The Pembrokeshire Hearald 30/05/2025

VAN DRIVER ON TRIAL OVER FATAL crash at Nash FiNgerpost • p3

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Van driver on trial over fatal crash at Nash Fingerpost

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has gone on trial accused of causing the death of a motorcyclist in a crash at the A477 Nash Fingerpost junction

Jason Harvey, aged 43, from Law Street, Pembroke Dock, denies causing the death of Ashley Rogers through careless driving on the morning of May 13 2023.

The court heard that Harvey was towing a trailer with his van when he approached the junction from the A4075 at around 8:00am. As he crossed onto the A477, his vehicle was struck by a Ducati motorcycle ridden by Mr Rogers, who had been travelling towards Pembroke Dock.

Mr Rogers died at the scene.

Opening the prosecution’s case, Dyfed Thomas alleged that Harvey failed to come to a complete stop and did not allow enough time to properly assess the road before pulling out into the carriageway.

The prosecution relied on a forensic collision investigator’s report which found the van was obstructing the carriageway when the motorcycle approached, leaving the rider with no space to avoid the collision.

The defence argues that Mr Rogers was travelling at a high speed, which may have affected Harvey’s ability to see him.

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Harvey, who is represented by

Charles Langley KC, denies the charge. He told officers during interview that he had checked both directions before moving into the junction, and that “something just caught his eye”

moments before a “sudden massive impact”.

The trial continues before Judge Catherine Richards and is expected to last at least three days.

Man jailed after heroin package expelled in custody

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has been jailed for 16 months after hiding more than 12 grams of heroin inside his body during a drug run to Swansea.

Mark Briskham, 52, lately of Wavel Crescent, was stopped by police in Llanteg on June 8 last year, after officers received intelligence he had travelled to Swansea to collect Class A drugs.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Briskham and another man had set off around 9:30am to pick up heroin. When they were stopped on their return journey, no drugs were found in the vehicle or on their persons.

Both men were taken to Withybush Hospital for scans. The passenger’s scan came back clear, but Briskham refused to be examined. He was taken to the police station and placed under supervision.

Later, while using the toilet, he passed a package containing 12.7 grams of diamorphine.

The drugs were later valued at £1,590 based on their estimated street sale value.

Briskham initially denied intending to supply the drugs, claiming they were for personal use. He pleaded guilty on the morning of trial on the basis that he had been asked to collect the heroin and would be given seven grams in return.

Judge Geraint Walters said Briskham had agreed to “retrieve and deliver” the drugs on behalf of others, describing the offence as serious.

The court was told Briskham had a long history of criminal convictions, with 112 previous offences to his name, including past drug-related crimes. However, defence counsel Jon Tarrant

said there had been a “significant gap” in his offending over the last 17 years.

Mr Tarrant said Briskham had sought help for his addiction following his arrest and was now drug-free. “He regards this spell in custody as a turning point,” he told the court. “He knows there are more important things he should be addressing in life.”

Judge Walters criticised the defendant for initially refusing to cooperate with police and only entering a full plea at the last minute.

“Heroin remains one of the most destructive and addictive substances in our society,” the judge said. “Anyone involved in its movement or supply can expect a custodial sentence.”

Briskham was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

Pembroke Dock driver crashes into queue of traffic on Cleddau Bridge

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has admitted crashing into the back of a stationary queue of traffic on the Cleddau Bridge.

Brandon Sture, 26, of Cuckoo Wood, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court charged with driving without due care and attention.

The incident took place on November 13, when Sture was driving a BMW 3 Series across the A477 Cleddau Bridge. As traffic ahead came to a halt, he failed to stop in time and ploughed into the

back of another BMW.

The court heard that Sture sustained a minor injury in the collision, while a passenger in the other vehicle suffered a head injury. Both cars were said to have been extensively damaged.

Sture pleaded guilty to careless driving during his appearance at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on May 15.

He received six penalty points on his driving licence and was fined £512. He must also pay £110 in court costs and a £205 victim services surcharge.

Ashley Rogers (Pic: Dyfed-Powys Police)

Hywel Dda’s public consultation offers no real choice, critics say Health Board accused of repeating old mistakes and public trust erodes

ON THURSDAY (May 29), Hywel Dda decided to press ahead with yet another consultation over the future provision of clinical services across West Wales.

Among the risk factors identified by the Board’s background papers is “reputational damage to the Welsh Government”. Quite why the Board would bother itself with the Welsh Government’s reputation is unclear. If one accepts Labour ministers’ words, only the “good things” that happen in the Welsh NHS are down to them; the “bad things” are down to Health Boards.

Background papers also show that Pembrokeshire was never in the running to host a new hospital. The papers suggest that if patients from the Health Board’s south-east area (around Carmarthen, Ammanford, Llanelli) chose to access services in Swansea, it would undermine the Board’s operational viability. In that regard, clinical staff exerted pressure to ensure any new hospital was built “no further West than Carmarthen”.

BOARD PROMISES TO LISTEN... AGAIN

As usual, the options upon which the public will be invited to offer their views represent little more than Hobson’s Choice, i.e. no choice at all.

Assurances given that the Board had not made its mind up about any changes ahead of the public consultation are tempered by two factors: firstly, clinical leads have determined the consultation’s content; secondly, the Board is taking part in simultaneous discussions with

other providers, for example, Swansea Bay UHB and the Ambulance Service about how it tackles service issues.

Previous “robust conversations” with the public about service provision have made little or no difference to the Board’s preferred direction of travel. Moreover, the Board has framed its consultations with case studies and “stories” intended to push a narrative.

The Board accepted that far from being a co-production with the public whose views it would canvass, public input into the pre-consultation process was limited.

The number of responses will be important to ensure its credibility. In addition, how the Board weighs responses undoubtedly affects the public’s confidence in its approach to consultations. When the Board got answers it didn’t want in the past, it changed how it weighed responses to exclude or sideline views it would not accept.

For example, at its meeting on Thursday, the Board acknowledged that the urgent care model must be completely different to bring standards back to an acceptable level. However, the discussion on that issue repeated the old tropes of “care closer to home” or “in the community,” “new technology,” and “digital provision.”

Loading the consultation with leading questions such as “Would you rather be treated near your home?” is a sure way to undermine public confidence in the

Board’s purportedly impartial approach.

A BOARD IN CRISIS

The papers underlying the consultation reveal a Board in crisis. With the Health Board chronically short-staffed in key clinical specialisms, money thrown at meeting Welsh Government targets has meant stripping resources away from other areas of concern. Additional money received in-year from the Welsh Government is doing little more than fire-fighting longterm problems for headlines.

While there are opportunities presented by modernising service provision over a far longer period, changes will be radical.

The consultation addresses one obvious and serious problem.

The Health Board now predicts that a new major hospital will not be built until the mid-to-late 2030s. That means that previous plans for service modernisation and delivery are out of the window.

The changed position means that the modernisation of service provision will take place over a longer period and cost more to achieve. As things stood, the impact of multiple economic shocks and shortages had already sent projected budgets spiralling skyward. Ironically, the delivery of a more expensive plan over a longer period could make modernising the health estate and services more palatable to the Welsh Government as the money necessary would be spread out over a decade.

Well-known long-term problems head considerations affecting the

Public trust: Health Board’s popularity is more likely to be measured in the negative Jon Coles jon.coles@herald.email

consultation. Both Withybush Hospital and Glangwili are old buildings at or beyond the end of their reasonable operational life. Both are beset by technical and maintenance issues arising from that fact.

OLD BUILDINGS PRODUCE NEW CHALLENGES

The risk that poses to future provision is clear and illustrated by the disruption caused to Withybush Hospital by failing concrete structures. The Board spent £50m addressing those problems without adding capacity, services, or additional value to the Hospital. The fix applied spent money that could have been spent elsewhere. Similarly, expensive fire safety improvements to Glangwili Hospital did not improve clinical capacity there one jot.

As those buildings age, their conditions are very unlikely to improve. As technology improves and creates greater demand for capital resources, the risk is that the best and most up-todate services will be undeliverable in them.

Accordingly, the state of the current Health Board estate and the underlying fragility of service provision means that the longer the Board sweats out its ageing clinical assets, the greater the risk of sudden service changes or disruptions. That means compromises in service provision and, consequently, service delivery in unsuitable or sub-par locations.

It will almost certainly increase the risk that supposedly “temporary” service

changes will become permanent.

While Pembrokeshire’s residents are only too familiar with the elastic meaning the Board applies to the word “temporary”, Llanelli residents are becoming increasingly familiar with the Board’s temp-to-perm salami-slicing approach.

QUESTIONS OF TRUST

The Board’s meeting focused on building trust with the public regarding

its processes. Trust is likely to be hardwon in Pembrokeshire and Llanelli, where the Health Board’s popularity is more likely to be measured in the negative.

Acknowledging that “dialogue” and “conversations” could be difficult, the Board nevertheless persisted with ploughing the sands of previous assurances that they would be listening. Talking at the public is not the same as engaging in a conversation with it. The Board can frame its consultation about

modernising and transforming services, which are fine abstract concepts. However, to reach the population, the Board must explain what services will be cut and moved and where that axe may fall if certain options are chosen. The blizzard of adjectives and absence of verbs in Chair Neil Wooding’s closing remarks to the proposal to proceed with the consultation (as if there were any other choice) does not bode well for the idea that sort of certainty will or can be delivered.

Dispute over missing veterans’ funds

A ROW has broken out over thousands of pounds raised for an unregistered veterans’ support group, with serious allegations of financial misconduct, unauthorised fundraising, and internal fallout between those involved.

The controversy centres around CAMP BATH, an informal veterans’ community operating without registered charity or company status. The group has recently come under scrutiny following a viral Facebook post by campaigner Eddy Cooper, who accused Darren Edmundson, also known as the “Pembrokeshire Patriot”, of taking £4,000 raised for the camp while controlling its donation accounts.

The post was shared over 2,000 times on social media and led to widespread public concern. However, it has since been described as “unauthorised and irresponsible” by Steve, a 73-yearold former Royal Marine who serves as second in command at the camp. Speaking anonymously to The Herald on April 17, Steve said: “The post put out by Eddy Cooper was done without authorisation from the camp. He did this of his own volition.”

Steve also denied claims that he had been “ripped off” by Edmundson, stating:

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“That accusation is false — because that is me.” He added that at the time, he remained in contact with Darren, who he said was “in Pembrokeshire on welfare business.”

However, Jo Drayson, who co-runs the camp with her husband Dion, alleges that more money may be missing, but did not provide specifics.

She claims Edmundson removed her as a signatory on the camp’s SumUp fundraising account and changed the login details, locking out other members.

In a series of private messages seen by The Herald, Darren defended his actions, insisting the funds are still there and that he could not access the account himself without a valid passport. He stated: “I was the only one with qualifications. All the funds were raised by my show — The Late Night Veterans Show.”

Company records confirm that Late Night Veterans Show Ltd was registered by Edmundson and used to open the business account that controlled donations. This arrangement was described by Darren himself as “a

loophole”, since CAMP BATH is not a registered charity, company or CIC, and therefore has no formal legal standing.

Jo, meanwhile, says that she contacted Avon and Somerset Police, who advised that the dispute might be a civil matter, as Darren was legally authorised to access the account at the time. Nevertheless, she has raised concerns about transparency and accountability, particularly as the funds were solicited from the public for what donors understood to be a veterans’ cause.

The situation has been further complicated by personal tensions between key figures. Jo has accused campaigner Eddy Cooper of physical assault, which he denies. Darren, for his part, claims he left the camp temporarily due to family court proceedings and returned to find himself publicly vilified.

“The truth is I ran that place well,” he wrote. “I left, and it all went tits up.”

The Herald understands that access to the disputed SumUp account remains unresolved. Jo and her daughter have reportedly been unable to regain control of it since Darren allegedly changed the details, and there has been no formal audit of where the funds have gone.

A spokesperson for SumUp did not

respond to a request for comment at the time of going to press. The case has highlighted the dangers of operating community support groups without legal registration, safeguards, or financial oversight. Without charity or company status, there is no regulatory body overseeing CAMP BATH’s finances, leaving donors, volunteers, and vulnerable veterans exposed.

Past protests: The have been strong opposition to perceived downgrading of services in Pembrokeshire

Darren Edmundson, also known as the “Pembrokeshire Patriot”

Critical care crisis: Why local patients at risk as Llanelli ICU quietly downgraded

Prince Philip Hospital whistleblower warns of regional impact as Glangwili faces ICU overflow

A SPECIALIST nurse has spoken out as critical care services at Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli are quietly scaled back ahead of a public consultation — with direct implications for Pembrokeshire patients who rely on Glangwili Hospital for intensive care.

Hywel Dda University Health Board is preparing to launch a consultation on its Clinical Services Plan, which includes a proposal to formally downgrade the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Prince Philip Hospital and replace it with an Enhanced Care Unit (ECU).

However, the transition has already begun. The Herald understands that ICU staff are being reassigned, and patients requiring high-level intensive care are being routinely transferred to Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen — nearly 24 miles away — despite no final decision having been made.

One senior nurse at the hospital told The Herald: “Staff are being moved off the unit. There are people who need ICU beds but have to wait, as there are none now here. Everyone who needs one has to be transferred to Glangwili.”

She continued: “They could have bleeds, they are not stable. Not only that, but if they need to be transferred between hospitals, that is done by a specialist NHS service based in Cardiff – the Adult Critical Care Transfer Service (ACCTS), part of EMRTS Cymru. We call them ACCTS. When we sign the paperwork, we can see the Health Board is paying around £6,000 per patient for each transfer. The transport is carried out in a specialist ambulance, including an anaesthetist, doctor, and critical care team, to ensure patient stability during transfer. It’s not cheap.”

The nurse also claimed that there are enough skilled staff locally to continue providing intensive care, but the team is being broken up. “We are a specialised team, and we are being dispersed. The people of Llanelli are being put at risk. For what? To save money.”

She said patients from Llanelli were now overwhelming beds in Carmarthen, leaving Glangwili Hospital with little capacity for new cases. “Everyone now down at Glangwili are people with Llanelli area postcodes. They should be being treated here near their family, loved ones. And now down in Carmarthen they are chocker – no room to accept new patients, which is going to impact on patients further west into Pembrokeshire.”

This concern is echoed in Pembrokeshire, where Withybush General Hospital still technically retains seven ICU beds. However, ongoing staff shortages and the discovery of unsafe RAAC concrete have meant that many patients requiring critical care

final reconfiguration, and these will be developed with service, operational and executive leadership.”

“The temporary change was needed to improve our ability to safely deliver our critical care services in Carmarthenshire with the staffing available.

“We launched our Clinical Services Plan consultation at our Board Meeting today and Critical Care is one of the services which we will be looking at.

“In the consultation, options A and B propose having fewer intensive care units, and Option C proposes maintaining the current temporary arrangement at Prince Philip Hospital, where the sickest patients are transferred to Glangwili intensive care unit.

“In all options, bringing specialist critical care consultants together onto fewer sites would make the service more sustainable, improve safety, and help meet quality standards for our patients.”

However, critics argue that the Health Board’s response amounts to a technocratic justification that fails to meaningfully address community impact, consultation integrity, or patient safety.

from Pembrokeshire are already being transferred to Glangwili. Now, with Llanelli patients added to the demand, access to critical care is under further pressure across the region.

Hywel Dda University Health Board is expected to launch a 12-week public consultation on its Clinical Services Plan this week, with options that could lead to permanent reconfiguration of hospital services across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion. However, documents seen by The Herald confirm that changes such as the ICU downgrade may proceed before consultation results are finalised.

Appendix 7.55 of the Clinical Services Plan states: “We recognise that the need to respond to service fragility may mean some service change and investment decisions are required ahead of any

Another section of the Plan notes: “Due to the nature of service provision across Mid and West Wales, it is recognised that a wide range of services have some fragilities. This was a key driver behind the development of the Health Board’s strategy which seeks to reduce, if not eliminate, the risks to sustainable service provision.”

Commenting directly, Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Medical Director, Mark Henwood, said: “There has been a temporary change in place for critical care services at Prince Philip Hospital since July 2022. This was approved by the Board because of an inability to safely staff two critical care units with Consultant staff in Carmarthenshire providing care to the most unwell patients. This has meant that the sickest patients have been stabilised and transferred mostly to the Critical Care Unit at Glangwili Hospital.

LEE WATERS MS: “YOU CAN’T RUN A CONSULTATION WHILE SERvICES ARE BEING STRIPPED AWAY”

Commenting, Llanelli’s Member of the Senedd, Lee Waters, told The Herald: “It looks very much like decisions about critical care at Prince Philip Hospital are being made before the public’s had a real say— just like we saw with the overnight closure of the Minor Injuries Unit. That’s not how you build trust. The people of Llanelli deserve proper, local access to intensive care, and I’m not convinced the Health Board has a credible plan to deliver that. I’ve always tried to be reasonable about change, but in this case the case simply hasn’t been made. You can’t run a meaningful consultation while services are being quietly stripped away.”

DAME NIA GRIFFITH MP: “THIS EROSION OF SERvICES BY THE BACKDOOR HAS GOT TO STOP”

Commenting, Llanelli’s MP, Dame Nia Griffith, said: “I am extremely concerned to hear reports of intensive care services at Prince Philip Hospital being scaled back, because people in Llanelli should be able to access this care here, and not see loved ones taken all the way to Glangwili for services that have hitherto been provided in Llanelli.

“Moreover, the fact that this is happening without there having been any consultation, or even any mention of this, completely undermines trust in the Health Board. I will be seeking an urgent meeting with Hywel Dda health board bosses to seek clarification, and make it absolutely clear to them that they must recognise the need for these services in Llanelli and design their

Costly specialist ambulances from Cardiff are used to transport ICU patients between Llanelli and Carmarthen hospitals (Image: NHS)

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staffing model accordingly, with full teams of appropriately qualified staff based here.

“Everyone knows that they are already struggling for space in Glangwili so it makes no sense to be sending more Llanelli patients up there, and on top of that, there is the cost of transporting patients, the discomfort for the patients and the anxiety and inconvenience for the family. This erosion of services by the backdoor has got to stop.”

WELSH CONSERvATIvES: “DECLARE A HEALTH EMERGENCY”

Commenting, a Welsh Conservative spokesperson said: “The downgrading of ICU services at Prince Philip Hospital before public consultation is unacceptable and undermines trust in the health system.

“The Welsh NHS is in crisis under Labour, with over 10,000 patients waiting more than 12 hours in A&E and two-year waits still unacceptably high, the Welsh Labour Government continues to fail our communities.

“The Welsh Conservatives would declare a health emergency, directing the resources and the entire apparatus of government at the health service, ensuring timely access to care and restoring faith in our Welsh NHS.”

Sam Kurtz, Senedd Member for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire added: “If any decisions are taken before the consultation has concluded, then both the Health Board and the Welsh Labour Government must be prepared to justify them to a deeply concerned public.

“Recruitment has long been a challenge, one that has only worsened under the shadow cast by ongoing uncertainty over the future of healthcare in West Wales.

“That uncertainty stems from the Welsh

Labour Government’s continued drive to centralise services, often to the detriment of rural communities.”

Kurtz added: “Access to critical healthcare should never be a postcode lottery.”

CAMPAIGNERS: ‘NOT ACCEPTABLE – AND A SHOCK’

Chair of the SOSPPAN campaign group, Councillor Deryk Cundy, told The Herald that they had raised concerns with Hywel Dda over “rumours from a separate source” suggesting changes to intensive care were already under way — before any formal decision by the Health Board.

“We have not been directly contacted about these changes,” he said.

“SOSPPAN has been working closely with Hywel Dda trying to find a way

forward — recommending a merger of the Minor Injuries Unit and Same Day Emergency Care, operating 16 hours per day, with increased mental health cover available in Llanelli 24/7.”

He said that when combined with the existing 24-hour Acute Medical Assessment Unit, this could improve service delivery in Llanelli and reduce pressure on Glangwili Hospital. However, he described the ICU downgrade as “a shock” and “not acceptable”.

“For too long, Hywel Dda management have said departments are unsafe and instead of making them safe, they shut them down — only to reopen them 20 miles away. We will be asking for an early meeting with the Health Board, and if these proposals are confirmed, we will express our determination to prevent any further reductions in service at Prince Philip Hospital.”

Tenby man to face trial over stalking allegation

A TENBY man accused of stalking has been remanded in custody following a breach of bail conditions.

Cory Jenkins, aged 28, of Serpentine Gardens, had initially been granted conditional bail after being charged with stalking involving serious alarm or distress. The alleged offence took place between April 26 and May 7 this year, and involved repeated contact with the complainant, Bethany Jenkins.

Jenkins from entering Clynderwen and Llandissilio, or contacting the complainant directly or indirectly.

Magistrates originally imposed an electronically monitored curfew and exclusion zones preventing

Woman banned for drug-driving

A HAvERFORDWEST motorist has been banned from the roads for three years after being convicted of two separate drug-driving offences.

Sarah Lewis Moane, 35, had denied the charges when she first appeared before magistrates, but was convicted following a trial on April 24. Sentencing took place this week at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

The court heard that Moane was stopped by police while driving her Audi A4 through Houghton on March 22, 2024. A roadside drugs wipe tested positive, and further analysis at the

police station confirmed the presence of two controlled substances in her system.

Tests revealed she had 2.4 micrograms of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (cannabis) and 86 micrograms of benzoylecgonine (a cocaine breakdown product) per litre of blood. The legal limits are 2 and 50 respectively.

Magistrates disqualified Moane, of Three Meadows, Haverfordwest, from driving for three years. She was also ordered to pay £650 in court costs, a £180 fine, and a £72 victim surcharge.

However, following a bail variation hearing at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on May 22, Jenkins was later arrested for breaching those conditions.

He appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court the following day (May 23), where magistrates remanded him to Swansea Prison pending further proceedings.

The case is expected to return to Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for trial on July 7 at 2:00pm.

Pembroke Dock man denies string of offences against boys under 16

A 61-YEAR-OLD Pembrokeshire man has appeared before magistrates to deny a string of historic sexual allegations against boys under the age of sixteen.

On Tuesday (Mar 27) Anthony Kenniford, of Britannia Drive, Pembroke Dock, denied ten counts spanning from the year 2000 to 2008. The charges include indecent assault on boys under 14, inciting acts of gross indecency, rape, and attempted rape. Several of the charges relate to repeated alleged

incidents involving different boys.

The alleged offences took place in Pembroke Dock at addresses which are linked to the defendant.

Due to the seriousness of the charges Haverfordwest magistrates this week declined jurisdiction and the matter will now be sent to Swansea Crown Court where trial proceedings will commence on June 27

Kenniford was released on conditional bail, the condition being that he doesn’t contact any of the victims.

The ICU at Glangwili is under significant pressure (Image: File)

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Medical Director: Mark Henwood (Image: Hywel Dda)

Lee Waters MS: The people of Llanelli deserve proper, local access to intensive care

Shocked: Hospital campaigner Cllr Deryk Cundy was not consulted, he said (Image: BBC)

Farmer banned after drinkdrive row with partner

A PEMBROKESHIRE farmer has been banned from driving for 14 months after making the “foolish decision” to get behind the wheel following an argument with his partner.

Jamie Povey, 26, of Maenclochog, had been drinking at a local pub on May 10 before returning home with his partner. But when a row broke out between them, he made the impulsive choice to return to the pub by car.

“Police received a call from his partner informing them of his intention to drive,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

Officers stopped Povey on the road between Maenclochog and Llys y Fran. A roadside breath test proved positive, and a subsequent reading at the police station showed 50 microgrammes of

alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Povey, who was driving a Kia GT, pleaded guilty to drink-driving.

Defence solicitor Katy Hanson told the court that Povey had originally received a lift home from the pub but had gone back for his vehicle after the argument.

“He doesn’t know why he did it, but he accepts responsibility,” she said.

“He is a full-time farm worker and relies heavily on his driving licence to carry out duties on the farm. His employer is aware of the offence and hopefully he will retain his job, but it’s going to be difficult.”

Magistrates disqualified Povey from driving for 14 months. He was fined £460 and must also pay a £184 victim surcharge and £85 in prosecution costs.

Worker over drink-drive limit after car hit by fallen branch

A FARM worker who crashed his car during Storm Darragh after being struck by a falling tree branch was found to be more than twice the legal drink-drive limit following a vodka binge.

Marcin Przybycien, 39, was driving his Kia Sportage on the A40 near the Corner Piece Inn, Rudbaxton, just before 9:30am on December 7 when the branch came down, leading to a crash.

“The Kia Sportage was at the mouth of the Spittal junction,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“There was substantial front-end damage to the vehicle and it was covered in what appeared to be fresh mud. It seemed that the vehicle had collided with a wall.”

Police carried out a roadside breath test which proved positive. Due to Przybycien’s injuries, he was taken to Withybush Hospital for examination.

“His nose was bleeding and he complained of chest and stomach pains,” added Ms Vaughan.

Because of his medical condition, officers were unable to conduct a formal drink-drive test until 2:30pm – around five hours after his arrest. A urine sample taken at that time showed 227

milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of urine. The legal limit is 107.

Przybycien, of The Caravan, Trebrython Farm, Fishguard, pleaded guilty to drink-driving with the assistance of a Polish interpreter.

His solicitor, Katy Hanson, told the court that the defendant had been drinking Polish vodka with his brother the night before and had woken in pain due to a hernia.

“He felt unwell and thought he needed to get to hospital, which is why he decided to drive,” she said. “As he passed the Spittal junction, a branch fell onto the vehicle and caused the crash.”

Magistrates disqualified Przybycien from driving for 20 months. He was fined £300 and ordered to pay a £120 court surcharge and £85 in costs.

Man arrested after latenight disturbance at Asda

DYFED-POWYS Police arrested a 41-year-old man following a disturbance at Asda in Pembroke Dock at around 11:00pm on Monday night (May 27).

The man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a knife and for a public order offence. He remains in police custody.

A witness told The Herald: “I saw

the police looking through the bins on Gordon Street just after 11:00pm. I think they were looking for a weapon.”

While police have not confirmed whether a weapon was recovered, the nature of the arrest suggests that a knife was either found or believed to have been in the man’s possession.

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Man accused of Pembroke Dock rape appears in court

A 22-YEAR-OLD man from Hakin has appeared before magistrates charged with raping a woman in Pembroke Dock.

Rhys Austin, of Gelliswick Road, Hakin, is alleged to have raped the woman on January 21, 2023, at an address in Pembroke Dock.

Austin appeared before

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week. Due to the seriousness of the charge, the case has been sent to Swansea Crown Court.

No plea was entered during the hearing, and Austin was granted unconditional bail.

He is scheduled to appear at Swansea Crown Court on June 27.

Milford Man remanded after breach of restraining order

A MILFORD HAvEN man has been remanded in custody after breaching a court order to see his seriously ill partner one final time before she undergoes open heart surgery.

Andrew Armstrong, 39, of Chestnut Way, admitted breaching a restraining order imposed by Swansea Crown Court in March 2021, which banned him from contacting his long-term partner.

The order followed a conviction for domestic violence, including punching, kicking and throttling the woman, and threatening to kill her.

Despite this, Armstrong visited her home on May 26 after she reportedly asked to see him before her lifethreatening surgery in Cambridge next week.

“This might be the last time he’ll ever see her,” said his solicitor, Tom Lloyd. “She has multiple serious heart issues and is extremely unwell.”

Man remanded after driving while banned at Withybush

A MILFORD HAvEN man has been remanded in custody after admitting to driving while disqualified and uninsured at Withybush General Hospital.

Lee Lock, aged 37, of Coombs Road, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (May 22), where he pleaded guilty to both driving offences.

The court heard that on March 18 this year, Lock drove a VW Golf to the hospital’s grounds on Fishguard Road despite being disqualified and without

valid insurance.

Magistrates were told that Lock committed the offences while already on bail for unrelated matters. He also failed to surrender to court at an earlier stage of the proceedings.

Due to the seriousness of the offending, his previous record, and concerns he may reoffend if released, the bench remanded Lock in custody until his sentencing.

He is set to be sentenced at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, June 3 at 10:00am.

Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court that an anonymous call alerted police to Armstrong’s presence at the property. Officers found his medication and clothing inside the home, before discovering him hiding under a plank of wood in the garden.

In a statement read to the court, the woman said she had invited Armstrong over and did not support the prosecution.

“I’m in a relationship with him and we’re trying to sort things out with the Crown Court order,” she said. “I just wanted to see him one last time before I go to Cambridge for open heart surgery next week.”

Despite the emotional circumstances, magistrates declined jurisdiction due to the seriousness of the original offence. Armstrong was remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Swansea Crown Court on June 17.

Man jailed after being caught with kitchen knife in Pembroke

A MAN with a history of knife offences has been jailed again after being caught with a kitchen knife in Pembroke.

Robert Parker, aged 42 and now of no fixed address, was arrested after police discovered he was carrying a 20cm kitchen knife in a public place on Wednesday, May 8.

He appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court the following day (May 9), where he admitted the offence.

Magistrates heard that Parker had no lawful reason for possessing the blade, and that it was his third such offence — triggering an automatic custodial sentence. He was jailed for six months.

He was also ordered to pay £85 in costs, and the court ordered the knife to be forfeited and destroyed.

This is not the first time Parker has faced the courts over knife-related offences.

In July 2023, he was sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment for possession

of a knife and a small amount of cannabis at Withybush Hospital, as well as for assaulting his partner during a domestic incident in Haverfordwest.

That case followed an incident on Picton Place where Parker jabbed his partner in the stomach during a row, before shoving her outside a Subway on Castle Square. Police arrested him after being called by a concerned member of the public.

Days later, while seeking mental health support at Withybush Hospital, Parker voluntarily informed an officer he had a silver butterfly knife hidden in his sock. He also admitted to having a small amount of cannabis on him at the time.

The court was told Parker has a lengthy criminal record, with 67 previous convictions for 151 offences.

He was also handed a further 14day sentence last August for breaching bail conditions, which was ordered to run concurrently.

Cannabis user sentenced after £4,500 haul found in Pembroke flat

A TEN-YEAR cannabis user has been sentenced after police discovered more than £4,000 worth of herbal cannabis and resin at his home in the centre of Pembroke.

Officers carried out a search of Samuel Thomas’s flat on Main Street on June 5, 2024, after detecting a strong smell of cannabis coming from the property.

Inside, they recovered 62 grams of herbal cannabis and 888 grams of cannabis resin, with an estimated combined street value of £4,500.

This week, Thomas, 27, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates where he pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing Class B drugs.

His solicitor, Tom Lloyd, said his client had been a regular user of cannabis for the past decade.

“Personal circumstances unfortunately led to his possession of cannabis,” said Mr Lloyd. “He knows

he’s got a problem and he wants to address it.”

Magistrates were presented with character references ahead of sentencing.

Thomas was handed a 12-month community order requiring him to complete ten rehabilitation activity days and 150 hours of unpaid work. He must also pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 in prosecution costs. A forfeiture and destruction order was made in relation to the seized drugs.

Driver claimed ‘kidnap by Islamic male’ after crashing drink-drive vehicle

A POLISH motorist who crashed his car after driving over the legal alcohol limit told police he had been kidnapped and held to ransom by an Islamic male threatening to harm his friend.

However, the claim was not accepted by police, prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week, as 47-year-old Pawel Stasiak appeared in the dock.

Stasiak, of Little Road, Hayes, London, pleaded guilty to drink-driving, driving without a licence, and driving without insurance.

The incident began just before

9:00pm on May 9, when Stasiak was seen walking out of the Co-op store in Pembroke. A witness saw him bend down to speak to some children, and believed an inappropriate word had been said. Stasiak then shook the children’s hands and got into his car.

“He was then seen driving the wrong way against the flow of traffic,” said Ms Vaughan. “He was also seen making a praying gesture with his hands before driving off at speed.”

Minutes later, his Toyota RAV4 was found crashed at the entrance to Newton Farm campsite, near Freshwater West. The vehicle had mounted a grass verge,

smashed through a fence, and come to rest with Stasiak in the driver’s seat and a dog beside him.

He then got out and walked into a nearby field.

“He appeared either intoxicated or in shock, as he was staggering around,” Ms Vaughan said.

Police arrived at the scene but Stasiak initially refused a roadside breath test, claiming he had been kidnapped by an Islamic male and was being ransomed due to threats made against a friend.

He was arrested and taken into custody, where he later provided

breath samples with a reading of 60 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Supported by a Polish interpreter in court, Stasiak became emotional as he addressed the magistrates.

“I had a huge problem with alcohol, but I stopped drinking for ten years,” he said. “Then my brother passed away in December, and since then, everything has come back.”

Magistrates disqualified him from driving for 20 months. He was fined £161 and ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £64 victim surcharge.

Reform shatters Labour hold in key Carmarthenshire council seat

REFORM has pulled off a major political upset in Carmarthenshire, winning the Lliedi by election with over 42 percent of the vote and unseating Labour in one of its longheld strongholds.

Michelle Beer, a graduate of the Bible College of Wales and an active figure in local faith communities, was elected on Thursday (May 29) as the new councillor for Lliedi, becoming the first Reform UK member on Carmarthenshire County Council. Her victory represents not just a significant local result, but a potential shift in Welsh political sentiment.

The final result was:

• Reform UK (Michelle Beer): 42.6 percent (568 votes)

• Labour (Andrew Bragoli): 23.4 percent (312 votes)

• Independent (Sharon Burdess): 8.7 percent

• Plaid Cymru (Taylor Reynolds): 8.0 percent

• Conservative (Richard Williams): 7.0 percent

• Independent (Alison Leyshon): 6.5 percent

• Liberal Democrat (Jonathan Burree): 3.1 percent

• Gwlad (Wayne Erasmus): 0.7 percent

The Labour vote collapsed by nearly 35 percentage points compared with the 2022 election. The Conservatives also saw their share fall by almost 9 points. Reform UK had not stood in the previous contest and surged straight to the top of the poll. No Independent candidate from the previous election stood again.

Michelle Beer, who campaigned actively with the Llanelli branch of Reform UK, focused her message on localism, accountability, and traditional values. Her campaign,

described by supporters as energetic and community-driven, included regular doorstep conversations, local prayer gatherings, and public expressions of faith.

She is married to Gareth Beer, a Kidwelly Town councillor and former Reform UK general election candidate in Llanelli. Michelle served as his campaign manager and has been closely involved in the party’s regional growth.

During the campaign, she reflected on her time at the Bible College of Wales and her continued involvement in local worship meetings in Kidwelly. Her social media posts frequently referenced prayer, unity, and a desire to bring moral clarity to politics. The significance of the result is considerable. Lliedi is a historically Labour-voting ward in an area where the party has traditionally been dominant. Reform UK’s breakthrough will raise concern within Welsh Labour ranks, particularly as dissatisfaction with the Welsh Government grows over issues such as NHS performance, the economy, and transport policy.

The result also points to a broader trend. With Reform gaining support across working-class communities in

both England and Wales, the party is beginning to challenge the old political order in parts of the country once considered safe territory for Labour. This by-election result may not alter the overall balance of power in Carmarthenshire, but it has clearly altered the political conversation. For Reform UK, it is a toehold in rural west Wales. For Labour, it is a wake-up call. The question now is whether the shock result in Lliedi is a one-off—or the first sign of a larger realignment.

Michelle Beer has given a big thank you to everyone for making the effort to join the campaign (Pic: Supplied)

Winner: Reform’s Michelle Beer

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Army to conduct major training exercises at Castlemartin

CASTLEMARTIN Training Area

will host three major military exercises in 2025, involving hundreds of personnel and some of the British Army’s most advanced armoured vehicles.

The Royal Tank Regiment Battlegroup will be the first to arrive, conducting live-fire and manoeuvre training from 9 to 27 June. They will be followed by the Queen’s Royal Hussars from 13 October to 7 November, and then the Royal Welsh Battlegroup from 17 November to 5 December. Routine training will continue around these larger exercises.

The training is described as critical to the operational readiness of the units involved. The Royal

Tank Regiment, the oldest tank unit in the world, and the Queen’s Royal Hussars, the Army’s senior armoured regiment, both operate the Challenger 2 main battle tank. The Royal Welsh is an armoured infantry regiment with roots dating back to 1689.

Castlemartin is one of only a few locations in the UK capable of hosting live-firing exercises at battlegroup level. The area supports complex, high-intensity training with multiple armoured fighting vehicles, helping ensure the Army’s frontline units remain prepared for deployment both at home and abroad.

Each exercise will involve significant military movement, with tanks and heavy vehicles transported to and from the area during the buildup period, roughly a week before training starts. This may result in some disruption to local traffic.

Live firing will take place Monday to Friday between 8:00am and 6:00pm, with night firing scheduled from Monday to Thursday between 8:00pm and 3:00am. These are the permitted windows, although activity may be limited on certain days.

Officials have pledged to keep disruption to the local community to a minimum. Firing schedules will be publicised locally to help residents plan ahead.

The site is managed by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, with support from Landmarc Support Services, which oversees the provision of training facilities across the UK.

Senior Training Safety Officer for Castlemartin, Major John Poole, said: “Castlemartin Training Area provides essential training opportunities for large-scale exercises that support the preparation of military personnel from multiple units. We remain grateful to the local population for their continued support.”

Further information and firing notices can be found on the official government website at www.gov. uk by searching ‘Castlemartin firing notices’.

Man to be sentenced for stalking and breaching court orders

A MILFORD HAvEN man is facing sentence after admitting to stalking and repeatedly breaching a nonmolestation order protecting his former partner.

Phillip Solomon, aged 35, of Ash Court, Rosemarket, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (May 22) in relation to a

series of offences committed between March and May this year.

Solomon pleaded guilty to stalking the female between March 28 and May 2, during which time he contacted her on multiple occasions using withheld numbers and approached her in person.

He also admitted breaching a

non-molestation order by contacting her between April 23 and May 2, and sending a birthday card to his daughter on May 17—an act prohibited by a new non-molestation order issued just three days earlier.

The court heard that Solomon had already been remanded on conditional bail, with strict curfew requirements

and orders not to contact the woman concerned or enter Crundale. These conditions remain in place until further notice. He will return to court for sentencing on Tuesday, June 17 at 11:00am, where a pre-sentence report is expected to be presented.

Royal Anglian Foxhound vehicles conducting both static and mobile ranges with the General-Purpose Machine Gun (Pic: MOD)

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Pembrokeshire football fans caught in Liverpool parade horror

DOZENS of Liverpool FC supporters from Pembrokeshire were in the city on Monday (May 26) to celebrate the club’s trophy parade — but for many, the day turned from joy to terror when a car drove into crowds of fans on Water Street, leaving several people injured.

Among those caught up in the chaos was former Herald sales manager Gavin Young, from near Crundale, Haverfordwest, who had travelled to Liverpool with his partner Hannah.

Speaking to The Herald from the Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower Hotel, which overlooks the Liver Building and sits just metres from the crash site, Gavin said: “We were literally ten seconds away from being ploughed over. Hannah saw it all — she was crying her eyes out. It’s disgusting what’s happened.”

Emergency services including armed police and an air ambulance

Sinclair editor@herald.email

descended on the scene after a grey people carrier mounted the pavement and drove into celebrating fans at around 6:00pm. The crash happened just as Liverpool FC’s official parade was coming to an end.

“We were told by hotel staff to stay indoors,” Gavin continued. “There were helicopters overhead and police with guns on the street. Then my phone just started ringing non-stop — friends and family checking in to see if we were safe.”

The couple were in the city with Jo, a close friend of Hannah’s who works at the same school in Haverfordwest, and Jo’s husband Martin. All four are safe but shaken.

“We’re just thankful to be alive,” Gavin said. “We were right there. That street – Water Street – it’s where

we were walking. If we had been ten seconds ahead, it could have been us.”

Merseyside Police later confirmed that a 53-year-old white British man from Liverpool had been arrested at the scene. The vehicle came to a stop after the collision, and the driver was detained as members of the public attempted to confront him.

A spokesperson said: “We were contacted at just after 6:00pm following reports a car had been in collision with a number of pedestrians on Water Street. The car stopped at the scene and a male has been detained. Extensive enquiries are ongoing.”

Eyewitnesses reported screams and scenes of panic as people tried to flee. Others chased the car, smashing windows and attempting to drag the driver out before police secured the area.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the scenes as “appalling”

and urged the public not to share distressing footage online, asking people to support police efforts.

Liverpool FC issued a statement saying: “We are in direct contact with Merseyside Police regarding the incident on Water Street which happened towards the end of the trophy parade. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected.”

Tens of thousands had gathered across Liverpool to celebrate the team’s Premier League success — with many travelling from Wales. Scores of supporters from Pembrokeshire were in the city, including groups from Milford Haven, Haverfordwest, and Pembroke Dock.

Gavin concluded: “It’s meant to be a celebration – we came here to support the team and have a good time. But this will stay with us for a long time. We’re just glad we made it back to the hotel in time. Our thoughts are with those who didn’t.”

Front door hammer attack leaves Hakin family terrified

A FRONT door in Hakin was smashed with a hammer in the early hours of the morning, causing nearly £2,000 worth of damage and leaving a mother and daughter fearing for their safety.

The occupants of the councilowned property were woken shortly before 5:00am on July 24, 2024, by loud banging. Moments later, Kurt Lee, 28, was seen fleeing the scene on a motorbike.

Lee, of Dewsland Street, Milford Haven, caused what the Crown described as “quite a large amount of damage” to the front door, which was the property of Pembrokeshire County Council. The total cost of the damage was £1,887.95.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, the householder said: “This incident has left me scared, not only for my own safety, but for that of my mother and young daughter who both live at my

home.

“This is a family home, and if someone was behind the door at the time the hammer was used to smash the window, they would have received major injuries.”

Probation officer Julie Norman told the court that text messages had been exchanged between the defendant and the victim in the days before the incident.

“As a result of those messages, the

defendant had become annoyed with the victim and he broke the door,” she said. “He has no idea what came over him.”

Lee pleaded guilty to a charge of criminal damage.

He was ordered to pay £1,887.95 in compensation to Pembrokeshire County Council, along with a £120 fine and £85 in costs, bringing the total to £2,092.95.

Gavin and Hannah (Pic Facebook)

Tom

Parents rally to save ‘heart of the community’ from closure

HEARTBROKEN parents, former pupils and villagers have launched a determined campaign to save Ysgol Clydau in Tegryn from closure – warning that shutting the school would rip the heart out of the community.

The small rural primary school has been described as “happy, caring and welcoming” in its most recent Estyn inspection, but Pembrokeshire County Council is now proposing to close it down due to a reported decline in pupil numbers.

The move has sparked an outpouring of anger and sadness from the local community, who say the school is far more than a place of learning – it is a vital hub, a lifeline for families, and a cornerstone of Welsh identity and rural life.

At a full meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council earlier this month, members heard that Ysgol Clydau has seen a 34 per cent drop in enrolment between 2015 and 2025, with no clear sign of recovery. As a result, the School Modernisation Working Group has recommended that statutory consultation begins on plans to close the school.

But local councillor Iwan Ward

A petition set up by parent Sarah Farnden has already attracted widespread support, as residents rally to resist the closure.

“We believe this closure will have a devastating impact on our community and on the well-being of our children,” she said. “Ysgol Clydau is more than just a school. It’s a safe, nurturing space that brings people of all ages together. Losing it will isolate families, weaken our community, and threaten the future of the Welsh language in this area.”

Supporters also point to the school’s long history – there has been a school on the site since 1880 – and say its closure would sever a link to generations of local life.

The petition calls on the council to halt the closure process and to work with the community to find a way forward.

He warned that closure would be “a disaster for the future of education locally” and said the proposal was “neither fair nor moral.”

His words have struck a chord.

made an impassioned plea to stop the process, calling the school “the heart of our society – not just a school, but a family, a community, and an anchor for our children who deserve the chance to grow.”

“We urge the council to listen, to understand what this school means to us, and to work together on alternatives that protect the future of our children and our rural way of life,” Ms Farnden said.

The petition can be found at: change.org/p/petition-to-oppose-theproposed-closure-of-ysgol-clydau

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Port of Milford Haven to host open day and stakeholder meeting

THE PORT OF MILFORD HAv EN is opening its gates to the public next month for a rare opportunity to explore the inner workings of Pembrokeshire’s busiest port.

The open day, which takes place on Wednesday (June 18), will run from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at Catalina House, Pembroke Dock, and will offer visitors a chance to meet staff, take guided bus tours of Pembroke Port, and learn more about the operations, infrastructure, and future plans of the port.

Timed to coincide with the Port’s Annual Stakeholder Meeting, the event is being billed as a unique opportunity to engage with those who keep the port running and hear from its leadership team.

Bus tours will give attendees close-up views of port activity, while external partners – including businesses, emergency services, and marine specialists – will be on hand to provide additional insight into the wider supply chain and the surrounding marine environment.

The stakeholder meeting itself will follow from 6:00pm to 7:30pm, with updates from the Port’s chair and chief executive, and a Q&A session where pre-submitted questions will be addressed.

Anna Malloy, communications and marketing director at the Port of

Milford Haven, said: “This year we’re excited to be hosting these important

events at Pembroke Port. Our Open Day is a new addition to our calendar and we’re looking forward to showcasing the scale of investment and development in the area. We hope to see many local residents and

stakeholders join us.”

Those wishing to attend are asked to register in advance, with the deadline for sign-up set for Sunday, June 16.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Lifeboats rescue stricken vessel off Amroth in challenging seas

BOTH of Tenby’s RNLI lifeboats were launched just after 4:00pm on Monday (May 26) following a distress call to the Coastguard from a 7.5-metre rigid inflatable boat (RIB) in trouble off the coast of Amroth.

The occupants of the RIB reported mechanical issues with their engine and were becoming increasingly concerned as conditions worsened. With heavy swell and rising winds, the Tenby inshore lifeboat was first to arrive at the scene, navigating choppy waters at speed to reach the vessel, which was spotted anchored dangerously close to the rocks.

Once alongside, the volunteer crew confirmed that all occupants were accounted for and in stable condition, though cold and wet from

the elements. A decision was made to transfer two people to the warmer and more sheltered all-weather lifeboat, which arrived shortly after.

As conditions continued to deteriorate, a tow line was secured, and the disabled vessel was taken under tow back to the safety of Saundersfoot Harbour. Upon arrival, they were met by members of the Tenby Coastguard Rescue Team.

Both lifeboats were then stood down and returned to station.

An RNLI spokesperson said: “The occupants did the right thing in calling for help early, especially as the weather was turning. Thanks to the teamwork of our volunteers and Coastguard colleagues, a potentially serious incident was safely resolved.”

Simultaneous rescues for Tenby lifeboats after paddleboarders blown out to sea

BOTH of Tenby’s lifeboats were launched on Sunday (May 25) in response to two separate emergencies involving paddleboarders in difficulty.

Shortly after 2:00pm, the inshore lifeboat launched first, following reports that paddleboarders were struggling to return to shore in strong southwesterly winds near the lifeboat slip. The boarders had been blown nearly a mile offshore.

Fortunately, local fishing vessel Seren y Môr spotted the drifting paddleboarders and stood by until the lifeboat arrived. The crew brought the casualties and their boards aboard and safely returned them to shore.

Immediately afterwards, the inshore lifeboat was re-tasked to assist with a second incident, already being attended by Tenby’s all-weather

lifeboat. This involved another group of paddleboarders caught in similar conditions off Freshwater East, approximately six miles west of Tenby.

The paddleboarders had been blown onto rocks by the strong onshore breeze. The all-weather lifeboat launched its small Y-boat to attempt a rescue, but rough sea swells made it too dangerous to extract the casualties by sea.

A Coastguard rescue helicopter was requested and soon arrived on scene. A winchman was lowered onto the rocks to assess the casualties, who were found to be uninjured. They were then airlifted to safety and returned to Freshwater East beach.

All rescue units, including the retasked inshore lifeboat, were stood down shortly afterwards and returned to station.

Cilgerran man jailed after making graphic death threats to son

A CILGERRAN man who made a string of graphic and chilling threats to kill his own son has been jailed for 18 months.

Fraser Bourke-Connell, aged 53, appeared at Swansea Crown Court where he admitted two counts of making threats to kill, sending threatening communications, harassment without violence, and threatening to damage property.

The court heard that the offences took place between June and October last year.

Prosecutor Ashanti-Jade Walton told the court that on September 7, BourkeConnell was returning from the theatre in Cardigan with his partner when he suddenly became agitated. During the journey, he demanded she drive him to his son’s home, stating that his son “needs to die” and that he planned to “kill him tonight”.

He was arrested but later released on bail.

The court was told that on October 4, during a conversation with his mental health advocate, Bourke-Connell said he wanted to stab his son “with his own

femur”. A few days later, he made further threats during another call, stating he wanted to strangle and mutilate his son, and make his partner witness the act.

On October 7, he turned up at his son’s step-brother’s home demanding spare keys to his son’s car. When the request was refused, Bourke-Connell jabbed his finger into the man’s chest and threatened to “smash everything” in his storage unit before damaging his son’s car.

The defendant was also convicted of harassment over a barrage of unwanted messages sent to his son between June 30 and August 31, in which he said he wanted him to die and graphically described acts of violence.Defending, Emily Bennett said that Bourke-Connell had not offended since 2000 and that his early guilty pleas were evidence of him taking responsibility. She added that while in custody, he had begun receiving help for his mental health and had completed courses to assist with rehabilitation.

Judge Catherine Richards imposed a sentence of 18 months imprisonment and granted a restraining order, banning

him from contacting his son for the next three years.

The prosecution offered no evidence on several remaining charges, and not guilty verdicts were recorded.

Landslide-hit Pembrokeshire path set to reopen soon

A SECTION of a south Pembrokeshire seaside coastal path, closed once again after a number of landslips, is expected to reopen in little more than a month.

The coastal path, known as the Tramway, which links Wisemans Bridge to Coppet Hall on the edge of Saundersfoot, was previously closed after it experienced ‘substantial rock falls’ in late 2023 and early 2024, with substantial investment made by the council to reopen the route before the latest landslides.

In January a further fall happened towards the western end of the Wisemans Bridge to Coppet Hall cycleway, between the Coppet Hall and Wisemans Bridge tunnels, affecting access between Wisemans Bridge and Coppet Hall beach.

A temporary prohibition order affecting access was made by the local authority.

It stated: “The Order is necessary to ensure the safety of the public from the eroding cliff face and follows two public notices previously issued under this same Act advising of this restriction.

“The effect of the Order will be to temporarily prohibit all vehicular and non-vehicular traffic other than exempted vehicles from proceeding along the Public Right of Way SP42/ P1/3 Coppet Hall to Wisemans Bridge – from Coppet Hall Point, northeast to its junction with the access road

be rescheduled or in the event of any unforeseen circumstances.”

The top path remains open.

leading towards Hean Castle.

“It is intended that the restrictions, which will be signed accordingly, will come into effect on Thursday, February 27, and remain in force for approximately four months.

“The Order will remain valid for a maximum period of six months as a contingency should the works need to

Costs of the works for the multiple incidents had, back in March, amounted to nearly £700,000.

There is now light at the end of the tunnel for the pathway, a Pembrokeshire County Council spokesman saying: “The end of June is the target to reopen the path between Coppet Hall and Wiseman’s Bridge which has been

closed due to a landslide.

“Every effort will be made to meet the re-opening target but given the complicated nature of the works this cannot be guaranteed.”

During last year’s works, local councillor Chris Williams hit out at “selfish” path users putting others at risk by repeatedly cutting open safety barriers and fencing while the repair works were being undertaken.

Police to crush e-scooters used in anti-social behaviour

A NEW crackdown on anti-social driving in Wales could see vehicles such as e-scooters, quad bikes and off-road motorcycles seized and destroyed within 48 hours under plans unveiled by the UK Government.

Currently, police forces must wait 14 days before disposing of vehicles used in anti-social behaviour. The proposed changes would slash that delay, aiming to stop offenders reclaiming their vehicles and reduce repeat offending.

The new powers are being proposed as part of a wider UK Government consultation launched today (May 28), which seeks to fast-track the removal and disposal of nuisance vehicles from streets across Wales and England.

As part of the consultation, ministers are also proposing to remove the requirement for police officers to issue a formal warning before seizing vehicles under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.

South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Emma Wools welcomed the move, saying:

“These new powers send a clear message to would-be offenders and local communities in Wales: swift justice will be delivered and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.

“Sales of e-scooters and off-road bikes have rapidly increased, so today is

Tom

Sinclair editor@herald.email

an important step in tackling more serious crime in Wales, with the vehicles often used to facilitate drug dealing, organised acquisitive crime and serious violence.”

The move comes as part of the UK Government’s broader Plan for Change, which aims to increase police presence, clamp down on disruptive behaviour and deliver safer communities. It also follows an announcement that Wales will receive more than 150 new neighbourhood police officers by April 2026, with each neighbourhood having named and contactable officers by July next year.

Jessica Morden, Labour MP for Newport East, said the measures would be welcomed by residents.

“I know today’s announcement will be good news for many in Newport East, where concerns over the misuse of e-scooters are raised with me frequently,” she said.

“I introduced the E-scooters (Review and Awareness) Bill to Parliament last November because our laws lag behind other countries. Today’s steps are a significant move in the right direction.”

Public consultation now open

The public consultation will run for six weeks until Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

Proposals include:

• Reducing the vehicle disposal timeframe under the Police Reform Act 2002 from 14 days to 48 hours

• Reducing disposal times for uninsured or unlicensed vehicles (Road Traffic Act 1988) from 14 days to 7 days

• Aligning disposal timeframes for

vehicles seized under trespass laws (Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994)

• Updating statutory charges for vehicle removal, storage and disposal

The consultation is available at: GOV.UK – Vehicle removal, storage and disposal consultation

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

VAR could be installed at Haverfordwest County AFC stadium

A CALL to site vAR video Assistant Referee cameras and works at Haverfordwest County AFC’s football ground has been submitted to Pembrokeshire planners.

In the application to Pembrokeshire County Council, the Football Association of Wales seeks permission for the installation of a VAR video operations room and associated works at Bridge Meadow Stadium, Bridge Meadow, Haverfordwest.

A supporting statement through agent Wardell Armstrong says: “The Football Association Wales has recognised opportunities to strengthen, improve and build the standard of football and the image associated with Wales’s top football league.

“The launch of the Cymru Premier Strategy 2024-2030 has detailed plans to improve the standard of the Cymru Premier League’s club facilities, brands, and awareness, alongside strengthening the Cymru Premier ‘on pitch’ product over a six-year period.

“The implementation of VAR as part of this plan will allow referees to perform at the highest possible level, providing quality decision-making to benefit players, fans and television audiences.”

It says VAR “comprises of a Video Assistant Referee who is a qualified official that watches video footage of the game with access to multiple screens, angles and replays with the purpose of assisting the on-field officials to come

to the correct decision,” adding: “VAR is used globally, currently assisting referees in associated football leagues of over 70 countries to minimise the risk of human error and to enable the referee to make the correct decision using video technology.

“VAR Light will be deployed in the Cymru Premier from season 2025/2026 covering all Cymru Premier matches. VAR Light works on the same principles as VAR – with a Video Assistant Referee but without a replay operator.”

It goes on to say: “Imagery from VAR camera installations will be sent to a self-contained Video Operations Room, where the VAR will be situated. The match referee will undertake any

recommended on-field reviews in a designated Referee Review Area adjacent to the pitch, where a monitor will be installed on match days.

“A review of the infrastructure at the Ogi Bridge Meadow Stadium has concluded that the Video Operations Room cannot be provided within existing buildings and as such it will be necessary to provide new additional accommodation.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Pembrokeshire student celebrates DofE gold at Buckingham Palace

WHEN it comes to endurance, Pembrokeshire schoolgirl Carys Rycroft ranks up there with the elite after becoming one of the youngest people in the UK to earn the highly prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.

Completing it when she was aged just 17, Carys’ achievement was acknowledged this week when she attended a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace in the presence of Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh.

Speaking with Carys, it soon becomes apparent that her motivation levels are exemplary. At six o-clock that morning, she told me that she’d ridden Dewi, the Arab thoroughbred gelding, along a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast path as part of a training schedule for next month’s Man versus Horse’ endurance race where riders have to cover up to 24 miles of tough terrain, predominantly in the hills around Llanwrtyd Wells, and complete the ride within six hours. Last year Carys galloped her way through 60 riders to finish 15th.

To achieve the DofE Gold Award, Carys also had to spend four nights and five days on a residential expedition, which had to be carried out with people she had never previously met. She decided to join a yacht crew and sail from Hayling Island in Plymouth, to Cowes, where she learnt the intricacies of sailing and worked cohesively with her crew.

Hand-in-hand with these extreme challenges, Carys was preparing for her A’ levels in physics, chemistry, biology and art after achieving 13 A*s and one A in her GCSEs at Ysgol y Preseli in 2023.

What makes her accomplishments even more pronounced is the fact that she has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD (attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder.

“Because I’ve always loved being outdoors, doing the Duke of Edinburgh Award and training for events like the Man versus Horse endurance race is a perfectly natural thing to do,” Carys told The Herald.

“In many ways, I found travelling up to London and going to Buckingham Palace in smart clothes far more scary.

“Yes, having ASD means that mixing socially with people can sometimes

be difficult, so sailing with a crew of people I’d never met before was nervewracking. But it was as if I’d known them for years and they made the whole experience so easy. In fact the skipper said that it was one of the closest and most fun groups he’d ever had.

“I loved learning how to sail, and I definitely want to do some sailing races, but because of my A levels, this has had to be put temporarily on my to-do list.”

Like so many students as they enter Year 10, Carys promptly signed up for the bronze DofE, choosing music as her skill, (she’s a dedicated euphonium player who plays with the Goodwick Senior Brass Band the South Wales Youth Band and the Pembrokeshire Youth Brass Band), horse riding as her physical requirement and litter picking

and helping out at Fishguard Cinema for volunteering.

“Watching Carys arrive back from those walking expeditions, when she was doing the bronze and the silver DofE Awards, always made us laugh because there was Carys, skipping or running down the hill, while everyone else was exhausted,” laughed her mother, Sharon Jenkins.

“But this is so typical of her energy levels. Last year she hiked all the way across Wales for her Gold, and now she wants to walk the entire Welsh coastal path for her own personal challenge.

“She really is an incredibly strong person who’s achieving so much, but also being so determined to do all these new challenges. Her ASD specialist recently told me that if she hadn’t been given the opportunity to take part in all these different things from a very young age, she’d probably be unable to cope with her day to day life.”

Meanwhile Carys is preparing for her next academic venture, with a view to studying medicine and forensic pathology.

“I’m still not sure which universities to apply for, but wherever I end up, I’ll most definitely be carrying on with my horse riding and sailing,” she said. “I’m also trying to find out which universities have brass bands in their area.

“The DofE has been a brilliant way for me to expand on interests I already had, as well as giving me the chance to try out new ones, such as sailing. But most importantly, it’s helped me see that once I set my mind to achieve something, dedication and determination will always help me succeed.”

Sarah Jane Absalom sarah.jane.absalom@herald.email

Llandeilo Antiques and Vintage Fair has some stunning sought after Mocha ware

THE next Antiques and vintage fair to be held at the Civic Hall Llandeilo, will be on Saturday 7 th June The fair provides visitors with inspiration and a choice of antiques and vintage at affordable prices.

The fair can be located in the heart of Llandeilo, close to the main car park. Here you will find a bustling, vibrant Fair with lots of antiques and vintage to whet your appetite. The fair now includes a vintage element with a touch of retro and some impressive outside stands.

Being a Welsh Fair it is understandable that there should be a good selection of Welsh items on offer. Whether it’s an original Welsh watercolour or oil painting or a piece of Welsh pottery or examples of Welsh textiles, visitors will be surprised by the variety on offer.

One area of collecting that has risen in popularity is the collecting of a pottery called mocha ware.

Once these vessels were found only in pubs and taverns, mochaware ceramics have risen through the ranks to become a popular collecting

Each and every piece of mochaware is handmade and unique , from mottled, watercolour designs reminiscent of seaweed or trees, to concentric rings of abstract shapes, mochaware pieces are both collectable and affordable.

Mocha decorated pottery (also known as the “ Mocha Tea “ technique) is a type of dipped ware(slip-decorated, latheturned, utilitarian earthenware), mocha or mochaware, in addition to colored slip bands on white and buff-colored bodies, is adorned with dendritic (treelike or branching) markings resembling the natural geological markings on moss agate, known as “mocha stone” in Great Britain in the late 18th century. The stone was imported from Arabia through the port of Mocha (al Mukha in Yemen) from whence came large supplies of coffee. An unknown potter or turner discovered that by dripping a colored acidic solution into wet alkaline slip on a pot body, the color would instantly ramify into the dendritic random markings that fit into the tradition of imitating geological surfaces prevalent in the potteries of that period. The earliest known dated example (1799) is a mug in the collection of the Christchurch Mansion Museum in Ipswich,.

Manufactured by potteries throughout Great Britain, France, and North America, mocha was the cheapest decorated ware available. Most British production went to export ,whereas France and North America manufactured for the home markets. Archaeological finds throughout the eastern United States suggest that mocha was used in taverns and homes, from lowly slave quarters to Thomas Jefferson’s

Monticello and Poplar Forest. After the mid 19th century, British imports waned, with those potteries still making mocha concentrating on government-stamped capacity-verified measures (jugs and mugs) for use in pubs and markets. North American product was based entirely on yellow or buff-colored bodies banded in black with broad white slip bands on which the dendritic markings appeared. Some British makers used yellow-firing clay, too, but the bulk of the wares were based on white bodies, the earliest being creamware and pearlware, while later, heavier and thicker bodies resembled ironstone, known best to archaeologists simply as “whiteware”.

They were practical and sturdy ceramic vessels that were affordable to buy, and made for day-to-day activities such as supping ale or cider.

Age is another factor that can affect value. Although mocha dates from the 1700s, it was made in vast quantities in the 20th century. ‘They seldom are marked by their maker, but look for any ‘excise’ marks, especially on mugs and tankards.These marks were used to show what capacity the vessel could hold – quart, pint or half-pint. A guide of the date of manufacture , can be found from these marks as they have

the monarch’s initials on them so ‘VR’ would mean the piece was Victorian.’

However, manufacturers only began to register their designs from around the 1830s onwards, so you won’t find marks on all examples of mochaware.

There is a glazing technique that gives rise to complex dendritic patterns on pottery. Sometimes called Mocha diffusion, the resulting pieces are called Mochaware. The name Mocha comes from the Red sea port of Mocha, now in Yemen, a city associated in England with the export of dendritic, or moss agates (Mocha stone). The technique dates from the 1780s, and was invented in Staffordshire in the UK. The earliest written reference to it comes from the Lakin & Poole factory in Staffordshire, and mentions “mocoe beakers” in 1792-1796. The term “mochaware” has unfortunately expanded to include many types of slip decoration which do not involve the dendritic patterns at all.

The original recipe involves a “tea” made by boiling tobacco, which is then colored with e.g. Iron oxide. The piece is first coated with a wet “slip” (very runny clay/water mixture). Then the tea mixture is touched onto the wet surface. The acidic tea reacts with the alkaline slip and the dendrites grow quickly from

the point of contact.

The dendritic pattern is clearly the result of a dynamic process in which the contact line between the two liquids, tea and The most common types of mochaware are those with the traditional tree-like pattern on a white background with blue and beige bands. ‘Any variations from this traditional design are more collectable and will often fetch more money. ‘Larger pieces are also worth more, as fewer of them were made.There will be some of this Mocha ware available at the Llandeilo Fair

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

Homemade refreshments will be available and doors open at 10 am until 4pm.Admission is £2 and dogs are welcome at this busy fair

Stormtroopers bring a galactic twist to 1940s big band celebration in Pembroke Dock

FROM a galaxy far, far away, Star Wars Stormtroopers have landed in Pembroke Dock – and they’re turning up the firepower ahead of a 1940s Big Band Night next month.

The costumed characters made an eye-catching appearance at the Falcon Fun Day held on Bank Holiday Monday at the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre. The event, now a popular annual celebration for sci-fi fans, saw crowds of enthusiasts and families gather to enjoy a day of cosplay and re-enactments –with Stormtroopers once again stealing the show.

Their surprise appearance also heralded the return of the Centre’s highly anticipated Forties Dance, taking place on Saturday, June 21st. The evening will feature music from The Phil Dando Big Band and vocals from Forties tribute singer Peri Lynn – known locally as Peri Thomas – who grew up in the area.

The dance will be held in a marquee at the historic former Royal Dockyard, with street food vendors on hand to keep guests fuelled for the night. Doors open at 6:00pm, with the band striking up at 8:00pm.

Tickets, priced at £25, are available from the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre (Tel: 01646 684220), the Town Council offices on Dimond Street (Tel: 01646 684110), or online via Eventbrite.

New summer train timetable brings extra services to and from Pembrokeshire

A NEW summer train timetable came into effect from earlier this month, bringing a few additional services to and from Pembrokeshire — though the overall schedule remains largely unchanged.

The updated timetable, which applies across West Wales, includes new weekday shuttle services between Carmarthen and Tenby, extra through-trains on

Saturdays between London Paddington and Pembroke Dock, and the return of early Sunday morning connections to key destinations.

WEEKDAY IMPROvEMENTS

On Mondays to Fridays, two new shuttle services will run from Carmarthen to Tenby at 9:56am and 1:55pm, returning from

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Tenby at 10:40am and 2:39pm. Notably, the 10:40am departure from Tenby links with a service at Carmarthen that arrives at London Paddington at 3:12pm — offering an attractive mid-morning connection for tourists and business travellers alike. These shuttles will stop at Whitland en route.

SATURDAY CHANGES

As in previous years, summer Saturdays will see the reintroduction of direct Great Western Railway services between Paddington and Pembroke Dock. Trains will depart Pembroke Dock at 10:02am and 3:02pm, calling at Tenby around 30 minutes later, and arrive in London at 3:13pm and 8:13pm respectively.

The inbound services begin early, with one train starting from Swansea at 7:18am and another leaving Paddington at 8:48am to arrive in Pembroke Dock at 1:50pm. Due to these additions, Saturday services follow a slightly different timetable from weekday patterns, so passengers are advised to check their journey using the

online planners.

SUNDAY SERvICES RETURN

Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock also benefit from the return of early summer Sunday services. An additional morning arrival into Milford Haven will depart again at 9:35am, bound for Carmarthen, Swansea, Cardiff, and Manchester.

Pembroke Dock regains its seasonal early train from Swansea, departing at 8:14am and arriving in Tenby at 9:51am and Pembroke Dock at 10:24am. This service then departs again at 10:27am and 10:59am (from Tenby) for return journeys east.

PLAN AHEAD ON SUNDAY MORNING

However, passengers should take note: due to engineering works, bus replacement services will be in operation between Pembrokeshire and Swansea on the morning of Sunday, May 18. Travel from Milford Haven to Swansea is expected to take up to three hours.

As the summer season approaches, the new services are expected to benefit both locals and tourists seeking to make the most of Pembrokeshire’s coastal charm.

Stormtroopers support the 1940s Big Band Night at Pembroke Dock (Pic: Martin Cavaney Photography)

Haverfordwest fashion show raises over £3,000 for TY Hafan

A SELL-OUT charity fashion show in Haverfordwest has raised a remarkable £3,100 for children’s hospice Tŷ Hafan, thanks to the efforts of the Burton Friends of Tŷ Hafan committee and local boutique owner Sandra Cromwell.

Held on Thursday, May 15, at the stylish Forbidden Florist venue, the event brought together supporters for an afternoon of fashion, food and fundraising. Guests enjoyed a twocourse lunch while previewing the latest summer season collection from Boutique 1625, now located upstairs at No.5 Quay Street, Haverfordwest.

The event was spearheaded by the Burton Friends of Tŷ Hafan – a passionate volunteer group dedicated to supporting the hospice – with Boutique 1625’s owner Sandra Cromwell playing a central role.

“We are absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity and support shown at the fashion show,” said Sandra Cromwell.

“It was a truly fantastic day, and to raise such a significant amount for Tŷ Hafan, a charity close to our hearts, is incredibly rewarding. The atmosphere was electric, and it was wonderful to see so many people come together for such a worthy cause.”

The committee has extended heartfelt thanks to the Forbidden Florist for their hospitality and beautifully presented meal, as well as to the volunteers, models, sponsors, and all who helped make the day a success.

All proceeds from the event will go directly to Tŷ Hafan, supporting its vital work caring for life-limited children and their families across Wales.

Photographs by Roxanne Social Media.

New Deputy District Officer appointed for West Wales Sea Cadets

THE SEA CADETS in West Wales have welcomed the appointment of a new Deputy District Officer, with Lieutenant (SCC) Steve Grant RNR stepping into the role.

Lt Grant brings with him a wealth of experience, particularly in delivering high-quality cadet experiences across a range of activities, including afloat training, competitions, and recreational programmes. His leadership is expected to strengthen the coordination and support available to cadet units across the district.

The appointment has been warmly received by units across the region, including Aberystwyth, Carmarthen, Fishguard, Llanelli, Milford Haven, Neath, Port Talbot, Swansea, and Tenby Sea

Cadets. The broader South West Area team, including senior staff and Royal Marines Cadets, have also extended their congratulations.

A spokesperson for the West Wales district said: “We are delighted to welcome Lt Grant to the team. His passion for youth development and his operational knowledge of cadet training will be an asset to our area. We look forward to working with him as we continue to grow and enhance the cadet experience.”

Lt Grant’s appointment is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regional leadership and ensure cadets across West Wales continue to receive safe, enriching, and exciting opportunities both on land and at sea.

Couple lead annual walk in memory of father lost to Parkinson’s

WALKERS across Pembrokeshire are being urged to take part in the 2025 Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson’s, an annual charity event that has raised tens of thousands of pounds for vital medical research.

Organised by Bob Ratcliffe and his wife Jane in memory of Bob’s late father, the event will take place on Saturday, 7th June, starting at Haverfordwest Cricket Club, with registration from 10:00am. Entry costs £15, with all proceeds going to Parkinson’s UK.

The walk, a scenic 7.8km circular route with planned refreshment stops, welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Dogs on leads are also welcome.

The fundraiser was first launched in 2011, following the death of Bob’s father in 2010. His brain and spinal column were donated to Parkinson’s research—a gesture that inspired the family to continue raising awareness and funds. Since then, more than £50,000 has been raised through the walks and related events.

Bob said: “This is the fourth official Haverfordwest Walk for Parkinson’s and we’re hoping it will be the biggest and best yet. We’ve got a little surprise planned for walkers and shoppers

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around Castle Square at noon, so even if you can’t complete the full walk, come and join us to show your support.”

He also extended his thanks to Haverfordwest Rotary Club and the many local businesses donating raffle prizes.

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects around 153,000 people in the UK, including 8,300 in Wales. There are over 40 symptoms, ranging from tremor and muscle rigidity to depression and fatigue. There is currently no cure.

Keri McKie, Wales Community Fundraiser for Parkinson’s UK Cymru, praised Bob’s efforts: “We are incredibly grateful to Bob and Jane for their continued dedication. Events like this are a lifeline for our research and support services. Whether you live with Parkinson’s or simply want to help, this walk is a fantastic way to make a difference.”

For more information, contact Bob Ratcliffe on 07887 707496 or email bobratcliffe@btinternet.com.

Marine detectives shine a light on secret lives of Cardigan Bay dolphins

SOME of the mysteries surrounding the underwater lives of Cardigan Bay’s bottlenose dolphins are being uncovered as part of an innovative research project.

Researchers from the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales are spending time at sea collecting the dolphins’ poo to learn more about their diet and behaviour.

The stool samples are then being analysed by scientists at Aberystwyth University, who are using the latest environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques to extract detailed data on the animals’ diet.

As well as showing what prey the dolphins have been feeding on and where, the tests will help build individual profiles for each one.

These profiles will enable the project team to identify the dolphins’ gender, the relationships between family members, population size, breeding potential and movement patterns.

In addition, they will attempt to match and compare each unique profile with individual photo ID records of bottlenose dolphins which have been gathered by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales over several years.

The new information will inform future marine conservation efforts in Cardigan Bay and help protect the area’s rare population of semi-resident dolphins.

The ‘Dolphin Diet Detectives: Unveiling Dolphin Diets and Engaging Communities for UK Conservation’

project is being led by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales in collaboration with Aberystwyth University, with support from the Welsh Government’s Nature Networks Fund.

Dr Sarah Perry, Marine Conservation and Research Manager at the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales said:

“We are thrilled to be leading this groundbreaking project, using cuttingedge environmental DNA (eDNA) and genetic techniques to unravel the mysteries of bottlenose dolphin ecology in Cardigan Bay. This project covers an area of research that we

have aspired to embark on over the past decade or so and we are excited that it has come to fruition at a time when it is even more important that we build on our knowledge of the species in the waters around us.

“Our focus on understanding dolphin diet, population dynamics and interactions with prey species through innovative research methods will not only inform vital conservation strategies but also actively involve the community. This project is a collaborative endeavour, uniting science and community for a sustainable future.”

As part of the project, a series of community science days will give local

people opportunities to find out more about the research study and help collect additional data about Cardigan Bay’s dolphin population.

Dr David Wilcockson from the Department of the Life Sciences at Aberystwyth University said:

“Our team is delighted to be a partner on this exciting research project. Our molecular genetic and marine biology expertise dovetails with the excellent monitoring and conservation work of the Wildlife Trust and should reveal some long-kept secrets of dolphin biology.

“What is really exciting for us, aside from finding out more about what dolphins are eating and their behaviours, is the fact that we are involving the public in this work. They are the ‘dolphin detectives’ and we hope this will provide another pathway by which they can feel more connected to their local environment and encourage conservation activities beyond the project.”

Water samples will also be collected at various times and locations throughout Cardigan Bay, with eDNA methods again being used to understand prey availability. These findings will be validated by researchers who will use Baited Underwater Video Systems to record the presence of marine species in the area at the time. This project is funded by the Nature Networks Programme. It is being delivered by the Heritage Fund, on behalf of the Welsh Government.

Caption: Bob and Jane Ratcliffe and Lynne Whiting at a previous walk (Pic: Supplied)

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Ashmole & Co raise more than £16,000 for Welsh cancer charity

STAFF at Ashmole & Co have raised more than £16,000 for Tenovus Cancer Care following a year of ambitious fundraising challenges, including skydives, marathons and charity walks.

The accountancy firm’s team pulled together across its Welsh offices to raise a total of £16,109.55 for the cancer support charity. Among the highlights was a tandem skydive over the Gower coastline, completed by ten thrill-seeking staff members.

Partner Jim Cornock took on both the London Marathon and the notoriously gruelling Marathon Eryri last autumn, while Helen James from the Ammanford office organised a fundraising entertainment evening that brought in more than £1,600. Other events included a 12-mile sponsored walk along the Swansea coastal path and regular dress-down Fridays and cake sales in offices across the region.

Sharon George, Partner at the Carmarthen office, said: “Everyone knows someone affected by cancer. We wanted to support a charity based here in Wales, and Tenovus Cancer Care does incredible work helping families across the country. We’re so grateful to our clients and friends who contributed to this effort—it’s thanks to them we’ve raised such a significant amount.”

when it’s needed most.”

The funds raised will cover one month’s costs to operate one of Tenovus’ Mobile Support Units, which deliver vital cancer treatments and services directly to Welsh communities.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Ashmole & Co for their dedication over the past year. The money they’ve raised will make a real difference to cancer patients and their families, helping us provide treatment, expert advice and emotional support

Tenovus Cancer Care supports people affected by cancer across Wales through a wide range of services, including a free support line, community choirs, and its Mobile Support Units. For more information, visit www. tenovuscancercare.org.uk.

Clare Davies, Regional Fundraising Manager for Tenovus, added:

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Tributes paid to long-serving RNLI photographer Lyndon Lomax

A MUCH-LOvED volunteer who captured decades of memories at St Davids RNLI lifeboat station has died.

Lyndon Lomax, described as the station’s unofficial photographer, spent more than 30 years documenting lifeboat life through his lens. His images, often used in press releases and crew mementoes, formed a visual record of the station’s history.

He took what would be his final crew photograph on a windy evening in July 2023—a picture now held especially dear by those who knew him. Rarely one to seek the spotlight, Lyndon was famously camera-shy himself, making any photo of the man behind the camera a rarity.

In a tribute posted by St Davids RNLI, the crew said: “Lyndon was a friend to all and he will be sorely missed at the station. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family.”

His decades of quiet service have left a lasting legacy for generations of lifeboat volunteers and supporters.

Holiday development plans for Pembrokeshire zorbing centre

PLANS for a Pembrokeshire holiday development at the site of a former pony trekking and zorbing activity centre, which had to stop due to the impact of the Covid pandemic, have been lodged with the national park.

Zorbing is a sports activity rolling downhill inside an orb, usually made of see-through plastic.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Lawson and Penny Owen, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, seek a partly-retrospective permission for nine self-contained holiday units and a twin-unit shepherd’s hut, along with associated works, on land south of

Nolton Stables, Nolton, Haverfordwest.

A supporting statement says: “There are two distinct elements to the proposal with the larger being the provision of five pods and four lodges which will be accessed by a farm track which leads south towards a former quarry and thence to the shoreline,” adding: “The second and smaller element involves contains a virtually flat area with a separate but adjacent access from the local highway on which a 12 space car park is proposed together with the retention of a Shepherd’s Hut (a unit of

holiday accommodation) and its separate garden and parking area.”

The retrospective element refers to a park enforcement officer informing the applicant of a breach in planning control for the shepherd’s hut.

The statement says the Shepherd’s Hut is the most suitable for those with limited mobility as it does not require use of the unpaved track to a pod or lodge.

The total development amounts to only a small proportion of the circa 400 acres across four farms all of which are in the ownership of a partnership comprising two brothers (of which Mr Lawson Owen is one) and their respective families.

The statement adds: “The income from

the proposed holiday accommodation will form a smaller proportion than that derived from the agricultural activities undertaken across the four farms – an example of farm diversification where the agricultural activities remain the major element.

“In previous years the applicants operated a pony trekking enterprise and a Zorbing activity as part of a farm diversification strategy.

“Unfortunately, Covid required the cessation of both activities and therefore both a loss of income for the Partnership as well local jobs for those in the Nolton community.”

It says the applicants have previously operated a 2.3 acre campsite which has been managed as an exempted site under license from the Camping and Caravanning Club for over five years, an outside cinema for up to 28 days per year for a period in excess of five years, and the Zorbing experience, and the applicants are considering modifying an existing building within the Nolton Stables complex as a wedding venue.

It concluded: “It should also be noted that this proposal is in substitution for the operation of a successful pony trekking enterprise and a smaller scale Zorbing activity both of which had to be abandoned because of Covid-19 and the associated requirements to minimise personal contact.

“The applicants have a history of diversification of their farming activities in and around Nolton. It is anticipated that this new enterprise will restore those jobs lost due to Covid and hopefully increase opportunities both in the construction industry and in hospitality.”

The application will be considered by park planners at a later date.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Instagrammable footbridge arrives this week

A CONTROvERSIAL and costly footbridge dubbed “Instagrammable” by critics will begin arriving in Haverfordwest this week, with Pembrokeshire County Council confirming the first deliveries from Tuesday (May 27).

The new structure, part of the wider multi-million-pound Riverside redevelopment project, has faced scrutiny over its price tag and perceived lack of practical benefit to residents. Despite that, the project is moving ahead — and the bridge itself is now en route from its Cardiff-based fabricator.

The delivery will be conducted over four days, involving a 220-tonne crane and several large articulated vehicles. The delivery schedule is as follows:

• May 27: Crane, support vehicle and temporary works delivered

• May 28: East section of the bridge

• May 29: Two deliveries of the middle sections

• May 30: Two deliveries of the west sections, followed by crane demobilisation

The vehicles will access the site via the A40 and Cartlett Road, entering the temporary bus station exit and reversing

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into the service yard. Traffic marshals will be present to manage pedestrian safety, though some disruption is expected.

Bus services will continue to run, with deliveries timed to avoid peak bus movements where possible.

The bridge will then be assembled on site, with final finishing works expected

before installation in mid-August. While council officials insist the bridge will enhance the visual appeal and connectivity of the town centre, critics have slammed the project as “a waste of public money” during a time of rising council tax and squeezed local services.

The footbridge is part of the wider Heart of Pembrokeshire regeneration scheme, which carries a budget of approximately £25.4 million.

The bridge alone has been budgeted

at £5.7 million, with around £5.1 million (90%) coming from Levelling Up Fund grant and UK government sources.

That leaves Pembrokeshire County Council contributing roughly £600,000 towards the bridge works, although Pembrokeshire County Council has not confirmed the final figure.

The council has apologised in advance for any inconvenience caused by the traffic disruption during this week’s deliveries.

Three choirs unite in Tenby for charity concert

A CHANCE encounter at a bowls competition in Westport, on Ireland’s west coast, sparked a memorable evening of music and friendship at St Mary’s Church, Tenby.

The connection began when Ed Morris, a baritone with Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir and a member of Pembroke Farmers’ Club, struck up a conversation with a member of the Tredagh Singers from Drogheda, north of Dublin. The singer, coincidentally the sister of Ed’s neighbour, was also attending the competition.

Eighteen months later, that chance meeting led to a spectacular joint concert featuring the Tredagh Singers, Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir, and the

ladies of Serendipity Choir from Narberth. The well-attended evening raised over £3,000 in aid of Prostate Cymru and Pancreatic Cancer UK. Each choir performed its own programme to warm applause before joining together for a stirring finale of the Welsh classic Calon Lân and You’ll Never Walk Alone.

Brian Harries, chairman of the Pembrokeshire Friends of Prostate Cymru and a member of Haverfordwest Male Voice Choir, served as MC and also took part in the final numbers alongside longserving Pembroke tenor John Kilcoyne.

Juliet Rossiter, musical director of both local choirs, conducted a total of 14 pieces on the night. Accompanists were Heather Williams for Serendipity and William Lambert for Pembroke.

During the event, gifts were exchanged as a token of friendship. Tredagh chairman Vincent Moore presented a framed score of Calon Lân, adorned with silhouettes of Drogheda landmarks, along with a bottle of local whiskey. In return, Pembroke chairman Huw Morgan gifted a print of Barafundle Bay—one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic beaches.

Members of both Welsh choirs expressed hopes for future exchanges with the Tredagh Singers, both in Wales and across the Irish Sea.

MIKE EDWARDS

THERE are some things that make my blood boil.

While the wife is inclined to spiral into a mixture of homicidal rage and murderous outrage at the drop of a pin (literally), I am a very much more placid and kindly character. It takes something especially annoying to make me lose my cool – England beating Wales at Rugby Union –Stuart Barnes’ commentary, the prospect of spending money on presents for the wife’s extended (and protracted) family, and being deprived of tea.

Top of the list, however, is inconsiderate parking.

Last weekend, my beloved and I made our way to the shops to buy the essentials of daily life –Glengettie, tinned pilchards, and the like. We arrived amid the local festival of appalling parking, which was a surprise as there was no advert in the paper and neither was there any bunting.

Instead there was a car park with car parking spaces carefully marked out, no doubt at considerable cost. The car park was not particularly busy. It being a fine and sunny day, it was likely that many young families and their progeny were at the beach.

The wife was driving.

She located a spot and – unlike almost every other driver in the car park – managed to get into the space in one go and within the lines painted on the tarmac.

Off we went into the shops and bought what we needed. We put our bags into the boot and I walked round to the passenger seat. And there it was.

A scratch. Not a little scratch, but the sort of scratch caused by an impact that the driver of the other car had to have noticed.

I looked at the car parked next to me, but there was not a mark upon it.

I pointed it out to the wife, who was rather less concerned than I was. It would, she assured me, polish out no problem.

My eyes boggled.

The wife was calm and I was apoplectic, gesturing furiously at the near side bumper and wing.

I was instantly suspicious and paused for a moment. The wife appeared all innocent concern. That was the dead giveaway. She never looks either innocent or concerned unless she makes a special effort.

I knew. And she knew I knew. She could see that I knew she knew that I knew. But what neither of us knew nor could know was precisely how to phrase the next part of our conversation.

She blinked first.

I knew she could see that I knew she knew that I knew. I had a choice. Did I cash in the knowledge I had or save it for a rainy day? The sun was shining. There would be a need for an umbrella in the future.

I made the sensible choice.

Choir chairmen Huw Morgan (left) and Vincent Moore exchange gifts (Pic: P&DMVC)

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Young voices light up cathedral as children’s chorus launches 2025 music festival

A CHILDREN’S chorus brought a packed St Davids Cathedral to life on Saturday (May 24) as this year’s Cathedral Music Festival officially got underway.

The performance marked the launch of the 2025 festival and was led by renowned choral director Suzzie Vango, whose energy and enthusiasm inspired dozens of young performers from across Pembrokeshire.

Singing beneath the towering cathedral organ and the historic nave’s vaulted ceiling, the children delivered a programme of uplifting and challenging repertoire to a captivated audience.

The concert followed a lively morning performance from the choristers in the North Transept, where songs from The Lion King and Adele were among the crowd favourites during the ‘Choristers Unplugged’ session.

Suzzie Vango, who has worked with the London Symphony Orchestra, National Youth Choirs and the AB Choir Directors, led the evening performance with warmth and precision. Under her direction, the children’s voices filled the ancient building with powerful harmonies and joyful expression.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Speaking to The Herald after the concert, one audience member said: “It was incredibly moving to see so many young people singing their hearts out in such a beautiful setting. You could see how proud their families were.”

The children’s chorus is just one part of this year’s ambitious festival programme, which continues until Wednesday (May 28). Performers include the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, The Queen’s Six, clarinettist Emma Johnson, and a range of vocal and instrumental ensembles.

The organisers say the aim of the festival is to celebrate musical excellence while making performances accessible to local people. Children under 18 were given free entry to the launch concert.

The Cathedral Music Festival, now in its 44th year, is one of the highlights of the cultural calendar in West Wales and draws audiences from across the UK.

Tickets for remaining events are available from the cathedral’s website and box office.

Michael Sheen visits Fishguard theatre as part of national mission

FISHGUARD’S community-run theatre was paid a surprise visit last week by none other than Welsh acting legend Michael Sheen.

The acclaimed actor and activist stopped by Theatr Gwaun as part of his new role as artistic director of the recently launched Welsh National Theatre. Describing the venue as “such a beautiful theatre,” Sheen spent time at Martha’s Bar meeting with staff and learning more about what local audiences want to see on stage.

Speaking during his visit, Sheen said the aim of his new company is to create meaningful productions that reflect Welsh identity and can tour both major venues like Cardiff’s Millennium Centre and smaller stages across the country.

“One of the most important things to do at the start is to get out there,” he said. “Visit theatres, see what’s happening,

hear what excites people, and understand what matters to different communities. That’s how we begin to serve them properly.”

Sheen also said he hopes Welsh National Theatre will help bring powerful Welsh stories to both local and global audiences. While large stages remain part of the plan, he emphasised the importance of smaller spaces: “It’s about being able to perform on the world’s biggest stages, but also in places like this—beautiful little theatres rooted in their communities.”

The new theatre company is being funded out of Sheen’s own pocket for now. It was launched following the collapse of National Theatre Wales after £1.6 million in cuts were made by Arts Council Wales earlier this year.

“I want this to represent the rich culture we’ve always had in Wales,” he said.

Live music coming to Broad Haven this June

A NIGHT of live music and entertainment is heading to Broad Haven as part of a new summer event hosted by the Havens Events Crew.

Taking place at the Youth Hostel in Broad Haven on Friday 27 June 2025, the evening promises a mix of bands, DJs and interactive performances, running from 6:00pm until late.

The event will feature live music from local group Honey Fungus, known for their upbeat sets and eclectic style, alongside a high-energy set from DJ Escher & Laura Love, combining live vocals with electronic dance beats.

Also appearing on the line-up is the Human Jukebox, an interactive act

where the audience gets to choose the tunes.

Tickets for the event are priced at £10, with further details to be announced in the coming days. The organisers say they are expecting a strong turnout as the community embraces the start of summer with music and dancing by the sea.

The event is being organised by the Havens Events Crew, a local group formed in 2023 to bring more arts and community activities to the St Bride’s Bay area.

More information about the night will be available soon on the group’s social media and at local outlets.

CLARKSON’s FARM 4

JEREMY CLARKSON returns to Prime video with Clarkson’s Farm Season 4, and while the show remains rooted in its signature blend of wit and rural grit, it’s also clear that the series is evolving—both in tone and focus. As Clarkson embarks on new ventures and navigates significant personal and professional changes, this latest installment presents a more reflective and, at times, emotionally charged narrative.

This season finds Clarkson venturing beyond the usual chaos of crop cycles and cattle mishaps. The headline endeavor is his attempt to open a gastropub, The Farmer’s Dog, complete with a butcher’s and farm shop. These additions are meant to breathe new life into the Diddly Squat brand but come with an avalanche of red tape, community pushback, and financial uncertainty. The once straight-talking farmer is now also a restauranteur—and the transition isn’t always seamless.

Notably absent this season are two of the show’s most beloved characters: Kaleb Cooper and Lisa Hogan. Kaleb’s salt-of-theearth charm and Lisa’s pragmatic presence have both been key ingredients in the show’s previous success. Their absence leaves

Clarkson shouldering more of the farm’s demands alone, and that void is palpable. In their place, a fresh face enters the scene: Harriet Cowan, a young and highly capable farmer who brings her own modern sensibility to Diddly Squat. Harriet quickly proves indispensable. With her calm demeanor and savvy use of social media, she offers a compelling counterpoint to Clarkson’s bluster. Her presence also highlights a broader theme in the show—how young farmers are coping with the pressures of a challenging industry. She speaks openly about mental health and the importance of community, themes rarely explored in mainstream entertainment, especially in farming contexts.

Despite the changes, the humor that fans have come to expect is still very much intact. Clarkson remains delightfully incapable of operating a tractor without incident, and his interactions with local authorities continue to be a masterclass in bureaucratic frustration. Yet, there’s an undeniable shift in tone. Clarkson himself opens up about personal struggles, including a recent heart scare and his use of weight loss injections, reflecting a more vulnerable and human side that has rarely been seen on screen.

Critics have offered a mixed reception to the season. Some have praised its continued relevance and its role in promoting British agriculture. Others feel that the show is veering too far from its original premise—replacing the unfiltered joys and pains of farming life with entrepreneurial side quests that dilute the authenticity. It’s a valid concern. The show’s charm was always its honest depiction of a man hilariously out of his depth, trying (and often failing) to make it in the world of farming.

Still, Clarkson’s Farm remains a compelling watch. It’s no longer just a show about a celebrity playing farmer—it’s about the evolving nature of rural life, the challenges faced by real people in the countryside, and the personal growth that can come from embracing the unknown. Whether or not it matches the magic of its earlier seasons, Season 4 succeeds in expanding the conversation around farming in Britain.

In the end, Clarkson’s Farm Season 4 is a bold step forward. It may not please every purist, but it continues to educate, entertain, and surprise in equal measure. If nothing else, it proves that even at Diddly Squat, the only constant is change.

KARATE KID legends

THE KARATE KID franchise has always stood the test of time by capturing the heart of martial arts storytelling: perseverance, honor, and mentorship. With Karate Kid: Legends, director Jonathan Entwistle takes on the ambitious task of uniting the saga’s two parallel legacies— Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso and Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han—into one cohesive narrative. The result is a film that balances homage and innovation, though not without a few stumbles.

Set in present-day New York City, Legends introduces us to Li Fong, a teenage kung fu prodigy played by Ben Wang (American Born Chinese). After relocating from China, Li struggles to find his place in a new environment until he’s drawn into a local martial arts competition that echoes the spirit of the original All

Valley Tournament. He eventually finds not one but two mentors: the meditative and philosophical Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) and the passionate, if somewhat reluctant, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio).

What makes this installment intriguing is its cross-generational approach. Chan and Macchio, whose respective characters never coexisted in prior films, share a genuine onscreen chemistry that fans of both series will appreciate. Their dual mentorship offers a symbolic passing of the torch while celebrating the depth of their own legacies. Macchio’s LaRusso, now older and more grounded, is portrayed as a man exactly where he was always meant to be—an echo of the past trying to guide the future.

However, not everything lands as solidly as a well-placed crane kick. Some early viewers have

voiced frustration over the film’s pacing and structure. Notably, Daniel LaRusso doesn’t appear until nearly an hour into the movie, leaving longtime fans yearning for more screen time with the beloved character. Others have criticized the limited development of side characters and a formulaic plot that, at times, feels more nostalgic than innovative.

Still, the heart of the film lies in its emotional beats—Li Fong’s struggle to adapt, the crosscultural mentorship, and the larger themes of discipline and identity. It’s clear that Legends is more than just a sequel; it’s a convergence point. By bringing together two generations of Karate Kid lore, the film attempts to redefine what a mentorstudent relationship looks like in the modern world.

As of this writing, Karate Kid: Legends has not yet been scored on Rotten Tomatoes, and the full critical consensus is still forming. But for fans of the franchise, especially those who’ve followed it from 1984 to the present day, this film offers a rewarding— if imperfect—journey down memory lane.

Whether Legends will stand as a defining chapter or simply a nostalgic reunion remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the spirit of The Karate Kid endures, wax on and wax off.

Tech and Taff

DEATH ON A STRING: RUSSIAN TECH BRING NEW TERROR TO UKRAINE

IMAGINE hearing a faint buzzing above your head and knowing it might be your last few seconds. That’s the brutal reality now facing Ukrainian soldiers – and it’s all down to the latest Russian trickery: fibre-optic drones.

A far cry from your da’s DJI drone flying over Castell Henllys, these bad boys are tethered to their pilot by an actual cable. No radio signals, no GPS – just a physical wire trailing through the air like a fishing line of doom. You can’t jam them. You can’t spoof them. And unless you’ve got a very long pair of scissors, you’re in trouble.

When a TV crew rocked up in the town of Rodynske (a bit like turning up to Tenby and finding the seafront missing), they were greeted not with tea and sarnies but the stench of smoke and rubble. A 250kg glide bomb had taken out the town hall and several homes. The air was thick. The ground shaking. And then the buzzing began.

“We legged it for the nearest tree,” one reporter said. Not exactly standard battlefield protocol, but when a Russian drone is eyeing you up like a seagull with a chip, any cover will do.

It’s a strange battlefield, this. These fibre-optic drones don’t broadcast signals like the usual ones. Instead, they’re literally plugged into the pilot’s controller with tens of kilometres of cable. It’s as if someone crossed a deadly flying robot with your Nan’s clothesline.

Moderator, a drone builder with the Ukrainian forces (and presumably not the same one from your village Facebook group), explained it simply: “You can’t jam them because there’s no signal to jam.”

Handy for the Russians. Less handy if you’re trying to sneak a tank

past one without being turned into modern art.

That’s now the running joke in the Ukrainian trenches. Except it’s not all that funny when you’re waiting days to move because you might be spotted –and shredded – by one of these things.

Serhii, with the 5th Assault Brigade, says the Russians are upping their game. Mortars, rockets, quad bikes, and now drones on string. It’s like Call of Duty meets Dŵr Cymru cabling department.

Meanwhile, soldiers like Oles and Maksym are stuck in muddy holes for weeks at a time. Maksym used to work for a soft drinks company. Now, he’s dodging drones and missing his twoyear-old boy back home.

“The war’s not just bullets and bombs anymore,” he says. “It’s wires and waiting.”

This isn’t a war of clean lines and red zones on a map. It’s like watching a chess game while someone keeps shaking the board.

Russian troops are slipping in on bikes, creeping behind lines, and changing tactics faster than your average Assembly minister changes their mind.

There’s still fight left in Ukraine. But with Russia churning out these new cable-connected death-kites, and the West slow to catch up, the pressure’s rising.

Drones on a string. Artillery in your garden. Soldiers with scissors. It might sound mad – but this is the cutting edge of modern warfare, where cables and coddlers matter more than tanks.

And the worst part? The lads on the ground are still just ordinary blokes, like Maksym – missing his family, cracking grim jokes, and waiting for a wind strong enough to give them a shot at surviving another day.

It’s war, Wales – but not as we knew it.

Charity gig to rock Haverfordwest in aid of Air Ambulance and Megan’s Star

A NIGHT of live music is set to hit all the right notes in Haverfordwest this September, with a charity gig in support of the Wales Air Ambulance and Megan’s Star.

Local music lovers are invited to the Cricket Club in Haverfordwest on Friday, September 20, for an evening of performances from three energetic homegrown bands: BLACKSAILS, THE DOOVAYZ and GREENJAM.

The live music kicks off at 4:00pm with BLACKSAILS opening the show, followed by THE DOOVAYZ taking to the stage from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. The night will round off with a highenergy performance from GREENJAM between 9:00pm and 10:00pm.

The event promises a relaxed,

family-friendly atmosphere with food available to purchase from the club. Organisers are encouraging everyone to come along, enjoy the music, and, if possible, make a donation on the day to help support the two chosen causes.

All proceeds raised will go to the Wales Air Ambulance—an essential service providing rapid medical care across Wales—and Megan’s Star, a local charity dedicated to supporting families facing life-threatening childhood illnesses.

The event is open to all, and organisers hope to see a strong turnout to support two vital causes through an evening of music, food and community spirit.

Death Stranding 2 on the beach

NEARLY SIx years after redefining the open-world genre with the original Death Stranding, Hideo Kojima returns with Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, a bold continuation of his uniquely philosophical and genre-blending universe. Slated for release on June 26, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5, the sequel builds on the original’s foundation of existential themes and deliverybased gameplay while evolving the formula in dramatic new ways.

Set eleven months after the formation of the United Cities of America, the game moves beyond the American wastelands of its predecessor into hauntingly beautiful, post-apocalyptic versions of Mexico and Australia. These environments are more treacherous than ever, reshaped by dynamic events like earthquakes and sandstorms, forcing players to constantly adapt their strategies. The story itself reflects Kojima’s interest in how humanity’s tools for connection can also be used for control and destruction, drawing inspiration from historical shifts like those symbolized by the rise of the East India Company.

Many familiar characters return, including Sam Porter Bridges (Norman Reedus), Fragile (Léa Seydoux), and the oncevillainous Higgs (Troy Baker). They are joined by new faces such as Tomorrow (Elle Fanning) and Rainy (Shioli Kutsuna), who bring with them fresh emotional weight and narrative complexity. As

with the original, the game’s plot dances between the metaphysical and the deeply personal, inviting players to once again question the boundaries of life, death, and human connection.

Gameplay has received a significant overhaul. While traversal and cargo delivery remain central to the experience, Death Stranding 2 introduces robust combat and stealth mechanics that evoke Kojima’s legendary Metal Gear series. Players can now approach encounters with much more flexibility—choosing to sneak past enemies, neutralize them, or avoid conflict altogether.

New tools, including a scout puppet that surveys ahead, expand strategic possibilities and make exploration more engaging. Natural hazards in the environment keep players on their toes, as paths and objectives shift unpredictably.

Player progression has been reimagined through the introduction of the Automated Porter Assistant System. This skill tree allows Sam to be customized in meaningful ways, improving his efficiency, stealth, or combat prowess based on player preference. These enhancements make each playthrough more personal and give a tangible sense of growth that extends beyond simple mission completion.

Visually, the game is a leap forward. Built on the Decima Engine, Death Stranding 2 showcases stunning environments and near-photorealistic character models, further blurring the line between video games and

HOROSCOPES

cinema. The soundtrack, a collaboration between returning composer Ludvig Forssell and artist Woodkid, plays a key role in setting the tone, with haunting melodies that respond to player movement and events in real time, enhancing immersion.

Critics who’ve experienced early builds of the game have offered high praise. Dan Ryckert of GameSpot shared his excitement after 30 hours of play, saying, “I can confidently say that it’s excellent, and I can’t wait to do it all again.” Eurogamer has called it “tighter, pacier, more dynamic, more gripping,” noting that it not only answers criticisms of the first game but also refines its most ambitious ideas.

Beyond the game itself, the Death Stranding universe is expanding. A live-action film is currently in development, underscoring Kojima’s intent to transform the franchise into a broader multimedia phenomenon. With this sequel, he’s not just making a game—he’s building a world with philosophical depth, cinematic scope, and mechanical innovation.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach isn’t just about delivering packages through a ruined world. It’s about delivering on a vision— one that challenges players to embrace uncertainty, explore meaning, and discover what binds us in a fractured age. Whether you’re a returning porter or a curious newcomer, this sequel promises an unforgettable journey through the unknown.

walk and thinking deep thoughts. You know that the time for action is due soon and that you’re sure to be ready.

CANCER

You can see beyond seeming coincidences and synchronicities straight to the true meaning of today’s events. Pay close attention to what your instincts are telling you, especially when they come from your dreams. New information is coming your way from all directions, but not from traditionally reliable sources. Open your mind even further and learn to follow your gut. There’s no way that you will regret it.

LEO Your flair for the dramatic should come in handy today when it comes to telling your story and getting people to see their common interests. You’ve got something special that makes your words just a bit more compelling than what people are used to hearing. In fact, you’re having so much fun that you want to find a way to keep it up all night long. Karaoke or a lively party might be perfect!

VIRGO

A surprising new wrinkle comes your way that might put you into something of a tailspin. Stop whirling and take a measured look at the lovely package that’s landed on your doorstep instead. Your energy is pushing you to stop fussing about the demise of your perfect plans and just focus on the amazing alternatives that are popping up all around you. Go ahead and say goodbye to the blues, because this is a brand-new day.

LIBRA

A surprising new opportunity pops up and lets you rethink your current surroundings. It may turn your schedule upside down, but if you embrace the change as a means to toss out old habits, you should make serious progress. It’s easy to just say you don’t have time to think things through, but why not take this chance to prove yourself? Accept freely and see where it takes you. It might evolve into something life affirming.

SCORPIO

Creativity is foremost in your heart and soul right now, so make sure you carve out some time to spend on your own. Give in to the impulse to doodle, take a long walk, indulge in some yoga, or just space out, whatever it takes to refresh your perspective and stimulate the right side of your brain! You’re quite good at making all the pieces come together in some new, cool way, so exercise that talent as much as you can.

SAGITTARIUS

Have some faith that larger forces are at work in your life. It might be hard for you to place your trust in the Universe when it feels like you need to go for something (or someone) more tangible, but be assured that it’s all coming together behind the scenes. The right answer should appear at just the right time. All you have to do is make sure you recognize it and act at the right time.

CAPRICORN

You may question how you can best help the people around you today, but don’t give in to despair. You always look for ways to benefit those less fortunate, whether you want to contribute to your community in a new way or just take your current involvement up a notch. Look into all of your options so that you can make a real difference.

AQUARIUS

Someone close poses an offbeat but fascinating question, and you want to follow that detour for as long as you can. It’s not really a problem as long as you make sure that all your tasks and duties for the day are cleared away first. If so, feel free to wander as far as your feet can take you. You should learn far more than you would have otherwise. After all, it’s

wITH EDDIE THE gAME gURU

Badger and the Great Grants Swindle

Part One - Ground Rules

BADGER said he would return to the subject of local government finance and how it affects the way Pembrokeshire County Council delivers services and raises money to pay for them.

In a recent column, Badger outlined how the value of the money our County Council receives from the Welsh Government has fallen sharply over the last seven or eight years. There is no denying that what Badger wrote was factual. He even used simple arithmetic to demonstrate his point.

The money the council receives each year comes from several sources. The Welsh government provides the largest share and allocates money to it as a share of business rates that the council collects on its behalf. The council raises money from Council Tax and obtains money through the charges it levies for services such as housing, parking, and leisure.

However, readers, it also gets a significant sum of money in the form of Welsh Government grants and external funding administered through the Westminster Government.

This week, Badger will discuss those grants.

Before he does so, however, it’s essential to outline some key facts that the hard of thinking and the cynical of disposition often fail to understand.

Number one, and Badger cannot emphasise this enough, the money allocated to the council from any source does not fund Withybush Hospital, the Ambulance Service, or GPs. Badger occasionally dips into social media and is repeatedly shocked by how confused people are about that.

The Welsh Government allocates money to the Welsh NHS. It is responsible and accountable for the money spent across the Welsh NHS. Badger knows this will surprise Henry Tufnell MP: the buck for Pembrokeshire’s primary and secondary healthcare crisis stops at the Welsh Government’s desk.

Second, unlike Health Boards, councils cannot run up massive deficits. Every year, councils are allocated a fixed sum according to a formula that

the Welsh Government knows is unfair and capricious. Councils cannot run at a loss.

Third, and as a consequence of the above, councils do not know what funding they will receive from one year to the next. The Welsh Government increases councils’ financial obligations annually, and you get the idea that no matter what budgets Welsh councils set, they’re all more or less guessing.

Fourth, if you want public services, you must pay for them. If you are currently a taxpayer, you pay for them indirectly through the share of tax revenue the Welsh Government gets from the UK Treasury, and the Council Tax you pay, if you pay it. Those public services include services provided by councils, such as education, housing, and social care.

Following the end of the Second World War, the UK chose not to establish a national reserve fund through taxation. That means if you are neither a current taxpayer nor a Council Taxpayer, your contribution to the provision of public services now is nil (apart from the relatively small amount distributed from indirect taxes and levies).

While Badger remembers, there is a fifth important point.

Pembrokeshire is not an exceptional Welsh local authority. It is a mediumsized council in the middle of the pack on almost all indicators. It outperforms other councils in some respects and is

outperformed in others.

Pembrokeshire County Council is neither uniquely crooked, corrupt, poorly governed, nor extravagant. Badger knows that some morons out there like to contend that’s the case. They’re all, without exception, wrong either through malice or ignorance.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s management structure is notably lean compared to other Welsh councils, and its staff complement is similarly compact.

Pembrokeshire County Council also does not set pay rates for its staff. Pay bands and pay structures are established nationally through negotiations between unions and central governments. The idea that all of Pembrokeshire’s Council staff and officers are grasping ne’er-dowells only in it for the money is ridiculous. If you think that, get bent!

Similarly, councillors don’t set their remuneration. That’s decided nationally, as well.

Badger has firm views on several aspects of local government funding. The distribution of the money raised through business rates should have no connection to the Welsh Government. Councils collect them, and they are “banked” by the Welsh treasury. Some of the money raised is then sent back to councils. That’s a bureaucratic waste of time and effort. Business rates are a mess of allowances and discounts. It beggars belief that, in twenty-five

years, Cardiff Bay has not come up with a coherent scheme for them based on reality instead of conjecture.

Councils also don’t know how much money they’ll receive from grant schemes and other sources. They must compete with other councils for a share of some of those funds. In relation to grant funding streams, the councils have no say in how the funds are spent, with some important provisos. Badger will come back to those next week. But this week, he wants to set the scene, so his readers are properly informed about why councils are constrained to spend money on projects that lack local buy-in or appear over-inflated white elephants.

To conclude this week’s instalment, Badger will say the following.

When the Welsh Government allocates money via grants, Councils have very little or no say in how they spend that money or when they must spend it. Suppose a council does not spend the grant allocated within the specified timeframe. In that case, it must repay the unspent portion (or the whole amount), and its prospects for future grant funding for any purpose are reduced.

The Welsh Government allocates grants to projects it wants councils to deliver. That is ludicrous. The Welsh Government effectively holds local authorities at ransom to deliver projects it thinks local councils should undertake, rather than properly funding councils to deliver the services they must provide or meet local priorities.

Badger’s example of the lunacy that leads to it does not come from Pembrokeshire. With Welsh Government funding, the Vale of Glamorgan Council built a new bus station in Barry. When Badger last visited Barry, the bus station looked lovely. Pristine. Its shiny condition might be because no buses leave there, stop there, or do anything other than drive past it on their way to the new housing estates to its west. But that was what the Welsh Government was prepared to fund.

Transport hubs, eh, readers?

Now you’ve the idea; the details will follow next week.

What good are words when the bombs keep falling?

ALRIGHT butt, it’s me again — Stephen Seagull, flapping in from the windy docks of Milford Haven, feathers ruffled and beak full of rage.

Now, I don’t usually flap too far from the harbour — there’s enough nonsense here in Pembrokeshire to keep a sharp-beaked bird like me squawking for years. Between council cock-ups, overpriced pasties, and humans thinking it’s OK to park on the slipway during a tide, I’m usually spoiled for choice. But this week, I’ve had to lift my wings and look east. Way east. Past the oil tankers, past the wind farms, past the grey line of the horizon.

Because while I was pecking through some half-eaten kebab behind the RNLI station, I overheard some humans muttering about “a turning point.” Apparently, the big birds in suits — you know, the ones with flags on their lapels and morals as bendy as a beach umbrella in a storm — have finally decided that what’s happening in Gaza might be a bit much.

A bit much, butt?

It’s been 19 months. That’s 19 months of bombing, starving, and collective punishment — and only now are they wheezing out phrases like “morally unjustifiable” and “wholly disproportionate.” Where were those words when hospitals were being turned into dust? When families were being wiped off the map faster than they could be named?

Let’s not kid ourselves. This isn’t a breakthrough. This is what we in the gull community call guilty flapping. It’s what you do when you’ve pecked your mate’s chips and want to act innocent while everyone’s watching.

It’s too little, too late — like trying to mop up an oil spill with a napkin from Greggs.

See, Israel’s leaders don’t care about “stern words.” They thrive off them. Condemnation only fuels their siege mentality. Every critique is twisted into proof that they’re isolated and must press on. And while they press on — blowing up schools, aid convoys, and children’s bedrooms — the West offers little more than a “deep concern” and the promise of another pointless meeting.

And here’s the rub: while the public are waking up, the institutions still sleep. International courts write reports that gather dust. Human rights groups sound the alarm, but the alarm’s wired to nothing. No circuit. No action. Just noise. Like a foghorn in the mist with no ships listening.

You want to know what this looks like from down on the quay? It looks like cowardice. It smells like complicity. You can squawk all you like about “shared values,” but if your mate’s starving children and you won’t take the chips from the guy bombing them, what exactly do you stand for?

Let’s get real. If the UK or the EU truly believed this was genocide — and let’s face it, it ticks every box — they’d slap sanctions on Israel’s leadership quicker than a seagull on a dropped pasty. They’ve done it to Russia. They’ve done it to Iran. But somehow, Israel — with its tanks rolling through refugee camps and ministers calling for forced removal — gets a free pass.

Oh, but we might review trade talks. We might pause a tech partnership. We might have a stern conversation

behind closed doors. Rubbish. I’ve seen more decisive action from a puffin in a headwind.

Look: if a Milford Haven doctor came home to find nine of her ten children incinerated by a drone strike, we’d shut down the town and march on Downing Street with flaming seaweed. But if it happens in Rafah? Suddenly it’s “complex.” Suddenly, everyone’s an expert in geopolitics and no one can quite decide if blowing up kids is wrong.

And what are we doing? Watching. Watching while a population is starved with bureaucratic precision. Gaza’s become a modern-day ghetto. Water cut off. Food trickling in like it’s wartime rationing. Children skeletal and silent. And still — still — governments do nothing that matters.

They’re worried about rifts, you see. Rifts with an ally. An ally that insults them, breaks international law, and uses British-made weapons to kill civilians — but still, we’re worried about upsetting the apple cart.

But the apples are already on fire.

I’m just a gull, but I’ve got enough sense to know that you can’t stop a juggernaut with a press release. If they want to be taken seriously, our leaders need to act like leaders — not spineless observers. Freeze arms deals. Impose travel bans. Recognise the International Criminal Court’s authority. And for heaven’s sake, call it what it is — genocide.

Because if they don’t? History won’t be kind. It’ll say we stood by. It’ll say we watched it happen, debated the wording, adjusted our trade spreadsheets — and let it carry on.

Meanwhile, back here in Milford, life goes on. The tides roll in. The trawlers creak in the harbour. And I watch the humans drink their tea and look away from the screen when the news comes on. Because maybe if you don’t see it, you’re not part of it.

But you are.

We all are.

Until next time, squawk loud, fly straight, and don’t pretend your silence is neutral.

Stephen Seagull Milford’s sharpest beak

Buying online: The dark underbelly in the Welsh puppy trade

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

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

adorable images.

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

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

The intertwining threads of imprudent purchasing decisions weave a tapestry of regret and unexpected tribulations for new owners: 49% are confronted with unanticipated financial burdens, 15% grapple with unforeseen behavioural issues

in their new pets, and 19% rue their purchasing method.

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

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

Amidst the chaos, the influence of social media endures, with 49% of puppy purchasing decisions in Wales

being influenced by these platforms. Astonishingly, 32% of buyers cite social media, influencers, or celebrities as their principal information source, prioritising them above professional veterinarians, dog welfare bodies, and breed experts.

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

With a united stand, expert organisations, breeders, and potential buyers can disrupt the nefarious practices of those who exploit innocent lives for profit and ensure that every puppy has a safe and loving home, beyond the transient allure of a social media post.

Visit the Kennel Club’s official website for supportive resources and advice on prudent puppy purchasing: thekennelclub.org.uk/ bepuppywise.

Record numbers take to the dance floor at school event

A RECORD number of young dancers took to the stage for the Sport Pembrokeshire Schools Dance event held at Tenby Leisure Centre on Tuesday (April 13).

More than 220 pupils from primary and secondary schools across the county took part in the vibrant showcase, performing a variety of solo and group routines across styles including street dance, lyrical and all-

style.

The event was co-ordinated by Finola Findlay of FF Dance and Kelly Williams of the Kelly Williams School of Dance, who both played a key role in organising and running the day.

Trophies—generously donated by Kelly Williams—and medals were awarded for outstanding performances, with all participants receiving a certificate to

celebrate their involvement.

Judging on the day were Finola, Kelly, Lucy and Kelci, with sponsorship support from Valero. The event also received a helping hand from Greenhill School’s Young Ambassador, Imogen Scourfield.

For more information about local dance schools and upcoming opportunities, contact Sport Pembrokeshire via Rominy. Colville@pembrokeshire.gov.uk.

Adnodd launches bold new education strategy at Urdd Eisteddfod

ADNODD, the national body supporting bilingual education resources in Wales, has unveiled a bold new strategy for 2025–2028, aimed at transforming the way educational materials are created, shared and used. The launch took place on Tuesday (May 28) at the Urdd Eisteddfod in Margam Park, where Wales’ First Minister trialled

one of the new resources in development — Aberwla, a virtual reality learning tool.

Adnodd’s new strategy places collaboration with Wales’ creative and technology sectors at its heart. A key part of the plan is the Innovation and Collaboration Fund, which opens in June. Educators, freelancers and organisations will be invited to bid for funding to develop innovative bilingual resources that support the Curriculum for Wales.

The Herald understands the strategy is built around three central themes — literacy, equity and anti-racism, and well-being — with a strong focus on tackling falling literacy levels, addressing inequalities, and supporting the mental health of learners.

ADNODD Chief Executive Emyr George said the strategy was informed by research with educators and parents across Wales.

“Teachers are having to adapt resources weekly to suit their pupils’ needs,” he said. “This shows just how urgently change is needed. We want to make sure every classroom has access to engaging, inclusive and adaptable resources that truly make a difference.”

The strategy also supports key Welsh Government commitments, including Cymraeg 2050, the Well-being of Future Generations Act, and the Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan.

Cabinet Secretary for Education Lynne Neagle MS added: “Adnodd’s strategy is a big step forward. It reflects learners’ lives, culture and language, and helps ensure our education system is equipped for a changing world.”

Applications to the Innovation and Collaboration Fund will open for four weeks in June. For details, visit: www. adnodd.gov.wales.

Home next to animal sanctuary not allowed to drop farming-only use rule

A CALL to allow a rural Pembrokeshire home next to an animal sanctuary for battery hens to be used without an agricultural condition has been refused by county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council through agent Colony Architects Ltd, Aaron Player sought permission for a Certificate of Lawful Development, allowing a removal of an agricultural occupancy condition at Brynhaul, near Tegryn, Llanfyrnach.

A supporting statement said the agricultural-only condition was placed on the property, when the house was built in the 1990s; the land formerly part of a larger 75-acre estate.

It added: “The property is owned by Mr and Mrs Player, who purchase the property on April 8, 2022, some three years ago,” adding: “Prior to this, the property was owned by the former owner for over 20 years, and operated the site as a livery and horse box customisation company call VJ Edwards.”

Part of a Certificate of Lawful Development application involves providing evidence that – in this case – a continual nonagricultural use has taken place for at least 10 years.

“The two previous owners (Players and Edwards), have used the property as a dwelling,

without any agricultural business for in excess of 20 years. The previous owners operated the company Edquine Ltd, from the property, between 2014 until 2020, when the company was closed.”

It says there is “robust evidence” that illustrates “on the balance of probability” that the property has been used as a residential dwelling for in excess

of 10 years”.

Last year, Aaron Player was granted retrospective permission to keep an animal sanctuary for disabled animals and ex-battery hens at the site running, works having started in 2023.

An officer report recommending refusal said the agricultural occupancy condition dates back to 1990.

It references claims the

site has been part used as an animal sanctuary, having gained permission last August, but says: “It is noted that this permission did not include the dwelling subject of this application.”

On previous the occupancy to the Players, the livery and horse box customisation company said to be there for some 20 years, it says: “Evidence provided to corroborate this consists only of a file copy of a ‘Certificate of Incorporation of a Private Limited Company’, with a company name of ‘Edquine Ltd’.

“There is no corresponding address with the Certificate to confirm the business was based at Brynhaul, what the business entailed, and who operated the business. In addition, the business name of Edquine Ltd also appears different to the business name of the horse box customisation business referred to previously in the statement as ‘VJ Edwards’. The certificate merely confirms that a business was incorporated on July 7, 2014 under the name ‘Edquine Ltd’.”

It concludes: “It is considered the statement and the certificate of incorporation do not on balance sufficiently demonstrate a continuous breach of the agricultural occupancy condition in excess of a 10-year period at Brynhaul as required.”

Over 100 gather to oppose GreenGen pylons in growing ‘David vs Goliath’ battle

MORE than 100 people, including landowners, residents, business owners and local politicians, gathered in Llandeilo this week to oppose controversial plans for a 65km network of overhead pylons through the Carmarthenshire countryside and the unspoilt Tywi valley.

The meeting, organised by the Llandeilo Anti-Pylons Group, heard impassioned objections to the GreenGen Cymru and Bute Energy proposals. Concerns raised included the potential impact on mental health, farming livelihoods, property values, and the region’s natural beauty— described by many as under threat from corporate overreach.

Among those attending were Senedd Members Adam Price and Cefin Campbell, both of whom expressed support for local residents opposing the scheme.

“This isn’t about clean energy— it’s about corporate convenience and profit,” said one attendee. “Communities are being steamrolled. There are alternatives, and we demand they be properly considered.”

Criticism was directed at what many described as a “top-down” consultation process, with developers accused of using the Electricity Act to threaten legal action against landowners who

refused survey access. Some called it “legal bullying.”

Daljit Singh, Chair of the Llandeilo Anti-Pylons Group, said: “There is growing concern in the Tywi Valley and among the community in Llandeilo about GreenGen and Bute’s plans for our countryside. Livelihoods in farming and tourism are being threatened by this assault on our landscapes.

These power lines should be undergrounded. The technology

exists, the companies exist, and that’s what they do in countries like the Netherlands and Denmark. GreenGen are putting profit before people.”

Havard Hughes, Deputy Chair of the group, added: “The Tywi Valley meets the criteria to be designated as a national landscape or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We must protect this historic valley from the Cambrian Mountains to Carmarthen Bay.

GreenGen and their backers in Westminster and Cardiff Bay may have thought this would go unchallenged— but the people of Carmarthenshire are ready to stand their ground. This campaign is growing, and we won’t be bullied into silence.”

The Llandeilo Anti-Pylons campaign is urging residents across Wales to stay informed and united in defending rural communities from industrialisation.

New Pembs and Carms farms join innovation network

A NUMBER of farms in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire have been selected to join the Our Farms network, a Farming Connect initiative aimed at boosting sustainability, efficiency, and profitability on Welsh farms.

Launched in 2015, the scheme connects farmers with sector-specific experts and facilitates on-farm trials to explore new technologies and more sustainable ways of working.

This year’s cohort includes twelve new farms from across the country, covering red meat, dairy, woodland, and horticulture sectors. Over the next twelve months, each farm will take part in projects tailored to their business, ranging from renewable energy studies to agroforestry and animal health trials.

Among the new entrants are several from west Wales. Pencedni Farm in Glandŵr, Pembrokeshire—run by Tom Clare and Jacqui Banks—will focus on agroforestry, integrating trees into their pasture system

in a bid to enhance soil health and biodiversity. Also from Pembrokeshire, Laura Simpson at Parc y Dderwen in Llangolman will explore the commercial potential of perennial horticultural crops, including trials on planting, weed and pest control, and crop overwintering techniques.

Andrew Rees of Moor Farm, Rhosson, and Jonathan Evans of Berry Hill, Newport—both in Pembrokeshire—join the network as part of its dairy cohort, alongside Michael James of Nant Yr Hebog in Carmarthenshire.

Further afield, Peter and Jacob Anthony from Cwmrisca Farm, Ton-du, Bridgend, aim to apply regenerative principles to their cattle and sheep enterprise. Meanwhile, Tudur Parry of Pengelli Isaf, Caernarfon, is looking into renewable electricity options to offset high energy costs, including a feasibility study on return on investment.

Sheep health will be the focus for Caryl Hughes at Tuhwntir Afon, Llanarmon, Dyffryn Ceiriog. She plans to test various footbath solutions to reduce lameness and monitor

OvER recent weeks, it seems UK trade agreements have been a bit like London buses - you wait for ages, and then three come along at the same time! Following the announcement of agreements with the USA and India earlier this month, it was the European Union’s turn last week, with the announcement of a UK-EU’s ‘reset’ agreement.

The importance of functioning, frictionless trade with the EU for Welsh agriculture cannot be understated.

The EU remains our largest export market, with 2023 seeing 75% of Wales’ £813 million food and drink exports sent to EU countries. Meanwhile, 2024 saw over 90% of Welsh lamb exports going to the EU.

the effects of mineral boluses on lamb weight gain.

Siwan Howatson, Head of Technical at Farming Connect, said: “We are thrilled to welcome these twelve innovative farms to the network. Each one represents a commitment to practical, forward-looking solutions for a more sustainable future in Welsh agriculture.”

Other new additions to the Our Farms network include:

Aled Wyn Evans, Fferm Penllyn, Tywyn, Meirionnydd (red meat)

Leonard Griffith Swain, Ty’n Yr Onnen, Waunfawr, Gwynedd (woodland)

Rhodri Jones, Pen y Parc, Llanerfyl, Montgomeryshire (dairy)

Jonathan Lewis, Carneddau, Builth Wells, Brecknock (red meat)

Each farm will share its findings with the wider industry, helping to inform best practices and inspire other producers to consider innovative and sustainable approaches to farming.

According to the Prime Minister this will make food and agricultural trade with the EU cheaper and easier and could lower food prices and increase choice on supermarket shelves.

Crucially, the ‘reset’ secures an agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) checks, which will streamline the trading of food between the two blocks, as well as easing admin and bureaucratic requirements and paperwork. The revised SPS agreement sees the UK agreeing to align to EU Laws on plant and animal health production, distribution and consumption, thus allowing the UK to sell products such as burgers and sausages in the EU again.

However, since the UK’s departure from the EU, increased red tape and a range of bureaucratic measures have become a growing obstacle. This was reflected in a recent study by the Food and Drink Federation, that found overall food export volumes from the UK to the EU fell by over a third between 2019 and 2024.

To this end, the Farmers’ Union of Wales has welcomed elements of the new agreement between the UK and EU that aim to make trade with EU countries easier and cheaper.

The agreement will also see some routine checks on animal and plant products removed completely, allowing goods to flow freely with the EU, and between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

However, whilst at face value our plant and animal health requirements align with EU standards, we must consider how this may place the UK in a challenging position in future as it no longer has the power, as a formal Member State, to influence European rules and will have to accept the EU’s Court of Justice’s jurisdiction on the way they are applied. On the flipside, the agreement could inadvertently strengthen the UK Internal Market by acting as an alignment tool that prevents divergence between rules across the devolved nations.

As was the case with the US-UK Trade ‘deal’ earlier this year, the devil will be in the details, and we will keep a close eye over the coming months as the negotiations continue.

Volkswagen amps up the style for its electric SUVs

New Black Edition versions of the volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 go on sale in the UK on Thursday 29 May. They are set to bring extra style to the electric SUv sector along with interior comfort and value for money.

The new Black Edition trims come with additional features compared with the existing Match versions of both models: the ID.4 Match Pro and Match Pro

4MOTION, and the ID.5 Match.

Extra style on the outside comes in the shape of 19-inch Onyx black alloy wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof and black exterior mirror housings; they also gain a high-gloss black roof trim and rear pillar, as well black rear nameplates.

Style is combined with comfort on the inside of the new Black Editions. They each come with Volkswagen’s Top-Sport ‘Plus’

Interior Pack, which includes sport seats in the front with integrated head restraints, poweradjustable lumbar support and massage function, all wrapped in sumptuous ArtVelours microfleece upholstery.

The combined cost of ordering all these additional features as options would normally add up to £4,625, but recommended retail prices for the new Black Edition trims are as little as £1,780 more

than the existing ID.4 and ID.5 Match variants.

On-the-road recommended retail prices including VAT are £46,180, £47,900 and £47,680 respectively for the ID.4 Black Edition, ID.4 Black Edition with 4MOTION and ID.5 Black Edition. They are all fitted with a 77 kWh battery that delivers a punchy 286 PS, and their WLTP ranges are 336, 322 and 341 miles respectively.

1.2

BMW Group and Solid Power are testing all-solid-state battery cells in a BMW i7

The BMW Group is bringing largeformat, pure ASSB cells from Solid Power to its test vehicle, a BMW i7, which is being operated in the Munich area. The potential benefits of ASSB technology: higher energy density in a very compact storage system compared to current technologies.

Since 2022, the BMW Group and Solid Power, Inc. (Nasdaq: SLDP) have intensified their activities for the development of all-solid-state battery (ASSB) technology through their technology transfer agreement.

The BMW Group and Solid Power believe in the potential of genuine ASSB technology. With a higher energy density compared to current battery technologies, ASSB batteries have the potential to achieve longer ranges in vehicles without the disadvantages with regard to the weight of the overall storage system.

“Solid Power is extremely proud that our partnership with BMW has resulted in the first demonstration of truly allsolid-state battery cells in a vehicle,”

said John Van Scoter, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solid Power.

“We believe in the promise of ASSB’s and continue to drive innovation of our sulfide electrolyte in support of that future for EV’s.”

Martin Schuster, Vice President Battery Cell and Cell Module at the BMW Group, says: “Our BMW i7 ASSB test vehicle on the road is a perfect example of the BMW Group’s technology-open mindset. We are continuously advancing the development of new battery cell technologies and are constantly expanding our know-how with valuable partners such as Solid Power. ”

The concept battery integrated in the BMW i7 test vehicle combines proven Gen5 construction principles (prismatic cells in modules) with new, innovative module concepts for integrating ASSB cells from Solid Power.

The management of cell expansion will be investigated here. In addition: How is the operating pressure controlled and how to adjust the temperature conditions.

The use of solid power cells with sulfide-based electrolytes and their complete integration into a battery pack will provide the BMW Group with further important findings in the test program over the coming months.

The innovative cells were developed and manufactured by Solid Power in collaboration with experts from the BMW Group. Further development steps are required to implement ASSB technology in a competitive overall storage system.

The BMW Group and Solid Power have been cooperating since 2016 through an extended “Joint Development Agreement”, which was supported by BMW Group’s investment in Solid Power in May 2021 as part of a financing round.

At the end of 2022, BMW and Solid Power agreed to further deepen their partnership. BMW will operate a solid cell prototype line at the CMCC (Cell Manufacturing Competence Center) in Parsdorf on the basis of a research and development license and using the experience and expertise of Solid

Power.

Since 2008, the BMW Group has been steadily expanding its expertise in the area of battery cell technology. Since 2019, this know-how has been bundled at the BMW Group’s Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) in Munich. The BCCC covers the entire value chain, from research and development to battery cell design and production capability.

In order to be able to implement innovations in battery cell technology quickly and efficiently, the BMW Group cooperates in a network of around 300 partners, including established companies, start-ups and universities.

The cooperation with Solid Power underlines the BMW Group’s battery strategy -to further develop innovative battery technologies on equal footing with leading partners in the industry. This strategically strong position in the value chain ensures the BMW Group access to all new and innovative battery cell research worldwide.

Subaru ranked as top automaker in Forbes Best Brands for Social Impact for the third consecutive year

SUBARU Corporation is pleased to announce that Subaru has been recognised for the third year in a row as one of the top three brands on Forbes’ 2025 Best Brands for Social Impact list, including the distinction of being the top-ranked brand in the automotive category.

Created in partnership with customer-insights company HundredX, the list highlights companies that consumers feel are the most dedicated to giving back to their communities. This recognition reflects Subaru and its retailers’ unwavering commitment to driving positive change.

The 2025 survey gathered more than 4.4 million ratings from 165,000 consumers, evaluating 3,900 unique brands based on factors such as values, trust, social stances, sustainability, and community support. Respondents nominated brands independently, ensuring that the ranking celebrates organisations that integrate social impact into their core business strategy and match up with their customers’ values to create meaningful change.

Forbes’ Best Brands for Social Impact survey was conducted between March 2024 and February 2025, with participants rating consumer brands on factors such as quality, value, and customer service.

For more information on Forbes’ Best Brands for Social Impact 2025, visit www.Forbes.com

Toward achieving our vision of “Delivering Happiness to All,” Subaru will fulfil our corporate social responsibility and provide “Enjoyment and Peace of Mind” to our customers and other stakeholders by promoting initiatives based on the SUBARU Global

Sustainability Policy. Subaru aims to be a truly global company with each and every employee driving sustainable growth, while continuing its efforts to contribute to the realisation of an enjoyable and sustainable society.

Drakeford plans business rates shake-up

MARK DRAKEFORD

unveiled plans to cut business rates for around 13,000 smaller “bricks and mortar” shops while raising the amount payable for higher value properties.

The First Minister-turnedfinance secretary launched a 12week consultation on proposals to adjust the multipliers for business rates, which are officially known as non-domestic rates.

In a written statement on May 20, Prof Drakeford said the Welsh Government intends to make use of new powers to bring in “differential multipliers” for the first time from April 2026.

He proposed introducing a lower multiplier – a key determinant of bills – for smallto medium-sized retail shops, kiosks and post offices, with a rateable value below £51,000.

“This proposal recognises the unique challenges faced by the ‘bricks and mortar’ retail sector, not least through their exposure to competition from online retailers,” he said.

“It would be intended to help rebalance the non-domestic rates system in favour of retail shops, to support the ongoing viability and sustainability of the sector.”

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

Prof Drakeford said the Welsh Government also plans to bring in a higher multiplier for the largest properties, with rateable values of more than £100,000.

He wrote: “This would help to offset the revenue … forgone through the proposed retail multiplier and ensure the standard multiplier (applicable to all properties which would not be subject to the retail or higher multiplier) could be set at the

lowest possible level.”

Prof Drakeford added: “The first use of any new powers will highlight practical considerations which inevitably arise in implementing innovative policy action.

“This relatively modest proposal will allow these matters to be identified and resolved, laying the ground for further reform in the future.”

The levels of multipliers will be determined as part of the Welsh Government’s 2026/27 budget, which will be set at the

end of 2025, taking the next rates revaluation into account.

According to the consultation, the increase in the higher multiplier would offset revenue lost through the retail multiplier – with no change in the overall amount raised.

Around 3,200 properties in Wales would pay rates based on the higher multiplier.

The higher multiplier would not apply to properties occupied by public sector bodies, such as hospitals, surgeries, schools, colleges, museums, universities, courts and police stations.

But the consultation document warned it would not be possible to exclude more generic property types, such as offices, occupied by public services.

A lower multiplier applies to properties in England with rateable values under £51,000, and further lower multipliers for retail, leisure and hospitality properties are on the horizon.

The UK Government will also introduce a higher multiplier for properties with rateable values of £500,000 and above in 2026/27.

Scotland sets three differential multipliers and in Northern Ireland, a central rate is supplemented by a rate set by each district council.

Familiar face returns to Pembroke Dock with new IT venture

A FAMILIAR face in South Pembrokeshire’s tech scene has returned to the high street, bringing with him a bold new IT venture and a fresh wave of optimism for local business.

WOW IT WORKS Ltd has opened its doors at 25 Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock, marking both the launch of a new business and the welcome return of a trusted IT professional. The new company is headed by the former owner of Cybercure IT Support, Jamie Alexander Barnikel, a well-known local name providing reliable tech services for many years.

After a brief hiatus from the trade, the founder has returned with renewed energy and a clear mission: to offer cuttingedge technology solutions while remaining rooted in the local community. The new business provides a full range of services, from device repairs and data recovery to managed IT services and bespoke consultancy.

Speaking to The Herald, the owner said: “Reopening on the high street was a personal decision as much as a business one. Pembrokeshire is where I built my reputation with

Cybercure, and it’s where I want to grow this next chapter. I believe in being part of the community, not just serving it from a distance.”

WOW IT WORKS arrives at a time when many Welsh high streets are struggling, with shop closures and the rise of online services making it harder for local businesses to thrive. But this new venture offers a different approach—merging technology with tradition and delivering

personal, face-to-face support in an increasingly digital world.

Local business owners have already praised the shop’s return. One Pembroke Dock trader described it as “a breath of fresh air,” adding: “Having someone we know and trust back in town for tech support is invaluable. It’s about more than fixing laptops— it’s about confidence.”

Looking ahead, WOW IT WORKS Ltd plans to expand its offerings to support community

groups, schools, and remote workers—helping ensure that local people can stay connected and competitive in a fast-moving digital economy.

WOW IT WORKS Ltd is now open at 25 Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock. Early signs suggest the community is already embracing this new chapter—proof that when experience and innovation come together locally, the result really is “wow, it works.”

The Imperial Hotel reopens after stunning refurbishment

THE IMPERIAL HOTEL in Tenby has reopened following a major refurbishment, restoring one of Wales’ best-loved coastal landmarks to its former splendour.

Now under the ownership of Crest Hotels Group, the Grade II-listed building has undergone a comprehensive transformation blending 19th-century heritage with contemporary luxury. With its position overlooking South Beach, the revamped hotel boasts redesigned rooms, a stylish new lounge, and the launch of a modern dining experience, Essence, offering sweeping views across Carmarthen Bay.

Crest Hotels acquired the property in 2024 and have since delivered what they describe as a “sensitive but ambitious” restoration. Every element

of the upgrade respects the historic character of the building, while bringing it in line with today’s expectations for comfort and quality.

Tracy Webb, General Manager at the Imperial Hotel, said: “Crest Hotels has given this hotel what it deserves. The refurbishment is beautiful and will have a hugely positive impact on Tenby. With the new spa and gym opening next year, it will bring something a bit different to the town.”

All guest rooms have been redecorated in sea-inspired tones of blue and green, and now feature highend fittings including Hansgrohe power showers, luxurious Sleepeezee beds, air conditioning, and high-speed internet. Substantial improvements have also been made to the bar, restaurant, and

the hotel’s iconic seafront façade.

The new restaurant, Essence, champions Welsh produce and caters for both residents and visitors. The menu includes everything from small plates to three-course meals, with local ales, craft beers, and bespoke cocktails. The hotel is also dog-friendly, providing canine guests with dog biscuits while their owners enjoy complimentary Welsh cakes.

Tracy added: “The aim is for the Imperial to be as busy in winter as it is in summer. Tenby is such a special place — it means holidays, happiness, sunshine. South Beach has always been my favourite since childhood, so to work here with that view every day is amazing.”

Jason Hiley, Managing Director of

Crest Hotels, said: “We want to reclaim the Imperial as the place to go in Tenby — a hotel that locals and visitors alike are proud of. It needed some tender loving care, and we’ve brought back the style and elegance it always deserved.”

Tenby remains one of Wales’ most popular holiday destinations, known for its colourful harbours, golden beaches, and rugged coastal walks. The Imperial Hotel offers a prime base for exploring the wider Pembrokeshire coast, including landmarks such as Carew Castle, Caldey Island, St David’s Cathedral, and the National Botanic Garden of Wales.

For more information or to book a stay, visit: www.imperialhoteltenby. co.uk

Jess’s Horse Haven: A new riding school with heart opens near Haverfordwest

A NEW equestrian centre in the Pembrokeshire village of Broadway is offering far more than just riding lessons. Jess’s Horse Haven, located at Mountain Farm, is already gaining a reputation for its personalised, therapeutic approach to working with children and young people who have additional learning and physical needs. The idea for the haven came from deeply personal roots. Founder Jess was inspired to launch the

project after her seven-year-old daughter, Charlotte, was diagnosed with autism.

“She is the whole reason I started it up,” said Jess. “You don’t realise what’s not out there for you until you are in that situation—whether it’s not being able to do crowds or learn the way everybody else does.”

With Charlotte attending a learning resource centre and Jess’s son Arthur being home-schooled due to a rare immune condition, the family’s experiences helped shape the ethos behind the centre. “With our family set up came the experience and passion to deliver this,” she said.

The haven is nestled in acres of countryside and offers one-to-one horse riding sessions, farmyard experiences, and tailored interactions. But it’s not just horses—Jess’s growing menagerie includes 20 horses, 14 dairy sheep, two Valais Blacknose sheep, around 30 chickens and ducks, three goats, and two rabbits. “They can learn things here that they don’t in school,” Jess explained, pointing to her own background as someone who thrived in hands-on, practical learning environments.

As well as riding, the centre provides animal-assisted therapy and non-riding experiences such as feeding lambs and caring for chickens and pigs— experiences that are often life-changing for young visitors.

One child, previously placed in an unsuitable school, flourished so much at Jess’s Horse Haven that their family was able to successfully advocate for a move to a learning resource centre. They even gave a presentation at their new school titled “My Farm.”

Another young visitor who had experienced significant trauma and was initially unable to leave their mother’s side now spends two hours a week at the farm—gaining confidence, independence, and joy. “They’ve made so much progress and now enjoy positive play, acting out the farm at home. It’s amazing,” said Jess.

The farm, which is rented to the family by local landlord Phil Rees, has been given “a new lease of life,” according to Jess, who praised Rees for his support in helping them build something that genuinely makes a difference.

Since opening in December 2024, the response has been overwhelming.

Jess, who is first aid trained and DBS checked, now operates with support staff and has even introduced weekend sessions and holiday events like Pirate Rides and Pony Treasure Hunts.

“We have everyone,” Jess added. “Everyone can come in and just be themselves.”

Jess’s Horse Haven is fully insured and licensed. All sessions are by appointment.

To learn more or to book a session, visit www.jesshorsehaven.co.uk, follow Jess’s Horse Haven on Facebook and Instagram, or call 07502 545126.

Nurses in Wales ‘falling behind’ in pay as union warns of burnout and inequality

NURSES in Wales are falling behind other public sector workers in pay, according to the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Wales, which has warned that staff are exhausted, underpaid and struggling with the cost of living.

The Welsh government has accepted a recommendation from the NHS Pay Review Body to award nurses a 3.6% pay rise for 2024/25. But this is lower than the deal for other NHS staff, including a 4% increase for doctors and dentists, and an average 5.4% rise for junior doctors.

RCN Wales said it would consult its members on the offer, asking whether they

have the strength to return to strike action.

Nicky Hughes, RCN Wales’ associate director said this week that the award offers little improvement, saying: “Nurses are once again being left behind, and it feels like the profession is being disrespected.”

She noted that with inflation currently at 3.5%, the proposed 3.6% pay rise does little more than cover basic price increases— while food and essential costs continue to rise faster. “We know nurses are relying on food banks,” she said. “They deserve more.”

There are currently over 2,000 nursing vacancies in Wales, with a workforce of around 40,000. The union says the pay deal

does not reflect the effort nurses have made in helping to reduce long NHS waiting times. Despite significant burnout across the profession, strike action remains a possibility. Ms Hughes said: “Nurses are tired, they’re burnt out, and although some members want to strike again, we’ll have to see what happens. Right now, many feel completely downtrodden.”

A Welsh government spokesperson said it values the contribution of nurses and is working to ensure the pay award and back pay are delivered promptly.

Hywel Dda welcomes new Independent Member for Community

HYWEL DDA UNIvERSITY HEALTH BOARD says it is delighted to share the appointment of Sarah Harraway as its new Independent Member for Community.

Sarah will attend her first Board meeting today, 29 May, marking the beginning of her tenure supporting the organisation’s mission to deliver compassionate, community-centred healthcare across west Wales.

Sarah succeeds Delyth Raynsford, who held the post for the maximum tenure of an independent board member.

Paying tribute, Dr Neil Wooding, Chair of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “We are deeply grateful to Delyth for her eight years of service. Her wisdom, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the communities of west Wales have left a lasting legacy. As we welcome Sarah, we also pause to value the strong foundation Delyth built.”

Sarah brings a wealth of experience from a diverse and dynamic career that spans marketing, photography, NHS transformation, and pharmaceutical industry. After starting her professional career in marketing with Thomson Directories, Sarah transitioned into the creative world of photography, working as a reportage-style wedding photographer.

Her most impactful contributions, however, have come through her work

in the NHS. Over a decade, Sarah held roles focused on system redesign and change management, including as a programme manager for one of NHS England’s pioneering Vanguard sites.

She also led outpatient and informatics change programmes in acute care and evaluated healthcare innovations at the Wessex Health Science Network. Most recently, she worked as a Senior

Insight Manager in the pharmaceutical sector, helping to bridge the gap between NHS needs and patient’s lifechanging treatments.

Now based in Ceredigion, Sarah has embraced coastal life and enjoys being an active member of her local community. She is also learning Welsh and remains deeply committed to community engagement.

Speaking about her appointment, Sarah said: “I’m very excited to take a break from early retirement to rejoin the NHS – especially so at a time when Hywel Dda is in such an exciting phase of change and development. I’m passionate about bringing communities into the healthcare ecosystem to ensure that services are truly patient-centric. I look forward to listening, learning, and contributing to the Board’s important work.”

Dr Neil Wooding, added: “We are thrilled to have Sarah join us as an Independent Member. Her unique blend of strategic insight, creative thinking, and deep commitment to community engagement will be invaluable as we continue to evolve our services. I’m very much looking forward to working with her and seeing the positive impact she will bring.”

Sarah’s appointment reflects the Board’s ongoing commitment to inclusive leadership and community representation as it shapes the future of healthcare in the region.

Family braves icy sea in memory of Rhys to raise funds

for Wish Fund

A PEMBROKESHIRE family has raised £750 for the Wish Fund after taking a bracing dip in the sea on New Year’s Day in memory of a beloved teenager who passed away last summer.

Rhys Calthorpe, who died peacefully aged 14 at his grandparents’ home on 17 July 2023 following a relapse of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, was remembered by his family during the annual New Year’s Day Swim at Saundersfoot beach.

Taking part in the swim were Rhys’

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

grandfather Mr Morris, grandmother Mrs Morris, mother Anne-Louise, and sister Faye, who wanted to honour his memory and raise funds for a cause close to their hearts.

“We wanted to do something in memory of our Rhys,” said Mr Morris.

“We also wanted to give back and say thank you for the amazing care Rhys received. We chose the Wish Fund as it does incredible work for families like

ours.

“Thank you to everyone who sponsored us. This was for Rhys William Calthorpe – son, brother, grandson.”

The Wish Fund is part of Hywel Dda Health Charities and supports children and young people with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions by creating precious and lasting memories for them and their families.

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Rhys’ family for

their fundraising efforts. Their donation will make a real difference to the children and families supported by our Paediatric Palliative Care service.

“The generosity of local communities helps us to provide care and support beyond what the NHS alone can offer across the Hywel Dda region, and we thank everyone who contributes.”

Rhys was supported throughout his illness by dedicated healthcare professionals including nurses from Cilgerran Ward and the Paediatric Oncology Outreach team.

Pictured above (L–R): Siena Mansaray, Paediatric Student Nurse; Laura Thomas, Clinical Nurse Specialist; Anne-Louise, Rhys’ Mum; Faye Calthorpe, Rhys’ sister; Mr and Mrs Morris, Rhys’ grandparents; Rowena Jones, Retired Paediatric Oncology Outreach Nurse Specialist; Rebecca McDonald, Lead Clinical Nurse Specialist for Paediatric Palliative Care; Kerri Rowe, Lead Paediatric Oncology Outreach Nurse Specialist; and Sally Preece, Sister on Cilgerran Ward/ COINS Nurse.

cSWelsh universities ‘not at immediate risk of collapse’

NO WELSH university is at immediate risk of collapsing under the weight of multimillion-pound deficits, according to the head of a public body set up to oversee post-16 education.

Simon Pirotte, chief executive of Medr, which was established in August, gave evidence to the Senedd education committee’s inquiry on issues facing higher education (HE).

Medr, which has a near-£1bn budget, is responsible for funding and regulating post-16 education and research – including colleges and sixth forms, unlike its predecessor Hefcw.

Mr Pirotte told the committee:

“I think it’s fair to say… there are massive challenges facing the whole of the tertiary sector at the moment.”

He added: “It’s an incredibly challenging time for institutions across the tertiary sector, every part… HE, local authority schools, FE [further education] colleges, apprenticeship providers, adult community providers – they’re all facing financial pressures.”

The former Bridgend College principal, who has been in education for around 40 years, emphasised that the “very challenging financial context” is not unique to Wales.

“Almost 100 institutions across the UK have announced restructuring measures,” he said. “So these are challenging times but it’s also essential that institutions cure their financial sustainability and continue to provide those best experiences for learners.

“And I think it’s fair to say that this requires some difficult decisions, including looking at prioritisation and efficiency measures… nobody wants to see job losses and I can say that as a former head of an FE college.

“I know how hard those decisions are and understand the tension between ensuring an institution’s financial sustainability but also considering the human impact.”

Appearing before the committee on May 21, Mr Pirotte told Senedd Members he faced similar pressures previously, with increasing costs not met by an increase in income.

“You have to identify additional sources of income and

ICNN Senedd reporter

if that isn’t possible, you have to consider scaling back or stopping certain activities,” he said. “And this is the situation facing most institutions in Wales and indeed across the UK.”

Mr Pirotte explained that Medr uses externally audited financial statements to assess the challenges facing universities.

“And we do not believe that any institution in Wales is at risk of failure in the immediate short term,” he said.

Pointing to data published by Medr last week, he said universities faced a £61m operating deficit in 2023/24 compared with a £21m surplus in 2022/23.

He told the committee: “This deficit of £61m does not account for the one-off restructuring costs. If you add that in you’re probably talking about a £77m deficit.”

Mr Pirotte said more than half of costs in the sector are associated with staffing.

“If we take a 2.5% annual pay settlement for HE, that estimates about £22m a year,” he said.

“The increase in the employer national insurance costs, that’s another estimated… £20m.

“Employer contributions for teachers’ pension schemes, which particularly affects four of

our institutions across Wales, is estimated to cost £6m a year.”

He also raised inflationary pressures, energy costs, increasing cybersecurity risks, a downturn in the number of international students and the loss of EU structural funds.

Mr Pirotte estimated increases in tuition fees to £9,535 a year will generate an additional income of about £36m “but this will not cover the costs”.

He warned that the UK Government’s contentious proposals on immigration have further fuelled concerns among providers around international recruitment.

On proposed cuts to courses, he stressed that universities are autonomous with “subject provision driven by markets, by demand – what students want to study”.

Mr Pirotte said the Tertiary Education Act 2022, which established Medr, specifically states that the body must not use its funding powers to require nor prohibit certain courses.

Natasha Asghar, the Tory shadow education secretary, said: “Medr seems to be the answer to everyone’s prayers but when it comes to the nitty gritties… in relation to feedback to ministers: how much of it is going to be taken on board and actually acted upon?”

Mr Pirotte replied: “We’re

certainly listened to – we have good, constructive dialogue.”

James Owen, Medr’s chief operating officer who is a former Welsh Government director, welcomed an additional £28.5m of in-year investment from ministers.

Plaid Cymru’s Cefin Campbell, a former lecturer, questioned how close some universities are to going into administration. “How close are we to some sort of meltdown?” he asked.

Mr Pirotte reiterated: “We’re not saying there’s an institution that is in danger of falling over in the short term but there are medium- to longer-term challenges….

“This is not easy – the reason that they’re taking the actions that they are doing now is to prevent that falling over further down the line.”

Pressed by Ms Ashgar about whether he can see the £77m deficit growing, he said: “Yes is the simple answer but what we don’t know yet is the final impact of the kind of measures that organisations are taking at the moment.

“The future is really challenging… that’s why institutions are addressing the issues now – because they have to, otherwise that situation would get worse.”

Chris Haines

‘No-show’ First Minister ‘undermined’ Senedd scrutiny

WALES’ First Minister Eluned Morgan undermined a Senedd inquiry on international relations by declining to give evidence in person, a committee warned.

Delyth Jewell, who chairs the culture and international relations committee, expressed concern about a continued lack of detailed evidence from the Welsh Government.

She said: “It is regrettable that the First Minister’s decision not to attend our committee in person to give oral evidence, coupled with this lack of essential detail in written evidence, has undermined our ability to carry out meaningful scrutiny.

“That is something I hope very much will change in the future.”

Baroness Morgan, whose responsibilities include international relations, instead provided the inquiry with written evidence “which fell below the standard we expect”.

Leading a debate on an annual report about international relations, Ms Jewell said the First Minister reneged on commitments made to the committee by her predecessors.

Baroness Morgan signalled a shift last year, publishing a “delivery plan” with 15 aims rather than following through on a refresh of the international strategy, which contains 270 actions.

“Important commitments made to our committee in terms of involvement have been rolled back,” said Ms Jewell, who criticised a mismatch between the delivery plan and strategy.

Warning of a lack of openness, the Plaid Cymru politician said: “This lack of coherence undermines, again, accountability and makes effective scrutiny all the more difficult.”

The Welsh Government accepted six of the committee’s eight recommendations. Ms Jewell pointed out that while ministers accepted the first recommendation – which called for regular progress updates – “the accompanying narrative contradicts that”.

Gareth Davies argued that international relations are reserved to Westminster.

The Conservative questioned the

return Welsh taxpayers receive for the Welsh Government’s 20 overseas offices which cost £4.6m in 2024.

Mr Davies told the Senedd: “I fear that that answer would be, ‘very little’. And that is why the Welsh Conservatives support shutting down overseas offices and redirecting the money back to frontline services, where it is needed most.

“This network is expensive and, in far too many cases, it appears to be duplicating work already being done by UK embassies and trade commissioners.”

But he backed the committee’s calls for St David’s Day to become a bank holiday – with discussions between Welsh and UK Labour ministers said to be ongoing.

Heledd Fychan was disappointed that Baroness Morgan was not in the

chamber to respond to the debate on May 21: “Not having the First Minister here today, given that we knew that this debate was happening, is very frustrating.”

Labour’s Alun Davies accused the Conservatives of a lack of understanding about the importance of the Welsh Government’s “essential” overseas office network. He said: “They’re seeking out new opportunities to bring work and jobs to this country, to increase the profile of Wales in these places. It’s the work that we need done if Wales is to be taken seriously as a global nation.”

His colleague Mick Antoniw, the Welsh Government’s former chief legal adviser, similarly criticised “contradictions and confusion” from the Conservative benches.

“International relations are not reserved,” he said. “International relations are about supporting Welsh interests in devolved areas.”

‘Crucial’

Responding for the Welsh Government, Jane Hutt told the chamber that the First Minister will meet the committee in June as part of a new inquiry into international relations.

The minister said: “Scrutiny is crucially important, and it will happen not just at that committee meeting but here today as we receive your report.

“But it will be an opportunity for the First Minister to discuss the work we are doing to enhance our global relationships and how we seek to achieve our goals.”

Ms Hutt described the international strategy, which was first published five years ago, as a bold statement of intent to raise Wales’ profile and grow the economy.

She agreed with Mr Antoniw: “We need a wider international debate and I am sure the First Minister will be reflecting on that.”

Chris Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

South Wales East MS Delyth Jewell

Conservative MS Gareth Davies

Labour MS Alun Davies

Jane Hutt, secretary for social justice, trefnydd and chief whip

W ITH ANDREW LYE

What have the 72 Liberal Democrat MP’s achieved at Westminster, in the last week? Well, they have secured a really important change in the law to protect survivors of domestic abuse.

Last week, the Government has agreed to act on two Liberal Democrat campaign priorities as part of their response to the David Gauke, Independent Sentencing Review.

In response to Liberal Democrat Justice Spokesperson Josh Babarinde’s campaign to formally recognise domestic abuse crimes in the law, the Government has announced it will create a specific, new categorisation that will enable judges to officially register offences as crimes of domestic abuse.

This would enable the Government to finally be able to exclude domestic abusers from its SDS40 early release scheme - which has so far allowed many domestic abusers to leave prison early in the absence of such a categorisation - putting victims at risk.

It will also mean the Government will now be able to track the number and reoffending rate of domestic abuse offenders. Josh Babarinde uncovered via a Written Parliamentary Question that currently, in the absence of a categorisation, the Government doesn’t know how many domestic abusers are in prison.

Sarah Olney’s longstanding campaign to enable victims of rape and sexual offences to request a transcript of sentencing remarks free of charge has also been included in the Government’s review.

Sarah’s campaign came after a constituent brought her attention to the shocking scandal, who had been charged thousands of pounds to obtain transcripts of their trial. Olney’s campaign called for the Government to introduce a pilot scheme to waive court transcript fees for victims of sexual violence.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Justice Spokesperson Josh Babarinde MP said:

“Having grown up in a home where domestic abuse was rife, it means so much to have secured these wins from the Government by working alongside them, fellow victims and survivors of abuse, and victim charities for many months.

“If implemented robustly, these proposals will be a game-changer for thousands of survivors across the country, granting them the protection they deserve.

“I thank Ministers for listening to our calls and for specifically recognising the Liberal Democrat campaigns that have called for these changes.

“However, the fight to protect survivors does not stop now. I will continue to work with the Government to ensure that these changes deliver safety and justice for victims and survivors.”

Also commenting, Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Olney MP said:

“I am thrilled that the Government has finally listened to my long-standing campaign, and are finally giving victims the support and protection they deserve.

“A transcript of the judge’s sentencing remarks is essential in providing clarity, and supporting victims. It is shocking that some victims have been cruelly charged thousands of pounds for a transcript about their own casewhich is already traumatising enough.

“I will continue to work with the Government and hold them accountable to make sure this law works to support victims and give them the justice they so deserve.”

While the Conservatives and Reform have been attacking the PM’s reset with the EU, it shows how out of touch they are with the public. They see the Conservatives inflicted an appalling Brexit deal on the people and our economy, yet they want to maintain the awful Brexit deal. Starmer may have tinkered at the edges, but the Liberal Democrats will continue to put the case for more improvements as the Tories fight to retain their discredited sacred cow - Brexit.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

‘This will not capture the headlines’: Senedd passes bill to ‘tidy up’ Welsh law

THE SENEDD signed off on plans to strengthen the foundations of the Welsh Parliament and its ability to make laws for the people of Wales.

Senedd Members voted unanimously, 51-0, in favour of the legislation bill which will form an important part of the infrastructure underpinning Welsh law.

Julie James, who is counsel general, the Welsh Government’s chief legal adviser, said: “This is not a bill that will capture the headlines; indeed, it is unlikely to receive any attention at all.”

Ms James acknowledged that the Legislation (Procedure, Publication and Repeals) (Wales) Bill, to give it its full title, may not be the talk of Swansea market.

Leading a debate ahead of the key vote on May 20, she said: “The technical, administrative nature of this bill may make it uninteresting to most but that does not mean it’s unimportant.”

For the first time, the bill will establish a King’s Printer for

Wales to oversee publication of legislation – an office initially established in England, Scotland and Ireland in the 1500s.

Ms James told the Senedd: “The bill brings about parity with Scotland and Northern Ireland in some respects, and in others it goes further. We alone will have accurately set out the process for published legislation electronically in the modern era.

“And for the first time a duty is imposed on the King’s Printer to publish legislation in up-to-date form. In other words, reflecting legislation in the form that it has been amended.”

Under the bill, “Welsh statutory instruments” – that is secondary legislation under an Act – would also be formally recognised for the first time.

Ms James explained the bill will streamline Senedd processes for scrutinising subordinate legislation and “tidy up” the statute book by removing outdated provisions.

The Labour politician stressed: “Legislation like this

forms part of an infrastructure that people only really notice when something goes wrong. People notice when it isn’t there.”

Paul Davies, for the Conservatives, described the bill as a “legislative tidyingup exercise”, emphasising the importance of improving the accessibility of Welsh law.

The Tory told the Senedd: “As the counsel general said, it might not sound like the most thrilling piece of legislation but it is a very important piece of legislation nonetheless.”

Plaid Cymru’s Adam Price said: “We, as a party, have been arguing for some time on the need to improve the quality, status and accessibility of Welsh law, and this bill represents a significant step forward in terms of those objectives.”

Ms James welcomed crossparty support and collaboration on the bill which, barring an unexpected legal challenge, will receive royal assent in the months ahead.

Conservative MS Paul Davies

Julie James MS, counsel general and minister for delivery

Independent Group calls for EGM over no confidence in Deputy Leader

HUW MURPHY, a member of the Independent Group on Pembrokeshire County Council, has confirmed to The Herald this week (May 25) that the Group has submitted a formal request to the Presiding Officer for an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of the Council. The purpose of the meeting is to debate a motion of No Confidence in Councillor Paul Miller, specifically regarding his roles as Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member.

The request, which received unanimous support during a recent meeting of the Independent Group, was formally submitted late on Friday afternoon (May 23) and acknowledged by the Council. It will be formally processed on Tuesday (May 27), the next working day. Under the Council’s constitution, the Presiding Officer has five working days to respond. The Independent Group has expressed its expectation that the request will be accepted and a date set without delay.

The call for an EGM stems from a number of concerns, which will be fully outlined during the meeting. However, central to the motion is Councillor Miller’s handling of matters related to the Welsh

in Education Strategic Plan (WESP) and his comments at a Cabinet meeting on April 28.

During that meeting, Councillor Miller remarked that, in his view, parents send their children to Ysgol Caer Elen for a “good education” rather than specifically for a Welshlanguage education. This statement, the Independent Group argues, conveys a perception of bias against Welsh-medium education.

Further controversy arose when Councillor Miller publicly criticised the Welsh Language Commissioner—an independent expert appointed by the First Minister—accusing her of making an “extraordinary political intervention” after she raised concerns about the legality and implications of his proposal to collect additional data from parents choosing Welsh-medium education.

The Commissioner’s concerns were grounded in the Welsh Government’s Schools Admission Code, which the Commissioner argued would be breached by the proposal.

Rather than addressing these concerns or withdrawing the amendment, Councillor Miller accused others of generating negative publicity

BLUE VIEW

With Paul Davies

Poor Ambulance Performance Must Be Prioritised

So what exactly is the Welsh Government doing?

and failed to accept any personal responsibility. At the Schools Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on May 14, the issue was further examined, yet Councillor Miller did not retract his original stance. Instead, he revised his amendment at Cabinet on May 21 to apply to both Welsh and English language education—a move viewed by the Independent Group as an attempt to save face without acknowledging fault.

Despite widespread concern from the Welsh Language Commissioner, senior council officers, the Welsh Government, and committee members, Councillor Miller has neither apologised nor shown any willingness to reflect on his actions. The Cabinet’s decision to adopt his revised amendment, with only six of nine members present at a remote meeting, was also a cause for concern.

The Independent Group believes that public trust in elected representatives depends on their ability to recognise mistakes, show humility, and respect expert advice. Councillor Miller’s refusal to do so—despite being an experienced politician— has led to this motion of No Confidence.

Ambulance response times continue to be a major problem in Pembrokeshire and it’s something that I’ve raised many times at the Senedd with Health Ministers over the years. Year after year we’re told that work is being done to review the ambulance service’s performance and that action is being taken to address some of the challenges that the service faces, such as handover delays at emergency departments. However, in recent weeks I’ve received correspondence from constituents telling me that people are waiting hours and hours for an ambulance in pain and discomfort and so it’s clear that whatever the Welsh Government is doing, it just isn’t working.

In one case, a 90-yearold woman waited over twelve hours for an ambulance after falling in her home. In another part of the county, a man waited hours for an ambulance after breaking his back in several places. These people deserve better and it’s not good enough for the Welsh Government to just say they’re working on it – they’ve had their hands on the levers of power for years.

I raised these two specific issues at the Senedd and asked for an urgent statement to understand exactly what is being done to address ambulance response delays. No statement has been forthcoming yet –and I find it unbelievable that a life and death issue like this is not higher up on the Welsh Government’s agenda. Dr Ian RobertsonSteele, a former director of Withybush Hospital has rightly said – and I quote “that the government has failed to deliver, failed to organise, and the NHS is frankly on the point of failure. That is bad for patients, bad for staff, and bad for the country.” He is of course, absolutely right.

Well, the Welsh Government is creating two new priority 999 categories: a purple category, which will cover cardiac and respiratory arrest; and a red emergency category, which includes responses to major trauma, major bleeding and cases where a person’s condition could deteriorate swiftly without rapid intervention. As I understand it, the average response time to a purple and red call is between six to eight minutes – so no real difference from what we have now, just they’ll be labelled slightly differently. There will also be a review into how education and CPR training resources can be provided in order to increase public awareness of life-saving techniques, improve accessibility to defibrillators and to encourage more community involvement. That’s all well and good – but this is a whole system problem. There is a massive problem with delayed discharges from hospital as many patients are stuck in hospital waiting for social care packages to go home. There’s also a problem with capacity, as more beds are needed. Until we tackle these two issues – and train more doctors and nurses, then we’ll continue to tread water and make no real progress.

Poor ambulance performance must be prioritised – but until the Welsh Government recognise and see the bigger picture, patients will continue to face extensive waits for ambulance services.

Under fire: Cllr Paul Miller (Pic: Herald file) Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO: THE EDITOR, 11 HAMILTON TERRACE, MILFORD HAVEN, PEMBROkESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL US AT: editor@herald.email

LETTERS & NOTI c ES

PIc

A BASIC RIGHT FOR EVERY CHILD

DEAR SIR,

Play has long been a cherished part of childhood in the UK, with recent research showing that 68% of adults in Wales consider playing with friends among their fondest childhood memories. Yet, for millions of children across the globe, this joy remains out of reach due to extreme

challenges such as conflict, poverty, child labour, and early marriage.

This is where Right To Play steps in. Every year, we transform the lives of over 4.7 million children, using the power of play to help them stay in school, heal from trauma, and develop critical life skills. Play is not just a pastime—it is vital to children’s learning, development, and well-being.

On 11 June, we will be marking International Day of Play, an annual UN-

rooted in nationalism, devoid of intellectual or ethical foundation. Many women of the era deferred to their husbands’ political choices, compounding the trend. At its core, the reactionary mind of the far Right is driven not by reason, but by emotions— particularly hatred of race and class—as a means of asserting superiority.

In the post-war decades, a dishonest, oligarch-owned press has revived this personality politics, blending it with the allure of show business. Leaders such as Thatcher, Johnson, Farage, and Trump are idolised not for their moral courage, but for their perceived ‘strength’, often defined by their willingness to stoke division. Social media has only amplified this trend. The rise of Reform UK echoes these patterns—glorifying the ‘wheeler-dealer’ archetype: cunning, ruthless, and largely unbound by principle. Many supporters are drawn to these figures because they symbolise success in a system where wealth is the only metric, even if they themselves have little of it.

recognised day that highlights the importance of play and advocates for its recognition as a fundamental right for every child.

We encourage your readers to learn more about the transformative benefits of play and discover how they can support our work by visiting righttoplay.org.uk.

Gillian McMahon

Executive Director, Right To Play UK

LET’S TEACH CHILDREN COMPASSION

DEAR SIR,

In the 1930s, adults across many nations were drawn to Fascism through the ‘masculine’ spectacle of military parades and the cult of strongman leaders—Hitler, Mussolini, Franco. Their appeal lay in an extreme and emotional form of personality politics

This, once again, reflects a deeper philosophical truth about the human condition. As thinkers like Isaac Newton and others in philosophy, physics, and metaphysics have shown, there is a profound design to the universe—one that suggests human males, in particular, require the grounding influence of female insight to locate truth and ethical understanding. Sadly, in our time, many women adopt the aggressive values of their male counterparts in the hope of acceptance, while education fails to teach young people these deeper ethical truths. Teenagers today often remain unaware that metaphysics— like science—rests on abstract reasoning and mathematics, and reveals enduring truths about existence.

The truths of the universe are there to be discovered. But they cannot be found through capitalist economics alone. If we teach children compassion instead of hatred, and open their minds to reason, they may yet discover their true potential.

C N Westerman

TURE OF THE wEEK!

Barafundle Bay on a warm day By Jason davies

Death Notices

THELMA BLUCk

Passed peacefully away on Wednesday 14th May at the Highgrove Residential Home.

A wonderful wife to Peter, mother to Simon and Chris and grandmother to Nick, Louise, Calum and Holly and friend to so many who will be missed so much.

The funeral service will be held at Nolton Haven United Reformed Church on Monday 9th June at 11am.

The family wish to thank the staff for all their wonderful care they gave to Thelma during her short stay in Highgrove.

Family flowers only, but if desired, donations to Welsh Air Ambulance either via their website or through W.G. Bernard Mathias & Daughter Funeral Directors, 64 New Street, St. Davids, SA62 6SU Tel No. 01437 720537

RALPH TIDCOMBE

The death occurred peacefully at home on Friday 4th April 2025 of Mr. Ralph Tidcome, affectionately known as ‘Taff’ aged 85 years of Clarence Street, Pembroke Dock.

Beloved Husband of June.

The funeral service took place on Monday 12th May 2025 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 10:45am.

There were family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for The Paul Sartori Foundation c/o E.C. Thomas &

Son Funeral Directors, 21, Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS & Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH who dealt with funeral arrangements.

MAIRWEN BOWEN

Peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Phoebe Mairwen Bowen, Greystone, Newport aged 89 years.

Beloved wife of the late John, much loved mother of Glenys and the late Martin, special mother-in-law of Dai, proud grandmother of Hefin, Anona, Nerys, Nick and Gwyn, cherished greatgrandmother of Carys, Ellie, Loti and Erin, and a dear sister of the late Brynmor

and John.

Public funeral service on Wednesday, June 4 at Caersalem Dyfed Chapel at 11.00am.

Family flowers only, but donations, if desired, towards ‘Wales Air Ambulance’ c/o Colin Phillips and Daughters Funeral Directors, 4 Morgan Street, Cardigan, SA43 1DF. Tel: 01239 621192.

JOHN DUGMORE

Of Incline Way, Saundersfoot. Passed away peacefully on Friday, 16th May at Withybush Hospital, aged 90.

John was predeceased by his wife Gloria and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

The funeral service takes place on Thursday, 12th June at 1.00pm at St. Issells Church, Saundersfoot and will be followed by interment.

There will be family flowers only with donations if desired made payable to Dementia UK c/o Funeral Directors Messrs W & M J Rossiter & Sons Ltd, The Old Rectory, The Norton, Tenby, SA70 8AB Tel: 01834 843160 or Landsker House, 21 Station Road, Narberth, SA67 7DR Tel: 01834 861300 or via: www. rossitersfunerals.co.uk

MICHAEL BERNARD MCNALLY

The death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Tuesday 13th May of Mr. Michael McNally of Bentlass Road, Hundleton, Pembroke.

The devoted and much loved husband of Virginia, he was 81 and will be greatly missed by all his family and very many friends.

The funeral will take place on Thursday 5th June with a Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Pembroke Dock at 11.30.am followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn Crematorium at 1.45.pm.

Family flowers only please.

All further enquiries may be made to John Roberts & Son, Funeral Directors, 51, Bush Street, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6AN, Tel. 01646 683115, who are carrying out the arrangements.

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Carmarthen co-driver dies in Jim Clark rally crash

A CO-DRIvER from Carmarthen has tragically died following a crash during the Jim Clark rally in Scotland.

Dai Roberts, aged 39, was pronounced dead at the scene on Saturday (May 24) after the vehicle he was in left the road during a stage near Duns in the Scottish Borders.

The driver, 27-year-old James Williams, was seriously injured and taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. His injuries are described as serious but not lifethreatening.

Roberts was an experienced figure in the world of rallying. In 2014, he survived a crash during the Ulster Rally in Belfast which claimed the life of his then-driver,

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Timothy Cathcart, who was 20. Two years earlier, his younger brother Gareth, also a rally codriver, was killed in an accident during a race in Palermo, Italy. He was 24.

This weekend’s Jim Clark rally and Sunday’s Reivers rally were both cancelled following the incident. The event, named after the late Formula One world champion Jim Clark, is a popular annual fixture that draws competitors from across the UK. Around 260 participants were due to take part over the weekend.

A statement from the event

organisers, the Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club, confirmed the fatal incident and said support was being provided to those affected.

James Williams Rallying also issued a heartfelt tribute: “It is with a heavy heart we have to share this sad news. The motorsport community is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our beloved Dai Roberts. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Roberts family at this difficult time.”

Superintendent Vincent Fisher of Police Scotland said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died and inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”

Motorsport UK, the governing

body for the sport, said it had launched a full investigation and would work closely with organisers and relevant authorities.

The Jim Clark rally has a long history but has also been marred by tragedy in the past. In 2014, three spectators were killed and six others injured when two cars veered off the course. The event was suspended and only resumed five years later, in 2019, following significant safety reforms.

The rally forms part of several championships, including the Probite British Rally Championship, the Asset Alliance Group Scottish Rally Championship, and the Protyre National Asphalt Championship.

Haverfordwest County academy teams set for Norwich City trip

PLAYERS from Haverfordwest County AFC’s male and female academy teams will head to East Anglia this weekend for a three-day residential tour hosted by Norwich City FC.

The visit will see the young Bluebirds based at The Nest, Norwich City’s state-of-the-art development complex, where they will take part in a series of competitive fixtures against the Canaries’ Development and Elite Development squads.

As part of the tour, the players will also receive coaching from Norwich City’s staff, take part in team-building activities, and enjoy leisure time at the onsite recreational centre, which

includes a range of entertainment options.

The trip will conclude with a guided visit to Carrow Road, home of the Sky Bet Championship club.

Academy tour organiser Mikey Loveridge said: “It’s fantastic to be able to offer our academy players such a brilliant opportunity. This trip will create lasting memories and help strengthen the strong team spirit we’ve built at Haverfordwest County.”

The club sees the tour as a key part of its continued commitment to youth development and providing top-level experiences for its emerging talent.

Bluebirds confirm six-match pre-season schedule

HAvERFORDWEST COUNTY AFC

have announced their pre-season fixture list ahead of the 2025–26 season — a summer schedule that includes six matches as the Bluebirds prepare for another shot at European competition.

The club will find out who they face in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Europa Conference League on Tuesday 17 June, with the draw taking place at UEFA headquarters in Geneva.

Preparations on the pitch get underway just a few days earlier, with the first friendly scheduled for Saturday 14 June, when Baglan Dragons visit the Ogi Bridge Meadow.

A week later, on Saturday 21 June, County will host Penrhyncoch of the JD Cymru North, followed by a midweek clash against Ynysygerwn on Tuesday 24 June — both games also to be played at the Meadow.

One of the standout fixtures of the summer sees the squad travel to Belfast for a high-profile meeting with Linfield on Saturday 28 June. The Northern Irish champions are expected to provide a stern test at Windsor Park.

County return to Welsh soil for a trip to face Carmarthen Town at the LHP Stadium on Tuesday 1 July, before rounding off their pre-season programme at home against Trefelin on Saturday 5 July.

Kick-off times for all fixtures will be confirmed by the club later this week.

Joe Ledley opens new 3G pitch at Ysgol Greenhill in Tenby

A NEW state-of-the-art 3G sports pitch has officially opened at Ysgol Greenhill in Tenby, following a £700,000 investment to transform the school’s existing facilities.

The upgraded full-size pitch was unveiled on Friday (May 24) with the help of former Wales international footballer Joe Ledley, who joined pupils and local officials to mark the occasion.

Funded through a collaboration between the Cymru Football Foundation (CFF), Sport Wales, and Pembrokeshire County Council, the project saw nearly £400,000 invested by the CFF as part of its Fit-For-Future programme, which is backed by the UK Government’s MultiSport Grassroots Facility initiative.

The new 3G pitch replaces the school’s former 2G surface and includes an extended playing area, new fencing, and energy-efficient floodlighting. It will be used by Greenhill students during school hours and will also be open for use by local football and rugby clubs in the evenings and on weekends.

Councillor Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Resident Services at Pembrokeshire County Council, praised the facility as a long-term asset for the town.

“This investment is not just about new

turf – it’s about creating opportunities for young people and residents of all ages to get involved in football and rugby, whether through competitive fixtures or recreational play,” he said.

“The facility will be managed by Pembrokeshire Leisure to ensure it remains a vital community hub for years to come. It’s a brilliant example

of what can be achieved through strong partnership working and a shared vision for grassroots sport.”

Aled Lewis, Director of the Cymru Football Foundation, added: “A new facility in the heart of Tenby will enable more players to play, improve the experiences of current players, and act as a hub for sport in the local community.”

The Ysgol Greenhill development brings the total number of full-size 3G pitches supported by the Foundation across Wales to 16, with further upgrades planned in the months ahead.

Since its formation in 2022, the Cymru Football Foundation has invested more than £17 million in modernising football facilities throughout the country.

Pitch opening: Greenhill School in Tenby (Pic by Ashley Crowden/FAW)

Parc y Scarlets to host Haverfordwest’s European adventure

PARC Y SCARLETS will once again welcome European football this summer, as Haverfordwest County AFC prepare for their latest UEFA Conference League campaign.

The Llanelli-based stadium has been confirmed as the home venue for the Bluebirds’ first qualifying round fixtures in the European competition. It marks another major football event for the ground, which has previously hosted Wales men’s and women’s internationals, most recently in 2023 when Cymru’s women faced Ukraine and Kosovo in UEFA Euro 2025 qualifiers.

Parc y Scarlets, the home of the Scarlets rugby team, was also the base for Llanelli AFC’s European matches in 2009 and has regularly hosted domestic finals and Swansea City reserve games.

Haverfordwest County secured European football for the second time in three seasons after their 3-1 victory

over Caernarfon Town at the Ogi Bridge Meadow last week. They now enter the UEFA Conference League at the first qualifying round stage.

The Bluebirds will find out their opponents when the draw is made at UEFA headquarters in Geneva on Tuesday, June 17. The two-legged tie is scheduled to take place on Thursday, July 10, and Thursday, July 17.

Scarlets Managing Director Jon Daniels said: “We are immensely proud of the facilities we have here at Parc y Scarlets and are thrilled to be hosting Tony Pennock and his Haverfordwest team for such an important fixture.

“We have hosted high-profile international, European and domestic matches since the Parc was opened in 2008 and the team here are looking forward to being part of Haverfordwest’s European adventure.”

Ticketing details will be announced in due course.

Cycling fever rolls on after Tour

FRESH from the success of the JCP Solicitors Tour of Pembrokeshire last weekend, Wales is gearing up for even more two-wheeled action — this time in Ceredigion, where the British and Welsh Cycling Championships are set to take place next month.

On Saturday (May 24), more than 1,600 riders from across Wales and beyond took part in the Tour of Pembrokeshire, despite wet and misty conditions. Setting off from Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi in St David’s, cyclists tackled some of the most scenic — and challenging — roads the county has to offer.

The popular charity sportive featured three routes to suit all abilities: the gruelling Epic 105-mile ride with over 10,000 feet of climbing; the Classic 60mile route; and a Community 25-mile route for newer cyclists. Riders navigated the Preseli Hills, coastal roads, and narrow country lanes in an event that has become one of the highlights of the Welsh sporting calendar.

Now, the spotlight shifts north as the British and Welsh Cycling Championships come to Ceredigion from 26 to 29 June.

To mark the one-month countdown, Ceredigion’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Environmental Services, Councillor Shelley Childs, has been out promoting the region’s cycling appeal — and encouraging others to enjoy the stunning local routes.

A lifelong cyclist and former competitor with Ystwyth Cycling Club, Cllr Childs holds a first category racing licence and has represented Great Britain in the World and European Duathlon Championships, finishing fifth in his age group. He credits Ceredigion’s landscape with providing the perfect training ground.

of Pembrokeshire success

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

“Ceredigion has so many fantastic cycling opportunities,” he said. “No wonder it was chosen as the home of the British Cycling Championships this June. The views are magnificent and

the terrain is both beautiful and testing. It’s no surprise this county has produced elite riders like Josh Tarling, Stevie Williams, and Gruff Lewis.”

Cllr Childs, who also co-organises AberCycleFest and is a life member of his local cycling club, said he’s excited to welcome cyclists and supporters to Aberaeron and Aberystwyth for the championships.

“There’ll be something for everyone — whether you’re a racing fan, a leisure rider, or just looking for a great day out,” he added.

For route maps and full event information, visit: Cycling Championships – Ceredigion County Council

Carew and Cresselly remain unbeaten as title races heat up across all divisions

WEEK 5 of the Thomas Carroll Pembroke County Cricket League delivered thrilling encounters, dominant displays, and standout individual performances across all six divisions.

Carew and Cresselly continued their unbeaten runs at the top of Division 1 with convincing wins, while Saundersfoot II, Fishguard, and Narberth also held firm in their respective title chases. There were dramatic finishes—including a thrilling tie between Haverfordwest II and Laugharne—and explosive bowling spells from the likes of Tom Arthur, Sam Franklin, and Steve Alford. With the table shaping up and summer heating up, the league promises an exciting run of fixtures ahead.

PEMBROKESHIRE CRICKET RESULTS BY DIvISION

DIvISION 1 – CAREW, CRESSELLY CONTINUE UNBEATEN CHARGE

It was a dominant weekend at the top of Division 1 with Carew and Cresselly both maintaining perfect records to stay first and second respectively. Carew chased down Haverfordwest’s 156 with relative ease, thanks to Tim Hicks (53) and Shaun Whitfield (47). Meanwhile, Tom Arthur’s stunning 6-25 led Cresselly to an 8-wicket demolition of Whitland, who were dismissed for just 68. Elsewhere, Saundersfoot’s Sam

Franklin ripped through Llangwm with a brilliant 5-9, helping secure a 10-wicket win. Neyland’s solid batting led by Paul Murray (97) kept them third with victory over Lawrenny, and Herbrandston’s openers cruised to a 10-wicket win over Burton after bowling them out for 94.

DIvISION 2 – NARBERTH EDGE THRILLER

TO TOP TABLE

Narberth held their nerve in a nail-biter against Pembroke, winning by just 3 runs. Loui Davies’ 78 and a strong bowling display sealed the win, putting them clear at the top. St Ishmaels were clinical in a 10-wicket win over Llechryd, with Bradshaw (71no) and Llewellyn (69no) sharing an unbeaten century stand.

Johnston bounced back with a 9-wicket win over Burton II, thanks to Gary James’ 4-4, while Hook and Cresselly II also claimed convincing wins.

DIvISION 3 – FISHGUARD FLYING HIGH

Fishguard remain unbeaten after bowling out Neyland II for just 32 and cruising to a 10-wicket win. Pembroke Dock continued their strong form with a 9-wicket win over Kilgetty, led by Jake Davies (63no) and George Smith (60no).

The game of the week came at Haverfordwest II, where a thrilling tie was played out against Laugharne, both sides making 164. Shaun Lynch

was the standout for Laugharne with 45 runs and 4-23.

DIvISION

4 – SAUNDERSFOOT II UNSTOPPABLE

Saundersfoot II made it five wins from five with a 6-wicket win over St Ishmaels II, bolstered by another strong bowling display. Pembroke II chased down Llanrhian II’s 56 without loss, and Crymych also stayed in the title hunt with a 6-wicket win over Lawrenny II.

Haverfordwest III’s Safi (41) and Stobbs (37) anchored an 8-wicket win against Llangwm II, and Carew III comfortably dispatched Narberth II.

DIvISION 5 – DOCK EDGE AHEAD IN TIGHT TITLE RACE

In Division 5, Pembroke Dock II moved top after a resounding 8-wicket win over Neyland III, with Steve Alford (4-16 & 29) playing a starring role. Herbrandston II and Llechryd II also won to remain close in the three-way title race.

DIvISION 6 –HAvERFORDWEST/CRESSELLY TOP AFTER DEMOLITION

Haverfordwest/Cresselly bowled out Kilgetty II for 41 and knocked off the target in just 42 balls to take command of Division 6. Llechryd III held on in a tight 11-run win over Lamphey II, while Pembroke III edged a 2-wicket win over Whitland III.

Thomas carroll Pembrokeshire League Table

RESULTS: 24/05/2025

Burton (94) lost to Herbrandston (98-0) by 10 wkts

Carew (157-4) beat Haverfordwest (156) by 6 wkts

Lawrenny (183-9) lost to Neyland (186-5) by 5 wkts

Llangwm (40) lost to Saundersfoot (41-0) by 10 wkts

Whitland (68) lost to Cresselly (70-2) by 8 wkts

Cresselly II (261-6) beat Carew II (257-4) by 4 wkts

Johnston (55-1) beat Burton II (51) by 9 wkts

Llanrhian (90-8) lost to Hook (93-1) by 9 wkts

Narberth (180-9) beat Pembroke (177) by 3 runs

St Ishmaels (150-0) beat Llechryd (146-7) by 10 wkts

Haverfordwest II (114) tied with Laugharne (164-8) Hook II (112) lost to Lamphey (114-0) by 10 wkts

Hundleton (192-3) beat Stackpole (191-7) by 7 wkts

Kilgetty (141) lost to Pembroke Dock (142-1) by 9 wkts

Neyland II (32) lost to Fishguard (36-0) by 10 wkts

Carew III (116) beat Narberth II (55) by 51 runs

Crymych (138-4) beat Lawrenny II (137-5) by 6 wkts

Haverfordwest III (119-2) beat Llangwm II (117) by 8 wkts

Pembroke II (59-0) beat Llanrhian II (56) by 10 wkts

Saundersfoot II (87-4) beat St Ishmaels II (81) by 6 wkts

Herbrandston II (187-7) beat Cresselly III (138) by 49 runs

Llechryd II (105-2) beat Haverfordwest IV (103-9) by 8 wkts

Pembroke Dock II (108-2) beat Neyland III (105) by 8 wkts

H’west-Cresselly (42-0) beat Kilgetty II (41) by 10 wkts

Lamphey II (140) lost to Llechryd III (151-9) by 11 runs

Pembroke III (152-8) beat Whitland III (151-7) by 2 wkts

FIXTURES: 31/05/2025

Burton v Carew

Cresselly v Llangwm

Haverfordwest v Lawrenny

Herbrandston v Whitland

Neyland v Saundersfoot

Carew II v Burton II

Hook v St Ishmaels

Llanrhia v Narberth

Llechryd v Johnston

Pembroke v Cresselly II

Fishguard v Kilgetty

Hundleton v Neyland II

Lamphey v Haverfordwest II

Pembroke Dock v Laugharne

Stackpole v Hook II

Lawrenny II v Pembroke II

Llangwm II v Carew III

Narberth II v Llanrhian II

Saundersfoot II v Haverfordwest III

St Ishmaels II v Crymych

Cresselly III v Pembroke Dock II

Haverfordwest IV v Hundleton II

Neyland III v Llechryd II

Whitland II v Herbrandston II

Kilgetty II v Pembroke III

Whitland III v Lamphey III

Cycling fever rolls on after Tour of Pembs success •