Welsh Government’s support among voters.
So few people vote in elections to the Welsh Senedd that the number of signatures on the petition already exceeds
the total number of votes cast in three regions during the 2021 Senedd election.
The number of signatures also dwarfs the total votes cast for both Plaid Cymru AND the Liberal Democrats combined across the WHOLE of Wales in the same poll.
At the time of writing, more than twice as many people have signed the petition than voted for Plaid Cymru in the 2019 UK General Election.
Suppose the Labour won’t change the policy
or even debate it again on the floor of the Senedd. In that case, the Conservatives face the challenge of weaponising it in a future General Election.
As shown with other contentious legislation, short-term reaction
tends to fade into grudging acceptance. Grumbles will not necessarily add up to more Conservative or fewer Labour votes in a Westminster poll.
Looking at the areas where support for the petition is strongest,
key north-east Wales marginals most strongly oppose the measure. Making the issue stick in them could be a fruitful approach in those former “red wall” seats and dent hopes of gaining the Vale of Glamorgan and Monmouthshire.
GARY BLOUNT, a 44-year-old man from Whitland previously employed as a doorman and sound engineer in Tenby, has been jailed for five years today (Sept 18) at Swansea Crown Court.
Blount was unanimously found guilty by a jury on two charges of child sexual assault last month.
The incidents, involving a child aged five or six, occurred between 2014 and October 2016. Blount had denied both charges, which were
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailrelated to the same victim.
The trial, held at Swansea Crown Court, lasted three days.
The 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 had delayed sentencing until Monday, September 18, to allow for the preparation of a pre-sentence report.
THE BUSH TAVERN, an iconic pub in Pembroke Dock, announced its permanent closure yesterday. The pub, dating back to the 1850s, has fallen victim to skyrocketing energy prices that have shaken the UK’s hospitality sector.
Publican Mike McLarnon lamented, “Our annual electricity bill quadrupled from roughly £10,000 to an unsustainable £40,000. Coupled with a sixfold surge in gas prices, we’re
forced to close our doors.”
The pub, which is tied to a major company, also cited climbing beer costs as another nail in the coffin. “Continuing to trade under these conditions jeopardizes the future of my family,” McLarnon added.
Apologising to bands and performers slated for upcoming events, McLarnon emphasised that the closure is a move to protect his family, his primary concern.
The Bush Tavern was once a bustling hub where even local Army Reserve
Pensioners were paid. It had previously shuttered in the early ‘90s, only to be resurrected in 1995 after a major overhaul.
As Britain’s largest pub group experiments with “dynamic pricing,” charging an extra 20p a pint during peak times, this latest closure casts a shadow over an industry already grappling with multiple challenges.
Admiral, the owning company, is now searching for a new tenant, leaving locals hopeful that The Bush Tavern may yet serve the community again.
IN RECENT proceedings at Swansea Crown Court, Richard Davies, 38, of The Ridgeway, Lamphey, was found not guilty of the sexual assault charges levelled against him.
The case dates back to an incident on Saturday, August 28, 2021. The complainant alleged that after a night of revelry, she had been assaulted by Davies in the early hours. She claimed to have woken up on her sofa with Davies engaging in inappropriate conduct. This event was reportedly disclosed to her husband immediately, and later to two friends via Facebook messenger. She then approached Davies’ wife with her claims on August
31 and subsequently reported the incident to the police on September 3, 2021.
Contrary to the complainant’s allegations, Davies maintained that the encounter was consensual. Testifying during his trial, he asserted that the complainant had been conscious throughout the ordeal and had initiated the engagement. Furthermore, he conveyed that he held no sexual attraction towards the complainant.
When probed by prosecutor Ashanti-Jade Walton on the apparent contradiction of his actions despite lacking attraction, Davies admitted, “Yes, that’s true.” He speculated that alcohol might have clouded his better
judgment that night. In earlier discussions with his wife, he had initially denied any sexual interaction with the complainant, explaining his reluctance as not feeling “ready to have that conversation.”
Additional testimony from his wife revealed that she only became aware of any sexual contact between her husband and the complainant in the early part of the following year.
After extensive deliberation lasting over two hours, the jury delivered a not guilty verdict. Judge Paul Thomas expressed his gratitude to the jury and legal representatives, notifying Davies that he was free to depart.
ZAMURD HUSSAIN, a Pembroke Dock drug dealer who profited £15,000 from the sale of cannabis, has been ordered to repay a mere £1.
In January, Hussain, 40, was convicted at Swansea Crown Court for possessing cannabis with intent to supply and for involvement in the distribution of cannabis. Officers had intercepted a vehicle travelling through Monkton with Hussain as a passenger. On interaction, officers detected a strong scent of cannabis. Hussain swiftly discarded a black bag from the vehicle, later found to be filled with a significant quantity of cannabis.
Furthermore, Hussain faced conviction for possessing £1,500 in what was deemed as criminal earnings.
Originally from Ramsden Court in Monkton, he received a 21-month suspended sentence, which was deferred for 18 months, on February 13.
The Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA)
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailinstigated proceedings to recover the funds Hussain accumulated from his illicit drug sales. Although there was consensus on Hussain’s £15,000 profit, there was
contention regarding the ownership of the £1,500 seized — whether it belonged to him or his sister. Prosecutor Alycia Carpanini clarified to the court that the said amount was indeed Hussain’s sister’s property. Thus, the total sum eligible
for confiscation from Hussain was set at a symbolic £1.
Additionally, Hussain faced allegations of missing mandatory appointments linked to his suspended sentence, specifically on March 28 and April 4. He refuted these claims. Defence
counsel Hannah George presented Hussain’s stance: he claimed not to have received prior notice for the initial appointment due to a recent change of address and had an understanding with his probation officer to substitute
the subsequent appointment with extra work hours. This claim was disputed by his probation officer during her testimony.
Complicating matters, Hussain later produced a retrospective sick note for the absences. Weighing the conflicting narratives, Judge Paul Thomas remarked it was a matter of credibility.
Judge Thomas expressed his scepticism, stating, “I don’t find Mr Hussain credible in the slightest. He’s consistently tried to circumvent the system he’s been subjected to. Despite the leeway granted, he’s manipulated it to his advantage. Evidently, he perceives himself as someone who can charm his way out of any situation. I remain unconvinced by his words.”
Consequently, Judge Thomas reinstated and executed Hussain’s previously suspended sentence, incarcerating him for 15 months.
THIS Organ Donation Week, (18th to 24th September), Vicky Jones, a paramedic and sister of a woman whose selfless organ donation saved three lives, is appealing with the NHS to urge people to confirm their support for organ donation on the NHS Organ Donor Register.
Currently, 7,187 people are waiting for a life-saving transplant, the highest number in almost a decade. Clinicians have also warned that opportunities for lifesaving transplants are still been missed, with 1,130 families declining to donate their loved ones organs last year.
NHS Blood and Transplant data shows that organ donation is still most likely to go ahead when a potential donor has proactively confirmed their decision
to donate on the NHS Organ Donor Register, with 9 out of 10 families supporting donation when their loved one has confirmed their decision on the register.
Alex Ford, a mum of one and one of five siblings, was fit and active and an accomplished horse rider. Sadly the 49 year old, from Aberystwyth, was riding alone when she fell from one of her horses and was seriously injured in May 2022. She donated her organs saving lives.
Her sister Vicky, aged 58, from Haverfordwest, says: “Alex was a free spirit and loved being a mum to Gemma. She was very fit and active and looked after herself, the weekend before the accident she’d completed a triathlon involving paddleboarding, mountain cycling and a run.
“Alex was only weeks away from her 50th birthday and had planned a holiday with friends. She was very caring and had done various roles working in healthcare, she wanted to help people. She was working towards becoming a counsellor.
“She liked yoga, walking, music and she loved horses, she had three horses of her own.
Alex was a consummate horse woman and she
used to compete. Sadly she was riding when she had an accident and suffered a head injury.”
Alex was airlifted from Wales to Liverpool then the Walton Centre and her family were told she was very badly hurt.
Vicky, a paramedic, says: “Because of my job I understood what was happening with Alex and realised she was very unlikely to survive her injuries, I was able to keep calm and
collected, I explained things and supported the rest of the family.
“One of my brothers asked if we were looking at organ donation and we were starting to think and talk about it. Then the specialist nurse said she had signed up to the register and wanted to be an organ donor.
“We made the decision as a family to support Alex’s decision, if it’s what she wanted - it was the way to go. Knowing Alex had joined the register many years ago confirmed what we were thinking and that it was the right thing to do.
“I don’t think we ever talked as a family about organ donation but we were aware of the benefits and felt it was the right thing to do.
Family members give blood and it was just there in the background that you help people if you can. We knew how fit and healthy Alex was
and felt she could really help others, but finding out she was on the register really underlined Alex’s wishes. It made it so much easier to know what to do for definite, she had already made that decision and we supported it.
“Three people are walking around today who wouldn’t have been because of Alex. It is very fitting, she was so caring and it comforts us to know she has made such a difference to others.”
Alex donated her heart, liver and a kidney helping three people. She has a daughter, Gemma, aged 22, and two sisters, two brothers and her mum.
For more information about organ donation, or to register your organ donation decision, please visit: www. organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 23 23.
A MOTHER from Pembrokeshire, facing 15 counts of child cruelty at Swansea Crown Court, has been handed a four-year prison sentence for her decade-long abuse of her own children.
The mother, whose identity remains concealed to safeguard the children’s privacy, was revealed to have physically and emotionally abused her offspring, who range in age from 5 to 14.
Prosecutor Dean Pulling remarked on Monday (Sept 18), “The prolonged cruelty endured by these children is incomprehensible –from physical assaults to emotional torment.”
On a chilling day in June of the previous year, the father of the younger children observed an alarming red mark around one child’s eye. The child reluctantly revealed that her mother had shoved her in the shower, causing the injury. Additional
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailbruises were discovered on another child.
Concerns intensified when a school teaching assistant spotted the injury. Although the child was initially reticent, they later admitted to the school headteacher that their mother was the perpetrator, an account corroborated by their sibling.
In a distressing turn of events, the mother’s verbal and physical abuse was captured on recordings. In one recording, she is overheard menacingly declaring, “I don’t care what happens here. If I strike you, never tell your teacher.”
Upon hearing these recordings, the children’s father was left “physically sickened” and promptly turned them over to the school and subsequently to the police.
The family’s home
was reported to be in a dire state. Prosecutor Pulling detailed that the dwelling was filthy, with damaged doors, cluttered children’s rooms, and even soiled puppy pads strewn around, emanating an overpowering odour of urine.
When confronted, the mother conceded her actions but downplayed the severity, accusing the children of deceit and the father of manipulating them into making accusations. She stated, “I didn’t hit them hard. It was merely to shock them.”
Mr. Pulling highlighted the long-standing engagement of both social services and the police with the mother, dating back to 2010. The children, conditioned by their mother’s threats, remained silent, fearing separation if they confided in anyone.
Gravely, a paediatrician’s evaluation concluded that the children’s injuries were
consistent with abuse. Additionally, the court was appalled to learn of the children’s developmental delays, dental issues, and infestations.
Defence counsel Stuart John lamented the lack of decisive intervention, stating, “It’s tragic that social services did not intervene sooner. These
children deserved better.”
Acknowledging her wrongdoings, the defendant expressed remorse, citing efforts to combat her alcohol addiction.
Judge Catherine Richards conveyed her horror, asserting that the audio recordings were “truly harrowing for any
adult to hear, let alone a child.”
The mother was sentenced to a total of four years imprisonment for the initial 12 charges, with additional concurrent sentences for the remaining offences relating to specific incidents.
PEMBROKESHIRE
has been identified as the third major empty home hotspot in the UK.
The recent study on the UK’s housing market, conducted by Alan Boswell Landlord Building Insurance, disclosed a startling fact – the country has 4,331 vacant properties. This figure contradicts the popular belief of a fully occupied UK property market, especially given the weighty 5.1% rise in rent over the last year.
Gwynedd, in northwest Wales, tops the list with a staggering 5,286 vacant properties per 100,000 residents, an actual number amounting to 6,204. Surprisingly, a significant 77% of these are second homes or holiday residences. This has consequently resulted in escalating house prices, pushing the average up to £136,095.
Following closely is Argyll and Bute, which, with its historical
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailsplendour and breathtaking vistas, now has 4,887 empty homes per 100,000 people. This makes up over 10% of the area’s households. Furthermore, to address the increasing number of vacant properties, the Scottish Government has augmented The Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS) to 6% of the property purchase price for individuals who already possess one or more residential properties, anywhere in the world.
However, it’s Pembrokeshire’s standing at third place that’s turning heads. Despite its reputation as a sanctuary for nature and history aficionados, the county is grappling with a surge of holidayhome ownership. A vast 74% of its vacant properties are owned by individuals possessing
second homes. The data indicates 4,331 empty homes for every 100,000 individuals in the county, summing up to 5,346 overall.
Concluding the top five are the Isle of Anglesey and Ceredigion, both in Wales, with 3,752 and 3,595 vacant properties per 100,000 residents, respectively.
This overwhelming number of vacant homes across these areas not only affects the local housing market but also impacts the native residents, many of whom find it increasingly challenging to own a home in their own community.
Methodology: The analysis used government data, StatsWales website information, and the Scottish Government’s figures. Data utilised spanned from 2021 to 2023, considering population and house price figures.
OFFSHORE
RENEWABLE ENERGY
(ORE) Catapult, in association with Floventis Energy, is set to boost the floating offshore wind sector in Wales. The partnership aims to prepare Welsh businesses for this rapidly growing industry.
This initiative, termed the Fit 4 Offshore Renewables (F4OR) programme, is tailored exclusively to propel the floating wind market in Wales. It marks the debut of such an initiative in the region, reflecting the nation’s progressive stance on renewable energy.
The joint venture sees a promising £180,000 committed by Floventis Energy towards the 1218 month floating wind specific development scheme. Welsh businesses are set to benefit extensively with unique access to the team developing Llŷr 1
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailand 2 in the Celtic Sea. This, in combination with the forthcoming Celtic Sea Round 5 projects, promises lucrative prospects for local ventures.
Vaughan Gething, Wales’ Economy Minister, expressed his enthusiasm: “The offshore wind sector has an incredible potential for our economy and its people. By bolstering the awareness of Welsh firms, we aim to pave the way for them to harness the opportunities of the green future.”
The programme, commencing in 2024, will kick-start with an initial group of three companies. Since its inception in 2019, the F4OR initiative has flourished across the UK, boasting five successful regional programmes and aiding over 100 companies. Many of
these beneficiaries have seen a significant surge in their turnovers.
Andrew Macdonald from ORE Catapult commented on the potential of the sector: “Our goal is to ensure a top-tier supply chain developed in the UK, ready to cater to the world. With the proven success of F4OR in other parts, we’re
AS the Bank of England gears up to announce its latest interest rates tomorrow, intelligent finance app, Plum, accuses banks of profiteering from elevated interest rates without offering fair returns to savers.
The prevailing Bank of England’s base rate is a significant 5.25%. However, a substantial number of UK banks have dragged their feet in recalibrating their savings account rates. Consequently, many savers feel they are not receiving their fair share.
A fresh study spearheaded by Plum reveals that the typical UK saver tucks away £260 monthly, accumulating to an impressive £24,500 in their savings pot. Strikingly, most are only receiving an average of 3.3% interest on these savings – a notable 1.95% below the central bank’s base rate. In numerical terms, this translates to an average annual loss of £478 in potential interest per saver, cumulating to an alarming £17 billion deficit for UK savers as a whole.
Despite the clear financial advantage of switching to a higher-interest account, an overwhelming
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email77% of savers have opted to stay put. Among the reasons given, 28% cited marginal differences in rates between banks, while 30% professed loyalty to their current banking institutions. This sentiment exists even though a whopping 71% believe banks’ profit margins to be excessively high.
When probed about their savings goals, almost half (49%) are saving for emergencies, closely followed by 44% saving for holidays. For individuals below 45, saving towards a home or its enhancement was a primary motive (47%). In contrast, for those aged 55-64, retirement topped the list (51%).
Earlier this year, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) unveiled a robust 14-point strategy aiming to ensure that banks and building societies provide savers with appropriate interest rates. Institutions failing to provide valid reasoning behind their pricing models by 2023’s close could face stringent measures from the FCA.
Victor Trokoudes, Plum’sFounder and CEO, voiced his concerns: “In the current cost-of-living crisis, it’s disheartening to see many banks dragging their feet in revising interest rates on savings accounts, thereby undermining the value of savers’ diligent efforts. The FCA’s promised action, although commendable, isn’t an all-encompassing solution. The central issue remains: major banks’ operations seem misaligned with their customers’ best interests.”
He further added, “Since December 2021, the Bank of England has hiked its rates 14 times, a trend predicted to continue in the forthcoming announcement. It’s crucial for the public to be proactive and not let banks undervalue their deposits. Plum is committed to introducing a new offering, ensuring savings keep pace with the base rate dynamics.”
Plum, boasting a track record of assisting people in saving over £2bn, is on the cusp of launching a novel product. This new initiative promises returns more in line with the Bank of England’s base rate, ensuring savers earn what they rightfully deserve.
eager to tap into the vast opportunities that Wales, particularly in floating wind energy, presents.”
The Celtic Sea in Wales is poised to be a frontrunner in the UK’s net-zero ambition, targeting a deployment of 4GW of floating wind by 2035. Early estimates suggest the potential creation of over 3,000 jobs, injecting a
staggering £682 million into the supply chain of Wales and Cornwall by 2030.
Cian Conroy of Floventis Energy, noting the importance of the programme, stated: “Initiatives like F4OR, in tandem with projects such as Llŷr, are vital for building a robust industry. Our end goal is to fortify the UK’s offshore renewable
energy supply chain, both domestically and on the global stage.”
Applications for the programme are open for firms employing over ten individuals and boasting turnovers exceeding £1 million, provided they cater to the offshore wind sector. Interested companies can apply at F4OR – ORE (catapult. org.uk) by 10 November.
APEMBROKESHIREBASED restaurant, Panache Indian, located on Queen Street, Pembroke Dock, has been slapped with a hefty fine after being found guilty of employing illegal workers over the past year.
The authorities acted on intelligence provided to the UK government, leading to raids at the Panache establishment earlier this year. Investigations uncovered that several staff members employed there had no legal right to either reside or work in the UK. The exact number of illegal workers discovered on the premises has not been disclosed.
As a consequence of these findings, the restaurant, owned and managed by Fahinoor Rahman, has been penalised with a fine amounting to £30,000.
Furthermore, Panache Restaurant now features
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailin the Government’s quarterly report, which lists companies penalised for the use of illegal workers. This data is publicly released by the Home Office four times annually, with the most recent data spanning from January 1 to March 31, 2023.
The UK government underscores the severe repercussions awaiting companies or individuals found employing those without the right to work or live in the UK. According to Gov.uk, guilty parties could face up to five years imprisonment, alongside an unlimited fine, particularly if they knowingly or had ‘reasonable cause to believe’ they were employing individuals without the right to work in the UK.
This category
comprises:
• Individuals lacking the leave (permission) to enter or stay in the UK.
• Those whose permission to stay has expired.
• Individuals restricted from certain job roles.
• Persons providing
incorrect or fraudulent information.
• In a related incident, the Nehar Indian Restaurant in Lampeter,
owned by Ruhul Amin Choudhury, has also been penalised with a £20,000 fine for employing illegal workers.
DRAGON LNG GROUP held their second charity golf day at Milford Haven Golf Club, raising over £4,000 for their selected charity of the year.
Over 40 teams participated in the successful day, at the end of July, with one team travelling from as far as Hampshire. All enjoyed a round of golf, food and the sunshine to raise money for Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal (WHCDUA), followed by a presentation evening.
Bernie and Anne from WHCDUA came along to meet the teams as they teed off and to sell raffle tickets.
The registered charity, set up in 2009, is run entirely by volunteers, raising funds to invest in facilities and equipment needed by the team of
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email
clinicians and nurses in the Cancer Day Unit at Haverfordwest. All equipment supplied is requested by the team working at the hospital to ensure the needs of the unit are met. In conjunction with the work they are carrying out for the unit, the charity is also managing an additional website www.kipp.tips. Aimed at Pembrokeshire Cancer patients, the website provides a wealth of information including money matters, transport, access to information and much more.
Bernie George, Trustee for Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal said ‘A big ‘thank you’ from me for including Anne and myself in
the amazing event and giving us the chance to tell people what we are all about. You should all be very proud of the organisation on the day and it was great to meet many of your colleagues. The evening presentation was just buzzing and evidence that everyone had had a great day out.’
The format of the day was Texas scramble and the winning team was Jason Rickard and his bunch of Merry Men - Leighton Edwards, Greg Murdoch and Jason Thomas, followed closely by teams from South Hook LNG and Valero Pembrokeshire Oil Terminal.
Richard Hull, member of the Dragon LNG Golf
committee said ‘ It was great to be involved and to play in in the second Dragon LNG Charity Golf Day, both of which I have helped organise at Milford Haven Golf Club. I was delighted to see staff, business partners, suppliers and club members supporting our chosen charity of the year.’ Thanks go to
everyone at Milford Haven Golf Club for their help including the food, use of the club house and the golf course, and to Upton Farm Frozen foods for the delicious, discounted burgers cooked by members of the Dragon Team. Sponsorship and raffle prizes came from Dragon LNG, Dragon Energy, Ancala, Shell, Petronas, Towergate Insurance, A&A scaffolding, VPOT, Altrad, PUMA Energy, Austwel, Pembs Building Supplies, BDS, Hornbill, Fluor, Sinclair Group (Neyland), Tan Y Castell Welshcakes, MHGC and Club Captain and Mr Chips (Pembroke Dock) Further information about Withybush Hospital Cancer Day Unit Appeal can be found on their website www. whcduappeal.co.uk or by telephoning 01646 698736.
Minister Lesley Griffiths has welcomed the UK Government’s announcement that it is to ban the American Bully XL by the end of the year.
The Minister said: “I welcome today’s news that steps are at last being taken to deal with the American Bully XL dog, following a number of attacks and fatalities. I have written to the UK Government over many years asking them to address the number of incidents involving American XL Bully Breeds, and to look at how the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 can be improved. Just this week I raised the matter again with
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailthe DEFRA Secretary of State and I look forward to seeing the detail of the measures.
“My officials will work closely with UK Government to ensure the ban does not negatively affect public safety, dog welfare or pressure on the wider animal welfare
sector
“Promotion of responsible dog ownership is a priority for the Welsh Government and our Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs outlines the obligations on owners to keep their dogs under control. Our Programme for Government includes several measures that will improve standards of dog breeding and keeping in Wales.
“We will continue to keep under constant review what we can do here in Wales to prevent the dangers posed by irresponsible dog ownership, while promoting the benefits that dogs can bring to society.”
A WELSH Coffee Morning has been set up in the Coracle Hall in Llechryd to give an opportunity for Welsh learners to practise and socialise in Welsh. The group meets every second and fourth Wednesday at 11am, and new members are welcomed.
Rhodri Francis, Development Officer for Cered (Menter Iaith Ceredigion), the organisers, said: “It’s a brilliant opportunity for Welsh learners to come together to socialise with other learners in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Everyone is welcome – Welsh leaners, fluent Welsh speakers and also non-Welsh speakers or anyone else who may be interested in learning Welsh
but not having done so yet. The Welsh language belongs to everyone.”
Councillor Amanda Edwards, who represents the Llechryd area, said: “It’s been fantastic seeing Welsh learners come together speaking and gaining confidence in speaking Welsh. A treasure hunt was organised in Llechryd by the coffee morning in July and over a 100 people took part. It was great seeing the community coming together after what has been a very tough few years for everyone following the pandemic.”
Councillor Catrin M S Davies, Ceredigion Cabinet Member with responsibility for Culture added: “Following the difficult Covid period there’s nothing better than
seeing groups being formed and meeting in our villages and communities and this example in Llechryd, which offers opportunities to speak Welsh in a leisurely environment, really is uplifting. Thank you to everyone who is involved
in organising and attending it. For anyone who is within reach of Llechryd, I would encourage you to drop in and see how easy it is to practice your Welsh no matter what language skills you have. The aim is to start and keep speaking Welsh.”
IT’S lovely when life slows down to a pace you can keep up with.
So it was in our village this week. On Monday, I took the short walk to the shops and managed to pass many of the same cars coming back as I had going down.
Let’s be fair. It wasn’t all down to the exciting new 20mph speed limit that’s caused Mr Furious of Pantygirdl to get even angrier. Lots of it was to do that - like many places in Pembrokeshire - the main road becomes a car park at peak travel times. I, for one, look forward to the day when cars are banned, and we have to progress everywhere on space hoppers.
I can understand it might make freight transport somewhat more difficult. Strapping livestock to large rubber balloons and bouncing them to the Mart is probably unrealistic. Of course, by then, we’ll all be following an approved diet made up of nutritious goop full of all you need to exist but not to live.
I have no objection to it taking more time to get into the office. The slower, the better, as far as I’m concerned. What sort of idiot wants to get to work at Warp Factor Five, after all? However, I want to be home as soon as possible when escaping a day’s hard toil. I crave a decent cup of tea in a proper mug and the comfort of my armchair.
I also don’t want to come up the drive to find my beloved standing at the front door, tapping a foot and pointing at her watch as my curfew
approaches. She even does it when I work from home and spend more than the divinely ordained period checking emails from the office.
Thankfully, when you get to my age, infirmity and waist size, you don’t have to worry about being distracted by wine, women, and song. Falling asleep with a mug of cocoa steaming next to me on the table as Shirley Bassey goes three rounds, two pinfalls, knockout or submission with a song is enough these days.
When I was a lot younger, I liked cars. I liked large, fast saloon cars that felt like you were being whisked along at 100mph seated in the world’s fastest three-piece suite. When I became a family man, I put away such foolish things. I bought sensible and spacious cars that were cheap to run. Ones that could accommodate yelling sprogs and the missus in relative comfort.
The children have long flown the nest, but we have kept having sensible cars. But we both yearn for something more. As I disclosed before, the missus is attracted to large Chelsea Tractors the better to crush her victims. My more modest desire is for a DB5. Not that I could ever fit in one without undergoing extensive bariatric surgery.
As we consider getting a new car, and in light of the 20mph speed limit, my darling and I agree on what one must have. A teasmade so we can have a cuppa while waiting for the traffic to move.
ECONOMY Minister, Vaughan Gething will today begin a series of talks with business leaders, trade experts and entrepreneurs in Atlanta and Birmingham (Alabama) to discuss how US economic policy is creating growth in places in need of investment and support.
Ahead of the signing of an International Friendship Pact with the City of Birmingham, the Minister is meeting with regional leaders and businesses to promote Wales’ economic strengths and learn lessons from their plans for inclusive growth.
While setting out the Welsh Government’s mission to help young people plan ambitious futures in Wales, the Economy Minister will promote key areas of strength with links to the US market, including TV & film, semiconductors, tech, renewables
and advanced manufacturing.
The talks follow yesterday’s news that Great Point Studios –which also has studios in Atlanta - has purchased Seren Stiwdios with support from the Welsh Government and Cardiff Capital Region to create state of the art production facilities and new job opportunities in the sector.
The Minister will speak to the Progressive Policy Institute at an event in Atlanta on Thursday, bringing together entrepreneurs, trade experts and city officials to share insights on supporting local growth and discuss how US economic policy is supporting their plans.
Wrexham based Moneypenny will also host the Minister at their Atlanta hub following a meeting with Airbus’s US team.
Shortly after signing a new International Friendship Pact between
Wales and Birmingham with city Mayor Randall Woodfin, Minister Vaughan Gething will visit the Innovation Depot, a business incubator for tech start ups.
Speaking ahead of the visit, the Economy Minister, said: “From the TV industry to semiconductors, Wales excels in markets with US investors and clients that support quality, skilled jobs.
‘With our brilliant manufacturing skills base and abundant wind and tidal energy opportunities, Wales is perfectly placed to exploit opportunities that are already creating jobs here in the US.’
“Our International Strategy is offering targeted support to exploit the growth potential of these sectors so that more people can plan ambitious futures in Wales. Recent Welsh Government trade missions have led to
new US investment in Wales from the gaming industry, with Rocket Science’s new HQ to semiconductors to KLA’s $100m investment in their Newport base.
“As we focus on securing better jobs and narrowing the skills divide to tackle poverty, I’m keen to learn more about how new US economic policies are partnering with states and cities to back industries of the future in places that need it most.
“Wales has so much to offer the world with a distinctive brand built on quality and ambition. Our longstanding and more recent export strengths - from aerospace to TV & Film – support the foundations that allows us to open doors for new exporters who are bolstering that brand week in, week out.”
The USA is now Wales’ number one export market.
Since 2021 businesses have invested $500bn in US manufacturing and clean energy, boosting jobs in areas most in need of investment.
In 2022 Welsh exports to the USA were worth over $4 billion, accounting for 20 per cent of Welsh exports and representing a 6 per cent increase compared
with 2021.
There are an estimated 320 USheadquartered companies in Wales, employing just under 49,000 people.
Notable examples include Amazon (Swansea), GE (Nantgarw), General Dynamics (Merthyr Tydfil), Kelloggs (Wrexham), Kimberley Clark (Flint), Meritor (Cwmbran), Nordam Europe (Caerphilly), Raytheon Systems (Flintshire), KLA (Newport) and Triumph Actuation Systems (Deeside).
For the last 10 years, the USA has consistently been Wales’s largest inward investment donor. In 2022-23, Wales secured 14 investments from the USA, promising to create 836 new jobs and to safeguard a further 537 jobs.
The Welsh Government is ambitious for the compound semiconductor industry in south Wales and will continue developing it further with major companies who are investing in the cluster. The Welsh Government is working with the SPTS division of KLA Corporation, a division that provides wafer processing solutions to semiconductor and
microelectronic device manufacturers, to support its plans to expand operations in Newport as part of an already announced $100 million investment creating 362 jobs.
The Welsh Government has become a signatory of an alliance of European regional governments, promoting growth, fostering collaboration, and developing strong value chains in the semiconductor industry. The Minister will call for a new level of ambition in the UK to boost investment beyond London and the South East in the industries of the future.
Rocket Science has announced that it will set up its new studio in Cardiff, with support from the Welsh Government via Creative Walescreating 50 highly paid and skilled jobs for games industry graduates and professionals, working directly on, and solving some of the hardest technical projects for the biggest video games in the world. This inward investment project was secured following a successful Welsh Government-led trade mission to the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco in 2022.
AROUND noon on Friday, September 28, 1990, a labourer at Nantycaws landfill in Carmarthenshire stumbled upon a disturbing find – a discovery that would trigger an extensive police investigation: a dismembered left leg of an infant.
Mike Lewis, the Carmarthen-man who made the gruesome discovery, said: “I had just got down from my machine for a break and I saw it, the child’s leg. It was just lying there, in the waste.
“It was a huge shock. I thought initially it was a limb from the hospital that came in with the waste. The remarkable thing was it seemed to be in perfect condition. It was the whole leg, sliced at the upper thigh, and cleanly cut.”
“I didn’t know what to do. I moved it a bit with a piece of slate so no-one would stand on it, then I went straight up to the office and phoned the authorities.”
Heddlu Dyfed-Powys
Police officers swiftly arrived, cordoned off the landfill site, and initiated an extensive search of the vicinity.
The initial objective of the investigation was to determine whether any other remains of the infant were in close proximity. Donning face masks, they sifted through tons of decomposing waste.
After hours of meticulously combing through the malodorous mound, police officers failed to uncover any additional body parts. Now, the investigation faced the daunting task of addressing the lingering questions posed by this isolated limb: How had the leg ended up in the landfill, and, of utmost importance, to whom did the leg belong, and what had happened to the child?
Police quickly ascertained that the leg belonged to a female infant, just a few months old.
The police required additional information, aiming to uncover a complete list of individuals who had used the tip and details about their visits to the landfill. They believed that someone must have had knowledge of the child and, consequently, the circumstances leading to her severed leg being found in Nantycaws tip.
Each refuse truck driver underwent questioning, but no leads emerged. Local health authorities swiftly refuted the possibility of the limb originating from hospital waste.
Mike Lewis said: “The police were there for more than two weeks, they wanted to know what lorries had come in and from where. I think they were hoping to find the rest of the body, but they never did.”
As the news circulated throughout Carmarthenshire, rumours began to circulate, and it didn’t take long for local residents to start discussing the prospects
of witchcraft and the potential involvement of ritualistic child-killing. Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police downplayed these assertions but were unable to provide any alternative theories, except for confirming that the limb had been severed with a sharp instrument, likely an axe.
Speaking just a week after the grim discovery, Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police Detective Superintendent Jeff Thomas appealed to the public for “anyone who may know of the sudden disappearance of a child to come forward”.
“We are asking the public to think about whether or not a baby girl in their street has gone missing.
“Somebody knows something.”
“This is not isolated to Dyfed – there is a possibility the refuse was collected from West Glamorgan or the M4 services.
“At this stage we don’t know whether the child was killed or died from some other cause and was dumped on the tip.
“We have conducted a thorough search, but I cannot say that we are 100% happy with the situation.”
The investigation extended beyond the local jurisdiction, with law enforcement agencies and social services from across the country delving into their records in a determined effort to unearth the truth about the enigmatic limb. Unfortunately, their efforts yielded no results.
Nearly thirty-three years have passed, and yet, we remain without any answers regarding the dismembered infant’s limb found at Nantycaws tip. When we inquired with Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police about the events of September 1990 and whether they had conducted DNA testing on the limb in an attempt to identify the victim or any existing family members, their response was:
“Dyfed-Powys Police is reviewing and conducting enquiries in relation to the child’s body part that was discovered in September 1990 at the refuse tip at Nantycaws, Carmarthen.
“The investigation remains open and an unidentified case at
this time. Dyfed-Powys Police will endeavour to attempt to identify the child and if successful informing and liaising with any familial relations remain the priority.”
In December 1989, a mere nine months before the unearthing of the infant’s remains at Nantycaws tip, the charred and severely mutilated body of a male baby was discovered on Redhills tip in Cumbria. This unfortunate child had suffered the loss of both legs. Despite instigating the most extensive murder investigation in Cumbria’s history, the identity of the child remains unknown, and the circumstances surrounding both infant deaths remain shrouded in mystery.
PEMBROKESHIRE
COUNTY COUNCIL has confirmed it is ceasing provision of grey bags and reverting to “household provided” black bags for residual (non-recyclable) waste collections.
The provision of grey bags for non-recyclable waste was introduced in 2019 to support major service changes that has seen Pembrokeshire named the best County in Wales for recycling for the last three years.
The provision of grey bags was continued through the Covid-19 period following its original introduction to support the service changes. However as part of budget saving measures agreed by Council earlier this year, no further deliveries of grey bags will be made to households by Pembrokeshire County Council.
Households will have to buy their own bin bags. They will continue to be able to place out a maximum of three bags of non-recyclable waste every three weeks and there will be no changes to waste and recycling collections dates.
The move to end the provision of grey bags brings Pembrokeshire into line with the vast majority of Welsh Local Authorities, including
neighbouring Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire Councils who also require households to provide black bags for non-recyclable waste collections.
Residents should continue to use up any existing grey bags as normal and then use household provided standard black bin bags (60litres) for non-
recyclable waste moving forward.
More information and FAQs are available via the kerbside collections: non-recyclable residual waste collections page on the Council website. Remaining stock of grey bags for nonrecyclable waste will be available for collection by households from locations across
Pembrokeshire from today (Wednesday, 20th September).
Grey bags – one roll per household – will be available from Waste and Recycling Centres (as part of a pre-booked WRC appointment), Leisure Centres, North Wing Reception at County Hall and Thornton.
These collections are
available while stocks last.
Containers to assist Recycling Collections continue to be provided free of charge and are available for collection from a number of locations across Pembrokeshire.
More information is available on the Waste and Recycling pages of the Council’s website.
Please note, there will be no other changes to waste and recycling at this time.
Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “Like all Councils across Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council is facing major pressures on our budget.
“In March the Council agreed a series of budget saving measures, including ceasing the provision of grey residual waste bags.
“Please use up any grey bags as normal and then use standard black bin bags.
“I thank the Pembrokeshire public
for helping us to become the best county in Wales at recycling again and hope that we can continue to make Pembrokeshire a cleaner and greener place to live.”
The Council is currently supporting a Welsh Government campaign that highlights that 48% of items placed out as waste can actually be recycled either through kerbside collections or our Waste and Recycling Centre’s. Of that, 17% is made up of food waste. The majority of this waste had been edible but not consumed such as gone off food, along with inedible waste such as egg-shells.
When this happens residents are being asked to empty it into a food waste caddy and recycle the packaging where possible to help Pembrokeshire remain the top recycler in Wales.
Further information on food waste collections is also available on the Council’s website.
A DISCONCERTING report from 2022 unveiled that six of the most polluted areas in the UK, where vast quantities of sewage are discharged into waterways, are situated in Wales, including prominent locations such as Pembrokeshire.
The revelations, made public by the Welsh Liberal Democrats, indicated that from Neath up to the North Wales coast, rivers and waterways had suffered from an excess of 300,000 hours of sewage dumping throughout 2022.
Jane Dodds MS, the leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, expressed her profound dismay at the findings. “It is truly appalling that, last year, six out of the 10 areas with the highest sewage discharge incidents were in our beloved Wales,” she commented.
“This not only tarnishes our environment and threatens our wildlife but also presents an imminent risk to everyone
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailwho cherishes and utilises our rivers.”
Ms Dodds did not mince words in pointing out the shortcomings of the ruling parties,
criticising both the Conservatives in Westminster for their inaction regarding river pollution, and the Labour Ministers in Cardiff Bay for not addressing Dŵr Cymru’s role in the environmental crisis and the escalating water bills.
Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, the primary water service provider in the region, had its rating reduced to two stars earlier this year due to their inability to manage pollution events effectively. The Liberal Democrats highlighted
that the company was implicated in a staggering 89 sewage pollution episodes in 2022 alone.
In a move that raised many an eyebrow, Dŵr Cymru proceeded with an announcement about price hikes last year, resulting in the
average water bill in Wales skyrocketing to the second highest across both Wales and England.
A detailed list provided by the Liberal Democrats identified the six Welsh constituencies with the most egregious records for sewage discharge:
• Carmarthen East and Dinefwr
• Dwyfor Meirionnydd
• Preseli
Pembrokeshire
• Ogmore
• Ceredigion
• Brecon and Radnorshire
Additionally, it is noteworthy that Carmarthen East and South Pembrokeshire narrowly missed the top ten, securing the 11th spot.
With the ball now squarely in the court of the regulators and Dŵr Cymru, the people of Wales and environmental enthusiasts will be watching closely, hoping for swift rectification measures.
THE NATIONAL SOCIETY for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) hails the enactment of the Online Safety Bill as a landmark step towards the protection of children on the web.
The legislation, after enduring years of rigorous debate and analysis in Parliament, mandates tech giants to fundamentally integrate child safety measures into their platforms, be it social media, gaming apps, or messaging services.
It can be recalled that the Government first committed to this regulation at the NSPCC’s 2018 annual convention, following the initiation of the charity’s Wild West Web campaign. Since then, the NSPCC has played an instrumental role in refining the bill as it navigated the complex corridors of Parliament.
With online child abuse offences soaring to unparalleled highs and disturbing content regarding self-harm and suicide rampant on social media, the legislation couldn’t be timelier. Recent NSPCC data disclosed a startling 82% spike in recorded online grooming crimes while the bill was in deliberation.
Moreover, the urgency of this bill was tragically underscored by the case of Molly Russell, 14, who took her life last year after being subjected to disturbing content on social media.
Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC Chief Executive, expressed his sentiments: “The passing of the Online Safety Bill signifies an epochal day for our children, ensuring
they receive the vital protection they deserve online. Every day, we hear harrowing accounts from children about the insurmountable online abuses they undergo, which is why we’ve ardently championed for this change.”
Survivors and bereaved parents have heavily influenced the shaping of the Online Safety Bill. Mared Parry, a survivor from Wales, shared her harrowing experience, stating, “When I was 14, older men would demand photographs. In hindsight, I realise I was coaxed into sending images. This legislation is crucial to shield others from similar fates.”
Ruth Moss, a mother who tragically lost her daughter to online harmful content, adds, “Sophie was 13 when she took her own life after encountering distressing content
online. This Bill might not be the panacea for all online evils children face, but it’s an imperative step towards holding platforms accountable.”
The charity’s Young People’s Board for Change also passionately lobbied for the Bill, with members asserting, “The online realm should invariably be a sanctuary for
everyone.”
As the Bill finds its place in law, the NSPCC remains unwavering in its dedication to ensuring it genuinely crafts a safer digital haven for children.
Ah, squark, squark! Stephen Seagull here, flying in from the shores of Pembrokeshire to drop some feathery wisdom on your laps. And don’t worry, I promise not to drop anything else.
Ah, yes. The winds are rustling and not just through my plumage, but through the corridors of power in Downing Street. Rishi Sunak, a chap I could never quite picture sharing a bag of chips with on the pier, has just shown the UK how NOT to lead in a climate crisis.
First off, let’s not mince feathers; what’s good for the planet is generally good for the economy. Our mate Rishi, however, seems to think he’s living in a parallel universe where eco-friendly policies are a thorn in the claw of the British working class. The gentleman opts to delay a ban on new petrol and diesel car sales from 2030 to 2035. Likewise, he’s offering more time for the jolly transition from gas boilers to heat pumps. And energy efficiency rules for landlords? Chuck ‘em in the sea, apparently. It’s as if Sunak’s turned his back to the tide and is pretending it won’t come in. Well, it will, Rishi, it will.
You see, squark, climate change isn’t something you can procrastinate on like a last-minute tax return. And let’s not ignore the flock of confusion this sends out to businesses investing in the green transition. Do you think they want to spend their hard-earned mealworms
– erm, I mean pounds – on an initiative the government might suddenly abandon faster than a seagull swoops in on unattended fries?
Sunak argues that should the government keep sailing toward its net-zero target, it risks “losing the consent of the people.” Ah, consent, that cornerstone of democracy that feels increasingly like an albatross around our collective necks. But let’s not be bird-brained here; governments
should guide the will of the people, not bow to short-sighted populism. If it’s really about easing burdens during a cost-of-living crisis, there are better flight paths to take. A targeted, well-feathered net can help those struggling with the immediate costs of green transition. No need to dismantle the whole aviary. It’s about leadership; it’s about vision; it’s about not putting your head under the sand like an ostrich when the storms are
gathering.
And ah, don’t even get me started on the international implications. Britain was a soaring eagle, the first major economy to legislate for net zero by 2050. Now, we’ve turned into a cooing pigeon, leaving the skies open for other countries to slacken their wings and slow down their own eco-efforts.
Even from my bird’s eye view, it’s easy to see that this retreat harms the UK’s standing
in the ever-competitive green economy race.
While we idle, China is stealing the worm and the Biden administration is planting the seeds for an economic forest of green innovation. Squark, indeed!
The Conservative government, in their attempt to paint themselves as the protectors of short-term family expenses, seems to forget that climate change won’t wait for political convenience.
True leadership means
carrying the electorate through the inevitable challenges, not throwing breadcrumbs and calling it a feast.
In summary, Rishi, if you want to make an omelette, you’ve got to be willing to break some eggs, even if those eggs involve tough decisions. The planet can’t wait. The economy can’t wait. And trust me, we seagulls certainly won’t wait — especially when there are chips to be had. Squark!
National Trust Cymru close the Blue Lagoon in Pembrokeshire to the public to protect breeding seals from disturbance, however due to some early arrivals, the conservation charity have closed the lagoon a week earlier than planned.
There’s been an increasing numbers of the Grey seal population breeding in and around the lagoon over recent years. This combined with the Blue Lagoon’s high visitor numbers and its sheltered nature, which makes it so attractive to seals, creates a situation where there is a high potential for disturbance to seals.
As a result, the former slate quarry at Abereiddi will close from Saturday 16 September through to 4 November.
Mark Underhill, National Trust Cymru’s Countryside Manager, Pembrokeshire said:
“There are two species of seal that can be found in Britain; the Common seal and the Grey seal. Only Grey seals occur regularly in Pembrokeshire, where they are present all year around.”
“About half the world’s population of Grey Seal breed on our coastline and the total number in West Wales, mostly Pembrokeshire,
is estimated to be about 5,000, with some 1,400 pups being born each year.”
“The breeding season is vital for our seal colonies here in Pembrokeshire, and we ask that visitors do not access the Blue Lagoon and that they follow the guidelines laid out by the Seal Alliance and Pembrokeshire Marine Code when on the coastal path.”
The time seals spend resting on land is vital to their health and that of their pups as they are digesting a recent meal, socialising, and feeding
their young. In order to provide them with a safe environment to raise their pups, National Trust Cymru will be closing the Blue Lagoon to visitors from 16 September through to 4 November. Re-opening is subject to seal breeding activity at that time.
Visitors will still be able to watch these wild creatures in their habitat from the Wales Coast Path and coasteering activity providers who have signed up to the National Trust’s Coasteering Agreement and undertaken specific training on how to
operate around seals, will still have access to the lagoon with groups of visitors who have booked in advance.
To avoid disturbing seals at this very important time of year, National Trust Cymru recommends following the Pembrokeshire Marine Code: Stay quiet, keep your distance and at least 50m away from seals and never come between a seal and her pup, or a seal and the sea and don’t take dogs near a seal breeding area.
They also ask that if a seal is spotted in
distress or alone never approach the pup. Seals are often left alone on the beach and distress can be caused by contact with people. Sadly, also at this time of year some seal pups don’t survive. Whilst it’s distressing to find a dead seal pup, there are a number of natural causes that can cause them to lose their lives
To raise any concerns about seals or seal pups contact conservation group Welsh Marine Life Rescue 01646 692943 or 07970 285086 who will be able to offer you further guidance.
TWO concerts within a September week began Pembroke and District Male Voice’s autumn season.
On a warm evening the 13th Century St Gwynog’s Church at St Twynnells was the first venue. The concert, for church funds, was well supported with first bass Edward Morris deputising as MC in his own church. He made an instant success of the role, including excellent jokes, and is now officially deputy MC.
The following week the choir made its second annual visit to St John’s Church, Tenby.
Matthew John returned from holiday as MC and included a poem in his interval asides – a first for the choir.
There was an international flavour to the large audience with visitors from the USA, Germany and The Netherlands.
Musical Director Juliet Rossiter was supported by accompanist Carole Rees and soloists at both concerts were Alyson Griffiths, on flute, and Peter Halifax, on guitar. Alyson’s choices varied from Mozart’s ‘Oh for the wings of a
dove’ to Art Garfunkel’s ‘Bright Eyes’ while Peter sang a Ukrainian piece and others of his own composition – one for the first time in public.
There as a very
special welcome for first tenor David Asparassa who was determined to join the ranks despite recent ill health. The finale item, Elvis Presely’s ‘American
Trilogy’, was dedicated to David with all his friends’ best wishes.
Choir President Clive Collins and his wife, Enid, attended both
concerts. Excellent refreshments were provided by the ladies of both churches. They were thanked by choir vice chairman Meurig Rees.
IT WAS a scene reminiscent of yesteryears at the RAF St Davids Airfield this past Friday, 15th September. The echoes of wartime reverberated around the venue as a fitting tribute was unveiled on the 80th anniversary of the airfield’s establishment.
The poignant ceremony culminated with a nostalgic flypast by an Avro Anson, a wartime-era aircraft, honouring the memory of those who tragically lost their lives serving at the airfield. In addition, the event was an ode to all military and civilian personnel who rendered their services during both war and peaceful times.
Masterminded by Malcolm Gray – the artisan behind the three slate plaques that now form the memorial –along with stalwarts Ian Panton and John James, the ceremony drew inspiration from an initiative set forth by the late Alun James of Carnhedryn, a fervent local historian.
The memorial,
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailingeniously crafted using a section of a wall from a wartime edifice, was gracefully unveiled by Councillor Emma Evans, the Mayor of St Davids, with Councillor Bira Sehmi, the Deputy Mayor, by her side.
Adding to the occasion’s gravitas was the Chief guest, Air Commodore Adrian Williams, the RAF’s Air Officer Wales, who honoured the memory of the fallen by laying a wreath at the memorial. The ceremony was further sanctified by the Rev William Owen of Caerfachell. Morgan Price’s rendition of The Last Post and Reveille, along with the standards paraded by the Royal British Legion’s Solva and St Davids branches and the Air Cadets of the 948 (Haverfordwest and City of St David’s) Squadron, added to the solemnity of the occasion.
John Evans of the Pembrokeshire Aviation Group took attendees on a journey through the airfield’s illustrious
50-year active history, starting in 1943. The commemoration saw many with a familial bond to RAF St Davids, including Mr Bryan John of Solva, whose affiliation with the RAF led him to work with the Airwork company based in St Davids and later at Brawdy.
From Cawdor Barracks, Captain Shane Murphy and Warrant Officer (RAF) Greg Moodie were also in attendance.
Following the formal proceedings, guests reconvened at the St Davids RAFA Club, where they were greeted by Chairman Malcolm Clift, indulging in some welldeserved refreshments. Notably, the RAF Ensign proudly flew over Cross Square, St Davids that day.
The day’s ceremonies saw the twin-engined Anson, piloted by owner Glenn James from Shropshire, using the Haverfordwest Airport as its base. A later rendezvous took place between Air Commodore Williams and the Anson crew at Withybush.
The Anson based at Sleap, Shropshire, is one of only two flying in this country and thought to be just one of three anywhere in the world to still be operating.
The flying visit to Haverfordwest was part of a commemorative event at the former RAF St Davids Airfield marking 80 years since the airfield’s opening.
The Anson performed a flypast as part of a ceremony remembering all those who had served at the airfield.
Tower team is restoring a similar version.
In RAF and Royal Navy service Ansons had a long life, from 1936 up to the late 1960s.
The Anson is painted in wartime camouflage and carries its original serial WD413.
Airport Manager Phil Davies, said: “It’s been great that we have been able to welcome some very different but important flights into the Airport in recent weeks.
H AVERFORDWEST
Airport has welcomed some special visitors just a week apart.
The Pembrokeshire County Council operated Airport welcomed TRH
The Prince and Princess of Wales to Withybush at short notice when their
helicopter was unable to
the Airport and thanked staff for their assistance before heading off to their engagements.
While the Anson is a rare sight these days, in wartime Ansons would regularly be spotted in Pembrokeshire skies.
While the Anson stole the show, an impressive RAF Atlas 400 which was exercising in the area took the opportunity to mark a visit of RAF’s Air Officer Wales, Air Commodore Adrian Williams to the Airport with an impromptu flypast.
“It was a pleasure to welcome the royal couple and then the Avro Anson. It shows that you never quite know what to expect from day to day but we were proud to play our part in these flying visits to Pembrokeshire.”
More information on Haverfordwest Airport is available on the Council’s website.
land in St Davids due to low cloud on Friday, September 8th.
The royal couple transferred to a car at
The unexpected royal visit was followed by the unusual sight of a World War Two era Avro Anson landing at the Airport the following Friday.
Many were based at RAF Carew Cheriton, training wireless operators, and Ansons would have been seen operating in and out of all the local airfields.
The Carew Control
A DERELICT
‘eyesore’ motel close to the Pembrokeshire seaside village of Newgale could soon be redeveloped as a tourism and community business hub.
A Pre-Application Consultation was launched on September 15, by Nick Neumann of Newgale Holidays on plans to redevelop the former Roch Gate Motel to a mixed commercial and community use hub called ‘The Gate,’ including a village shop/post office, bistro/takeaway, conference facilities and business units together ancillary works, and a separate tourism development of up to 25 holiday lodges.
The consultation – and a supporting statement – has been submitted with agent Andrew VaughanHarries of Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd ahead of any formal application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The application relates to the former motel site, recently purchased by Mr Neumann, and adjacent farmland at Rainbolts Hill Farm on the edge of the village of Roch.
The former motel –dubbed an “eyesore” in previous applications – closed back in 2008 and has a history of later approved planning schemes, including as a bespoke hotel and an affordable housing scheme, but none have come to fruition.
Agent Andrew Vaughan-Harries of Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, in a supporting statement, said: “The former motel site has laid vacant for several years and is now derelict and largely abandoned. Despite an application being granted for its redevelopment as a bespoke hotel and a more recent application for an affordable housing scheme being recommended
for approval by the authority (subject to the completion of a legal agreement) neither of these schemes have materialised.
“These schemes were submitted by the previous owner of the site and clearly failed to deliver.
“The application proposal comprises different business, commercial, community and tourism elements. Since purchasing the site more recently, the applicant seeks to present a different and exciting mixed-use redevelopment on the site which would be of significant benefit to the local community.
“The authority has previously accepted that the site is unlikely to return to its previous use as a motel/hotel. Roch has sadly recently lost its only village shop/post office and fish and chip shop. The shop/post office closed in the last 12 months and the fish and chip shop several years ago.
“The proposed business/community hub would include the provision of a replacement village
shop/post office, a bistro with small food takeaway facility, rooms that would be available for conferences and local community uses, together with three small business units.”
The statement added: “In addition to the business/community hub, it is also proposed to create a modest tourism development comprising up to 25 holiday lodges on part of the adjacent field to the southwest. This tourism development forms part of the overall business plan for the site and to provide an income stream in support of the main redevelopment site.”
Mr Vaughan-Harries said the applicant also wants “to give back to the local community” with the introduction of a community garden, open to all, including being offered out to local playgroups and schools for learning and development in the outdoors.
Following the launch of the pre-application, Mr Neumann said: “Today is the first notable milestone on our journey to redevelop the former Roch Gate Motel site. Today we launch our PreApplication Consultation
(PAC) and ask for initial feedback to our vision and development plans for the site.
“It’s taken us nearly
eight months to get this far and we thank Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd and Landsker Business
Solutions Ltd for their support and tenacity.
“The purpose of this Pre-Application Consultation is for everyone to have their say whether good, bad or ugly, as we believe the richness of feedback will only but help us improve upon the scheme.”
All relevant documentation surrounding the proposals is available on the Hayston Development & Planning Ltd website.
Anyone who wishes to make representations about this proposed development must do so by October 20, with the formal consultation period commencing on Monday, September 18.
Responses should be emailed or posted to Hayston Development & Planning Ltd, of Planning Studio, Hayston Bridge, Johnston, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA62 3HJ. Tel: 01437 891817 Mobile: 07515 851704.
A HAVERFORDWEST project which aims to improve the mental health of the people of West Wales by providing free support, is appealing for votes to be crowned National Lottery Project of the Year.
Get The Boys a Lift beat off stiff competition from 3,780 organisations to reach the public voting stage in this year’s National Lottery Awards, which celebrates the inspirational projects and people who do extraordinary things with the help of National Lottery funding.
There are 17 shortlisted finalists from across the UK, all of which will compete in a four-week public vote from 11th September to 9th October to be named the National Lottery Project of the Year. Winners will receive a £5,000 cash prize for their project and an iconic National Lottery Awards trophy.
Get The Boys A Lift (GTBAL) is a not-for-profit organisation launched by a group of friends which
Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.emailprovides free mental health support to the people of Pembrokeshire while promoting open discussions about mental wellbeing. The project has gone from strength to strength since 2016, now offering a mix of in-person and online counselling services to anyone over 17.
The team run a clothing and coffee shop in Haverfordwest called ‘Our Place’, offering a unique café experience where visitors can chat to counsellors and make new friends. The project’s dropin service has provided around 500 people with free and easy support, without the challenge of extensive waiting lists. The project’s online counselling service, which launched during the pandemic, also gives clients the option to have sessions remotely.
With support from The National Lottery, the project was able to buy
a coffee van in 2022, allowing representatives to travel further afield, not only raising funds to maintain the organisation’s services, but promoting its core message about the importance of openness around mental health.
GTBAL runs regular events across the region, including outreach in schools and workplaces as well as community events. Its ‘Break the Stigma’ coffee van has been stationed at Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire across the summer, giving the team a chance to spread the GTBAL message to a wider audience, not only to local people, but the region’s many visitors. Profits from the project’s bespoke clothing range, which includes everything from hoodies to beach towels, go back into the team’s crucial work.
Greg Walters, Director at GTBAL, said: “It is a real honour to be nominated and to be part of this process. It feels really special to be recognised for
the work we do at Get the Boys a Lift. Thanks the to support of our community we’ve been able to save a lot of lives. We hope that people will vote for us and we can continue to spread the word about the help we provide!”
Jonathan Tuchner, from The National Lottery, added: “We’re so pleased to have received so many nominations highlighting the excellent work that National Lottery-funded projects are doing up and down the UK. It’s no secret that times are tough, so it’s
great to see so many people and projects dedicating so much time and energy into giving something back to their communities.
“It’s thanks to National Lottery players, who raise more than £30 million each week for good causes, that the work of these amazing projects is made possible.
“Get The Boys A Lift are making an incredible impact in their local community and they thoroughly deserve to be in the finals of the National Lottery Awards Project of the Year 2023. With your
support, they could be a winner.”
To vote for Get The Boys A Lift, please go to lotterygoodcauses.org. uk/awards. Or simply use their specific hashtag on X (formerly known as Twitter) #NLAGTBAL . Voting runs from 9am on 11th September until 12pm on 9th October.
For further information please contact The National Lottery Awards: Oswyn Hughes on 07976 324 179 or email oswyn.hughes@ lotterygoodcauses.org.uk
Deputy Medical Director at the health board said: “This year, we held clinical skills and simulation workshops in our four main hospital sites, Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth, Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen, Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli, and Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest.
“We want to raise awareness about this great opportunity with people interested in having a medical career in our local NHS. I hope it encourages and inspires them to consider the possibilities and give it a go.
those departments and colleagues that were involved with making this year’s programme such a great success. The feedback from the pupils that attended the programme has been heartening. We will continue to build on this success, enhancing the experiences we provide to further inspire, encourage and support pupils from our local areas to embark on medical and healthcare careers within Hywel Dda.”
LOCAL future medical students from across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire are learning ‘on the job’ as part of Hywel Dda University Health Board’s ‘Becoming a
Doctor’ programme. The medical work experience initiative gives students the chance to practice simulated suturing, cannulation and to learn from different clinical scenarios.
The ‘Becoming a
Doctor’ programme provides students with people-focused experiences and an insight into the realities of caring for others. It supports the development of the skills and values needed to become a doctor,
such as leadership, communication, teamwork, the ability to interact with different people, as well as a realistic understanding of the physical and emotional demands of a career in medicine.
Mark Henwwood,
Helen Thomas, Head of Medical Education & Professional Standards said:
“This year we were really excited to launch the new ‘Becoming a Doctor’ programme across Hywel Dda. We would like to thank all
Our ‘Becoming a Doctor’ programme incorporates medical school application support (which includes presentations and guidance from admissions staff from Cardiff and Swansea medical schools), clinical skills and simulation workshops, hospital/GP observation placements where appropriate.
A new generation of role models for sport and physical activity in Pembrokeshire met recently to share ideas and listen to the inspiring stories of older ambassadors.
The Bronze Young Ambassador conference was attended by more than 80 children in years five and six.
Organised by Sport Pembrokeshire, the conference included first aid training, digital platform training and motivational and informative talks.
Rominy Colville from Sport Pembrokeshire said the Young Ambassador programme identifies young people who can act as a role model and champion for PE, school sport and physical activity.
“It’s really important to encourage children and young people to be active and give them
opportunities to take part in sport and games,” she said.
“The Young Ambassadors play a hugely important role in this, and we’re really grateful for their work.”
Eleven Silver and Gold Young Ambassadors from Haverfordwest High VC School also attended to act as mentors for the younger pupils. They included Libi Phillips and Carys Ribbon who spoke about their journeys on the Young Ambassador pathway.
Chloe Jordan from Youth Sport Trust spoke about the importance of their role to inspire, influence and lead others, while Bleddyn Gibbs (Power lifting Gold Medallist at the Special Olympics World Games) joined the event for the closing ceremony.
Rominy said they had received great feedback.
“The participants’ comments highlighted how they enjoyed taking part in different activities like boccia and they
are looking forward to sharing their ideas and helping younger pupils become more active in their schools,” she said.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to a great conference – and we’re looking forward to
continuing to support the Bronze Young Ambassadors as they progress throughout the year.”
THINKING of a career in engineering and maintenance?
Want to find out more?
Pop along to Sellafield Ltd’s first dedicated careers day at the end of this month.
The event promises to be a fantastic opportunity for young people, recent graduates, and anyone interested in pursuing a career in engineering and maintenance at the renowned nuclear site.
The day is being hosted at the company’s off-site facility at the Engineering at Centre of Excellence on the Leconfield Industrial Estate in Cleator Moor on Saturday 30 September 10am - 2pm.
Engineering and maintenance represent some of the most critical professions at the Sellafield site, and the company is keen to engage with individuals eager to be part of their team.
The event will serve as a platform to showcase the diverse and exciting engineering and maintenance opportunities that Sellafield has to offer.
Gary Dixon, Head of Enterprise Engineering at Sellafield Ltd, said: “At Sellafield, we are proud to be at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the nuclear industry.
“Our engineering and maintenance careers day is the perfect opportunity for young talent to learn about the incredible opportunities available here.
“Whether you’re considering an apprenticeship, degree apprenticeship, graduate placement, or exploring roles within mechanical and electrical disciplines, we have a place for you.
“Join us on September 30th, and let’s shape the future of nuclear engineering together.”
Some of the opportunities available at the Sellafield site include:
• Apprenticeships: Start your career journey with hands-on training and guidance from industry experts.
• Degree Apprenticeships: Combine work and study, gaining valuable experience while earning your degree.
• Graduate and Student Placements: Launch your career with a leading nuclear organisation and make a difference from day one.
• Roles Across Mechanical and Electrical Disciplines: Explore various engineering and maintenance fields and contribute to groundbreaking projects.
To register for the careers day register on event brite - https://www. eventbrite.com/e/engineering-maintenancecareers-fair-tickets-
BADGER instinctively likes to take his time about things.
High-speed jinks are not for a fat weasel built more for comfort than for speed.
He does not care for boy racers with noisy exhausts on pocket rockets. As for those who zip around doing eighty in a sixty in their show pony sports cars, he can’t help thinking they’re all sad cases of BCSD: Big Car, Small Dick. Cars designed to do over the ton on an Autobahn on Autostrade make a statement. They state: “I have more money than sense”.
Pembrokeshire’s roads are designed to ensure the chances of getting to top speed in any vehicle are virtually nil unless you want to get up close and personal with a hedge.
So, readers, you’d expect Badger to be right behind the Welsh Government’s latest wheeze to reduce speed limits to 20mph on around 35% of Welsh roads. Let’s be clear: Badger thinks there is no need for anyone to drive at more than 20mph on residential streets in towns, through city centres, or near schools and playgrounds.
However, and it’s a big “however”, Badger thinks the Welsh Government’s introduction of a default speed limit of 20mph is a misstep and symptomatic of a wider malaise within government from Cardiff Bay.
As Badger writes these words, the number of signatures on a petition demanding the Labour government abandon the 20mph default exceeds 300,000.
Petitions and social media outrage are not means of government. However, any competent politician should not ignore an outcry of such size. It’s bad politics and smacks of the arrogance of unchallenged power.
You can’t do much better than Labour in Wales regarding unchallenged power. The devolved government is a de-facto one-party state. Labour knows that population distribution and the myth it is the party of the working class mean it will always be the largest party in the Welsh Parliament.
In the Senedd, Labour’s frontbench is dominated by former special advisors and long-term party hacks. They are disconnected from those they purport to represent because they belong to the same narrow cadre of careerists and true believers. And the same broadly applies to the Labour backbenches. The Welsh Government’s Civil Service, such as it is, is even worse. The Welsh Government as an institution is so merged with the interests of a single political party that they are indistinguishable. And because everything is based in Cardiff, what feebly passes for Wales’s
national media is attached to the Welsh Government and its interests in the same way as remora fish batten onto sharks and live off scraps.
The above goes a long way to explain why the Welsh Government is generally incompetent (it knows it can get away with it, and the media look the other way). It also explains why the Welsh Government is divorced from the lived reality of everyday life outside its bubble.
Eighty per cent of Wales is rural. You can forget “active travel” to work, buses, metros, and trains. The only way to travel for work is by car. And the Welsh Government knows this. When Lee Waters stated the bleeding obvious, however, he was pounced upon by Plaid Cymru and the usual cabal of “green” interests for lacking ambition and denying rural Wales access to bicycle deliveries of organic quinoa and nutritious wholemeal
bracken.
Labour’s overarching strategy is to reduce car use in Wales. Making the experience of driving on Welsh roads even worse than it is already is one way to achieve its aim. By failing to distinguish between urban and extraurban roads and making excluding the latter from the 20mph default so bureaucratically difficult, the Welsh Government has been blinded by its limited horizons and self-interest.
Labour points to its manifesto as giving it a mandate for introducing a 20mph limit. Here is the 20mph pledge: “We will make 20mph the default speed limit in residential areas and ban pavement parking wherever possible”.
Eleven words. Count them.
Now, let’s consider them: “in residential areas”. Define “residential area”, readers. Labour’s manifesto doesn’t, and the source material for the legislation barely sketches
“There is a lack of data regarding 20mph speed limits in any rural or small town settings. This is a significant gap in the evidence.”
In short, the worst way of assessing a default 20mph speed limit is how the Welsh Government went about it.
The paper from which that quote comes is an academic review of literature on the topic and not primary research. The primary research paper to which that quote specifically refers is one quoted by Public Health Wales in support of a 20mph limit. That paper was, in turn, written by people who worked for Public Health Wales. It is cited in the final report to the Welsh Government on 20mph.
it out. It’s a definite promise, but there is no detail. Some Conservative fury against the policy is undoubtedly confected for partisan reasons. However, Conservatives who backed the policy in July 2020 are justified in thinking they bought a pig in a poke.
Even academic papers the Welsh Government promoted as part of its desire to push 20mph contain significant caveats.
This is an extract from one of them: “In a complex system such as the built and natural environment, it is rarely possible or appropriate to undertake an experimental approach (such as a randomised controlled trial) that can in other circumstances offer the best way of assessing causality… Some caution is therefore recommended as much of the evidence examined was reliant on findings from before and after studies, albeit it is unlikely that further studies would reverse the conclusions.
One of the authors of the primary research paper was Dr Huw Brunt, the Welsh Government’s Chief Environmental Public Health Officer.
That is marking your own homework on an epic scale.
With its stunning - perhaps “stunned”mandate from the Welsh electorate, the Welsh Government didn’t bother to consult the public again. It went straight to the experts and appointed a working group of people interested in pursuing its agenda and with a track record of pushing it elsewhere, chaired by someone whose bias is a matter of public record.
The working group heard from other experts and stakeholders, including - again - Sustrans, an organisation formerly headed in Wales by the Welsh Government’s transport minister, Lee Waters.
That is typical of how Wales is government by stitch-up.
No wonder people are angry. They’re fed up with being taken for granted.
WITH the grassroots football season in Wales kicking off, the nation is buzzing with anticipation for a promising future in the sport.
However, a new report from M&S Food suggests that changes are necessary to bridge the growing gap in health and fitness between footballing heroes and the Welsh public.
The report, commissioned by M&S Food in collaboration with the Football Association Home Nations’ partnerships, reveals a concerning disparity in nutrition and lifestyle between professional footballers and the general population. While footballers are known for their incredible fitness levels, capable of running up to 14 kilometres per match during a 60game season, public health paints a starkly different picture, with 25% of people in Wales classified as obese.
Furthermore, poor nutrition is affecting the growth and development of children in the country. British five-year-olds are up to seven centimetres shorter than their European counterparts of the same age, with noticeable height differences even within different areas of the UK.
To delve deeper into these issues, the report features research and interviews with current and former footballers, elite football nutritionists, and chefs. The goal is to use football’s power to create a healthier future for UK families.
The ‘M&S Eat Well, Play Well Report’ reveals that only one in five people in Wales (20%) feel they maintain a consistently healthy relationship with food. Additionally, 19% admit to a lack of confidence
in making healthy and balanced food choices.
One of the major issues highlighted in the report is the prevalence of unstructured eating habits, with over a fifth (22%) of respondents admitting to skipping lunch, and nearly the same number (18%) skipping breakfast at least once a month. Fast food is another concern, with 19% stating that their households request takeaways at least once a week, and 26% requesting other unhealthy foods during the same timeframe.
People find it most challenging to maintain a healthy diet in the evening, with dinner (25%) and evening snacks (20%) being the most common times for
consuming unhealthy food.
Cooking skills also play a role in people’s dietary choices. While the average person in Wales can cook 13 different meals at home, over 5% admit they never cook at home at all. Most respondents (57%) who do cook at home prepare just one meal for their households each week. Interestingly, 53% of those surveyed said their diets were influenced by others’ dietary requirements or fussy preferences.
When it comes to making healthy food choices, 41% check for sugar levels on food labels, 37% check the fat content, while a third (33%) admit to not checking labels at
all. Almost one in three (30%) are looking for easier-to-understand food labelling.
Cost is also a significant factor, with more than a quarter (27%) finding it too expensive to buy healthy food all the time, and 16% struggling to find healthy options within their budgets.
Despite these challenges, 59% believe they maintain a healthy and balanced diet, recognizing the positive impact of healthy foods and drinks on sporting performance. However, only 19% say they eat a healthy balanced meal before exercising.
To address these issues, M&S Food is pledging to help families make healthier and
more affordable nutrition choices through various initiatives, including supporting those in need, education, outreach, expanding the Eat Well range, and maintaining high standards of food sourcing.
Former Wales international footballer Danny Gabbidon emphasized the importance of nutrition, stating, “Nutrition has come a long way since I first started my career. We didn’t have the kind of personalized diet plans and scientific insights that exist in today’s game.”
Gabbidon added, “Football has a unique ability to bring people together and create a positive impact both on and off the pitch, and
with the expertise of M&S nutritionists and insights from footballers, we can pave the way towards a healthier future for Wales.”
Sophia Linn, M&S Eat Well Nutritionist and co-author of the report, stressed the need for families to have the knowledge to consume a nutrient-rich diet that helps them thrive, whether at school, work, or on the pitch.
“We’re here to help families get the nutrients they need through our campaign, with hints and tips perfect for everyday life,” Linn said.
For more information on M&S Food’s efforts to promote healthy eating, visit www.marksandspencer. com/c/food-to-order/health/ healthy-eating.
NEWPORT, a town steeped in history and culture, is about to become a culinary haven once again as the eagerly anticipated Newport Food Festival, organised by Grwp Resilience, returns on the 29th October4th November for its annual celebration of gastronomic delights.
Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the heart of Newport, where food, fun, and community spirit come together like never before.
While the Narberth weekend spectacular has built up a deserved reputation, organisers Grwp Resilience are on a mission! Seeking to reconnect eaters with the land, the festival activities include farm visits, cooking activities using harvested ingredients and learning from food experts.
All week there will be visits to farms, smallholdings, gardens and talks by producers, to learn and connect, hear local stories and explore both the ancient history and future vista of food from our land.
Each day has a theme, from Monday
where visitors will meet the Chefs, Tuesday visiting farms, Wednesday focused on Wild Living and the big day on Thursday where the festival and food fair will take place in the hall. Friday will be about family and community leading to the final day on Saturday where people can let their hair down for a party!
The Newport Food Festival prides itself on highlighting the incredible talents of local chefs and culinary creators. Be prepared to witness live cooking demonstrations by some of the region’s most celebrated chefs, as they showcase their skills and share their culinary secrets. It’s an opportunity to learn, be inspired, and perhaps even replicate some of their dishes at home.
Co
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Organised by Grwp Resilience, the Newport Food Festival is not just about great food; it’s about community, resilience, and coming together to celebrate local businesses. The festival serves as a platform for small-scale producers and artisans to
showcase their offerings, strengthening the local economy and fostering a sense of togetherness as well as to hear local stories and explore the ancient history, thinking about where our food comes from and how we come together as a community, through our love of good food and company.
S H o P
One of the festival’s key objectives is to encourage attendees to shop locally and support the businesses that make Newport unique. Discover hidden gems and uncover new favorite products while helping the local economy thrive.
Mark your calendars for the Newport Food Festival and come prepared to indulge your senses. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just looking for a fun day out with the family, this event promises an unforgettable experience.
People are encouraged to register and book into the daily events as numbers are limited click here
THE OVERCAST skies and ominous weather forecasts weren’t enough to hold back the revving energy of over 200 engines today at the County Showground in Haverfordwest. The event? The 24th Paul Sartori Pembrokeshire Car Run, an occasion that has grown to be a hallmark for car enthusiasts and community supporters alike.
The spectrum of participants this year was broad: from sleek cars and sturdy vans to roaring motorbikes and some indescribably magnificent machines. Each of these machines rolled onto the grounds, united in spirit and enthusiasm for the grand event.
Despite the Met Office’s grim weather warnings, the atmosphere was electric, palpable with the excitement and fervor of the participants. And as the engines roared, awaiting the ceremonial flag-off, the day was brightened further by Haverfordwest mayor, Cllr Jill Owens, and the Chairman of the
Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society, Brian Jones, MBE.
Event chairman Phil Thompson remarked on the event’s turnout, “It’s wonderful to see so many vehicles turn out to support us once again this year.”
He lauded the efforts of everyone involved, emphasizing that it wasn’t just about the motorists but also the organisers, marshals, and the throngs of spectators. “The effort that everyone puts into the Paul Sartori Pembrokeshire Car Run is incredible. That extends right from the organizers and marshals to the motorists, and of course, the spectators,” he added.
Following tradition, this year’s route began in Haverfordwest, tracing the A478 through Solva, moving on to St Davids, and then heading northbound towards Goodwick, Fishguard, and Newport. The grand finale of the car run was at the picturesque Dyfed Shire Horse Farm in Eglwyswrw.
Rooted deeply in community spirit and tradition, the event owes
its inception 24 years ago to Jeff and Sian Edwards, who not only founded this grand day but also continue to ardently support it. Thompson said, “What Jeff and Sian have given to the event over the years is exceptional.”
Emphasising the event’s significance for the region, Thompson noted, “The Run really is a fantastic day for Pembrokeshire, and we’re immensely grateful for the unwavering support we receive year after year.”
Lending a commercial touch to the event was this year’s sponsor, the Western Telegraph. But they were more than just sponsors. Embodying the event’s lively spirit, the news team of Western Telegraph joined the car run in style, driving their classic 1979 MG Midget.
As the engines quietened and the dusk settled on Pembrokeshire, the legacy of the Car Run was evident. Despite the weather’s grim predictions, Pembrokeshire shone bright with the spirit of community, cars, and celebration.
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THE countdown is on … In less than four weeks, Milford Haven’s Torch Theatre will be a hive of 1930s glamour with Noel Coward’s Private Lives on its centre stage. Today, the Theatre announces its cast for this explosive dark comedy, with timelessly witty dissection of sex, marriage and social convention.
Former Aberystwyth student Claire Cage will play Amanda. Her television credits include Coronation Street, Sherlock and Emmerdale. She has worked with National Theatre Wales and took part in Re-Live’s play ‘Belonging’ in conjunction with the Torch Theatre so she will be a familiar face to some.
Jude Deeno (Alice In Wonderland, directed by Paul Elsam and Family Album, Stephen Joseph
Theatre, directed by Sir Alan Ayckbourn) plays Victor. Jude has previously worked with Torch Theatre’s Artistic Director Chelsey Gillard at Coventry University in Scarborough where he worked with her during his training and is “absolutely delighted” to be working with her again for the first time in his professional career.
Making her Torch debut as Sybil, actor and writer Paisley Jackson from south Wales, winner of The Laurence Olivier Bursary, has recently graduated from The Sherman Theatre Writers Group, The Royal Court Introduction to Playwrighting Group and BBC Welsh Voices. She has worked with companies such as Dirty Protest and National Theatre Wales.
The fourth, and final actor is Francois Pandolfo as Elyot. Having appeared in Eastenders, Casualty
and Doctor Who, he also has a wealth of experience on stage, appearing in Wuthering Heights (Aberystwyth Arts Centre), Double Vision (Wales Millennium Centre/ Gagglebabble) and The Magic Flute (Welsh National Opera).
Private Lives has a three-week run at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, opening on Wednesday 4th October (press night Thursday 5th) until Saturday 21st October and is proud to be part of the Coward Foundation’s COWARD125 Festival, a two-year celebration of Noël Coward’s extraordinary life in the lead-up to Coward’s 125th birthday in 2024.
To book tickets, visit the Torch Theatre Box Office https://www. torchtheatre.co.uk/ private-lives/ Or call or visit the Box Office on 01646 695267.
THEATRE lovers have a lot to celebrate over the next few weeks, with Vue Carmarthen screening some of Britain’s best stage productions of the year – including A Little Life, starring Happy Valley star James Norton.
Kickstarting the theatre season at Vue this autumn is the Royal Opera House’s Des Rheingold on 20 September. The opera explores a world of myth, dream and memory, with the figure of Erda –Mother Earth herself – at its centre.
conducts Barrie Kosky’s bold new imagining of Wagner’s Das Rheingold – which marks the start of a new Ring cycle for The Royal Opera – with an outstanding cast including Christopher Maltman (Wotan) and Christopher Purves (Alberich).
Fans of Happy Valley and Grantchester will be thrilled to hear James Norton will be hitting the big screen at Vue in what has been described as the ‘utterly compelling’ theatrical event of the year.
Visionary director Ivo van Hove (A View from the Bridge) stages
the English language premiere of A Little Life, filmed live at the Savoy Theatre, London, during its West End run. This record-breaking and ‘beautifully acted’ production of the millioncopy bestseller by Hanya Yanagihara comes to the big screen on 28 September for a limited time only.
Another Royal Opera House classic – full of sun, fun and vocal acrobatics – is Laurent Pelly’s much-loved staging of Donizetti’s intoxicating and witty comedy, L’elisir D’amore.
It tells the story of
Nemorino, who vows to win the heart of the haughty Adina, who refuses to give him the time of day. Can Doctor Dulcamara’s so-called ‘elixir of love’ work its magic? Conductor Sesto Quatrini makes his house debut, as does soprano Nadine Sierra in the role of Adina. She is joined by Liparit Avetisyan, Boris Pinkhasovich and the incomparable Bryn Terfel as the genial wheelerdealer Doctor Dulcamara.
Royal Opera House’s Des Rheingold – From 20 September
A Little Life – From 28 September
Royal Opera House’s L’elisir D’amore - From 5 October
Rachel Bland, Senior Screen Content Manager at Vue Entertainment, said: ‘Here at Vue we’re about so much more than just film. We pride ourselves on screening some of the finest productions from across the UK.
‘We’re thrilled to be giving theatre fans across the country the chance to catch brilliant performances from the Royal Opera House and Trafalgar Releasing – all from the comfort of their local Vue.’
For more information and to book tickets, visit myvue.com.
6.00 Breakfast. 9.15 Morning Live. 10.00 Fraud Squad. 10.45
Claimed and Shamed. 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 Five Bedrooms. 2.30 Money for Nothing. 3.00 Escape to the Country. (R) 3.45 Garden Rescue.
4.30 The Finish Line. 5.15 Pointless. (R)
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
Amazing Railway
Adventures with Nick Knowles
Channel 5, 9pm
The DIY SOS presenter is off on his travels again, and his latest adventure begins with a journey to three capital citiesPrague in the Czech Republic, Bratislava in Slovakia and Budapest in Hungary. Before he boards the train at Prague, he pays a visit to the city’s 600-year-old astronomical clock.
6.50 Match of the Day Wales Live. Iceland v Wales (Kick-off 7.00pm). Coverage of both teams’ first match in Group A3 of the inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations League, which takes place at Laugardalsvollur in Reykjavik.
9.15 Weatherman Walking. Derek Brockway explores the remote Berwyn mountains.
9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. Rumours swirl around Finglas that Agnes has won the Lotto jackpot, but a DNA test and the surprise return visit of Cathy’s old friend leaves Agnes questioning her past.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Kiri’s TV Flashback. (R)
11.10 Film: Magic Mike. (2012) Comedy drama, starring Channing Tatum.
6.30 Money for Nothing. (R)
7.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 8.00
Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World.
(R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00
BBC News. 12.15 Politics UK.
1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45
Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Murder, Mystery and My Family: Case Closed? (R) 3.00 Kelvin’s Big Farming Adventure. (R) 3.30
Great Canadian Railway Journeys.
(R) 4.00 Serengeti. (R) 5.00 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. Milton Jones, Ria Lina, Martin Roberts and Briony May Williams take part. (R)
6.30 Match of the Day Wales Live. Iceland v Wales (Kickoff 7.00pm).
6.55 Nigel Slater’s Dish of the Day.
7.00 The One Show.
7.30 Make It at Market. (R)
8.00 Dragons’ Den. Pitches include a solution to the plastic bag problem. (R)
9.00 Gardeners’ World. At York Gate in Leeds, the team celebrates a garden for all seasons.
10.00 Red Dwarf. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.00 Weather.
11.05 Golf: Solheim Cup Highlights.
12.05 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55
ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Argentina v Samoa (Kick-off 4.45pm).
7.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
7.15 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Mandy worries about Lydia, Chloe has her doubts, and Gail is daunted for the day ahead.
8.00 Coronation Street. Stephen fears that the game is up when police identify the dead body, Daisy confronts Ryan about his secret services, and the Baileys consider cutting their losses.
9.00 My Mum, Your Dad. Davina McCall’s dating show draws to a close, and she shocks the parents when revealing the grown-up kids’ role in their journey at the retreat.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 The NFL Show. Action from San Franciso 49ers v New York Giants.
11.40 My Mum, Your Dad. (R)
12.30 Extreme E Highlights. 1.25 All Elite Wrestling: Collision. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Dan Do. (R) 1.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Noson Lawen 2023. (R) 4.00 Awr Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R)
6.00 Bwyd Epic Chris. (R)
6.30 Garddio a Mwy. (R) Newyddion S4C.
7.00 Heno.
7.30 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
8.00 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd 2023.
8.55 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
9.00 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru 2023.
9.35 Y Gêm.
10.05 Pêl-Droed Rhyngwladol.
11.05 Mas ar y Maes. (R)
11.40 Diwedd.
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 Payback. (2020) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun.
5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian takes her vintage camper van to the Wye Valley. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Alexander Armstrong in Sri Lanka. On the last leg of his journey around the island of Sri Lanka, the presenter moves north into Tamil country, but first he has a close encounter with a cobra. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Puppy School for Guide Dogs. It is a big day for Paralympic skiing hopeful Hester and her dog, Pickle. Last in the series.
9.00 Amazing Railway Adventures with Nick Knowles. New series. Return of the travel series, with the presenter exploring Prague, Bratislava and Budapest.
10.00 Loch Ness: Hunting the Monster. The story of Loch Ness and the monster that purportedly lurks there.
12.00 Underwater Stonehenge: The Missing Link. (R) 1.00 PlayOJO
First Dates Ireland 9.00 Film: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) Fantasy action comedy, starring Dwayne Johnson. 11.20 Naked Attraction Film4
3.20 The Guns of Navarone (1961) 6.35 Mortal Engines (2018) Fantasy adventure, starring Hera Hilmar.
Snake Eyes (2021) Action adventure, starring Henry Golding.
12.55 BBC News.
BBC News. 5.20 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 5.30 Alan Carr’s Picture Slam.
6.15 Strictly Come Dancing. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are back with the first live show of 2023, opening with a stunning group performance from the professional dancers.
Kylie Live in the Park BBC2, 10.05pm
Australian star Kylie Minogue may only be 5’ 1” in her socks, but she will bestride the stage like a female Colossus as she headlines the massive music event. Expect an array of classic hits, alongside some exclusive tracks from new album Tension. Aunty Beeb then offers a chance to look back over Kylie’s long career in a freshly extended programme.
8.35 Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel. New series. The comedian hosts the Saturday-night game show, joined by Clare Balding, Darren Harriott, Jay Blades, Josie Gibson, Mollie King, Richard Madeley and Tom Allen.
9.35 Blankety Blank. New series. Bradley Walsh hosts the revival of the comedy quiz show, joined by Rylan Clark, Emma Willis, Desiree Burch, Sue Perkins, Anita Rani and Iain Stirling.
10.10 BBC News; Weather.
10.30 Match of the Day.
11.45 Film: The Lost Boys. (1987) Comedy horror, starring Kiefer Sutherland.
1.15 Weather for the Week Ahead.
1.20 BBC News.
1.05 Picasso: The Beauty and the Beast. 2.05 Sign Zone: Helping Our Teens. (R) 3.05 This Is BBC Two.
3.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R) 3.55 Unwind. 5.10 Tenable. (R)
Patriot Games (1992) Political thriller, starring Harrison Ford. SATURDAY’S
6.15 Hey Duggee. (R) 6.30
Supertato. (R) 6.35 Shaun the Sheep. (R) 6.45 Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed! (R)
6.55 Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse
Cheese. (R) 7.10 The Deep.
(R) 7.30 Pokemon: Sun and Moon – Ultra Legends. (R) 7.50 Deadly 60. (R) 8.20 Blue Peter.
(R) 8.50 Newsround. 9.00 Gardeners’ World. (R) 10.00
Britain’s Secret Seas. (R) 11.00
Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. (R) 12.00 Britain’s Top Takeaways. (R) 1.00 Film: Moulin Rouge. (1952) 2.55 Marvellous Musicals: Talking Pictures. (R)
3.25 Film: West Side Story. (1961)
5.50 Flog It! (R)
6.05 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. The chef preserves the last of his summer crops. Last in the series. (R)
6.35 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. Nina Hossain and Lucrezia Millarini visit Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. (R)
7.35 ODI Cricket Highlights. England v Ireland.
8.35 Stock Aitken Waterman at the BBC. Performances by artists whose hits were written by the songwriting trio.
10.05 Kylie Live in the Park.
11.15 Kylie at the BBC.
12.45 Golf: Solheim Cup Highlights. (R) 1.45 Film: A Million Little Pieces. (2018) 3.30 Sign Zone: The Woman in the Wall. (R)
4.25 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Love Your Garden. (R)
6.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 8.20 ITV News. 8.25 Oti Mabuse’s Breakfast Show. 9.25 James Martin’s Saturday Morning. 11.40 Ainsley’s Good Mood Food. (R) 12.10
ITV News; Weather. 12.25
Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Georgia v Portugal (Kick-off 1.00pm). 3.20 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals. (R) 3.55 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. England v Chile (Kick-off 4.45pm).
7.00 ITV News; Weather.
7.05 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. South Africa v Ireland (Kick-off 8.00pm). All the action from the Pool B encounter at Stade de France in Paris.
10.25 ITV News; Weather.
10.40 Bali 2002. Investigators try to track down the perpetrators of the Bali bombings, while injured survivors and their loved ones piece their shattered lives back together.
11.45 English Football League Highlights. Action from the latest fixtures, including Leeds United v Watford, Middlesbrough v Southampton at Riverside Stadium and Leicester City v Bristol City. (R)
1.10 The Chase. (R) 2.00 Starstruck. (R) 3.00 Bali 2002. (R)
3.55 Unwind. 5.10 Love Your Garden. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.00 Stwnsh Sadwrn: Y Doniolis. 8.10 Dreigiau: Gwarchodwyr Berc. (R) 8.30 Byd Rwtsh Dai Potsh. (R) 8.40 Ar Goll yn Oz. (R) 9.00 Cath-Od. (R) 9.15
Cic. (R) 9.35 Mabinogi-ogi. (R)
10.00 Hydref Gwyllt Iolo. (R) 11.00
Adre. (R) 11.30 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.00 Bwyd
Bach Shumana a Catrin. (R) 12.30 Am Dro! (R) 1.30 Cynefin. (R) 2.30
Dau Gi Bach. (R) 3.00 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 3.30 Yn y Fan a’r Lle. (R)
4.00 Sgwrs Dan y Lloer: Sarra Elgan. (R) 4.30 Dan Do. (R) 5.00
Pen/Campwyr. (R) 5.25 Codi Hwyl: Llydaw. (R) 5.50 Cyfres Triathlon Cymru 2023. (R)
6.15 Pêl-Droed Rhyngwladol.
7.15 Newyddion a Chwaraeon.
7.30 Am Dro! (R)
8.30 Noson Lawen.
9.30 Anfamol. (R)
10.00 Jonathan: Cwpan y Byd 2023. (R)
11.00 Elis James – ’Nabod y Teip. (R)
11.35 Diwedd.
Channel 4: 6.20 The King of Queens. (R) 7.10 The Simpsons. (R) 11.10 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix Qualifying Highlights.
12.40 Jamie’s £1 Wonders. (R)
1.40 Film: Megamind. (2010) 3.35
Four in a Bed. (R) 6.05 Channel 4 News. 6.35 The Windsors: Secrets of the Royal Tours. (R) 7.35 A Royal Guide to – Parenting. 8.35 Britain’s Best Beach Huts. (R) 9.35
Film: Kingsman: The Secret Service. (2015) 12.10 Film: Event Horizon. (1997) 1.55 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R)
6.00 Milkshake! 9.55 The Smurfs. (R) 10.10 SpongeBob
SquarePants. (R) 10.25
Entertainment News. 10.30
Friends. (R) 12.00 Columbo. (R) 1.30 Film: The Lake House. (2006) 3.35 Film: About Time. (2013)
6.00 5 News Weekend.
6.05 Scotland’s Lost Islands with Ben Fogle. Ben explores Scotland’s abandoned islands, journeying from Stroma, inhabited 1,000 years ago, to Swona, whose first inhabitants were the Vikings. (R)
7.35 Jersey and Guernsey. Documentary celebrating the beauty and heritage of the Channel islands, following the lives of residents whose families have lived there for generations. (R)
8.35 It’s A Royal Knockout: The Untold Story. The true story of how Prince Edward revived madcap game show It’s a Knockout in 1987 with a cast of royalty and celebrities.
9.35 Totally 1976: That Was The Year That Was.
11.30 Film: Dirty Dancing. (1987) Romantic drama, with Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey.
1.20 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.
3.20 Friends. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Greatest Bridges. (R) 5.00 Great Scientists. (R) 5.25 House Doctor. (R) 5.50 Entertainment News.
BBC Four
7.00 Golf: Solheim Cup Highlights
8.00 Ray Mears’ Northern Wilderness 9.00 Black Snow 10.45
Parkinson with Kenny Everett, Roy Castle and Sammy Davis Jr 11.50 Parkinson Meets Shirley MacLaine
ITV2
4.45 Film: Step Up All In (2014)
7.00 Film: Coyote Ugly (2000) Comedy drama, starring Piper Perabo. 9.00 Film: There’s Something About Mary (1998) Comedy, starring Cameron Diaz and Ben Stiller. 11.30 Family Guy
ITV3
2.50 Lewis 4.55 Midsomer
Murders 11.00 Maigret Sets a Trap
ITV4
4.00 Film: The Shootist (1976)
6.00 Film: The Magnificent Seven Ride! (1972) Western sequel, starring Lee Van Cleef. 8.00 The Chase Celebrity Special 9.00 English Football League Highlights
10.35 Film: Death Wish (1974)
E4
3.45 Film: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) 6.00 The Big Bang Theory 8.00 The Great British Bake Off 9.00 Celebrity Gogglebox 10.00 Gogglebox
Film4
2.45 Mr Popper’s Penguins (2011) 4.35 The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008) 6.50 Footloose (1984) Drama, starring Kevin Bacon. 9.00 Clear and Present Danger (1994) Action thriller, starring Harrison Ford. 11.50 Brightburn (2019) Superhero horror, starring Elizabeth Banks.
6.00 Breakfast. 7.40 Match of the Day. (R) 9.00 Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg. 10.00 Politics
Wales. 10.30 Celebration Kitchen
Live: Yom Kippur Special. 11.30
Homes Under the Hammer. (R)
12.15 Bargain Hunt. (R) 1.00
BBC News. 1.10 Weather for the Week Ahead. 1.15 Songs of Praise: The Sacred Sound of the Organ. 1.50 Points of View.
2.05 Escape to the Country. (R)
3.00 Film: Pokemon Detective Pikachu. (2019) 4.35 Weatherman
Walking. (R) 5.05 Pizza Boys: World Cup Adventure. (R) 5.35
BBC News. 5.50 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
BBC1, 7pm
Hamza Yassin goes in search of his favourite birds of prey. His journey takes him from the wilds of Scotland to the heart of Ealing Borough in Greater London, and along the way he meets a host of old friends, and fellow filmmakers. He starts his journey on the remote Ardnamurchan Peninsula on the west coast of Scotland.
6.00 Countryfile. The first of two special harvest-themed episodes. Adam Henson and Sean Fletcher join the Martin family on their arable farm in Cambridgeshire, at the busiest time of year.
7.00 Hamza: Strictly Birds of Prey. Wildlife cameraman Hamza Yassin goes in search of his favourite birds of prey.
8.00 Antiques Roadshow. Fiona Bruce presents the show from Swanage Pier on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.
9.00 The Woman in the Wall.
10.00 BBC News; Weather.
10.25 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.30 Match of the Day 2.
11.50 Film: Loving. (2016) Factbased drama, starring Ruth Negga.
1.45 Weather for the Week Ahead.
1.50 BBC News.
6.00
6.40 Countryfile. (R) 7.40
Breakfast. 9.00 Beechgrove Garden. 9.30 Landward. 10.00
Film: The Sky’s the Limit. (1943)
11.30 Mary Berry’s Quick Cooking.
(R) 12.00 Rick Stein’s Seafood
Odyssey. (R) 12.30 Film: The Shop Around the Corner. (1940) 2.05
Rainforests: Our Wild Adventures.
(R) 3.05 This Farming Life. (R)
4.05 Flog It! (R) 4.30 Celebrity Race Across the World. (R) 5.30
Wynne’s Welsh 70s. (R)
6.00 Living Next Door to Putin. Katya Adler travels from Estonia into Scandinavia. (R)
7.00 Golf: Solheim Cup Highlights. Action from the singles matches on the third and final day.
8.00 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder visit Glenapp Castle in Scotland.
9.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
9.30 Miriam Margolyes: Australia Unmasked. Miriam Margolyes explores the unique Australian ethos of ’the Fair Go”. (R)
10.30 Louis Theroux: Surviving America’s Most Hated Family. (R)
11.30 Film: Psycho. (1960) Hitchcock thriller, starring Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh.
1.15 Sign Zone: Question Time. (R)
2.15 Henpocalypse! (R) 2.45 The Following Events Are Based on a Pack of Lies. (R) 3.45 This Is BBC Two.
6.30 Bargain Hunt. (R) 7.15 Garden Rescue. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: This Farming Life. (R) 9.00
Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News.
12.15 Politics Live. 1.00
Impossible. (R) 1.45 Eggheads. (R)
2.15 Wanted Down Under. (R) 3.00
Murder, Mystery and My Family: Case Closed? (R) 3.45 Great Canadian Railway Journeys. (R)
4.15 Serengeti. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Ainsley’s Food We Love. (R)
6.25 James Martin’s French Adventure. (R) 7.25 Ainsley’s Good Mood Food. (R) 8.25 Simply Raymond Blanc. (R) 9.25 ITV News. 9.30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh. (R) 11.30
James Martin’s Saturday Morning. (R) 1.40 Love Your Garden. (R)
2.10 ITV News; Weather. 2.20 Film: Madagascar. (2005) 4.00 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Scotland v Tonga (Kick-off
4.45pm).
7.00 ITV News; Weather.
7.05 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
7.15 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. Wales v Australia (Kick-off 8.00pm). All the action from both teams’ third match in Pool C.
10.25 ITV News; Weather.
10.45 The Savoy. The hotel staff are on high alert for the imminent arrival of a mystery hotel inspector, and are anxious to find out if The Savoy will retain its Forbes five-star status. (R)
11.45 Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs. Paul meets an elderly Chihuahua with numerous ailments, and also helps an overweight beaglebasset hound cross lose some weight. (R)
12.10 English Football League Highlights. (R) 1.25 Sorry, I Didn’t Know. (R) 1.50 Starstruck. (R)
2.45 Motorsport UK. (R) 3.35 Unwind. 5.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 8.50 Penblwyddi Cyw. 9.00 Garddio a Mwy. (R) 9.30
Lowri Morgan: Her 333. (R) 10.00
Ffit Cymru. (R) 11.00 Eryri: Pobol y Parc. (R) 12.00 Dan Do. (R) 12.30
Ralïo+. (R) 1.30 Y ’Sgubor Flodau. (R) 2.30 Y Tyrchwyr gyda Iolo Williams. (R) 3.00 Cerys Matthews
a’r Goeden Faled. (R) 3.30 Arfordir Cymru: Llyn. (R) 4.00 Sain Ffagan. (R) 4.25 Cefn Gwlad. (R) 4.55 Lorient 2023. (R) 5.50 Pobol y Cwm Omnibws. (R)
7.00 Newyddion a Chwaraeon. Weekend news and sport.
7.15 Cwpan Rygbi’r Byd. Wales v Australia (Kick-off 8.00pm).
10.30 Rycia o ’Ma. (R)
11.00 Goreuon Gwesty Aduniad. A look back at those who came to find their biological fathers. (R)
11.35 Diwedd.
Channel 4: 6.20 Cheers. (R) 7.15
The King of Queens. (R) 8.05 The Simpsons. (R) 9.30 Sunday
Brunch. 12.30 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix Highlights. 3.00 The Simpsons. (R) 4.00 Devon and Cornwall: Greener Lives. (R) 5.00 A Lake District Farm Shop. (R) 6.00
Channel 4 News. 6.30 The Who Cares Wins Awards with the Sun.
8.00 Jamie Cooks the Mediterranean. 9.00 Film: Murder on the Orient Express. (2017)
11.15 Gogglebox. (R) 12.15 Walter
Presents: The Bank Hacker. 1.10
Film: Fatherhood. (2021) 3.00
Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 3.50-6.05 Come Dine with Me. (R)
6.00 Milkshake!: 9.50 SpongeBob SquarePants. (R) 10.05
Entertainment News. 10.10 NFL
End Zone. 10.40 Friends. (R) 11.40
Film: Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous. (2005) 1.55 Film: Tomb Raider. (2018) 4.15 Film: Ocean’s Eleven. (2001)
6.25 5 News Weekend.
6.30 When Holidays Go Horribly
Wrong. A newlywed is bitten by a shark in the Bahamas, an adventure-loving couple get stranded in the wilds of Asia, and a safari trip is stopped by a silverback gorilla.
8.00 Hotel Benidorm: Fun Loving Brits in the Sun. As the sun rises on the Costa Blanca, the Hotel Benidorm Plaza’s housekeeping staff spring into action.
9.00 Inheritance Wars: Who Gets the Money? The vicious legal battle that ensued after the death of Dana Coad’s husband.
10.00 The Big Sex Scam. New series. Documentary series about bigamists, on-line scam artists, catfish and swindlers.
10.55 Most Shocking TV Interviews. The top 30 worst TV interviews of all time. (R)
12.25 Criminals: Caught on Camera. (R) 12.50 Entertainment News. 1.00 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.00 Queens of Pop: Aretha to Whitney. (R) 4.40 Great Scientists. (R) 5.05 House Doctor. (R) 5.55 Entertainment News.
BBC Four
7.00 Classic Quartets at the BBC
8.00 Mozart’s Requiem 8.50 Holst and Vaughan Williams: Making Music English 9.50 Unsung
Heroines: Danielle de Niese on the Lost World of Female Composers
10.50 Marina Abramovic: The Ugly Duckling – Imagine 11.50 The Shock of the New ITV2
3.55 Film: Turbo (2013) 5.50 Film: Sing (2016) 8.00 Film: Pitch Perfect 2 (2015) 10.15 Family Guy
11.40 American Dad! ITV3
3.50 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 6.00 Lewis 8.00 Vera 10.00 Endeavour ITV4
11.00 Live British Touring Car Championship. Coverage of the penultimate meeting of the season. 6.10 The Best of the 70s 6.30 Best of Saint & Greavsie
7.30 Live LaLiga. Atletico Madrid v Real Madrid (Kick-off 8.00pm).
10.20 Film: Maximum Conviction (2012)
E4
3.20 Junior Bake Off 4.50 The Big Bang Theory 6.15 Film: Men in Black (1997) 8.00 Young Sheldon
9.00 Film: Angel Has Fallen (2019)
11.20 Naked Attraction Film4
2.45 The Perfect Catch (2005) 4.50 Johnny English Strikes Again (2018) 6.35 Mrs Doubtfire (1993) Comedy, starring Robin Williams.
9.00 Logan (2017) Fantasy adventure, starring Hugh Jackman.
11.45 East Is East (1999)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Adre. (R)
12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Ceffylau
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) 2.20
Film:
Brits in the Sun.
at
Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The presenter heads to the coast of Northern Ireland. (R)
The Inheritance Channel 5, 9pm
The four-part drama reaches a gripping conclusion, and the body count starts rising around the siblings with Susan found dead at the family home. While Sian tries to reach Nathan, who’s completely disappeared, Daniel makes a hard decision to resolve his financial troubles and get rid of Glen once and for all.
6.30
7.00 The One Show. Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas present topical stories and celebrity chat.
7.30 EastEnders.
8.00 Panorama: Downfall of the Crypto King. The breakneck rise and sensational fall of Sam Bankman-Fried, the maths genius who set out to transform the world of crypto but ended up facing a lengthy prison sentence.
9.00 Who Do You Think You Are?
Comedian, presenter and actor Matt Lucas traces his ancestry. (R)
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Film: Boiling Point. (2021) Premiere. Drama, starring Stephen Graham.
11.05 Film: Before I Go to Sleep. (2014) Thriller, starring Nicole Kidman.
12.30 Alan Carr’s Picture Slam. (R)
1.15 Weather for the Week Ahead.
1.20 BBC News.
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. New series. With Ken Bruce, Alice Roberts, Perri Shakes-Drayton and Kiell Smith-Bynoe.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. New series. Janette Manrara and Fleur East return with the Strictly fanzine.
7.00 Chris and Meg’s Wild Summer. (R)
7.30 Mastermind.
8.00 Only Connect.
8.30 University Challenge.
9.00 Laura Kuenssberg: State of Chaos. Laura examines Boris Johnson’s relationship with the truth and his downfall. Last in the series.
10.00 Sandylands.
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Film: A United Kingdom. (2016) Fact-based drama, starring David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike.
1.00 Sign Zone: Countryfile. (R)
1.55 Ambulance. (R) 2.55 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (R) 3.25 This Is BBC
Two.
7.30 Emmerdale. Amy is shocked by Chloe’s news, Mack has a question, and it remains to be seen whether Ryan can forgive Rachel.
8.00 Coronation Street. Ryan receives some unwanted exposure, Ronnie’s lack of trust offends Ed, violence erupts at Shelly’s funeral, and while grieving, Jenny’s thoughts turn to Teddy.
9.00 The Long Shadow. New series. True crime drama depicting the hunt for the Yorkshire Ripper, focusing on the lives of the victims and the officers at the heart of the police investigation.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 Sharp End. Political discussion.
11.40 Secrets of the Krays. (R)
12.30 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite. (R) 2.10 Tipping Point. (R) 3.05 Tenable. (R) 3.55 Unwind. 5.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
Channel 4 News. 8.00 Jimmy Doherty’s New Zealand Escape.
9.00 Top Guns: Inside the RAF.
10.00 Pete Doherty, Who Killed My Son? 11.05 999: On the Front Line. (R) 12.10 Sex Rated. (R) 1.05 The Duchess and Her Magical Kingdom. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. PC Rich Woodward chases two suspects on foot through a field. (R)
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 The Motorway. New series. Documentary following emergency patrol teams; 5 News Update.
9.00 The Inheritance. The body count starts to rise around the siblings as Susan is found dead at the family home, while Daniel makes a decision to resolve his financial troubles. Last in the series. 10.00 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts. Registrar doctor Chris Carson takes an emergency call. (R)
11.05 Ambulance: Code Red. (R) 12.05 Police Interceptors. (R) 1.00
NFL: Monday Night Football.
Stacey Solomon
Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon
Tidier extraordinaire Stacey
Solomon and her gang challenge the EdgarWhelan family to sort their life out in seven days. Claire is the mum of five boys, aged between 13 and 24. With four of them still at home, she’s got plenty of work on her hands. With Stacey’s help, the family home is cleared of collective clutter and laid out in a giant warehouse.
7.00
7.30 EastEnders. It all kicks off at the Vic when Gina makes a revelation.
8.00 Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon. Stacey Solomon and her team help single mother Claire and her five boys transform their family home through a life changing declutter.
9.00 Ambulance. Sam and Danny head to an accident involving a 65-year-old man, injured after collecting his shopping from the supermarket. Last in the series.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Question Time.
11.40 Newscast.
12.10 Weather for the Week Ahead.
12.15 BBC News.
6.30 The Bidding Room. (R) 7.15
The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R)
8.00 Sign Zone: Coastal Defenders. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics Live.
1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45
Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Wanted Down
Under. (R) 3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family: Case Closed? (R)
3.45 Great Canadian Railway
Journeys. (R) 4.15 Serengeti II. (R)
5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Ken Bruce, Alice Roberts, Perri ShakesDrayton and Kiell SmithBynoe.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Janette Manrara presents all the backstage gossip.
7.00 The Warship: Tour of Duty. There is an outbreak of Covid-19 aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth. (R)
8.00 Saving Lives at Sea. New series. In Calshot, the RNLI crew are called out to a young man.
9.00 Picasso: The Beauty and the Beast. As Europe descends into war, the artist creates some of his greatest work.
10.00 Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 No Activity. (R)
11.40 DNA Family Secrets. (R)
12.40 Sign Zone: Laura Kuenssberg: State of Chaos. (R)
1.40 Strictly Come Dancing. (R)
4.00 This Is BBC Two.
6.30 The Bidding Room. (R) 7.15
The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R)
8.00 Sign Zone: Gardeners’ World.
(R) 9.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics
UK. 1.00 Impossible. (R) 1.45
Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Wanted Down
Under. (R) 3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family. (R) 3.45 Great Canadian Railway Journeys. (R)
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Charles expresses his anger, while Chas finds it hard to conceal her jealousy, and Tom is left in a state of devastation.
8.30 Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs. The presenter goes rogue when he’s asked to help bottle-feed a pair of week-old kittens who were found abandoned on a building site. (R)
9.00 Grand Slammers. Part two of two. Finale of the prison challenge which culminates in a rugby match where the sporting legends play alongside the inmates they have trained.
10.30
11.00
11.15 The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor.
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) 2.20 Film: The Lakehouse Murders. (2022) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The comedian explores the historic city of Oxford and the Chilterns. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Badgers: Their Secret World. Part two of two. The cubs head out on an adventure for the first time.
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Live: Harvest on the Farm 2023. Helen Skelton and Jules Hudson explore the essential crops that give the UK a kickstart in the morning. Plus, a harvest fruit toss challenge; 5 News Update.
9.00 Body in the Bag: The Murder of Melanie Hall. The disappearance and murder of a woman last seen at a nightclub in June 1996, whose remains were discovered on a slip road off the M5.
10.30 A&E After Dark. (R)
11.25 Skin A&E. Dr Adil treats a patient with five lipomas. (R)
12.25 Police Interceptors. (R) 1.15 PlayOJO Live Casino Show. 3.15 Britain’s Loudest Snorers.
5.15 Pointless. (R)
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
7.00 The One Show. Live magazine show, hosted by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp.
Brendan O’Carroll
BBC1, 9.30pm
The current series come to an end as Dermot and Maria decide to renew their wedding vows, and Agnes is organising the ceremony. Normally, we’d expect her to throw herself into it with gusto, but sadly she’s going to have a fellow planner to work with - her archnemesis Hillary. Can they come up with something that brings the family together rather than driving it apart?
7.30 Kiri’s TV Flashback. Kiri Pritchard-McLean finds funny clips revealing stereotypes around Welsh women. (R)
8.00 Dragons’ Den. Pitches include a booking service for dog-friendly businesses. (R)
9.00 Would I Lie to You? With panellists Lady Leshurr, Philippa Perry, Alan Titchmarsh and Mike Wozniak. (R)
9.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. Dermot and Maria decide to renew their wedding vows. Last in the series.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 The Graham Norton Show.
11.30 RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. (R)
12.40 Blankety Blank. (R) 1.15 Weather for the Week Ahead. 1.20 BBC News.
4.15 Serengeti II. (R) 5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Ken Bruce, Alice Roberts, Perri ShakesDrayton and Kiell SmithBynoe.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Fleur East is back with more exclusives and backstage gossip.
7.00 Beechgrove Garden. The team looks back at how the 2023 growing season has been. Last in the series.
7.30 Gardeners’ World. Monty Don plants garlic and onions, and Joe Swift visits a gravel garden in Kent.
8.30 Golf: Ryder Cup Highlights. Eilidh Barbour presents action from day one in Rome.
10.00 Red Dwarf. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.00 Weather.
11.05 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. (R)
12.05 Film: His House. (2020)
1.30 Picasso: The Beauty and the Beast. (R) 2.30 Sign Zone: Panorama: Downfall of the Crypto King. (R) 3.30 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.00 Emmerdale. Manpreet is stressed, Marlon offers reassurance to Chas, and Tom brings some positive news.
7.30 Rugby World Cup 2023 Live. New Zealand v Italy (Kick-off 8.00pm). Mark Pougatch presents coverage of both teams’ third and penultimate match in Pool A, held at OL Stadium in Lyon.
10.25 ITV News; Weather.
10.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
11.10 The NFL Show. Craig Doyle presents a look ahead to the weekend’s clash between Jacksonville Jaguars and Atlanta Falcons at Wembley Stadium, plus highlights of Green Bay Packers v Detroit Lions.
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Richard Holt: Yr Academi Felys. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Dan Do. (R) 1.30 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 2.05 Prynhawn Da.
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) 2.20
Film: My Deadly Ex. (2020) 4.00
Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun.
5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The presenter heads to the lush county of Cumbria, meets a storyteller laureate, and takes to the largest lake in England. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Shop Smart, Save Money. New series. The latest technological devices.
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Live: Harvest on the Farm 2023. Helen Skelton and Jules Hudson present a harvest festival extravaganza. Last in the series.
2.10 Countdown. 3.00 A Place in the Sun. (R) 5.00 A New Life in the Sun. (R) 6.00 Four in a Bed. 6.30 The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 PopMaster TV: Grand Final. (R) 9.00 Gogglebox. 10.00 Open House: The Great Sex Experiment. 11.00 Joe Lycett: I’m About to Lose Control and I Think Joe Lycett. (R)
12.05 Film: Happy Death Day 2U. (2019) 1.45 Ramsay’s 24 Hours to Hell and Back. (R) 2.30 Come Dine with Me. (R) 4.45 Tool Club. (R) 5.35 Kirstie’s House of Craft. (R)
9.00 Amazing Railway Adventures with Nick Knowles. The presenter travels from Mount Vesuvius to Mount Etna on a journey from Naples to Sicily, where a gyrocopter trip goes terribly wrong.
10.00 Blood Money: The Curse of Brink’s-Mat Robbery. (R)
11.30 Film: Ocean’s Eleven. (2001) Crime comedy, starring George Clooney.
1.35 PlayOJO Live Casino Show.
3.35 Friends. (R) 4.25 Never Teach
Your Wife to Drive. (R) 5.20
Wildlife SOS. (R) 5.50
Entertainment News.
Top of the Pops 9.00 Phil Collins at the BBC 10.00 The Old Grey Whistle Test: Genesis 10.40 TOTP2: Genesis 11.25 Mark Lawson Talks to Phil Collins ITV2 3.05 One Tree Hill 4.05 Dawson’s Creek 5.00 Dinner Date 6.00 Celebrity Catchphrase 7.00 Ninja Warrior UK: Race for Glory 8.00 Superstore 9.00 Film: There’s Something About Mary (1998) 11.30 Family Guy ITV3 4.00 Classic Emmerdale 5.00 Classic Coronation Street 6.00 Heartbeat 8.00 Doc Martin 10.05 Endeavour ITV4 12.45 Snooker: British Open 2023. Coverage of the afternoon session on day five. 4.30 Hot Shots 4.40 Minder 5.40 The Motorbike Show 6.45 Snooker: British Open 2023. Coverage of the evening session on day five. 10.00 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite E4 4.00 Married at First Sight UK 5.10 The Big Bang Theory 7.00 Hollyoaks 7.35 Young Sheldon 8.00 First Dates Ireland 9.00 Film: Angel Has Fallen (2019) Action thriller sequel, starring Gerard Butler. 11.20 Naked Attraction Film4 3.05 Hangman’s Knot (1952) 4.45 Shenandoah (1965) 6.55 Footloose (1984) 9.00 Let Him Go (2020) 11.15 Raging Bull (1980) Listings supplied by PA Media
BBC Four
Escape to the Country. 3.45 The Bidding Room. 4.30 The Vintage French Farmhouse. 5.15 Pointless.
(R)
Paul Hollywood
The Great British Bake Off Channel 4, 8pm
Bake Off is back and there’s been a tweak to the recipe - Matt Lucas has stepped down as copresenter and Alison Hammond has been recruited as a replacement. Despite the new face joining fellow host Noel Fielding and judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, we’re promised that this will be a back-to-basics series.
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
7.00 Match of the Day Wales Live. Wales v Denmark (Kick-off 7.15pm). All the action from both teams’ second match in Group A3 of the UEFA Women’s Nations League, held at Cardiff City Stadium.
9.30 Would I Lie to You?
Panellists Pam Ayres, Sarah Kendall, Richard Osman and Kiell Smith-Bynoe bolster the deceitful talents of team captains Lee Mack and David Mitchell. (R)
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 The Following Events Are Based on a Pack of Lies. Alice helps Cheryl see the truth about Rob and the pair use the Annual Myths, Legends & Fantasy Literary Ball to give him a taste of his own medicine. (R)
11.40 Juice. (R)
12.05 Juice. (R) 12.30 Boot
Dreams: Now or Never. (R) 1.30
BBC News.
6.30 The Bidding Room. (R)
7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: Expert Witness. (R)
8.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.
10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics
Live. 1.00 The Super League Show. (R) 1.45 Impossible. (R)
2.30 Politics Live Conference 2023.
3.30 First Minister’s Questions.
4.30 Great Canadian Railway Journeys. (R) 5.00 Serengeti II. (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Ken Bruce, Alice Roberts, Perri ShakesDrayton and Kiell SmithBynoe.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two. Fleur East is back – and so is Choreography Corner.
7.00 The One Show. With Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas.
7.30 EastEnders. (R)
8.00 Fake or Fortune? Fiona Bruce and Philip Mould investigate a potential Elisabeth Frink sculpture. (R)
9.00 Rise of the Nazis: The Manhunt. The hunt for war criminals Adolf Eichmann and Klaus Barbie.
10.00 Mock the Week. (R)
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 ODI Cricket Highlights.
12.15 Sign Zone: Money for Nothing. (R) 1.00 Garden Rescue.
(R)
1.45 Claimed and Shamed. (R)
2.30 The Hidden World of Hospitality with Tom Kerridge. (R)
3.30 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Breakfast. 9.15 Morning
Live. 10.00 Fraud Squad. 10.45
Claimed and Shamed. 11.15
Homes Under the Hammer. (R)
12.15 Bargain Hunt. (R) 1.00 BBC News at One; Weather. 1.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather. 1.45
Doctors. 2.15 Money for Nothing.
3.00 Escape to the Country. (R)
3.45 The Bidding Room. 4.30 The Vintage French Farmhouse. 5.15 Pointless. (R)
6.00 BBC News at Six; Weather.
6.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
6.55 Party Political Broadcast. By the Welsh Liberal Democrats. (R)
7.00 The One Show. With Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas.
Grand Slammers
ITV, 9pm
Twenty years ago, Martin Johnson, Jonny Wilkinson, Lawrence Dallaglio, Phil Vickery, Jason Robinson, Will Greenwood, Ben Cohen, Mike Tindall and Matt Dawson were among the squad who won the 2003 Rugby World Cup final. They are reunited for this two-part documentary, which follows them as they build and train a team of inmates at HMP The Mount prison.
7.30 EastEnders. The police come asking questions about Nugget’s disappearance.
8.00 The Repair Shop. The experts restore a velvet poster of a black panther, a metal garden ornament gifted by a passed grandchild, a grandfather’s camera and a pair of sandals from the 1800s.
9.00 Celebrity Race Across the World. The pairs head to the second checkpoint on the island of Corsica.
10.00 BBC News at Ten.
10.30 BBC Wales Today; Weather.
10.40 Rookie Nurses. (R)
11.10 Ambulance. The ambulance service faces the threat of a nerve agent. (R)
12.10 Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel. (R) 1.10 BBC News.
6.00 Good Morning Britain. 9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning.
12.30 Loose Women. 1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. 3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point. 5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Mack reassures Moira, but Chloe remains upset.
8.00 Coronation Street. The Rovers’ staff receive their marching orders, Cassie over-shares with a garage customer, Bernie tips off Aadi about a flat for rent, and Daniel uncovers Ryan’s steroid use.
9.00 The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor. New series. The events shaping the fortunes of the royal family during Elizabeth II’s reign.
10.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
10.30 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
10.45 Face to Face. Adrian Masters is joined in conversation by Livvy Breen.
11.15 On Assignment.
11.45 Wales on TV. (R)
12.10 Made in Britain. (R) 1.00
The Chase. (R) 1.55 Tipping Point. (R) 2.45 Loose Women. (R)
3.30 Tenable. (R) 4.20 Unwind.
5.10 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Bwyd Bach Shumana a Catrin. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Bwyd Epic Chris. (R) 1.30
6.30 The Bidding Room. (R)
7.15 The Vintage French Farmhouse. (R) 8.00 Sign
Zone: Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Marcus Wareing’s Tales from a Kitchen Garden. (R) 9.00 Nicky Campbell.
10.00 BBC News. 12.15 Politics
Live. 1.00 Impossible. (R)
1.45 Eggheads. (R) 2.15 Wanted Down Under. (R)
3.00 Murder, Mystery and My Family: Case Closed? (R)
3.45 Great Canadian Railway Journeys. (R) 4.15 Serengeti II. (R)
5.15 Flog It! (R)
6.00 Richard Osman’s House of Games. With Ken Bruce, Alice Roberts, Perri ShakesDrayton and Kiell SmithBynoe.
6.30 Strictly: It Takes Two.
7.00 This Farming Life. A deep freeze descends on John’s Ayrshire farm.
8.00 Nadiya’s Simple Spices.
8.30 Nigella: At My Table. (R)
9.00 DNA Family Secrets. New series. Stacey Dooley helps people unlock mysteries hidden in their DNA.
10.00 Moulin Rouge: Yes We CanCan!
10.30 Newsnight.
11.10 Weather.
11.15 Rise of the Nazis: The Manhunt. (R)
12.15 Sign Zone: Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. (R) 1.15
Living Next Door to Putin. (R) 2.15 Helping Our Teens. (R) 3.15 This Is BBC Two.
6.00 Good Morning Britain.
9.00 Lorraine. 10.00 This Morning. 12.30 Loose Women.
1.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather. 1.55 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather. 2.00 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure.
3.00 Tenable. 4.00 Tipping Point.
5.00 The Chase.
6.00 ITV News Wales at Six; Weather.
6.25 Party Political Broadcast. By the Welsh Liberal Democrats.
6.30 ITV Evening News; Weather.
7.30 Emmerdale. Manpreet provides encouragement to Claudette, while Chloe tells Mack the truth, and Gail expresses concern for Ryan.
8.00 Coronation Street. It is the end of an era for the Rovers Return Inn, Paul and Billy finalise their wedding arrangements, and Daniel asks a favour of Ryan.
9.00 Grand Slammers. Part one of two. England Rugby World Cup winners, including Captain Martin Johnson, attempt to train a team of inmates at HMP The Mount prison.
10.30 ITV News at Ten; Weather.
11.00 ITV News Cymru Wales; Weather.
11.15 Peston.
12.05 EFL Carabao Cup Highlights.
1.00 The Chase. (R) 1.50 Tipping Point. (R) 2.40 Tenable. (R) 3.35 Unwind. 5.05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. (R)
6.00 Cyw. (R) 11.00 Dysgu Gyda Cyw. (R) 12.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 12.05 Cymry ar Gynfas. (R) 12.30 Heno. (R) 1.00 Dau Gi Bach. (R) 1.30 Garddio a Mwy. (R)
2.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd.
2.05 Prynhawn Da. 3.00 Newyddion S4C a’r Tywydd. 3.05 Prosiect Pum Mil. (R) 4.00 Awr
Fawr. (R) 5.00 Stwnsh. (R)
6.00 Pêl-Droed
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) 2.20
Film: Big Lies in a Small Town. (2022) 4.00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun. 5.00 5 News at 5.
6.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. The presenter and her campervan head back to Yorkshire. (R)
6.55 5 News Update.
7.00 Badgers: Their Secret World. Part one of two. Steve Backshall reveals the secret lives of badgers in the UK.
7.55 5 News Update.
8.00 Live: Harvest on the Farm 2023. TV presenter George Lamb shares his new-found passion for farming; 5 News Update.
9.00 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts. Ralph, an 87-year-old who is struggling to breathe, is rushed into hospital, and staff need to run a series of urgent blood tests to determine the cause of his critical condition.
10.00 999: Critical Condition. (R)
The Simpsons. (R) 7.00 Channel 4 News. 8.00 Geordie Hospital. 9.00 Grand Designs. 10.00 First Dates. (R) 11.05 The Great British Bake Off. (R) 12.35 Taskmaster. (R) 1.30 24 Hours in A&E. (R) 2.25 Jimmy Doherty’s New Zealand Escape. (R) 3.20 Selling Super Houses. (R) 4.15 Couples Come Dine with Me. (R)
11.05 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. (R)
WELL, well, well, my dear comrades and compatriots, it seems we’ve got ourselves a bit of a conundrum in the world of beleaguered zombie survival MMOs.
Yes, indeed, “The Day Before,” a game that once had folks wishlisting it on Steam like it was the last bottle of kombucha at a wellness retreat, has found itself entangled in yet another trademark dispute. A right old brouhaha, it is.
You see, this game was all set to take the gaming world by storm until those cheeky developers over at Fntastic decided to do a little dance, push back their grand release date, and unceremoniously yank it off the Steam platform. Why, you ask? Well, it turns out they forgot to trademark their own bloomin’ title! Can you believe it? It’s like forgetting to put on trousers before going out in public.
Now, here’s the juicy bit. Word on the virtual street is that they might just be thinking of rebranding this whole shebang as “Daybreak.” But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; it’s all speculative at this point, like trying to predict which way a mystic river will flow.
But, fret not, my fellow gaming enthusiasts! “The Day Before” still holds a spot in the grand gaming tapestry of 2023, as confirmed in a recent trailer dropped back in June. Unfortunately, I missed that particular spectacle at the
Summer Game Fest this year, and, I must confess, I’m itching to know how this project is unfolding. It’s like waiting for a revolution, you know?
Now, here’s the lowdown on “The Day Before” as it stands at this very moment, from its tumultuous development journey to the latest date stamped by the publisher: November 10, 2023. Can you believe it was originally supposed to grace our screens on March 1, 2023? But alas, delays happen in the world of PC gaming, and this one pushed our anticipation back by a whole ten months.
This isn’t the first time they’ve played the delay card, mind you.
Fntastic initially aimed for a June 2022 release, but they decided to shift gears and embrace the Unreal Engine 5, a decision that, according to their poetic words to IGN, will make the gameplay “even more fantastic.” Ah, yes, Unreal Engine 5, the savior of realism in the gaming world, promising us environments so lifelike, we’ll feel like we’re scavenging through our neighbor’s backyard.
Now, as for gameplay, trailers gave us mere glimpses, but our first real taste came courtesy of an IGN video back in 2021. It showcased two brave souls rummaging around a gas station, taking down infected nasties with their trusty firearms. It gave us a whiff of the looting mechanics, which bore a
striking resemblance to State of Decay, if you ask me. But alas, the real action remained elusive, especially after the Unreal Engine 5 makeover.
However, just when we thought they’d left us high and dry, Fntastic dropped a 10-minute gameplay bonanza on February 2. Two intrepid characters navigated through abandoned streets, looted homes, and had a jolly good time with the local zombie populace. But, my dear audience, the reaction has been somewhat akin to opening a disappointing Christmas present.
Yet, fear not, for there are more secrets to unearth in this postapocalyptic playground. Fntastic spilled the beans in an interview with Well Played, hinting at jobs, houses, and saunas amidst the chaos. And don’t you forget those “various types of infected” to spice up the proceedings. But, here’s the real kicker, my friends, this game isn’t just about bashing zombies. Oh no! It’s about the human experience, the interactions, the stories we’ll weave as we tread this perilous path through the end of days.
So, keep your eyes peeled, your keyboards at the ready, and your wits about you, because “The Day Before” may just be the gaming odyssey we’ve been waiting for. Or, you know, it might turn into a gaming fiasco for the ages. Only time will tell, my friends, only time will tell.
BYDD ail gyfres y ddrama Dal y Mellt i’w weld ar S4C yn 2024.
Vox Pictures sydd yn cynhyrchu’r ddrama ac mae’r tîm wrthi yn ffilmio’r gyfres ar hyn o bryd ym Mangor, Caerdydd a Llundain.
Mae’r gyfres wedi ei seilio ar nofel newydd
Iwan ‘Iwcs’ Roberts ‘Dal Arni’ sydd yn ddilyniant i’w nofel ‘Dal y Mellt’.
Cafodd cyfres gyntaf Dal y Mellt ei werthu i Netflix dan yr enw Rough Cut, y ddrama iaith Gymraeg gyntaf i gael ei dangos ar y gwasanaeth ffrydio.
Mae Gwion Morris Jones yn dychwelyd fel y prif gymeriad, Carbo, tra bod Mici, Gronw, Antonia, Dafydd Aldo, Meri Jên,
Cidw, Jiffy a Julia yn ail ymuno ar y siwrnai gyffrous.
Bydd nifer o gymeriadau newydd yn ymddangos y tro yma, gyda Matthew Gravelle yn portreadu Blew. Dywedodd Gwenllian Gravelle, Pennaeth
Sgriptio S4C: “Ar ôl llwyddiant y gyfres gyntaf ar S4C a Netfix dwi’n hynod o falch i gyhoeddi bydd y criw hoffus yn ôl am antur gyffrous arall flwyddyn nesaf.
“Mae’r stori yn parhau ac mae yna gymeriadau newydd a her newydd yn wynebu’r gang.
“Mae hwn yn gynhyrchiad uchelgeisiol
fydd â chynulleidfa yma yng Nghymru ond ein bwriad yw sicrhau
fod cynulleidfaoedd rhyngwladol yn gweld y gyfres hefyd.”
Dywedodd Llŷr Morus, Pennaeth Cynhyrchu Vox Pictures: “Mae Vox Pictures yn falch iawn o fod mewn cynhyrchiad eto gyda S4C ar yr ail gyfres o Dal y Mellt.
“Mae’n wych gallu adeiladu ar lwyddiant y gyfres gyntaf a dod a’r gang o gymeriadau lliwgar nôl at ei gilydd, a gweld y da a’r drwg yn croesi llwybrau.
“Mae heist arall llawn cyffro ar y gweill wrth i’n criw hoffus fynd ar ôl cyfoeth a chariad.”
Bydd y nofel ‘Dal Arni’ gan Iwan ‘Iwcs’ Roberts yn cael ei gyhoeddi gan y Lolfa ddiwedd mis Hydref.
MAE prosiect
Awdurdod Parc
Cenedlaethol
Arfordir Penfro sy’n ceisio gwaredu a rheoli lledaeniad rhywogaethau estron goresgynnol ar dir o amgylch afonydd wedi cael cyllid yn ddiweddar i ymestyn ei waith i chwe lleoliad arall.
Mae’r prosiect Pwyth mewn Pryd wedi bod yn targedu rhywogaethau estron goresgynnol fel Jac y Neidiwr chwarennog yn nalgylch
Cwm Gwaun ers 2015, ac ers hynny mae wedi ehangu i gynnwys dalgylchoedd Clydach a Phorthgain.
Ar ôl dangos bod modd rheoli Jac y
Neidiwr ar raddfa fawr yn y lleoliadau hyn, mae’r prosiect wedi cael dros
£170,000 gan Gronfa
Rhwydweithiau Natur
Cronfa Dreftadaeth y
Loteri Genedlaethol, gan ymestyn y prosiect tan 2025.
Dywedodd Matthew Tebbutt, Cydlynydd y Prosiect a fydd yn arwain ac yn cydlynu gwirfoddolwyr, grwpiau cymunedol a chontractwyr, staff a thirfeddianwyr: “Rydyn ni’n falch iawn o fod wedi sicrhau’r cyllid hwn i ymestyn effaith y prosiect i fwy o ardaloedd yn Sir Benfro.
“Bydd y prosiect yn ceisio ymestyn a chyfnerthu rheolaeth Jac y Neidiwr yn yr ardaloedd a ddewiswyd, yn ogystal â rheoli Clymog Japan lle bo hynny’n ymarferol.
Yn ogystal â darparu’r glasbrint ar gyfer camau nesaf y prosiect, mae’r gwaith a gwblhawyd fel rhan o’r prosiect ers 2015 wedi galluogi Awdurdod y Parc Cenedlaethol i greu pecyn cymorth i rannu’r dull seiliedig ar ddalgylch ar gyfer rheoli Jac y Neidiwr a’r gwersi a ddysgwyd ar hyd y ffordd.
Y chwe ardal warchodedig a fydd yn rhan o gam newydd y prosiect yw: SoDdGA Cors Castell Martin (dalgylch Cors Castell Martin), SoDdGA Dyfrffordd Aberdaugleddau
(Coedwig Holyland a Phwll Melin Penfro), SoDdGA Aberarth Carreg Wylan (Ceibiwr, Trewyddel), Ardal Cadwraeth Arbennig (ACA) y Preseli ac ACA Afonydd Cleddau (Afon Wern), ACA y Preseli
ac ACA Coetiroedd
Gogledd Sir Benfro (Afon Nyfer - blaenddwr Crymych a Blaenffos, ac is-ddalgylch Brynberian) ac ACA Tir Comin Gogledd Orllewin Sir Benfro ac ACA Tyddewi (Afon Alun Tyddewi).
FOLLOWING
significant NFU Cymru lobbing, Welsh Government has announced the introduction of a general licence to cover the movement of TB restricted cattle. The announcement, which is echoed by Defra, means that from 2nd October farmers will be able to apply to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) for a general licence to cover the movement of TB restricted cattle either directly or via an approved dedicated sale for TB-restricted cattle (known an as ‘orange market’) in England or Wales to:
• An Approved Finishing Unit (AFU)
• Approved Finishing Unit Enhanced with Grazing (England only)
• A slaughterhouse
NFU Cymru TB Focus Group Chairman Roger Lewis said:
“The introduction of a general licence for movement of TB
restricted cattle into an AFU or slaughterhouse is extremely welcome news and will make a real difference to farmers across Wales who are operating their businesses under TB restrictions. The new general licence is absolutely win-win; it will reduce the red tape associated with moving animals, especially
calves and youngstock, off the farm during a TB breakdown without compromising disease control.”
“The NFU Cymru TB Focus Group recommended the introduction of a general licence as a way of combatting the delays many farmers faced when applying for individual licences for
each animal, which often led to slots for getting animals into biosecure outlets, such as AFUs, were missed. We’ve been working across the cattle industry, as part of the GB Calf Strategy, to secure this change and the NFU Cymru TB Focus Group will continue to champion areas where improvements to the
operation of TB policy can be made.”
The new general licence, known as licence TB16e, will replace the need for individual movement licences and will be valid for the time between short-interval tests. A new licence will need to be applied for from APHA after each shortinterval test.
THIS week, Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet approved plans to diversify its rural estate.
Two initiatives got the go-ahead. The first will create a new Food Systems Development Project at a vacant Council-owned farm in Llanarthne, and the second will plant woodland on Council land.
The Council identified Bremenda Isaf Farm, Llanarthne, as a suitable Food Systems Development Project location. This will be a multi-partnership application led by Carmarthenshire County Council.
The project aims to increase local food production, support rural initiatives and enable diversification on the Council’s farm estate to ensure future sustainability.
It will put infrastructure, equipment and skilled staff in place to develop a model market for fieldscale sustainable fruit and vegetable production sites at the 100-acre farm.
The Food Systems Development Project’s
objectives include:
• Delivering a low-carbon infrastructure site;
• Engaging with stakeholders - from schools to green & social prescribers, communities and small-scale growers to public and private sector customers;
• Growing new local markets for local and sustainable produce, developing supply aggregation models and delivering
accredited training pathways.
The Cabinet also approved plans to establish new woodland on Council-owned land. The Cabinet hopes the scheme will deliver outcomes against the Climate Emergency and mitigate the loss of woodland in Carmarthenshire due to ash dieback.
Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr. Alun Lenny said: “Carmarthenshire County Council has long acknowledged the climate emergency
facing the county, Wales and the world. It is taking action across all aspects of its work to ensure that the future we provide for our children and our children’s children is healthy and sustainable.
“I am particularly looking forward to seeing the development of the Bremenda Isaf Farm and the impact that growing food in a sustainable manner will have on carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement, the local economy, reducing food miles and social wellbeing.”
THE Pembrokeshire branch of the Farmers’ Union of Wales is hosting an information evening for members on Wednesday 27 September at Clarbeston Road memorial hall, Clarbeston Road.
The event starts at 7.30pm and will discuss the 4 Rivers For Life Project, the new Farming Connect project as well as Habitat Wales scheme.
The 4 Rivers For Life Project aims to improve the condition of 4 major rivers in Wales including the Eastern and Western Cleddau. Gareth Waters, will be on hand to explain more about how farmers can work with them on the project and what funding is available to
establish wide fenced riparian corridors on farm, possibly help farmers with clean and dirty water separation on yard, soil testing, and possible tree planting.
Following the launch of their new programme earlier this year, Farming Connect Pembrokeshire based Development Officers will join the evening to provide an update on what business support services are now available.
With the imminent launch of the Habitat Wales Scheme, Welsh Governments’ new agrienvironment scheme, which is available to all farmers across Wales to apply for, the evening will provide members with an overview of what is involved.
look forward to
Earlier this month we joined a variety of farmers, veterinary professionals and academics at a lecture by staunch anti-cull campaigner Sir Brian May on alternative bovine TB control methods.
The lecture, which was hosted by the Ser Cymru Centre of Excellence for Bovine Tuberculosis at Aberystwyth University, outlined a long-term bovine TB project undertaken on a farm sponsored by Brian May in South Devon.
The farm, known as Gatcombe Farm, has achieved notoriety as a premise at the centre of new and novel testing regimes for bovine TB control. Gatcombe has employed both PCR and Actiphage testing over and above statutory disease control tests in a bid to detect and eradicate the disease from the farm.
As part of this enhanced management, the role of slurry in spreading TB was evaluated and the project concluded that slurry management and biosecurity were effectively the only factors of interest in bovine TB transmission and control. The role of TB infected badger sets was investigated, however the conclusion was that neither badger culling nor badger vaccination were relevant in the fight against bovine TB.
Post lecture, we remain unconvinced by Sir Brian May’s optimism that this project represents the solution to TB eradication in Wales.
‘Brian’s Soapbox Blog’ reports that this project represents the ‘potential to end this misery - relatively
quickly’. However we believe that bovine TB is a complex disease and that trying to adopt a ‘one-size-fitsall’ approach is wholly unworkable.
We are therefore extremely alarmed that the experiences of just one farm are being heralded as the mechanism by which to eradicate bovine TB on a pan-Wales basis. Moreover the fact that this farm is yet again under bovine TB restrictions serves to further demonstrate the long-term effort needed to identify and mitigate all sources of infection.
The event aimed to promote respectful dialogue about bovine TB, with discussions centred around finding new approaches and techniques to detect and control this disease on farm. Sadly, although not unexpectedly, the opportunity to discuss new ways of identifying bovine TB transmission routes was largely overshadowed by anti-cull rhetoric and a failure to understand the complex role played by badgers in transmitting this disease on some farms.
Genuine partnership and collaboration requires all sources of infection to be objectively investigated. Policies must be backed by strong scientific evidence as this is crucial in underpinning progressive and successful disease control strategies.
Sadly, Sir Brian May’s attempts to exonerate the badger vector he so firmly believes have no role in TB transmission overshadowed the Gatcombe Project and closed down the dialogue that he was so keen to participate in.
hope that you will be able to attend and
seeing you, but in the meantime if you have any queries regarding the arrangements please do not hesitate to contact us.’
2-3mm in size and can be carried into any property on pets, people or soft furnishing.
If you spot them early enough, a thorough vacuum clean followed by an insecticide treatment can help prevent a flea infestation taking hold.
Sofa cushions, blankets, bedding, clothing, pet bedding and other soft furnishings that may have been affected should be washed at the highest temperature possible, preferably at 60° or higher.
NATIONAL trade body British Pest Control Association (BPCA) says its members are reporting concerns that fleas may be becoming more resistant to shopbought treatments.
Resistance to pest control products means pests, such as fleas, have developed defences against
chemical controls, causing the product to become less effective.
This can result in an escalating infestation which may require a pest professional such as a BPCA member who will have the knowledge and experience to tackle the problem, along with access to products not available to the general public.
John Horsley, Technical Officer at BPCA, said: “Fleas are quite active in the UK at the moment, and we are hearing reports from our members of more resistance to shopbought treatments.
“Fleas are not associated with dirty environments, but once they arrive in your home, the population can escalate quickly, so swift action is essential.”
Fleas are only
If there are large numbers of fleas or shop-bought treatments have failed, BPCA recommends calling a pest professional for help.
John added: “Amateur-use insecticides must be used exactly in accordance with the instructions on the label and all necessary precautions need to be taken to avoid causing any unintended damage or injury.
“It’s also essential to be sure that fleas are actually present before
using an insecticide inside a home – we strongly advise against using pest control products as a preemptive measure.
“BPCA members are trained in flea control and have access to a range of professionaluse insecticides and tools which are not available to the public.”
There are four main signs that indicate fleas have moved in:
• A pet scratching, licking or biting itself repeatedly
• Fleas or flea droppings may be visible in the coat of a pet
• Fleas jumping about on soft furnishings
• Bites – particularly around the ankles
For information and advice visit bpca.org.uk/ fleas
BPCA members are trained, qualified and regularly assessed to the British Standard in Pest Management BS EN 16636.
To find a professional pest controller visitbpca. org.uk/find
THE WELSH
Secretary says that driving a lorry for the family firm helped put him on the road to success as he called for more on-the-job training for school leavers.
David TC Davies MP told business leaders in North Wales that past governments got it “completely wrong” when they turned their backs on industrial and business apprenticeships to focus on encouraging the majority of young people to enrol on university degree courses.
Speaking at a meeting of the Wrexham Business Professionals group, he said apprenticeships offered an unparalleled opportunity for them to learn from those who are already running businesses.
According to Mr Davies, he opted to work for his family in their shipping company Burrow Heath Ltd in Newport instead of going to university.
He learned on the job in various departments, including at one point driving a lorry for two years, before he eventually entered politics.
Mr Davies also served in the Territorial Army and as a Special Constable before he became an MP, first being elected to the Monmouth seat in 2005.
The Wrexham Business Professionals group is made up of successful companies and skilled professionals working together to promote regional prosperity and shine a light on the enterprise and expertise that exists in the region.
Among those attending the breakfast meeting at Maesgwyn Hall, Wrexham, was Huw Jones, managing director of Ruthin-based civil engineering firm Jones Bros whose ongoing apprenticeship schemes have won plaudits nationwide.
Mr Jones was dumbfounded that the Welsh Government
was not fully behind all hands-on skills based apprenticeships.
He said: “Our apprenticeship schemes are highly valued. We’ve been at the vanguard of quality training for decades. As a result, we benefit from a highly trained, committed workforce, some of whom have been with the company for many years.
“We have an academic apprenticeship scheme in partnership with Coleg Cambria and, in addition we have hands-on crafts based apprenticeships run out of our own training facility in Denbigh.”
He said the purposebuilt training centre had enabled the firm to create tailored courses to its own specification, giving apprentices a wide variety of equipment to train on.
Over recent years their apprenticeship schemes had produced nearly 50 per cent of the company’s current workforce, with many senior managers having started out as apprentices or trainees.
But he said the Welsh Government gave short shrift to the more vocational programmes like those in Denbigh even though they were just as valuable to Jones Bros as degree or diploma courses.
Mr Jones said:
“Last year First Minister Mark Drakeford said the government would continue to fund Level 3 NVQ courses but it was pulling funding support from Level 2 courses. But both are of value.
“I just cannot understand the thinking behind it. Level 2 is an important starting point for many of our trainees as they enter the world of work. Even though these courses may not be as academic, the trainees still have the potential to earn and input significantly to our local economy.”
The Welsh Secretary agreed that apprenticeships of all kinds should be highly valued and it was wrong to write off those who signed up for vocational schemes as simply being unacademic.
He said: “There is no one-size-fits-all path in education. I’m not against anyone going to university if it suits their career path but it is not the right thing for every school leaver.
“I myself didn’t go to university but it did not hold me back. I like many others still found success in other ways.”
He said: “I believe past governments got it completely wrong when they launched a mass campaign encouraging all school leavers to aim first
and foremost for university. And those who still insist on this approach today are blind to the needs of our employers and society in general.
“No one should be considered a failure just because they may not have a degree or even the inclination to attend university.
“Further education and learning has many different routes which should all be nurtured. We should not compare vocational skills unfavourably against academia.
“Apprenticeships are as valuable a route to skills learning as any other form of study and they can be the starting point to an exciting career.
“Some of our greatest business leaders did not attend university but learned the ropes on the job, became innovators and inventors, and contributed enormously to our country’s economic growth.”
His sentiments were endorsed by Robin Jones, managing director of Wrexham family firm Jones Village Bakery which is on course to achieve record sales of £100 million this year from its operations at six bakeries in Minera and on Wrexham Industrial Estate.
Mr Jones also did
not opt for university but attended night school and learned his family’s business from the bottom up.
He said: “We pride ourselves on employing local people with most of our managers having been trained in-house.
“Whether they are 18 or 48 we will train every new recruit in-house in the skills we need to ensure all our bakery products maintain the highest standards.”
The meeting was chaired by Ian Edwards, a leading member of Wrexham Business Professionals, who said: “We’re very grateful to the Secretary of State for Wales and Robin Jones for their illuminating presentations and their valuable insights.
“Their contributions provided much food for thought and the main takeaway is that the world of education needs to be more aligned with the needs of business and industry.”
It was a sentiment endorsed by fellow member Louise Harper added: “For many, gaining a university degree will continue to be the right path but for others vocational training and apprenticeships will provide a better route for everybody concerned.”
TIsuzu UK is excited to announce its participation in the upcoming Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Regional Test Days. The distributor of leading pick-ups will showcase two of its latest vehicles from the most recent lineup and engage with national, regional and automotive journalists at these highly anticipated events.
oMSMMT Regional Test Days are renowned platforms that bring together vehicle manufacturers and importers with journalists from all quarters to
test-drive vehicles from many leading brands.
They also provide a great opportunity for networking, knowledge exchange, and a closer look at the latest innovations in the automotive sector.
Isuzu UK, known for its durable and dependable pick-ups, will take this opportunity to present its New-Look Isuzu D-Max pick-up range, which has earned a strong reputation for its off-road capabilities and reliability. Attendees will have the chance to explore these vehicles up close, specifically the Isuzu D-Max Utility from the Business range and
the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross from the Adventure range and see first-hand Isuzu’s commitment to delivering quality and performance to its customers.
First in the vehicle spotlight is the NewLook Isuzu D-Max Utility, the embodiment of functionality and practicality. Adorned with an Onyx Black finish, the double cab automatic workhorse will come to the SMMT events fully equipped with fitting accessories, including tailgate assist, rubber floor trays, a tow bar, 13-pin electrics, and an over-rail load-bed liner.
On the other end
of the spectrum, the New-Look Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is characterised by rugged and refined features, blending workhorse heritage with the comfort and luxury of an SUV. Elegantly coated in Biarritz Blue, this V-Cross boasts an automatic transmission and is complemented by a host of additional accessories. These include a leisure canopy, sleek black steel side bars and steps, a tow bar, 13-pin electrics, and a bedrug, enhancing both its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
“We are thrilled to participate in the SMMT Regional Test Days,”
said Filip Czajkowski, PR Manager at Isuzu UK.
“These events provide an excellent platform for us to connect with our industry peers, showcase our products, and engage with journalists who appreciate our vehicles. We look forward to sharing our latest developments and insights with the automotive community.”
Isuzu UK’s presence at these events reinforces its commitment to staying at the forefront of the automotive sector and serving its customers with reliable vehicles that meet their unique needs.
Prices inclusive of 20% VAT
THIS Organ Donation Week (September 1824,2023) NHS Blood and Transplant and Hywel Dda University Health Board are calling on people to register their donation decision and talk to their families about organ donation as more than 7,198 people are actively waiting for a transplant across the UK.
Around 93,864 people in Carmarthenshire, 41,228 people in Ceredigion, and 65,611 people in Pembrokeshire have already declared their decision through the NHS Organ Donor Register. However, people need to tell their family to help ensure they support their decision if they are approached about organ donation by a specialist nurse in hospital. When a family is approached, 9 out of 10 families will agree to donation if they know their family member was on the Organ Donor Register and discussed their decision.
Andrea Powell, a 41-year-old from Bridgend, tragically died following a paddleboarding incident
in Pembrokeshire in 2021, leaving her family devastated.
In sharing her story to help others make their donation decisions, Andrea’s husband, Mark, said: “Andrea was the most beautiful soul. A wonderful, caring and devoted mother, daughter, sister, wife and friend taken from us suddenly and tragically when she had so much to live for. We take great pride, solace and comfort in her gift of life to others after her passing.”
Andrea has helped save the lives of 4 people through organ donation. Register your decision at www.organdonation. nhs.uk and share your decision with your family.
Even though the law around organ donation has changed across England, Scotland and Wales, family members will still be consulted before organ donation goes ahead. This means registering your decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register is still just as important as ever and ensuring your friends and family know what you want.
Judith Hardisty, Vice
Chair at Hywel Dda University Health Board and Chair of its Organ Donation Committee, said: “Organ Donation Week is very important and is an opportunity for families to have discussions about organ donation. In Wales we follow the legislation of deemed consent, meaning it is presumed that you have no objection in being an organ donor. Therefore, it is vital that people register their decision and talk to loved ones.’
The health board is now asking people across the area to register their decision and tell their families that they want to donate after their death to ensure they are able to give the gift of life.
Anthony Clarkson, Director of Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “We are very grateful to Hywel Dda University Health Board for its support during Organ Donation Week.
“Every day across the UK, thousands of patients and their families WAIT for that all-important lifesaving call. Yet, this is
often only possible as a result of another family receiving some of the hardest news they might ever have to hear.
“With the increase in the number of people waiting for transplants, it’s more important than ever to register your support for organ donation on the NHS Organ Donor Register to ensure your family are aware of your
decision.
“We urge anyone who hasn’t already done so to take a moment this Organ Donation Week to register and share your decision.”
To find out more and register your decision, visit the NHS Organ Donor Register at www. organdonation.nhs.uk and share your decision with your family.
A Paralympic dressage horse rider, who has overcome persistent pain to fulfil her dreams, has praised the launch of revised guidance by the Welsh Government to improve outcomes and experiences for people suffering from chronic pain.
Persistent pain can affect anyone of any age, at any time. It is estimated between 33% and 50% of the adult population in the UK live with some form of persistent pain, which equates to as many as 1.3 million people in Wales.
These conditions can have a serious effect on mental health, ability to work, and relationships with friends and family.
New Living with Persistent Pain guidance launched today is focused on helping people to develop skills to manage persistent pain for themselves in their day-to-
day life.
This includes supported self-management, improving awareness of persistent pain for primary care staff and the public, advising on the range of management techniques and online tools available, and improved information sharing.
Julia Godden broke her back in July 2018 having previously survived cancer. She suffers with persistent pain in her back due to her injury, and pain in her left leg and hands due to the effects of chemotherapy.
Julia developed techniques to cope by attending a Education Programmes for Patients (EPP) scheme in Gwent, which she now runs.
She has won National Championships, representing Wales and Great Britain, and most recently won the Para Winter Championships 2023.
She said:
“I joined the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) while in a wheelchair following chemotherapy treatment for cancer.
“I have spent an awfully large part of my life laid up in hospital beds, and at home being incredibly unwell and injured. I made the decision that if I was well enough to get up then I would always have a goal and that I would focus on that to help me achieve as much as I can while I can. My current goals are to raise money for charities by walking marathons on my crutches and to make it to the Olympics as a Para Dressage rider.
“I manage my pain with tools I learnt by attending the EPP program, which I now administer. I generally expect my pain level to be around a five out of ten, and that will escalate depending on my workload and due to impromptu flare ups.
“I feel this new guidance will help address the misconception that just because you have pain you need to stop. I also hope it will help people to gain confidence in themselves and find support with setting goals and working towards them.”
Health Minister Eluned Morgan launched the new guidance at the first Persistent Pain Conference for Wales.
She said: “Persistent pain can have major impacts on a person’s quality of life as well as their families. With the right information and support, we can develop persistent pain services in a way that produces better outcomes and experiences for these individuals.
“It is important to Welsh Government that people are supported to take a more active role in their own care. The guidance published today does this
by promoting principles of self-management, coproduction, and shared decisionmaking. It shifts the focus on the person, what matters to them, and not just the medical issue.
“I look forward to working closely with all key stakeholders in the years ahead to deliver on the recommendations of this important piece of work.”
As part of a fournation agreement, the Welsh Government has announced that restrictions preventing some LGBTQ+ people from donating tissue, surgical bone and stem cells will be lifted in Wales.
Recommendations
were provided to the Welsh Government following a review by the FAIR (For the Assessment of Individualised Risk) steering group, a UK-wide collaboration including representatives from all UK blood services, medical, scientific and academic experts, LGBTQ+ groups, as well as a selection of patients, donors and their families.
Tissue and cell donation can save and change the lives of patients in need. Tissue donors provide skin, tendons, bone and other tissues, used to repair or rebuild the bodies and faces of severely injured people whilst donated skin, bone and heart valves can save or improve the quality of life for many patients. Donations can be made by living donors, or by deceased donors, following discussions with the deceased’s family.
Bone marrow/ stem cells also provide lifesaving treatments to patients suffering from certain types of cancers and other blood and immune system diseases that affect the bone marrow. The Welsh Bone Marrow Donor Registry (WBMDR) and other UK registries collect bone marrow/ stem cells from donors for patients who need lifesaving transplants both here in the UK and worldwide.
In 2020, following a review by the FAIR steering group, the Welsh Government introduced landmark changes to blood and platelet donor eligibility so that all donors, regardless of gender, are now asked questions about sexual behaviours, focused mainly on the
last three months. These changes allowed more people from LGBTQ+ communities to donate.
Building on the changes implemented in 2020, the FAIRIII steering group has now made further recommendations to cell and tissue donations which have been endorsed by the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO), which advises UK and devolved governments.
Following the decision, the Welsh Blood Service, NHS Blood and Transplant in England and other organisations involved with donation and transplant will now work together to change the eligibility questions asked during the tissue and cell donation process.
Health Minister Eluned Morgan said: “Tissue and cell donations play an important part in modern medicine, can greatly improve and sometimes save people’s lives.
“I am pleased to announce the implementation of the recommendations will extend this to tissue and cell donations. We need as many donors as possible, and this move will enable more
people to make these priceless donations. The changes will ensure a fairer and more up-todate assessment of risk is applied to all donors, without discrimination.
“I would encourage anyone aged 17-30 to sign up to the Welsh Bone Marrow Donor Registry and to remain opted into the national organ and tissue donation programme.”
Speaking of these changes, Tracey Rees, Interim Chief Scientific Officer for the Welsh Blood Service, said:
“We were proud to be one of the first countries in the world to introduce the recommendations of the FAIR steering group in 2020, enabling more people than ever to donate.
“Whilst tissue and cell services are not responsible for setting the rules around donation, we are delighted our work with the FAIR steering group has led to further changes to the regulations around tissue and cell donation in the UK.
“Building on this ground-breaking work we are again delighted to be working with Services across the UK to improve the safety of tissue and cell donation thanks to the introduction of fairer
eligibility criteria to tissue and cell donation.
“Now we have received the recommendations from the FAIR steering Group we await further
guidance from the Joint United Kingdom (UK) Blood Transfusion and Tissue Transplantation Services Professional Advisory Committee on the implementation
of these changes so they can be introduced without delay.”
To find out what these donations mean to patients, visit Wales Blood Service
A Swansea-based business is set to launch an innovative snack bar which is made using sustainably sourced seaweed from an ocean farm based in Pembrokeshire.
High Tide Seaweed Snack Bars will launch this summer following new product development support from Cardiff Metropolitan University’s ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre, which has been funded by the Welsh Government backed Project HELIX.
High Tide was established by friends Flo Taylor and Beth JosephHorne, who met whilst studying Marine Biology at university in Exeter. After their degrees, Flo went on to pursue a masters in Sustainable Aquaculture and Beth trained as a nutritional therapist. In 2020, the duo decided to combine their skills and set up a business together.
“I got really interested in seaweed farming through my masters and started volunteering for a seaweed farm down in Pembrokeshire. I really wanted to do something
to help them sell their seaweed in a modern and innovative way. I joined up with Beth at that point and was like ‘we need to spread awareness about seaweed and how cool it is,’” said Flo.
Flo and Beth initially started running workshops on seaweed nutrition and sustainability and this led to their idea for High Tide Seaweed Snack Bars.
“We wanted to demonstrate the incredible potential of seaweed as both a sustainable and a nutritious food source. We would make these little bars at our events and everybody loved them so that ignited the idea of
developing the bar,” said Beth.
With Beth having created an initial snack bar recipe, High Tide was put in touch with ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre to help them further develop their product ready for commercial production.
A new product development technologist and bakery technologist supported the company with recipe development, legal labelling, shelf-life testing and production trials, which were all delivered through Food Innovation Wales’s Project HELIX, a Welsh Government funded programme.
“It blew my mind how many different things go into recipe creation for commercial production; there’s just so many things to think about that we hadn’t considered before. ZERO2FIVE really helped us in terms of nailing the texture of the bar with the right level of sweetness and also aiming for the right nutrient levels that we wanted in terms of fats, proteins and carbohydrates,” said Beth.
As a result of the support, High Tide now has a finished product which is both a source of protein and high in fibre. High Tide Seaweed Snack Bars aim to
launch this summer and will be manufactured in Swansea using kelp and dulse seaweed sourced from Câr y Môr in Pembrokeshire, the first community-owned regenerative ocean farm in Wales, as well as oats and seeds which are sweetened naturally with maple and date syrup.
The company acknowledges the importance of the funded support in getting their product ready for market.
“The support from ZERO2FIVE has been incredible. It makes the whole process seem a lot more accessible to anyone who wants to start a business. I don’t think we would have been able to get this far without them,” said Flo.
Beth added,
One of our biggest barriers to moving things forward was the cost. So, to get this level of funded support is invaluable.”
To find out more about the funded technical and commercial support available to Welsh food and drink companies through Project HELIX, visit: www.foodinnovation. wales/funded-support
RURAL community organisations are being invited to apply for grants of up to £25,000 from The Royal Countryside Fund in the autumn round of their Supporting Rural Communities programme.
Maddy Taylor, Head of Operations at The Royal Countryside Fund said:
“We are really keen to hear from people whose community projects are responding to specific needs in their village or town, to tackle problems such as isolation, lack of access to services, training, or employment, or that are improving the sustainability and resilience of countryside communities.
“We want to hear how your project is responding to demand from people in your area, and how it will make a real difference to improve the lives of people living in your local
community.”
The Royal Countryside Fund has up to £250,000 available for not-for-profit rural organisations in this funding round, which opens today, and is looking to fund projects in Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England.
Groups who are interested in applying should read the FAQs and advice documents on The Royal Countryside Fund’s website and then fill in a short application form before midday on Friday, 20th October 2023.
Black Mountains College, based in Wales were awarded £22,000 to support the delivery of community-based vocational training and short courses in rural skills, with the objectives of strengthening community resilience; retaining young people in the area; and, to establish a model circular economy which can be
replicated in other rural communities across the UK. The College works closely with other local organisations to strengthen community provision; and is creating new community spaces such as orchards, woodlands, gardens, and meadows.
Ben Rawlence, CEO of Black Mountains College said:
“Support from The
Royal Countryside Fund allows us to keep going; it means that we can continue to expand. Last year we had 15 students and this year, we have about 25, and we haven’t had to turn anyone away.”
Keith Halstead, Executive Director of The Royal Countryside Fund said:
“The RCF’s grant programme enables rural
communities to become more self-sufficient by funding community-led solutions. With thanks to Waitrose and players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the RCF aims to invest at least £500,000 each year through our rural grant programmes to make projects happen, particularly in hamlets, villages, and small towns.”
THE WELSH Government has become a signatory of an alliance of European regional governments, promoting growth, fostering collaboration, and developing strong value chains in the semiconductor industry.
The Welsh Government’s Representative on Europe, on behalf of Minister for the Economy Vaughan Gething, has signed a declaration to join the European Semiconductor Regional Alliance (ESRA), becoming one of the 19 founding regions of the Alliance.
The ESRA will act as a regional platform as well as a partner to the European Union and will promote the competitiveness of the industry globally. The ESRA’s activities focus on: Research and Innovation: developing
new technologies and applications, Skills and Talent: promoting education and training programmes, Cluster Development: promoting regional clusters and cross-regional partnerships.
Following the signing of the Declaration, Wales’ Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said:
“I’m delighted that the Welsh Government has become a signatory of the European Semiconductor Regional Alliance.
“The Welsh Government is ambitious for the semiconductor sector in the south-east of Wales and the objectives of the ESRA align with our Programme for Government and our Innovation Strategy, published earlier this year.
“Joining the ESRA will provide new opportunities for Welsh
companies to embed themselves in European supply chains, support innovation, collaboration and ultimately create a more resilient semiconductor sector.”
Signing on behalf of
the Welsh Government, Wales’ Representative on Europe, Derek Vaughan said: “Europe remains Wales’ closest and most important trading partner, and
our new membership of the European Semiconductor Regional Alliance will support our International Strategy as we maintain a close and positive relationship with the European Union.”
The signing ceremony, hosted by the Prime Minister of the Free State of Saxony, took place at the European Committee of Regions in Brussels on 7th September.
on the TV programme, PLAY SCHOOL, which was broadcast on BBC1 from 1964 to 1988. Almost 60 years on, we all remember the round, square and arched windows along with the toys like Humpty and the doll Hamble!
Baroness Floella Benjamin was a presenter and today, she sits in the House of Lords as a Liberal Democrat peer. She has recently reminisced how our late Queen Elizabeth II, gave her the Order of Merit, one of our country’s highest honours, just 2 days before she died, last September.
Baroness Benjamin has revealed how the late Queen remembered speaking to her, during a visit to Exeter University in 2012 during her Diamond Jubilee tour. Baroness Benjamin was Chancellor of the university.
Baroness Benjamin had apparently described to the Queen, her childhood struggle with racism as a 10-year-old migrant. “I said, Ma’am, when I was a little girl in Trinidad, I was told the Queen loved me. I was told I was British. But when I came here, I wasn’t part of that motherland they told me about. I had to face so much adversity. Break down so many barriers.”
SBaroness Benjamin was told that the late Queen had mentioned the conversation to a courtier as she made her final appointments to the Order of Merit, which is limited to just 24 members.
TThe late Queen apparently said to him “I wanted that little 10-yearold girl to realise that anything is possible, and I want to give hope to all 10-year-old girls to realise that no matter where they come from, anything is possible”.
being embraced under the new monarch.
Baroness Benjamin has been a lifelong campaigner for children and has urged PM Sunak to appoint a Cabinet-level champion for young people as she’d “.... realised whilst presenting Play School that children didn’t have a voice.... people didn’t take what’s going to happen to children into consideration, enough.”
Baroness Benjamin has been campaigning for a dedicated minister for children, ever since, due to the pressure from the internet, social media, covid, the cost of living crisis and escalating mental health problems. We are now seeing higher levels of absence from schools as well as exclusions.
“When you are in power, policy you make, both directly and indirectly affects children..... I want to see somebody sitting at the Cabinet table saying, How is this affecting our children? Because they are the future.” Said Baroness Benjamin.
She went on “If you don’t consider them enough, we’ve got a broken future. We’re having broken children who are suffering from depression, anxiety, self harm, suicide, you name it. All the things they shouldn’t be having to face because of the kind of society we’ve created for them. We’ve got to fix it.”
Baroness Benjamin was an adviser on the design of postage stamps and was heartbroken to see a set of nativity stamps without a single black child. On TV, she pointed out book illustrations didn’t include black children.
Baroness Benjamin added, “and that was one of her final wishes 2 days before she died. Isn’t that wonderful.”
King Charles III made the announcement in November, and he gave her the prominent role of carrying the Sceptre with Dove, at his Coronation, 4 months ago. It showed that diversity and inclusion were
“They said to me, ‘We hadn’t noticed’, Baroness Benjamin said. “That’s when I realised my job in life was to get people to notice.”
if you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales
WALES’s Minister for Economy, Vaughan Gething, visited Birmingham, Alabama, to mark sixty years since the racist bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church. The 1963 bombing killed four black girls and was pivotal in the American Civil Rights Movement.
The Church was one of the primary institutions in the black community. It became the organising centre for the local civil rights movement.
The protest marches and sit-ins they organised in April 1963 produced retaliation and brutality from the police.
Governor George Wallace told the New York Times that Alabama needed a “few firstclass funerals” to stop integration, and the Church became an obvious target.
On September 15, a fortnight after Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, members of a splinter group of the Ku Klux Klan planted a bomb at the Church that killed the four girls, Addie Mae Collins, Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley and Denise McNair, injured several others, and wrecked the building, smashing the stained-glass windows.
Mass violence broke out across the city, and the National Guard was mobilised to restore
order.
The girls’ callous murder brought widespread condemnation and sympathy and forced city leaders to deal with racism.
A $52,000 reward was offered for the bombers’ arrest, and Governor George Wallace offered an additional $5,000.
Martin Luther King sent him a telegram stating: “The blood of four little children … is on your hands. Your irresponsible and misguided actions have created … the atmosphere that has induced continued violence and now murder.”
Although the US Government’s reaction to the terrorist attack was to press ahead with key legal reforms to halt segregation and voter suppression, delivering justice to those responsible took almost forty years.
News of the tragedy stirred John Petts, a stained glass artist, at his home in Llansteffan: “The news on the radio … left me sick at heart … as a father … I was horrified by the death of the children; as an artist-craftsman, hearing that the stained-glass windows of the Church had been destroyed, I was appalled … and I thought to myself … what can we do about this?
“Could not some of us … join together in
a positive gesture of Christian sympathy in the face of destructive evil, and, as a token, put back at least one of those windows.”
He contacted the Western Mail’s editor, David Cole, who enthusiastically took up the idea. The next day, the Western Mail launched a campaign with the headline: ‘Alabama: Chance for Wales to Show the Way”.
It was agreed that individual donations would not exceed half a crown (12½ p).
“We don’t want some rich man … paying for the whole window. We want it to be given by the people of Wales.”
Money flooded in, the £500 target was reached within days, and the fund closed at £900.
A telegram was sent to the Rev. John Cross: “The people of Wales offer to recreate and erect a stained glass window to replace the one shattered in the bombing of your Church. They do this as a gesture of comfort and support”.
A reply accepting the offer was received stating: “Wales was the only country to offer such direct and material assistance”.
John Petts was commissioned to make the window.
“I agreed on condition that the work on the design would be my gift, the money collected
going to the cost of making the window and transporting it to the United States.”
He travelled to Alabama to discuss possible designs. Still, he struggled “to create something truly worthy of … the simple issue of what one man does to another during his short spell in this shrinking world.
“It was clear that the window in its context of violence must make a statement and an impact both simple and strong –as positive and simple as Christ’s message.
“Eventually one idea grew in strength: the figure of a negro, yet of Christ too, a suffering figure in a crucified gesture, with one hand flung wide in protest, the other in acceptance … remembering the sight of a negro figure twisting under the assault of firehoses, his arms up-flung.
“The jets of water transfixing the figure became the bar of a Cross symbolising all violence.”
As the Reverend Arthur Price explains, the representation of Christ as a black man was controversial: “For many people in the white community during that time, to say that Jesus Christ was black and of African descent would be blasphemous”.
Patterned across the base of the design are Christ’s words: “You do it to Me”, spelling out the Christian message of brotherly love.
Below are the words “Given by the people of Wales, UK MCMLXIV”.
The design was approved, and the
completed window was displayed in Cardiff before being shipped to America. John Petts, David Cole and the Mayor of Cardiff sent a telegram to the dedication service on Sunday, June 6 1965: “The thoughts of the people of Wales will be with you during your dedication service. May the Wales Window symbolise the reaffirmation of Christian love and unity”.
At the service, pastor John Cross said: “It might serve as a constant reminder that there are persons in the world whose hearts are filled with love and brotherly kindness.”
The Church has become an important historical landmark, attracting thousands of visitors, and the window is regarded as one of the key icons of the American Civil Rights Movement, a powerful protest against intolerance and injustice.
Mr Gething’s visit reaffirmed the historic relationship between Wales and Birmingham through a new International Friendship Pact.
Vaughan Gething, the first black Minister in Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, addressed the 16th Street Baptist Church Commemoration on September 15 alongside the first black woman US Supreme Court Justice, Ketanji Brown Jackson.
To mark the occasion and honour the historical relationship between Wales and Birmingham, the Economy Minister and Mayor of Birmingham, Randall Woodfin, signed an International Friendship Pact,
reaffirming a commitment to collaboration on the economy, education, arts and culture. The signing was followed by unveiling a commemorative plaque and a dedication of four trees in Kelly Ingram Park in memory of the four girls.
As well as marking the historic advances made since the 1960s, Mr Gething highlighted the collective need to act. He emphasised that “powerful forces today thrive on division and hate”.
Vaughan Gething said: “Racism stole the future of four girls who should have been free to live long, fulfilled lives. It is a source of great pride for our nation that 60 years on, the Wales Window remains a source of strength to a community that has done so much to turn suffering into hope for people worldwide.
“There will be people in Wales who will remember donating what little they had to help create this unique expression of Welsh solidarity.
“They chose to act on that decent instinct and to do something to help people over 4,000 miles away. Their decision to act was powerful and stands as a reason for
ON Sunday Wales became the first UK nation to drop its speed limit from 30mph as the Welsh Labour Government enforced a new blanket 20mph speed limit in built-up areas. It is estimated that the upfront cost to the taxpayer will be £32 million.
all of us to feel hopeful about our ability to take on racism together.
“Despite the advances we rightly celebrate, we know justice and progress are not inevitable. There are powerful forces today that thrive on division and hate. As we honour the past, we owe it to those who made change happen to recognise the action needed today to create a better tomorrow.
“I’m delighted to sign the Birmingham – Wales International Friendship Pact with Mayor Woodfin as we renew our unique bond.
“We will build upon the strong relationships we have developed and learn from each other through continued cultural and economic cooperation and collaboration.”
Welcoming Mr Gething to Birmingham, Mayor Randall Woodfin said: “The names Denise McNair, Cynthia Morris Wesley, Carole Robertson, and Addie Mae Collins will forever be etched in civil rights history.
“While commemorating these young girls will be a time of mourning and solemn reflection, it’s also a time of unity.
“That’s why the City of Birmingham is honoured to welcome Minister Gething to share in this scared moment as we build the bonds of camaraderie and collaboration.”
This has sparked debate in the Senedd but also amongst members of the public who will be directly affected. In fact, the ‘topical question’ in my e-newsletter last week was on this exact issue, and my inbox was full with constituents sharing their views on the subject - overwhelmingly against the new policy.
In the Senedd, my Welsh Conservative colleagues continue to campaign hard to demand a change of course. A petition calling for the reversal of the new speed restriction has reached more than 170,000, highlighting the sheer strength of feeling. As a result, this must now be debated in the Senedd.
Road safety is of course a hugely important issue, and I am a strong supporter of 20mph limits outside schools, playgrounds, hospitals and other community facilities where extra care must be taken. But imposing a blanket ‘one size fits all approach’ is not the right approach. Local councils should have much greater flexibility to vary the 20mph policy.
But this is not the first time that Welsh Government Ministers have pushed antimotorist policies. The most obvious example is the Welsh Government’s decision in 2019 not to build the M4 relief road - despite a cross-party consensus for more than twenty years that this upgrade is badly needed. But this not just about cars and motorists, it affects the whole economy of Wales.
Given the deep and long term problems that have been holding back the Welsh economy, we desperately need policies in Wales that boost economic growth and attract investment. Wales lags behind the rest of the UK when it comes to growth and new jobs. Recent government figures show the economic inactivity rate in Wales was more than 23%, compared to a UK rate of 21%. This means that the proportion of people who are neither in work, nor looking for work, is significantly greater in Wales when compared to the UK as a whole.
During the summer, it was reported that Wales was seeing the sharpest rise in unemployment compared to the rest of Britain. The Welsh Government Economy Minister said the rise was “concerning” but said nothing about what should be done to get Wales off the bottom of the league table.
Let us not forget that it is up to devolved nations how they spend the money that they receive from UK Government. Time and time again, it is frittered away by Welsh Government.
Instead of investing in strengthening our economy, their latest plans are to put another 36 politicians into the Senedd at the cost of £120 million to the Welsh taxpayer. I am not sure many people in Pembrokeshire would agree that the answer to Wales’s problems is to create yet more politicians in Cardiff Bay.
R ENEWABLE energy and the race to Net Zero has huge potential to provide much needed jobs and investment to Pembrokeshire and the rest of Wales.
Off-shore wind projects including those proposed in the Celtic Sea have the ability to help slash household bills, increase our energy security and provide the basis for us as a nation to lead the way in new green technologies. We should be grasping the opportunities this presents for coastal communities right now, training our young people to be the engineers and shapers of the future as well as assisting small and medium sized businesses to exploit the full potential of this transition.
Sadly, Rishi Sunak’s increasingly lacklustre approach to facing up to climate change is wreaking immense damage, creating massive uncertainty for investors and strangling our economic development.
I recently took Tory Ministers to task in Parliament on this and raised directly my concerns about the debacle which will now see off-shore wind schemes put on hold for at least a further 12 months or even longer because of their utter mishandling of the generation auction process.
Industry had been warning for months that the auction price was set too low, writing to the UK Government both in March and July but the Tories ignored developers completely. As a result of the government’s failure on renewable
ON MONDAY, September 18, the Welsh Government published what it claimed were “once-ina-generation” reforms to the Senedd and elections to it.
energy, billpayers are now paying extra every year on their energy bills, a massive burden on hardworking people and a sizeable contributor to the current cost-of-living crisis.
“These results put a great opportunity for economic growth on hold. UK energy bills will be £2bn higher for an extra year, thousands of jobs that would have been created are delayed, £10 billion of investment is delayed” these are not my words but those of Renewable UK. In contrast, the Irish Government took a more proactive, forward looking approach and are now several steps ahead of us.
All around the world governments are getting ahead in the race for green jobs, securing investment in their renewable industries. Meanwhile the current UK Government has presided over a failed response with a hugely damaging ban on onshore wind in England, and now no new offshore wind farms. Even before this latest calamity, the UK was already forecast to have the slowest growth in low carbon electricity generation of the world’s largest eight economies up to 2030.
It is simply not good enough.
Labour knows that we must lead the way on renewable energy and the green agenda or face the consequences.
Unfortunately, while Rishi Sunak and the Tories sit on their hands, the UK will only fall further and further behind.
Labour and Plaid Cymru argue the reforms will create “a modern Senedd, better able to represent people in Wales”.
The parties, bound together by a Cooperation Agreement, say that a larger Senedd will allow better scrutiny and hold the Welsh Government to account.
If Senedd Members support the changes outlined in the Bill, they will be in place for the 2026 Senedd elections.
The key changes planned are an increase in the number of Senedd Members from 60 to 96, an end to the links between politicians and constituencies, and ending the FirstPast-The-Post system. The public will have no say on who appears on party lists or where they appear upon them. That system will end any connection between voters and those who represent them.
Instead, future elections to the Welsh Parliament will use the system used to select regional members, called the D’Hondt formula.
The 32 new UK Parliament constituencies will be paired to create 16 Senedd constituencies for the 2026 Senedd election.
Each constituency will elect six Members.
Senedd elections will be held every four years from 2026 onwards.
Importantly, all candidates for future Senedd elections must live in Wales.
The Bill also proposes a full boundary review should take place after the 2026 Senedd election. That review will take effect at the 2030 Senedd election, with reviews every eight years.
The Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales
will be repurposed and renamed – to be known as the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru with the functions necessary to undertake reviews of Senedd constituency boundaries.
The Welsh Government has separated a further Bill from the main legislation. That Bill will introduce binding gender quotas on political parties for future elections. Such a move’s legality is doubtful, so the Welsh Government has not included it in its principal legislation.
Counsel General Mick Antoniw said: “This Bill will help ensure the Senedd reflects the huge changes to Wales’ devolution settlement since 1999, including law-making and taxraising powers.
“Wales is the most under-represented country in the UK –the Senedd has the least Members of any devolved Parliament in the country and the recent reduction to UK Parliamentary seats is the most significant change in a century.”
Leader of Plaid Cymru, Rhun ap Iorwerth, said: “A stronger, more representative Senedd, elected through a proportional system, will be better equipped to continue to make a difference to the people of Wales. It will ensure fairness, provide better scrutiny and help us realise our ambition for Wales and our maturing democracy.
“Once passed, the Senedd Reform Bill
will also place Welsh democracy on firmer foundations and bring us closer to the size of the legislatures in Scotland and the north of Ireland.”
Responding to the laying of the Bill, the Chief Executive of Wales’s Boundary Commission, Shereen Williams MBE OStJ DL, said: “The Commission welcomes the laying of this Bill and looks forward to engaging constructively with Welsh Government and other partners as we prepare to adopt responsibility for Senedd Cymru boundary reviews, depending on the legislation passing.
“The Commission looks forward to playing its part in ensuring that Wales’s democracy and institutions are fit for the future, and eagerly awaits the national conversation that will begin as the Commission opens its consultations on the first Senedd boundary review.”
Commenting on Welsh Government estimates that its proposals for Senedd reform could cost up to £120 million, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for the Constitution Darren Millar MS adopted his usual reductive approach.
“The Welsh Government constantly bleats for more money from the UK Government,” he said, “yet it appears to have money to burn for more politicians and Ministerial offices.
“The cost of Labour’s
plans for Senedd Reform will rub salt in the wounds of staff in Welsh hospitals and schools whom Ministers have warned that cuts are on the way.
“The people of Wales want more doctors, dentists, nurses and teachers, not more politicians. These proposals should not proceed without their express consent in a referendum.”
The Conservative strategy needs much more substance and less desperate spin to cut through. There are plenty of targets:
• The abolition of direct constituency representation.
• Rigged lists that will drawn up by unelected and unelectable party hacks.
• The fact the electoral system will embed an unaccountable one-party state even more firmly would be a start.
• Whether the Senedd is using its existing scrutiny powers to their best effect and reforming the scrutiny system.
For now, while the Welsh Government casts around for cuts thanks to its tokenistic and unaffordable budget, the Conservative line will play well among the party faithful and devolution sceptics. For the future, the lines of attack must hit at the heart of the proposed electoral reforms.
AN INVESTMENT of up to £500m by the UK Government in Port Talbot Steelworks will not stop the loss of thousands of jobs.
Moving to “greener” electric arc furnaces will also hit businesses in the plant’s supply chain and restrict the type of steel produced there.
Negotiations between the UK Government and Port Talbot Steelworks’ owner, Tata Steel, over a support package have been ongoing for several years.
The issues surrounding production at the plant include energy costs, the drive to “decarbonise” heavy industry and international market volatility regarding steel tariffs.
UK Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch said the deal protected about 5,000 jobs “which would have been lost” but risked the roles of about 3,000 other workers employed by Tata Steel UK.
Roy Rickhuss, General Secretary of Community, the steelworkers’ union, said: “Following years of talking about decarbonising Port Talbot, we were given assurances by the leadership of Tata that discussions between them and our Government would be restricted to their financial commitment and policy support and that any decisions on the application of low-carbon steelmaking technology would be made in full partnership with us.
“It now seems that Tata and the Government are intent on building a future based on an Electric Arc Furnace-only steelmaking model.
“An electric arc furnaceonly approach is shortsighted, undermines the integrity of our industry and comes at the expense of our steelworkers. It would expose us to the price and availability of steel scrap. That risks Britain’s economic security by making British steelmaking reliant on imports of virgin steel and steel in imported goods.
“Tata and the
Government have gone for short-term savings over the long-term welfare of our members and the security of our economy. Community will do whatever it takes to protect the interests of our members.”
Assistant General Secretary Alasdair McDiarmid added: “Tata and the Government should have consulted with the unions well before the announcement, and their failure to do so has put unnecessary worry on the workers at Port Talbot.
“We will do everything in our power to protect our industry and our members from the implications of this misguided decarbonisation on the cheap announcement.”
The Secretary of State for Wales, David TC Davies, addressed criticism of the deal with Tata.
Speaking to BBC Wales, Mr Davies said: “We did everything we can to save jobs and ensure the steel continues to be made, but I’m not going to shy away from the fact that this is still terrible news.
“Tata is currently losing over a million pounds a day [at Port Talbot]... and no company will ever accept losses like that.
“So they decided they were going to close that plant down.
“When we became aware of that, we entered into negotiations with them as a government to say, ‘well, look, can we do anything to keep steel being made there? What do we need to do to keep
Tata here?’”
Mr Davies said it was “not going to save every job, but will save [jobs] overall because Tata was looking to pull out of the UK, so that would have been 8,000 jobs gone, plus the supply chain.
“Not only would Port Talbot have closed but the other plants would have gone as well.”
The UK government said it would ensure a “broad range of support for any staff affected by the transition”.
On Friday, Tata Steel managing director T.V. Narendran said: “We were reaching a point where we had to make a call, and I think we’ve been public about that.
“We said that, a few months back, that we probably have a year left to decide one way or the other.
“The timing of this [deal] has been very opportuneat least we’ve secured the future of the site.”
Speaking in the Senedd on Tuesday, September 19, Wales’s Economy Minister damned the deal with faint praise. He criticised the UK Government for not including the Welsh Government in the talks and claimed delaying a decision meant the chance for a “fair transition” had been lost.
However, the Minister added: “It is welcome that the UK Government has progressed negotiations with the company to ensure a long-term future for steel in Wales.
“The total loss of the operation in Wales would
LAST Saturday, Wales marked the 623rd year anniversary of the proclamation of Owain Glyndwr as Prince of Wales, which kicked off the start of a 15 year campaign against the rule of King Henry IV of England.
be unconscionable, and it is in the interests of the workforce, industry and communities that the sector has a long-term future here in Wales.”
Preseli Pembrokeshire MS Paul Davies, the Shadow Economy Minister, asked what the Welsh Government was doing with the levers at its disposal and whether it would come forward with money to support the move to decarbonise production and help workers at risk of redundancy.
Mr Gething avoided a specific answer but emphasised the Welsh Government’s preparedness to partner with all parties to deliver “a just transition”.
The key concern for the Welsh Government is the effect on supply chain businesses. Tata’s businesses at Llanwern and Trostre could be at risk. The high-grade anthracite mine at Aberpergwm could be hit hard by losing its main customer. Moreover, steel produced by electric arc furnaces is unsuitable for high-grade automotive or aviation use.
Job losses and changes at Port Talbot will have far-reaching effects, from which Pembrokeshire is not immune. The ripple effect on the wider service and consumer economy is difficult to calculate. But job losses at Port Talbot will affect employment elsewhere in the region. Using electric arc furnaces hits the hopes for using hydrogen fuel produced as part of the Celtic Sea Freeport plan, while engineering businesses also face a hit.
Of course, we have today – thankfully –moved away from the days of armed conflict. Nevertheless, Glyndwr holds an important place in Welsh history, culture and the collective psyche.
He was the first to establish a Parliament –Senedd Cymru – in Wales at Machynlleth. He set out his plans for the development of two national universities, an independent Welsh Church and sought to re-introduce the laws of Hywel Dda.
As we have previously discussed in this column when arguing for the need for legal reforms and devolved justice in Wales, the laws of Hywel Dda were unique to the historical, cultural and social fabric of Wales. According to many scholars, they have been noted for their remarkable egalitarian values, at a time when the concept of women’s rights was not recognised.
In many ways, Glyndwr set out the path for a postmodern, democratic Wales.
While his vision for a Welsh parliament came to fruition again in 2019, devolved justice – despite repeated calls by the Welsh Government – and independence have not yet been realised.
However, support for independence is undoubtedly on the move, hitting around a third.
Only last month, a poll by Redfield & Wilton Strategies concluded that 29% of those polled support Welsh independence – this rose to 38% when “don’t knows” were excluded.
Conversely, the number of those supporting remaining in the Union (including “don’t knows”) was 48% - signalling a real apathy with the status quo.
The latter figure seems to tie in with Professor Alisa Henderson (Edinburgh University) and Richard Jones’ (Cardiff Unversity) report who earlier this month, warned of the dangers of “muscular Unionism”.
In the report titled, “The
Ambivalent Union”, the authors conclude that fewer than half of voters across all four UK nations see maintaining the Union in its’ current form as a priority.
Indeed, this is a damning indictment of the Union, when until around a decade ago, support was consistently around 80%.
We can only guess at what factors might be driving the apathy – cost of living crisis, high energy costs, and dissatisfaction with Westminster politics perhaps. And young people in particular, seem to be partly behind the surge in support for independence in Wales.
With this in mind, we ask, should we do better?
From poverty to energy costs, Wales is without doubt, one of the most disadvantaged “regions” in the UK.
According to data from the Office for National Statistics in 2018, gross domestic product per head of population in Wales was £23,866 – only marginally ahead of North East England.
The Welsh Affairs Committee recognises that Wales generates twice the amount of energy it uses, however according to National Energy Action, those in North Wales pay higher average energy costs than anywhere else in the UK, with South Wales bearing the brunt of the third highest costs.
Last summer, Rightmove data reported that Wales saw the second highest rent price increase in the UK, with an annual increase of 15.1%.
Why accept these institutional disparities? A Government that prioritises Westminster interests will never prioritise Wales.
The experience of Iceland, Slovakia, Malta and Ireland show that Wales is not too small to be independent. Nor is it too poor, as Professor John Doyle’s excellent 2022 report shows.
Join us in Bangor as we march for independence this Saturday. Better still, please join Yes Cymru at www. yes.cymru to campaign for a brighter, better and more vibrant future.
For up to date news please check our social network channels www.pembrokeshire-herald.co.uk
MRS G.S. ADIE
FRESHWATER EAST The death occurred suddenly, but peacefully at home on Friday 8th September of Mrs Gillian Stafford Adie, aged 91 years of Freshwater East. Beloved wife of the late John. Dearly loved Mum and respected mother-in-law of Keith and Alison, Susan and Bob. Cherished Nan to James and Marcus. Gill will be sadly missed by her wider family and many friends. The funeral service will take place at Ss Faith & Tyfei Church, Lamphey on Tuesday 26th September at 11.00am followed by interment St. Michael’s Cemetery, Pembroke. In accordance with Gill’s wishes, formal black clothing is not necessary. There will be family flowers only, with donations, if so desired for Guide Dogs for the Blind 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
E
MRS G.S. ADIE
FRESHWATER EAST The death occurred suddenly, but peacefully at home on Friday 8th September of Mrs Gillian Stafford Adie, aged 91 years of Freshwater East. Beloved wife of the late John. Dearly loved Mum and respected mother-in-law of Keith and Alison, Susan and Bob. Cherished Nan to James and Marcus. Gill will be sadly missed by her wider family and many friends. The funeral service will take place at Ss Faith & Tyfei Church, Lamphey on Tuesday 26th September at 11.00am followed by interment St. Michael’s Cemetery, Pembroke. In accordance with Gill’s wishes, formal black clothing is not necessary. There will be family flowers only, with donations, if so desired for Guide Dogs for the Blind 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
Wi LL
(Bi LL ) M ORR i S MORRIS William George (Bill) Peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Thursday 7th September
2023 William George (Bill) Morris of Dale formerly of Merryborough Farm, aged 87 years. Beloved husband of the late Beth, much loved father and father in law of Vanessa and Gareth, Michael and Lynn, devoted grandfather of Alex and Sam. The funeral service will take place on Monday 9th October, 2:30pm at St. James’ Church, Dale followed by interment at Dale Cemetery. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, made payable to the Alzheimer’s Society may be sent c/o Mrs Vanessa Jones, Port House, Portfield Gate, Haverfordwest, SA62 3LS.Further enquiries to F. G. Rees & Sons, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 764418.
M AUREE n
F RA n C e S M ARY
S K ee LS
Mrs. Maureen Frances Mary Skeels Pembroke
The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, following a short illness, of Mrs. Maureen Skeels of Wrench Close, Pembroke. She was 88. The devoted wife of John, she was a much loved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She will be greatly missed. The funeral will take place on Friday 22nd. September with a service at Tabernacle Chapel, Main Street, Pembroke at 2.00. pm followed by interment at St. Michael’s Cemetery with her beloved late son, Lesley. Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Maureen for Ward 7, Withybush Hospital may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.
R OBERT DAV i D
Gi BBS
Mr. Robert David Gibbs Pembroke Dock The death occurred peacefully at his home on Thursday 10th September of Mr. Robert Gibbs “Bob”, of Amphion Court, Pembroke Dock.
he was 72. The funeral will take place on Tuesday 19th September with a Service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium Narberth at 1.45p.m. Any enquiries can be made to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, who are carrying out the arrangements.
Gi LL i A n S TAFFORD
A D i E
MRS G.S. ADIE
FRESHWATER EAST The death occurred suddenly, but peacefully at home on Friday 8th September of Mrs Gillian Stafford Adie, aged 91 years of Freshwater East. Beloved wife of the late John. Dearly loved Mum and respected mother-in-law
of Keith and Alison, Susan and Bob. Cherished Nan to James and Marcus. Gill will be sadly missed by her wider family and many friends. The funeral service will take place at Ss Faith & Tyfei Church, Lamphey on Tuesday 26th September at 11.00am followed by interment St. Michael’s Cemetery, Pembroke. In accordance with Gill’s wishes, formal black clothing is not necessary. There will be family flowers only, with donations, if so desired for Guide Dogs for the Blind 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
Well Lucy Letby is making news again. It seems that her legal team has applied for permission to appeal against her convictions but according to one national newspaper an expert witness has suggested that she may have killed three more babies and tried to murder another fifteen.
Most of us find it hard to believe that anyone would deliberately set out to harm defenceless babies in this way and crimes of this magnitude clearly deserve to the whole life term handed out by the judge. After all the bereaved parents have been given life sentences which is why they truly need our prayers.
But I’ve been fascinated to see the word ‘evil’ being used in connection with these crimes and that got me wondering what people think of when they use this term given our post-Christian culture. If anyone asked me what I mean by the word evil I think I would begin by turning to the well-known
phrase ‘the world, the flesh and the devil’, and I would begin with the idea of ‘the flesh’.
Put simply this is a reference to what might be described as ‘the darker side’ of human nature. As we are all aware we are complex creatures. We are capable of doing the most wonderful things and yet history shows us that ordinary people can do the most wicked things too, the holocaust being a prime example. The oldfashioned word ‘sinner’ springs to mind and so I think it would be fair to say that that we encounter evil most frequently in ‘sinful’ human behaviour.
But I would suggest that we need to factor in the reality of ‘the devil and his angels’ too. Jesus certainly took their existence seriously and so we need to appreciate that when He told His disciples to pray ‘deliver us from evil’ He wasn’t just thinking of what we humans can do. He was referring to this unseen spiritual dimension too. The apostle Paul was making the
same point when he told his friends that we need to be aware of ‘evil powers’, that is unseen spiritual forces that seek to undermine God’s work and cause things to go wrong.
All of which brings me to the ‘the world’. This points us to the fact that our values and ideas can be shaped by a combination of our fallen human nature and the work of those malevolent powers and not by God. This can result in persecution and racism for example, but it can also result in the kind of confused thinking that has prompted a Christian commentator to argue that ‘the same society that would rightly condemn a nurse for killing a baby born at 23 weeks, regards it as a human right for a mother to kill her own baby at that age’.
You won’t be surprised then, to discover that I believe the Lord’s Prayer is as relevant today as it’s ever been because it encourages us to pray that God’s will might be done on earth and not just heaven. ROB
D EAR SIR
I write to you as a concerned citizen who believes in the importance of reflecting on our society’s values and priorities. In this age of constant change and evolving ideologies, it is essential to revisit the fundamental principles that underpin our collective identity.
When we look back at the post-war generation, inspired by the sacrifices made for the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS), we see a time when abstract moral principles held significant sway in our nation’s psyche. The spirit of unity and shared values was palpable, as individuals came together to create a healthcare system that would benefit all.
Today, it seems that the mindset of some individuals, particularly within the realm of Conservative politics, has shifted towards materialism and self-centeredness. Possessions have become the ultimate pursuit, leaving little room for the consideration of how ethical principles can positively impact human lives.
Our children, over their formative 18 years, are shaped by the standards set by the commercial, media, advertising, television, and online corporations, which often prioritize profit over principles. In such an environment, it becomes increasingly challenging for young minds to cultivate moral values that will guide them throughout their lives.
While abstract principles like Egalitarianism and Ethical Justice may seem distant in Britain today, there are
pragmatic standards that can emerge from the intangible principle of shared universal health. It is vital that our children have the opportunity to learn from these principles, which could serve as a compass for their actions and decisions.
Only 6% of the adult population in the UK donate blood, a vital resource that may be needed to save lives tomorrow. While not everyone’s blood may be suitable for donation, this statistic highlights a significant aspect of our society: the expectation to receive without the corresponding sense of obligation to give.
This expectation to put “me first” is at the core of conservatism. Those who do generously donate blood often remain silent, while economic bigots eager to preach their self-serving ideologies dominate the discourse. It is a simple truth that our need for
our neighbor’s blood could teach our children the value of sharing and empathy. We c ould extend this principle to organ donation, saving even more lives.
As things stand, the scorecard in the UK appears to be tilted heavily in favor of Conservative Greed at 94, while Blood Donation stands at a mere 6. It is my hope that we can collectively work towards shifting this balance, instilling in our children the importance of altruism, empathy, and shared responsibility.
raise them and this framework should enable safe and effective reporting to take place.
When effective reporting is not enabled, the healthcare service becomes less safe. Recent events show us the ultimate cost of ignoring concerns in the NHS.
BMA Cymru Wales contributed towards this latest publication and we strongly advise all NHS Wales employers to implement this with immediate effect.
The BMA continues to campaign for a change in the culture, from a culture of blame and suspicion, to a culture of encouraging reporting within the NHS.
the inclusion of an independent ‘speaking up safely’ senior board representative will hold members of the executive team to account and ensure a culture of raising concerns is upheld from the top down.
The BMA will continue to stand by doctors who speak out and challenge threats to patient care.
Iona Collins BMA Chair of Welsh Council ,CRiSiS in WALES
DEAR SIR
figure which falls well short of both current national targets and the Welsh Government’s ambition of treating 80% of people in time by 2026.
The charity warns that Wales’ current target of treating 75% of people with cancer on time remains a target that has never been met – a fact which is leaving cancer patients to face devastating waits for potentially life-saving treatment.
failed to meet targets for treating people with cancer on time.
“The figures show a cancer care system that is unsustainable and at breaking point, with people living with cancer facing devastating delays and being let down by the very systems designed to support them.
The workplace environment must be safe for both staff and patients. When safety concerns arise, the reporters must feel safe and protected to
BMA Cymru Wales recommended that a senior independent representative should be on the executive board and we are glad that this has been implemented.
We believe that
Summons/Jean M Masters (Highfield) Arizona Superior Court, Navajo County David J Silver Enterprises LLC, An Arizona limited liability company, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Plaintiff, vs. Jean M Masters (Highfield) et al. UNITED KINGDOM, WALES Defendant. No. CV2023-00156 Summons State of Arizona, 86025 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA to the above-named Defendant: Masters Jean M (Highfield)
I. A lawsuit has been filed against you.
II. If you do not want a Judgement taken against you for the relief demanded in the accompany Complaint, you must file a Response In writing in the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court, 100 E Code Talker Drive Holbrook, Arizona 86025 United States of America accompanied by the necessary filing fee. A copy of the Response must also be mailed to the Plaintiff/ (Pro Se) whose name appears above.
III. The Response must be filed within
The cancer care system is at breaking point, with over 780 people facing treatment delays in just one month.
The latest data shows that in July only 56.6% of people with cancer received their treatment on time – a
Macmillan is now calling for urgent action to support both hard working NHS staff, and the people they care for – not least the need to fund and train more specialist cancer roles to help manage the growing demand for cancer care in Wales.
While any improvement in cancer treatment waiting times is welcome, the data still shows that in July, as in every other month over the last two years, the Welsh Government has
Twenty Days, exclusive of the date of service, if served within the State of Arizona, or within Thirty Days exclusive of the date of service, if served outside the State of Arizona.
IV. This is a legal document, if you do not understand its consequences, you should seek the advice of an attorney.
“People recently diagnosed with cancer, and the tireless NHS staff who care for them, know all too well that cancer treatment is time critical.
“Both patients and exhausted NHS professionals will now quite rightly look towards the targets set by the Welsh Government and ask, ‘what are we waiting for?’ Urgent action must be taken to ensure people with cancer can get the timely, highquality care they need.
Glenn Page Macmillan Policy ManagerCouncilWitness My Hand and the Seal of the Superior Court. Dated: April 26, 2023 Clerk Of the Superior Court By /s/ illegible Deputy Clerk David J Silver (Pro Se), Member of David J Silver Enterprises Limited Liability Company, An Arizona Company, 33789 N Barbara Drive San Tan Valley, Arizona U.S.A 85142 (480) 544-4895
Requests for Reasonable Accommodation for Persons With Disabilities Must Be Made to the Court By Parties At Least 3 Working Days in Advance of A Scheduled Court Proceeding. If you wish to obtain a copy of the Complaint, please contact David J Silver (Pro Se), Member of David J Silver Enterprises Limited Liability Company, An Arizona Company, 33789 N Barbara Drive San Tan Valley, Arizona United States of America 85142 (480) 544-4895
CARAVAnS
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SANNA DUTHIE, a 35-year-old woman from Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, has achieved the extraordinary by completing one of the world’s most challenging mountain races, the Montane Dragon’s Back.
Sanna took on this grueling 236-mile race under scorching temperatures, not only for personal achievement but to raise funds for the Wales Air Ambulance.
The Montane Dragon’s Back Race, which spans six days, demands competitors to cover the equivalent of 1.5 marathons daily while camping in remote, wild, and trackless mountain terrain. This race draws participants from all corners of the globe, and it’s renowned for its brutal nature, with over half of the entrants failing to finish.
Sanna’s journey began on September 4th at Conwy Castle, and she was one of the 298 runners who embarked
on this epic odyssey. Despite the punishing conditions and fierce competition, she emerged triumphant, not only as the fifth female finisher but also securing the 19th place overall. Her remarkable time of 68 hours and four minutes
showcased her unwavering commitment.
Sanna Duthie was chosen to represent the Wales Air Ambulance due to her passion and dedication, which had impressed the judging panel. After crossing the finish line at Cardiff
Castle, she expressed her elation, calling the experience a ‘dream come true.’ She marveled at the incredible atmosphere in Cardiff, where crowds cheered her name, creating a euphoric party atmosphere.
As a symbol of her achievement, Sanna received a dragon, a tradition in the Montane Dragon’s Back Race, which she named “Hope.” She explained the significance, saying, “As long as you have hope, it will pull you through.” She frequently drew on this hope during the race, and receiving her dragon was a poignant moment.
Sanna’s fundraising efforts for the Wales Air Ambulance are nothing short of extraordinary. Notably, in 2021, she raised nearly £5,000 by running the entire Pembrokeshire Coast Path in one go. Her motivation to support the charity served as a powerful driving force throughout her Dragon’s
Back journey, where she has currently raised £2,700.
Encouraging more women to take on such challenges, Sanna emphasized the mental strength of women and the importance of self-belief. She expressed gratitude to the Wales Air Ambulance for believing in her and affording her the opportunity to participate in this incredible race.
Tracey Ann Breese, Wales Air Ambulance’s events and partnership fundraiser, lauded Sanna’s remarkable achievement, calling her a “remarkable woman.” The charity is both pleased and proud of her accomplishments, acknowledging her race conquest as a personal goal and a means of fundraising.
To support Sanna in her efforts to raise funds for the Wales Air Ambulance, you can visit her Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/sanna-duthie3
This match marked the first time this season that the Vikings of Hakin United dropped points. Nevertheless, they remain joint leaders at the top of the table alongside Goodwick United, while Tenby holds a strong thirdplace position.
TJustin Harding, the player-manager of Hakin United, expressed his satisfaction, saying, “We’re pleased to have secured four points from our two encounters with this formidable opponent.”
Just a couple of weeks ago, Tenby had narrowly lost 1-0 to Hakin, so this result was a positive outcome for them.
The action on the field started early, with the hosts, Tenby, taking the lead in the sixth minute.
SScott Ferney found the back of the net from six yards after a ball bounced around the Hakin area. However, Hakin United responded on the 32ndminute mark when Ben Aldred calmly converted
a penalty after Leon Luby was fouled inside the area.
As the final whistle blew, both teams had to settle for a point, making for an exciting and evenly contested match.
Tenby Lineup: Dylan Noot, Daryl Mansbridge, Sam Butler, Ned Davies, Toby Rossiter, Dan Storer (Captain), Adam Muskett, Scott Ferney, Jerome Mansbridge, Harri Phillips, Spencer Williams. Hakin United Lineup: Anthony Bevans, Kieran King, Tom Llewellin, Jay Power, Jake Merry, Ben Aldred, Leon Luby, Jack Britton, Sam Christopher, Ryan Wilson (Captain), Shane Walsh. Referee: David Badger.
Clarbeston
Tom Jago opened the scoring for Merlins Bridge with a strike from the edge of the box, and Steffan Williams added the second, giving the Wizards a 2-0 lead at halftime. Williams then secured his brace, putting Merlins Bridge in firm control. Clarbeston Road pulled one back through Matt Ellis, but Nick Squire and substitute Tom Mezzetta added late goals to complete the scoring.
Clarbeston Road Lineup: Rhys Mansell, Rheinallt George (Captain), Joules Ward, Matthew Ellis, Matthew Griffiths, Ben Clague, Jake Booth, Keegan Summers, Rob Morgans, Laurie Haworth.
Merlins Bridge Lineup: Gary Thomas, Danny Peters, Andrew John, Jordan Thomas, Ryan Evans, Nick Squire (Captain), Tom Jago, Dai Davies, Alex Thomas, Steffan Williams, Will Evans. Referee: Tudor Walters.
Monkton Swifts.
The first half belonged to Monkton Swifts, with striker Rudy Poole striking an early goal and adding a second from the penalty spot. However, the second half saw the Sports making a comeback, and late goals by Adam Lawrence earned them their first league point of the season.
Monkton Swifts Lineup: Taylor Gullam, Will Abrahams, Bailey Clark, Jake Seaton (Captain), Tom Powell, Noah Davison, Jason Finnegan, Rudy Poole, Toby Davies, Nathan Ferrier, Josh Dearsley. Fishguard Sports Lineup: Jonathan Strawbridge, Haydn Hughes, Iuean Llewellyn, Henry Sturman, Sean Thomas, Jack Griffiths, Greg Hughes, Luke Thomas, Iwan Howells, Adam Lawrence, Patrick Hughes
(Captain).Referee: Paul Rooney.
Carew 2-0 Milford
United Marcus Griffiths, a former Welsh League star, broke the deadlock in the 84th minute, and just a minute later, Archie Smith added an important second goal to secure Carew’s second win of the season.
Carew Lineup: Tom Davies, Shaun Whitfield, Sam Southcott, Iwan Izzard (Captain), Archie Smith, Charlie Perkins, Marcus Griffiths, James Hinchliffe, Curtis Hurlow, Tom Cole. Milford United Lineup: Chris Malloy, Wesley Hill, Sam Davies, Scott Griffiths (Captain), Michael Fuller, Morgan Picton, Liam Parks, Liam Davies, Joseph Hall, Scott Reid. Referee: John Jenkins.
Will Haworth and
Dalling were the stars of the day, each securing a terrific hat-trick. Jonny Horgan added a brace, and Jake Smith also found the back of the net. Manager Chris O’Sullivan, who made a return to the field, expressed his satisfaction with the performance
despite missing several players.
Goodwick United Lineup: Kyle Marsh, Steff Hayes, Ben Adams, Luke Hayward (Captain), Steven Dockerty, Jonny Horgan, Chris O’Sullivan, Jake Smith, Rhys Dalling, Will Haworth, Daniel James. Pennar Robins
Lineup: Rory Williams, Nick Willis, Adam Phillips, Ethan Ball, Ross Jones, Conner Roberts (Captain), Connor Willis, Kieran Smith, Liam Topp, Ceri Griffiths. Referee: Martin Jones.
Richard Cope played a pivotal role, providing an assist for Henry Lawrence’s opener just before halftime and later scoring Kilgetty’s second goal. Neyland managed to pull one back through Max Bowman-Davies, but Kilgetty held firm to secure the crucial league points.
Kilgetty Lineup: Richard Webb, Richard Tebbutt, Sam Lewis, Richard Hurst, Brett Evans, Jac Waters, Richard Cope (Captain), Adam Johns, Lloyd Hughes, Henry Lawrence, Rhys Hewson. Neyland
Lineup: Patrick Hannon, Rhys Phillips, Morgan James, Tyler Sutton, Sean Hannon, Jamie Evans, Max Bowman-Davies, Jack John, Aidan Rees, Mike Chandler (Captain), Taylor Collins. Referee: Gary Lewis.
Robins II
Pembroke Boro v Clarbeston Road II
Solva v Lawrenny
DIVISION 4
Carew III v Prendergast Villa
Fishguard Sports II v Tenby II
Monkton Swifts III v Monkton Swifts III
N Hedges & Saundersfoot v Milford United
Newport Tigers v Angle
St Ishmaels II v Milford Athletic
DIVISION 5
Cosheston II v Broad Haven II
Hundleton v Narberth II
Johnston II v Letterston II
Manorbier United v Milford Athletic II
Pembroke Boro II v Herbrandston II
St Clears II v Lawrenny II
IN THE ongoing Rugby World Cup, all 20 teams have now had their shot on the field, shedding light on potential contenders for the coveted trophy in October.
Here’s a comprehensive summary of the recent action, divided by pools:
Pool A: The tournament started with Uruguay facing off against the formidable hosts, France. Despite the 27-12 scoreline, the match was a much closer affair than it might suggest. Uruguay held their own until the 73rd minute, trailing by just eight points, showing resilience against one of the tournament favorites.
Meanwhile, Friday night featured a showdown between New Zealand and Namibia, both hunting for their first group stage victory. The All Blacks, stung by an earlier loss to France, came roaring back with an impressive 71-3 triumph, positioning themselves second in Pool A, trailing France by three points.
Pool B: Ireland, after a convincing win over Romania, continued to assert their dominance,
steamrolling Tonga 5916. With just two games played, Ireland boasts an astounding points difference of +117, establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with.
In another Pool B match, South Africa handed Romania a crushing 76-0 defeat, marking only the 15th instance in Rugby World Cup history that a team failed to score in an 80-minute match.
Pool C: Portugal, making only their second-ever World Cup appearance, faced a formidable Wales side and fell short with a scoreline of 28-8. Wales, joining Ireland, remains one of the two teams to secure maximum points in the group stage. Portugal, however, continues to search for their first World Cup win.
The weekend witnessed an astonishing upset as Fiji stunned Australia with a 22-15 victory. This win propelled Fiji to second place in Pool C, with Georgia and Portugal remaining on their schedule. If Fiji can secure wins and score four or more tries in each upcoming game, they could secure a spot in the
quarter-finals.
Pool D: Samoa has positioned themselves as potential quarter-final contenders after defeating Chile 43-10, leapfrogging Japan for second place in the group, despite playing one game less. Samoa hasn’t reached the quarter-finals since 1995, and they aim to go even further this time.
England secured a 34-12 victory over Japan, maintaining their lead in Pool D. Although not the most convincing performance, England accumulated five points, establishing a four-point lead at the top of the group. Key tries from Lewis Ludlam, Courtney Lawes, Freddie Steward, and Joe Marchant helped secure the win.
WALES emerged victorious with a 28-8 win over a spirited Portugal side in a Pool C clash at the Rugby World Cup. Despite a rocky start and numerous challenges, the Welsh team managed to secure a crucial bonuspoint victory, marking their second win of the tournament.
The first half of the game was marked by Wales struggling to find their rhythm. Their early difficulties were compounded by Johnny Williams being sent to the sin-bin, leaving them a player short. Meanwhile, Portugal’s efforts in the first half were limited to a single penalty kicked by Samuel Marques. However, as the half wore on, Wales managed to regain their composure and assert their dominance.
Two significant moments turned the tide in Wales’ favor before the halftime whistle. First, Louis Rees-Zammit scored a try following a clever pass from Jac Morgan. This try came during a counterattack, which was an essential momentum-shifter for Wales. Secondly, Dewi
securing a bonus-point victory but were denied a try-scoring opportunity in the closing stages when Gareth Davies’ try was disallowed due to obstruction. However, Taulupe Faletau sealed the bonus-point win with a try deep into injury time, ensuring that all four tries were converted by the reliable Leigh Halfpenny.
IN THE WAKE of Fiji’s stunning victory over Australia, the upcoming match between Wales and Australia in Pool C of the Rugby World Cup has taken on immense significance.
Gatland’s record of reaching the knockout phase in every World Cup campaign he has overseen with Wales.
Lake, who was captaining the side for the day, powered his way over the try line from close range after tapping and going from a penalty, extending Wales’ lead to 14-3 at halftime.
Portugal, in their first World Cup appearance since 2007, displayed commendable resilience.
Nicolas Martins managed to break through Wales’ defense and score a try in the second half, bringing Portugal back into the game. However, Wales remained unyielding.
In the second half, Jac Morgan’s try was a pivotal moment for Wales. The forward pack, which had undergone several changes early in the match, started to assert
dominance, and Morgan capitalized on a period of sustained pressure to score Wales’ third try, which was converted.
Despite facing Wales’ resurgent attack, Portugal continued to play an effervescent and attacking style of rugby. They were rewarded when Nicolas Martins scored their second try, sparking celebrations among his teammates and coaching staff.
Unfortunately for Portugal, their spirited efforts were marred by a late red card shown to Vincent Pinto for a dangerous play, which significantly hampered their chances of a late comeback.
Wales, at times, seemed on the verge of
After the match, Warren Gatland, the head coach of Wales, reflected on the performance, saying, “It wasn’t pretty, but we got the job done in the end.” He acknowledged that some players appeared rusty due to the numerous changes in the lineup but emphasized the importance of the win. Gatland also had high praise for Portugal, saying, “I have got to give full credit to Portugal, I thought they were brilliant. They really brought that physicality and tested us [on Saturday].”
With this hard-fought victory, Wales now turns its attention to a crucial match against Australia in Pool C. Meanwhile, Portugal faces a challenging encounter with Georgia in their next game.
With Wales currently perched at the top of the pool, a win in this fixture, along with their upcoming clash against Georgia, will secure their spot in the quarter-finals. Even a single loss or draw won’t necessarily dash their hopes of progression.
However, the situation becomes precarious for Wales if Australia manages to secure a bonus-point win while Wales fails to pick up a bonus point (for either scoring four tries or losing by less than seven points).
In that case, Wales will find themselves dependent on the outcomes of the final round of pool games.
Taulupe Faletau says Wales are growing in confidence as they close in on a place in the quarter-finals, and a continuation of Warren
“With the work we have done we are very confident in the group of what we can do,” number eight Faletau said.
“That is our approach going forward with each game - knowing the work we have put in and backing that.
“The togetherness we have built in that time together will put us in good stead.”
Faletau added: “We have got to concentrate on ourselves. There will be a lot to work on from the Portugal game and we will look to make those improvements going into Australia.
“With the time we have had together there is definitely belief within the group. In each game we believe we can get a result against any team on the day.
“We will take confidence from the two wins, but there is definitely plenty to work on going into Australia.”
