The Pembrokeshire Herald 24/11/2023

Teenager Jai died from misadventure, coroner rules

PEMBROKESHIRE

Coroners Court has declared the death of 13-year-old Jai Palermo as a result of misadventure.

The teenager was tragically found deceased in a field near his residence in the early hours of January 23, 2020, an event that has deeply affected the local community.

Jai, diagnosed with ADHD at the age of six, was under medication for his condition and insomnia. According to family accounts, he was in a positive state of mind the day before his disappearance, making plans for the near future.

The sequence of events leading to the tragedy began on the evening of January 22.

Due to a mixup concerning his whereabouts for the night, Jai was reported missing around 6:30 PM. His mother, Nia Owen, believed he was with his grandmother, who, in turn, thought he had

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returned home.

A local search ensued, drawing the attention of a police dog handler in the Johnston area.

The family was later instructed to go home as the police escalated the situation to a missing person’s report.

An extensive search operation, including HM Coastguard volunteers, commenced at 1:15 AM.

Jai’s body was

discovered at 2:45 AM in a field adjacent to New Road, Hook.

Acting Senior Coroner Paul Bennett has allowed a fortnight for submissions before deciding on the necessity of a Regulation 28 Prevention of Future Deaths Report.

Discussions in the court touched upon the possibility of Jai’s medication inducing suicidal tendencies, a known side effect. However, evidence

suggested he exhibited no such tendencies.

Coroner Bennett, weighing the facts, concluded that Jai’s death was an unintended consequence of his impulsive nature, a symptom of his ADHD.

Mr Bennett said that he did not believe that if the police had found Jai earlier, any attempts at resuscitation would have been successful as they were unable to determine the exact time of death.

Trial opens for man accused of £600k investment fraud

A MAN accused of fraudulently taking more than £600,000 from a number of local investors is currently standing trial at Swansea Crown Court.

Darryl Evans, currently of no fixed abode, is facing 27 charges of fraud by false representation, and one charge of theft.

In opening arguments, the court heard how 60-year-old Evans is accused of taking monies from 27 different claimants to the value of £638,474.06.

The monies fraudulently taken from

alleged victims in the county of Pembrokeshire were either to invest in shares and algorithms or were supposed to short term loans.

The offences date between July 2013 and April 2020.

The charge of theft relates to an incident on January 23, 2020, where Evans is accused of stealing £43,291.54.

The defendant has pleaded not-guilty to all 28 charges.

The case opened at the crown court on Tuesday, November 21. Accused: Darryl Evans

Fined for speeding in BMW

MARTIN EDWARD LANGDON, a 38-year-old resident of Cawdor Close, Haverfordwest, faced consequences for his actions as he was fined £510 and received three penalty points on his license for speeding in his BMW 116D.

On May 5, 2023, Langdon was caught travelling at 39mph in a 30mph zone at the junction with New Road, Aberddulais. The area, known for its busy residential setting and proximity to local schools, necessitates strict adherence to speed limits to ensure public safety.

Langdon chose not to attend the hearing at Cardiff Magistrates Court on November 14. However, he submitted a guilty plea under the Single Justice Procedure, a process used for minor offences where a single magistrate can make a decision based on written evidence.

Magistrates imposed a fine of £300 on Langdon, in addition to costs of £90 and a victim surcharge of £120. The total of £510 must be paid by

December 12 this year. His driving licence was also endorsed with three penalty points. The court took Langdon’s guilty plea into account when imposing the sentence.

Neath Port Talbot, the area where the offence occurred, has seen a significant number of road traffic incidents in recent years, many attributed to speeding. Local authorities have been actively campaigning to raise awareness about the dangers of speeding.

The speeding remains a significant contributor to road accidents and fatalities. According to local police data, [insert local statistics on accidents due to speeding], highlighting the need for stringent enforcement of traffic laws.

While Langdon was unavailable for a direct comment, his representative stated, “Mr. Langdon regrets his actions and fully accepts the court’s decision. He is committed to more responsible driving in the future.”

Watson delivers non-apology

JOYCE WATSON, Labour’s Regional MS for Wales’s largest agricultural area, this week delivered a clarification of controversial remarks she made last week.

During a Senedd debate on the Welsh Government’s failed BTb policy, Ms Watson said farmers with farms subject to repeated BTb breakdowns “need to find another business”.

Her remarks caused an outcry and were criticised by farming unions and others as “ignorant”, “uneducated”, and “insensitive”.

This week, Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies asked the First Minister whether forcing farmers off land was Welsh Government policy.

Joyce Watson has often thrown herself in front of pointed questions for her Labour colleagues, and Mark Drakeford returned the favour.

He explained his backbench colleague’s eagerness to express herself and the shortness of time available for her to do so during the debate meant she’d inadvertently said something she didn’t mean to say.

He denied - against all available evidence - that his Government wanted to cut farming in Wales.

The opportunity for Ms Watson to clarify her words came later the same day.

Anyone expecting repentance or an apology was still looking for one by the time she finished.

During business

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questions to the Welsh Government’s business manager, Lesley Griffiths MS, she said: “I was clumsy, and I didn’t express myself terribly well. I’m sorry for any upset that caused.

“I should have been clearer that I was talking about farms that TB and the ongoing pressures of the current system have continuously impacted.

“I know that the cycle of having to test, cull, and start all over again causes huge stress.

“In those cases, I think there should be a conversation about how that situation can be resolved or improved, and diversification

should be part of that.

“So, I would appreciate an update on Welsh government support for farmers looking for help doing that.”

That slightly expands her original comment but maintains its underlying thrust: farmers quitting farming. The extent of her clarification runs only to establishing whether the Welsh Government will help them do so.

As one Pembrokeshire farmer put it: “She apologises for her lack of clarity but still endorses her idea of livestock farmers suffering with continuous TB problems to get out of livestock farming or diversify.

“She stands by what

she said last week, then!”

Joyce Watson was born and brought up in Pembrokeshire. She has represented Wales’s largest farming region since 2007 and previously led the Labour group in Pembrokeshire County Council.

Her insensitivity to local families and businesses raises how engaged she is with issues affecting them. It tangentially questions how accountable Regional MSs are and the lack of MSs’ future accountability once the Welsh Government abolishes any link between the elected and the electorate.

Joyce Watson: Clarified her words by repeating them

Allegedly set fire to own council house

A HAVERFORDWEST man is scheduled to appear at Swansea Crown Court on Monday, December 4, arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered, two counts of common assault against an emergency worker, and affray.

It is alleged that Robert Ward, 56, of Jury Lane, set fire to his own council house following a dispute regarding his forced relocation to an alternative property.

According to the ambulance service, he sustained injuries during the incident, resulting in burns that required treatment at Morriston Hospital. He was transported there by air ambulance.

The severity of the fire, and its location near to a primary school necessitated the response of crews from four fire stations.

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Luckily the school day had just finished when the fire started.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed on Tuesday (November 21) that Robert Ward has been charged.

A police spokesperson stated, “He appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, November 2, and was remanded in custody to appear at Swansea Crown Court on December 4.”

A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson reported: “We received a call at 4:23 PM on Saturday, October 21, regarding a fire at a property on Jury Lane in Haverfordwest. We dispatched two emergency ambulances to the scene, supported by the Cymru High Acuity

Response Unit and two operations managers. Advanced critical care was provided by the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service in a Wales Air Ambulance helicopter.

One individual was

Ascona wins ‘Best New Forecourt Award’

PEMBROKESHIRE-

BASED Ascona Group is delighted to announce that its brand new Machynlleth Service Station, which was reopened on Thursday, 24th August 2023, has won the ‘Best New Forecourt’ award at the APEA Awards 2023.

In line with Ascona’s strategy to develop the next evolution of roadside retail destinations, the site recently underwent a transformative £3m redevelopment programme, Ascona’s largest investment in Wales to date. The redevelopment

programme expanded the site’s existing Nisa Retail store, which now spans 3,500 sq ft and offers an extended range of products and food-to-go offerings, as well as a extending the car park. The award rewards the best retail fuel installation completed in the last 12 months in the UK and Ireland, with independent experts deliberating over entries that show excellence in various criteria including design, innovation, environmental safety and customer offering.

With several similar

projects scheduled for 2024, Ascona is pleased to be recognised for the success of this project and its focus on redeveloping roadside assets so they provide the best possible service for the nation’s road users and the local community.

Darren Briggs, CEO and Founder of Ascona Group, commented:

“We are thrilled that Machynlleth Service Station has been named the ‘Best New Forecourt’ at the APEA Awards 2023. It is a proud moment for us all as the award reflects the success of our transformative redevelopment programme, our largest investment of this kind in Wales to date.

“As always, my thanks must go to the Ascona team, C+A Design Ltd and Toureen for the hard work put into the site’s redevelopment. In 2024, we will embark on some similar projects as we continue to focus on creating first-class roadside assets that support their local communities and we look forward to working with our partners again.”

transported by road to Morriston Hospital.”

A spokesperson for the Fire Brigade added: “At 4:18 PM on Saturday, October 21, crews from Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, Narberth, and Carmarthen were called

to an incident on Jury Lane, Haverfordwest. The teams responded to a fire in a two-storey, end-ofterrace domestic property measuring approximately 8m x 8m. Six breathing apparatus sets, two hose reel jets, one safety jet were used to extinguish

the fire, and one positive pressure ventilation fan to ventilate the property. Dyfed-Powys Police were also in attendance. The Fire and Rescue Service crews departed the scene at 1:30 AM on Sunday, October 22.”

Inspection finds Withybush A&E in crisis

A REPORT from Healthcare Inspectorate Wales has highlighted the need for “immediate improvement” at Withybush Hospital’s Emergency Department.

The Inspectorate issued its Report on Thursday, November 23, following a three-day inspection in August.

PATIENT SAFETY COMPROMISED

The inspection found issues affecting patient safety, including infection prevention and control.

The issues were made worse by the demand for the Department’s services, which far exceeded its capacity and resources.

The high number of people attending the Department meant some patients’ dignity and privacy were not protected.

Inspectors found patients accommodated in several “surge areas” within the Emergency Department.

A surge area is used when a hospital’s usual areas for accommodating patients have reached the point of over-capacity.

At Withybush A&E, that included patients seated or bedded in open areas of the Department and more than one patient within a cubicle at a time. Inspectors also saw patients waiting for long periods in chairs. At the same time, some beds were located to the side of the open-plan staff station.

The Healthcare Inspectorate said the Board needed to monitor how patients were accommodated within the Department. Months later, as Tom Sinclair’s article shows, the situation remains the same.

IMMEDIATE IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED

Immediate

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improvements were needed concerning infection, prevention, and control processes to minimise patient, staff, and visitor risks.

Inspectors identified several immediate issues requiring the health board to take urgent action. Examples included staff not always wearing the appropriate protective equipment or adhering to infection prevention policies and ineffective cleaning due to overcrowding. Risk assessments were found to be outdated, and checks regarding the availability of lifesaving equipment during an emergency were inconsistent. Although the Department was warm, no blankets or pillows were provided for those patients sleeping in chairs overnight. There was also a lack of toilet and shower facilities for patients.

The Inspectorate’s Report acknowledges the problems caused by the closure of 100 beds at Withybush following the major incident caused by the aged hospital’s crumbling concrete. The

closure of six hospital wards meant patients who would’ve been internally transferred to wards were stuck in A&E.

Despite the shortcomings, Inspectors praised the staff. Patients told them they were happy with aspects of the care and experience. Relatives of those near end-of-life provided positive feedback about caregivers.

For most patients, triaging was timely, and Inspectors noted positive practices in the frailty service and Same Day Emergency Care.

Although patients expressed an understanding of the pressures facing the department, there was frustration about the lack of privacy, dignity, and the availability of information regarding the next steps in their care.

Some staff reported being unable to provide timely care to patients due to the number of patients in the Department and insufficient staffing levels. Examples observed by inspectors included delays in changing dressings,

providing timely assistance with eating, and delays in patients being taken for scans.

The Report highlights a significant issue regarding surgical cover.

The General Surgical Clinical team has been unable to sustain a 24/7 consultant on-call cover at the hospital due to vacancies and staff absences.

Inspectors noted examples of patients who required a transfer from the Department to Bronglais Hospital for surgery due to these circumstances. While this was captured on relevant risk registers and contingency plans were in place, this remains an issue for the department and the wider hospital.

STAFF PRAISED AS PRESSURES RISE

The Report states that - in August - the Board planned to strengthen aspects of the Department in response to the pressures on its services. Workforce plans were under review to increase staffing, skill mix and overall resilience within the service. However, there is a need to move at pace

recent experience. PERMANENT PRESSURE

While writing this article, the Health Board’s homepage carried a message.

“Our Emergency Departments are under extreme pressure. Please: only attend A&E if you have a lifethreatening illness or serious injury.”

As winter approaches, those pressures are expected to get worse. Although some wards’ reopening in December could ease some pressures, chronic staff shortages and lack of resources suggest things will worsen rather than improve.

regarding certain vacant positions to ensure robust management and leadership at all levels within the Department.

The Chief Executive of Healthcare Inspectorate Wales, Alun Jones, said: “There are mounting pressures on NHS services.

“Withybush General Hospital, like all hospitals across Wales, continues to face extraordinary challenges due to increased demand.

“Patient flow is a nationally recognised problem caused by system-wide pressures.

HIW acknowledges the Board is working to manage these challenges.”

Mr Jones praised the medical staff’s commitment in challenging circumstances. However, he also highlighted the need for immediate improvements in aspects of patient care.

He concluded: “We will continue to engage with the health board to ensure progress against our findings.”

Quite how much progress the Board has made can be judged by Herald Editor Tom Sinclair’s account of his

Increased pressures at Wales’s largest hospital, UHW Cardiff, resulted in the declaration of a “black incident” last month when services were overwhelmed over a single weekend. This week, the Welsh Government conceded that pressures on hospital services this winter would likely be at least as bad as last winter’s crisis.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister Russell George MS said: “Outdated risk assessments, ineffective cleaning, infection control issues and inconsistent lifesaving equipment checks are just some of the issues highlighted by this damning report.

“Labour’s handling of RAAC at Withybush Hospital has resulted in capacity issues impacting the delivery of safe care, and a large number of vacancies has precipitated in the unavailability of 24/7 consultant oncall cover, a common theme across our Labour-run Welsh NHS.

“It’s clear that the Labour Welsh Government needs to step up and provide additional support.”

Jon Coles

Morale is rock bottom at Withybush A&E

• Herald Editor’s Tom’s two week stay in hospital

AT THE HERALD

we have written many articles about Withybush Hospital. However, as the editor, I have not had need of its services to much of an extent until last month.

After a trip to East Asia my legs started to swell, and I felt very unwell. After much persuasion from my wife, Nao, I went to the GP - and on seeing my doctor I was rushed into Withybush A&E. I was worried that there would be a long wait, so my Doctor phoned ahead and let me know that I was expected at the hospital and he handed me a note to show reception, and promised that I would be seen straight away.

Famous last words, I’m afraid.

When I arrived at the hospital, hobbling on my swollen legs, I handed in a note hoping that its magical contents would allow me to skip past the twenty or more people patiently waiting to be seen.

“Take a seat and we will get to you soon, the waiting time is about three hours”, I was told by the woman behind the glass.

Not feeling well enough to argue, I sat myself down watching the TV with no sound and awaited my fate.

After two hours my name was called, my blood pressure, weight and a blood sample were taken by a very friendly nurse. She had a quick look at my legs and said that I would need to go back into the waiting room.

Now, it was around 8pm. When I arrived at the hospital it was 6pm I was seen for that initial assessment, but it took until 2am until I was called through into A&E to what I hoped would be a bed. I was desperate to get my legs up as I was in a fair amount of pain. On the way in through

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the double doors I was told by another nurse:

“We’re very sorry, but there are no beds in the department, but we do have a comfy chair for you to sit in.”

I was now sitting in a green plastic covered chair, which the hospital calls a recliner. At least six of these have been placed around the nurses station at the centre of the A&E department to increase the number of patients which can be cared for at any one time. These chairs are supposed to recline - important for me with my legs - but there was no remote control and my chair was not connected to the power supply. Also very annoying was the very loud heart monitoring station which was beeping very loudly. It would not be possible to get any sleep, I thought to myself.

“How many patients are in the department?”, I asked. The healthcare assistant I had flagged down told me it was around 50 people, but the department was designed to take care of 20.

I could see that everyone was run off their feet.

I sat for several hours on the green chair waiting to see what would happen next. I was thirsty as by now it was 5am, I really needed a glass of water as I had been at the hospital for eleven hours and had made no progress. My leg seemed to be getting worse.

Finally two doctors came to see me and gave me an antibiotic tablet. Somehow, probably through exhaustion, I fell asleep, but soon woke up when the staff were changing shifts. This is the busiest time in the department, there seemed to be people everywhere. All I

wanted was to lie down, anywhere, even on the floor.

“Are there any beds or can I lie on a trolley?” I asked.

“Sorry, that is not allowed. We cannot bring trolleys into the department. Let’s see if we can make your chair recline.”

Ten minutes later a male healthcare assistant came to help me recline the chair, but after struggling for a while we realised the chair was broken. I was moved to a different chair.

I very soon saw a tea trolley. It was breakfast time. I was gasping for a drink after 15 hours in the hospital. I finally got one. I was offered some toast and Weetabix but declined as I was feeling sick.

An old man in the recliner near me was having trouble getting up to go to the toilet. He was trying to attract the attention of a nurse, but

had an accident as help came too late. It was not pleasent to witness, but this was only the start of what would be a two week stay in Withybush Hospital.

It was nearly a full two days on the recliner, until I was finally told that I would get a bed.

However, what happened next was not being transferred to a ward as I expected.

I was wheeled into a small room, or cubicle as it is called, designed for one patient. But the rooms are being used for two people due to the lack of space.

There was a divider between me and the other patient who was about a metre away from me.

When the elderly gentleman, also from Milford Haven told a nurse his date of birth, I recognised the date and told him that he was born on the same day that the Japanese torpedoed the USS Indianapolis

during World War II. After that we became ‘cell buddies’ and I kept him hydrated with plenty of squash and Quality Streets that had been dropped in to reception earlier that day by a friend.

It was cramped but at least I cloud lie flat, and my stay was only 24 hours before I was moved to yet another cubicle. The same setup but an ever smaller room where I stayed for two nights.

I was then told I was going to a ward, it was called the “Abulatory Care Unit” I thought the name was strange as I was unable to walk, and when I got there I realised it was a treatment room designed for chairs with curtains around them, but they had been swapped for beds. Of course the room was too small and my bed was only fifteen inches from the man next to me. This could obviously be a huge issue for infection

control let alone privacy. I had now been in the hospital for four days with my swollen and infected legs and by now was on an antibiotic drip. What the exact cause of my medical problem had not yet been discovered, but it was decided that I should be put in my own room and barrier-nursed in case I infected others. A bit late, I thought as I had already been in close contact with a number of patients and staff. I spent nearly two weeks in hospital in all. The staff were hard working and friendly, but there were not enough of them - especially on night shifts. I was told by several staff that they felt the level of care was becomnig “dangerous” that the morale of the staff working was low, and that everyone was under pressure. In short, there are very good people being let down by a very bad system.

Ambulatory Ward: Beds close together

Autumn Statement prepares for 2024 election

WHAT THE CHANCELLOR ANNOUNCED

FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES

A cut in the rate at which employees pay National Insurance. The rate will be cut by 1/6th from 12% to 10%. The cut will come in from January 6.

The National Living Wage increased from £10.42 to £11.44 per hour. The rate will increase in April 2024.

The state old age pension will rise 8.5% from April next year. The increase will be £17.35 per week, and the pension will be increased to £221.30 per week.

Most welfare benefits will increase by 6.7% starting April next year, making the average family on Universal Credit better off by an average of £470 a year.

AN ELECTION is coming.

FOR BUSINESSES

Retail, hospitality, and leisure business owners (including those who run pubs, cafés, and high street shops) will benefit from business rate relief of up to 75 per cent for another year to April 2025.

The Chancellor has scrapped the flat rate of Class 2 NI contributions for the self-employed. Class 4 NI contributions were cut to 8% from April 2024.

The business rate multiplier (which decides how much businesses pay) was frozen for another year.

The Chancellor extended “full expensing”, allowing businesses to claim full tax relief for spending on plant and equipment in the year the expenditure arises.

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If you didn’t know one was due before Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement, you know it now.

From the Conservative side, the tough love had worked. Inflation is down, and revenues are up. “Hardworking families” and pensioners caught a break.

From the Labour side, the Chancellor “lifted the lid on 13 years of economic failure” and “laid bare the full scale of the damage this Government has done to our economy over 13 years.”

WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?

Superficially, the Chancellor’s announcements combine tax cuts for businesses and individuals: increasing tax reliefs for the former and releasing more money in benefits, pensions or wage packets for the latter.

That was the impression the Chancellor and other Conservative politicians wanted to push after the Autumn Statement. The devil is, however, in the detail and perception.

One of the reasons the Chancellor cut employees’ NI from January is to get people used to having a little more money in their wage packets before an election. The downside is that the threshold at which people pay National Insurance will remain static, as will income tax thresholds. Freezing the NI and income tax thresholds represents a not-very stealthy hike.

That means the ratchet effect of inflation, especially food inflation and high energy bills, will probably not result in much of a pre-election feel-good factor.

For businesses, the opportunities to invest to grow are offset by massively increased costs. Businesses are

not immune from the high energy price and the knock-on effect on supply chain costs for raw and processed materials.

While inflation is falling, that does not mean prices are falling. It means the rate at which prices are rising is falling. Rising prices are still higher prices. How inflation works means the last eighteen months’ relatively high price rises are already locked into future - lower and slower - price increases.

THE POLITICAL DIMENSION

Every Autumn Statement and its following Budget are always political events.

Intellectually dominant Chancellors - for example, Lawson and Brown - set the tone for government. Shrewd Chancellors - like Kenneth Clarke or Roy Jenkins - skilfully surf the economic tide.

Managerial Chancellors lack ideological steel and the deftness of touch to avoid carrying the can.

The last few Conservative Chancellors have been managers. From Phillip Hammond to Jeremy Hunt, they have tried to politically manage the Treasury with what can only be described as mixed results. Ignoring the brainstorm of the Truss Premiership, you’d be hard-pressed to find a fag paper between the approaches of any of them.

Talking about wanting to lower taxes and kickstart the economy is not the same as doing either.

Since George Osborne, no Chancellor has put their stamp on the Treasury. His successors’ collective failure to realise any coherent economic plan or fiscal programme is chiefly due to the chaos and paralysis of

Brexit and how it broke parliamentary discipline.

On its own, resolving the political and economic fallout from Brexit would’ve been bad enough. Combined with Covid, foreign wars, and global economic uncertainty, the UK economy shrank and stagnated.

Economic growth has been dire for fifteen years or more. Trying to manage the economy by cutting public spending means the UK’s infrastructure and public services are basket cases.

The UK is taxed heavier than ever and loaded with debt at a level not seen since the end of the Second World War. Thanks to Liz Truss, Kwasi Kwarteng and the assorted dingbats who supported them, that debt will also cost future generations more to pay off.

For Labour, all of this should be an open

goal. But it’s far from straightforward.

Labour must either raise taxes or borrow more money to rebuild public services. The fantasy that economic growth will pay for public services’ regeneration is just that: fantasy.

The Conservative Party’s best hope is that having sown the wind, an incoming Labour administration reaps the whirlwind.

Keir Starmer is being cautious about making promises for good reason. It’s not an electoral miracle he needs; it’s an economic one.

POLITICAL REACTION

You can just take your pick according to your preferred flavour.

Labour matched the Conservatives’ loud hosannas with equally loud boos.

The Welsh Conservative Shadow

Finance Minister, Peter Fox, said: “The Conservative Chancellor delivered good news during his Autumn Statement: inflation halved, a recession averted and substantial funding for worthwhile projects here in Wales.

“That starkly contrasts with Labour’s underfunding of our Welsh NHS in favour of their pet projects, like sending 36 more politicians to Cardiff Bay.”

That’s trite and predictable.

However, Welsh Labour Finance Minister Rebecca Evans had a go at topping it: “The high-tax, low-spending Chancellor has not provided the urgently needed lifeline for Wales’s public services.

“The Chancellor has failed to recognise the increasing pressures on public services both here in Wales and across the UK, which

means there will be more incredibly difficult decisions ahead.”

You’d think being in government didn’t involve making difficult decisions.

BUSINESSES WELCOME STATEMENT

Paul Butterworth, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce for Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid is pleased that the Chancellor has listened to calls to help businesses tackle the current economic challenges by offering solutions to the ongoing investment problem, and welcomes the remedies of providing some certainty for companies wanting to invest.

“Businesses in Wales would have been looking to today’s Autumn Statement for

a clear strategy and actions to improve long-term growth and boost investment. The Budget is a positive sign that businesses were wanting.”

Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Wales Policy Chair, Ben Francis, said: “The action the Chancellor has taken today responds to both the concerns and ambitions of Wales’ small businesses.

“We welcome the fact that the Chancellor has listened to the calls made by FSB to take action on the scourge of late payments, extend support for businesses in our high streets and provide much-needed help for the selfemployed.

Business rates are one of the most significant single costs facing smaller businesses, and the disproportionate burden of business rates disincentivises

growth among smaller businesses on the high street at a time when revitalising those high streets and reinforcing our communities should be a priority for the Welsh Government.”

Lloyd Powell, head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, said: “With confidence amongst SMEs low, the Chancellor needed to announce a series of measures to boost investment.

The statement includes several positive steps, including simplifying and reducing tax for self-employed individuals, taking action on late payments, and extending business investment incentives.

“There will be additional funding for the Welsh Government via ‘Barnett consequentials’ as a result of some of the announcements. We await the draft Welsh Government Budget to be published in December.”

Rachel Reeves: “Time’s up for Conservatives”, says Shadow Chancellor

Jeremy Hunt: Chancellor gets enthusiastic reception from Sunak

Two arrests for cannabis production and electricity theft following

POLICE have confirmed that two men have been arrested and charged with production of cannabis and abstracting electricity following a police raid on a Pembrokeshire industrial estate uncovered a ‘large number’ of cannabis plants.

As The Herald first reported, police executed a search warrant at Honeyborough Industrial Estate, Neyland, on Friday (Nov 17).

In a statement, officers confirmed that a large number of cannabis plants were found in a unit on the estate and that two men, aged 42 and 35, were arrested and charged with production of cannabis and abstracting electricity.

A spokesperson from Dyfed-Powys Police told The Pembrokeshire Herald said: “Two men, aged 42 and 35, were arrested and charged with production of cannabis and abstracting electricity.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

“A search warrant was conducted at Honeyborough Industrial Estate, Neyland, Milford Haven, on November, 17.

“A large number of cannabis plants were found in the unit. Police to continue to hold the premises whilst the investigation continues.”

Anyone with information that could help officers with their investigation is asked to report it to DyfedPowys Police, either online at: https://bit.ly/ DPPContactOnline, by emailing 101@dyfedpowys.police.uk, or by calling 101.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the nonemergency number on 07811 311 908.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

Police appeal following theft of machine

POLICE in Haverfordwest are investigating a report of the theft of a telehandler (pictured) which was stolen from a layby on the Old Hakin Road sometime between 5pm on Thursday, 16th November and 7am on Friday, 17th November 2023.

Anyone with information that could help officers with their investigation is asked to report it to DyfedPowys Police, either online at: https://bit.ly/ DPPContactOnline, by emailing 101@dyfedpowys.pnn.police.uk, or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.

Quote reference: DP20231117-034

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

‘Shocking damage’ at museum after thieves strip lead off roof

VOLUNTEERS at Haverfordwest Museum are in a race against time to remove and store valuable artifacts after thoughtless thieves stripped the lead from its building, leaving rain pouring into the 238-year-old structure.

The incident occurred last Wednesday (Nov 8), and it became apparent the following day that something was wrong when rain started dripping through the ceilings. Staff scrambled to move exhibits to the drier ground floor. The historical building, located in Haverfordwest Castle grounds, was built in the 1780s as a prison governor’s residence and is an important part of Pembrokeshire’s history.

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Water is still leaking through the upstairs ceilings, and one volunteer, Mrs. Evans, believes that the plastic sheeting put on the roof by the county council to keep the rain out was not effective.

Museum curator Simon Hancock told The Herald, “There is shocking damage. We are having to empty the upper floors and place the items in storage.”

The Herald has learned that the police have been informed and will be reviewing CCTV footage soon. Houseto-house inquiries have already been conducted, it was confirmed.

During our reporter’s visit to the museum, which

Archaeologists working within the castle grounds discovered a large amount of lead hidden under tarpaulin. A good twelve wheelbarrows full, The Herald was told. It appears the thieves found more lead than expected and were unable to transport all of it in the vehicle they had. They may have planned to return for the rest but never did.

was closed to the public before the incident due to archaeological work in the castle grounds, many exhibits had been moved downstairs. Buckets and sheeting were in place on the first floor to contain water.

Some larger exhibits, including a butter churn, clocks, and other locally manufactured items, were still awaiting relocation. A significant number of important books also awaited movement.

Three noteworthy items in the collection that have been moved to

safety are ‘Haverfordwest Priory’ by Samuel Prout (c.1835) (a watercolor), ‘Haverfordwest Castle’ by William Pitt (1872), and the charter of freedom of the borough granted to Admiral Horatio Nelson in 1802.

Haverfordwest Town Museum holds a diverse collection of archaeology, photographs, and paintings and is rich in social history artifacts. The Museum opened in 1996 as a registered charity, drawing the core of its collection from the former local authority museum

that closed down in 1994. Several donations and gifts have augmented the collection, and grant aid has led to several significant acquisitions.

The Museum reflects on the 900-year history of Haverfordwest. The collection also records the rich associational civic life (through uniforms and regalia), together with finds from the excavations at the local Augustinian priory.”

Petition praised as WG agrees to Fingerpost junction changes

SENEDDD members

praised the friends of a man who died at the notorious Nash Fingerpost during a debate on Wednesday, November 22.

On Saturday, May 13, Ashley Rogers lost his life at the A477 “Fingerpost” junction while travelling towards Pembroke.

The 29-year-old from Kilgetty died at the scene, leaving behind a devastated fiancé, son and family.

His death marked the third fatality on that stretch of road within the last 12 years.

There have also been innumerable near misses on what is known locally as a “blackspot” for road traffic accidents.

One of Mr Rogers’s friends, Elliot Morrison, organised a petition to the Senedd seeking action to tackle safety. It collected over 10,300 signatures. Over 80 per cent of those signatures came from Pembrokeshire’s two Welsh parliamentary constituencies.

As a result, the Welsh Government has now agreed to carry out muchneeded and long-delayed improvements to the dangerous junction.

Speaking in the Senedd, local MS Sam Kurtz said: “Sadly, this was not the first fatality at this junction. In memory of Ashley and to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again at this junction, his friend Elliott Morrison launched the petition stating, ‘Enough is enough’.

“My predecessor, Angela Burns, raised the issue of Nash Fingerpost on many occasions in this Chamber and was a strong advocate for improvements to be made. Simon Hart MP, too, has campaigned for changes to this junction for over a decade.

“Thanks must also be given to the local county councillor, Tessa Hodgson, for her support for much-needed improvements; to Yvette Weblin-Grimsley, who tirelessly campaigned, helping the petition reach 10,000 signatures;

Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

and to the wider countless other county, town and community councillors and the wider constituents, who lobbied, campaigned and petitioned on the matter and who have written to me to share their concerns.”

Sam Kurtz also praised Senedd Petitions Committee Chair Jack Sargeant, who visited the Nash Fingerpost to learn about its layout and safety issues.

Mr Sargeant told the Senedd: “Some members of the local community are afraid to use the junction in its current state because of the dangers.

On the CCTV the Welsh Government put into place, you could see large vehicles blocking roads. You could see u-turns taking place.”

Mr Sargeant said that when he visited the junction with Sam Kurtz in October, he saw similarly dangerous incidents caused by the road’s layout and driver behaviour.

Plaid Regional MS Cefin Campbell reflected on alarming road traffic incident numbers across West Wales.

He said: “Last year alone, across Pembrokeshire, DyfedPowys Police recorded 231 accidents, with 99 people either killed or seriously injured.

“Only about half an hour away from Nash, on the A40 between Carmarthen and St Clears, 359 accidents occurred between 2010 and 2019, again resulting in deaths and lifechanging injuries.”

Preseli MS Paul Davies said: “Some of you will have also seen the Motorcycle Action Group’s video, which shows just how dangerous the junction is.

“The video shows vehicles pulling out of the junction and waiting across the actual carriageway, which then forces the oncoming traffic to slow down or stop, and it also showed

long queues of traffic waiting on the A4075 approach and cars in the central waiting area. Therefore, a permanent solution must be found to make the junction as safe as possible.”

Welsh Government Minister Julie James responded to the debate.

She said: “At this junction, we’ve already laid new road markings, which highlight ‘Araf’ or ‘Slow’. We’ve erected road safety signs and begun improvements to junction signage.

“We have informed local stakeholders that we’re implementing a temporary new 40 mph speed limit and a no u-turn order at this junction ahead of the permanent order process.

“Regarding the timescale for installing the traffic signals, we intend to start this financial year.

“It requires the laying of cabling induction before the main civil works. That depends on some thirdparty engagement with National Grid and land ownership issues, but we intend to get them in this financial year.”

On calls for a roundabout, the subject of another petition launched this month, the Minister said: “We will, of course,

consider a roundabout.

That will be subject to the outcome and review of the measures that have

already been put in place.

“A roundabout would take a considerable amount of time to put in place - at least three years - even if the land was all within our highway boundary.”

Safety can’t wait: Sam Kurtz with Senedd Committee Chair Jack Sargeant at lethal junction

Jail for ‘deluded and ill-tempered’ driver

A DRIVER who killed a man walking near his home, robbing his family of a ‘devoted husband, father and tadcu’, has been jailed.

Barry Thomas, aged 73, was found to have been driving too close to the car in front of him, not allowing enough time to react when passing pedestrian Brian Guest on the B4317 near Ffos Las.

He convicted of causing the 61-yearold’s death at Swansea Crown Court last month, and was sentenced on Friday, November 17.

The court heard that Thomas was driving his black Mercedes on January 23, 2022, when he swerved into the nearside verge. As he did, he collided with Mr Guest, who was walking home. The 61-year-old suffered catastrophic injuries and died in hospital in the company

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of his loved ones.

Thomas denied that his driving was dangerous, attempting to shift the blame onto an innocent driver who he also collided with.

But evidence was given by the driver of the car in front of Thomas, proving the defendant was too close. The witness told he court he had seen Mr Guest walking towards him on his nearside, and that he had moved towards the middle of the road to give him space.

As he did so, he saw Thomas’s car alongside the passenger side of his vehicle, before it collided with Mr Guest.

Dyfed-Powys Police officer in case Sergeant Sara John said: “What made this incident even more heart-breaking was that Mr Guest’s wife heard a disturbance

outside their home and went outside to find out what was going on.

“She then realised that her husband had been struck by a car and was seriously injured. Despite seeing the devastation he had caused, the defendant still denied that his actions amounted to dangerous driving.”

In a victim impact statement, Mr Guest’s wife spoke directly told the defendant, saying: “You used your car as a weapon that day, a weapon that killed Brian. Your actions that day were avoidable, and you have shown no remorse for your actions. We no longer have our normal lives.”

Mr Guest’s family later added: “The defendant has destroyed our lives, stolen our future with Brian, and robbed us of a wonderful, devoted husband, father and tadcu.”

Thomas, of Garden Suburbs in Kidwelly, was sentenced to eight years in prison, with a 10 year driving ban.

On sentencing,

HHJ Geraint Walters described Thomas as ‘deluded and an illtempered driver’. He added: “Your impatience on the day took the life of a healthy 61-yearold

and grandfather who should have seen them grow up. You have left the family devastated by your actions.”

man – a loving son, husband, adored father

Alcohol-fueled crime at Christmas highlighted by police

NEARLY 100 alcoholfuelled serious assaults, and more than 1,000 reports of domestic abuse were reported to Dyfed-Powys Police in December alone last year.

The force has released its latest figures as it prepares for an increase in domestic abuse and serious assaults in the lead-up to Christmas.

A social media campaign has been launched, highlighting the devastating impact of these crimes; speaking directly to those living in abusive households to empower them to speak out; and reminding anyone concerned about their behaviour after drinking where they can seek help.

Detective Superintendent Jayne Butler said: “While in past years we have focussed our winter campaign on one crime type, this year we have decided to amplify our messaging around serious assaults where

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alcohol is a factor, as well as domestic abuse, as sadly we see an increase in calls relating to both over the festive season.

“For most people, this time of year is filled with happiness – a time to celebrate with friends and family – and our officers enjoy seeing people out and about enjoying themselves. However, our officers are also likely to see those going through the darkest of times – as they deliver the news that a loved one has been badly assaulted on a night out, or they listen to the victim of domestic abuse explain how their life has been torn apart by someone they trusted.

“We hope that through this campaign we can increase confidence in reporting incidents of domestic abuse, and lessen the number of serious assaults by signposting

to support agencies for those struggling with their behaviour when they’ve been drinking.”

Last December, 1,008 domestic abuse reports were recorded by DyfedPowys Police as the force ran a campaign encouraging people with concerns for themselves or others to speak out.

“We saw an increase in reports in 2022 compared with the previous two Decembers as we made a concerted effort to talk about domestic abuse in a way we haven’t before,” Det Supt Butler said.

“This also resulted in an increase in requests for information through Clare’s Law, which allows people to find out if their partner has a history of domestic abuse. We’ll be sharing these messages again this year to reach people who might need help.”

Between 2015 and 2022* Dyfed-Powys Police has recorded an average of 92 alcoholrelated assaults causing

actual bodily harm and assaults causing grievous bodily harm over the fourweek peak Christmas and New Year season. While these figures dropped dramatically during the Covid-19 epidemic as a result of lockdown and social distancing restrictions, they are now increasing.

There were 79 reports of serious assaults where alcohol was involved during this time in 2022 –three more than in 2019, the last pre-Covid year.

Detective

Superintendent Anthony Evans said: “While we’re not quite up to pre-2020 levels, we are seeing an increase in alcoholrelated serious assaults which is a worrying trend, and one we hope to stop in its tracks. We expect to see more people out enjoying themselves in the evenings and over the weekend as we approach the festive season, which unfortunately does tend to result in more reported assaults.

“It’s undeniable that the number of violent incidents

has a huge impact on police resources, but more importantly, each of these assaults affects the lives of victims and their families. It’s for this reason that we’re asking people to be aware of their behaviour, to seek help if they need to, and if they do find themselves faced with confrontation, to be the bigger person and walk away.”

For more information on how to report domestic abuse, or where to find help, click here: https://bit. ly/DAinformation

McDonald’s applying for premises licence

MCDONALD’S Restaurants Ltd has submitted an application for a new premises licence for its McDonald’s Restaurant located at

Unit G, Haven’s Head Business Park, Milford Haven. The chain has been in the process

of establishing a restaurant at the site formerly occupied by Paul Sartori Furniture. The licence, which is expected to be granted, will permit the serving

of hot food and drinks for consumption both on and off the premises from 11 pm to 5 am, seven days a week. Any objections or representations regarding the application must be submitted in writing by December 4. Submissions can be sent to either licensing@ pembrokeshire.gov.uk or the Lead Licensing Officer, Public Protection Division, County Hall, Haverfordwest, SA61 1TP.

The complete application can be viewed during regular business hours at County Hall, Haverfordwest, by prior arrangement, or online at www.pembrokeshire. gov.uk/licensing

Community backs spectacular Giant Lantern Parade

CARDIGAN Giant Lantern Parade brought to you by Small World Theatre, will be held on Friday 8 December at 7pm, supported by Cardigan Town Council, Leafed Through community bookshop, Ceredigion County Council and an amazing public fundraising appeal. With great delight, a spokesperson for Small World Theatre

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announced that they have reached their fundraising target. A public campaign to raise £2,000 to cover the cost of lantern making materials began in October. “Over 80 donations from local people have ensured that lantern making workshops were free in November. We will

continue lantern making with pupils from Ysgol Gynradd Aberteifi and Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi to add more spectacle to the parade.”

Cardigan Giant Lantern Parade is a ‘Fanastical Beasts’ theme this year. Visitors can expect to see familiar and mythological creatures made into giant lantern structures, as well as hundreds of smaller pyramid lanterns.

MIKE EDWARDS

ELEPHANTS can’t jump.

I know how they feel.

Mind you, it is hard to see how useful jumping would be to an elephant.

If you’re the world’s largest land mammal, armed with tusks, a thick hide, and the ability to stomp the New Forest into submission, pouncing on lions is probably unnecessary.

However, if you’re a lion ambushed successfully by a predatory elephant, you’ve probably already got the elbow from the pride.

I jumped last week. The results were predictable. A sickening crunch followed the sound of something going twang.

Now I have my foot elevated on a pouffe while strong medicaments ease my pain and reduce the swelling.

As ever, my beloved had a hand in my misfortune.

We took Mitzi for a walk. The hound refused to return when called. I clambered onto a wall to look for it. The next thing I knew, there was a series of interesting sound effects as I slipped, screamed, and landed awkwardly with my right foot at an odd angle while my backside landed in sheep shit.

I can’t recall which I yelled about most. My favourite corduroy trousers were ruined, but I only have one right foot.

Before then, things were looking up.

Last Wednesday, I had a day off from tweaking others’ taxes.

As a special treat, we decided to go to Fishguard to make ourselves feel better about our life choices.

laughing and joking all of the live-long day, and you can’t help but wonder how it came to be known as Cape Dismal.

In the town square, the Pied Piper was tootling away on his flute, charming the rats and leading them to a fate worse than death (Dinas).

Meanwhile, the representatives of the Lollipop Guild danced around a ruined wooden shack with a pair of feet wearing ruby slippers sticking out from underneath.

It lifts the heart.

Phew! This Tramadol has a kick.

As I was saying, when you’re depressed or upset with things, Fishguard is always a good place to visit.

It reminds you how lucky you are not to live in Fishguard.

Every year, the town hosts the Eurovision Despair Contest. Or perhaps it’s a folk music festival. It amounts to the same thing after the umpteenth bad take on “All Around My Hat”. If Snow White and the Seven Dwarves lived in Fishguard, the funsized septet would mine the gutters for cigarette butts to dry while gulls divebombed Snow White to steal her tray of kebab meat.

The Parade will leave Pendre at 7pm accompanied by musicians. It will process along the High Street and into the grounds of Cardigan Castle, where there will be fire jugglers, delicious food and drink supplied by Kitchen 1176, and a fireworks display around 8pm.

Further details can be found on Small World Theatre’s website and social media.

When you’re depressed or upset with things, Fishguard is always a good place to visit.

You look at the happy people there,

Armed guards roam the borders with Goodwick to stop refugees from leaving. Border Control Officers probe under the lorries landing from Ireland to ensure Fishguardians don’t escape into the rest of Pembrokeshire. Searchlights crisscross the roads in and out to preserve containment and prevent a zombie apocalypse. It lifts the heart. Or perhaps that’s the Tramadol kicking in again. On reflection, though, probably not.

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Protect yourself with a COVID-19 vaccine

Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) has opened its vaccination centres across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire for eligible people to drop-in to receive their COVID-19 vaccine, no appointment needed.

With added winter pressures on the NHS, it is more important than ever that those who are eligible to get vaccinated to help prevent them becoming seriously unwell and protect the NHS this winter.

Older people and those with underlying medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer or chronic respiratory disease are more likely to develop serious illness and require hospital treatment if they catch COVID-19.

Eligible people aged 12 and above can dropin between now and

Christmas, however, the health board is asking anyone with an appointment already booked with their GP or community pharmacy to keep this wherever possible.

If you also require a flu vaccine, the health board will also offer this

to you when you dropin if you don’t have an upcoming appointment to receive this from your GP, community pharmacy or school nursing team.

Dr Ardiana Gjini, Director of Public Health at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “Since September,

the Health Hoard, GPs and community pharmacies have invited eligible Hywel Dda UHB residents to receive their vaccines. If you haven’t had a chance to get your vaccine yet, now is the time to act.

“With colder weather and gatherings at

Christmas with our older and clinically vulnerable nearest and dearest, being vaccinated or supporting your loved ones to get the vaccine is the best present you can give.

“Vaccines teach your immune system how to protect you from diseases. It’s much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and attempting to treat them.

“If you have any questions about the vaccine or your eligibility, please do not hesitate to contact the health board on 0300 303 8322 or by emailing ask.hdd@ wales.nhs.uk and we’ll be happy to advise you.”

You are eligible for a COVID-19 autumn booster vaccination if you are:

• aged six months to 64 years in clinical risk groups

• someone with a learning disability

• aged 65 years and older

• pregnant

• living in a care home for older adults

• aged 12-64 who lives with someone who has a weakened immune system

• a carer aged 16 and over

• A frontline health worker or social care worker

• working in care homes for older adults

Please note the following drop-in sessions are for people aged 12 and over. If you or a family member is under 12 and is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine, please contact your GP practice or alternatively contact the health board on 0300 303 8322 or email ask.hdd@wales. nhs.uk.

Four missing teenagers found dead following tragic car accident

GARREGG, a small village near Snowdonia, is in shock, following the harrowing discovery of four teenagers from Shrewsbury, who were found deceased in a tragic car accident.

Jevon Hirst, Harvey Owen, Wilf Henderson, and Hugo Morris, aged between 16 and 18, had embarked on what was meant to be an exciting camping trip.

Local Plaid Cymru Councillor June Jones expressed the community’s grief.

“There’s disbelief here. Our thoughts are with the family,” she remarked, having initially hoped the boys had merely been camping out of mobile range. The accident site, located on a winding section of the A4085 between Garreg and Beddgelert, drew a significant emergency response, including air and land ambulances, police cars, and

investigation teams.

Despite the sunny conditions on Tuesday, the preceding days had seen grim weather, with high river levels and poor traveling conditions.

Ann Hodgkins, living near the accident site, initially assumed the early morning helicopter activity was related to a lost hiker. However, the reality was far more tragic.

“It’s so sad. So young,” she lamented, reflecting on the treacherous road conditions that may have led to the accident.

The area, a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, offers hiking, climbing, and mountain biking opportunities. Cnicht peak, looming over Garreg, adds to the allure, with its striking Matterhorn-like profile. But this allure turned fatal for the four teenagers, whose journey ended in a catastrophic car crash.

The police investigation is ongoing, with no clear timeline yet provided regarding the report of the missing teenagers and

subsequent actions taken. The tragic incident draws parallels to a similar catastrophe in Cardiff during the summer, heightening the sense of loss and urgency in understanding such accidents.

The Shrewsbury Colleges Group and the boys’ former school, Meole Brace, have expressed their deepest condolences, highlighting the impact of this tragedy on the educational community. The school has initiated support measures for students and staff affected by the accident.

Local residents, authorities, and politicians, including MP Liz Saville Roberts and Senedd member Mabon ap Gwynfor, have echoed the sentiments of shock and heartbreak, emphasizing the unpredictable and often perilous nature of the region’s terrain and weather.

TRAGIC ACCIDENT

Jevon Hirst, Harvey Owen, Wilf Henderson, and Hugo Morris, all college students aged between 16 and 18 from Shrewsbury, embarked on a journey to Snowdonia over the weekend. Their last confirmed sighting was on Sunday morning, driving a silver Ford Fiesta. Concerns escalated when they did not return home as planned on Monday, prompting their families to alert the authorities.

The unfortunate discovery was made on Tuesday morning, following a tip from a public member. About five miles from their last known location in Porthmadog, the police found the car overturned and partially submerged. Supt Owain Llewellyn of North Wales Police described the incident as a “tragic accident” and extended deep condolences to the bereaved families and friends. The extensive search operation involved various agencies and volunteers, all sharing the profound grief of this unexpected outcome.

The teenagers, one 16-year-old and three aged 17 and 18, traveled to Harlech, Gwynedd, on Saturday, planning to camp in the Snowdonia region on Sunday.

In an emotional tribute on Instagram, Wilf’s girlfriend, Maddi, remembered him as the “sweetest and most loving boy,” expressing her unending love and the void his absence has created in her life.

Harvey Owen’s mother, Crystal Owen, in a statement, revealed their last known phone activity was around midday on Sunday. She expressed her anguish, stating she was unaware of her son’s actual plans, misled by his mention of staying with a friend’s grandfather.

The boys, all A-level students at Shrewsbury Colleges Group, were remembered fondly by their former school, Meole Brace, in Shrewsbury. The school and college extended their deepest condolences and assured support to the affected students and staff.

Tuesday saw a 4-mile stretch of the A4085 between Garreg and Pont Aberglaslyn cordoned off by the police where the car was located. Local residents highlighted the treacherous weather conditions over the weekend, compounded by the road’s steep and narrow nature and scant mobile signal in the area, factors that might have contributed to this tragic incident.

Liz Saville Roberts, the local MP, and Senedd member Mabon ap Gwynfor, in a joint statement, expressed their heartache and solidarity with the families, echoing a sentiment of profound loss that resonates throughout the community.

June Jones, a local councillor, shared with media the initial hope that the boys might have been out of reach due to the lack of mobile signal, a common issue in the area. The reality, however, was far grimmer, with the community now in shock and mourning.

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

North Wales rescue tender near the scene of the tragedy (Image: David Powell)

Racism on the rise in Wales’ schools MSs told

CHILDREN as young as three-years-old are involved in racism, with prejudice on the rise in Wales’ schools, a Senedd committee has been told.

The Senedd’s equality committee took evidence from Race Council Cymru and Cardiff University as part of an inquiry on the Welsh Government’s antiracist Wales action plan.

Uzo Iwobi, founder and chief executive of Race Council Cymru, told MSs that children are increasingly facing racism-fuelled physical and verbal attacks while at school.

She said: “In one week, we had 15 phone calls from schools across Wales narrating different incidences of racism involving children as young as three, which is horrific.”

Prof Iwobi stressed that racism is learned behaviour as she highlighted the need to educate parents as well as pupils.

Prof Iwobi warned that official rates of reporting of hate crime have dropped while contacts with charities, such as Race Council Cymru, have significantly increased.

The barrister and law lecturer told MSs that communities do not have confidence in the police, saying people have reported incidents in the past but nothing has changed.

She recalled a vicious attack on a 14-year-old boy outside school by two white children which parents did not want to report to authorities.

“Many people are beginning to feel like this is everyday racism,” she said. “This happens to us time and time and time again.”

She added: “One of the little girls refused to come to school because she had been told she should live on a tree because her family looked like monkeys or some words to that effect.”

She added that Race Council Cymru was advised to cancel black history celebrations in

Llanelli this year due to the negative reception of asylum seekers.

Prof Iwobi raised concerns about a significant increase in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia due to the Israel-Gaza war.

She told the committee that women wearing Hijabs in particular are increasingly facing hate, citing the example of a Muslim who was egged on the streets of Cardiff last week.

She said community leaders report that Wales is almost no longer a safe place to be Jewish.

Prof Iwobi said: “Sadly,

with the protests ongoing – it has resulted in more targeting against others who are not protesting.

“It is a very frightening experience to be out there involved in community work at this time.”

The committee heard that ethnic minorities are overrepresented in almost every aspect of the criminal justice system.

Prof Iwobi described the prison system as clearly institutionally racist and biased against black men in particular.

She called for an overhaul of the justice system and a roll-out of anti-racism training.

Robert Jones, a lecturer at Cardiff University, highlighted sentencing disparities and a lack of trust in the legal profession during the meeting on Monday November 20.

Raising concerns about the lack of a disaggregated picture for Wales, Dr Jones described the Ministry of Justice as “almost geographically illiterate”.

By contrast, MSs heard that Home Office data – which is broken down by police force –shows disproportionate use of stop and search on black and mixed ethnic groups in Wales.

Dr Jones warned that evidence is lacking:

“Before we even begin to think about tackling the problem, our understanding of the problem still has some way to go.”

He called for investment in research to provide more of an in-depth understanding, saying the Wales Governance Centre is working on a Welsh criminal justice observatory.

In written evidence, Dr Jones described racial disproportionality within criminal justice in Wales as systematic and consistent.

He pointed out that many of the necessary levers to tackle racism are not devolved, raising concerns about the “jagged edge” of the Welsh justice system.

“Wales is unique, it’s an anomalous system,” said Dr Jones.

“It has a legislature and an executive that doesn’t have the justice function – the only common law country in the world to have that anomaly.”

Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter

Launch of Investment Fund for Wales provides £130m boost

THE BRITISH BUSINESS BANK is launching its new £130 million Investment Fund for Wales today (23rd November), unlocking additional funding to help smaller businesses to prosper and thrive.

The fund will drive sustainable economic growth by supporting new and growing businesses across the whole of Wales through investment strategies that best meet the needs of these firms. It includes a range of finance options with loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investments up to £5 million to help small and medium-sized businesses start up, scale up or stay ahead.

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The Bank’s Investment Fund for Wales will be the first solely UK governmentbacked investment fund for smaller businesses in Wales, helping to increase the supply and diversity of early-stage finance by providing options to firms that might otherwise not receive investment. Funding is designed to help businesses with activities including expansion, product or service innovation, new processes, skills development, and capital equipment.

Three fund managers have been appointed to manage the fund.

BCRS Business Loans will manage the smaller loans part of the fund (£25,000 to £100,000), FW Capital will be responsible for larger loans (£100,000 to £2 million) and Foresight will manage equity deals (up to £5 million).

Louis Taylor, Chief Executive of the British Business Bank, said:

“Wales is a nation of innovative smaller businesses. These start-ups, scale-ups and

established businesses often require initial, or further finance, in order to launch, to maintain momentum, or to develop their full potential.

“This fund, which has been designed specifically for Welsh businesses, is intended to further address the challenges of access to finance and to provide opportunities for business talent in Wales to grow, to develop and to thrive.

“Over the past nine years we have supported thousands of Welsh businesses across urban and rural Wales and with the launch of the Investment

Fund for Wales we will be able to go further and deeper, to support hundreds more as they continue to contribute to the ongoing sustainable success of the wider Welsh economy.”

Welsh Secretary David TC Davies said: “I’m delighted to see the UK Government backing this £130m Investment Fund for Wales. We are a nation of entrepreneurs and this fund will provide much needed finance for start-ups to turn their great ideas into a business. The fund will also support smaller businesses who need support to expand and grow.

“This new source

of financing will help the UK Government deliver on our priority of creating jobs and driving prosperity in Wales.”

The Investment Fund for Wales is the fourth in a series of six new Nations and Regions Investment Funds being launched by the British Business Bank and follows the launch of The Investment Fund for Northern Ireland earlier this month, The Investment Fund for Scotland in October and the South West Investment Fund in July. A total of £1.6bn has been committed to the new funds to drive sustainable economic growth and break down barriers in access to finance.

Among the Welsh businesses to already benefit from the British Business Bank’s support is Feral Pig Wines, a wine shop selling locally produced Welsh wine on the grounds of acclaimed boutique hotel, Llys Meddyg in Newport, Pembrokeshire.

The business received a £10,000 Start Up Loan from the British Business Bank in February 2023.

Owner Dave Cushley, a trained sommelier and former restaurant manager at Llys

Meddyg, said: “I simply wouldn’t have been able to secure funding without the British Business Bank. It wouldn’t have been possible for me to start my own business and open the shop.

“The Bank wasn’t only useful in terms of money – the Bank’s mentoring support was invaluable. My mentors offered security and gave me that level of exposure financially, which I wouldn’t have wanted with anyone else. I would have been terrified.”

Following today’s launch, the British Business Bank will be holding a series of information roadshows aimed at people working in the small business finance ecosystem including enterprise agencies, advisers, accountants and more. The first of these will be held in Llandudno on 20 February 2024 with additional sessions held in Aberystwyth, Swansea and Newport later that week. An online version of the session will also take place on 7 December 2023 at 11.00am. To find out more and apply for funding, visit: www. investmentfundwales. co.uk

Paul Davies hosts small business breakfast at the Senedd

LOCAL Senedd

Member Paul Davies has recently hosted a briefing event in partnership with Economic Intelligence Wales and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Wales at the Senedd. The briefing session gave Senedd Members and their staff the opportunity to be updated on the very latest intelligence and information on the economy and current issues impacting small businesses in Wales.

Mr Davies said, “Small businesses are continuing to face several challenges at the moment and so it was important to

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hear from the FSB and Economic Intelligence Wales about some of the ways in which governments here in Wales and in Westminster can better support them. The presentations that we received were excellent and the event gave politicians the opportunity to ask questions about how we can better support businesses in our constituencies and regions.”

“Whilst the Welsh Government doesn’t have macroeconomic levers, it still has some significant economic levers that can help create conditions for

growth in Wales. It was clear that more investment is needed in the skills sector, more needs to

be done to improve access to finance, and there were also calls for more support to help

businesses decarbonise. These are issues that I will continue to raise with the Minister for Economy

and urge the Welsh Government to prioritise this going forward.”

Pembrokeshire College teacher wins national teaching award

DAVID JONES, Learner Transition Co-ordinator of Pembrokeshire College is announced as the gold winner of the Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education in the 2023 Pearson National Teaching Awards on BBC’s The One Show ahead of Saturday’s awards ceremony.

David Jones, Learner Transition Co-ordinator at Pembrokeshire College has been announced as the gold winner of the Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education in the 2023 Pearson National Teaching Awards on BBC’s The One Show. David has been recognised for his unwavering commitment to his students and the wider school community in Pembrokeshire.

David was nominated and selected as the gold award winner from thousands of nominees based on his inspirational teaching, contributions to his school and community, and influence among colleagues, as assessed by judges.

The exciting news was broken to David at one of the College’s touch rugby games, where he and his students were surprised by a special guest –Welsh international rugby player Nicky Smith. Nicky and Kevin Duala from The One Show then

Luke Sinclair Luke@herald.email

announced that David had won the Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education, with two of David’s former students handing him the award.

For over six years, David has passionately served vulnerable learners with diverse needs. He’s on a mission to empower every learner, celebrating their skills, talents, and diversity, reflecting his motto ‘Let us show you what our students can do’. With a wealth of experience, he dedicates

100 hours of his spare time annually to support and coach young adults, including those in the justice system, to shine in competitions. Outside his job, he launched a unique independent living competition which allows learners with complex needs to showcase their talents and gain national recognition for their skills and abilities. He was applauded for his ability to empower students and break down barriers.

During a weeklong celebration (20-24 November) honouring inspirational educators across the country, BBC’s The One Show will announce seven of

16 gold award winners of the Pearson National Teaching Awards to shine a light on their amazing achievements.

This Saturday (25 November), the awards ceremony, known as the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession will be hosted by presenter and radio broadcaster Gaby Roslin.

The Pearson National Teaching Awards is an annual celebration that honours the outstanding achievements of educators. It’s run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity now in its 25th year, and sponsored by Pearson, the world’s leading learning company. These

awards celebrate the transformative impact of education, shining a spotlight on the pivotal roles of teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators and the work they deliver every single day.

Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said: “We all know that a great teacher can enrich your life, can help you rise to the challenge, believe in yourself, find your own voice. I know that because it happened more than once to me. That’s why these Teaching Awards are so important and important to me. Every year, without fail, we see nominations which move and inspire us and this year we have seen stellar examples of life-changing role models for young people. I want to once again congratulate the winners of the 2023 Pearson National Teaching Awards and thank them for the incredible impact they have on our communities.”

Sharon Hague, Managing Director of Schools at Pearson UK, said: “It’s an honour to celebrate and express gratitude to our teachers and the incredible impact they have on our communities. The hard work that goes into teaching and showing

up for students day in and day out cannot be underestimated. Congratulations to all winners and thank you for your continuous efforts.”

Gillian Keegan, Secretary of State for Education, said: “The impact of a teacher on a child’s life can be immeasurable – I know it was for me. I am so grateful to all the staff in our schools and colleges for everything they do. This year marks 25 years of the Teaching Awards Trust, which is a huge landmark. Teachers change lives and we should all feel a sense of gratitude to those we are celebrating today. Thank you again and congratulations.”

Matt Waring, Education and B2B Channel Manager at Logitech, Sponsor of The Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education says: “Educators are at the forefront of student development which is especially impactful in special needs education. They nurture and inspire students daily, instilling confidence as they prepare for the future. We take great pride in our partnership with the Pearson National Teaching Awards and extend heartfelt congratulations to [award recipient] for this welldeserved recognition.”

Western Quayside: Businesses urged to register interest

TIME is running out for any further businesses to register their interest in being part of the initial release of space at the stunning Western Quayside development in Haverfordwest.

There has already been significant interest in the three-storey, riverside building which is due to open in summer 2024 and is a key part of Pembrokeshire County Council’s regeneration of the County Town.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member

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for Place, the Region and Climate Change, said: “We are extremely pleased with the number and calibre of businesses that have already been in touch about Western Quayside.

“It is great that so many businesses share our vision and see the potential for this prime site in the town centre.

“We are rapidly approaching the point that final decisions on tenants need to be made.

“Therefore any

businesses who are interested in taking some space at Western Quayside but have not yet contacted us will need to do so by Thursday November 30th.

“Western Quayside, taken together with the other investments in the town will have a significant positive effect on the vibrancy and footfall of the town in the future.”

For more information on Western Quayside and to register an interest, see: https://www.ejhales. co.uk/properties/westernquayside-bridge-streethaverfordwest/

Shocking claim over Welsh life expectancy

PEOPLE in the poorest parts of Wales die more than six years earlier and the cost-of-living crisis will accelerate health inequalities, Wales’ chief medical officer has warned.

Professor Sir Frank Atherton said the costof-living crisis will widen already increasing health differences between the best and worst off households.

In his 2023 annual report, Sir Frank cautioned that the cost-of-living crisis will have a disproportionate impact on the health of those on the lowest incomes.

Sir Frank said: “People living in the poorest parts of Wales already die more than six years earlier than those in the least deprived areas and spend more years in poorer health.

Sir Frank warned that the cost-of-living crisis could be as damaging as the Covid pandemic, saying: “The cost-of-living crisis has the potential to affect everyone in Wales, but those who were already the worst off are those who are, and will be, hardest hit.

“This is likely to include people on low incomes, homeless people, people living with disabilities, older people, children, and those living in rural areas.

“The cost-of-living crisis will therefore accelerate what were already increasing differences in health between the best off and worse-off households in Wales.”

Calling for an urgent public health response to mitigate the impact of the crisis, Sir Frank said

“Without appropriate action, the effect of the cost-of-living crisis will be to push more people in Wales from just about coping to a state of struggling or crisis, while those who were already the worst off see their situation deteriorate further.”

soaring inflation is having a compounding impact as the whole system is less able to respond to a growing need for health, care and support services.

Latest statistics, for 2018-2020, show that life expectancy at birth for males was 74.1 years in the most deprived areas of Wales compared with 81.6 years in the least.

The data shows that females live for 78.4 years and 84.7 years respectively.

BIG BUSINESS

Sir Frank’s report, Shaping our Health, which was published on Thursday, October 2, also cautioned that big businesses can undermine the nation’s health.

He raised concerns about the food, alcohol and gambling industries marketing unhealthy products by funding education programmes in schools.

More than 60% of the Welsh population and

nearly one in three children starting primary school are overweight or obese.

The chief medical officer recommended that the Welsh Government considers the role of taxes on salt and sugar in future if the industryled pace of change is insufficient.

Sir Frank also urged the Welsh Government to explore legislation to expand the range of smoke-free spaces, starting with outdoor eating areas.

He called for

e-cigarettes to be regulated in a similar way.

CLIMATE CHANGE

Sir Frank warned that climate change is having a profound impact on people’s health, saying it will disproportionately affect the most vulnerable in society.

“Climate changes are not only harming our natural environment,” he said. “But also impacting on our social environment and our personal health.

“The World Health Organisation has stated that climate change is the single biggest health threat facing humanity.” Public Health Wales research showed an average of 98.1 deaths a day in Wales during Met Office extreme heat alerts compared with 84.3 deaths on cooler days.

Sir Frank also raised concerns about socalled green-washing –“a public relations tactic used to make a company or product appear environmentally friendly”.

Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter

Jockey Sean Bowen secures an impressive 100th win

SEAN BOWEN

secured his 100th win in the 2023/24 Jump Jockeys’ Championship today, dashing into an impressive lead as he looks to become Champion Jockey for the first time.

The victory was aboard Booster Bob trained by Olly Murphy, at Uttoxeter.

With the best part of six months of the season still to come, the Welsh rider has created a sizable break on the chasing pack, with a 34-point lead on fellow jockey Harry Cobden who is closely followed by Sam Twiston-Davies and Brian Hughes.

The 26-year-old has caught the attention of racing fans as a future Champion Jockey having enjoyed great success on the Point-to Points as a 16-year-old. The son of Pembrokeshire-based trainer Peter Bowen, Bowen won the 2015 Champion Conditional Jockeys’ title in his first full season as a professional and has since established himself as one of Jump racing’s top riders. His personal-best of 125 winners last season saw him fall 40 short of reigning Champion Jockey Hughes, but he has made a lightning-fast start to this campaign. He could even overhaul last season’s tally before Christmas after a superb summer.

Speaking on 2023/4 Jump Jockeys’ Championship, Bowen told Herald Sport: “Champion Jockey is the main aim for the whole season. I have got a nice lead, which is ideal going into this time of year, but we are only halfway through so hopefully I have got plenty of nice yards to ride for and plenty of nice horses to ride, which will provide me with enough winners from now till the end of April.

Working towards his main goal Bowen has had luck at several tracks and looks forward to some upcoming rides: “I have had a lot of success at Aintree and Sandown, so I

personally love those two tracks. So, I would say the Grand National Meeting and the Bet 365 meeting at Sandown are my two favourite meetings.

There are plenty of nice novices, but you don’t really know until you run them, so the one I am most looking forward to getting back on is Noble Yeats who was a good horse for me last season, winning the grade 2 chase at Aintree and then went on to finish fourth in the Grand National and Gold Cup, so he was one of my best rides last season and I am looking forward to getting back on him again.”

When asked if there was a ride he has his eye on, he said: “I think everyone in the weighing room probably has the

same answer to this question and wants to ride Constitution Hill, he is the horse that everyone would love to ride.”

A partnership with powerful Warwickshire trainer Olly Murphy has been key with the pair sharing 68 successes and it gives him plenty of ammunition going into the main jumps season. Bowen’s father supplied him with more winners over the summer months than any other trainer and the likes of Harry Fry, Martin Keighley, Ryan Potter, Gary Hanmer and even Sir Mark Prescott have all been keen to use his services. Gordon Elliott has also been a big supporter on the Irish trainer’s raids to these shores. Sean’s strength in the saddle and fierce determination gives the chasing pack a massive task if they are to derail his quest to be champion jockey.

Chasing Bowen are Brian Hughes, Harry Cobden and Sam Twiston-Davies. Threetime Champion Jockey and current title holder Hughes spoke to Great British Racing and gave an insight into the season ahead. Hughes acknowledged the struggles that come with the change in weather, along with his hopes moving forward, he said:

“I would like to just get some racing in and try and race some winners to be honest it has been a quiet for a couple of weeks now.

“I like riding Minella Drama, although he is not the easiest customer in the world, but he has got plenty of ability, so I like riding him.”

The pair have had four starts together this year, two of which ended in success at the start

Second on the leaderboard but with high ambitions to make his way to the top is Harry Cobden. At the age of 24 Cobden has topped £2 million in prize money in three of the last five years and has achieved 21 Grade 1 winners.

He is hopeful for the months ahead, with several promising horses to join him on the track, he said:

“My standout would be Bravemansgame. We have got a few good hurdlers this year, Rubaud is quite a good hurdler and is probably going to be going to the Christmas hurdle on Boxing Day, so he would probably be our standout hurdler this year.

We have also got a lovely bunch of Novice chasers, one of the best would be Stay Away Faye, I am looking forward to him. We have some lovely novice hurdlers this year as well, the two stand out ones would be Captain Teague and Inthewaterside.”

Talking goals and the months ahead in the championship Cobden told Great British Racing:

of the year at Kelso and Musselburgh. More recently the Green Day Racing owned horse secured second place at Aintree at the end of October, proving to be a favorable duo.

On his tail is Sam Twiston-Davies who looks forward to the upcoming fixtures, with his personal goals in mind, he said: “I always look forward to the November Cheltenham meetings, which are good fun. I don’t have favorites; I am in a lucky position to ride at a lot of the good meetings and try and enjoy them all.

Getting 100 winners in the season is something I always work towards, but it can be quite tricky.”

With 66 wins on the leaderboard TwistonDavies is already over halfway to achieving his goal for the season which may not be too far-fetched for the 31-year-old jockey.

“I would love to ride 100 winners this season and if I could ride five grade one winners that would be that would be a little bonus!”

He continued: “I am going to try and win the championship, but I am 34 winners behind Sean Bowen, so he is going to be very difficult to catch up. It is a matter of how well I get on between now and the end of the season in sixth months. It is going to be a tough task, and I am going to need a lot of support, but he is definitely the one to beat.”

With similar thoughts to Bowen, Cobden would also like to get a ride on the extraordinary Constitution Hill.

The winner the Jump Jockey Championship will be crowned at Sandown’s bet365 Jump Finale on Saturday 27th April 2024. To follow the Jump Jockey Championship for the rest of the season, visit Championships –Great British Racing

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

Lifelines expected for 22 closure-threatened Pembrokeshire toilets

AT LEAST 22 of the 34 Pembrokeshire public toilets at risk of potential closure are expected be saved, with a further nine due to plead their cases before senior councillors.

Due to financial constraints, the February meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet listed 34 toilets at potential risk of closure if community asset transfers to town and community councils or other sources of funding weren’t agreed.

In May, Cabinet resolved to offer discretionary funding for those under threat of closure to March 2024, where negotiations such as leasing or asset transfer were ongoing.

Members of next week’s Policy and Predecision Overview and Scrutiny Committee, meeting on November 21, will consider a report outlining the latest progress, highlighting “some very positive outcomes which will help to minimise closures”.

The report says an agreement has

been reached with Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, to the value of £111,000 a year for two years, to fund 10 facilities: Angle Beach, Broad Haven North, Freshwater East, Little Haven, Manorbier Beach, Newport Beach, Poppit Sands, St Brides, Saundersfoot, and Solva.

The county council has agreed to fund Dale facilities from its car parking budget, saving some £10,000 from the toilet budget, while a 50 per cent funding offer for two seasons has been made by the National Trust – due to be discussed at the December Cabinet meeting – for Bosherston, offering a saving of £8,000 a year.

The report says that four town/ community councils have agreed to either fund, lease or asset transfer their facilities from April 1, expected to save £25,000 a year, covering Penally, Porthgain,

Tenby Upper Frog Street, and Wisemans Bridge.

Similar conversations are ongoing for seven further facilities, with potential annual savings of £45,000 yearly: Abercastle, Amroth East, Bryn Road St David’s, Cresswell Quay, Kilgetty, Neyland Marina, and Newport

An exception request is due to be considered by Cabinet for the latter, due to complex land ownership arrangements.

Eight exception requests from town and community councils who feel they have been disproportionately financially affected are

also to be considered by Cabinet, with an estimated annual bill of some £72,000.

The eight: Abereiddy, Carew, Cwm Yr Eglwys, Moylegrove, Newgale South, Nolton, North Beach Tenby, and Pwllgwaelod, will close unless the exceptions are agreed, or alternative funding

streams are identified. Legal avenues are being explored for two facilities with a view to close, saving some £9,000 a year: Burton and Oriel Y Parc St David’s, with one facility at Marloes village to close due to no alternative funder coming forward, at a saving of £5,500 a year.

Parrog.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Concern raised as number of Welsh language speakers falls

CONCERNS have been raised by MSs about progress towards the targets of a million Welsh speakers and doubling daily use of the language by 2050.

Jeremy Miles gave a statement to the Senedd to mark publication of an annual report on the Cymraeg 2050 strategy.

The education and Welsh language minister recognised that the latest census showed a decrease, with 538,300 people aged three or older able to speak Welsh in Wales.

He stressed it is important to remember that the census doesn’t measure language use, saying: “The number using our language across the country and beyond … is as important to the vision of Cymraeg 2050 as is the number of speakers. We will not lose sight of that.”

“The Welsh language belongs to us all, and we must take all the necessary steps to sustain progress towards the 2050 targets.”

Mr Miles told the Senedd: “The census results give us a clear indication of the areas we need to focus on in the future.

“There are two standout areas. The drop in the number of five to 15-year-olds able to speak Welsh. This is a reminder that we need to strengthen our approach to teaching Welsh in our Englishmedium schools, as well as expanding Welshmedium education.”

Samuel Kurtz, the Conservatives’ shadow Welsh language minister (pictured), warned: “The number of Welsh speakers increased in the two decades before devolution but the number has declined in the two decades since – we must reverse this decline.

Mr Miles said the second key issue was a decline in traditional Welsh-speaking heartlands.

Mr Miles also pointed to the disparity between census data on one hand and the Welsh Government’s annual population surveys on the other.

Heledd Fychan, Plaid Cymru’s shadow minister, said she does not fully accept the argument.

She told MSs: “The truth of the matter is, in terms of the gauges in Cymraeg 2050 to increase the percentage of year one learners taught through the medium of Welsh, the target is 26 per cent by 2026.

“There’s been a decline from 23.9 per cent in 2021-22 to 23.4 per cent in 2022-23.

“In terms of year seven pupils studying through the medium of Welsh, a decline from 20.1 per cent to 19.3 per cent.

“These are the figures that count in terms of how many are in receipt of Welsh-medium education. So, we can argue whether the census results are accurate or not, but these are the figures in the targets for a million Welsh speakers.”

Mr Miles argued it

is important to analyse the differences between datasets.

During the statement in the Senedd on Tuesday November 14, he said: “Looking ahead, despite the challenges presented by the census results, the narrative around the Welsh language has

certainly changed and there is more support than ever for the language.

“The entire nation was disappointed with the census data, and we must all take hold of that energy and enthusiasm to work together to make a difference for the Welsh language.”

Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter

‘Call-in’ hopes to stop Pembrokeshire Christmas tree collection charge

A CHRISTMAS tree

‘call-in’ to overturn a “mean-spirited” decision to end the free collection of trees after the festive season is due to be heard at Pembrokeshire’s County Hall next week.

At the November meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members backed a proposal to introduce a £5 charge for the collection of real Christmas trees after the festive season, previously identified as a potential cost saving of £10,000.

The council introduced a real Christmas tree collection service – backed by grant funding – in 2016. That funding came to an end in 2020, with the council subsidising the cost, collecting more than 1,800 trees last year.

After making the decision to introduce the charge to save council funds, Cabinet members

heard trees could still be disposed of freeof-charge at any of the council’s six waste and recycling centres.

Aspecial extraordinary services overview and scrutiny committee meeting, taking place on November 20 is to

consider a ‘call-in’ on the Cabinet decision, made by Councillor Huw Murphy, supported by councillors Vanessa Thomas, Anji Tinley, Alan Dennison, Elwyn Morse, Michael James and Iwan Ward.

Western Telegraph: Cllr Huw Murphy’s Christmas tree ‘callin’ was supported by

councillors Vanessa Thomas, Anji

In his submitted callin, Cllr Murphy says: “This call-in has been submitted as it’s felt that the merits of introducing a fee for real Christmas tree collection by PCC needs further debate and scrutiny, which was absent at the Cabinet meeting.”

He adds: “This service most benefits lower income households, and its implementation gives the impression of an authority that is meanspirited at a time of the year when we should be extending goodwill to our residents.”

He warns: “The inevitable consequence of the introduction of a tree collection fee will be more littering and fly tipping of Christmas trees by people who may have no means (transport) to dispose of at a waste recycling centre, where they can still be disposed of for free.

“This will result in more work and cost for PCC in collecting abandoned Christmas trees.”

Cllr Murphy also felt discarded trees may actually result in a danger post-Christmas: “There is an increased risk that Christmas trees previously collected for free may pose a hazard to road and highway

users, through being ‘thrown out,’ more so for pedal and motor cyclists if they were to collide with a Christmas tree that has been blown onto a carriageway, especially in receding light or at night.

“There is a costof-living crisis, with households having to decide how money is spent. The £5 fee to PCC for collecting their Christmas tree will not be a priority post-December 25.”

He also debates the projected cost savings presented to Cabinet, warning there may actually be increased council costs “through the unintended consequence of this policy being introduced”.

Options for the committee include upholding the Cabinet decision, referring the matter back to Cabinet with any concerns raised, or referring the decision to full council.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Llandeilo Antiques and Vintage Fair will be full of festive delights.

IT’S BEGINNING to look a lot like Christmas!

It’s not hard to notice that at this time of year ,the shops and streets are busy getting ready for Christmas .Shop windows are full of sparkle , tinsel and glitter, with Christmas trees adorning the shop floors and a huge array of decorations on display to choose from .Llandeilo Antiques and Vintage fair on Saturday 2nd December will also be full of Christmas of festive cheer.Where better to start your Christmas shopping.There Will an array of antiques and vintage on display to select an individual gift at affordable prices.

If you want to Deck the halls with balls of holly, and while you’re at it, hang up other decorations like wreaths, stockings, lights, and ornaments on a fir tree.,then you’ll find these vintage baubles at the fair.

Santa didn’t come from the North Pole to demand that we make our homes look festive. So where did this tradition of decorating come from?

Historians believe the Romans were the first to decorate for Christmas. Wreaths, gifts, lights in trees, and delicious eggnog were part of a pagan festival known as Saturnalia, which was celebrated in midDecember.

Christmas was first observed in Rome. In order to make the Christian holiday easier to embrace, the church used the same decorations that were common in pagan winter solstice festivals. This included wreaths, trees, and giant feasts.

In Germany, they honored the winter solstice with a festival known as Yule. The fire was thought to encourage the sun to rise after the long, snowy season. It would burn for the 12 days leading to Christmas.

Before we can discuss ornaments, we must first address the modern Christmas tree tradition, which is thought to have originated in 16th century Germany. Here,

small evergreen trees would be decorated with candles, apples, nuts, and berries. They were called “Paradise trees” in church plays.

Soon, devout Christians began to integrate these trees into their homes throughout the holiday season. This tradition became a Christian ritual, and it quickly spread from Germany alone to Europe at large. It took longer to catch on in America where Puritanical religious groups rejected the trees for their historically pagan connotations. Still, small communities of Germanborn settlers continued to carry this practice into the 1700s and 1800s.

In the 1840s, Americans finally began to adopt the tradition after seeing the favorable Queen Victoria and her family (including German-born Prince Albert) celebrating with a Christmas tree.

Retail stores started selling them commercially for the first time, and they’ve been popular in both the UK and United States ever since.

Like the Christmas tree, Christmas ornaments originated in Germany. Hans Greiner began to make glass Christmas ornaments called baubles during the 1800s. These were the first manufactured Christmas ornaments, and they were a huge commercial success. As soon as local businesses saw how much potential commercial success Christmas ornaments had, that was that! By 1935, millions of Christmas ornaments were imported from Germany worldwide. Many of these came from Max Eckhardt, a German immigrant who worked with American glassmakers to sell his new brand, Shiny Brite, at F.W. Woolworth’s.

The space race was on between the United States and the Soviet Union in the late 50s As a result, many Christmas

ornaments were made in shiny metal that looked like spaceships flying through the universe. This was a huge trend throughout the next decade.

Tinsel was first used in Germany in the early 1600s, and surprisingly, it was made from real silver. It didn’t became popular for Christmas tree decorations until the 60s. Tinsel was seen as safer than lights since it was less likely to cause a fire.

The Victorian era also saw the birth of another Christmas tradition – the Christmas Cracker. In 1848, a British confectioner named Tom Smith invented a creative new way to sell sweets. Inspired by a trip to Paris where he discovered bonbons (sugared almonds wrapped in twists of paper), he came up with a simple, yet ingenious idea of a package filled with sweets that snapped when pulled apart. Small gifts and paper hats replaced sweets in the late Victorian period, and this rather wacky tradition remains an essential part

of Christmas to this day.

Today some of these vintage decorations can be highly collectible

There will be many treats awaiting you at the fair from quality jewellery,welsh art ,textiles and pottery, plus small pieces of furniture ,militaria and silver

There will also be attractive displays of gardinalia at the fair and has proved extremely popular including watering cans , wheel barrows ,garden tools and large garden pots and urns.

The Llandeilo fair has a rich cross section of antiques and vintage on display, from jewellery,watches, books, ephemera, vintage clothes and accessories. There will also be collections of glass and up cycled and pre loved furniture, plus interior design pieces. I’m sure visitors will not be disappointed with the selection on offer at this popular festive fair.

Homemade refreshments will be available and doors open at 10 am until 4pm. Admission is just £1 and

Homeowners fear a surge in burglaries, new survey reveals

HOUSEHOLDERS

in Wales fear the challenging financial climate will trigger a rise in burglaries, according to a new survey.

However, only 12% said they will review their home contents insurance despite their worries of burglaries increasing.

Findings by leading insurance broker, Lycetts, also showed that a third have no intention of adding to their home security measures.

“These are difficult times, which is why it’s important that homeowners check they have adequate insurance in place should the worst happen, and they become victims of burglary,” said Lycetts’ insurance expert, Freddie Hamilton-Russell.

“Burglars will often target small, expensive items such as watches and jewellery as they are easy to transport and sell-on swiftly.

“A common mistake is to renew home insurance cover each year without re-calculating the value of possessions, simply giving an ‘educated

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

guess’ of their worth.

“An item’s value for insurance purposes is how much it would cost to buy new, not what it cost when you bought it.

“Getting written, professional valuations is the safest route to being sufficiently insured. Homeowners should make a detailed inventory – item by item, room by room – and be diligent about receipt-keeping for high value items.

“Some possessions, such as expensive jewellery, collectables, family heirlooms, valuable antiques or fine art may need separate specialist cover.”

Despite 88% of homeowners in Wales fearing the challenging financial climate will cause a rise in residential burglaries, the latest Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) revealed a 32% decrease for the year ending June 2023, compared with the precoronavirus year ending March 2020.

In Wales, the number of incidents fell by 10% in June 2023, compared with June 2022, with 6,217 burglaries being reported.

North Wales saw the most significant decrease (-14%), followed by South Wales (-12%), and Gwent (-11%). The only

increase was in DyfedPowys with a 2% rise, which translates into 926 burglaries.

Urging caution, Hamilton-Russell stressed the importance of reviewing policies on a regular basis during unsettled periods, rather than just at annual

renewal.

He also highlighted that it is the policy holder, not the insurer, who is responsible for ensuring sums insured are adequate.

“Those considering amending their policies should always seek specialist advice before

making any decisions.

“There is no guarantee that you will not become a victim of burglary, but doing the utmost to ensure your property and its contents are protected by robust insurance, can at least help mitigate the trauma if you are.”

Pride clean employees rally behind local community

THIS CHRISTMAS, employees at Pride Clean, including Storm Lammin and Rachel Balkwill, are championing a noble cause to support their local community. Katie Finnegan, the proprietor of Pride Clean, expressed immense pride in her team. “During these challenging times, Christmas exacerbates the financial strain on many parents already facing hardship. We believe no child should be deprived of the joy of Christmas. Therefore, we’re wholeheartedly supporting the PATCH Toy Appeal, ensuring our contributions reach the families most in need within our community,” she said.

Finigan continued,

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“The overwhelming response to our appeal has been heartening. We extend our deepest gratitude for the extraordinary kindness and generosity shown so far.” She further added, “For those wishing to contribute, donations can be dropped off at the Greenlink Interconnector, located off Goldborough Road, Pembroke, SA71 5TP, until the December 15. We’ll ensure the items are delivered to PATCH in time for Santa’s distribution.”

Now in its sixteenth year, the appeal by the charity calls for donations of new toys and gifts suitable for a wide age range, from infants to teenagers.

Suggested donations include clothing, books, art supplies, family games, soft toys, wrapping paper, adhesive tape, and Christmas confectioneries with

valid expiry dates.

A spokesperson for PATCH highlighted the critical need: “Numerous families in Pembrokeshire struggle to celebrate the festive season. For some, the

only gifts they receive are those from PATCH on Christmas Day. The demand for our support surges during holidays, as children tend to consume more when at home.”

For those preferring alternative ways to support, PATCH welcomes regular donations via direct debit or one-off contributions to bolster the Toy Appeal.

JFK’s assassination, 60 years on

S QUAWK !

Greetings from the blustery coasts of Pembrokeshire, it’s Stephen Seagull here with a beakful of history and reflection. This week, we mark a moment of great significance - 60 years since the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on that bleak day of 22 November 1963. A day etched in the memories of those who soared the skies and walked the earth alike. Squawk!

Let’s cast our minds back, my fledgeling friends. JFK, a leader who promised new horizons, was brought down by an assassin’s bullet in Dallas, Texas. A day that started with the promise of a perfect fall, plunged into despair. Kennedy’s relationship

with his Vice President, Lyndon Johnson, was stormy at best. Like two seabirds vying for the same fish, they shared a bond of necessity, not of friendship. The Kennedys needed Johnson to secure Texas in the 1960 General Election, a tactical move as cunning as a seagull swooping on an unattended picnic. Squawk!

I remember it vividly, despite it being many moons ago. I was a young gull in the seventh grade, basking in the autumn sun at Troy Junior High School. Our day was disrupted when Jerry Spann, the music teacher, flapped into our classroom with the shocking news: the President had been shot. The news hit us like a rogue wave, leaving us all dazed

and adrift in a sea of disbelief. Squawk!

In the wake of the assassination, the nation’s eyes were glued to television screens. We witnessed the heartwrenching scenes of funeral preparations and the sombre procession on that Monday. The riderless white horse, a symbol of a fallen leader, and the salute of young John John Kennedy, a two-year-old boy saying farewell to his father, are images that still bring a tear to my eye. Squawk!

John John, a mirror image of his father in both looks and charm, met a similarly tragic fate in an airplane crash years later. It’s as if the harsh winds of fate conspired against the Kennedy lineage. Squawk!

Now, I’m not one to rummage through the

refuse of conspiracy, but there are some scraps that can’t be ignored.

Lyndon Johnson, a bird of prey in the political arena, was known for his ruthless and

unscrupulous nature.

The Secret Service files shed light on some unsettling facts. Johnson was the one who pushed Kennedy to campaign in Dallas, despite the

brewing storm over Civil Rights issues in Texas. He even insisted on the route of the presidential motorcade, overriding security concerns. It’s as if he was steering the ship towards dangerous waters. Squawk!

The images from that day – Jackie Kennedy’s blood-stained pink dress, the young boy’s salute, the riderless horse – remain seared in my memory. The 1960s were a tempestuous time, a period of great change and upheaval. The events of 22 November 1963 are as vivid in the minds of those who experienced it as a bright lighthouse on a dark night.

So, as we ride the winds of time, let us not forget the lessons of the past. Until we meet again, keep your feathers ruffled and your eyes on the horizon. This is Stephen Seagull, your winged witness to history, signing off.

High energy prices? Discover the natural low cost energy solution!

Celtic Green Energy reveals the benefits of Solar power.

In 2022, the Ukraine war caused an unprecedented energy crisis highlighting the UK’s dependence on Russian oil and gas that exposed our vulnerability to fuel security. Fuel prices rocketed, businesses folded

and families were plunged into a cost of living crisis. The cost of fuel impacted on transport, raising food, heating, motoring and consumer goods prices.

The general public became energy anxious and the Government had to step in to try to help the most vulnerable with new energy

and fuel campaigns. This vulnerability to energy security prompted the Government into spearheading home grown renewable energy solutions with the extended development of windfarms, nuclear and solar. Advancements in technology and falling equipment prices has suddenly made solar power systems more affordable and increasingly attractive to consumers.

Renewable energy systems are widely seen as the way forward for a greener economy, lowering the impact on the environment, lowering carbon and reducing costs. A number of affordable solutions are now available to the general public and businesses that can help in the quest for climate change and energy efficiency. One example is where the Government is keen to promote the sale of electric vehicles to meet strict G4 net zero carbon goals, however with this interest, widespread confusion and anxiety follows. Never before terminology such as ‘range anxiety’ and ‘charge-point anxiety’ are appearing with the growth in electric vehicles and a weak infrastructure.

Fuel poverty within a poor housing stock is raising environmental concerns and the Government has addressed this issue with the availability of renewable energy solutions to the less fortunate on benefit or low income through the ECO4 grant scheme. This however has caused a ripple effect of scurrilous opportunists trading off FREE solar claims to all, when in fact, all but a few are actually entitled to the scheme. Even when those who are fortunate to qualify, find that the installation teams are shipped in from far away and leave with little or no support for the householder. When systems fail, they are left with little or no aftercare and are left facing a costly ‘white elephant’. Fortunately the industry regulator MCS Certification has strict guidelines for the Solar Power installation service and consumers are advised to check out their website for approved and registered suppliers.

Understanding the needs of the consumer and offering a strict code of conduct is essential for a reputable installer. West Wales based Celtic Green Energy has an enviable reputation serving the region

for the last decade with renewable energy solutions for domestic, business and farming sectors. “We have people from all walks of life approach us with their energy concerns” quotes Sales Director Stuart Jupp. “What’s reassuring about my job is that I can give them genuine help to secure their future, their energy bills and relieve their anxieties. Anyone who uses electricity has potential to use solar power, although some properties may be ineligible due to prevailing conditions such as a ground floor flat!”

For the uninitiated, a solar power scheme is an installed system that includes a series of large flat photovoltaic panels that are placed on a southward facing roof that captures the suns rays – even on a cloudy day. The rays stimulate the photovoltaic cells to generate electricity that is then processed through an inverter ready to be fed into the property for use. Any surplus electricity is fed back to the national grid generating a small income, but it is now recommended that batteries are fitted to capture this latent energy and reuse at night.

As every property is different and every consumer has varying energy use, every solar panel system is tailored to the individual’s needs. A good starting point to specify the ideal scheme is based on a properties existing energy consumption where a system will be designed to match those needs. A Solar Surveyor will visit the site to identify the location, its constraints and discuss with the customer their objectives. A detailed quote and energy performance projection will be offered to

the customer that will help their decision process. Most business installations will pay back their investment within 2 years, whilst domestic schemes will pay back the investment within 4 to 5 years – based on the prevailing energy costs.

The main use of energy during the winter months is to provide heat, whether that is gas, coal, oil or electric. The fossil fuels are on the Government’s hit list to reduce carbon emissions, so is keen to encourage the sale of Air Source Heat Pumps which are three times more energy efficient than other heat sources. These are large fan assisted units that sit outside the property and reverse condense cold air into heat (the opposite action of a refrigerator). The Air Source Haet Pump will then provide sufficient heat to power a conventional central heating system, but given the nature of the beast, operates slightly differently to the traditional method of a gas or oil system. As these require electricity to power them, they do consume energy 24/7 – however, with a solar power system, they can undertake this free of charge during the daytime and if a solar battery system is installed, can run free at night too.

Solar power is seen as the great saviour for many as it offers a perfect solution for the nation, businesses and the private individuals. With it’s green credentials, Solar is an ideal gateway product that provides power for many energy intensive applications such as heating, refrigeration and charging that ultimately helps reduce carbon, the environment and cut costs. The last year has seen a dramatic rise in the sales of electric vehicles,

and a subsequent rise in the installation of home EV charging points. Add a solar system with solar batteries to the equation, and consumers will be able to charge their cars for free and dramatically cut the cost of their motoring.

Solar Batteries are now seen as the key essential accessory for any Solar power system as they help maintain provision of energy after dark. With advancements in technology falling off the back of the electric vehicle industry, there is now a wide variety of choice for batteries offering various degrees of performance, durability, cost, longevity and warranty. Any reputable installer will be able to advise the virtues of the right battery for the individual that best suits their lifestyle demands and budget.

Sum up…

Next time you awake to a fresh morning cuppa and look out to a sunny day, remember that sunshine could be providing you with free electricity to power your kettle – as well as your washing machine, cooker, television, charging your electric car and lots, lots more! The possibilities for solar power are endless, so if you are concerned about your rising energy costs and want to do something about it, make your next step be a phone call to Celtic Green Energy who will be able to advise you on the best way forward. You can call their energy help line 01269 500388 or learn more and visit their website at www. celticgreenenergy.co.uk Here’s to brighter tomorrows and sunnier savings!

Young people’s incredible musical talents celebrated at festival

T RUMPETER

Carys Wood from Haverfordwest High VC School was the overall winner at this year’s Secondary Schools Valero Music Festival.

The annual festival, which is organised by the Pembrokeshire County Council Music Service and sponsored by Valero, took place at Ysgol Caer Elen on Saturday (November 19th), after a threeyear hiatus due to the pandemic.

More than 240 young musicians from each of the County’s eight county secondary schools, Pembrokeshire College and further afield took part in individual and ensemble competitions throughout the day.

Later in the afternoon, an enthusiastic audience enjoyed a ‘Spotlight’ concert showcasing the individual winners and the winners of the instrumental and vocal ensemble competitions.

During the day, every performer who placed first, second and third

in their class received a badge in recognition of their achievement.

Philippa Roberts, Head of Pembrokeshire Music Service, said: “I would like to congratulate every young musician who performed and supported one another on Saturday. Also, a heartfelt thank you to Valero, the Friends of Pembrokeshire Young Musicians and the professional and encouraging adjudicating team who continue to support Pembrokeshire Music Service and our pupils.”

Sean O’Neill, ensembles adjudicator, expressed his admiration for the day.

“The standard of music making from all the young musicians was outstanding with loads of evidence of talent and potential coming through for the future! It was a great pleasure to be involved.”

Trumpeter Carys Wood, was presented with the overall winners’ cup by brass adjudicator Corey Morris. Earlier in the day, Carys

performed Virtuosity by Kenny Baker.

Winner of the Open Woodwind competition was James Townsend from Haverfordwest High VC School, who performed Czardas by Monti.

The Open String competition winner was cellist Isabel Raymond from Ysgol Caer Elen who performed Tarantella by WH Squire.

The Open Jazz winner was Dylan Sanders-Swales from Haverfordwest High VC School who performed his own arrangement of Whirlybird. Dylan was also the winner of the Open Percussion class. He performed a Super Mario Medley which he again arranged himself.

The Open Piano and Harp class was won by Jencyn Corp from Ysgol Bro Preseli who performed his own composition, Yr Afon.

The Open Vocal Competition was won by Rhys Williams from Ysgol Harri Tudur, who sang “It’s hard to speak my heart” from the musical Parade.

The first winner of the new Open Guitar class was Willis Riley from Greenhill, who performed The Trooper by Iron Maiden.

The Open Vocal Ensemble class winners were Haverfordwest High VC School’s upper voices ensemble. They performed an Adele mashup of Rumour has it/Someone like you.

The Open Instrumental Ensemble competition was won by Jencyn Corp and Lefi Dafydd of Ysgol Bro Preseli Deuadd piano, performing Norwegian Dance by Grieg.

The winners of the inaugural Open Rock and pop ensemble were The Messiaens from Haverfordwest High VC School. They performed Superstition by Stevie Wonder.

The hall at Ysgol Caer Elen was packed full as family, friends, and pupils who had performed earlier in the day all stayed to support the open winners.

The invited professional adjudicators - Timothy

Angel, vocal; Sean O’Neill, ensemble; Christopher Vale, woodwind; Corey Morris, brass; Karin Jenkins, strings; Bethan Harkin, piano and harp; Ben Richards, instrumental; Nick Baron, percussion, guitar and Jazz – were greatly impressed with the high standard and strength of schools’ music on show from across the County.

County Music Service events coordinator Miranda Morgan thanked the adjudicators, teachers, parents and students for making the Festival such a success.

“We are overwhelmed at the amount of young people who have participated in this year’s festival –we had over double the number taking part this year compared to last year which is wonderful to see. The standard of playing has been impressive throughout and it has been fantastic to extend our classes to include guitar and rock and pop ensembles this year.”

The results of the day were as follows:

WOODWIND

Grade 3 flute

1st – Tilly Laugharne –Ysgol Bro Gwaun 2nd – Mali JonesHughes – HHVC 3rd – Erin Dando –MHS

Grade 3 clarinet and saxophone 1st – Sophie Gilmartin –Greenhill

2nd – Emily Dickinson –Greenhill 3rd – Jed Cox –Greenhill

Highly commended –Katherine Jones – Harri Tudur

Grade 4 woodwind 1st – Tom Pounder –MHS 2nd – Ollie Towe –Ysgol Bro Preseli 3rd – Bethan Packard – MHS

Grade 5 woodwind 1st – Ffion Evans –Ysgol Caer Elen

2nd – Catrin Jones –Ysgol Caer Elen 3rd – Ela-Gwennon

Jones – Ysgol Caer Elen

Grade 6 woodwind

1st – Noah Jenkins –HHVC

2nd – Gemma Armstrong – Ysgol Bro Preseli

3rd – Alice Hillen –HHVC and Eryn Howlett – MHS

Open woodwind

1st – James Townsend – HHVC

2nd – Jencyn Corp –

Ysgol Bro Preseli

3rd – Harry Armstrong – MHS

BRASS

Grade 3 & 4 brass

1st – Elwyn Powell –Ysgol Bro Gwaun

2nd – Owain Williams –HHVC

3rd – Harry Thomas –

Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi Highly commended –Isabella Tawn – HHVC

Grade 5 brass

1st – Eliza Wood –Greenhill

2nd – Archie Noyce –Greenhill

3rd – Gwilym Jones –Ysgol Bro Preseli

Grade 6 brass

1st – Seren Barrett –Greenhill

2nd – Ioan Bromby –Greenhill and Andrew

Johnson – Ysgol Bro Preseli

3rd – Jaap Harris –

Ysgol Bro Preseli

Highly commended – Matthew Shaw –Greenhill, Arlo Jones

– Greenhill, Kellan

Rycroft – Ysgol Bro Preseli

Open brass

1st – Carys Wood –HHVC (and overall 2023 winner)

2nd – Carys Rycroft –Ysgol Bro Preseli

3rd – Filip Middlemist –HHVC

STRINGS

Grade 3

1st – Brooke Patterson – Ysgol Bro Gwaun

2nd – Debora Calocane – HHVC

3rd – Emma Nicholas –Greenhill and Eira KaillFranks – Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi

Highly commended –Janelle Cabral - HHVC

Grade 4

1st – Ruby Rapi – Ysgol Bro Preseli and Elena Gould

2nd – Sara James –

Ysgol Caer Elen

3rd – Kitty Kingsnorth Highly commended –Grace Tilbury – Harri Tudur

Grade 5

1st – Annabel John –Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi

2nd – Cosmo Karenin –

Ysgol Bro Gwaun

3rd – Anwen Sims –

Ysgol Caer Elen

Grade 6

1st – Seren Barrett – Greenhill and Mia Burnett – HHVC

2nd – Tom Bridger –

Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi

3rd – Gwenna Kennerley – HHVC

Highly commended –Esyllt Corp – Ysgol Bro Preseli

Open strings

1st – Isabel Raymond –

Ysgol Caer Elen

2nd – Maria Cabral –HHVC

3rd – Daisy Whitfield –Ysgol Bro Preseli

Highly commended – Freya Prout –Pembrokeshire College and Ella Bromby –Greenhill

PIANO AND HARP

Grade 3 and 4

1st – Harry Thomas –

Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi

2nd – Anwen Sims –

Ysgol Caer Elen

3rd - Steffan James –

Ysgol Caer Elen

Highly commended –

Martha Bhari – Harri Tudur

Grade 5

1st – Abbie Collinson –Greenhill

2nd – Sara James –

Ysgol Caer Elen and Siddha Saini – Ysgol Bro Preseli

3rd – Tom Bridger –Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi and Elena Gould (homeschooled)

Grade 6

1st – Cosmo Karenin –

Ysgol Bro Gwaun 2nd – Sebastian

Semaani-Rodriguez –Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi and Megan Evans –

Ysgol Caer Elen

3rd – Emily Thomas –Greenhill

Highly commended – Matthew Shaw –Greenhill and Isabel

Ramond – Ysgol Caer Elen

Open piano

1st – Jencyn Corp –

Ysgol Bro Preseli

2nd – Lefi Dafydd –

Ysgol Bro Preseli

3rd – Iestyn Barrellie –Greenhill

Highly commended –Jenifer Rees

DRUM KIT/ PERCUSSION

Grade 3-6

1st – William Rowe –Penrhyn Dewi

2nd – Sam Berry –

Ysgol Bro Gwaun and Jensen Luker – Ysgol Caer Elen

Open drum kit

1st – Dylan SandersSwales – HHVC

2nd – Libby Phillips –HHVC

GUITAR

Grade 3-5

1st – Lewis Murray –Ysgol Bro Gwaun

2nd – Steffan James –Ysgol Caer Elen

Open guitar

1st – Willis Riley –Greenhill

JAZZ

Grade 3-5

1st – Tom Pounder –MHS

2nd – Eryn Howlett –MHS

Open jazz

1st – Dylan SandersSwales – HHVC

2nd – Jencyn Corp –Ysgol Bro Preseli

3rd – Jed Davies –Pembrokeshire College

VOCALS

Popular vocals years 7-9

1st - Bella Carrol - Harri Tudur

2nd - Sophie JonesHarri Tudur

3rd - Maisie TennickCaer Elen

Highly commendedDavinia Foster - Harri Tudur

Popular vocals years 10-13

1st - Millie EvansThomas - Greenhill

2nd - Honey Johnston – HHVC, Mia Young – Greenhill and Libby Banner - HHVC

3rd - Lacey-May Mattson – HHVC and Gwenna KennerleyHHVC

Highly commended –Theo Butland - Harri Tudur

Musical theatre and classical vocals years 7-9

1st - Maya Welton –Ysgol Bro Preseli

2nd - Claire HooperRees - HHVC

3rd - Martha Bhari

- Harri Tudur and Rosabelle Chatwin –Ysgol Caer Elen

Highly commendedCaitlyn Sanders-Swales – MHS

Musical theatre and classical vocals years 10-13

1st - Ella BrombyGreenhill

2nd - Iestyn FinchHHVC

3rd - Mia Burnett

– HHVC and Bella

McCare - HHVC

Highly commendedEdie Morris – Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi

Open vocals

1st - Rhys WilliamsHarri Tudur 2nd - Eliza

Jessica BradburyPembrokeshire College

3rd - Megan LloydMHS

Highly commended - Bethan Raymond –HHVC

ENSEMBLES

Instrumental ensemble grade 5-

1st – Ysgol Bro Preseli violin quartet

2nd – Greenhill Clarinet trio

Open instrumental ensemble

1st – Ysgol Bro Preseli deuawd piano

2nd – Ysgol Bro preseli piano a ffliwt

3rd – HHVC violin quartet

Open vocal ensemble 1st – HHVC upper voices ensemble

2nd – HHVC lower voices ensemble

3rd – Harri Tudur vocal ensemble

Rock and pop ensemble grade 51st – Ysgol Caer Elen 2nd – HHVC

3rd – Harri Tudur

Highly commended –HHVC Band 2

Open Rock and pop ensemble

1st – “The Messiaens” – HHVC

2nd – HHVC KS4 band

3rd – Greenhill school band

Highly commended –HHVC Band #1

Welsh food and drink companies set their sights on Singapore

WELSH food and drink businesses are in Singapore to promote their first-class products.

Organised by the Welsh Government, the Trade Development Visit to Singapore provides a platform to engage with potential partners, distributors, and buyers in the region. The visit aims to highlight Wales’ diverse range of highquality products, including dairy, bakery and alcohol products.

Importing about 90% of its food and drinks consumption, Singapore is a country with great potential for Welsh food and drinks exports, as the sector sets its sights on further growth.

Welsh Government Minister for Rural Affairs, North Wales and Trefnydd, Lesley Griffiths, said: “This Trade Development Visit provides a great opportunity to showcase Wales’ excellent food and drink, and support our businesses to build important connections on an international stage.

“Singapore has great potential for the industry and I wish the producers

attending a successful visit. I look forward to hearing about the positive impact this trade development opportunity will have on our food and drink sector.

Companies participating on the Trade Development Visit have meetings with buyers, store visits, and are attending networking events, allowing the producers to interact directly with Singaporean importers, retailers, and consumers.

Attending in person are Daffodil Foods, Daioni, and Zero2Five. Meanwhile, those providing products for the showcase tasting are Village Bakery, Monty’s Brewing, Snowdonia Cheese, Tan Y Castell, Penderyn, Halen Môn, Morgan’s Brew Tea, and Hensol Castle Distillery.

One company hoping to build on links already created in the region is Daffodil Foods, a small independent and manufacturer of dairy and plant-based products.

Lynne Rowlands, Director of Daffodil Foods, told The Pembrokeshire Herald “Participating in this Trade Development Visit is a fantastic

opportunity for us. We are currently exporting to Hong Kong and Japan, through connections made at previous Welsh Government BlasCymru/ TasteWales events.

“We are keen to grow our export business and we are aware that Afternoon Tea is very popular in South-East Asia. Therefore, we are attending the Trade Development Visit to Singapore to talk to buyers and experts and learn more about this market. We hope that we can find importers, distributors and customers for our Welsh Clotted Cream to help grow our business through Singapore and Malaysia.”

One of the companies making up a strong list of Welsh producers in the product showcase is the award-winning family bakery, Tan Y Castell. Owner Paul Mear said: “It is with great pleasure that we announce Tan Y Castell Bakery’s participation in the Trade Development Visit to Singapore, an initiative led by the Welsh Government. Our previous engagements in Japan, South Korea, and Australia,

whether in person or virtually, stands as testament to the exemplary planning and strategic partnerships fostered through these events.

The Welsh Government has consistently facilitated meaningful introductions to key distributors and partners, aiding in our expansion into new markets.”

Due to its strong relationship with the United Kingdom, and as being

part of the Commonwealth, there is awareness of Welsh products and appreciation of British food and culture.

Singapore is a gateway to other South-East Asia markets, and with an economic growth of 4.6% in 2021 and a GDP per capita reaching over £58,000, locals have high purchasing power so there is a market for highend and artisan Welsh products.

Unlocking new markets brings even greater opportunities for these businesses to not only showcase their quality produce around the world, but also generate more revenue and increase profits.

For more information on how the Welsh Government can assist your business with exporting please visit https://businesswales.gov. wales/export/

Monty Python’s Spamalot

HOLD ONTO YOUR COCONUTS, Milford Haven! The zany antics of King Arthur and his Knights are galloping into Torch Theatre with Artistic Licence’s uproarious “Monty Python’s SPAMALOT.”

From Wednesday, 7th February to Saturday, 10th February 2024, brace yourselves for a madcap ride through the legend of the Holy Grail – Monty Python style!

Priced at a mere £18.00 (or £16.50 if you’re a thrifty knight), this musical extravaganza is “lovingly ripped-off” from the cinematic gem ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail.’ Picture this: a non-stop cavalcade of absurdity, cheeky

humour, and tunes so infectious they’ll have you humming like a Lumberjack in a Spamfilled forest.

The brains behind this comic coup? None other than the genius Eric Idle, with musical wizardry from John Du Prez and Idle himself. But let’s not forget the original Python maestros – Chapman, Cleese, Gilliam, Jones, and Palin – whose legacy is being hilariously resurrected on stage.

Guiding this comedic odyssey is Director Carol Mackintosh, steering the ship of fools with finesse, and Musical Director Sarah Benbow, weaving a symphony of silliness to tickle your funny bones.

Milford Haven is about to be swept off its feet – not by the Lady of the Lake but by the sheer lunacy of SPAMALOT. Forget reality; this is Pythonland where knights say ‘Ni,’ coconuts are a valid mode of transportation, and you can ‘always look on the bright side of life,’ even if it involves killer rabbits.

So, grab your Spam, polish your coconuts, and saddle up for the comedy event of the year. SPAMALOT at Torch Theatre – where the quest for the Holy Grail meets the quest for the silliest laugh! Don’t miss it, or you’ll be pining for the fjords!

Faulty Towers The Dining Experience

LISTEN UP, folks!

Brace yourselves for the return of London’s West End gem, Faulty Towers The Dining Experience, hitting The Queens Hall 2nd December!

Straight from the legendary Sydney Opera House, it’s the world’s most soughtafter tribute to the BBC sitcom. Outrageously funny? You bet!

Join me, Basil, along with Sybil and Manuel, for a night of mayhem served alongside a cracking 3-course meal. It’s immersive, interactive, and 70% improvised – that means anything goes! Critics

call it ‘startlingly best’ and ‘fantastic,’ but I say it’s just a two-hour eat, drink, and laugh sensation.

We’ve been rocking London since 2012, consistently high in TripAdvisor’s rankings, and bagged the

Certificate of Excellence for three years straight. Celebrated our 20th birthday in 2017 and still touring the world. Comedy, chaos, and culinary delights – what more could you want? Book now before I lose my patience!

‘In It Together Festival’ unleashes mega lineup for 2024

WALES’ premier family-friendly festival, In It Together, is set to make waves next year as it announces its stellar lineup for the 2024 edition.

Returning to Margam (near Port Talbot) for its third instalment from Friday, May 24, to Sunday, May 26, the festival has confirmed three top-tier headliners for its Parc StageRag ‘N’ Bone Man, Sugababes, and Dizzee Rascal.

The festival, which first graced the Queen’s Jubilee bank holiday in 2022 and returned for a triumphant encore on the late May bank holiday this year, is gearing up for an unforgettable weekend. Organisers have strategically selected a diverse trio of acts, ensuring a musical feast for festival-goers spanning generations.

Rag ‘N’ Bone Man, the soulful sensation whose real name is Rory Charles Graham, will kick off the festival

on Friday. Known for hits like ‘Human’ and the Ivor Novello award-winning ‘Giant’ with Calvin Harris, his performance promises a soul-stirring start to the weekend.

Saturday sees the iconic Sugababes take the Parc Stage, bringing their catalogue of charttoppers from the early 2000s, including ‘Push The Button,’ ‘About You Now,’ and ‘Round Round.’ With six UK number one singles and multi-platinum albums

under their belt, the Sugababes are set to ignite the festival with their infectious energy.

Closing the festival on Sunday is none other than Dizzee Rascal, who recently mesmerised audiences at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena. Known for anthems like ‘Bonkers,’ ‘Holiday,’ and ‘Bassline Junkie,’ Dizzee Rascal is poised to deliver a high-energy finale that will leave festival-goers buzzing.

Tickets are available for both the

entire weekend and individual days, allowing attendees to customise their experience. While set lists remain under wraps, anticipation is building for the headliners to showcase their chart-toppers and fan favourites.

In addition to the musical extravaganza, In It Together is reinforcing its reputation as Wales’ biggest family festival. The latest update from organisers highlights a diverse lineup of artists, including Cat

Burns, Eliza Rose, Craig David’s TS5, James Morrison, and many more joining the festivities.

To cater to diverse tastes and budgets, the festival is launching the Kids Go Free campaign, where children can attend for free with a family ticket. With over 150 artists performing across multiple stages, families can immerse themselves in a weekend of music and entertainment, complemented by over

100 free family activities.

The festival grounds will feature a range of attractions, from a climbing wall and outdoor cinema to a street food village and extreme sports arena with BMX and parkour shows. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a culinary connoisseur, In It Together Festival aims to provide an all-encompassing experience.

As the countdown to the 2024 edition begins, In It Together Festival is shaping up to be a not-to-bemissed event, promising a perfect blend of music, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. And for those eager to kick off the festivities a day early, the Thursday Campers Party, headlined by Natasha Bedingfield, offers a prelude to the weekend’s excitement, featuring a stellar lineup of artists to set the stage for an unforgettable In It Together experience.

Chalamet takes on iconic role in upcoming Wonka prequel

THIS CHRISTMAS season is set to be a treat for Timothée Chalamet enthusiasts, as the acclaimed actor steps into the whimsical world of Willy Wonka in the upcoming prequel to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” titled “Wonka.”

Fresh from his role as Paul Atreides in “Dune: Part Two,” Chalamet’s versatility takes center stage in this fantasy musical, a stark departure from his recent sci-fi venture.

The film’s newly released trailer offers a tantalising glimpse into Chalamet’s portrayal of the young Willy Wonka, as he embarks on a journey to master the art of chocolate making. However, this chocolatier-to-be faces challenges that go beyond tempering cocoa, including the shadowy presence of a chocolate cartel and penalties for indulging in

daydreams.

The casting of Chalamet in the iconic role raises eyebrows, given the indelible mark left by Gene Wilder, who brought Wonka to life in the original 1971 film adaptation and sadly passed away in 2016. Johnny Depp also had a stint as Wonka in Tim Burton’s 2005 adaptation. Director Paul King, renowned for his work on the “Paddington” films, aims to pay homage to the classic with a fresh perspective. King revealed in an interview with Entertainment Weekly, “I wanted this movie to be like a companion piece to that [1971] movie. If you imagine those people in that world 25 years earlier, that was my starting process. Eventually, he would grow into that person and that factory.”

The star-studded cast includes Calah Lane, Keegan-Michael Key, Paterson Joseph, Matt

Lucas, Mathew Baynton, Sally Hawkins, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carter, Olivia Colman, and the unexpected Hugh Grant as an Oompa Loompa. The film is set to hit theaters on December 15th, promising an enchanting cinematic experience.

Interestingly, “Wonka” is not the only Roald Dahl adaptation in the pipeline. Netflix has secured the rights to Dahl’s literary legacy, already unveiling a new rendition of “Matilda.” Furthermore, a series based on “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” spearheaded by Taika Waititi and Phil Johnston, is in development, hinting at a Dahl-inspired renaissance in the world of entertainment. As audiences eagerly anticipate Chalamet’s take on the eccentric chocolatier, the resurgence of Dahl’s timeless tales adds an extra layer of excitement to the festive season.

Gareth Gates to perform at The Boulevard

GET ready for an exhilarating experience in 2024 at The Boulevard Theatre, as the renowned British singer-songwriter, Gareth Gates, joins the impressive lineup of performers set to grace the stage in Milford Haven.

Mark your calendars for April 6th, 2024, at 7:30 pm, when Gareth will captivate the audience with his mesmerizing performance.

Tickets for this highly anticipated concert are already available for

purchase, including a limited number of exclusive meet and greet tickets. Gareth Gates catapulted to stardom in 2001 as the runner-up on the inaugural season of Pop Idol. His debut single, “Unchained Melody,” not only soared to the top of the UK Singles Chart but also became the second fastest-selling single in the UK at that time.

Since then, Gareth has carved out a successful career in both music and theatre, releasing multiple studio

albums and showcasing his talents in acclaimed productions such as Les Misérables and Legally Blonde. At The Boulevard Theatre, fans can anticipate a musical journey through Gareth’s classic hits and tracks from his more recent albums.

Known for its intimate setting, The Boulevard Theatre offers a unique space that fosters a close connection between the audience and the performers on stage.

Gareth Gates expressed his enthusiasm about

the upcoming show, stating, “I’m really excited to be coming to perform in Milford Haven. I’ve heard that The Boulevard Theatre is a fantastic intimate venue, and I can’t wait to get on that stage.”

Secure your tickets now through www. boulevard-theatre. com or by calling the box office at 01437 723493. The Boulevard Theatre, located on Charles Street, Milford Haven, promises an unforgettable evening filled with musical magic.

Goodwick Brass Band return to St. Davids Catherdral

GOODWICK Brass Band return with their annual concert at St Davids Cathedral on November 25th along with Bella Voce and guest soloists Tom Hutchinson and Glyn Williams, principal cornet and principal euphonium players from the Cory Band. Known for wowing audiences with their concerts featuring traditional marches, arrangements of popular music and solo items that showcase the talents of their principal players, Goodwick Brass Band are delighted to be returning to the concert stage at St Davids

Cathedral.

Bella Voce are an exciting and talented all female vocal group that perform songs from all genres and will have you mesmerised by their incredible sound and tonal adaptability. They are constantly in high demand and have performed with Max Boyce, Three Welsh Tenors, Katherine Jenkins, Aled Jones and most recently at the Albert Hall in London. Be sure to join us for a varied and thrilling evening of music from two of Pembrokeshire’s most revered musical groups along with two brilliant brass soloists.

Renaissance: a film by beyoncé

THERE’S a very exciting broadcast event on its way to Mwldan.

Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé is said to include footage from behind the scenes of her stunning sell out tour, live performances and time with Jay-Z and their children, including rehearsals with daughter Blue Ivy, and fans will be pleased to hear that there are multiple screenings to choose from at Mwldan, between the 1st and the 14th of December.

Renaissance:

A Film By Beyoncé accentuates the journey of Renaissance World Tour, from its inception, to the

opening in Stockholm, Sweden, to the finale in Kansas City, Missouri. It is about Beyoncé’s intention, hard work, involvement in every aspect of the production, her creative mind and purpose to create her legacy, and master her craft. Received with extraordinary acclaim, Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour created a sanctuary for freedom, and shared joy, for more than 2.7 million fans.

Tickets are priced at £19 (£15 Concessions) and are available now from www.mwldan.co.uk (24/7) or by phoning our box office between 12 - 8pm Tue - Sun 01239 621 200.

Jack absolute flies again

After a successful screening back in 2022, there will be another chance to catch the rollicking comedy Jack Absolute Flies Again at Mwldan on the 5th December from National Theatre Live, starring Caroline Quentin.

Written by Richard Bean (One Man, Two

Guvnors) and Oliver Chris (Twelfth Night), this production is based on Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s The Rivals.

After an aerial dog fight, Pilot Officer Jack Absolute flies home to win the heart of his old flame, Lydia Languish. Back on British soil, Jack’s advances soon turn to anarchy when the

young heiress demands to be loved on her own, very particular, terms. Emily Burns directs this spectacularly entertaining new version of Sheridan’s The Rivals. Featuring a cast including Caroline Quentin, Laurie Davidson, Natalie Simpson and Kelvin Fletcher.

The book of dust – la belle sauvage

On the 13th of December, Mwldan invite you into Philip Pullman’s fantastical world with a screening of the National Theatre’s stunning production, The Book of DustLa Belle Sauvage. Set twelve years before the epic His Dark Materials trilogy, this gripping adaptation revisits Philip Pullman’s novel in

which waters are rising and storms are brewing.

Two young people and their dæmons, with everything at stake, find themselves at the centre of a terrifying manhunt. In their care is a tiny child called Lyra Belacqua, and in that child lies the fate of the future. And as the waters rise around them, powerful adversaries conspire for mastery of Dust: salvation to some, the source of infinite corruption to others. Eighteen years after his ground breaking production of His Dark Materials at the National Theatre, director Nicholas Hytner returns to Pullman’s parallel universe. Broadcast live from London’s Bridge Theatre.

CALLING ALL TECHNO WIZARDS TO THE TORCH!

ARE YOU a fan of game shows? Do you have that competitive streak? Are you a dab hand with your smartphone or tablet? Then look no further than WiFi Wars at the Torch Theatre this January. Yes, we are already thinking about the New Year and introducing you to our 2024 performances, and Wifi Wars is one not to be missed as it returns with a live comedy game show where everyone can all play along!

Hosted by comedian Steve McNeil (team captain on UK TV’s hit comedy/gaming show “Dara O’Briain’s Go 8 Bit”) and aided by Guinness WorldRecord-Breaking

tech whizz, the award-winning Rob Sedgebeer, Wifi Wars invites audience members to log in with their smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes!

Wifi Wars is so very popular that you can attend not one, but two shows at the Torch and there’ll be entirely different games and quizzes at each show so you can attend both on Saturday 6 January at 2pm and 7pm!

Described by The Guardian as a show “Not To Be Missed” and appearing as Critic’s Choice by Time Out and featuring on the Hot List of the

Times, this interactive show offers something different in a theatre setting. It has even made the Top Ten London Geek Nights out by the Metro. Recommended for ages 6+ (matinee show), 12+ (evening show) Wifi Wars will appeal to all.

Ticket prices for Wifi Wars on Saturday 6 January at 2pm and 7pm are Family: £50, Full: £15 and Under 26; £13.50. Tickets can be purchased from the Box Office at the Torch Theatre on 01646 695267 or torchtheatre. co.uk.

I N a dec I s I ve move towards redefining the virtual reality ( vR) experience, Meta has unveiled the Quest 3, a headset that not only corrects the missteps of its predecessor but sets a new standard in comfort and functionality.

comfort and design excellence: at the heart of the Quest 3’s success is its commitment to user comfort. The integration of pancake optics results in a thinner display housing, revolutionizing the headset’s weight distribution for a more comfortable, extended-use experience. complementing this is the redesigned head strap, offering firm support without sacrificing flexibility. Users of varying head sizes can enjoy a secure fit without the need for a tight grip.

visual Powerhouse:

With a pixel count of 2064x2208 per eye and a formidable 2.5x GPU performance boost from the upgraded snapdragon XR2 chipset, the Quest 3 is a visual powerhouse. This leap in clarity and graphics is particularly evident in exclusive titles designed for the Quest 3, such as the highly anticipated asgard’s Wrath 2, promising users a more immersive gaming experience.

mixed-reality magic:

a standout feature of the Quest 3 is its mixed-reality capability, offering users a convincing 3d view

of their surroundings. While the technology may currently seem novel, there’s exciting potential for innovative applications, especially in educational contexts like Piano vision. Users can comfortably navigate real-world spaces with the headset on, marking a significant step towards integrating vR into daily activities.

controller-Free Interaction:

Meta’s push towards controllerfree hand tracking adds a new layer of immersion to the Quest 3 experience. While the initial ‘wow factor’ is present, concerns linger about the system’s accuracy and stability, impacting precision in certain applications. Nevertheless, the introduction of handson interaction opens up new possibilities for users seeking a more tactile vR experience.

The verdict:

The Quest 3, priced at an accessible £479.99, stands as a testament to Meta’s dedication to advancing vR technology. successfully marrying comfort, visual enhancements, and innovative features like mixed reality and hands-free interaction, the Quest 3 sets a new standard for vR headsets. as the industry continues to evolve, the Quest 3 positions itself as a frontrunner, inviting users to explore the limitless potential of virtual reality without unnecessary extravagance.

JFK - 60 YEARS ON

November

22, 1963

- A look at the events that shook the

world

US PRESIDENT

John F. Kennedy was assassinated during an official visit to Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963, and was pronounced dead after arriving at Parkland Memorial Hospital.

Official investigations concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald, acting alone, assassinated him from a sixth-floor window of the Texas School Book Depository.

However, numerous books and documentaries have questioned this conclusion in the six decades since the assassination.

The seven doctors who treated Kennedy at Parkland, where he was taken in his opentop limousine after being shot in the head, have expressed doubts.

Dr. Robert McClelland, who passed away at the age of 89 in 2019 and was an assistant professor of surgery at the hospital in 1963, stated, “In all probability, there was a conspiracy. There was more than one shooter.”

Tom Sinclair Editor@herald.email

The official Warren Commission investigation concluded that Kennedy was shot from behind after his motorcade passed the depository, where Oswald was employed.

However, the doctors questioned this, citing his horrific injuries and the bullet’s apparent entry point at the front of his head.

Dr. Ronald Jones, a senior doctor at Parkland, questioned, “If Oswald was in the sixth-floor depository, how could Kennedy have been shot from the front? And so, was there more than one assailant?”

Dr. Joe Goldstrich, a fourth-year medical student at the time, asked, “How could a gunshot from the rear peel the scalp from front to back?”

The Parkland doctors were assembled by producer Jacque Lueth in 2013 after research indicated some had observed what they believed to be a bullet hole in the front of Kennedy’s neck.

They also examined photos from Kennedy’s autopsy, which they had never collectively reviewed.

They concluded that the images differed from what they saw in the Parkland trauma room,

suggesting that the President’s body might have been tampered with.

The footage of the doctors’ recollections was not released until now because Mr. Lueth wanted to interview Jim Jenkins, the sole surviving member of the autopsy team, a feat not achieved until 2021.

He also aimed to speak with government medical pathologist Michael Baden and lawyer Robert Tannenbaum, who was deputy counsel to the House of Representatives Select Committee on Assassinations, which investigated both Kennedy’s and Martin Luther King’s

assassinations.

Barbara Shearer created the new documentary.

Dr. Kenneth Salyer, a first-year resident at the hospital who died in 2020, said, “When I saw the autopsy pictures, I thought somebody had tampered with the whole thing, and it made me very suspicious.”

Dr. Lawrence Klein, a third-year medical student at the time, recalled his memories of being in the operating theatre where Kennedy was treated.

He said, “Dr. [Malcolm] Perry and Dr. [Charles] Baxter had just entered the room ahead of me. Dr. Perry was standing on the right side of the cart the President was lying on, and Dr. Baxter [was] on the left side.”

He added, “It was a lie; they really didn’t tell the truth about it.”

The Warren Commission concluded that Oswald fired three bullets from a MannlicherCarcano rifle. One bullet missed and is believed to have struck a sign. The second, the so-called ‘magic bullet,’ hit Kennedy near the base of his neck’s back. The Commission found that it then passed into Texas Governor John Connally, who was sitting

in front of the President and First Lady Jackie Kennedy with his wife Nellie. Connally sustained injuries to his back, chest, wrist, and thigh. The magic bullet theory was deemed plausible because the inquiry determined Oswald would not have had time to reload his weapon to shoot again. The third bullet struck President Kennedy in the head.

A bullet, believed to be the one that killed the President, was later found next to Governor Connally on his hospital stretcher, assumed to have emerged from his body.

Yet, theories of a second shooter have persisted since the assassination. This hypothesis gained further support last month when one of Kennedy’s bodyguards, Paul Landis, spoke to the Mail. He had previously discovered a bullet on the back of the presidential limousine and placed it next to the President on his stretcher. He believed it was misplaced in the ensuing chaos.

If the bullet found by Landis had not struck the governor but was the one on his stretcher, it raises questions about how he was shot. Some witnesses claimed to have heard shots from the ‘grassy knoll,’ famously depicted in Oliver Stone’s film JFK.

Recalling the assassination, Landis told

the Mail, “He was leaning slightly to his left, towards Mrs. Kennedy, and I thought he was turning to see where the noise came from. I didn’t realize he had been hit by a bullet at that time. I heard the second shot. From my position on the running board of the follow-up car, I saw no reaction in the President’s car,’I heard the second shot. From my position, standing on the running board of the follow-up car, I didn’t see any reaction in the President’s car, so I thought that shot had missed.’

He added: ‘I heard the third shot and I saw the President’s head explode in a mist of blood and flesh and brain matter — and I ducked to avoid getting splattered.

‘The third shot came fairly quickly after the second... and then we raced to Parkland Memorial Hospital.’

After Kennedy was confirmed dead, he was flown back to Washington DC aboard Air Force One. Vice President Lyndon Johnson was sworn in as the new President on the flight.

Mrs Kennedy, who was still wearing the pink outfit that was stained with her husband’s blood, was present. When asked if she wanted to change her clothes, she refused and said: ‘Let them see what they have done.’

Why conspiracy theorists will never accept who shot JFK

THE FAMOUS photo of Lee Harvey Oswald holding the rifle he would later use to kill JFK was recently confirmed by forensic research to be authentic. At the time of his arrest, Oswald told the Dallas police that it was a fake, part of an effort to frame him. Since then, people all over the world have produced a small mountain of “evidence” to support this thesis.

This new authentication should put these conspiracy theories to rest. In reality, it will change nothing. Those who want to believe will in all likelihood cling to their theory with the certainty of religious faith. Their usual response to new facts is either to claim they’re false, question the motives of those behind them, or try to fit them into their own worldview.

Police, academics, and other experts have been dissecting the JFK conspiracy arguments for years without making much of a dent in their armies of loyal adherents. Tenuous facts and halftruths are pieced together, and leaps in logic are made every time a new piece of

evidence emerges that doesn’t fit the conspiracy narrative.

Even today, many of the same old arguments are trotted out in defence of the idea that it was a vast and sinister conspiracy: that a single shooter could not have made the kill; that Oswald was a bad shot; that Oswald couldn’t have fired so many shots in that time. The list goes on, and on.

Fight back against disinformation. Get your news here, direct from experts

This irrationality follows a familiar pattern. A few years ago, Barack Obama released his long-form birth certificate in response to accusations that he had been born in Kenya.

But many of those involved in the socalled Birther movement immediately declared it a fake. They’d been claiming for the best part of two years that Obama had resisted making his birth certificate public because he had something to hide. When it was produced, they promptly decided that its existence was confirmation that they were right all along.

This is why the

conspiracy theorists who believe that Oswald was set up, and that JFK was in fact murdered by some combination of the mob, the Cubans, the Teamsters, the Soviets, the CIA, the military and Lyndon B Johnson, will continue to believe this no matter what. To paraphrase Jonathan Swift, you can’t reason someone out of a viewpoint they were never reasoned into in the first place.

Conspiracy theories appear to be on the rise with seemingly more people willing to believe in them than ever before. Going on the current evidence, it seems that the US is more susceptible to this unhealthy fixation than many other countries. This was something observed by Richard Hofstadter, the famed historian, in 1964, when he referred to the “paranoid style” in American history, an attempt to explain this phenomena. Since then a variety of explanations have been advanced to account for why conspiracy theories are so embedded in the US’s political culture. One is simply the fact that America was founded

on a conspiracy, with the Founding Fathers plotting together to overthrow the British colonial regime. A fear of tyranny and government overreach has been part of the political culture ever since.

It’s often forgotten that after the revolution the Alien and Sedition Act was passed by the Adams administration to persecute his political enemies. For many Americans, the government should either be suspected or feared.

Equally, the mainstream media has fed this paranoia. The past few decades have seen a steady stream of movies and TV shows based around conspiracy theories turning out to be true. The most obvious example is the X-Files which repeatedly told viewers that “the truth is out there”.

The most famous film on the subject of the Kennedy assassination is probably Oliver Stone’s JFK from 1991. While entertaining, it does take tremendous liberties with certain details. For instance, one sequence of the film shows a shadowy figure faking the photo of Oswald holding the gun.

Who this figure is, who they work for, and what their motive is, is never established and this sums up the main problem with Stone’s work. It doesn’t always make clear what are hard facts, what is conjecture, and what is entirely invented for dramatic purposes.

Even the news media isn’t immune from this madness. Some TV stations and media commentators skate uncomfortably close to giving such theories a credence they don’t deserve.

Unfortunately, conspiracy theories always sell, and as competition for ratings increases, it’s easy to see their attraction for the unscrupulous. In a country where freedom of speech is venerated as the most important right, it’s perhaps no surprise that some would take it to extremes, giving a platform to anyone with an opinion and a product to plug.

The internet also plays a powerful role. It’s created a maze of echo chambers where people only hear what they want to hear. While previously those wanting to believe were

largely isolated within their communities, they can now gather together online in their thousands to share ideas and theories. This leads to conspiracies being spread across the globe, each time being modified and amplified. The creator of the theory then takes the fact that everyone else is talking about it as evidence that there must be something in it.

Finally, there is the inescapable fact that sometimes this distrust of government is rooted in good cause. The shock of the Watergate revelations and the Iran-Contra scandal still reverberate throughout the American political psyche. More recently we were taken into the War in Iraq on the basis of at best faulty intelligence, at worst a lie. As a result, it’s perhaps not unsurprising that people are much more willing to believe in conspiracies to explain the complexity of modern life. However, those who believe we never went to the moon will never change their minds, neither I suspect, will the Kennedy assassination conspiracy theorists.

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

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

In recent years, Solar Photovoltaic (PV) power has emerged as a game-changer in the renewable energy sector.

Solar panels, perched on rooftops and scattered across the landscape, are converting sunlight into clean, sustainable electricity. Pembrokeshire, with its abundance of sunlight, is ideally positioned to embrace this green revolution.

The Benefits

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

an array of benefits to both residential and commercial customers.

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

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

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

Solwr: The Local Experts Leading the charge

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

Solwr’s impressive portfolio of solar installations across Pembrokeshire speaks volumes about their commitment to quality and sustainability, covering a wide range of structures, from cozy family-owned

enterprises to large commercial enterprises, their projects have become shining examples of what solar power can achieve.

The business’s dedication to local communities is evident

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

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

Canolfan S4C Yr Egin ar restr fer Gwobrau

MAE Canolfan S4C Yr Egin wedi cyrraedd rhestr fer yng Ngwobrau Partneriaid Gwerthfawr Gyrfa Cymru.

Mae’r Egin wedi cael ei henwebu i’r categori ‘Hyrwyddwr Gorau’r Gymraeg yn y gweithle’ oherwydd y gwaith y maen nhw’n ei wneud i ddarparu cymorth gyrfaoedd i ddisgyblion mewn ysgolion lleol drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg, yn ogystal a dangos ei bwriad fel hwb i fusnesau creadigol a digidol i gydnabod gwerth y Gymraeg fel sgil ar gyfer y gweithle ac i gymryd rhan mewn digwyddiadau sy’n hybu pwysigrwydd y Gymraeg yn y gweithle.

Mae’r seremoni wobrwyo hon yn gyfle i Gyrfa Cymru gydnabod a diolch i’r busnesau sydd wedi gweithio gyda nhw yn ystod y flwyddyn mewn digwyddiad arbennig.

Dywedodd Nikki Lawrence, Prif Weithredwr Gyrfa Cymru: “Llongyfarchiadau i Ganolfan S4C Yr Egin am gyrraedd rhestr fer Gwobr Partneriaid Gwerthfawr 2023.

“Mae gweithio gydag ysgolion i ddarparu cymorth gyrfaoedd gwerthfawr yn helpu i ysbrydoli

ac ysgogi cenhedlaeth iau, sef gweithlu’r dyfodol yng Nghymru.

“Rydym yn edrych ymlaen at groesawu Yr Egin i’r seremoni wobrwyo arbennig yn adeilad y Pierhead eleni ac yn dymuno pob lwc i bawb.”

Mae’r Egin, sy’n gartref i dros 16 o fusnesau wedi bod yn cynnal nifer o ddiwrnodau agored gyda ysgolion Sir Gaerfyrddin er mwyn iddynt fedru cael mewnwelediad i’r hyn sydd gan y diwydiannau creadigol i’w gynnig a llwybrau gyrfa posibl. Un

o’r ysgolion hynny yw Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bro Myrddin. Dywedodd Eirlys Thomas, Pennaeth Cynorthwyol yr ysgol:

“Rydym ni yma yn ysgol Bro Myrddin yn ddiolchgar iawn o’r profiadau tu hwnt o werthfawr a gafwyd gan ein disgyblion Blwyddyn 9 a Blwyddyn 12 ar eu hymweliadau i’r Egin. Roedd arlwy llawn o weithgareddau wedi eu trefnu ar eu cyfer megis sgriptio a chyfieithu ar y pryd yn ogystal a chyflwyniadau gan gynrychiolwyr o S4C, Afanti a chyn-ddisgyblion sydd

bellach yn rhan o’r tîm yn yr Egin.

Roedd yn gyfle gwych i godi ymwybyddiaeth o’r mathau gwahanol o yrfau a ellir eu gwneud drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg yma yng Nghaerfyrddin.”

Bwriad y seremoni yw i ddathlu’r gwaith y mae cyflogwyr wedi’i wneud i helpu ysgolion a phobl ifanc i ymgysylltu â’r byd gwaith.

Mae partneriaethau rhwng busnesau ac ysgolion yn rhoi ysbrydoliaeth a chymhelliant i bobl ifanc. Mae gwybodaeth a phrofiadau gwerthfawr sy’n gy-

sylltiedig â gwaith yn helpu pobl ifanc i gysylltu’r hyn y maent yn ei ddysgu yn yr ysgol â’r byd gwaith.

Meddai Llinos Jones, Swyddog Ymgysylltu Yr

Egin: “Rydym wrth ein boddau o gael ein henwebu am wobr Partneriaid Gwerthfawr Gyrfa Cymru. Un o brif amcanion Yr Egin yw i feithrin talent y dyfodol, drwy gynnal digwyddiadau a hyrwyddo gyrfaoedd mae modd codi ymwybyddiaeth ymhlith pobl ifanc o’r holl gyfleon sydd ar gael iddynt yn y diwydiannau creadigol, yn Sir Gâr, a hynny yn y Gymraeg.

“Diolch o galon i bawb rydym wedi cydweithio â hwy, rydym wedi datblygu partneriaethau gyda â Gyrfa Cymru, Tîm Ehangu Mynediad Prifysgol Cymru Y Drindod Dewi Sant, ac amryw o gwmnïau creadigol a digidol sydd wedi eu lleoli yma yn Yr Egin er budd disgyblion ysgol ac effeithio’n gadarnhaol ar y Gymraeg.”

Gwyliwch y fidio yma i gael rhagflas o’r ddarpariaeth mae’r Egin yn ei gynnig i ysgolion https://www. facebook.com/YrEgin/videos/960721151914218

Mae Tregroes Waffles wedi codi dros £1,000 ar gyfer y Gronfa Dymuniadau

MAE TREGROES

Waffles wedi codi dros

£1,000 ar gyfer y Gronfa Dymuniadau yn ystod eu dathliadau penblwydd yn 40 oed.

Mae Tregroes Waffles yn fecws teuluol wedi’i leoli ym mryniau ymdonnog Dyffryn Teifi. Cododd y becws arian ar gyfer y Gronfa Dymuniadau yn ei Ddiwrnod Hwyl i’r Teulu i ddathlu eu pen-blwydd yn 40 oed ddydd Sadwrn 19 Awst. Mae’r Gronfa Dymuniadau yn creu eiliadau hudolus i blant a phobl ifanc â chyflyrau sy’n cyfyngu ar fywyd ac sy’n bygwth bywyd.

Dywedodd Ray

D’Arcy, Rheolwr Gyfarwyddwr yn Tregroes

Waffles: “Roedd yn ddiwrnod hynod lwyddiannus gan godi dros £1,000 i’r Gronfa Dymuniadau.

“Daeth niferoedd mawr o’r gymuned leol

a chefnogwyr brwd ein wafflau allan i fwynhau diwrnod llawn hwyl. Uchafbwynt y diwrnod i lawer oedd y becws yn agor ei ddrysau i ganiatáu i’r cyhoedd weld sut rydym yn gwneud ein wafflau blasus, sydd fel arfer yn gyfrinach sy’n cael ei gwarchod yn ofalus.

“Roedden ni wedi ein syfrdanu gyda’r nifer a ddaeth i’r digwyddiad ac wrth ein bodd yn gallu codi cymaint o arian at achos mor haeddiannol.”

Mae ymgyrch y Gronfa Dymuniadau yn cael ei chyflwyno gan Elusennau Iechyd Hywel Dda, elusen swyddogol Bwrdd Iechyd Prifysgol Hywel Dda.

Dywedodd Katie Hancock, Swyddog Codi

Arian yr Elusen: “Diolch yn fawr iawn i Tregroes

Waffles am ddewis cefnogi’r Gronfa Dymu-

niadau yn ystod eich dathliad Pen-blwydd yn 40 oed. Mae’n wych partneru â chwmni mor boblogaidd.

“Mae cefnogaeth ein cymunedau lleol i’r Gronfa Dymuniadau yn ein galluogi i wneud gwahaniaeth cadarn-

haol i’r plant, y bobl ifanc a’r teuluoedd a gefnogir gan y Tîm Gofal Lliniarol Pediatrig.”

I ddarganfod mwy am y Gronfa Dymuniadau, ewch i: https://elusennauiechydhyweldda.gig. cymru/ymgyrchoedd-a-

digwyddiadau/y-gronfadymuniadau/ I gael rhagor o fanylion am yr elusen a sut y gallwch chi helpu i gefnogi cleifion a staff lleol y GIG, ewch i www. elusennauiechydhyweldda.org.uk

FUW calls for TB impact review

THE FUW wants the Welsh Government to review the costs and administrative burdens placed upon livestock keepers resulting from Wales’s current TB testing regime.

The call follows last week’s announcement by the Minister for Rural Affairs, which outlined additional testing requirements for Wales’s Low and intermediaterisk areas.

The changes come as part of the five-year Delivery Plan published earlier this year.

From February 1, 2024, pre-movement testing will be reintroduced into the Low TB Area of Wales, whilst cattle moving into the Intermediate TB Area from the High TB area of Wales, the High-Risk Area of England and Northern Ireland will need a post-movement test.

Farmers can still move cattle that have tested clear at a government-funded routine surveillance test, such as the annual herd test.

Dr Hazel Wright,

FUW Deputy Head of Policy, stated: “The announcement of further testing requirements for cattle will be of little surprise to many FUW members given the proposals in the last Welsh Government TB consultation.

“In our lengthy response to this consultation we outlined that the expected impact on cattle welfare and human health and safety due to the increased gathering and handling required to comply with additional testing proposals should be determined prior to any additional testing requirements. However we are yet to receive this information despite today’s announcement.”

As part of its consultation response on the reintroduction of pre-movement testing in the LTBA, the FUW stated that the priority for such herds should be protection against disease but only in a manner which is proportionate to the risks conferred by a given activity and the benefits

gained by a given policy.

“Whilst the FUW recognises the need to protect the Low-Risk Area from further disease spread, the cost-benefit of increased testing must be fully considered.

“According to data provided by the Welsh Government, between 2017 and 2022, there were over 860,000 premovement tests. Of these, just 0576 reactors and 610 inconclusive reactors were disclosed.

“In the LTBA, there were just two reactors over this period - one in 2020 and one in 2021

- but more than 43,000 pre-movement tests were conducted. Over the same time, in the Intermediate Mid Risk Area, no reactors were disclosed from postmovement testing.

“The increased costs of these new policies come at a time when the industry is facing potential reductions to the compensation paid to cattle keepers following the compulsory slaughter of cattle infected with bovine TB.

“The financial and emotional costs of bovine TB are tremendous.

“Analysis conducted by the FUW showed that, in 2022, the estimated total cost of TB premovement testing borne by cattle keepers in Wales was more than 2.3 million pounds. This is a 129% increase in industry testing costs since 2006.

“Sadly, testing costs are just a fraction of the costs borne by the industry for this disease.

“No compensation is offered for the additional costs incurred, such as lost revenue, loss of milk production, loss of breeding lines, delays to re-stocking and movement restrictions. These consequential losses suffered by a producer whose animals are compulsorily purchased can be significant and run into tens of thousands of pounds.

“We are therefore calling on the Welsh Government to analyse the cost-benefit of such proposals properly and to take a more rounded view of the overall impact on farm businesses before implementation.”

NFU Cymru Livestock Board visits Castell Howell Foods

MEMBERS of the NFU Cymru Livestock Board recently visited Castell Howell Foods to learn more about Wales’ leading independent food service wholesaler.

The board met with Martin Jones, one of the Directors of the business who gave an outline of the journey Castell Howell has taken to get where they are today. From a small rural farm beginnings in Carmarthenshire in 1988, Castell Howell Foods are this year celebrating 35 years of business. As a family run business, they are extremely proud of their rural roots, which is why they supply and promote local produce as part of their offering to customers and is one of their core values. Each year, Castell Howell invests millions of pounds on regional produce and services from Welsh suppliers and manufacturers, thus assisting in providing a

platform for their products to reach the market.

Castell Howell has 800 colleagues, and their aim has always been to offer ‘The Complete Catering Solution’. Their product range comprises of over 17,000 lines and service allows them to meet this high standard. Martin said: “We are one family in one community with one mission – to deliver high quality food and educate along the way.”

Edward Morgan, Group Corporate Social Responsibility at Castell Howell Foods outlined their commitment to the environment, working on their Net Zero Action Plan which was launched in 2021. They work closely with supply chain partners and external contractors to reduce the impact on the environment, in terms of carbon emissions, water usage and biodiversity. One of the changes they

have made include the management of polystyrene waste through the investment of a Styromelt Machine.

The Board heard from Tim Rowe about Castell Howell’s Celtic Pride Beef which also carries the prestigious Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. This label authenticates the brand and underlines the integrity of the farming practices, whole chain traceability and quality assurance management. He also explained about their Beef Q project where Celtica Foods Ltd (the home of Celtic Pride) is a key partner along with a collaboration of six organisations.

The Beef Q project aims to improve the eating, consistency and value of Welsh Beef production through the testing and demonstration of an enhanced carcase quality grading system. This system enables predictions of beef

carcase, eating quality and guides the introduction of new carcase data feedback, benchmarking and decisionsupport systems to the Welsh Beef supply chain, aimed at their beef supplier farmers. The Livestock Board is keen to see how this can now be used more widely in the industry and integrated into the existing EUROP grid payment system which focusses primarily on meat

yield.

During the afternoon at Castell Howell, the Board had an insightful tour around the depot and butchery, learning facts along the way. They learnt that some of their top selling Welsh items are fresh milk, fresh cream, and fresh butter, closely followed by Welsh Beef, lamb and pork.

Rob Lewis, NFU Cymru Livestock Board Chair said: “I’d like to thank Castell

Howell for allowing us to visit and for the enlightening depot and butchery tour. It was excellent to hear about the ongoing work they are doing to continue to provide quality, nutritious food whilst reducing their carbon footprint. A topclass example of a food business in rural Wales, where delivering top quality Welsh food to the service sector is at the heart of their business model.

New cultivated meat standards on the menu

NEW safety standards for cultivated meat - a technology that could offer a sustainable alternative to livestock farming - are to be developed thanks to a new project.

Funded by Innovate UK, a new consortium between industry and academia will develop global standards for safety testing for how this meat is grown. The goal is to advance the development of global standards for foodsafe growth media formulations and ingredients.

According to the Food Standards Agency, more data on safety is needed to approve these new cell-based meat products for UK consumers.

The partnership led by Multus, along with Vireo Advisors, Extracellular and Aberystwyth University, and supported by New Harvest and the British Standards Institute, will work on new safety rules for the USA, Singapore, UK and the EU.

The new project will bring stakeholders together from across the sector to develop safety testing methods that enhance the regulatory assessment of cultivated meat and advance the development of global standards.

The research could remove a significant barrier to successfully commercialising meat grown from animal cells by developing safe, affordable, and animalfree feedstock for its production.

This consortium of leading stakeholders will develop and substantiate safety testing methods for cell culture media ingredients, generate datasets, assess the feasibility of applying these methods to other cultivated meat inputs and initiate industrywide standards.

Stakeholder engagement, publication in open-access journals, and dissemination by respected parties, such as the British Standards Institution and New Harvest, will support industry uptake and validation of the new methods.

Reka Tron is Chief Operating Officer at Multus, a company that aims to create a common language for cultivated meat safety with an innovative consortium of industry leaders and develops key ingredients for the affordable scaleup of cultivated meat, intending to position the UK as a global leader.

She said: “This collaborative effort will support the production

of cultivated meat as an alternative to intensive animal farming.

“As a partnership, we will seek to remove a significant barrier to the successful commercialisation of cultivated meat by developing safe, affordable, and animalfree media.

“Ensuring safety is the key issue when deciding whether to allow a product to enter a market. For this reason, establishing baselines and methods for industry-scale regulatory evaluation could create new safety standards essential for scaling cultivated meat.

“The project will improve regulatory and consumer confidence in cultivated meat products as a safe and sustainable source of protein, decrease the cost of regulatory approval, and promote a culture where novel technologies are shared more effectively.

Dr Ruth Wonfor from the Department of Life Sciences at Aberystwyth University said: “Cultivated meat is on course to become part of our food supply over the next decade, with the potential to grow substantially beyond that. While this outlook is promising for sustainability, we also need to ensure

it meets the highest safety standards for consumers.

“By establishing baselines and methods for industry-scale regulatory evaluation, we could create new safety standards essential for scaling cultivated meat. This new project could also make the UK a global leader in collaborative research and innovation in this important field.”

Elaine Shine from the British Standards Institute added:”There is a clear and apparent market need for this research, ensuring the safety and public perception of novel foods development.

“BSI believe the proposed research solution will form a solid foundation for consensus-based standards development.”

Isha Datar from New Harvest also added: “The future of food hinges on our competency, capability, and capacity in establishing food safety of novel foods. Cultured meat is a groundbreaking technology that can only positively impact our world if it can be appropriately deemed safe.

“Public and private collaboration is a transparent and responsible path forward for understanding safety, and we are thrilled that UKRI aligns with us in recognising and supporting the importance of this work.”

Interested members of the public, cultivated meat companies, food regulators, government representatives and other industry stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the project.

For more information or to express an interest in participating, go to: http://eepurl.com/ gjwXkP.

AS WE speed towards the end of the month, and with that towards the Winter Fair (if you’re there drop by the stand for a cuppa), I’d like to highlight and remind members of the Union’s commitment towards the ‘Not in My name’ campaign.

Established in 2012, Not in my Name aims to raise awareness about violence against women and involves Women’s Institutes recruiting male ambassadors from their communities to make the White Ribbon promise to never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women.

The FUW renewed its pledge to that at the Royal Welsh Show in July, when we hosted the launch of this year’s campaign. We also attended a key stakeholder event at the beginning of the week and then joined the Wales WI for their annual candlelight vigil outside the Senedd.

There are many consequences of domestic abuse, including the development of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, and the FUW made a commitment to keep the spotlight on mental health, this campaign is part of that ongoing work. Domestic abuse affects all of our communities, urban and rural. We support

the calls to seek to eliminate domestic abuse and support victims regardless of their occupation and gender.

For many people home is not a place of safety and Covid-19 restrictions at the time increased the isolation suffered by many which is often exacerbated in our rural communities. It has also been more difficult for victims of domestic abuse to seek help at a time when incidence of domestic abuse has increased, which is even more acute in some of our isolated rural communities.

We believe that we have a duty as an organisation embedded in our rural communities to play our part in raising awareness of these issues and supporting people where we can.

Behaving in an abusive way can also be a sign of poor mental health – and getting help for your mental health can lead to a positive change in behaviour. We want to encourage anyone who is worried about their own or someone else’s behaviour to seek help.

As part of the campaign, the FUW is working with partner organisations to provide Domestic Abuse Training to all staff and officials to better understand domestic abuse and how to signpost people to specialist support. Together, we can make a difference!

Alarming surge in animal abandonments in Pembrokeshire

RECENT statistics have unveiled a distressing increase

in the number of animals abandoned in Pembrokeshire, with

a near 50% rise over the past three years. This surge reflects a nationwide crisis, as the UK grapples with unprecedented levels of animal abandonment.

In Pembrokeshire, the situation is particularly dire. From 32 cases in 2020, abandonments are expected to almost double to 59 by the end of 2023. The yearly breakdown reveals a steady increase: 39 in 2021, 41 in 2022, and already 48 reported cases in 2023, as per the latest data from the RSPCA.

Nationally, the RSPCA has received a staggering 17,838 reports of abandoned animals across England and Wales till October this year. This trend,

if uninterrupted, could result in over 21,400 reports by the end of 2023 – a significant jump from the 16,118 reports in 2020.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, local news has featured heart-wrenching stories, including a sixlegged puppy found in Pembroke Dock and newborn puppies left in Haverfordwest.

In Wales, the increase is even more pronounced. Abandonment reports have escalated by 61%, rising from 997 in 2020 to a projected 1,610 in 2023.

Dermot Murphy of the RSPCA emphasizes the ‘perfect storm’ created by the pandemic and cost of living crisis, leading to a sharp rise in abandonment

cases. He warns of an ‘unprecedented winter crisis’, with rescue centres nearing capacity and a surge in emergency calls. Murphy also highlights the individual stories of suffering behind these numbers, urging the public to support the RSPCA’s ‘Join the Christmas Rescue’ campaign. This initiative seeks donations to assist their teams in responding to the escalating crisis. With the RSPCA bracing for a busy festive season, public support has never been more crucial. The charity is calling for donations to help their teams provide urgent aid to the increasing number of animals facing neglect and abandonment.

Clintons visit Swansea University

FORMER US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and her husband, former US President Bill, shared their views about the challenges facing our future leaders with a packed audience at Swansea University’s Great Hall.

Back in Swansea for the first time since 2019, Secretary Clinton was joined by President Clinton for a public event hosted by the University and supported by the Welsh Government.

The couple were guests of honour at a special discussion which focused on current global challenges. They were joined on stage by the First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford MS, and the Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University, Professor Paul Boyle, for the conversation, which also emphasized the importance of engaging young people in leadership roles.

The 600-strong audience, which included Seren Network students from local schools and further education colleges, heard the former US Secretary of State touch on a wideranging series of issues, including national identity and nationalism, the climate crisis and challenges posed by

future technological developments.

She also urged young people to follow their ambitions, even in the face of difficulties.

She said: “If you think you can do a good job and you think you can make a difference, then you’ve got to get out there and try. I live by the idea that you take criticism seriously but not personally.

“You have to develop the confidence not to be overwhelmed by negative attacks and advice.”

She added: “Let’s try to get leaders who are willing to be held accountable, who take responsibility for their service, what they do and what they stand for. We need citizenship, not just leadership.”

President Clinton had more words of advice for the audience:

“In the world we live in, where people are killing each other over real and imagined differences, I think having an environment where one participates in decisionmaking that is civil and decent is important.

“I advocate getting to know some people that disagree with you and bringing people together in a way that feels safe to disagree.”

This latest visit to the University built on

the institution’s longstanding relationship with Secretary Clinton. It has seen her lend her name to its Hillary Rodham Clinton School of Law.

Urging the young people in the audience to play their role in Wales’s future, First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “I’m very much attached to the idea of the democracy of expertise. When you encounter an issue that needs to be addressed, the first question you ask yourself is not what somebody else will do about this but what contribution you can make to solving the problem.

“Everybody has a chance to get their voice heard and their

contribution recognized, but you have a responsibility as well, and that is to not to do the easy thing. The hard thing is to ask yourself what I can do to improve this.”

During their time in Swansea, Secretary and President Clinton also participated in a fundraising event supporting the University’s Sanctuary Scholarships programme, which provides opportunities for people seeking sanctuary in the UK to access higher education.

Professor Boyle said: “It has been an honour to further strengthen our friendship with Secretary Clinton and welcome President Clinton to Swansea for

the first time.

“We were delighted to showcase our University’s strengths and impact to our guests and share their time with us with so many local students and regional and national partners.

“We are extremely grateful to the Welsh Government for their support in delivering such a high-profile event for our region and Wales.”

Secretary Clinton, who has a family connection to Wales, first visited Swansea University in 2017 and has since returned several times to meet students on the Hillary Rodham Clinton Global Challenges Scholarship programme.

Škoda powers up new finance deals with free home charger on award-winning Enyaq range

ŠKODA has announced a new range of offers across its award-winning Enyaq range. A competitive finance package and a home charger or public charging voucher is available on both the Enyaq SUV and Enyaq Coupé.

The offers are open to all new Enyaq SUV and Coupé buyers and are available until the 31 January 2024. Customers looking to purchase an Enyaq can take advantage of 0% APR1 for up to three years with Solutions PCP, and choose either an Ohme home charger or a £500 Powerpass voucher for public charging.

Enyaq buyers selecting the Ohme home charger option can choose between a 7kW Ohme Home Pro unit that comes with a tethered five metre cable, or a 7kW Ohme ePod untethered unit. Both come with standard installation included, making it even easier for drivers looking to make

the switch to electric. For buyers who don’t take advantage of the home charger offer, Škoda will offer a £500 charging voucher code which can be redeemed through the Škoda Powerpass network. The network offers access

to more than 200,000 electric vehicle charging points across the UK and Europe and allows users to access both rapid DC chargers and AC destination chargers.

Customers who opt for the voucher can choose from three tariffs; Charge

Free, Simply Charge and Charge Faster. For drivers who use public chargers infrequently, the Charge Free tariff has no monthly cost and standard pricing. For drivers who rely on public charging more, the Simply Charge and Charge

Faster tariffs come with monthly subscription fees and discounted pricing for charging.

A full set of Škoda media assets, including images, videos and press packs are available at www.Škodamedia.com.

Hyundai IONIQ 5 triumphs at Professional Driver Magazine Awards

H YUNDAI ’ S pioneering all-electric IONIQ 5 continues its winning streak, clinching the Private Hire Car of the Year award at this year’s Professional Driver Car of the Year Awards.

Celebrating its 14th year, the Professional Driver Car of the Year Awards employ a rigorous evaluation process, involving over 100 judges, including industry professionals, experienced chauffeurs, and motoring editors. Over 40 vehicles competed in this year’s event, with the IONIQ 5 standing out for its exceptional suitability for private hire services.

Professional Driver Magazine Editor Mark Bursa praised the IONIQ 5, stating, “The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is already a favourite in the private hire market, primarily due to its exceptional interior space and distinctive design. Its significant electric range is a game-changer, enabling drivers to operate a full day without concerns of range anxiety.”

Tim White, Head of Section, Fleet Sales at Hyundai Motor UK said: “The IONIQ 5 was the first model built upon Hyundai’s dedicated E-GMP platform for fully electric vehicles, designed to deliver not only striking style but also excellent performance, handling, usability and comfort. With low running costs, one of the longest allelectric range figures in its competitive set and a cabin as spacious as a luxury limousine, it’s perfect for not only private hire drivers, but also for the broad spectrum of business and private buyers that we’ve seen choosing IONIQ 5 for their next

The awards, held at the Brighton Metropole Hotel, included a comprehensive evaluation process. Each vehicle underwent extensive testing, including on-road

assessments and a detailed examination of features critical to the private hire industry, such as navigation systems and boot space. Judges, experiencing the cars both as drivers and passengers, provided

a holistic view of each vehicle’s performance.

“This thorough and unbiased selection process reinforces the significance of the IONIQ 5’s victory,” commented Bursa. “It reflects our commitment

to recognizing the best in the industry, ensuring our readers have reliable insights for their vehicle choices.”

For more information about the Hyundai IONIQ 5 visit www.hyundai.com/ uk/en/models/ioniq5

Freemason donations help fund new lifesaving ambulance

GENEROUS donations from the Masonic Province for West Wales and the Masonic Charitable Foundation have helped St John Ambulance Cymru purchase a new ambulance vehicle to support its lifesaving work in Mid and West Wales communities and at large-scale national events.

An urgent ambulance appeal was launched after one of the charity’s ambulances was destroyed by a falling tree during a storm last year. Thankfully, nobody was hurt, but the incident left a gap in the charity’s services.

The Masonic Province for West Wales, a group committed to charitable giving, kindly donated a generous £7,500 to the appeal. This was matched by the Masonic Charitable Foundation for England and Wales, one of the largest grantmaking organisations in the country.

St John Ambulance Cymru’s Head of Fundraising, Communications and Engagement, Nichola Couceiro, said: “A new fully equipped ambulance costs more than £80,000, but as well as being expensive to replace, losing a vehicle so suddenly created additional challenges for our teams, especially given the rural nature of the Mid and West Wales region.

“With the help of the Gosling Foundation, general public and groups such as the Freemasons, St John Ambulance Cymru can now replace the damaged vehicle and continue with our lifesaving work in this region and beyond. A huge thanks to all that contributed to this appeal to help us get back on the road. Diolch!”

James Ross, Head of the Masonic Province for West Wales, commented, “We are

very proud to be able to support St John Ambulance Cymru. A new ambulance will help them with their potentially lifesaving work at events right across West Wales. They are a huge asset to our community.”

James Cordell, Deputy Commissioner for Dyfed and Nichola Couceiro, Head of Fundraising, Communications and Engagement, visited the Tenby Masonic Hall on November 10 to give a presentation to the Richard Warburton Lodge of Education and Research, detailing the different ways St John Ambulance Cymru serves Wales’ communities.

The £180 raised during the evening’s raffle was also donated to the first aid charity, along with two boxes of ‘Teddies for Loving Care’ for use across West Wales, with the Freemasons having donated a total of 3.5 million teddies to A&E departments and Air Ambulances in England and Wales as part of this scheme.

St John Ambulance Cymru supports the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust across the country, running vital healthcare initiatives like the Falls and Frailty Scheme and various patient transport services. The charity provides a gold standard of patient care, its services reduce ambulance wait times and, importantly, ease pressure on the NHS.

St John Ambulance Cymru volunteers also respond to emergencies during peak times and provide first aid at hundreds of events in the communities of Wales. This work saves lives and protects members of the community who are most in need.

You can learn more about St John Ambulance Cymru’s work by visiting www. sjacymru.org.uk.

Clinically vulnerable encouraged to get their winter vaccines.

THE Chief Medical Officer for Wales has called on people with clinical vulnerabilities to come forward for their winter vaccinations to protect themselves and the health service.

With just over a third of all those eligible having received their COVID-19 booster vaccination, Dr Frank Atherton said it was vital those most at risk of winter illnesses took up the offer of a COVID or flu vaccine when they are invited.

The most recent data from Public Health Wales shows that while uptake has been steady amongst those aged 65 and over, those in clinical risk groups have been slow to come forward.

Thousands of people in Wales are hospitalised with respiratory illnesses every winter. With demand on NHS Wales remaining high, vaccinations remain one of the best ways of helping reduce the pressure on the NHS this winter.

The Winter Respiratory Vaccination Programme was launched on 11 September 2023 and offers free COVID-19

and flu vaccines to people who are over 65 and younger people with clinical vulnerabilities.

Frontline health and social care workers have also been encouraged to come forward for a winter vaccine.

The Chief Medical Officer, Dr Frank Atherton said:

“Vaccination is the safest and most effective way of protecting those

who are particularly susceptible to respiratory viruses or at risk of being hospitalised. This is why I want to encourage everyone who is eligible for a free COVID-19 and flu vaccine to take up the offer. Getting vaccinated is the best action everyone can take to protect themselves and help prevent our health service becoming overwhelmed this winter.

“I want to thank all those who have come forward so far, and to encourage those who haven’t come forward yet, to get protected before the peak of the flu season, which often coincides with the greatest pressures on our hospitals and families getting together for the festive season.”

Health and Social Services Minister

Eluned Mogan said:

“I want to thank our immunisation teams in health boards and in Primary Care who are working so hard to deliver the Winter Respiratory Vaccination Programme. They have already delivered more than a million winter vaccinations in Wales this season. But if you are eligible and you haven’t come forward

yet, now is the time to get protected.”

Dr Christopher Johnson, Consultant Epidemiologist and Head of Public Health Wales’ Vaccine Preventable Disease Programme explains:

“Vaccination remains our best line of defence against serious disease. In the UK, each vaccine has gone through a rigorous safety approval process.

“Respiratory viruses thrive in the winter, with the very young, those with a health condition and the very old are particularly vulnerable. As the weather gets colder, viruses like flu are more easily spread. No-one wants to be ill over Christmas and New Year so it really is worth getting your vaccine.

“Any side effects from the vaccinations are normally mild and don’t last long. The chances of becoming seriously ill with flu or COVID-19 are greatly reduced by vaccination. Vaccines are safe, effective and save lives. I would encourage those who are eligible to take up their offer as soon as they are invited.”

Wards affected by RAAC planks set to re-open by end of the year

THREE of the six wards at Withybush Hospital which were closed due to the presence of RAAC planks are expected to be re-opened by Christmas.

In August, Hywel Dda University Health Board declared an internal major incident at the Pembrokeshire hospital in order to identify the scale and impact of the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) found in the hospital building.

This resulted in the closure of six of the hospital’s 12 wards along with areas on the ground floor and kitchen, including outpatients and clinic rooms.

Work has already begun on the groundworks for the new field kitchen which is expected to be up and running by December 4. The kitchen is currently out of bounds with an interim food service for patients operating from the restaurant dining area, with limited takeaway food available for staff.

Day Surgery treatments restarted in Withybush Hospital earlier this month although elective inpatient

Ward 9 at the Haverfordwest hospital has already reopened and is introducing cardiac patients back to its 14bed space. Another ward – Ward 12 – is due to reopen in mid-November. Ward 7 is expected to be completed by the end of December.

surgery at Withybush is currently running at a low level while repair work continues.

Work on the remaining wards is expected to be completed by the end of March 2024 with remedial work to ground floor locations, including the kitchen and outpatients’ area, expected to continue until Spring 2025.

Director of Operations

Andrew Carrurthers said:

“We are very pleased that the wards which were closed while we undertook essential repair work to the RAAC concrete planks are now either operating as normal or will be by Spring 2024.

“This has been a difficult time for staff as they have had to adapt

very quickly to a fastchanging situation and in some cases have had to work at different locations within the health board. They have showed incredible teamwork and resilience during a very challenging time, so I would like to thank them for their support.

“We have tried to keep disruption to a minimum, but I know patients and members of the public have also been affected by the ongoing survey and repair work. Some have had to be treated at alternative locations within the health board area, so my thanks to them for their patience and understanding.

“Survey and repair work will continue until Spring 2025, so there is some way to go before

Withybush hospital returns to a normal service. We will continue to engage with our staff, patients and the public and keep them informed of the latest development.”

RAAC is a material that was commonly used in the construction of buildings between the 1960s and 1990s. Its presence has been confirmed at Withybush hospital and at a limited part of Bronglais hospital. It has also been identified at a range of NHS properties and other public buildings such as schools, across the UK. Further information and FAQs are available on the Hywel Dda website RAAC - Hywel Dda University Health Board (nhs.wales).

Shared-spaces.co.uk

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Leader of plaid cymru visits swansea distillery

PLAID CYMRU

Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth and local Member of Senedd Sioned Williams paid a visit to the newly opened Penderyn Distillery in Swansea.

Based in the old copperworks, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS was delighted to learn about the links to the copper mines of his constituency, Ynys Môn, in the facility’s exhibition.

Copper produced in ‘Copperopolis’ – the old nickname for Swansea in the heyday of its copper-

producing days – is now used in the distillery itself.

Mr ap Iorwerth called the brand “inspiring” in how it reclaimed and embraced Wales’ history as part of its modern, ambitious business model. At the same time, Ms Williams noted the importance of the old heritage building being preserved and used for a new purpose in a way that will draw tourists to the area.

Chief Executive Stephen Davies showed Mr ap Iorwerth and Ms

Williams around the modern facilities.

Leader of Plaid Cymru, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, said: “Hearing about Stephen’s vision for the brand and seeing Penderyn’s continued determination to embrace Welsh culture is inspiring, and it shows us how we can build a modern, ambitious Wales that reflects our heritage and values.

“Penderyn’s copper whisky stills echo the industrial history of Wales from ‘Copperopolis’ Swansea to the copper

mines of Ynys Môn. This company is making its presence felt on a world stage and telling Wales’ past and present story as it does so.

“I wish Stephen and the team all the success on their latest venture here in Swansea.”

Sioned Williams MS, Plaid Cymru Member of Senedd for South Wales West, said: “It’s great to see this wonderful heritage building being preserved and used. It’s good to see businesses come to this area that bring local people

employment and draw many tourists into Swansea – something that will hopefully boost the local tourism industry.

“It’s so exciting to have such a prestigious brand in the area, and great to see the exhibition on the location’s history. The history of Swansea and the world-leading copperworks here is too important to forget, and it’s great to see how Penderyn have embraced the site’s history and incorporated it into their tourism facility.”

Betfred’s plans refused due to fears of anti-social behaviour

PLANS for a Betfred bookmakers in Haverfordwest town centre have been refused due to fears it would “increase the fear of crime and antisocial behaviour” and “negatively impact” the regeneration area.

Last December, Shaws the Drapers, at 6-7 Castle Square, went into liquidation, resulting in the closure of 28 shops throughout England and Wales, including Haverfordwest and Carmarthen.

Earlier this year, an application was submitted to county planners by Done Brothers (Cash Betting) Ltd for a change of use of the empty Shaws site to a Betfred betting shop.

Betfred – which already operates at nearby High Street – has been described as “the world’s biggest privately-

owned betting company and one of the UK’s biggest privately-owned retail outlets” by Agent ID Planning.

The existing Betfred would, if the application was successful, become vacant, and be marketed as a retail or commercial unit, the applicants have said.

ID Planning said that, despite marketing over a nine-month period, the Shaws property has been unable to secure a viable retail or other operator.

Two objections raised concerns including it would “give prominence to a business type associated with addictive behaviours and financial hardship,” and was “likely to compound the square as a socially-blighted space”.

A report for planners

said Castle Square is considered “the heart of the town centre in the county town of Haverfordwest and a gateway to the shopping streets that lead off it,” and was key to the ongoing ‘levelling up’ regeneration of the town.

It added: “Approval of the change of use would potentially result in an increased fear of crime and anti-social behaviour which would negatively impact on the council’s aim of regenerating the centre of the county town into a high-quality place to live, work and visit.”

The report warned that Betfred could decide to retain its existing High Street unit, or another bookies may occupy it, with the “potential for a proliferation of betting shops in a small area would be to the detriment of the health and wellbeing of people who have

problems with gambling”.

It added: “The type of use is synonymous with a fear of crime and antisocial behaviour, and therein would negatively impact on the council’s aim to regenerate the area into a high-quality place to live, work and visit.

“Furthermore, adjoining the subject site to the north is public house Friars Vault. The coming and going of customers between the pub and the betting shop would add to the unwelcoming feel of the area to its detriment, increasing the fear of crime

and anti-social behaviour, negatively impacting upon the council’s aim to regenerate the area into a high-quality place to live, work and visit.”

Planners refused the application on the grounds it would lead to a permanent loss of retail floorspace, and “the occupation of the unit with a betting shop is not considered a positive approach to supporting the regeneration and growth of Haverfordwest of which Castle Square is the civic open space at the heart of the town centre”.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Protected status for two Pembrokeshire food and drink businesses

THE Pembrokeshire Beach Food Company and Velfrey Vineyard are celebrating after joining a list of Welsh producers in seeing their products awarded protected status.

Velfrey Vineyard has been awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for its Velfrey NV Traditional Method Sparkling Brut and ‘Rhosyn’ 2021 Traditional Method Vintage Sparkling Brut Rosé wines.

Based at The Old Point House in East Angle Bay, the Pembrokeshire Beach Food company has been given Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status for its Welsh Laverbread.

The PGI and PDO schemes protect the name of a product which comes from a specific region and follow a certain production process.

Velfrey Vineyard, located near Narberth, is the current Food & Drink Wales Small Drinks

Producer of the Year.

Established in 2016, Velfrey has over 4,000 vines planted across three acres, and is a family-run vineyard which prides itself on attention to every detail.

The wines are made from three grape varieties, notably Pinot Noir, Seyval Blanc, and Solaris. The vineyard is run by husband-and-wife Andy and Fiona Mounsey along with their son Ryan and his wife Sophie.

Andy Mounsey at Velfrey Vineyard said:

“We are delighted to have been awarded PGI status for wines made from grapes grown in our Pembrokeshire vineyard. Not only does this provide assurance to our customers about the wines’ provenance and quality, it also allows us to proudly proclaim on the labels that this is Welsh sparkling wine.

“Our NV sparkling brut has been selected by a

panel of distinguished judges from WineGB as one of the UK’s top 100 wines, while our newly launched Rhosyn is getting both plaudits and orders from highly knowledgeable sommeliers.

“It’s fantastic that wine from Pembrokeshire is achieving this kind of recognition.”

In 2010, Café Môr was started by Jonathan Williams who has a passion for seafood. In

2012, after establishing the business, it attracted investment and became part of the Pembrokeshire Beach Food Company.

Laverbread is made from cooked laver (seaweed) which has been plucked by hand from the Welsh coastline and is rooted in Welsh history as a vital source of nutrition.

Welsh Laverbread was awarded PDO status in 2017 to celebrate its inherent ties to Welsh seascapes and communities.

Jonathan Williams at The Pembrokeshire Beach Food Company said: “Laverbread is an important part of Pembrokeshire food history and we are absolutely delighted to receive this status.

“We currently use laverbread in our seaweed butter, Lobster Welsh Rarebit and even in our Welsh cakes.

“PDO status means consumers have the confidence knowing they

are eating the genuine Welsh product. We will continue to ensure it is cooked to the highest of standards so people from near and far can enjoy our Welsh laverbread.”

Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths said:

“It is great news two Pembrokeshire food and drink businesses are seeing their fantastic products deservedly awarded protected status.

“Laverbread is a Welsh delicacy and Jonathan and the team’s hard work and commitment to producing a high-quality product from our beautiful coastline is being rightly recognised.

“Wales also produces some of the finest, most globally recognised innovative wine. The Welsh wine industry is thriving and Velfrey Vineyard is an important part of this success.

“A huge congratulations to both companies.”

anyone could think that the Tory Government are giving us their own, judging by the antics of Suella Braverman.

The Liberal Democrats are calling on Suella Braverman to donate her severance pay to homelessness charities, as the party reveals it could fund an estimated 844 tents for the homeless.

After she was sacked as Home Secretary, Braverman will be entitled to £16,876 in severance pay.

Following her “appalling” comments that homelessness is a “lifestyle choice”, the Lib Dems said she should donate any money that she receives in her severance package to homelessness charities.

One charity supporting homeless people estimates the cost of a tent at £19.99, meaning that Braverman’s severance pay could fund 844 tents.

Liberal Democrat Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson, Helen Morgan MP said: “Suella Braverman disgraced the office of Home Secretary and it is an indictment on Rishi Sunak’s weakness that he appointed her in the first place.”

“Her comments about homelessness being a lifestyle choice were truly appalling and someone with that kind of callous attitude towards the most vulnerable should have been nowhere near high office.”

“Braverman should certainly not be rewarded in any way for her toxic time in the Home Office.”

“I would hope that she has reflected on her words and realises just how out of line they were and donates any money that she receives in her severance package to homelessness charities. It is the least Braverman can do after her deeply disrespectful and disturbingly out of touch comments.”

Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesperson Sarah Olney MP, commented on the Chancellor’s new ‘Back to Work’ plan, Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesperson Sarah Olney MP said: “This Government doesn’t understand that thousands of people with long-term health issues are desperate to get back to work, but Ministers’ failure to tackle NHS waiting lists is stopping them.”

W

ITH ANDREW LYE

“This announcement does absolutely nothing for these people.”

“This Government seems more interested in penalising people than helping them get back into work or get treatment for health conditions preventing them from working.”

“The best way to get people back to work and our economy growing again is to fix the crisis in our health service.”

“And there’s more”, as those of us old enough to remember comedian, Jimmy Cricket’s catchphrase.

In response to the PM’s announcement that he will introduce emergency legislation in an attempt to force through his Rwanda policy, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson, Alistair Carmichael MP said: “Instead of admitting defeat and concentrating on real solutions to the mess that is the asylum system, Rishi Sunak has doubled down on failure.”

“If the Prime Minister was serious about fixing our broken asylum system, he would focus on tackling the backlog and opening safe and legal routes. Not on these unworkable gimmicks that only serve to grab headlines.”

“All this new path will achieve is throwing more taxpayers money onto the bonfire of Conservative mismanagement.”

And finally, back to the Tory Panto season, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs Spokesperson Alistair Carmichael MP responded to Suella Braverman’s letter to Rishi Sunak.“This is yet more Conservative chaos. Suella Braverman failed at every task at hand as Home Secretary and now she seems determined to drag everyone else down with her.”

“While people struggle to see their GP or pay their mortgages, this government is too busy dealing with their own infighting.”

“When will this Conservative Party soap opera end?”

Myself, I fail to understand why the Tory Party have not suspended her from the Party. She is out of control and seems determined to bring down the PM. Surely Tory party MP’s have signed up to standing orders that lay out their behaviour to colleagues within their own Party?

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Welsh Government consults on school year changes

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT opened a consultation about changing the school calendar on Tuesday, November 21.

The Welsh Government wants to spread breaks more evenly throughout the school year, including a 2-week half-term autumn break.

The current school calendar means that the autumn term is longer than others. Research suggests this term is tiring and challenging for learners and staff, as more teaching is squeezed into this term than any other.

CHANGES COULD BENEFIT DISADVANTAGED

The number of days of school holidays and teaching days will not change.

Some pupils, especially those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds and those with Additional Learning Needs (ALN), find it difficult to return to learning after long summer breaks.

Because the summer break is long, the autumn term has to be devoted to going over things rather than advancing learning. Teachers also report more behavioural and well-being issues after the summer break.

Under the new proposal, a week would be taken from the start of the summer break and added to the October break so that staff and learners get more time to rest during the long autumn term.

Teachers and pupils will still get 13 weeks of break, but some will be moved so they happen when they provide the most benefit.

These changes would be made from September 2025, meaning schools would get a two-week break in October 2025 and a five-week summer break in 2026.

TEACHERS AND TORIES EXPRESS DOUBTS

Teachers oppose changes to an academic calendar based on the pre-industrial revolution teaching pattern of Oxford University.

Emma Forrest, NEU Assistant General Secretary Regions, Wales, and Legal Strategy, said: “NEU is disappointed that the Welsh Government has chosen this time to propose changes to the pattern of the school year.

“It’s a really difficult time in education. The education workforce has seen significant periods of change to implement the new curriculum and significant additional learning needs and Reform.

“The Welsh Government must provide a clear rationale for Reform.

“Any changes need to be evidence-based and ensure the workforce’s well-being.

“Any changes must also show how they would benefit children and young people’s learning.

“NEU Cymru will be consulting with our members over the proposals.”

Welsh Conservative Shadow Education Minister Laura Anne Jones MS said: “There are many issues with Labour’s plans to reform the school year, with the biggest impact potentially being felt by pupils, teachers and parents. As well as an already struggling tourism sector.

“The Labour Government must learn the lesson from their disastrous 20mph consultation and listen to parents and teachers before they move forward with any plans.

“Although we support reforming the school day, Reform to both the day and the holiday cannot take place without compelling hard evidence on why it is needed and

the positive difference it would make to pupils and teachers. This must not be based on perception or opinion.”

FURTHER CHANGES PLANNED

The consultation will also explore additional changes that could be taken forward in the future, but not from 2025. These changes include the option of moving a second week from the summer break and adding it to the Whitsun break. This would help make terms similar lengths and the summer term more consistent, making it easier for pupils to learn and teachers to plan.

In this case, GCSE and A Level results days could happen in the same week. This will be explored over the coming years in the same timeframe as the rollout of our Made-for-Wales qualifications.

The proposal would also make the spring term easier to plan for. The two-week break in the spring always coincides with Easter, which moves around.

Keeping the spring break at a constant midpoint and separating it from Easter would make the term more consistent. Easter Monday and Good Friday public holidays would still apply. Teaching time for these days would be made up elsewhere in the year.

LONG SUMMER BREAK BAD FOR FAMILIES

Looking at different school term dates is part of the Co-Operation Agreement with Plaid Cymru.

Jeremy Miles, the Minister for Education and the Welsh Language, said: “The long summer break can be a real strain. Families struggle to find childcare over the six weeks, and others struggle with the additional costs long

summers bring. We also know our most disadvantaged learners suffer the most ‘learning loss’ from a long summer.

“There are plenty of examples of local authorities across the UK changing their school calendar to suit local needs.

“We want to make sure education works best for pupils, teachers, and families. We’re

looking for people’s views on these changes and what it would mean for them.”

Designated Member Sian Gwenllian said:

“The current school calendar was designed long ago, under very different circumstances. We suggest changes that could work better for everyone, but most importantly for pupils of all ages.”

Jason Elsom, the Chief Executive of PTA organisation Parentkind, responded: “Our recent poll of 6,800 parents in Wales revealed that most parents support a move to spread school holidays more evenly across the year, with 72% of lowerincome families in favour.

“It is fair to say that

of

in inflated childcare and family holiday costs, compounding the challenges faced during the cost-of-living crisis.

“Most importantly, this impacts the life experiences and chances of the most vulnerable of children.

“We are pleased to see this consultation by the Welsh Government.”

Paul Davies Calls for Urgent Action over Eye Care Waiting Lists

SENEDD MEMBER

Paul Davies has called for urgent action over alarming statistics which show that less than half of patients waiting for eye care treatment have actually been

seen within the target date or within 25% beyond their target date for an outpatient appointment. The latest statistics from the Welsh Government show that only 46.6% of patients in the

Hywel Dda University Health Board area have been assessed, despite those patients being at risk of irreversible harm.

Mr Davies said, “It’s very worrying to read that less than half

BLUE VIEW

BY STEPHEN CRABB

OVER the past few weeks, £454,250 has been paid into community bank accounts right across Pembrokeshire from UK Government. This money has come directly from the Government’s Community Ownership Fund and accessed by dedicated volunteer groups across the County for the purchase of community assets to benefit residents.

At a time when we are seeing the withdrawal of amenities and services from some our more rural and isolated communities – this fund has been a welcome boost. It has really made a difference in protecting local services, and in strengthening our social fabric. By allowing the community to come together to take control of buildings and spaces that matter to them, and use the spaces in ways that meet the needs and priorities of the immediate community, it is having a powerful and transformative impact.

amenity in the rural village. It was good to catch up with so many familiar faces and see the pub and hub packed with different generations of villagers brought together with help from the UK Government.

And they are not alone in sharing these special moments. The communities in Newport, Crymych, Haverfordwest have all benefited too from the UK Community Ownership Fund. This fund has allowed groups to purchase the hardware store in Newport, convert the Crymych Arms into a sporting and wellbeing hub in Crymych, and transform the old post office building in Haverfordwest into an important community space right in the town centre. And there are more projects in the pipeline.

of all patients with an urgent eye problem are being seen in an appropriate time. These patients are often living in discomfort and pain and the longer they wait for treatment, the more they risk irreversible harm or blindness.”

“These statistics should be a wake up call for Hywel Dda University Health Board who must prioritise this as a matter or urgency. It is not acceptable for patients to be waiting this long for treatment and action must be taken immediately before it’s too late. Efforts must be redoubled to recruit ophthalmologists and the Welsh Government need to do more to support the Health Board to improve access to services and ensure the Health Board has the staff and resources required to bring down these waiting lists.”

And I’ve been fortunate to witness the impact this fund is having first-hand through my meetings with the many committee groups involved in accessing the fund. I have seen the very application process itself bring people from all backgrounds together to share skills, knowledge and experience – and to be drivers of change in their own areas. The community share schemes that have been set up have allowed not only vital funds to be raised, but has also encouraged others to support and take ownership in the shared vision for their communities.

On Friday, I had the pleasure of joining the committee members of Y Cross Cas-Lai in Hayscastle Cross to witness the result of their application process – a joyous community celebration as the village pub and hub reopened to the community - under the control of the community. It was a special moment to see the outcome of the committee’s hardwork and determination to save the last community

It has shown what can be achieved when communities work together, and it’s been deeply rewarding as the local Member of Parliament to work with these groups to help fight for, and secure, the money for Pembrokeshire from the UK Government in Westminster.

But I think there are many more projects in the county that could benefit from this fund. Any asset must be at risk of closure, sale or neglect without community involvement, and continue to be of community benefit in the future. Up to £250,000 is available to buy or lease an asset or pay for refurbishment costs on buildings or land which is used for the well-being or social interest of the local community. Please get in contact with me for more details or to discuss a potential project.

PARENTS WELCOME CONSULTATION

the current concentration

school holidays in the summer months results

Jeremy Miles: Minister discusses proposed school year changes

WG plans to introduce road-charging

MARK DRAKEFORD’s claim that the Welsh Government had no plans to introduce road charging has been shot down in flames by ... the Welsh Government.

New legislation introduced by the Welsh Government makes a mockery of reassurances about road charging the First Minister gave in October.

Following the controversy over his administration’s introduction of a default 20mph speed limit across Wales, Mr Drakeford answered questions in the Senedd on October 3.

One of the Conservative frontbench team, Janet FinchSaunders, asked Mark Drakeford if his government planned to introduce road charging.

The First Minister

answered: “The UK Secretary of State holds powers to implement universal road charging and to retain revenues for Transport.

“Welsh Ministers can provide powers to local authorities to implement local schemes. There are no plans to introduce charges for motorists on Welsh Governmentmanaged trunk roads.”

Smelling a rat, Mrs Finch-Saunders pressed the First Minister further.

Mr Drakeford doubled down.

“Let me repeat the answer so that the Member can ensure she is telling people who contact her the truthful position.

“There are no plans— here’s the answer; this is what you need to tell people should they ask you. There are no plans - no plans - to introduce charges for motorists

on Welsh Governmentmanaged trunk roads. That should put the rumours to bed.”

This week, the Welsh Government published a bill to address air quality and noise pollution in Wales.

Sections 19-21 of the Bill and one of its schedules refer directly to the introduction of road charging and set out the mechanisms by which it could be imposed.

Among the options available to explain Mark Drakeford’s responses in the Senedd, apart from the obvious one, are that he forgot or didn’t know what was in the legislation (unlikely since Janet Finch-Saunders referred directly to it) or that the Welsh Government seeks powers it has no intention of using (in which case, they should not be in the Bill).

Both are unlikely.

When he appeared before the Senedd’s Climate Change Committee to discuss the Bill, Deputy Climate Change Minister Lee Waters said he was “very attracted by the principle” of using money raised through road charging to improve active travel infrastructure.

However, he said separating the revenue raised from other income would be “problematic for a whole host of other knock-on consequences”.

Of course, Mr Drakeford could simply refer to the absence of current plans. Future

plans are another thing altogether.

It’s better to be disingenuous than an outright liar.

To establish the truth, The Herald asked the Welsh Government how the Bill’s content was compatible with the First Minister’s clear ruling out road charging to the Senedd on October 3.

A Welsh Government spokesperson told us: “The Transport Act 2000 provides Welsh Ministers with powers to introduce trunk road charging schemes on Welsh roads under limited circumstances.

“The provisions at sections 21 and 22, and Schedule 2, of the Bill (as amended at Stage 2), create additional circumstances which would enable Welsh Ministers to introduce schemes to reduce or limit air pollution in the vicinity of a trunk road.

“These powers, if carried by the Senedd, will provide a tool of last resort to tackle persistent air pollution hot spots should this be necessary in the future.”

In the present, Mr Drakeford’s attempt at intellectually dishonest wordplay stands revealed for what it is.

Cynical wordplay: Drakeford claims road-charging powers do not mean plans

Covid Inquiry unmasks dysfunctional Government

WITH all the high theatre of politics over recent weeks and months, it is easy to forget that there is a monumental public inquiry on the go into the recent Covid pandemic. Writes Jonathan Edwards MP.

Considering the next General Election will likely be framed for the most part on spending differences of a few dozen billion pounds between the Conservatives and Labour party, it’s sobering to realise that Covid related expenditure cost the Treasury an incredible up to £410bn according to the House of Commons Library.

The emerging picture confirms our worst fears: a toxic cocktail of incompetence, carelessness, and incoherence.

Furthermore, private messages revealed to the Inquiry indicate the complete contempt with which senior Ministers and Advisers held each other.

Essentially, the country was in the hands of a Prime Minister who thought he could wish away a global pandemic. He changed his mind continuously and needed an idiot’s guide to explain basic medical modelling.

The Chancellor then initiated a risky ‘Eat

Out to Help Out’ policy without even consulting the Chief Scientific Adviser, torpedoing the Government’s ad nauseam repeated line that they ‘were following the science’.

Sir Patrick Vallance and Sir Chris Whitty are by now aware that ‘following the science’ is code for dumping the fallout for the aftermath on them, so shameless has our political leadership become.

In Wales, the Welsh Government built kudos by appearing to be slightly more cautious than the UK Government.

It was very clever positioning but based far more on the politics of the situation as opposed to one based on public health considerations had Ministers been operating in isolation from the other UK countries.

As the First Minister has admitted, Welsh Government decisionmaking “has been inextricably linked to consideration of the wider UK science and policy landscape.” Code for “not our fault, guv’nor.”

The Inquiry has remarkably uncovered how our health minister at the time, and one of the favourites to be our next First Minister, hadn’t read a key document on pandemic preparedness

when in post. No wonder the Welsh Government refused to agree to a Welsh-specific Inquiry.

Before I am accused of making Captain Hindsight political attacks, I can’t imagine the pressure Ministers at both ends of the M4 were under during the pandemic.

Nobody had dealt with anything of this magnitude before. The competing tensions between economic interests and public health must have been huge, and that is before we go into political considerations.

From personal experience, the pressure was immense. I would never want to experience anything like that ever again.

Ministers, however, have the benefit of expert advice. Opposition politicians, for the most part, are reliant on the same information available to the public. And, at the end of the day, Ministers make the decisions.

Due to the enormity of the decisions they were making, in terms of the lives lost and the cost to the public purse, thorough scrutiny of the strategies implemented by all four UK Governments must be thoroughly scrutinised.

Whilst much of the media interest is focused on the

personality clashes at the heart of the crisis, what really interests me is the dysfunctionality at the heart of public life in the UK. I remember having a friendly chat with a senior Tory who told me, “Jonathan, what you have to remember is that there are only two modes in the Conservative party. Complacency and panic.”

After all these years as a Member of Parliament, that probably sums up politics in one sentence. There is no long-term planning of any note, and anything with a wide horizon is subject to change at the drop of a hat.

Social media and a news cycle that operates in real-time have made matters worse.

The only way I can see forward is a greater emphasis on cross-party cooperation on major long-term challenges such as climate policy, geographical wealth disparity and public service funding to remove them from the combat theatre of everyday politics.

Whilst short-termism prevails at the core of our politics, it is difficult to see how we will deal with the long-term challenges we face, let alone better cope with another event like a pandemic.

THE UK Government’s Autumn Budget, came bearing early Yuletide gifts this week… or did it?

Nearly five weeks before Christmas, the UK Government announced a “package” of measures – aimed cynically perhaps at averting a catastrophic electoral disaster at the polls.

The measures included reducing the rate of National Insurance contributions by a whopping 2 pence from January, meaning that someone on an “average” UK salary of £34,963 a year would save around £450 a year.

Of course, we need to bear in mind that according to the same source, Statista, the “average” salary in Wales is around 7.4% less than the UK average and as research by the Office for National Statistics and Ofgem shows, Wales has borne the brunt of higher energy costs.

The crux of this is that the “average” worker in Wales is unlikely to derive much benefit from the meagre 2% cut. This is another example of workers in Wales being misled by successive UK Government “promises”.

Other budget measures designed to induce some early Christmas cheer included freezing alcohol duty until 1st August 2024, cutting national insurance for the selfemployed, increasing Universal Credit in line with inflation, extending the 75% business rates discount for companies in the leisure and retail industries for another year, full state pension rises of 8.5% a year, and increasing the local housing allowance rates. Lastly, the measures announced also included tax breaks for big businesses in the UK.

While no one doubts that the self-employed, pensioners and the leisure and retail industries deserve a much needed helping hand, tax breaks for “big business” sounds like a running theme from this and previous UK Governments.

And even as “tax breaks” were announced, the Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) warned that the tax burden would increase to levels not seen since 1948. As salaries increase, the

tax thresholds remain the same, meaning around four million people in the UK will be moved into higher tax brackets, while inflation is double the target set by the Bank of England.

With the UK still experiencing an unprecedented cost-ofliving crisis, these measures are nothing more than piecemeal approaches, designed to mitigate the advantage that the UK Labour party seems to have in the polls.

Indeed, the record in Wales speaks for itself. We are experiencing record poverty and child poverty levels. The trends in child poverty in Wales appear to be historic and reflect UK Government austerity policies according to a 2013 Government Social Research report – indicating a wider problem than the current cost-of-living crisis.

While the Co-operation Agreement has seen free meals introduced to primary school children in Wales, we do not have the tools at our disposal to address the economic challenges that we face.

We do not have powers to reform the Welfare system for instance.

The Institute for Welsh Affairs, which has argued in favour of borrowing powers for Wales, suggests that the Barnett formula impacts the Welsh Government’s ability to deal with major challenges facing Welsh public service delivery and the Welsh economy.

Of course, borrowing powers is impossible without independence. But support for independence is rising.

In 2022, a major report by Professor John Doyle concluded that Wales’ fiscal deficit would be closer to £2.26 bn – 80% less than the figure trotted out by UK Government.

Rather than asking whether we can afford to be independent, the question being increasingly asked is whether we can afford not to be, as financial forecasts continue to spell bad news. Independence would afford us the full spending, tax raising and borrowing powers that we so desperately need.

death notices

OLWYDD (OLLIE) DAVIES

DAVIES Olwydd Davies (Ollie) Formerly of Simpson Cross Peacefully at Withybush Hospital on November 10th aged 84. Much loved she will be missed by all her family and many friends. Funeral service, Monday 27th November, 11.30am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Family flowers only. Donations towards Wales Air Ambulance www. walesairambulance.com. All enquiries to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors (01437) 763821.

PHILIP GREVILLE

HUGHES VANNER

VANNER Philip Greville Hughes Pembroke The death occurred peacefully at his home on Sunday 5th November of Mr. Philip Greville Hughes Vanner, Trinity House Pilot (Rtd.) He was 89. Dearly loved husband of Monica, devoted dad to Rachel, Nicholas and Lucy and a loving grandad of Olivia. The funeral will take place on Friday 24th

November with a service at Lamphey Parish Church at 1.30pm followed by a private family interment. Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Philip for The RNLI 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.

ELVIRA MARIA SARRA (IAFOLLA) Sarra (Iafolla) Elvira Maria It is with great sadness that the family of Mrs Elvira Maria (Iafolla) Sarra announce that she died peacefully on 12th November 2023 at Withybush Hospital aged 87. She was pre-deceased by her husband Amedeo Sarra retired farmer. Elvira was born on the 14th December, 1935 in the Prov. L’Aquila, Italy & immigrated to the UK in 1952. She will be lovingly remembered by her son Romeo & his wife Tania and her daughter Maria & her husband Richard. She will be sadly missed by her five grandchildren Laura, James, Alessia, Nichole

and Marco, and four greatgrandchildren Eva, William, Archer and Azzurra. The funeral will be held at St David and St Patrick Catholic Church, Haverfordwest on Wednesday 29th November 2023 at 11:00 am.

DENYS MAxWELL

RAVENHILL

RAVENHILL Denys Maxwell Pembroke Dock (Formerly of Pembroke) The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Saturday 4th. November of Mr. Denys Ravenhill of Charles Thomas Avenue, Pembroke Dock and formerly of Croeso Road, Pembroke. The funeral will take place on Friday 1st December with a service at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 2.30.pm. Family flowers only please but if desired, donations in lieu in memory of Denys for The Chemotherapy Day Unit at Withybush Hospital and The British Heart Foundation may be sent to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out

the arrangements.

RHODRI AVESTON ROBERTS

ROBERTS Rhodri Aveston Rosehill Lodge, Rosehill, Portfield Gate. The death of Mr Rhodri Aveston Roberts, aged 94, occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Saturday 18th November. His son, Martyn, and daughter-in-law, Jo, were with him. Prior to moving to stay with his family in Rosehill three years ago, Rhodri had lived his whole life in Slade Lane, Haverfordwest, including in Rhocemar, which he designed, and was built in the garden of his birthplace, Hobby Back. Rhodri was the beloved husband of the late Celia, and he was adored by Martyn, Jo and his granddaughter Evelyn. The funeral service will take place at St Martin’s Church, Haverfordwest, followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Dates and timings have yet to be confirmed. Family flowers only, but donations in lieu, if desired, direct to the Alzheimer’s Society and the Paul Sartori Foundation.

Funeral arrangements will be carried out by: Roy Folland & Son Haverfordwest Tel: 01437 763821.

FREDRICK DONALD COGGER

COGGER Fredrick Donald Milford Haven The death occurred suddenly but peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Friday 17th November of Fredrick Donald Cogger, aged 93 years, formerly of Stone Court, Milford Haven. Devoted husband of the late Sybil, dearly loved father to Stephen and Neil, adored grandfather to Gemma, Christopher and David, and cherished great grandfather of Sophie. The funeral will take place on Thursday 30th November at 3.15pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Immediate family flowers only. All enquiries to Tom Newing & Sons Ltd., Funeral Directors, Milford Haven. Telephone 01646 693180.

REDRICK DONALD COGGER

ROBERTS Rhodri Aveston Rosehill Lodge, Rosehill, Portfield Gate. The death of

Mr Rhodri Aveston Roberts, aged 94, occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest on Saturday 18th November. His son, Martyn, and daughter-in-law, Jo, were with him. Prior to moving to stay with his family in Rosehill three years ago, Rhodri had lived his whole life in Slade Lane, Haverfordwest, including in Rhocemar, which he designed, and was built in the garden of his birthplace, Hobby Back. Rhodri was the beloved husband of the late Celia, and he was adored by Martyn, Jo and his granddaughter Evelyn. The funeral service will take place at St Martin’s Church, Haverfordwest, followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth. Dates and timings have yet to be confirmed. Family flowers only, but donations in lieu, if desired, direct to the Alzheimer’s Society and the Paul Sartori Foundation. Funeral arrangements will be carried out by: Roy Folland & Son Haverfordwest Tel: 01437 763821.

Pause for thought...

If I was asked to name my favourite bit of the New Testament I would have to choose Paul’s letter to the Philippians. It has been number one on my list ever since I studied it in depth while training for the Baptist ministry, and I am particularly thankful that I can study the original Greek text. This has proved such an enriching experience, and it has certainly helped me appreciate the subtlety of Paul’s thoughts much more than if I was confined to English translations.

Take the opening section. Paul was clearly using a very conventional form of letter writing because he begins by giving thanks to God. One modern translation puts it in these words: ‘Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now’.

The Philippian believers had certainly proved faithful partners. The letter makes that abundantly clear. They had helped him on more than one occasion despite their povertystricken condition and they had done it again recently even though he was in prison probably in Rome or Ephesus. Is it any wonder then, that he tells them they are his ‘joy’ and his ‘crown’?

But it is worth noticing that the original Greek can be translated in a very different way, and that Paul was actually telling them that he was thankful for the many times they had remembered him in the past. But whichever way we read Paul’s words they are a helpful reminder that we should remember the things others have done for us in the past too and that there are times when we should make the effort to show our gratitude. Don’t ever underestimate the potential impact of a simple ‘Thank

you’. I realised that again a few weeks ago when an old friend took time out to apologise for not thanking me for something I did for her family more than twenty years ago! It was such a brief conversation but I found it so encouraging. So do you want to make someone’s Christmas happier? If you do why don’t you thank them for something they have done for you? Paul expressed his thanks in a letter, but you could send a card or an email. A phone call could be a blessing too, or even better you could invite them for coffee, and dare I say a cake?

However you choose to do it though, you can rest assured that you will make your own Christmas happier too because thankful people are happier people. In fact, one psychologist has gone so far as to suggest that practicing gratitude can increase our happiness by twenty-five per cent!

ROB JAMES

EMAIL

GET A SMART METER TO BENEFIT FROM OFFSHORE WIND POWER

DEAR SIR,

Your readers will no doubt have been asked by their electricity suppliers to have a smart meter fitted, or seen adverts urging this on social media, if they don’t already have one. Many are wondering though what more can possibly they do as they are already very careful with switching things off

What many don’t realise is that having a smart meter means you can get a smart tariff, and this is where big savings can be made without actually reducing how much electricity they use. This might seem odd,

but it’s all down to how the wholesale electricity market works

The national grid is operated by the Electricity System Operator (ESO) who make sure there is always enough power flowing into the grid to match the power being used. This means buying power from different generators, at different prices, at different times, with the result that the wholesale price of electricity sold to your supplier changes every 30 minutes. When it’s very windy out at sea, and the wind turbines are spinning furiously, more electricity than is needed may be produced, so the wholesale price is very low and everything not needed is exported to other countries

However, a typical tariff is a fixed price per kWh at all times of day - unless

you have a smart tariff! There are many on offer from different suppliers including ones that have a different price every 30 minutes every day, and sometimes the price is so low your supplier will pay you to use electricity (eg Octopus Agile). If you are able to move when you use electricity, eg when you put on the washing machine or dryer (known in the jargon as demand shifting) you can move from an expensive time to a cheap time, without actually using any less electricity. We reduced our electricity bills by 1/3 doing exactly this, without reducing how much we used!

As renewables become more and more dominant as suppliers to the grid, in particular the huge offshore wind farms which will be the majority of supply in

future, the benefits of smart tariffs, only possible to those with smart meters, will get greater and greater.

The sooner your readers get themselves a smart meter and a smart tariff, the sooner they can start saving money

Dr Jonathan F Dean

Cynefin Bachau

BEADS FOR THE NATIVES!

DEAR SIR,

So the offer is finally on the table. How much will Wales get paid for acting as a “transmission corridor” to get wind power from Scotland to England?

The U.K. Government has just announced that

when the new 55 m high line of 400,000 volt pylons are built all the way from Bangor in the north to Swansea in the south, so that electricity made in Scotland, brought to Bangor under the sea, can get to southern England, will get paid:

Up to £1,000 a year for ten years off your electricity bill if you live very close to the pylons

£200,000 per km

as a lump sum to local communities (so maybe £50 million for the whole of Wales)

Of course, if Bute Energy/Green Gen Cymru get to build their two lines of pylons in mid Wales, there is NO CASH on offer for the impact of the pylons, only for the wind farms they want to build, as these pylons are not transmission pylons, only distribution

Picture of the week!

St Davids by Andy Vaughan

pylons Is this the future we want for Wales? Turning un-spoilt landscapes into industrial power stations just to benefit others?

The windy seas of Wales have the potential to generate MASSES of clean, green electricity, twice the amount needed for Wales to reach net zero, and all the power can be transmitted under the sea (just like the power from Scotland), but instead the Welsh Government want onshore wind farms (that aren’t necessary) and the U.K. Government just offer “beads for the natives” Sad, sad, sad!

Sign the petition

https://petitions.senedd. wales/petitions/245471

Dr Jonathan F Dean Trustee: Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales

THE CHRISTMAS TREE CONUNDRUM

DEAR SIR,

PCC Cabinet on November 6th decided to introduce a fee of £5 per real Christmas tree collection fee. This item was debated for less than 4 minutes with no questions raised and passed unanimously.

PCC since 2016 had a free Christmas tree collection service & the use of this service has grown annually with 1818 trees collected in 2022.

The evidence is fairly clear that the demand for this service is made primarily by residents in our most deprived wards. The claim is made that by

charging £5 per tree may save PCC approx £10k. However, there is no certainty that £10k will be saved! In the worst case scenario PCC may save little to nothing through the removal of this much appreciated free service at a time of year when many households budgets are under pressure in giving their families the Christmas they deserve.

I along with a number of Independent Group Cllrs have invoked the call-in procedure to challenge this decision and call upon PCC Cabinet to immediately reinstate the free Christmas tree collection service which has been utilised by many who have no means of transporting their tree to a refuse/recycling centre. The call-in will be debated on November 20th at County Hall.

Cllr Huw Murphy. Newport & Dinas Ward. Ardal Trefdraeth a Dinas.

STOP SUBSIDISING BIOMASS

DEAR SIR,

Whilst our attention is necessarily focused on the awful genocide being perpetrated by the Israel on the Palestinian population in Gaza we must not forget another existential threat that our government refuses to deal withclimate change. Drax, the biomass power plant in Yorkshire, is the UK’s biggest emitter of carbon dioxide and shamefully receives £1.7 million every day in so-called ‘renewable’

subsidies. As the UK’s largest polluter and burner of trees it must bestopped. Taxpayers money should not be wasted on dangerous and unethical power stations like this. Drax must be closed and the money supporting it should instead be used to modernise and upgrade the national electricity grid and put in more renewable energy sources that can provide cheap and non polluting energy for us all.

Angie Zelter

CONTROVERSIAL SCHOOL HOLIDAY PLANS

DEAR SIR,

Adjusting the school calendar in Wales is a huge task and it’s crucial that there is a full and frank discussion about these plans. Should the school calendar change, it would have an impact on children and young people, parents, teachers and businesses. Indeed, moves to shorten the school summer holidays will have an enormous impact on tourism businesses who are understandably worried that they will not be able to recoup the money lost from a shorter summer break.

The Welsh Government has launched a consultation on these reforms and it’s important that as many people as possible feed into that consultation and make their views known. You can read through the Welsh Government’s plans and have your say at https://www.gov.wales/ structure-school-year Paul Davies MS

servIces

CARAVANS

CAR PARTS

CARPENTRY

CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHY

CLEARANCES

ELECTRICAL

FENCING, DRIVEWAYS AND LANDSCAPING

FABRICATION

GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING

HAIRDRESSING

HANDYMAN

RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIAL

RUBBISH AND WASTE REMOVAL

PROFESSIONAL CAR WASH

PODIATRY

SCRAP METAL

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

STORAGE TANKS

SOUND LIGHT AND STAGE

TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTERS

TRAILERS

VAN CONVERSIONS WINDOWS

TUnstoppable Goodwick march

THE LEAGUE leaders faced a tricky test as they took on Matthew Fox’ Clarbeston Road outfit who have impressed so far this season. Rhys Jones is the man in form for the league leaders and he scored a free kick from all of 40 yards on the eight minute mark to give the visitors the lead. With twelve goals already this season Jones

is proving a key player in all competitions.

Goodwick then had a goal disallowed for foul on the Clarbeston Road keeper. Shortly after however the visitors doubled their advantage when Travis Jones’ short back pass intercepted was by Rhys Dalling, who played it to Will Howarth who finished calmly.

The hosts however

started the second half brightly which led to a massive penalty shout for a potential foul on Matthew Davies and the home side seemed convinced it was a penalty, however the referee on this occasion disagreed. A big call, a goal for the hosts there would have changed the dynamic of the second half for sure.

It’s a game of fine margins and a Goodwick

Rugby: Blues unbeaten run ends

IN THE THIRD division Haverfordwest’ unbeaten run has come to an end as the Blues lost 19-7 on the road to Aberaeron.

Marty Phillips scored the visitors only try in what was always going to be a tough test for the Blues. The result sees Aberaeron and Cardigan above Haverfordwest in the third division, however the Pembrokeshire based team have a game in hand still to play.

Elsewhere St Davids made matters worse for Pembroke as they beat the former division three champions 17-12 on their own patch. It’s two wins from two for the Saints who will be delighted with that, however contrasting fortunes for Pembroke as they struggle to deal with relegation in the way they would have wanted to. While ever Neyland improving Neyland comfortably beat Llanybydder 44-10

with Ben Williams and Dan Hart both bagging two tries each. Down the road Llangwm failed to register a point as Laugharne scored 64 at Pill Parks. A young Llangwm team who are still developing found players such as Liam Price, Carl Smith and Nico Setaro too much to handle. Laugharne have plenty of players who have played at a higher level than this and are our ones to watch as the season develops.

Fishguard were the only Pembrokeshire

team to play in the second division with Milford vs Tenby falling foul of the weather. They beat Loughor 1614, largely thanks to the boot of the experienced James Griffiths. Rhys Lewis got the hosts only try and it was enough to secure the win, a good result as Loughor were unbeaten until their visit to Pembrokeshire. Fishguard now sit 5th in the league and they will be looking up the league rather than down after this result.

break down right led to a Clarby mix up as they tried to shepherd the ball out, ball played back into their own 6 yard box and Dan James challenged Rheinallt George for Clarby and as a result it was 3-0 to the visitors.

Some good play for Ben ‘Rocky’ John and Josh Wood ended in a great strike by John but Kyle Marsh in the Goodwick net was equal to it, a strong one handed save stopped what seemed to be a certain goal.

Goodwick wrapped things up Rhys Dalling hit the bar after some good play and Will Howarth was there to follow up with a well executed finish past Rhys

Mansell in the Clarbeston Road goal.

The result puts Goodwick on 26 points at the top of the league as they remain unbeaten. Goodwick coaching team must be quietly confident of success in many competitions this year, as they seem impossible to stop at the minute. For Clarbeston Road they sit 4th in the table and will be happy with how they’ve started the season. Travis Jones has proved a good addition for Fox’ team. Although they are probably not in contention for the league title they’ll have their eyes firmly on the cups in which they are a very dangerous outfit.

Hakin United beat Carew

HAKIN UNITED secured a hard-earned triumph against a spirited Carew side at the Obs.

All the goals unfolded in the initial 45 minutes, with the deteriorating pitch posing challenges for both teams in the second half.

In their pursuit of the title, the Vikings currently occupy the second spot in the table, while the Rooks find themselves uncomfortably situated just above the relegation zone.

The Vikings initiated the scoring in the 24th minute when Louis Thompson delivered a precise ball to Shane Walsh. The striker executed a low shot into the bottom corner of Tom Davies’ net.

Nevertheless, the Rooks swiftly equalized two minutes later. Former Viking Jonty Bennett lofted an enticing free kick into the box, where Archie Smith volleyed it into the back of the net.

Undeterred, the Vikings reclaimed the lead with a second goal. Goal-scorer Walsh orchestrated a clever pass to Alfie Stotter, who expertly chipped the ball over Davies as the keeper ventured off his line.

Although there were no further goals, the Vikings crafted some promising opportunities. Manager Justin ‘Skinny’ Harding will undoubtedly be pleased with the collection of three crucial points.

mAnderwood PembroKesHIre le Ague

DIVISION

Carew

Fishguard

Merlins

Pennar

DIVISION

Broad

Camrose

DIVISION

Clarbeston

Pennar

DIVISION 4

Angle v Carew III

Milford Athletic v St Ishmaels II

Milford United v N Hedges & Saundersfoot

Monkton Swifts III v Newport Tigers

Prendergast Villa v Fishguard Sports II

Tenby II v Camrose II

DIVISION 5

Cosheston II v Narberth II

Haverfordwest CC II v Johnston II

Lawrenny II v Herbrandston II

Letterston II v Broad Haven II

Manorbier Unites v Hundleton

Pembroke Boro II v St Clears II

Cymru head to the Euro 2024 play-offs

CYMRU’S dreams of a direct ticket to Euro 2024 were dashed on Tuesday night, as they faced a nail-biting draw against Group D leaders Turkey.

The 1-1 stalemate at Cardiff City Stadium meant that Cymru would now have to navigate the play-offs in March to secure their spot in the prestigious tournament.

The evening began with promise for Robert Page’s side when Neco Williams netted a seventh-minute lead. However, hopes were deflated as referee Matej Jug controversially awarded Turkey a penalty, converted by Yusuf Yazici, after a perceived foul by Cymru’s captain Ben Davies. The decision left a bitter taste, amplified by the referee’s rejection of three Welsh penalty appeals in the first half.

The setback against Turkey was exacerbated

by Cymru’s missed opportunities earlier in the campaign, notably the June defeat to Armenia and a drawn match in Yerevan last Saturday. Despite the disappointment, Cymru can find solace in the knowledge that they have a second chance at qualification through the play-offs.

CYMRU’S CAERDYDD NIGHTS: A HISTORY OF TRIUMPH

Cardiff City Stadium has witnessed many historic victories for Cymru football, with passionate crowds propelling the team to success in crucial encounters. Unlike previous triumphs where a win sufficed, this time Cymru faced the challenge of overcoming a formidable Turkey while depending on Croatia to drop points against Armenia. It was,

in essence, a long shot –a near miracle.

Despite the odds, Cymru made a strong start with Harry Wilson setting up Neco Williams for an early goal. The celebrations echoed belief among players, staff, and fans. Despite three rejected penalty appeals, Cymru dominated, silencing the Turkish supporters.

The dream took a hit as Armenia fell behind to Croatia just before half-time. Turkey’s soft penalty further dampened Welsh spirits. Although Cymru rallied late, their efforts were in vain, with Croatia securing a 1-0 victory.

MARCHING ON TO PLAY-OFFS: L AST CHANCE FOR CYMRU

While the disappointment lingers, Cymru now shifts focus to the Euro 2024 play-

‘I’m the right man for job’

CYMRU manager Rob Page has asserted that he is the right person for the job as the team prepares for the Euro 2024 play-offs, brushing aside uncertainties surrounding his position.

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) chief executive, Noel Mooney, had previously mentioned a “serious review” after the final qualifiers, leaving Page’s future in question.

Page, undeterred by the scrutiny, is already in planning mode for the crucial play-offs in March. Page attended the draw in Switzerland on Thursday where Cymru leant they will face Finaland, he expressed unequivocal confidence in leading Cymru towards the Euros, responding with a resounding “Absolutely” after the recent 1-1 draw with Turkey.

Looking ahead, Page highlighted the importance of strategic planning, scheduling a staff meeting next week and a subsequent review of the recent camp. The manager emphasised the commencement of player scouting, demonstrating a proactive approach to the upcoming challenges.

offs. Drawn against Finland in the semi-final on 21 March, Rob Page’s side will have the home advantage in a onelegged tie. A win would set up another home clash against either Poland or Estonia five days later for a spot in the tournament in Germany. Despite missing out on automatic qualification, Cymru’s involvement in the top tier of the Nations League guarantees them a play-off place.

The team, buoyed by recent play-off success, including qualification for the 2022 World Cup, will look to repeat history against Finland. The last encounter in September 2021 ended in a goalless draw, offering a chance for redemption.

As the Cymru team faces the last chance saloon, the anticipation builds for another dramatic chapter in their Euro 2024 qualification journey.

Having signed a four-year contract in September 2022, Page is committed until the 2026 World Cup. Reflecting on Cymru’s Euro 2024 qualifying journey, where they secured third place in a demanding group, he acknowledged the team’s need to navigate the play-offs once again, having successfully done so for the 2022 World Cup.

Cymru, currently on a six-game unbeaten streak, will face either Finland, Iceland, or Ukraine on March 21, 2024, at the Cardiff City Stadium. The victors will advance to meet Poland or Estonia, with a draw determining the venue for the final showdown.

Throughout the campaign, Page has underscored Cymru’s transitional phase postGareth Bale and other key player retirements. Despite this, FAW hierarchy is unlikely to make a managerial change mere months before such a critical juncture. Failure to qualify for Euro 2024, however, could have significant financial implications for Welsh football.

Noel Mooney, reiterating the need for forward momentum, stated, “We’ve reached the top table in world football; we can’t go backwards.” While expressing the FAW’s commitment to stability, he emphasised the importance of consistent victories, suggesting a careful balance between stability and performance.

Page, who took over from Ryan Giggs three years ago, successfully led Cymru to the round of 16 in the delayed 2020 European Championship. Achieving promotion to the top tier of the Nations League and securing a permanent role after Cymru’s first World Cup qualification in 64 years.