The Pembrokeshire Herald 03/10/2025

Haverfordwest man jailed for sadistic knife ordeal

A HAVERFORDWEST man has been jailed after subjecting his partner to a terrifying knife attack during which he claimed he had been paid to rape and kill her.

Mark Webber, 45, repeatedly threatened his victim with a kitchen knife, cutting her from her ear to her throat, and forcing her to believe she was about to die. Swansea Crown Court heard he told her it was her choice whether she suffered “an easy death or a hard death”.

CROWN COuRT iN SWANSEA

ViOlENCE ESCAlATES

The court was told Webber had been in a relationship with the woman for only a month when the attack happened at her flat in Haverfordwest on May 31.

When she refused to fetch alcohol from the shop, Webber struck her in the face and later kicked her in the forehead while wearing shoes. He accused her of “being dramatic” before arming himself with a large kitchen knife, calling her a “lying rat” and a “grass”, and pulling her head back by her hair.

He then cut her face and throat with the blade before taunting her and telling her he had been paid £5,000 to kill her, with another £5,000 promised on completion – and even more if he raped her.

‘BRuTAl AND SADiSTiC’

Prosecutor Emily Bennett said Webber threatened to kill the woman if

she called 999. Over the course of the night he headbutted, punched, strangled and terrorised her, at times pressing the knife to her throat.

Eventually, after he fell asleep, the woman managed to contact a friend from the bathroom, who raised the alarm.

Judge Paul Thomas KC told Webber: “You brutally and sadistically attacked a woman who was unfortunate enough to be involved in a brief relationship with you. She understandably thought she

was going to die at your hands.”

SENTENCE

Webber, now of Market Street, Whitland, but originally from Haverfordwest, admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm, strangulation, and threatening a person with a knife in a private place.

The court heard he has 17 previous convictions for 26 offences, including

domestic violence against former partners in 2008 and 2011.

Stuart John, defending, said Webber now recognised the “devastating” impact of his actions and hoped to tackle his issues with drugs and alcohol in custody.

Webber was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison. He must serve half behind bars before being released on licence, and was also made the subject of an indefinite restraining order banning contact with his victim.

Former GP practice manager sentenced for £49k fraud

A FORMER GP practice manager who stole more than £49,000 from an NHS surgery in Neath has been ordered to repay £25,000 following an investigation by NHS Counter Fraud Service (NHS CFS) Wales.

Kimberley Wilson, 52, of Tabernacle Street, Skewen, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on 12 September, where she was ordered to pay £5,000 in compensation to Castle Surgery, Neath, at a rate of £200 a month over the next two years. This follows a payment of £20,000 she made on 21 July.

Wilson had previously pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on 21 May. On 7 August, she was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court to two years’ imprisonment, suspended for two years. She was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work and complete 25 days of rehabilitation activity.

The court heard that between April 2019 and March 2023, Wilson defrauded Castle Surgery of £49,213.08 while employed as practice manager. She was dismissed for gross misconduct after the fraud was uncovered.

Accountants for the practice raised concerns which led to an NHS CFS Wales investigation. Investigators discovered Wilson had been transferring money from the practice’s business account into her own, using references such as “petty cash” and “advance”, as well as purchasing personal items directly from the account. A production order under the Proceeds of Crime Act gave investigators access to her bank accounts, confirming the fraud.

The stolen funds were found to have been spent on everyday living costs and gambling.

Emily Thompson, Counter Fraud Specialist at NHS CFS Wales, said: “Wilson abused her position of trust to steal money that was meant for NHS patient care. Her actions were motivated by greed and represent a serious breach of the trust placed in her by her employers and colleagues.

“This outcome sends a clear message that diverting funds from the NHS is unacceptable and will lead to serious consequences, including a criminal record.”

Judge brands CK’s appalling

A lEADiNG Welsh supermarket has been hit with a £36,000 fine after admitting three breaches of food safety law at its Narberth store.

CK’s Supermarket failed to declare sesame seeds – a potentially lifethreatening allergen – in two of its most popular breads. The Chia bread contained sesame seeds not listed on its ingredients label, while the multiseed bread failed to mention a topping called ‘Decor Classic’, which also contains sesame.

In a further breach, the store’s beef grill sticks were sold without warning that they contained sodium metabisulphite, an additive which can cause severe

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allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.

The company pleaded guilty this week at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court to three counts of contravening the General Food Regulations 2004. Prosecuting on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council, Harry Dickens told District Judge Mark Layton that the breaches were uncovered during a routine food inspection on July 24.

“The products were made on site in the in-store bakery from batch ingredients while the labels are made

at the head offices in Llanelli,” said Mr Dickens. “No reference was made on the labels to the sesame seeds in the multiseed bread, the sesame seeds in the Chia bread and to the sodium metabisulphite in the beef grill steaks.”

The court heard that once the head office was notified of the problems, the items were immediately removed from sale.

However, Judge Layton said the latest case added to a long history of poor practice. He described CK’s “catalogue of previous convictions” as “appalling” and evidence of “disregard for hygiene and food safety over a number of years.”

CK’s has previously been prosecuted for:

• 2007: selling out-of-date items

• 2009: failing to comply with food hygiene standards

• 2011: 16 charges of selling food beyond its sell-by date

• 2013: 12 charges of selling out-ofdate food

• 2015: selling bread containing ‘foreign objects’, namely food labels

In addition to the fine, the company was ordered to pay £2,849 in costs to Pembrokeshire County Council and a £2,000 victim surcharge.

Police appeal after attempted burglary in Pembroke Dock

POliCE are appealing for information following an attempted burglary in Pembroke Dock.

The incident happened at around 3:50am on Wednesday, August 28, at a property on Trinity Road.

Officers have pursued all other lines of enquiry and are now asking

for the public’s help to identify the person in the image released, who may have information that could assist the investigation.

Anyone who recognises the individual, or who has information that could help, is urged to contact police. You can do so via the Dyfed-Powys

Police website at: https://www.dyfedpowys.police.uk/contact/af/contact-usbeta/contact-us/, by emailing 101@ dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

MP calls for action after Welsh sailor detained by Israel

PlAiD CYMRu MP Ben lake has urged the uK Government to act swiftly after a Welsh woman was detained by israeli forces during the interception of a flotilla bound for Gaza.

Hannah Schafer, from Cardigan, was among an estimated 500 activists and aid workers on board the convoy, which campaigners say carried humanitarian supplies intended for Palestinians. Ms Schafer is believed to be the only person from Wales aboard the mission, which included participants from more than 40 countries.

lARGEST HuMANiTARiAN FlOTillA YET

The flotilla, which organisers say consisted of more than 50 vessels, is believed to be the largest mission of its kind to attempt to break the long-standing sea blockade on Gaza. According to reports, Israeli naval forces intercepted the convoy around 70 nautical miles from the territory, well beyond Israel’s territorial waters.

While Israel has consistently patrolled the waters around Gaza since the blockade began in 2007, legal experts argue it has no jurisdiction in international waters. UN officials have repeatedly said that aid flotillas enjoy the right of free

passage under international law.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, reiterated that call this week, urging Israel to “urgently lift the blockade on Gaza and allow the entry of life-saving material through all means possible.”

lETTER TO THE FOREiGN SECRETARY

Mr Lake, who is Plaid Cymru’s spokesperson on foreign affairs, has written to Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper calling for urgent diplomatic intervention. In his letter, he described the incident as a “flagrant breach of international law” and raised concerns about the wellbeing of UK nationals, including his constituent.

He wrote: “Her family and friends are deeply concerned about her wellbeing, and I implore you to make representations to your Israeli counterparts regarding this flagrant breach of international law.”

Mr Lake also questioned Israeli claims that those detained were “safe and in good health,” citing reports of water cannon being used during the interception.

The Israeli Government has long argued that its blockade of Gaza is necessary to prevent weapons and military equipment from reaching Hamas. Officials maintain that the naval cordon is a matter of national security, claiming that militant groups have repeatedly attempted to smuggle arms by sea.

A spokesperson for the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said: “We will not allow unauthorised vessels to breach the maritime security zone off Gaza. Any ship attempting to enter without permission will be stopped and redirected.”

However, human rights groups dispute this justification, pointing to the humanitarian cost of the blockade, which has been in place for more than 17 years.

A HiSTORY OF CONFRONTATiON

This is not the first time flotillas have been intercepted in their attempt to reach Gaza. In 2010, a Turkish-led mission known as the Mavi Marmara was raided by Israeli commandos, leading to the deaths of 10 activists and sparking international outrage. That incident brought global attention to the blockade and fuelled calls for its end.

Since then, several smaller flotillas have set sail, but few have reached Gaza, with most diverted or stopped by Israeli forces before entering the territory.

Campaign groups in the UK have echoed Mr Lake’s concerns, saying the flotilla sought to highlight what they describe as a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Aid agencies estimate that more than two million people in the territory are living under severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel.

A spokesperson for the Free Gaza Movement, which helped coordinate the convoy, said: “These boats carried nothing but humanitarian supplies and people of conscience from across the world. The international community must hold Israel accountable for obstructing life-saving aid.”

uK GOVERNMENT RESPONSE AWAiTED

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has confirmed it is in contact with Israeli authorities and is seeking urgent clarification on the number of UK nationals detained.

Ms Cooper has not yet issued a public statement, but sources within the FCDO said officials were “monitoring the situation closely.”

For Hannah Schafer’s family and friends in Cardigan, the wait for news continues. One close friend told The Herald: “Hannah went because she believes ordinary people can make a difference. We just want her home safe.”

iSRAEl’S POSiTiON

CAllS FOR ACCOuNTABiliTY

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Concerned: Ben Lake MP is concerned for the safety of Hannah Schafer, from Cardigan

Hannah Schafer, from Cardigan

Work begins on Milford Haven flats as concerns raised over value for money

Cost per unit exceeds £270k after scheme delay and redesign

CONSTRuCTiON on a longdelayed sheltered housing scheme in Milford Haven will finally begin next week — but questions remain over the spiralling costs and scale of the project.

The Gwêl yr Hafan development on Charles Street, set for the former Motorworld site, will provide 24 sheltered flats. Building work by contractors WB Griffiths is scheduled to start on Monday (Oct 6) and take around 20 months to complete.

The scheme has been dogged by setbacks. It was first approved in 2019 at an estimated cost of £2.9 million for 15 flats, but stalled when the original contractor, WRW Construction, went into administration. After being re-tendered, the project has been redesigned to 24 units across four storeys, at a revised cost of £6.7 million.

That figure equates to more than £270,000 per flat, far higher than typical property prices in Milford Haven. Local critics have pointed out that larger family homes can be bought in the area for less than the cost of a single flat in the scheme.

The increased size of the building has also raised eyebrows. From Charles Street the development will appear as four storeys, and from Barlow Street to the rear it will be read as five storeys because of the sloping site. This makes it significantly larger and taller than surrounding properties.

Pembrokeshire County Council says the costs reflect updated Welsh Government housing standards requiring higher energy efficiency and accessibility, but the unit cost remains well above benchmark figures.

To update residents, the council’s Housing Services team will hold a community drop-in session on Monday, November 17 at the Lord Nelson Hotel, Milford Haven, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm.

Haverfordwest man jailed after violent attacks on partner

A HAVERFORDWEST man who subjected his partner to hours of violence, including stubbing a lit cigarette into her face, has been jailed for 16 months.

NiGHT OF ViOlENCE

Michael Simms, aged 43, turned up at his partner’s address in Haverfordwest on the evening of August 24, despite being barred from contacting her under a domestic violence protection order imposed just ten days earlier.

Over the course of four hours, Swansea Crown Court heard, he pursued her between different locations, turning up at a friend’s house, then following her home, before launching a series of assaults.

Prosecutor Regan Walters said Simms was believed to have been under the influence of drugs when he arrived. After returning with alcohol and cigarettes, he stubbed a burning cigarette into his partner’s cheek when she attempted to smoke.

The victim tried to escape, but Simms forced his way into her home, using his foot to stop the door closing and punching her in the face. Later, when she refused to hand over another cigarette, he hit her twice to the head.

ViCTiM iNjuRED

The court heard the woman eventually fled to a neighbour’s house, where the neighbour saw swelling around her eye and a burn mark to her cheek. She called police, who attended at around 9:40pm

Court Reporter

and confirmed visible injuries.

Around 20 minutes later, Simms returned to the property, denying he had assaulted her and claiming instead that his “life was in danger” from the victim.

PREViOuS

HiSTORY

The court was told that police had received almost 30 separate reports of domestic violence involving Simms in the previous twelve months, but no charges had been brought in those cases.

Simms also had a lengthy criminal record: 44 previous convictions for 69 offences, including a 2013 assault on a former partner who was pregnant at the time.

DEFENCE PlEA

In mitigation, Emily Bennett said her client had begun using cannabis at the age of 15 before progressing to harder drugs including heroin and crack cocaine. She described his record as “unenviable,” but argued he had managed to stay out of trouble for five years before this incident.

She told the court that Simms had not been to prison for a decade and described the present sentence as a “sharp shock” that had left him “unhappy he had placed himself in this position.”

SENTENCE iMPOSED

Judge Catherine Richards said the

violence was aggravated by Simms’ previous record and the fact he was already subject to a court order when he carried out the attacks.

She sentenced him to 16 months

in custody after he admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm, three charges of assault by beating, and stalking involving fear of violence.

Local MS condemns Manchester synagogue attack, calls for unity and protection

SAMuEl KuRTZ MS has condemned the deadly attack on a synagogue in Manchester during Yom Kippur, describing it as “a vile and disgusting act” and expressing solidarity with the jewish community.

The incident happened at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall on Thursday (Oct 2), when worshippers had gathered for prayer on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.

Police confirmed that two people were killed and three others seriously injured after an attacker rammed a vehicle into pedestrians before stabbing bystanders outside the synagogue. Officers shot the suspect dead, with bomb disposal teams later called to the scene after suspicious items were found on his body.

Mr Kurtz said: “Anti-Semitism has reared its ugly head once again. This was a vile and disgusting attack on a synagogue in Manchester — and it took place on Yom Kippur, when families came together in prayer. That makes this horror all the more shocking.

“My deepest condolences go to the bereaved, and to all those injured — and my thoughts are with their families and loved ones. I know many in our Jewish

community will feel deeply shaken. To them I say: you are not alone.

“We must demand accountability, increase protection for places of worship, and reaffirm our commitment to standing firm against hatred and religiously motivated violence. In Wales, and across the UK, we owe it to our communities to build safety, trust and unity in the face of such terror.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer cut short an overseas visit to chair an emergency COBRA meeting, later describing the attack as “all the more horrific” because it coincided with Yom Kippur. Extra police have since been deployed to synagogues and Jewish community sites across the country, including London, as a precaution.

The Community Security Trust (CST), which monitors anti-Semitic incidents, has warned that hostility against Jewish people has risen sharply in recent years. More than 1,500 incidents were reported in the first half of 2025, one of the highest figures ever recorded.

The attack is being treated as a major terror-related incident under Operation Plato — the national response protocol for marauding attacks.

Templeton man fined for careless driving on Heads of the Valleys Road

A TEMPlETON man has been fined after admitting driving without reasonable consideration for other road users.

James Probert, 25, of Poyers Grove, Templeton, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sep 30).

The court heard that on December 16, 2024, Probert was driving a Kia Sportage on the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road at Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taf, when he drove without

reasonable consideration for others.

Probert entered a guilty plea to the offence, which falls under section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Magistrates imposed a fine of £130, ordered him to pay £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service and a £92 victim surcharge. His driving record was endorsed with six penalty points.

He must pay the total amount by November 25, 2025, under a collection order.

Jailed for string of offences and faces Crown Court arson charge

A PEMBROKE man has been jailed for multiple driving and public order offences and has also been sent to Crown Court accused of arson with intent to endanger life.

Mark Bloxham, 41, of Greenfield Farm, Pembroke, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Sep 29). He faced several charges arising from incidents in the town earlier this month.

DRiNK DRiViNG AND DRiViNG WHilE DiSquAliFiED

On September 5, Bloxham drove a green Daihatsu on Orange Way, Pembroke, while more than three times the legal drink-drive limit. Tests showed 111 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath – the legal limit being 35.

He was also found to have no valid insurance or MOT certificate and was driving while disqualified.

Magistrates imposed a 40-month driving ban and jailed him for 12 weeks,

taking into account the high alcohol reading, his disqualification, and the number of offences committed at the same time.

PuBliC ORDER AND ASSAulT ON OFFiCER

During the same incident, Bloxham used threatening behaviour towards a member of the public, Steven John Harvey, causing harassment and alarm. He also assaulted an emergency worker, PC Richards, by headbutting him.

Magistrates described the assault as an “A1 offence” because of the headbutt and imposed an uplift in sentence. Bloxham was jailed for 12 weeks for the assault, consecutive to his other custodial terms.

ARSON AllEGATiON SENT TO CROWN COuRT

Separately, Bloxham faces an allegation of arson with intent to endanger life, relating to an incident on September 27 in Milford Haven. It is alleged that he set fire to a box, intending to damage property and endanger life. The case was sent to Swansea Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on October 31.

Bloxham was remanded in custody until that hearing.

Historic Pembroke Dock landmark sold at auction

A lANDMARK Pembrokeshire building, left derelict for nearly two decades, has been sold under the hammer.

The Grade II listed property, known most recently as the Commodore Hotel, was originally constructed in the early 1830s as the residence for the Captain Superintendent of the Royal Naval Dockyard in Pembroke Dock. Later renamed Admiralty House, it has stood empty and deteriorating since a major fire in 2006.

On Wednesday, September 17, auctioneers Allsop – billed as the UK’s largest commercial property auction specialists – offered the 981-year leasehold with a guide price of £25,000.

Strong competition among bidders pushed the final sale price to £65,000. Allsop partner Tom Wright said there had been “very good interest” in the lot, although the buyer’s identity and future plans for the site have not been disclosed.

The building had previously gone to auction in 2013, fetching £85,000. At that time it carried conditional planning consent for redevelopment, but the approval has since expired.

By

Two actors. One haunted house. Endless possibilities. Dau actor. Un tŷ bwgan. Posibiliadau diddiwedd. A chilling NEW production from the Torch Theatre.

Cynhyrchiad NEWYDD brawychus Theatr Torch.

8 - 25 October

From the story by Henry James

A Torch Theatre Company Production Cynhyrchiad Cwmni Theatr Torch

Haverfordwest man cleared of assault charge

A HAVERFORDWEST guest house owner has been found NOT GuilTY of an assault charge following a trial at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

Colin Larby, 65, of College Guest House, Hill Street, had denied a charge of assault by beating, contrary to section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

The court heard that the incident was alleged to have taken place in Haverfordwest on April 19, when Mr

Larby was accused of assaulting Pauline Good.

Mr Larby entered a not guilty plea on August 19 and the case proceeded to trial on Monday (Sept 29). After hearing the evidence, magistrates Dr S Hancock, Dr R Williams and Mrs D Griffiths found him not guilty.

The case was dismissed and the court ordered that Mr Larby’s legal costs be paid from central funds, with the amount to be assessed.

Tenby’s Dinosaur Park put up for sale after three decades

TENBY’S much-loved Dinosaur Park, which has welcomed millions of visitors since opening in the 1990s, has been put up for sale.

The family-run attraction, officially known as The Dinosaur Park Tenby, is on the market with a guide price of around £4m. It includes more than 90 life-sized dinosaurs, 36 rides and activities, indoor and outdoor play zones, cafés, a shop and extensive woodland trails.

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Specialist agents Christie & Co are handling the sale on behalf of the owners, who have decided to step back after over thirty years at the helm. The park, which has consistently drawn families from across Wales and beyond, also comes with an optional 120 acres of land and a three-bedroom bungalow on the site.

The attraction has remained popular in recent years, reporting a strong rise in visitor numbers during the last season. Easter 2024 saw a 35% increase in footfall compared with the previous year, helped by new exhibits including “dancing dinosaurs” that proved a hit with younger audiences.

Accounts show the business is profitable, with more than £1m in gross profit generated during the most recent

financial year.

The Dinosaur Park has been a fixture of Pembrokeshire’s tourism industry since 1994 and is regarded as one of the county’s flagship family attractions. Its sale marks the end of an era but also an opportunity for new owners to expand on its success.

Christie & Co said they expect significant interest, with potential buyers ranging from leisure operators to private investors.

Milford robber jailed after shopkeeper’s milk crate fightback

A WOMAN at the centre of one of Milford Haven’s most notorious attempted robberies has been jailed, while her co-accused is now wanted after failing to turn up for sentencing.

Jessie Thompson, aged 31, from Steynton, was locked up for three years and four months after she admitted trying to hold up Pill Corner Stores with a knife last summer.

Her accomplice, 25-year-old Bethan John of Howarth Close, was due to face justice alongside her, but never arrived at court. Her barrister told the judge she “couldn’t afford” to travel. Judge Paul Thomas KC immediately issued a warrant for her arrest.

The attempted robbery, in which the shopkeeper famously fought back with

a milk crate, quickly spread on social media when CCTV footage was shared online. Locals recognised Thompson by her tattoo and footwear, leading police straight to the pair.

Thompson has a string of previous offences, including drug supply and theft from her work as a carer. Defence counsel Dan Griffiths said her life had been dominated by addiction, and that she had given no thought to the trauma caused to the shopkeeper.

Judge Thomas described the ordeal as “terrifying” and told Thompson she had repeatedly thrust the knife at the victim.

She is now behind bars, beginning a sentence of more than three years, while John remains at large on warrant.

Driver caught with knife and four drugs in system

A 54-YEAR-OlD man has been sentenced after being caught driving through Pembrokeshire in possession of a knife and with no fewer than four illegal drugs in his system.

Police officers were alerted to Simon Wayt’s standard of driving as he travelled along the A478 towards Kilgetty on the evening of March 31.

“Police observed his vehicle crossing over the central line and when the defendant was stopped at the Kilgetty roundabout, he was found to have a folding pocket knife in his trouser pocket,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan when Wayt appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

The knife had a blade exceeding 7.62 centimetres (three inches), placing it in the offensive weapon category.

Subsequent blood tests carried out at the police station showed Wayt had no fewer than four illegal drugs in his system: 480mcg of benzoyleconine, 25mcg of cocaine, 96mcg of ketamine and 36mcg of methylamphetamine.

Wayt, of Wentworth Crescent, Swansea, pleaded guilty to all five charges. He was represented in court by solicitor Tom Lloyd, who said his client

had been working in Rosemarket, near Neyland, at the time of the offence.

“He took substances before leaving his accommodation in Rosemarket that morning, and his drug abuse was recreational,” said Mr Lloyd. “But it becomes more pronounced when he’s working away from home.”

Wayt was sentenced to 24 weeks in custody, suspended for 18 months, and was disqualified from driving for 42 months. He must carry out ten rehabilitation activity requirement days and 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £154 court surcharge.

Handyman banned for 40 months

A PEMBROKESHiRE handyman has been banned from the roads for more than three years after admitting driving through Haverfordwest while three times over the drug-drive limit.

Robert Smielewicz, 52, was stopped by officers carrying out a routine check at Bridge Meadow Lane, Haverfordwest, at 7:00pm on May 19. Police noticed a strong smell of cannabis coming from his Volvo V50. A roadside drugs swipe tested positive, and subsequent analysis showed 8.9mcg of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system. The legal limit is 2mcg.

The court heard this was Smielewicz’s

second drug-drive conviction in ten years, following a similar appearance in 2020.

Smielewicz, who pleaded guilty via a Polish interpreter, was represented by solicitor Tom Lloyd. He told the court: “The defendant works as a self-employed handyman, so to carry on working after losing his licence is going to be practically impossible for him.”

District Judge Mark Layton, sitting at Haverfordwest magistrates this week, disqualified Smielewicz from driving for 40 months. He was also fined £350 and ordered to pay £140 court surcharge and £85 costs.

Woman sentenced for string of shop thefts

A CARDiGAN woman has been sentenced after admitting a series of shop thefts and attempted thefts in Ceredigion.

Kelly Harcourt, 39, of Maes Henffordd, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 24). She admitted stealing food items worth £50.62 from Tesco, Cardigan, on July 17, and further thefts and attempted thefts from Tesco and Spar on August 8, 10, 11, 19 and 28. The total value of goods taken was several hundred pounds, though

some items were recovered.

Harcourt was made subject to a 12-month community order. This includes a nine-month drug rehabilitation requirement and up to 20 days of rehabilitation activity.

She must also pay £114.68 in compensation, £85 prosecution costs and a £114 victim surcharge.

Magistrates noted that Harcourt’s guilty pleas had been taken into account when passing sentence.

PATH welcomes support from leading barrister Robert Griffiths KC

PATH (Pembrokeshire Action for The Homeless) has announced the support of Robert Griffiths KC, one of the uK’s leading barristers, as the charity develops ambitious plans to expand and sustain its work with some of the most vulnerable people in the county.

Robert, who grew up in Pembrokeshire and now practises law in London, has agreed to become involved with PATH at a pivotal time. His experience, insight, and national networks are expected to strengthen the charity’s efforts to secure long-term funding, diversify income streams, and raise its profile both locally and across the UK.

During a recent visit to Haverfordwest, Robert met with PATH’s Managing Director, Michael Hooper, to discuss the charity’s future direction. Their wideranging conversation included new fundraising opportunities, the possibility of hosting high-profile events, and innovative proposals such as developing a social estate agency to generate sustainable income while tackling housing need.

Robert also expressed his enthusiasm for PATH’s vision to revitalise communities and provide practical support for those experiencing homelessness and poor

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mental health. He has already offered to provide feedback on the charity’s emerging business case and to help open doors to transformative opportunities.

Michael Hooper said: “We are thrilled that Robert has agreed to support us. His knowledge, commitment, and passion for Pembrokeshire come at exactly the right moment, as we looak to strengthen our services and build a sustainable future. His involvement will make a real difference to our ability to deliver for the people who rely on us.”

Robert Griffiths KC added:

“Pembrokeshire has always been close to my heart, and I am impressed by the work PATH is doing to support people facing real hardship. I am delighted to lend my support at this important time, and I look forward to working with the team to help strengthen the charity and create new opportunities for the community.”

PATH said it looks forward to building on this momentum in the months ahead as it continues its mission to prevent homelessness, improve mental wellbeing, and create brighter futures in Pembrokeshire.

Man and teenager in court over £18,000 car showroom damage

A PENSiONER and a teenager have appeared before magistrates accused of causing thousands of pounds worth of damage to vehicles at a Ceredigion car showroom.

The court heard that six vehicles at Cawdor Cars, Newcastle Emlyn, were allegedly damaged on April 19, 2024. The cost of the damage has been put at £18,373.31.

The defendants are Mathew Edmonds, 78, of Dinas Ceri, Cwm Cou, and a 15-year-old youth who cannot be named for legal reasons. Both are accused of jointly committing the offence of criminal damage contrary to the Criminal Damage

Act 1971.

The case was heard at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 30) before magistrates Mr R Bowen, Miss

A Davies and Mr S Griffiths, with legal adviser Lleni Jones. The prosecution was conducted by CPS Wales (North).

No pleas were entered during the hearing. The case was adjourned at the request of the defence after a solicitor was unavailable.

Both defendants were released on unconditional bail and ordered to appear at Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, October 16, at 10:00am, when pleas will be taken.

Firefighters called after milk tanker leaves road

FiREFiGHTERS from Carmarthen Fire Station were called to the scene of a milk tanker crash near Ffynnonddrain at 10:59am on Monday (Sept 29).

The incident involved a heavy goods vehicle carrying around 28,000 litres of milk, which left the carriageway and travelled down an embankment.

Crews worked to prevent milk from

leaking from the tanker and to make the scene safe. The driver of the vehicle was treated at the scene by Ambulance Service personnel before being taken to hospital by road ambulance.

The response involved multiple agencies, including Dyfed-Powys Police, the Ambulance Service, the Highways Department and the Local Authority.

Fire crews left the scene at 12:43pm.

Johnston man faces Crown Court arson charge

A jOHNSTON man has been sent to Crown Court accused of committing arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.

Callum Rees, aged 20, of Ton Lin, St Peters Road, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Oct 1).

The court heard that on June 16, in Johnston, Rees is alleged to have set fire to clothing belonging to Lauren Rix, being reckless as to whether property would be destroyed or whether the life of another would be endangered.

Represented by Mike Kelleher, Rees

entered no plea. Prosecutor Nia James said the seriousness of the allegation meant it had to be dealt with at Crown Court.

The bench of Mrs L Goss, Mr D England and Mr D Perks sent the case to Swansea Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on Friday, October 31, at 9:00am.

Rees was granted conditional bail with requirements not to enter The Kilns, Kiln Road, Johnston, not to contact Tanya or Lauren Rix, and to live and sleep each night at his home address.

Amphetamine supply committed to Crown Court

A BOW STREET man has been remanded in custody after admitting possessing amphetamine with intent to supply.

Robert Thomas, aged 44, of Maes Afallen, Bow Street, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Oct 1).

The court heard that Thomas was arrested on August 30 when police discovered a quantity of amphetamine, a Class B drug. He was charged with possession with intent to supply, contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Prosecutor Nia James told the court that the offence was too serious to be dealt

with by the magistrates. A second charge of simple possession was withdrawn.

Thomas, represented by Alan Lewis, indicated a guilty plea at the first hearing.

The bench, made up of Mrs L Goss, Mr D England and Mr D Perks, committed the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentence.

Thomas was remanded in custody on the grounds of the seriousness of the offence, the likely sentence, and the risk of further offending.

He is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday, October 22, at 9:00am for a committal for sentence hearing.

Near-disaster at Castlemartin as Warrior fires on Challenger 2

BRiTiSH soldiers narrowly avoided tragedy when one of their own tanks was mistakenly targeted during a live-fire training exercise in Pembrokeshire.

The incident took place on Thursday (Sept 18) at Castlemartin training area, when the crew of an FV510 Warrior armoured vehicle, fitted with a 30mm Rarden cannon, misidentified a Challenger 2 main battle tank as an enemy vehicle after spotting it through a thermal sight about 500 metres away.

The Warrior crew performed an emergency shoot, firing on fully automatic and emptying three magazines.

ROuNDS RiCOCHET OFF

Fortunately, the Warrior’s Rarden cannon was loaded with inert practice rounds rather than the high-explosive or armour-piercing ammunition normally used in combat.

Five rounds struck the Challenger 2 but ricocheted harmlessly off its Dorchester armour, regarded as among the best in the world. None of the four crew members inside was injured.

The training involved soldiers from the Royal Tank Regiment working with the Royal Welsh Regiment. Both units are scheduled to deploy to Estonia as part of Nato’s eastern defence.

MOD RESPONSE

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “The safety of the public and our service personnel is an absolute priority, and we immediately launched a formal investigation following the incident.

“The incident took place on private land with no access to the public. No civilians or service personnel

were injured, and no vehicles were damaged, with Challenger having already returned to training.

“All live-firing exercises are subject to the highest standards of safety. The rounds used were practice rounds, with no armour-piercing or high-explosive properties.”

WiDER CONCERNS

Colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a former British Army tank commander, told reporters that such mistakes are “disturbingly common” in training. He recalled his own tank being hit by a Warrior during exercises in the Gulf War, adding: “The violence of a round going off near you is incredible. The tank probably wouldn’t even have noticed when it was hit, to be honest.”

The episode comes in the same week as a separate case of friendly fire, in which a special forces

soldier mistakenly reloaded with live ammunition during a night exercise, leaving a colleague with life-changing injuries.

Bulford Military Court heard that the victim, identified only as Soldier A, suffered gunshot wounds to the forearm, abdomen, chest and right arm, and was later medically discharged.

Judge England said the shooter, Soldier B, had fired 23 live rounds in total, with “the last seven rounds causing the life-changing injuries”.

Cardigan man avoids prison after online child sex sting

A MAN from Cardigan who sent explicit videos to what he thought was a 14-year-old girl has been handed a suspended sentence at Swansea Crown Court.

The court heard Gavin Carter, of Felin Bach, struck up contact with a social media account called “Lilly” on June 26. Unbeknown to him, the profile was operated by a group dedicated to exposing adults seeking sexual contact with children.

GROOMiNG ATTEMPTS ExPOSED

When Carter told Lilly he was 45, the account replied that she was 14. Despite this, he gave her his number and began speaking to her on WhatsApp.

Prosecutor Ian Wright said Carter quickly turned the conversation sexual. He said he wanted to join her in the bath

and talked about kissing and intimate touching. That same day, Carter sent a video of himself masturbating.

Four days later, another video was sent, along with instructions that the “girl” should carry out a sexual act with a banana. Further sexual discussions followed before Carter broke off communication.

On July 12, members of the paedophile-hunter group went to his home. Police were called and he was arrested.

ADMiSSiONS AND GuilTY PlEAS

Carter told officers he did not have a sexual interest in children, but admitted sending the videos and requesting images despite knowing Lilly had said she was 14.

He later pleaded guilty to attempted sexual communication with a child, attempted incitement of a child to

engage in sexual activity, and two counts of attempting to engage in sexual activity in the presence of a child.

SENTENCiNG REMARKS

The court was told Carter had numerous previous convictions, mainly linked to alcohol misuse, but none of a sexual nature.

Defence barrister Dan Griffiths said his client had been living as “a recluse,” struggling with isolation and drinking heavily. He added that Carter recognised the seriousness of his behaviour, had ended the conversations himself before being confronted, and told police he was “disgusted” by his actions.

Recorder P. Lewis imposed a 20-month custodial sentence, suspended for two years. Carter must

complete a six-month alcohol treatment course, 150 hours of unpaid work, and 25 rehabilitation activity days. He will remain on the sex offenders register for 10 years and is subject to a sexual harm prevention order for the same length of time.

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Liberal Democrats condemn sewage dumping as E.coli found at Broad Haven

THE WElSH liberal Democrats have condemned what they describe as “shocking” levels of sewage pollution across Wales’ national parks, as fresh public health fears were raised after E.coli was discovered in two streams at BROAD HAVEN.

A new report by the Campaign for National Parks reveals that almost half (48%) of rivers in Welsh national parks fail to meet good ecological standards. The findings point to “hundreds of thousands of hours of sewage spills, agricultural run-off and a toxic chemical cocktail from sewer overflows inside national parks.”

POlluTiON HOTSPOTS iDENTiFiED

Eryri (Snowdonia) was among the worst affected, recording more than 47,000 hours of sewage spills. Campaigners warn that in its natural state Eryri’s waters should be of the highest possible quality – making the scale of pollution all the more stark.

The PEMBROKESHIRE Coast National Park was also highlighted in the report, with 38 sewage overflows leading to nearly 16,000 hours of discharges in 2024 alone.

BROAD HAVEN E.COli AlERT

Concerns in Pembrokeshire intensified this week after dangerously high levels of E.coli were detected in Broad Haven. Local MS Paul Davies said he met with an environmental

specialist who tested two streams, finding levels “alarmingly high – much higher than even poor bathing quality.”

Calling for urgent action, Mr Davies said: “Water quality must be a priority for the Welsh Government, and Natural Resources Wales must have the resources to manage our water sources and ensure they are as safe as possible.”

BEACONS uNDER PRESSuRE

In BANNAU BRYCHEINIOG, more than half of river water bodies (53.8%) are now rated as moderate to bad, with over 22,000 hours of sewage dumping recorded in 2023. Experts warn that such discharges not only damage water quality and habitats but also increase flood risk and harm fragile ecosystems.

woman admits dangerous dog offence

A PEMBROKE DOCK woman has admitted being in charge of a dog which injured a youth while dangerously out of control.

Bethany Clark, 29, of Wesley Court, Pembroke Dock, appeared before District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 30). The prosecution was conducted by Sian Vaughan on behalf of Dyfed-Powys Police.

The court heard that on October 25, 2024, Clark’s dog, a pet named Taz, was dangerously out of control at her home address in Wesley Court. During the incident, the dog injured a youth, Drake Duffin.

Clark indicated a guilty plea at the first hearing.

The case was adjourned until October 21, 2025, at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court for sentencing, when pre-sentence reports will be considered.

Magistrates directed that the Crown Prosecution Service make further enquiries regarding whether a dog destruction order or contingent order should be sought, and to confirm the nature of the injuries and obtain a victim impact statement.

Clark was released on unconditional bail until her next appearance.

Milford Haven man faces careless driving charge after serious injury crash

A MilFORD HAVEN man has been charged in connection with a collision that left another person seriously injured.

Jaydon Elliott, aged 21, of Glebelands, Hakin, is accused of causing serious injury by careless or inconsiderate driving on December 17, 2023.

The case was heard at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Sept 25). Elliott did not enter a plea, and the matter was adjourned for a future hearing in the magistrates’ court.

He was granted unconditional bail until his next appearance.

POliTiCAl REACTiON

David Chadwick MP, Welsh Liberal Democrat member for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, said:

“The statistics presented by the Campaign for National Parks are undeniably shocking. It is appalling that more than 254,000 hours of sewage were spilt into national park rivers across the UK, with 85,000 hours of that here in Wales. Even worse, a large proportion of this disgraceful pollution happened in Bannau Brycheiniog, in our own

constituency.

“This cannot continue. We need urgent, stricter regulations on sewage dumping, and water companies must be held fully accountable for the destruction they are causing. Both the Welsh Labour Government and the UK Labour Government have utterly failed to act.”

Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds MS added:

“Here in the Beacons, sewage dumping isn’t just an environmental disgrace; it’s a direct threat to our way of life. Our rivers, streams and lakes are the backbone of the local tourism industry, which so many families and businesses rely on. Visitors come here for clean waters and thriving wildlife, but sewage pollution puts all of that at risk.

“The wildlife that makes this area so special is suffering because of reckless dumping and weak regulation. Labour in both Cardiff Bay and Westminster is letting water companies get away with it. The Welsh Liberal Democrats are clear: we must stop this scandal now to protect our seas, safeguard local jobs and defend the natural beauty Wales is famous for.”

Investigation after alleged assault on boy at Haverfordwest skate park

DYFED-POWYS POliCE have confirmed they are investigating an alleged assault on an 11-year-old boy at Haverfordwest skate park on Saturday (Sept 27).

A local parent said on social media that his son had been attacked by adults while at the skate park. He further claimed that when he first contacted police, he was told there were not enough officers available to attend the scene.

The parent also alleged that after posting details of the incident on Facebook, several officers later attended his home address, where he says he was warned he could face arrest.

When asked by The Herald to respond

to the claims, Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of an allegation of assault, in Haverfordwest Skatepark on Saturday 27 September. Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”

No further details were provided by the force at the time of going to press.

The Herald understands that parents have raised concerns in recent months about safety at the skate park, which is regularly used by children and young people.

Anyone with information relating to the incident is asked to contact DyfedPowys Police on 101, quoting reference numbers if available.

Appeal to help find 16-year-old Emma

POliCE are appealing for information to help locate 16-year-old Emma, who has been reported missing from her home in Machynlleth.

Emma is believed to have travelled to the Newquay area of Ceredigion and may also have links to the Aberaeron area. She is likely to be using local bus services.

She is described as 5ft 4ins tall, of medium build, with long dark hair.

Anyone who has seen Emma, or who has information about her whereabouts, is urged to contact police immediately.

Please quote reference: DP-

Haverfordwest woman admits string of assaults and damage

A HAVERFORDWEST woman has admitted damaging property and assaulting police officers during a series of incidents in the town this summer.

Sarah Moane, 35, of Three Meadows, Haverfordwest, appeared before District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 30). The prosecution was conducted by Sian Vaughan for CPS Wales (South West).

The court heard that on June 30, 2025, Moane damaged the glass window of Pizza Time, Castle Square, Haverfordwest. The following day, on July 1, while in custody at Merlins Hill, she assaulted three emergency workers — PC 31 Harries, PC 70 Thomas and DC 922 Nunnick — by beating them.

Moane also admitted assaulting a member of the public, Richard Thomas, by beating him in Castle Square on June

30.

She pleaded guilty to all offences at an earlier hearing on July 2.

The court was told that Moane has been remanded in custody since conviction. A mental health treatment requirement assessment has been ordered before sentencing.

Sentencing has been adjourned until October 21, 2025, at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, when Moane is expected to appear via live link. The hearing is scheduled for 10:00am in Courtroom 01.

Milford Haven man sentenced after assault on police officer

A PEMBROKESHiRE electrician has been sentenced after shoulderbarging a police officer so hard that the back of her head struck a police vehicle.

Officers were called to Robert Street, Milford Haven, on the night of July 24 following reports of a street fight. They encountered Harry Holmes-Thompson, 26, who was described as being in a highly intoxicated state.

“He couldn’t speak properly nor stand up,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

She added that Holmes-Thompson refused to give officers his name and address, and police noticed powder around his nose.

STRuCK OFFiCER’S HEAD

“As a result of his conduct, he had to be taken to the floor by the police,” continued Ms Vaughan. “As the officers proceeded to place him inside the police vehicle, he shoulderbarred PC Dilks, causing the back of her head to strike the vehicle.”

Holmes-Thompson, of Coombs Drive, Milford Haven, pleaded guilty

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

to obstructing a constable in the execution of her duty, being drunk and disorderly in a public place, and assaulting PC Dilks by beating. He also admitted failing to surrender to court bail after missing a hearing at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on August 12.

REMORSE SHOWN

Represented by solicitor Michael Kelleher, the court heard HolmesThompson had shown “genuine remorse” for his actions.

“His job as an electrician is currently taking him all over Wales and he’s had no alcohol whatsoever for the last seven weeks,” Mr Kelleher told the court.

Holmes-Thompson was sentenced to a 12-month community order, including 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and a 120-day alcohol abstinence monitoring programme. He was also ordered to pay £100 compensation to the officer, £85 in costs, and a £114 court surcharge.

Man fined after threats outside hotel

A MAN has been fined after making threats to members of the public outside a Pembrokeshire hotel.

iNCiDENT AT THE GlENDOWER HOTEl

Police were called to the Glendower Hotel in Goodwick on the night of September 11 after Scott Hughes, 26, was ejected from the premises due to his intoxicated state.

“The call was made by the Glendower Hotel, because of the defendant’s behaviour,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.

“When the defendant got outside, he began shouting and threatening customers.”

RECENT OFFENCE

At the time of the incident Hughes was

described as “dazed and confused” due to his level of intoxication.

The court heard that the offence happened shortly after Hughes had been given a conditional discharge for a similar matter.

COuRT OuTCOME

Hughes, who is currently of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly in a public place.

He was fined £80, with a further £80 fine imposed for breaching the conditional discharge. He must also pay £85 court costs and a £32 surcharge, bringing the total to £277.

Tenby man denies abusive behaviour and criminal damage

A TENBY man has appeared before llanelli Magistrates’ Court accused of using threatening behaviour and causing criminal damage.

Dean Duffy, aged 30, of Churchill Close, Tenby, is charged with using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear or provoke violence on September

23, 2025. He also faces a charge of criminal damage to property valued under £5,000 on the same date.

Duffy entered not guilty pleas to both charges when he appeared in court on

Thursday (Sept 25). He was remanded on conditional bail, with the case listed to return to Llanelli Magistrates’ Court in October.

Plans to rebuild Ysgol Greenhill, Tenby, supported

A CAll for long-term building improvements or a new school build at Tenby’s Ysgol Greenhill where emergency works were started earlier this year after more than 700 building faults were found has been backed by councillors.

At the September Schools & Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, members were asked to scrutinise a July visit undertaken by the Schools Scrutiny Panel to Greenhill School, Tenby.

The school has approximately 900 pupils and Head Teacher David Haynes has been in post since 2021 when the school was in special measures.

It was removed from special measures in 2022.

The condition of the school building was noted by both teachers and pupils during the panel visit, a report for members said, with it being recognised that building work was being carried out during the scrutiny visit.

Emergency works were started earlier this year at the school, with a contract of more than £0.5m awarded

for urgent repairs after more than 700 building defects were found.

The report praised Mr Haynes’ “strong leadership” adding: “Cluster and partnership working has been a focus of the school since 2021; one of the recommendations from Estyn following their 2024 inspection was to improve Welsh Language teaching so work was ongoing with Narberth CP School to improve this.

“Pupils expressed that they would like the Welsh language to be more integrated in their lessons as it was not often spoken outside of Welsh Language classes.”

The report added: “It was noted that the Cluster had set two priorities focusing on improving attendance and reading.”

It said attendance was an ongoing issue post-Covid pandemic; the Senior Leadership Team working with the school cluster to improve this, and the relationship with the cluster has been strengthened and the school was working to improve reading

Man faces careless driving charge after serious injury crash

A MilFORD HAVEN man has been charged in connection with a collision that left another person seriously injured.

Jaydon Elliott, aged 21, of Glebelands, Hakin, is accused of causing serious injury by careless or inconsiderate driving on December 17, 2023.

The case was heard at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Sept 25). Elliott did not enter a plea, and the matter was adjourned for a future hearing in the magistrates’ court.

He was granted unconditional bail until his next appearance.

standards of incoming Year 7s, and reading standards in general.

In the report, the panel said more work is needed with Welsh language education, but concluded: “The Panel

was impressed by the significant improvements made by the school in the last two years since and praised the head teacher for the work he had carried out since his appointment in 2021.”

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Haynes pointed out the school was taken out of special measures in 2022, rather than a 2024 figure quoted in the report before thanking the council for the support around the repairs which had “a minimal impact of the running of the school”.

Members backed the recommendations before them that the director of education facilitates partnerships beyond the current cluster and provide resources for bilingual signage and Welsh language enrichment activities, school development advisors advocate for earlier reading assessments in primary schools and support transition programs focused on literacy, and for the council to prioritise funding and strategic planning for long-term building improvements or a new school build.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Woman denies dog noise breaches

A PEMBROKESHiRE woman has denied breaching a community protection notice on nine occasions after complaints about the barking of her dogs.

Julia Goodgame, 53, of Bryn y Derwydd, Trefin, appeared before District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 30), where she pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Prosecuting on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council, Harry Dickens told the court that the notice was issued on June 17, 2025, requiring Goodgame to keep her dogs under control.

“The concern that Pembrokeshire County Council has is with the noise pollution,” Mr Dickens said. “As a result

of the barking, others living close to her property are being regularly affected.”

The council alleges that Goodgame breached the order on June 17, 20, 22 and 27, and on July 7, 9, 10, 14 and 15.

After entering her pleas, Goodgame was released on unconditional bail pending her trial, which is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on November 10. Eight witnesses are expected to give evidence for the council.

Teen banned after cannabis offence

A 19-YEAR-OlD motorist has been banned from driving for 20 months after being caught with cannabis in his system.

Tristan Kraus was stopped after police saw his Audi A3 travelling above the speed limit. Officers noticed a strong smell of cannabis and carried out a roadside drugs swipe, which tested positive.

Subsequent blood tests showed Kraus, of The Maudlins, Broadwell Hayes, Tenby, had 3.8mcg of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in his system. The legal limit is 2. A trace of cocaine was also detected, though this was below the prescribed legal threshold.

Appearing before District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest magistrates court this week, Kraus pleaded guilty to drug-driving.

Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told the court: “His vehicle, an Audi A3, was seen travelling in excess of the speed limit. Smelling cannabis emanating from the vehicle, officers carried out a roadside

drugs swipe which proved positive.”

Kraus’s solicitor, Tom Lloyd, said the trace of cocaine was the residue of a quantity taken at a festival some ten days before his arrest. “He thought it would have been out of his system by this time,” he said.

Mr Lloyd added that Kraus had been grieving the loss of a grandparent at the time of the offence and had also been caring for his mother and younger sister. “His mother had an accident last year which required surgery and left her bed bound for four months. Tristan has been a tremendous source of support to her throughout this time, as well as to his younger sister.”

Judge Layton imposed a 12-month community order requiring Kraus to complete ten rehabilitation activity requirement days and 80 hours of unpaid work. He was also banned from driving for 20 months and ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £114 surcharge.

Man jailed for string of offences and faces Crown Court arson charge

A PEMBROKE man has been jailed for multiple driving and public order offences and has also been sent to Crown Court accused of arson with intent to endanger life.

Mark Bloxham, 41, of Greenfield Farm, Pembroke, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Monday (Sep 29). He faced several charges arising from incidents in the town earlier this month.

Drink driving and driving while disqualified

On September 5, Bloxham drove a green Daihatsu on Orange Way, Pembroke, while more than three times the legal drink-drive limit. Tests showed 111 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath – the legal limit being 35.

He was also found to have no valid insurance or MOT certificate and was driving while disqualified.

Magistrates imposed a 40-month driving ban and jailed him for 12 weeks, taking into account the high alcohol reading, his disqualification, and the number of offences committed at the

same time.

Public order and assault on officer

During the same incident, Bloxham used threatening behaviour towards a member of the public, Steven John Harvey, causing harassment and alarm. He also assaulted an emergency worker, PC Richards, by headbutting him.

Magistrates described the assault as an “A1 offence” because of the headbutt and imposed an uplift in sentence. Bloxham was jailed for 12 weeks for the assault, consecutive to his other custodial terms.

Arson allegation sent to Crown Court

Separately, Bloxham faces an allegation of arson with intent to endanger life, relating to an incident on September 27 in Milford Haven.

It is alleged that he set fire to a box, intending to damage property and endanger life. The case was sent to Swansea Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on October 31.

Bloxham was remanded in custody until that hearing.

Tenby pensioner handed order over sexual behaviour relapse

An 82-year-old Tenby man has been made subject to an interim Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) after admitting he was experiencing a relapse in his sexual behaviour.

Charles Carew Normington Mitchell appeared before District Judge Mark Layton at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week after Dyfed-Powys Police applied for the order, citing fresh concerns about his conduct.

The court heard that Mitchell himself supported the application. “I’ve already asked the police for a form, to stop me from being stupid,” he said. “I’m starting to relapse.”

Granting the order, District Judge Layton confirmed it will remain in place

for five years. It prohibits Mitchell, of Dewing Avenue, Tenby, from having any unsupervised contact or communication with children under the age of 18.

Sexual Harm Prevention Orders are civil orders which can be imposed by the courts when an individual is considered to pose a risk of sexual harm. They are designed to place restrictions on a person’s behaviour and can include conditions around internet use, travel, or association with children and vulnerable people. Breach of an SHPO is a criminal offence that can result in imprisonment.

The Herald understands the interim order against Mitchell will be subject to review and can be varied or discharged by the court if circumstances change.

Pencader man denies assaulting police officer

A PENCADER man will stand trial next month accused of assaulting a police officer.

Robert Rees, aged 29, of 106 Maescader, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 24).

The court heard the charge relates to an incident on August 23 at Maescader, Pencader, where Rees is alleged to have assaulted PC 1348 by beating him.

A second charge, alleging that Rees assaulted PC Watson while she was

acting in her role as an emergency worker, was withdrawn.

Rees pleaded not guilty to the remaining charge and was granted unconditional bail.

The case was adjourned for trial

at Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on October 30 at 10:00am. The trial is expected to last around 20 minutes. The bench consisted of Mr S Weatherall, Ms J Morgan and Dr G Clissold.

Discover the railway heritage of Fishguard Harbour

SOuTH WEST WAlES Connected Community Rail Partnership (SWWC CRP) is proud to be working with Stena line to host a special heritage event celebrating the history of Fishguard Harbour railway and port.

The event, supported by the community-run heritage centre Ein Hanes – Our History, will take place on the afternoon of Saturday, October 18 at the Stena Line ferry terminal.

The celebration will showcase the stories, people and history that made Fishguard Harbour such an important gateway to Ireland and America. Visitors can arrive by train from Fishguard & Goodwick and beyond, making the journey part of the experience. With parking at the terminal limited, attendees are encouraged to travel by rail, on foot, by bike, or through car sharing.

Philip Merchant, Project Officer at SWWC CRP, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the visionaries who brought the railway to West Wales, and the building of a significant port that transformed connections across the Irish Sea and beyond.”

A spokesperson for Stena Line added: “Stena Line is proud to support this heritage event at Fishguard Harbour. Preserving shared history and connecting communities is at the heart of what we do, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to explore the rich legacy of rail travel at the harbour.”

The event forms part of Railway 200, a nationwide programme marking 200 years of the modern railway. The year-long campaign celebrates the achievements of rail while inspiring future generations to consider careers in the industry.

The afternoon will feature:

• A new exhibition exploring the history of the harbour and railway

• Model railway displays highlighting West Wales layouts

• Live theatre performances with actors in Edwardian costume

• Music from local performers

• Short five-minute story slots where residents can share their memories

• Prizes for the best visitor costumes

The event is free to attend, funded by Transport for Wales (TfW) and Great

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Western Railway. Stalls will also offer local history books, vintage sweets and traditional apothecary items, while refreshments will be available in a volunteer-run café, with donations supporting local causes.

Dr Louise Moon, TfW’s Railway 200 Programme Lead, said: “This year’s celebrations have highlighted the important role railways play across Wales and the Borders. It is wonderful to see Fishguard Harbour’s unique story being recognised and shared with the community.”

The event runs from 12:30pm to 4:30pm. Visitors are encouraged to join the 12:43 service from Fishguard & Goodwick station and return on the 4:00pm train from Fishguard Harbour. For further information, or to share historical photographs or memorabilia, email: philip.merchant@southwestwales. co

Carmarthen man to face Crown Court over rape and abuse charges

A CARMARTHEN man has appeared in court accused of a catalogue of serious offences, including rape, strangulation, and coercive control.

John Darker, aged 68, of Bron y Dre, Llangunnor, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Sept 25). The charges relate to incidents in Carmarthen on September 23, 2025, as well as an alleged pattern of controlling behaviour spanning

several months.

Darker faces the following charges:

• Rape of a woman over 16 under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

• Intentional strangulation, contrary to the Serious Crime Act 2015.

• False imprisonment, alleged to have unlawfully detained the complainant against her will.

• Threats to kill, under the Offences

Against the Person Act 1861.

• Assault by beating, contrary to the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

• Engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship between December 2024 and September 2025.

The complainant in the case is protected by lifelong anonymity. No pleas were entered at the first hearing. Magistrates sent the case to

Swansea Crown Court for a Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 9:00am. The court certified that a full bail argument was heard. Darker was initially remanded in custody pending a prosecution appeal lodged the same afternoon. He is now on conditional bail, with restrictions including residence at his home address and not contacting the complainant.

Ammanford man sentenced for assault at Pembrokeshire hotel

AN AMMANFORD man has been ordered to carry out unpaid work and pay £1,000 in compensation after admitting an assault which caused actual bodily harm at a hotel in north Pembrokeshire.

Robert House, aged 61, of 21 Lotwen Road, Capel Hendre, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 24).

The court heard that on April 18 this year, at Llwyngwair Manor near Newport, House assaulted Francis Burson, causing him actual bodily harm.

Community order and compensation House indicated a guilty plea and was sentenced to a community order,

supervised by Llanelli Magistrates’ Court, running until September 23, 2026.

As part of the order, he must:

• Complete up to 10 rehabilitation activity days.

• Undertake 220 hours of unpaid work within 12 months.

He was also ordered to pay £1,000 compensation to the victim, £85 in prosecution costs, and a £114 surcharge. Payments are to be made in monthly instalments of £70 starting on October 22.

The bench of Mr S Weatherall, Ms J Morgan and Dr G Clissold took his guilty plea into account when sentencing.

Eglwyswrw man sentenced for assault and obstructing police

AN EGlWYSWRW man has been handed a community order after admitting assaulting a woman and obstructing a police officer.

Richard Lewis, aged 36, of 6 Maes Hafren, Eglwyswrw, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Sept 24).

The court heard that on June 28 this year Lewis assaulted a female by beating her at his home address. When officers attended, he wilfully obstructed PC 255 Davies in the execution of his duty.Lewis pleaded guilty to both charges.

COMMuNiTY ORDER iMPOSED

Magistrates imposed a community order running until September 23, 2026, supervised by Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

AS PART OF THE ORDER, lEWiS MuST:

• Abstain from alcohol for 90 days, with electronic monitoring until December 22, 2025.

• Remain at his home between 5:00pm and midnight until September 26, 2025, while monitoring equipment is

fitted.

• Complete up to 20 rehabilitation activity days.

• Carry out 80 hours of unpaid work within 12 months.

He was also ordered to pay £85 costs to the Crown Prosecution Service and a £114 surcharge, payable in £50 monthly instalments from October 22.

NO RESTRAiNiNG ORDER

The court was told no application was made for a restraining order, and a victim personal statement was not filed. Compensation was not ordered because the complainant did not support the case.

The bench, consisting of Mr S Weatherall, Ms J Morgan and Dr G Clissold, took Lewis’s guilty plea into account when sentencing.

Pembrokeshire entrepreneur wins top Times award

A YO u NG businesswoman from Newport has been named The Times Young Founder of the Year after turning a £300 student side project into one of the u K’s fastestgrowing beauty brands.

Lucie Macleod, founder of the TikTok-famous haircare company Hair Syrup, received the award at The Sunday Times 100 Awards Ceremony held at the British Museum on Friday (Sept 25).

F ROM CONSERVATORY TO H i GH STREET

Macleod started the business aged 21 while studying English Literature, mixing hair oils in her parents’ conservatory after struggling with bleach damage and breakage.

Inspired by seeing pre-wash oil treatments used on a holiday in Thailand, she created her own blend

from ingredients bought at local health food shops.

Her videos demonstrating the products quickly went viral on TikTok, drawing hundreds of thousands of views and creating demand that soon outgrew her home setup.

R AP i D GROWTH

Hair Syrup has since become the UK’s fastest-growing beauty brand

of 2025, achieving £5m in revenue last year and securing listings with Boots, ASOS, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and TikTok Shop.

Earlier this year it was ranked 13th in the Sunday Times 100 index of Britain’s fastest-growing private companies and second overall in Wales. Forecasts suggest turnover will reach £6.5m in 2026, with expansion already under way in Scandinavia following a deal with EU retailer Lyko.

j u DGES ’ PRA i SE

The award was presented by Gymshark founder Ben Francis and Times Business Editor Jon Yeomans, who praised Macleod’s “remarkable journey from a conservatory in Pembrokeshire to leading one of the UK’s fastest-growing consumer brands.”

Judges noted her resilience in pushing forward despite being rejected by the BBC’s Dragon’s Den last year.

l u C i E ’ S REACT i ON

Speaking after receiving the award, Macleod said: “When I started Hair Syrup with just £300, I never imagined it would grow into the UK’s fastest-growing beauty brand.

“This recognition isn’t just for me, but for the team, community and customers who have supported us from day one. I hope my story shows other young entrepreneurs that you don’t need a huge investment to build something extraordinary.”

(Photo: Hair Syrup)

Nurses demand action as RCN launches manifesto ahead of Senedd election

THE Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Wales has launched a manifesto ahead of the 2026 Senedd election, calling on all political parties to put nursing and patient care at the heart of their programmes.

The document, titled Stronger Nursing, Stronger Nation, sets out four urgent priorities: safe staffing legislation across all care settings, fair and competitive pay, access to professional development, and a genuine voice for nurses in decisionmaking.

Drawing on member surveys and frontline experience, the RCN warns that corridor care, staff burnout and low morale threaten the future of the Welsh NHS. Nurses say that without immediate action, the system will struggle to deliver safe and sustainable services.

One senior nurse said: “We love what we do. We just want the chance to do it to the highest standard. But without the resources we need, we’re being asked to deliver world-class care with one hand tied behind our backs.”

A student nurse added: “There needs to be better financial support for student nurses and those returning to practice. We’re being set up to fail before we even start.”

The manifesto sets out a timetable for reform. Within 50 days of taking office, the next Welsh Government should begin implementing urgent

measures to protect nursing and safeguard patient care. Within six months, the RCN expects meaningful progress, and within four years, a reformed health and care system.

Helen Whyley, Executive Director of RCN Wales, said: “This is a defining moment for health and care in Wales. The recommendations we have set out are evidence-based and practical. Anything less than decisive action is a risk Wales cannot afford.”

The RCN says the wellbeing and empowerment of nursing staff must be treated as a cornerstone of health policy. With the election approaching, the union is urging all parties to engage seriously with its proposals.

“This is more than a policy document,” Ms Whyley added. “It is a direct appeal from the nursing workforce to those aspiring to be in power: support us, or risk losing us.”

Pennar Community School honoured with British Council International School Award

PENNAR Community School has been recognised with the British Council’s prestigious international School Award at Foundation level, celebrating its work to bring the wider world into the classroom.

The award highlights schools that excel in international education, helping pupils develop the cultural awareness and global skills needed in today’s world.

CulTuRAl liNKS WiTH FRANCE

Over the past two academic years, Pennar pupils have enjoyed a unique learning journey that reached far beyond their local community. Year 5 pupils visited Sanguinet in France, joining other Pembrokeshire schools for a week of cultural exchange.

Children visited French schools, took part in lessons to improve their language skills, and explored the town’s history. A return visit to Pembrokeshire followed, reuniting the children and allowing French pupils to discover local landmarks

including Pembroke Castle, as well as meeting the Mayor of Neyland and touring the county council’s education department.

‘AN ExCiTiNG ACHiEVEMENT’

Headteacher Damon McGarvie, along with teachers Victoria Boyle and Nicola Murray, said:

“Receiving the International Foundation Award is such an exciting achievement, and we’re all incredibly proud. It reflects the hard work, passion and dedication of everyone involved. The smiles on the children’s faces, the laughter we shared, and the invaluable experiences gained over the last two years make it all worthwhile.”

Shannon West, Head of UK Schools for the British Council, praised Pennar’s success:

“Pennar’s international work has earned well-deserved recognition with the British Council International School Award. The school’s commitment to embedding internationalism is enriching education and supporting globally aware young people.”

GlOBAl RECOGNiTiON

Since its launch in 1999, more than

6,000 UK schools have achieved the International School Award, which is now recognised worldwide, including in countries such as Greece, India and Nigeria.

The scheme encourages schools to build international partnerships, develop global themes across the curriculum, and involve the wider community in year-round international activities.

Children of Horizon victims ‘deserve support’

A FORMER sub-postmaster wrongly convicted in the Horizon scandal says the children of those affected should receive grants to rebuild their futures.

Tim Brentnall, from Roch, was convicted in 2010 after a £22,500 shortfall was wrongly logged at his branch. His conviction was quashed in 2021.

Mr Brentnall, who now has a 12-yearold daughter and a 15-month-old son, said: “Had I been allowed to run my business properly, I’d have been able to

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

pay for a good education for my children. Many sons and daughters of subpostmasters have lost out through no fault of their own. We need bursaries or grants to put that right.”

CAll FOR RESTORATiVE juSTiCE

He has met with the Restorative

Justice Council as part of its Horizon Project, arguing that true justice must go further than financial settlements. Restorative justice involves bringing victims, offenders and communities together to acknowledge harm and find ways to repair it.

“If something could be created that lets those responsible help rebuild lives while giving families a chance to move forward, that can only be positive,” he said.

COMPENSATiON BATTlE

Mr Brentnall submitted a claim for full redress but was offered less than 17% of the sum. He is resubmitting the claim, but says many former postmasters are too tired or unwell to keep fighting.

“People are accepting low offers just to draw a line under it. That in itself is another scandal,” he said.

The Post Office said it “apologised unreservedly” to victims and was committed to paying redress as quickly as possible.

More than 1,100 sexual offences reported in Pembrokeshire

MORE than 1,100 sexual offences have been reported in Pembrokeshire over the past three years, new figures show.

Statistics obtained by Sexual Abuse Compensation Advice reveal that 1,195 offences were recorded in the county between 2022 and 2025.

Across the Dyfed-Powys Police area, 1,666 sexual offences were recorded in 2024/25 alone, compared with 1,495 in 2023/24 and 1,751 in 2022/23.

Campaigners say the figures highlight an ongoing rise in reporting, but warn the majority of victims are still not coming forward.

CARMARTHENSHiRE RECORDS

HiGHEST FiGuRES

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Carmarthenshire saw the highest number of offences across the force area, with 1,537 cases recorded since 2022. Pembrokeshire was next with 1,195, followed by Powys (1,131) and Ceredigion (977).

The most common offences include sexual assault on females (694 cases) and rape of females aged 16 and over (636 cases). Other recorded crimes include sexual assaults on children, exposure, voyeurism and sexual communication with children.

SuRViVORS CAll FOR CHANGE

Policy Advisor at The Survivors Trust, Lucy Duckworth, said many victims are reluctant to report offences due to fear of retraumatisation.

“Of the 15% of offences that are reported, only 1.6% will result in a prosecution,” she said talking about the national figures. She added: “This isn’t a system that needs reforming, but one that simply isn’t working and isn’t delivering for victims.”

She also called for a cultural shift to tackle what she described as a “victimblaming culture.”

POliCE RESPONSE

Detective Superintendent Anthony Evans, force lead for Rape and Serious Sexual Offences, told The Herald:

“Dyfed-Powys Police recognises the physical and psychological harm that rape and sexual offences inflict on individuals and the wider community.

“One of our priorities as a force is to provide a compassionate response to victims of rape and serious sexual assault, and the relentless pursuit of offenders.

“We work closely with partner agencies, the Office for the Police and Crime Commissioner, and third sector agencies to provide a robust and coordinated victim-centred response to crimes of this nature.

“We encourage anyone who is a victim of rape or sexual assault to come forward and report these crimes to us. We have specially trained officers and partners who are ready to offer the support needed, as we seek to bring offenders to justice.”

PROSECuTiONS AND COMPENSATiON

The figures come as the Crown Prosecution Service faces growing criticism over abandoned rape prosecutions, which have risen nationally from 160 in 2020/21 to 608 in 2024/25. Meanwhile, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority reported 14,665 applications for sexual assault or abuse compensation in 2024/25, up from 10,309 two years earlier. But the number of settled claims and payouts fell sharply, from 5,703 claims worth £65.2 million in 2022/23 to just 2,217 claims worth £23.4 million in 2024/25.

Pembrokeshire apprentice shortlisted for national training award

A PEMBROKESHiRE COllEGE apprentice has been named among the finalists in this year’s prestigious Engineering Construction industry (ECi) Training & Development Awards.

Henry Nelson, who is completing his apprenticeship with Altrad Engineering, has been shortlisted in the New Entrant Award category. The announcement places him among 26 individuals, companies and training providers recognised across nine categories, selected from more than 100 nominations.

The awards, now in their 13th year, are organised by the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) and will take place at Glaziers Hall, London, on Thursday 6 November. The event brings together industry leaders and rising stars to celebrate excellence in training and development.

On hearing the news, Henry said:

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“It’s such a privilege to be nominated for this award. I’ve really enjoyed my time as an ECITB scholar and have learnt so much that has been incredibly useful at the start of my apprenticeship.”

The ceremony will be hosted by Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, a well-known science communicator, while the Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern, Minister for Skills, will also be in attendance.

Andrew Hockey, ECITB Chief Executive, said: “The standard of nominees was again incredibly high, showcasing the great things happening in training and development across the industry. Our judges now face the tough job of selecting the winners, and we are grateful to our sponsors for helping to make this a special night.”

Pennar pupils celebrate new trim trail after major fundraising drive

CHilDREN, staff and governors at Pennar Community School gathered on Monday (Sept 22) to mark the official opening of the school’s brand-new trim trail.

The project was made possible through the efforts of the school’s Parent Teacher Association, the Friends of

Pennar (FOPS), who led an ambitious year-long fundraising campaign.

Events included a whole-school Easter Bonnet sponsored walk, which alone raised £12,000. Alongside raising money, FOPS organised a team of volunteers who helped prepare and clear the site, ensuring the project could

run smoothly.

Headteacher Mr McGarvie said: “We are very grateful for the support and efforts of the Friends of Pennar in providing such a fantastic resource for the children. We are also thankful for the support given from the families and local businesses for their generosity.”

The school community has extended thanks to everyone who contributed time, energy and donations, making the new facility a reality for pupils at Pennar Community School.

Photos: Martin Cavaney

Pembrokeshire National Trust Association awards funding

THREE National Trust sites in Pembrokeshire are set to benefit from funds raised by the local Pembrokeshire National Trust Association (PNTA).

Little Milford, the Tudor Merchant’s House in Tenby, and the Southwood Estate near Newgale will receive a share of £3,000 raised by association members through events and activities.

Chairman Jane Mason said: “Thanks to our local Association members for raising £3,000 through our events and activities, all Pembrokeshire residents will benefit. The money will fund replacement hurdles in the garden at the Tudor Merchant’s House, footpath improvements at Little Milford woods, and new benches and paths at Southwood.”

The National Trust’s Lead Ranger in North Pembrokeshire, Alys Chapman, explained how the Southwood Estate funding will be used: “Thanks to the

very generous donation from PNTA, we are planning improvements to the Southwood footpath network. We’ve known for a little while that one of the things we are lacking on the estate is any short walking routes. To try and rectify this, we are planning to install two new sections of path, each about 0.5 km in length. Linking these with existing routes will create two new loops of around 1.1 km and 2 km. We hope this will make our little corner of Pembrokeshire more accessible and encourage more people to come and enjoy Southwood. We aim to have this up and running by spring 2026.”

The PNTA has more than 230 members across the county. Membership is open to everyone and does not require National Trust membership. The programme of monthly winter talks is now under way, with the next event scheduled for Thursday, November 6, at 2:30pm in Crundale Village Hall, Haverfordwest.

Plans for more affordable housing in Pembrokeshire could be agreed soon

PEMBROKESHiRE council could have 10 more affordable homes in its housing stock within the year if a call before senior members is backed next week.

market by a contractor/developer for a fixed price on the basis of a single conveyancing contract.

“The OTS opportunity would provide the council with up to 10 properties built to a modern specification which are fossil fuel free and benefit from PV panels and air source heat pumps.

“The site will provide the opportunity for a mix of social and intermediate rent housing.”

It added: “Currently there is no match funding grant assigned to this potential acquisition however enquiries have been made with both the Social Housing Grant (SHG) and Transitional Accommodation Capital Programme (TACP) teams.

“If cabinet agreement is given, and subject to due diligence checks, it is hoped that acquisition of these 10 units could be completed within this financial year. Any purchase will be dependent on suitable SHG or TACP funding being secured with the match provided from the Housing Revenue Account.

“The need to provide additional affordable and social housing is a high priority for the council and if acquired, these new homes will be let at rents in line with the council’s rent policy, making the homes affordable for those in need.

It is recommended that Cabinet back the delegated decision on the purchase.

At the October meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members are asked to back the purchase of the new build homes, a mixture of two and three-bed houses, currently under construction at Rose Haven, Rosemarket; the final agreement delegated to senior officers.

This follows the backing of the purchase between 37 and 41 houses agreed at the September meeting.

A report ahead of the October meeting says: “The council has a corporate priority that aims to increase the supply of affordable and social

homes and is seeking to expand its housing stock and satisfy local housing need. These ‘off the self purchase’ opportunities would help towards both the council’s 300 new home target and also Welsh Governments 20,000 new homes target.

“In the context of housing development, an Off the Shelf purchase (OTS) consists of newly completed properties, offered on the open

At the September Cabinet meeting, members backed the acquisition of up to 16 new build housing units as an off the shelf deal at Harcourt Close, Hook, and entering into a package deal arrangement for the purchase of 21 affordable homes, along with an option for four ‘intermediate’ affordable units on land at Sandyhill, Saundersfoot.

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Milford Haven cadets honoured at presentation evening

MilFORD HAVEN SEA CADETS and Royal Marines Cadets celebrated their achievements at a special presentation evening attended by the town’s mayor, Councillor William Elliott.

The event, on September 30, formed part of the cadets’ traditional “Divisions” inspection, carried out by the Commanding Officer and, on this occasion, joined by the Mayor himself.

Following the inspection, Cllr Elliott spent time with the Junior Sea Cadets, answering questions about Milford

Haven, the role of the Town Council, and even his favourite colour.

The evening concluded with a series of presentations, with cadets awarded badges, certificates and qualifications in recognition of their hard work and dedication. Achievements included enrolment certificates, promotions, Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards, Royal Yachting Association sailing qualifications, and paddle sports awards.

Elliott said he was delighted to see the commitment of young people in the town:

“This was a wonderful evening and a real privilege to be part of. The cadets should be very proud of the effort they have put in. It is clear that the Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets provide invaluable skills, discipline and opportunities for our young people in Milford Haven.”

The Mayor has chosen the Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets as one of his three charities during his year in office, making the

evening a particularly special occasion. Commanding Officer staff also congratulated the cadets on their achievements and thanked families, volunteers and supporters for their continued encouragement.

The event ended with warm applause for all those receiving awards, highlighting the strength and spirit of the cadet community in Milford Haven.

Mayor Cllr William Elliott presenting certificates and awards to Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets (Pics: Herald).

Poverty report calls for ‘words to action’ in Pembrokeshire

CiTiZENS Advice Pembrokeshire has launched a major new report highlighting the impact of poverty across the county and calling for practical steps to support struggling families.

The study, Words to Action, builds on earlier research and draws on the lived experiences of more than 40 local people. It identifies the high costs of the school day, spiralling household bills, and the damaging effect of poverty on physical and mental health. The report also highlights stigma and shame as issues that cut across every area of concern

SERViCE DEliVERY FAlliNG SHORT

Researchers found that services often fail to reach people in the right place at the right time, with poor communication leaving many residents unsure where to turn for help. Too much support is crisis-based, with little emphasis on prevention.

TRAiNiNG AND SuPPORT

Citizens Advice says training in budgeting, cooking and benefits awareness could help prevent people sliding deeper into hardship. Frontline workers also need more support and trauma-informed training.

Key recommendations

THE REPORT MAKES FiVE MAjOR RECOMMENDATiONS:

• Develop a ‘one-stop shop’ systems approach to simplify access to services.

• Improve communications between agencies and with the public.

• Embed kind and compassionate approaches, underpinned by trauma-informed practice.

• Promote prevention and early intervention, focusing on practical skills and benefit awareness.

• Establish a Community of Practice across agencies to share knowledge and strengthen resilience.

The findings will be presented to the Pembrokeshire Public Services Board and to the Welsh Government’s Child

Families reported that school uniforms, meals, transport and trips placed them under severe pressure.

Community of Practice.

Citizens Advice Pembrokeshire is part of the national Citizens Advice network, offering free, confidential and impartial advice to people across the county. The charity helps thousands of residents every year with issues ranging from benefits, debt and housing to employment and consumer problems.

With main offices in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock, the service works closely with local authorities, schools,

health providers and voluntary groups to make sure people get the support they need. It also campaigns on the wider issues that bring people through its doors, using local evidence to push for change at both county and national level.

Anyone in need of advice can call 01437 806070 or visit the offices at 36–38 High Street, Haverfordwest (SA61 2DA) or 38 Meyrick Street, Pembroke Dock (SA72 6UT).

Cllr

Photos:

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

Poverty

A TASTE oF AuTuMN AT THE LLANDEILo ANTIquES AND VINTAGE FAIR oN THE 4 TH oCToBER

The Antiques and Vintage Fair held in the centre of llandeilo, in the Civic Hall, always produces some interesting and sought after items .The displays found at this popular fair are both eye catching and full of interest.The next fair on Saturday 4 th October promises to be no exception, with a huge amount of 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.

You will find this gem of a fair in the heart of Llandeilo ‘s historic town. The shops provide a uniques shopping experience with many artisan shops and galleries. Close by lies the Works Antiques Centre housing some 40 dealers. It will make your antique trail complete .

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.

After such a hot summer we are now experiencing the amazing colours of autumn and the farming community reaping the benefits with a good harvest of crops and with harvest festivals

being celebrated in towns and villages across the country.We recognise this festival by the symbol of the harvest sheaf and the corn dolly .

Corn dollies are traditional figures, or symbols made from straw or corn stalks, associated with pagan harvest rituals and folk magic, particularly in European traditions. They represent

the spirit of the corn that resides in the last sheaf of the harvest, which was ritually preserved to ensure the fertility and renewal of the crops for the following year. These figures served as symbols of good luck and fertility and were often kept in homes for protection and burned at the end of the year to scatter their ashes over the fields, ensuring the next harvest.

The tradition of the corn dolly has its origins in pre-Christian Britain. At harvest the last sheaf of corn was sacrificed along with an animal, often a hare which was found amongst the crops, to the gods to ensure soil fertility for the next year. Later a model of a hare was made out of straw to represent ‘the continuity of the spirit. Eventually this evolved into the corn being plaited to represent a figure symbolising ‘the goddess of the grain‘. This became known as a ‘corn dolly’ and was usually hung in a farmhouse’s rafters till the next year.

The corn dolly was a feature of Lammas Day, which in Anglo-Saxon means the ‘Day of the loaf-mass’. Lammas was usually held between the 1st August and 1st September and was the first harvest festival of the year. The ashes of the corn dolly were then

ploughed back into the ground.

The practice of making the last sheath into a symbol of fertility continued after the introduction of Christianity. It was believed that the spirit of the corn resided in the corn fields. As the corn was cut the spirit was driven further and further back eventually taking refuge in the last remaining sheaf. When the last sheaf was finally cut , and a large hollow corn dolly was made from it , in order to give the spirit a home over the winter.

Once known by regional names like “harvest tokens” or by specific local terms, the term “corn dolly” became common in the 20th century.

In the majority of places cutting the last sheaf was seen as an honour but in some areas people were fearful of being held responsible for making the Corn Spirit homeless. To prevent being cursed with bad luck often groups of reapers would take turns in throwing their sickles at the sheaf. To be even safer sometimes the reapers would sweep their scythes back and forward across the sheaf whilst blindfolded. In this way the blame was shared.

At the next sowing the corn dolly

was returned back into the soil either by being fed to the horses, trampled into the ground or sown back into the first furrow ploughed in the spring along with the new planting.

Even though each county (and often each community within a county) of Britain followed their own harvest and ‘corn dolly’ traditions, the overriding idea was the same for all of them. The corn dolly represented the harvest cycle and the cycle of birth, death and rebirth as well as the deep rooted belief in a spirit representing fertility and nature.

In Wales to hold the last sheaf was seen as an honour. In the Welsh speaking areas it was called ‘The Harvest Mare’ or ‘the Hag’ and in English speaking communities ‘the Neck’.

In some areas of Wales the man who was chosen to bring the corn dolly to the festival had to protect it from a barrier of women throwing water and doing everything they could to prevent him getting it to safety. Often this would include stripping the man as he tried to hide the corn dolly under his clothes. If he succeeded he would be rewarded with all the beer he could drink at the feast and an

honoured seat at the harvest table. If he failed he was ‘punished’ by being seated at the foot of the table.

Sometimes if another farmer had not finished their reaping, the finished reapers would smuggle the corn dolly into his field. They would choose their fastest runner amongst them to deliver the corn dolly. If he was caught he would be tied up with straw and thrown in the nearest river.

The custom of creating a corn dolly from the last sheaf ended with the introduction of mechanised agricultural machinery during the Industrial Revolution.

Although the large corn dollies were no longer deemed necessary the regional shapes of the corn dollies did survive and the practice of making smaller corn dollies continued with the tradition handed down from generation to generation. The different shapes are incredibly varied ranging from abstract to more recognisable forms. Some examples are the Hereford lantern, Stafford knot, Suffolk horseshoe, Durham chandelier, Welsh longfen, Essex Terret, Yorkshire spiral and Oxford crown. They are made from a variety of different types of crops, again dependent on the area such as wheat, oats, rye, barley in England and Wales and rushes in Ireland. Often they are placed in houses as a good luck symbol.

Today, the craft is a cherished rural tradition, with enthusiasts creating increasingly complex designs.

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 . gardinalia , and 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

Milford Haven parents demand voice in £141m schools redevelopment

GROWiNG calls are being made for parents and the wider community in Milford Haven to have a greater say in the town’s £141.6m schools redevelopment programme.

At last week’s (Sept 25) meeting of the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Pembrokeshire’s Director of Education, Steven RichardsDownes, admitted that while the “school community” had been consulted during a feasibility study, no direct consultation had taken place with parents, families or students.

In this case “school community” referred to the headteacher, senior

leadership team and governing body of Milford Haven School — not the parents or pupils whose daily lives will be most affected by the changes.

That revelation has sparked frustration in Milford Haven, where families say they should be at the heart of shaping the future of local education.

Hubberston councillor Vivien Stoddart, who has repeatedly pressed Welsh Government over delays, told The Herald: “Surely parents and students are the most important people? Why were they not invited to contribute their views to the study?”

One parent who emailed The Herald

over the weekend following our recent story on the issue said: “How on earth can £140 million be spent — and let’s face it, probably more in the end as these things always go over budget — without talking to the people of Milford Haven? It’s our children who will have to sit in these classrooms for years to come. Parents and pupils should be asked what they actually need, not just told what’s being planned behind closed doors. If this is meant to be an investment in our community, then the community should have a voice in shaping it.”

The £141.6m scheme, approved by Cabinet in July, would deliver a new co-located primary and secondary school on the current secondary site, together with a 40-place Flying Start centre, a 36-place secondary Learning Resource Centre, and a new Welshmedium 3–11 school. Around £46.5m of the funding will come from the council’s capital programme, with the remainder expected from Welsh Government.

Although the Strategic Outline Case has already been submitted, construction cannot begin before 2027, leaving Milford Haven pupils in schools graded Condition C — poor — with fire safety work and repairs continuing as stop-gap measures.

Cllr Stoddart said the delays and lack of consultation risk undermining confidence in the project: “The progress

is a disgrace. The Welsh Government’s bureaucracy is Monty Python writ large, and now we find that families have been sidelined too. It is absolutely scandalous.”

The Herald understands further consultation will be required at the outline and full business case stages, but parents are pressing for their voices to be heard now, rather than years down the line.

Communities urged to apply for climate conversation funding

ORGANiSATiONS across Wales are being invited to apply for grant funding to host community events on climate change, with the return of the Welsh Government’s Climate Conversations Fund.

Applications for the 2025 funding round are now open to third sector groups, local government bodies, education providers, industry and business networks, and other organisations with strong community

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links. The fund will support events held beyond Wales Climate Week and up until March 2026.

This year’s Wales Climate Week will run in early November, featuring a three-day virtual conference focused on housing, transport, and agriculture and land use. The Climate Conversations Fund allows communities to continue

those discussions at a local level, ensuring voices from across Wales are included.

Since its launch in 2022, the Fund has supported 111 community events and engaged more than 6,000 people in conversations about climate change.

DEPuTY FiRST MiNiSTER CAllS FOR VOiCES TO BE HEARD

Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-

Davies said: “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing Wales, and the next five to ten years will be absolutely critical. We are already seeing the impact in wetter winters, hotter summers, and more unpredictable weather.

“That’s why it’s so important we hear directly from people across Wales. Your experiences, ideas and concerns will be vital in helping to shape our response. Every voice matters.”

HOW TO APPlY

Organisations can apply for funding to cover costs of running, promoting, and facilitating local climate conversation events. Priority will be given to projects that engage marginalised groups, including people excluded due to race, disability, age, gender, financial status, or other factors.

Applications close on October 24, or earlier if capacity is reached, and early submissions are encouraged.

Individuals unable to attend events will also be able to share their views through a public feedback form on the Climate Action Wales website.

For full details and to apply, visit: https://www.climateaction.gov.wales/ wales-climate-week/

Says community should have a say on new schools: Cllr Viv Stoddart

Tom Sinclair

Pembrokeshire Super Whippy helps Caer Elen pupils raise funds

PuPilS at Ysgol Caer Elen have been treated to a special fundraising boost thanks to Pembrokeshire Super Whippy.

On Thursday (Sept 25), Martin McGeown, who runs the well-known ice cream business, joined staff and pupils at the Haverfordwest school to serve up 99s in support of new playground equipment.

Queues quickly formed as children and staff enjoyed a cone in the sunshine, with every penny raised going directly towards improving resources in the school yard.

A spokesperson for Ysgol Caer Elen said: “We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mr McGeown and his family for their generosity and support. The money raised will help us provide new facilities for pupils to enjoy during break times.”

Pembrokeshire Super Whippy, which has become a familiar sight at local events and community fundraisers across the county, said it was delighted to support the school’s efforts.

Haverfordwest Samaritans branch under threat, says local Senedd member

PEMBROKESHiRE Samaritans, who have been supporting people in crisis since 1976, face uncertainty over the future of their Haverfordwest office.

The charity’s volunteers provide a vital listening ear to those going through difficult times, often offering a lifeline to people when they need it most. Concerns have now been raised that the branch may not be able to continue operating as it has done for nearly five decades.

Welsh Conservative Senedd Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire, Paul Davies, said: “Pembrokeshire Samaritans do a fantastic job supporting people –and have done so since 1976. Their

volunteers spend a great deal of time listening to people and helping them through difficult times. Their work is a lifeline for some people and it’s vital that the Haverfordwest office remains open so they can continue their important work.”

The Herald understands that local campaigners are calling for more community and financial support to secure the future of the branch.

Samaritans is best known for its free and confidential 24/7 helpline on 116 123, but the Haverfordwest office has long provided face-to-face support and training for volunteers across Pembrokeshire.

Update on Withyhedge landfill site months after reopening

THERE have been no fresh complaints about landfill odours at the contentious Withyhedge landfill site near Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire councillors heard.

An Incident Management Team (IMT), comprising of Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council, Public Health Wales and Hywel Dda University Health Board was set up in February 2024 in response to complaints going back to October 2023 about the odour issues at Withyhedge Landfill.

The landfill closed temporarily in May last year, reopening on January 6 when all compliance required by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) was said to be complete.

An update of the situation was received at the September meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s services overview and scrutiny committee

The matter of ongoing community concerns related to activities arising from the Withyhedge Landfill site, specifically odour and air quality impacts

on health is currently a standing item on the agenda for the committee following a decision at full council.

A report for members said: “Air quality monitoring of Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) levels continue at the static monitoring station located at Spittal School. We are sent weekly monitoring reports from the station which enable us to monitor the odour exceedances which if found to be attributable to the site will allow interventions and request for explanations of issues and potentially would also allow us to consider standing up the multi-agency incident arrangements again. This monitoring is set to continue until April 2026.”

It added: “Assessment of the weekly reports shows that there have been only isolated incidents where this odour threshold has been exceeded on July 14 and 15. Due to wind direction it is believed these are from other potential odour sources in the area.

“We would view this as positive as this clearly indicates that the monitor is working but that even with other potential sources in the area the overall background level of H2S is low. We have not received any further

complaints concerning landfill odours since the last update earlier this year in June.”

It also said an application to vary the permit at Withyhedge Landfill is currently being determined by NRW. Further consultation will take place once a draft decision has been completed.

Members agreed to note the content of the report, and the continued low levels of H2S being monitored at the station and that there have been no complaints since the last update.

Last October, Pembrokeshire County Council went to court to seek an interim injunction against operators RML after asking it to give a legally binding undertaking to stop the odour coming from Withyhedge Landfill, near Haverfordwest.

The legal action came after months of residents complaining of foul odours and potentially harmful gasses coming from the landfill site.

A circuit judge found that the tip was causing nuisance, but believed that the council had gone about its application in the wrong way, refusing to grant an interim injunction.

Pembroke Port crane naming contest draws huge response

THE PORT of Milford Haven says it has been overwhelmed by the public’s creativity after running a competition to name a crane at Pembroke Port.

The contest, organised in partnership with Davies Crane Hire Ltd, attracted a flood of entries ranging from the witty to the imaginative.

A judging panel made up of Jim Baxter, Jo’Hanna O’Shea, Sharon Adams and David Stubbins met this week to review the suggestions. After shortlisting the best entries, they selected a winner.

The Port has confirmed the chosen name will be unveiled when the crane is sign-written next month.

A spokesperson said: “We want to thank everyone who took the time to enter – the names were fantastic and showed just how much local enthusiasm there is for this project. We can’t wait to share the winning entry.”

The judging panel even marked the occasion with a playful nod to The Beatles, recreating the famous Abbey Road crossing in front of the crane – a light-hearted moment to celebrate the community spirit behind the competition.

Bridge Meadow car park and paths upgraded in community partnership

WORKS to improve car parks and footpaths near Bridge Meadow Stadium have been completed as part of Pembrokeshire County Council’s wider regeneration programme in Haverfordwest.

Delivered under the Haverfordwest

Footbridge and Western Quayside Phase 2 contract, the upgrades have created additional parking for Haverfordwest County AFC and visitors to the nearby Cleddau Reaches Walk. The connecting path has also been resurfaced to make the area more

accessible.

The work was carried out by principal contractor Walters in partnership with the Bridge Meadow Haverfordwest Trust, a charity managed by Haverfordwest Town Council.

Councillor Thomas Tudor, county councillor for Castle Ward, welcomed the initiative. He said: “This community partnership approach with Walters and the Bridge Meadow Haverfordwest Trust to resurface and extend part of the car park will be greatly appreciated by users of Haverfordwest County AFC clubhouse and visitors to the popular Cleddau Reaches walk. Excellent news all round.”

Deputy leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, Paul Miller, added: “These community benefits form part of Pembrokeshire County Council’s wider regeneration programme, ensuring that major projects deliver not only new infrastructure but also lasting social, environmental and economic value for residents and visitors alike.”

Other contributions from the scheme include new signage for the Cleddau Reaches Walk, relocating a bin store from the library site to Havergardd Community Garden, and sponsoring Haverfordwest High VC School’s rugby

tour to South Africa.

Thomas Morris, project manager for Walters, said: “We are really pleased to be able to support the local community with these improvements alongside our contributions to Haverfordwest High VC School’s rugby tour to South Africa. As a proud local Welsh company, we understand the importance of giving back to the communities we work in. We are also pleased to be able to say that the footbridge was designed, fabricated and built in Wales and hope that it’s something the community will be proud of for years to come.”

Councillor Roy Thomas, vicechairman of the Bridge Meadow Haverfordwest Trust, said: “The laying of the new stone on the car park and pathway has been very welcome, benefitting not only patrons of Haverfordwest County AFC but also the many people who park here to enjoy the Bridge Meadow area as a whole.”

Haverfordwest Town Council, sole trustee of the Trust, has invited feedback from users of Bridge Meadow to help ensure the site continues to provide a welcoming recreational space.

Enquiries and comments can be sent to: townclerk@haverfordwesttown. co.uk.

From isolation to inspiration: VR brings new hope to care in Wales

Tom Sinclair editor@herald.email

patient care.

As part of the Bevan Exemplar programme, Sarah Beauclerk, Director

of Vere Experiences CIC, has been leading two pioneering projects in collaboration with Hywel Dda University

Health Board and Pembrokeshire County Council.

SuPPORTiNG OlDER PEOPlE

The VR Inclusive Mental Health Interventions (VRIMHI) project was set up with the Pembrokeshire Older Adult Community Mental Health Team to help older people struggling with low mood. Sessions were designed to improve wellbeing, reduce relapses and provide a “safe space” for patients.

Originally planned as home visits, the scheme shifted to group sessions during Mental Health Awareness Week – proving so successful that they continue every fortnight, alongside home visits for those unable to attend.

Three years on, VRIMHI is still running. Evaluation shows participants report an average mood improvement of nearly three points on a ten-point scale, with longer-term benefits also recorded. One patient described it as “my safe space,” while staff said demand for lighter-touch follow-up sessions is growing.

CONNECTiNG CARE HOMES

The Connecting Realities project brought VR into local care homes. Feedback showed that 80% of residents experienced mood improvement, with some effects lasting long after the sessions. Staff noted that the visits lifted the atmosphere of entire living rooms.

One resident, usually withdrawn,

surprised staff by singing Wonderful World during a session, which a supporter described as a “miraculous reaction.”

The team now coordinate nearly 50 headsets across wards, community care and palliative services. In one case, a lifelong Liverpool FC fan was able to tour Anfield virtually just before she passed away – a powerful memory for her and her carer.

BACKED BY THE BEVAN ExEMPlAR

Bevan Exemplar status gave the projects credibility and opened doors at health board and council level. Mentors including Mark Briggs (Cardiff and Vale UHB) and Mark Griffiths (Public Health Wales) provided vital support.

Sarah is now working with Public Health Wales on CarerVR, a new project using first-person VR to help unpaid carers build skills and reduce injury risks. The scheme is already being rolled out locally, with interest from care homes and plans to pilot VR booths in GP surgeries.

The projects have not only improved outcomes for patients but also boosted staff morale, strengthening relationships between carers, residents and families.

Sarah said that the key lesson for future innovators is simple: “Keep your reason at the heart of what you do, and take it step by step. If you hold on to your inspiration, you can overcome challenges and create real change.”

ViRTuAl REAliTY is being used in Pembrokeshire and across west Wales to combat loneliness, lift mood and improve

First Minister Eluned Morgan officially opens Narberth Food Festival

THE 2025 Narberth Food Festival was officially on Saturday, (Sept 27) by First Minister Eluned Morgan, who cut the ceremonial ribbon to declare the weekend’s festivities open.

CElEBRiTY CHEF AND GO COMPARE STAR

One of the festival’s biggest draws is Wynne Evans — the opera singer best known as the face of the Go Compare adverts and winner of Celebrity MasterChef in 2023. Evans is hosting cooking demonstrations across the weekend, showcasing Welsh produce and entertaining audiences with his trademark humour and culinary flair.

A RiCH MENu OF STAllS AND

DEMOS

Visitors to Narberth will find more than 150 stalls and exhibitors spread across the indoor and outdoor areas. local and Welsh producers taking part include little Black Hen, Snowdonia Cheese, Good & Proper Brownies, Pembrokeshire Cheesecake Company, Spring Hollow Vineyard, The Fudge Foundry, Pembrokeshire Cider, The Baker’s Pig, Wickedly Welsh Chocolate, Still Wild, Gilly’s Coffee, Marcela Mexican Cuisine and Reeves BBq, among many others.

Alongside the bustling stalls, the festival features its traditional “Food Theatre” demo tent, where chefs share techniques and

producers run “Talk & Taste” sessions, giving festivalgoers the chance to sample and learn.

ENTERTAiNMENT AND FAMilY FuN

The festival is not just about food. Music stages will host local performers throughout the weekend, from folk and acoustic acts to contemporary bands. Children’s activities, circus skills workshops, face painting and street performers add to the family-friendly atmosphere.

in previous years, schoolchildren have joined in workshops ranging from sausage-making with Andrew Rees Butchers to seaweed foraging with Câr y Môr, cake

decorating and chocolate making.

MilESTONE YEAR

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the volunteer-run festival, which has twice won the Gold Award for Best Event in the Pembrokeshire Tourism Awards. Organisers say they are proud of the festival’s reputation and its role in celebrating the very best of Welsh food and drink.

As the weekend unfolds, crowds are expected to flock to popular stalls, queue for Evans’s demonstrations and enjoy a lively celebration of Pembrokeshire’s food culture in the heart of Narberth.

Crowds return for Day 2 of Narberth Food Festival

Music, food and family fun bring the weekend to a close

THE SECOND day of the Narberth Food Festival (Sunday, September 28) saw another strong turnout as families and visitors flocked to enjoy the closing day of the town’s flagship event.

The festival site was filled with live music, children’s entertainment, and the aromas of street food and artisan produce, bringing a carnival atmosphere to Narberth.

STREET PERFORMERS AND FAMilY ENTERTAiNMENT

Stilt walkers, bubble displays and circus skills performers kept younger visitors entertained, while face painting and craft activities ensured the festival’s familyfriendly appeal. Crowds gathered to watch jugglers, musicians and street entertainers, adding colour and energy to the market stalls.

FOOD AND DRiNK HiGHliGHTS

Local and regional producers once again took centre stage, with stalls offering cheeses, breads, patisserie, charcuterie, curries and sweet treats. Artisan drinks were also popular, with distillers and cider-makers showcasing the best

of Welsh produce. Demonstrations in the Food Theatre included appearances from chefs and producers, giving audiences tips and tasters throughout the day.

liVE

MuSiC AND ATMOSPHERE

The entertainment tent drew large audiences with performances from local musicians, providing a lively soundtrack to the day. Families gathered around long tables to enjoy their food, soaking up the festival’s relaxed community spirit.

A SuCCESSFul WEEKEND

Organisers said they were delighted with the turnout across both days, with thousands of visitors attending over the weekend. The event, now in its 25th year, has become a staple in the Pembrokeshire calendar and continues to showcase the very best of local produce and culture.

The festival committee thanked the volunteers, performers, producers and visitors who made the weekend a success, and promised to build on the event’s strong reputation in years to come.

Photos by Martin Cavaney

WHEN i watched the trailer for Monster: The Ed Gein Story, one thought kept tugging at me: this is less about jolting us with gore and more about dragging us, unsettled, into the shadowed space between humanity and horror. From Ryan Murphy and ian Brennan, the newest installment in the Monster anthology lands on October 3, and it promises to probe the ugly roots of Ed Gein’s psyche rather than simply reenact his savagery. Charlie Hunnam takes on the title role, and early glimpses suggest he’s shedding any caricature of “monster” to inhabit someone fractured, haunted, and quietly menacing. The central question seems to be: are monsters born or made? Here, the show appears to lean into the idea that in Gein’s case, the answer is both.

Where past true-crime dramatizations sometimes fall into sensationalism, this one wants to

be more intimate, more corrosive. The trailer teases a chilling voiceover from Hitchcock (played by Tom Hollander), shots of a farmhouse graveyard in ruin, and a central image of Gein breaking the fourth wall: “You’re the one who can’t look away.” There’s a deliberate, almost theatrical framing to the horror — an invitation to peer deeper, to see not just what he did, but how and why he became the kind of mind capable of it. In interviews, the creators stress that the show will be “human, tender, unflinching,” focused more on who Ed was being than solely on what he did.

That said, there are risks.

The marketing already courts distortion: shots of Hunnam stripped bare, sculpted, pushing a version of Gein that teeters between horrifying and strangely attractive could blur the line between revulsion and glamor. And leaning too far into metaphor risks misrepresenting real suffering by aestheticizing

tragedy. The very ambition of marrying psychological depth with grotesque crime scenes could either elevate or undermine the narrative. If the show errs, it may be in letting myth overtake the man. Still, there’s something compelling in the juxtaposition — the calm rural backdrop, the sudden jolt of horror, the mother’s shadow looming over her son. Laurie Metcalf plays Augusta Gein, a figure already essential to the narrative, and the tension between mother and child seems likely to be the emotional core of the series. The casting of Hitchcock and his wife Alma Reville adds an extra layer: their presence hints that the show will interrogate cultural reflexes to horror as well. Gein’s crimes famously inspired Psycho and Texas Chain Saw Massacre, and here we may see that lineage explored not just as a footnote, but as part of the very texture of the story.

If Monster: The Ed Gein Story succeeds, it will be because it keeps the moral ambiguity alive, because it lets us stare unflinchingly into the abyss without pretending there is comfort to be found there. I’m hopeful it will be a difficult watch — not indulgently cruel, but rigorously brave — and that when the credits roll I’ll be left unsettled, disturbed, and unwilling to look away.

CliCk to

CliCk to

FROM the moment Good Boy begins, you’re disarmed by the fact that its hero is a dog—and not just any dog, but Indy, whose cautious gaze becomes your own window into a creeping dread. He and his human companion, Todd, relocate to a long-vacant country home in hopes of fresh beginnings, yet from their first night under that ominous roof, indy senses something deeply wrong. Old hallways echo with silence, corners hold shifting shadows, and a quiet menace stirs just beyond what human eyes can see.

What makes Good Boy so arresting is how it forces us into a position notoriously reserved for animals: the invisible narrator. The house’s malevolence is incrementally revealed, not through exposition, but through sight, sound, and nuance—Indy’s whine in the dark, his alert posture before unseen movement, the way he watches Todd drift into confusion. The humans behave understandably—confounded,

frustrated, frightened—but our true alignment remains with a creature whose limitations intensify the peril. He cannot speak, he cannot reason in human terms, but his loyalty and instinct become the film’s emotional core.

Truthfully, the film is lean in its runtime—barely over an hour—but it uses that brevity to its advantage. There is no fat, no indulgent subplots, only escalating tension punctuated by brief, haunting silences. Director Ben Leonberg (in his feature debut) handles that constraint well: he frequently shoots from a low vantage, framing worlds at dog height, with human figures truncated, often keeping their faces obscured so that we see the world, truly, through Indy’s eyes. When a human does move toward danger, Indy’s reaction— bark, rush, pause—is the only dialogue that matters.

There are moments when the film’s internal mythology feels under-explained. The origin of the haunting, the precise nature of the specter, the full logic behind its

hold on Todd—all of this remains opaque, which will frustrate viewers who demand complete clarity in supernatural narratives. Todd himself, though sympathetic, is sometimes stubborn in ways that slow the emotional connection; watching Indy act alone in increasingly dire circumstances is far more compelling. But perhaps that ambiguity is intentional: the unknown is part of the terror, and Indy is caught in its wake.

Emotionally, Good Boy lands far greater than one might expect. The fear is real, but so is the love: every growl, every whimper, every impassioned sprint toward Todd, you feel them. There were moments when, despite myself, I rooted harder for the dog than for any human in recent horror films. For horror fans, this is not about spectacle or shock—though there are chilling moments—it’s about intimacy, about what it feels like to live in a world where danger lurks just beyond your senses.

If Good Boy works at all, it’s because it trusts us enough to feel with Indy, and it trusts Indy enough to carry the film. It won’t answer all your questions, but it will make you feel something deep: anxiety, dread, protectiveness. As a bold, low-budget experiment, it succeeds more than many genre films twice its size. If you enter its haunted halls with an open heart and suspend the need for explanation, you may leave with a knot in your throat—and a trembling sympathy for the bravest dog you’ve ever met.

Tech and Taff

HACKERS WHO SAY “SORRY”

Well now, boyo, you don’t often hear them words together in the same sentence, do you? “Hackers” and “sorry.” But this week, that’s exactly what we’ve got.

A gang callin’ themselves Radiant broke into the systems of a nursery chain called Kido Schools. Instead of pinching passwords or boring spreadsheets, they nicked the most precious thing of all –pictures and personal details of little children. Over 8,000 of them, would you believe! Then they went full pantomime villain, threatening the nursery and even ringing up parents, demandin’ Bitcoin.

Now here’s where it gets odd. The backlash was so fierce –from parents, experts, and the public – that these so-called cyber-criminals did a U-turn. First they blurred the kids’ faces, then they deleted the lot. And to top it off, they even issued an apology: “We are sorry for hurting kids.” Aww, tidy boys now, is it? Pull the other one, boyo.

Cyber experts are sayin’ this wasn’t about findin’ their conscience at all. More like panic stations when they realised they’d crossed a moral line. You can steal bank logins, sure, but go after toddlers? Even crooks think that’s too low. And there’s no guarantee the data really is

gone – history shows hackers often claim deletion while quietly keepin’ the goods.

The real kicker? Kido never paid them a penny of the £600,000 ransom. Which means Radiant actually lost money on the job, because they’d already paid an “initial access broker” for the way in. Imagine that – the first ever hackers to rob a nursery and end up out of pocket. Boyo, if there was a Stupid Criminals Award, you’d be front-runners.

But beneath the daftness, there’s a serious lesson here. These break-ins often start with one weak link – a single compromised staff computer, sold on the dark web for a tidy fee. From there, the crooks walk straight in. If even nurseries are targets, it shows no-one’s off limits.

So what’s the takeaway for us ordinary folk? Don’t be thinkin’ your own data’s too boring for anyone to bother with. It only takes one cracked password or one dodgy click to let someone through the door. And while we can laugh at the Radiant lads for bottlin’ it, there’s nothin’ funny about thousands of families wonderin’ if their kids’ details are still out there.

Stay safe online, keep your passwords stronger than a pint of Felinfoel Double Dragon, and remember: in the world of cybercrime, there’s no such thing as “sorry.”

Apple pressing day at Carew Castle

CAREW CASTlE will be celebrating the apple harvest with a hands-on Apple Pressing Day on Saturday, October 4, from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

The event invites visitors to bring their surplus apples and transform them into fresh juice with the help of the Castle’s apple pressing team. All you need is your fruit and a container to take the juice home.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, said: “Apple Pressing Day is one of those simple joys that brings people together. Whether you’re arriving with a basket of garden apples or just keen to see the press in action,

there’s something deeply satisfying about turning fruit into something fresh and delicious. It’s a lovely way to mark the season and enjoy a few hours at the Castle.”

Entry to the event is free, although normal admission charges apply for those wishing to explore inside the Castle or Tidal Mill. The Nest Tearoom will also be open, serving drinks, cakes and light lunches.

Further details are available at www.carewcastle.com. Information about other events across the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park can be found at www. pembrokeshirecoast.wales/events.

Fishermen remembered at Milford Haven memorial

A SERViCE was held at the Fishermen’s Memorial on The Rath, Milford Haven, on Saturday (Sept 27) to remember local fishermen who lost their lives at sea.

The ceremony, overlooking the Haven waterway, brought together Sea Cadets, councillors and members of the public to pay tribute.

Mayor of Milford Haven, Cllr William Elliott, laid a floral wreath in the shape of an anchor at the foot of the memorial,

beneath the inscription: “A tribute to our fishermen.”

The Fishermen’s Memorial, depicting a fisherman in heavy weather gear straining into the wind, has become a focal point for the town’s maritime heritage and annual remembrance. The service concluded with a moment of silence as the wreaths and tributes were left at the memorial overlooking the Haven.

FROM the opening moment, Yōtei brings you into the headspace of its protagonist, Atsu, a mercenary driven by vengeance. Her family was slaughtered sixteen years prior by a group known as the Yōtei Six, and you’ll spend much of the game tracking them down, infiltrating their strongholds, and carving her retribution in blood. it’s a familiar revenge narrative, but the way the story interweaves flashbacks with playable segments lets you not just see what Atsu lost but feel it—and because the narrative frequently refocuses the stakes and reframes your motivations, i rarely felt distant from her emotional journey. There are moments that tread close to trope—masked villains, hidden agendas, the lone wanderer— but overall the writing keeps enough grounded specificity to prevent it from feeling generic.

Gameplay is where Yōtei truly distinguishes itself. Gone is the strict stance system from the earlier game: instead, Atsu wields a flexible arsenal of five melee weapons (katana, dual katana, odachi, yari, kusarigama) plus ranged weapons (bow, firearm) and tools such as smoke bombs or cloaking mist. Each weapon has strengths and counters; for example, the kusarigama is effective against shielded foes, whereas dual katanas fare better against polearms. That means combat demands constant adaptation, swapping weapons mid-battle, exploiting enemy types, timing parry windows, and chaining movement across multiple foes. It’s not just flashy — it’s really tight and deliberate, and the sense of flow when a

fight goes well is a real reward. The game doesn’t shy away from violence: the blood, the splatter, the aggression is visceral, and there’s even a stylised “Miike mode” that drenches battles in muddy color and high contrast.

The open world of Ezo (inspired by Hokkaidō) offers a variety of biomes: snowy ridges, grasslands, river valleys, forests. The world feels both large and intimate. Yōtei resists overpopulating its map with icons; instead you’re often encouraged to explore, unearth clues, question NPCs, use a spyglass, or simply follow the wind to your next objective. Many side activities return from its predecessor—bamboo strikes, shrines, hot springs, fox dens—and new ones like sumi-e painting and wolf dens add flavor. The map progressively unfolds rather than dumping everything on you at once, which helps keep the pacing measured. That said, some side quests still fall into familiar patterns: clear camps, escort missions, or fetch tasks that sometimes feel rote. But because traversal is enjoyable (horseback journeys, shifting landscapes, visual moments intertwined with nature), the journey feels less like filler and more like ambient storytelling.

Visually, Yōtei is spectacular. On a base PS5 you’ll have modes (Quality, Performance, Ray Tracing) that balance resolution and framerate, but on a PS5 Pro there’s an extra “Ray Tracing Pro” mode promising 60 fps with ray-traced lighting via upscaling tech. The result is dazzling— lighting, weather, snow, foliage, reflections—there are vistas

that stop you in your tracks. Certain close frames (particularly background NPC faces) lack fine detail compared to the sweeping beauty elsewhere, but those moments are rare blemishes in an otherwise polished visual package. The use of the DualSense pad (e.g. for forging, cooking, sumi-e strokes) adds tactile nuance, and 3D audio enhances immersion in forests, caves, and open skies.

It’s worth noting Yōtei doesn’t fully reinvent the openworld formula. Some mission structures feel familiar, and the occasional “follow-NPC” segment or climbing puzzle can feel dated. The Wolf Pack camp mechanics (where allies might bring resources) and the camping system for cooking are functional, but after a while they feel redundant compared to more direct methods of replenishing supplies or accessing vendors. Also, while stealth is available (particularly in infiltration missions), it’s less emphasized than in the first game, making the experience skew more toward aggressive play.

Overall, Ghost of Yōtei feels like a confident evolution rather than a risk-taking departure. It keeps the soul of its predecessor—samurai ethos, environmental storytelling, cinematic brushstrokes—but adds sharper combat, bolder pacing, and an earnest narrative at its core. For fans of actionadventure and samurai revenge tales, this one looks like a mustplay: emotionally grounded, mechanically rich, and visually awe-inspiring.

HOROSCOPES

more used to being one of the noble leaders, but right now you’re all about finding ways to maintain balance and bring as much good feeling as possible to all the parties involved. Combine that sincere desire with your natural charm and warmth, and you have a knockout combination. Go ahead and tackle whatever tricky situation presents itself. You can smooth things out in no time.

VIRGo

It’s all about yoga or tai chi or Pilates. In other words, you’re ready to scrap the usual gym routine for a regimen that exercises your body and your mind. The change of pace will definitely benefit all areas of your life, because you’ll not only be inspired to exercise more, but you’ll have tons of energy left over to tackle that top-to-bottom cleaning project and all those social plans that have been on the back burner recently.

LIBRA

Big things happen when you indulge in some small talk. If you’re feeling unexpectedly shy and retiring, there’s no need to force yourself to be a social animal. Instead, work on having casual conversations and low-key exchanges with the people around you. Not only will you pick up some great tips and have some enlightening encounters, but you’ll notice that your shyness has dissipated into nothing before you know it.

SCoRPIo

Stop worrying about that authority figure who’s been avoiding you whenever you ask for a meeting about that raise, promotion, or bonus. When the time is right they’ll be supportive and quite helpful. For now, keep the conversation informal, friendly, and casual. Once the subject does come up, and they’ll raise it if you give them a chance, it will go along smoothly.

SAGITTARIuS

Going beyond your own national borders is at the top of your must-do list. You’re ever so curious about different lands, customs, and ways of life. Plus you can’t wait to buy a phrase book in your new language du jour and start practicing. Make sure you have your passport up to date and are ready to take off at a moment’s notice. An unexpected travel opportunity could come your way early in the evening.

CAPRICoRN

Just because others are losing their heads doesn’t mean that you have to take the same tack. So before you start running around and yelling about how the sky is falling, take a deep breath and then take a good, long look at the situation. You might just find that things aren’t quite so bad as everyone is making them out to be. Once your cooler head prevails, others might be able to see the same thing as well.

AquARIuS Do you have big plans for the future? If yes, it’s time to start laying the framework so you can make those plans come to fruition with a minimum of frustration. This might include some organizational type stuff, like getting your files up to date, or some big picture work,

a p embrokes H ire p erspective

STARMER’S ToNE DEAF ATTACKS ARE MuSIC To FARAGE’S EARS

Keir Starmer and his Cabinet must have thought they were being clever. A barrage of attacks on Nigel Farage from the labour conference floor. Eleven Cabinet ministers wheeled out in just three days to denounce Reform uK. Yet in doing so, they have achieved

only one thing: putting Farage front and centre of the political stage.

For a man who has spent decades thriving on being the outsider, this is a gift. To be called out directly by the Prime Minister in his keynote speech is music to Farage’s ears. It frames him not as a fringe voice but as the

man Labour fears most. And the timing could hardly be worse for Labour. This was supposed to be a week of vision and renewal, proof that Starmer’s government has a plan. Instead, the story has been Reform UK. Farage is right when he says he has dominated the headlines.

The alternative view By Mike Dello

HERE’s a loaded question: if you are a Prime Minister who won a thumping majority just over a year ago, yet today you are the most unpopular uK leader in history, what do you do?

Your ministers have resigned in droves – most recently your deputy Angela Rayner and the US ambassador Peter Mandelson.

You now face a donations scandal involving your chief of staff Morgan

That is no accident — it’s because Labour chose to make him the story. Starmer’s rhetoric also comes across as tone deaf to millions of voters who, whether Labour likes it or not, share Farage’s concerns on immigration, benefits, and law and order. By branding these voters as “racist” — even implicitly — Labour risks repeating the mistakes of Gordon Brown’s “bigoted woman” moment and Emily Thornberry’s sneering at the English flag. It plays straight into the hands of Reform, which thrives on the sense that the political class despises ordinary people.

If Labour wanted to prove it still “gets” the country, it has done the opposite. Instead of talking about jobs, the cost of living, or public services, the government has given Farage weeks’ worth of free publicity. The result? What was supposed to be a conference about Labour’s future may turn out to be the launchpad for Nigel Farage’s. The more Labour shouts, the more Farage smiles. Keep this up, and the next Prime Minister of Britain could well be the man they most wanted to silence.

McSweeny to the tune of £700,000.

Sir Keir Starmer’s answer was to create a smokescreen by resurrecting the ID issue – without even introducing it properly to the House of Commons.

I never thought I would find myself agreeing with the Liberal Democrat leader, but on this I do. He is right to oppose what is, in truth, a naked attack on civil liberties. Encouragingly, this is one issue that unites all the other political parties. More importantly, it has already prompted almost two million signatures in the first twentyfour hours against this scheme.

Meanwhile, Nigel Farage has had a great week publicity-wise. His enemies did the work for him: Ed Davey mentioned him thirty-one times in his conference speech, and Keir Starmer eight times in his own supposedly rousing address. Watching Labour delegates waving Union Jacks instead of singing The Red Flag was comical. Perhaps

Farage’s influence really is rubbing off? The irony is glaring when some Labour-controlled councils are busy removing Union flags from our streets.

So, was this the farewell conference speech for Sir Keir as Andy Burnham flexes his muscles for a leadership challenge?

In other news, a huge congratulations to the European Ryder Cup team, who defeated the USA on their home ground. Sadly, the victory was marred by disgraceful behaviour from sections of the American crowd, who hurled personal insults at Team Europe. At times, they made Millwall fans at The Den look like an audience at the Royal Ballet.

And finally, a sad note: Sarah Ferguson has been dropped by several charities due to her association with Jeffrey Epstein –proof, if it were needed, that in a democracy no one is above scrutiny.

BADGER AND THE STATE OF DECAY

OuR BElOVED Welsh First Minister (no, stop laughing) last weekend set out the horrors of voting for Reform or Plaid Cymru at next May’s Senedd election.

What Wales needs right now, according to the Baroness of All Our Hearts, is stability in a rapidly changing world.

In Wales, stability would be a change from the last twenty-six years of decline. And Badger supposes that Eluned Morgan doesn’t mean the stability of reaching the bottom of the cesspit and being unable to descend further into the brown and smellies. Or, for that matter, sinking to the planetary core.

Let’s look at all those big Labour achievements in governing Wales since devolution.

That didn’t take long, did it, readers?

Badger is prepared to take a punt that readers thought of the 20mph speed limit before anything else. That’s it for over a quarter of a century. Reducing the speed limit in residential areas. Woo-hoo!

Now, let’s consider those things which count as achievements only as failures. After all, readers, failures are also achievements. Some of those failures have resulted from a genuine lack of effort, others from active steps that made things worse, and many more

from neglect.

Look at child poverty, or even familial poverty. Have twenty-six years of Labour rule in Cardiff Bay alleviated the lot of those stuck at the bottom of society’s pile? Have they hell as like! More people live in relative and absolute poverty in Wales now than did so at the turn of the Millennium.

What about Wales’s education system? Has it thrived under Labour? Has it hell as like. The Welsh education system is a basket case. Teacher recruitment has cratered, and retention is a nightmare. There has been, god alone knows how much time, effort, ink, and capital spent navigating Welsh education’s way to (at best) mediocrity. Years after it announced a brand-new Welsh curriculum, it’s still not fully rolled out.

Labour in Wales is inordinately proud of trumpeting how the idea of the NHS was born here. Well, readers, that’s horseshit on stilts. When William Beveridge, a Liberal politician, laid the groundwork for the modern welfare state during the Second World War, his proposals were based on preexisting Ministry of Health work aimed at establishing a national health service. Nye Bevan took the glory, but the work was already done. Indeed, the malign

legacy of Bevan “stuffing doctors’ mouths with gold” is felt to this day. While history is against Labour’s claims, reality is also against any claim that the NHS is safe in its hands. The Welsh NHS is an even bigger disaster area than Wales’s education system. Waiting lists, facilities, mental health care, paediatric and obstetric care, orthopaedics, cancer treatment, the ambulance service, and our old friends, recruitment and retention of staff, are each an absolute shambles.

If that’s “stability”, you can stuff it, readers.

Labour politicians in Cardiff Bay will point to any number of well-meaning but numinous “achievements”. In twentysix years of government in Wales, Labour’s legislative record is puny. Labour politicians point to the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act as a measure that supposedly enshrines consideration for our descendants in every decision made in Wales. It’s as though passing legislation was an end in itself. The important thing about Acts of Parliament isn’t that they are passed, but their effects. The Wellbeing of Future Generations Act’s effects have been to increase bureaucracy, slow down economic development, delay infrastructure projects, and increase opportunities for Labour supporters and quangocrats to dine at the trough of public money. It’s reductive to ask this question, but can YOU name seven things that the Act has measurably improved?

Since 1999, we’ve had government by a vibe. The Welsh Government has announced schemes, initiatives, and ambitions; it’s formed working groups, advisory committees, and ‘expert’ panels. The measurable benefits of all those fine words, spoken and written, are next door to bog-all. Labour’s main achievement in government in Wales has been presenting technocratic gloom through a series of drab and interchangeable nonentities.

Labour’s ambition for Wales starts and ends with being in government in Wales. Wanting to be in government is fine; without being in government, politicians don’t have the chance to do much of national consequence. However, being in government for the sake of being in government is shallow and pointless. “Shallow” and “pointless”, readers: look them up in a pictorial dictionary and there will be a photo of Eluned Morgan. Badger supports devolution, but

he does not support how Labour has squandered the opportunities devolved government presents to Wales. Devolution for Wales has delivered little or nothing of material benefit to the majority of citizens, not because of devolution, still less because devolution is a bad idea, but because of how Labour has pissed twenty-six years of it up against a wall.

Badger is always fascinated by the claims politicians make for job creation and the economy. The truth is that most jobs created in Wales are low-skilled, and the number of skilled jobs available in Wales has shrunk. The Welsh economy is on the bones of its arse and has been for years. Low-density jobs in the digital and green economies will have no discernible positive impact on those who formerly worked in manufacturing industries.

The Welsh Government’s economic strategy, such as it is, aims to replace tens of thousands of jobs with hundreds at best. In that respect, Badger had a big guffaw at Jo Stevens, Wales’s Governor General and Hand of Westminster. Ms Stevens claimed that Labour would deliver “tens of thousands of jobs”. To which Badger thought: “where?” All of those jobs won’t be in Wales, that’s for sure.

Larry Holmes used to tell a story about Don King. Most boxers came from impoverished backgrounds. They had little understanding of media, marketing or image rights. So, Don King would enter a room and empty a large bag of money onto the table, offering them all the cash in exchange for their signature on a contract. Boxers lost out to the tune of hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars.

That is also how politicians work their grift. They use the prospect of massive sums of money, beyond the grasp of the average voter, to buy support. In the many years he has written this column, Badger has received hundreds, if not thousands, of Welsh Government press releases, trumpeting money for this and money for that. Often, the same money is announced at least twice under different guises to obscure the fact that Wales’s “circular economy” is based on Labour in Wales recycling the same promises with the same public money.

That isn’t stability readers. It’s nothing like stability. It’s inertia. It’s staleness. It’s rot. Wales is in a state of decay.

Trump, talons and the danger from across the pond

CARRRRRK! They tells us fascism’s meant to look like something out of the history books – all boots, uniforms, and nasty flags flappin’ in the wind. But sometimes, see, it waddles up looking more like a bloated president who can’t even say “acetaminophen” proper, and then spends a whole minute clucking about marble floors instead of terrazzo. Cawww! If that’s the new face of fascism, it ain’t pretty – but it’s dangerous all the same.

There’s a clever human, Umberto Eco, who warned that the nasty old bird called fascism doesn’t always strut about in jackboots. Sometimes it hides under silly disguises. And some

historians and folk who used to work with that Trump fella say they’ve seen through the feathers and fluff: tradition over reason, hatred of difference, smashing of dissent, a leader treated like some kind of golden gull. It’s all there, if you’re watchin’.

Now, you landlubbers might think it’s just squawking, but look what’s been done. Trump’s lot have shoved troops into cities even when governors said no, tried to bin voters who don’t clap along, bullied the media, cancelled comedians (aye, even the funny ones who mocked his feathers), and grabbed powers that smell fishier than a week-old mackerel on Milford docks.

And when one poor lad,

Charlie Kirk, ended up dead, they turned his funeral into a rally with speeches screechin’ about enemies and wickedness. Caw! That’s not mourning – that’s menace with a microphone.

Over here in Europe, our leaders are flapping nervously, trying not to upset the big bird across the pond in case he stops feeding Ukraine. Some hope the midterms’ll fix it, but any gull with half a brain knows that’s wishful thinking. Trump’s already laying the nets, and the catch ain’t democracy.

Thing is, mates, the European public can see it clearer than their politicians. They’re saying loud: “Protect us, EU, give us strength, don’t let us be pushed around.”

But Brussels is still dithering, like a pigeon caught in the tide.

So here’s me squawk, straight from the dock wall: take him literally, not just seriously. If a bird tells you he hates you and don’t want the best for you – well, believe him! Cawww! Because this ain’t just about America’s troubles. If the rule of law crumbles there, the spray reaches us here too.

And let me tell you, the last thing Europe needs is to get caught between Putin’s sharp beak and Trump’s greedy claws.

CARRRRRK! Better to face the storm head-on than pretend the skies are clear

corner

RSPCA appeals for homes for ‘gentle giants’ this Adoptober

The RSPCA is urging animal lovers to consider adopting a larger dog this autumn, as record numbers of pets remain in its care.

Staff at the charity’s Gonsal Farm Animal Centre in Shropshire say big dogs often wait far longer than smaller breeds to find a loving home. On average, Yorkshire terriers are adopted in just a week, while chihuahuas and cocker spaniels usually wait less than three weeks. By contrast, larger breeds such as lurchers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be in kennels up to seven times longer.

The RSPCA says the situation has reached crisis point, with many rescued animals now being housed in private kennels because charity centres are full. The

pressure is partly due to a series of large-scale cruelty and neglect cases.

Dr Sam Gaines, the RSPCA’s pet behaviour expert, explained:

“We urgently need homes for big dogs, who can wait much longer than smaller breeds. It’s the perfect storm. Rehoming has slowed right across the welfare sector, while dogs rescued from cruelty and neglect need more time to recover and specialist homes to help them.”

Among those waiting at Gonsal Farm are:

• Stella, a two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross who was abandoned. She is friendly, playful and enjoys her walks but needs to be the only pet in the home.

• Stitch, a lively Lurcher who loves cuddles and could live happily with other dogs.

• Lily, a sweet crossbreed who has been at the centre since May. She loves her toys, snacks and learning new skills.

• Jesse, who came into RSPCA care after being rescued from poor conditions in a multi-animal home. Affectionate and gentle, she would prefer to be the only dog in the household.

Operations manager Glenn Mayoll said misconceptions often put people off adopting larger breeds. “Bull breeds like mastiffs and bulldogs are often perceived as aggressive, when

in fact many are nervous or just big softies. Sighthounds such as greyhounds and lurchers can be affectionate companions, and while some working breeds need active homes, others are content with short walks and a comfy sofa.”

The charity is hoping that October – dubbed “Adoptober” – will encourage people to take a fresh look at their bigger dogs.

“Gentle giants, big softies and larger-than-life characters; every one of them deserves a second chance of happiness,” added Dr Gaines.

Anyone interested in rehoming Stella, Stitch, Lily or Jesse can visit the RSPCA Findapet website or contact Gonsal Farm Animal Centre directly.

Barnaby

Nala

Ruby lYNx

Milford Haven schools delays branded ‘scandalous’ and ‘Monty Python’

MilFORD HAVEN’S longawaited schools redevelopment has come under fire again, with councillors branding Welsh Government’s bureaucracy “Monty Python writ large” and delays “absolutely scandalous.”

At Thursday’s (Sept 25) meeting of the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Pembrokeshire’s Director of Education Steven Richards-Downes confirmed that although the Strategic Outline Case for the Milford Haven project was approved by council in July and submitted to Welsh Government the same month, the

scheme still faces a long series of hurdles.

Mr Richards-Downes said the case has been through internal review and is due before the Welsh Government Education Investment Panel on 9 October, with ministerial approval not expected until December 2025. Only then will the scheme progress to the outline business case, tender stage and detailed masterplan. He confirmed that a full business case would not be signed off until 2027, meaning construction cannot begin before then.

Councillor Vivien Stoddart, who represents Hubberston,

told the committee:

“The progress from Milford Haven is a disgrace. My criticism is the Welsh Government. We have all these bureaucratic hurdles — strategic outline case, business case scrutiny groups, investment panels — it’s Monty Python writ large. In the private sector, this would be unacceptable. To expect young people to wait over a decade for a new school is absolutely scandalous.”

Committee chair Cllr Rhys Jordan echoed the frustration: “It is embarrassing to sit here today and look young people in the face and say we’ll get you a new school in a decade’s time. What’s

more important, regenerating towns or the outcomes of young people? For me it’s young people, and I think everyone here would want a shovel in the ground today, if we could.”

Mr Richards-Downes also confirmed that the council has already carried out consultation with the school community as part of the feasibility study, but conceded that wider consultation with parents and families in Milford Haven had not yet taken place.

Milford Haven’s schools remain in Condition C — a poor state of repair — with significant backlogs including fire safety works. Recent improvements have included fire-door replacements and compartmentalisation, but the tower block remains of particular concern.

The scheme, approved by Cabinet in July, would see a co-located new primary and secondary built on the existing secondary site, alongside a 40-place Flying Start centre, a 36-place secondary Learning Resource Centre, and a new Welsh-medium 3–11 school. The total cost is put at £141.6m, with £46.5m to come from the council’s capital programme and the rest expected from Welsh Government.

Pupils face ‘guinea pig’ year as new GCSEs launched in Wales

A MAjOR overhaul of GCSEs in Wales has begun this term, with Year 10 pupils the first to study 15 new-look qualifications.

The changes, part of the Curriculum for Wales rollout, merge English language and literature into a single subject, and do the same for Welsh. Maths and numeracy have also been combined. New courses include film and digital media, and dance.

The reforms put less emphasis on end-of-course exams, replacing them with more assessment throughout the year. Supporters say this will ease pressure on pupils, but teachers warn it could drive up workload and create new inequalities.

HEADTEACHER CONCERNS

Helen Jones, head teacher of Maesteg School in Bridgend, welcomed curriculum reform

but said her pupils risked being “sacrificial lambs.”

“I would hate to think that any cohort of young people lost out because of these new qualifications,” she said. “It’s very unpleasant to be the guinea pig year group.”

She also warned the reforms demand rapid upskilling by teachers, adding: “My teachers are going to need regular support and intervention and a go-to person to seek advice and guidance.”

MixED REACTiON

One teacher called the merger of maths and numeracy “a positive change” but admitted the lack of past papers was worrying.

“We’re always doing the best by our pupils,” she said. “But with the limited example material… we’re just really hoping that we get it right.”

Pupils themselves were

divided. Fourteen-year-old Mali said coursework “gave people the opportunity to show what they can do without the stress of exams.” Her classmate Thomas agreed it took “the pressure off.”

Parents, meanwhile, expressed concerns about how constant deadlines could clash with sports and other extracurricular activities.

POliCY uNCERTAiNTY

The changes come after a last-minute U-turn on plans to scrap separate GCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics. Qualifications Wales has confirmed they will continue to be offered until at least 2031, alongside combined science.

The WJEC exam board said schools had access to sample materials a year in advance and subject officers were available to offer support.

Education Secretary Lynne

Neagle insisted extra funding for teacher training and resources was in place.

But Institute for Fiscal Studies researcher Luke Sibieta warned that courseworkheavy assessment could widen inequality and was vulnerable to misuse of artificial intelligence.

He described the reforms as “a gamble, with some very clear risks.”

Welsh Conservatives call for action following Blue Tongue outbreak

lOCAl Senedd Member Peter Fox and Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Rural Affairs

Sam Kurtz have spoken out following confirmation of Blue Tongue cases in Chepstow, Monmouthshire, and in Powys.

PETER FOx MS SAiD:

“This will be extremely worrying news for our farming community. Farmers are already dealing with so many challenges, and this outbreak will send further shock waves through an industry under real pressure.

While Blue Tongue poses no risk to human health, it can be fatal to livestock — a devastating prospect for farm businesses. I know our local

farmers will remain vigilant and do all they can to help contain the situation. It is vital that any suspected cases are reported immediately to the authorities.”

He added:

“This outbreak is a reminder of how vulnerable our agricultural sector can be to forces outside its control. At a time when farmers are already

battling bovine TB and facing the threat of a family farm tax, the Welsh Government must show greater sympathy and support for the industry.”

Sam Kurtz MS, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Rural Affairs, said:

“This disease poses a serious risk to animal health and is already causing financial losses through movement restrictions at markets and across the supply chain. Vaccination remains our best defence, and I urge farmers to continue protecting their herds and flocks.

Our farmers cannot be left to shoulder these costs alone. The Welsh Government must step up with urgent financial support and show that it is ready to stand alongside our farming communities during this difficult period.”

HE ADDED:

“Now is the time for practical action. Farmers work tirelessly to put food on our tables, and they deserve a government that recognises their efforts and stands with them in times of crisis. Anything less will only add to the uncertainty facing Welsh agriculture.”

FUW urges vigilance as two Bluetongue virus cases identified in Wales

The Farmers’ union of Wales is urging its members to be extremely vigilant following the confirmation of two cases of Bluetongue virus (BTV3) being confirmed in Wales. Both cases were identified in cattle located near Presteigne, Powys and Chepstow, Monmouthshire. It is understood that restrictions have been placed on both holdings whilst further investigation and surveillance is being

conducted.

BTV is a notifiable exotic disease that infects ruminants, such as sheep and cattle. It is transmitted by biting midges which are most active between the months of April and November.

Gerwyn Williams, FUW Animal Health and Welfare committee chair commented: “It is disappointing that Bluetongue virus has now reached Wales. While there is no treatment for

this infection, vaccines are available and it is strongly advised that farmers discuss vaccination options with their vet.

“Knowing what to look for is essential. Animals infected with Bluetongue become lethargic and develop crusting and erosions around their nostrils. There may also be drooling and swelling around the head and hooves. Both cattle and sheep may show an increase in abortions, foetal deformities and still

births.

“As an industry, we need to be mindful when sourcing our livestock, understanding that the virus is spread by midges but can also be transmitted through infected semen, embryos and by the movement of infected animals.

“It is important to note that the Bluetongue Virus does not affect people, or the safety of meat and dairy products.”

Joe Rees Jones joins NFu Cymru Policy Team

NFu Cymru has recently appointed joe Rees jones as Policy Adviser to cover maternity leave in the Policy team.

Joe, previously a Graduate Adviser with the NFU’s External Affairs team in Westminster, has a Master’s degree in Political Communication from Cardiff University and an undergraduate degree in Politics from the University of Sheffield, both of which focused on devolved politics in Wales, as well as parliamentary procedure and electoral campaigns.

The third generation in his family to work for NFU Cymru, Joe’s family hail from Trawsfynydd and later Llanfairpwll on Anglesey –though he grew up in North Somerset. With his parents settling as close to the border as possible, Joe spent his

childhood split between North Somerset and Ynys Môn, where travelling the length of Wales became second nature before he could walk. He continues to learn Welsh.

Since joining the NFU in 2024, Joe has supported the NFU’s lobbying strategy in Westminster, regularly attending stakeholder meetings as part of the Stop the Family Farm Tax campaign, and was responsible for monitoring the NFU’s political engagement across the UK.

A lifelong follower of the highs and lows of Welsh international rugby, Cardiff Blues and Bristol Bears, outside of work Joe enjoys rugby, motorsport and the occasional round of golf.

Speaking on his appointment, Joe said “I’m delighted to be joining NFU Cymru, having spent much

of my life hearing about the fantastic work the organisation does. It’s a privilege to work with such an effective group of people and to contribute to the betterment of our membership.

“With the biggest Senedd election only a few months away, I look forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to help ensure our members’ voices are heard throughout the campaign period and every day thereafter.”.

Welcoming Joe to the team, NFU Cymru Director John Mercer said: “I am really pleased that we have been able to secure Joe as part of our Policy team. With his experience within the NFU’s External Affairs team in Westminster and his education focussed on devolved politics, I have no doubt that he will be a great asset to the team”.

A new report released earlier this month from Westminster’s Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee has thrown a spotlight on the growing and dangerous trade in illegal meat imports coming into the uK, a problem that has long been a concern for the farming community.

The report outlines a stark warning: significant volumes of meat are entering the country through ports, airports, and the Channel Tunnel without proper checks, posing major threats to farming, public health, and the wider economy.

The report paints a troubling picture of weak enforcement, poor data collection, and under-resourced border controls. With shocking examples of meat being smuggled in suitcases - including whole carcasses stored in unsanitary conditions - the risk of introducing devastating animal diseases is real and increasing. Diseases such as foot and mouth could cost the economy billions, cripple rural communities, and jeopardise national food security.

The EFRA Committee has called for urgent action. Among its recommendations are the introduction of fines and prosecutions for repeat offenders, the development of a national strategy to combat smuggling of products of animal origin, and increased public awareness around the risks of illegal meat imports. The report also

underlines the need for greater collaboration between Defra, the National Food Crime Unit, and local authorities.

In Wales, where agriculture plays a vital role in both the economy and rural life, the dangers of illegal meat imports are particularly acute. Farmers continue to invest in high standards of animal health, traceability, and food safety. However, these efforts are being systematically undermined by unchecked imports that threaten to bring disease into the country and compromise food chain integrity.

The UK Government’s inaction on this issue has become increasingly difficult to justify. As other countries implement stronger biosecurity measures, the UK remains vulnerable. A single case of foot and mouth in Germany earlier this year is estimated to have cost their economy over a billion euros; a sobering example of what could lie ahead if the status quo persists.

Looking ahead, the Farmers’ Union of Wales is using its upcoming 2026 Senedd manifesto to renew calls for both the Welsh and UK governments to treat this issue with the urgency it demands. Protecting our borders from illegal meat imports is not just a farming issue, it should be a national priority for public health, animal welfare, and economic resilience.

TBMW model updates, autumn 2025

Autumn 2025 adds revised powertrains, new features and practical details to the current BMW model range.

The entry-level models into the world of BMW M – the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé as well as the corresponding models in the BMW 3 Series and 4 Series – will in future have more powerful and fuelefficient petrol engines. in the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and the BMW i4, the optional Adaptive lED Headlights will now also include laser rear lights.

More power, reduced consumption for BMW M240i xDrive Coupé and the entrylevel models into the world of BMW M in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series.

Autumn 2025 will see both the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.5 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions 172 g/km; CO2 class F) and the BMW M340i xDrive Touring (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.9

litres/100 km; CO2 emissions 181 g/km; CO2 class G) fitted with a more powerful variant of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder inline petrol engine. It now has an output of 288 kW/392 hp, with the mild hybrid system contributing 9 kW/12 hp. The overall increase in power over the previous model is 13 kW/18 hp. Maximum torque has also increased by 40 Nm, to 540 Nm.

This revised powertrain will in future also be fitted in the BMW M440i xDrive Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.7 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions 175 g/km; CO2 class F), the BMW M440i xDrive Convertible (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.7 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions 176 g/km; CO2 class G) and the BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 7.8 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions 179 g/km; CO2 class G).

The output increase makes for even more dynamic

BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, Adaptive LED headlights available for more BMW 4 Series models, practical addition for the BMW 5 Series family.

From autumn 2025, an additional exterior colour will be available as an option for all versions of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé with the M Sport design or the M Sport package. Cape York Green can be ordered for the first time in conjunction with these trim levels.

The optional Adaptive LED Headlights for the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and BMW i4 will also benefit from a significant upgrade. In addition to headlights that will illuminate the road evenly in every situation, this option will now also include laser rear lights. Moreover, Adaptive LED Headlights are also available as an individual option without the M Sport package Pro for the BMW 420i, BMW 420d and BMW 420d xDrive.

performance in the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series models mentioned above. It shaves 0.1 seconds off the time it takes each model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h.

As a result, the BMW M340i xDrive Sedan can now perform this sprint in just 4.3 seconds.

The BMW M240i xDrive Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.0 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions 183 g/km; CO2 class G) now also comes fitted with this more powerful engine.

In addition to the output boost, all models benefit from a significant increase in engine efficiency. As a result, the WLTP fuel consumption of the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé, for example, drops from 8.8–8.7 litres/100 km to 8.0 litres/100 km. CO2 emissions were likewise reduced, from the previous 200–199 g/km to 183 g/km (see table below for all fuel consumption and emissions figures of the new powertrains).

New exterior colours for the

In conjunction with Veganza and Merino upholstery, the comprehensive standard equipment in the BMW X3 now also includes rear headrests and side sections of the second row of seats in the upholstery colour. This further enhances the premium appeal of the BMW X3 interior.

All BMW 5 Series, BMW i5 and BMW M5 Sedan and Touring models will in future offer a very handy feature. A coat hook on the B-pillar trim, provided as standard, makes transporting jackets and coats particularly easy.

Improvements related to BMW Connected Drive.

From autumn 2025, the Charging Guide in the Explore tab of the My BMW app will offer relevant help on all aspects of charging – e.g., “How do I charge?”, or “How do I optimise charging?” This helps to make charging stops as convenient and efficient as possible.

BMW Maps chargeoptimised route planning for all-electric vehicles is now also available in BMW vehicles with Operating System 8 and 8.5 in Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Romania, Serbia and Singapore.

1.2

Volkswagen Passat crowned Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year

The Volkswagen Passat has been crowned the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year for 2026, in what was a hugely successful awards ceremony for the German manufacturer. The Passat also claimed victory in the categories for Family Towcar and caravan weight 1,300kg to 1,500kg,

while the Multivan, from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, topped the podium in the large Family Towcar category.

More than 34 million Passats have been sold worldwide since the covers came off the first generation in 1973, making it the second best-selling Volkswagen model to date behind the

iconic Golf. Caravan and Motorhome Club judges described the latest ninth-generation version as ‘the best of the lot’ and said they voted for it ‘overwhelmingly’ as the overall winner.

The Multivan scooped the Large Family Towcar award for the fourth year running. With two different body lengths and various seating configurations

to choose from, judges praised its practicality, flexibility, interior space, usability and refinement. They said the 2.0-litre petrol engine is smooth and the comfortable ride makes the Multivan ideal for family towing.

Several other Volkswagen models were shortlisted for Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year awards. The ID.5 and ID.7 Tourer (caravan weight under 1,300 kg), Tayron (caravan weight 1,300 kg to 1,500 kg), Tiguan (caravan weight 1,500 kg to 1,600 kg) and ID. Buzz (caravan weight 1,600 kg to 1,700 kg) all narrowly missed out on category wins.

All vehicles considered for the awards – which are now in their 43rd year – were put through their paces by an eight-strong team of expert judges at the UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground near Bedford, which provides a variety of testing driving environments.

ABOuT THE VOlKSWAGEN PASSAT

The ninth-generation Passat –Volkswagen’s most aerodynamic estate car to date – went on sale in the UK in January 2024. Its coefficient of drag (Cd) is just 0.25 – lower than that of many sports cars – making this an economical and cost-effective choice for anyone looking for a modern estate car.

With plenty of space for five people thanks to its long wheelbase, and up to 1,920 litres of rear storage space, the Passat Estate is an ideal all-rounder for business and leisure.

The Volkswagen Passat is available in five trims: Life, Match, Elegance, R-Line and Black Edition. Customers can choose between 150 PS and 204 PS mild hybrid petrol engines or plug-in eHybrids with outputs of 204 and 272 PS. The plug-in eHybrids combine a high-tech turbocharged petrol engine with a 19.7 kWh battery that offers a range of up to 83 miles (Passat Life, WLTP combined).

ABOuT THE VOlKSWAGEN MulTiVAN

With a spacious, flexible interior with up to seven seats, incredible versatility, connectivity and a choice of powertrains, the Multivan provides endless options whether travelling for business or leisure.

Two trims are available in the UK: Life and Style. Customers can choose between standard- and long-overhang versions with a 2.0 TDI 150 PS engine, 2.0 TSI 204 PS engine, or a 1.5 eHybrid offering 245 PS and up to 57 miles of electric-only driving (Multivan Life, WLTP combined).

Kia EV3 and EV9 win at annual Business Car Awards

Kia has won a fresh set of awards at the Business Car Awards 2025, for both its smallest and largest EVs offered in the uK.

Hosted once again at the Hilton London Bankside Hotel, the Kia EV3 is the latest in a long line of Kia models to be recognised by the Business Car Awards jury. Judges praised the car for its compelling blend of range and efficiency, coupled with ride comfort and generous equipment – helping it to win the award of ‘Best Compact SUV’.

Martyn Collins, Editor of Business Car, said: “Kia’s first dedicated compact EV, in our opinion, is the definitive choice for fleet compared with rivals. This is thanks to its impressive efficiency, resulting in a segment-leading range of up to 375 miles. It also boasts distinctive looks, and a comfortable and composed ride. There’s also a spacious, stylish, well-equipped, and quality interior, with easy-to-use infotainment.”

The Kia EV3 is both the UK Car of the Year 2025 and World Car of the Year 2025 – a rare achievement matched only by the Kia EV9 in 2024.

For the second year, the Kia EV9 was declared the ‘Best Premium Large SUV’; a significant achievement for Kia’s flagship model. Set apart by its striking looks, practical seven-seat configuration as standard and 800V electric architecture, the EV9 truly delivers a unique blend of efficient electric motoring with family-sized practicality.

Collins commented: “For the second year in a row, and despite other new Premium Large SUV launches this year, the Kia EV9 retains its Business Car Awards crown. The EV9 still looks great against the opposition, remains a practical seven-seater, is good to drive,

and is impressively efficient. Prices may start at over £65,000, but this is good value compared with rivals.”

Launched in the UK in late 2023, the Kia EV9 has enjoyed a wealth of awards and recognition for its innovative approach to both electric power and the large seven-seat SUV segment. This includes being named the UK Car of the Year for 2024, and the World Car of the Year 2024.

Dave Williams, Head of Fleet at Kia UK, said: “We are delighted to receive these latest business-focused awards for the EV3 and EV9. Awards like these truly highlight the appeal of our great products, and we work hard to ensure they are backed up by all-important customer support. With our well-established network of 190 Kia dealerships across the UK, our Kia Business Service Promise and our seven-year/100,000-

mile warranty, customers can be assured that when buying a Kia they’re getting a complete end-to-end service.”

The Kia Business Service Promise is designed to keep fleet and business customers mobile as well as provide the best service and maintenance from across the Kia dealer network. To find out more about the Kia Business Service Promise, visit: https://www.kia.com/uk/ business/service-promise/

JLR cyber-attack sparks fears for Welsh supply chain

jAGuAR land Rover’s cyber-attack shutdown is continuing to reverberate across the uK, with warnings that suppliers could collapse within days if emergency support is not distributed quickly.

Production at JLR’s major UK plants in Solihull, Wolverhampton and Halewood has been suspended for nearly a month, and is not expected to restart until at least 1 October. The disruption follows a major cyber-attack which forced the carmaker to shut down its global IT systems in late August.

The UK Government has stepped in with a £1.5bn loan guarantee to protect JLR and its 100,000-strong supply chain, but MPs say the package may not be enough. Liam Byrne, chair of the Commons Business and Trade Select Committee, said: “I don’t think we can rule out further intervention. It could well be that something like a Covid-style loan is needed for some suppliers.”

WElSH jOBS iN THE BAlANCE

In Wales, the spotlight has fallen on ZF Automotive in Pontypool, Torfaen, which supplies brake callipers to JLR. The company, which employs more than 60 people, recently secured Welsh Government backing to upgrade its production line to meet JLR’s requirements.

That investment — and the jobs it supports — could now be at risk if orders dry up. Any further delay in restarting production would have immediate knock-on effects for firms like ZF and the

smaller subcontractors which feed into the automotive chain.

Industry experts have warned that some suppliers are already “on the brink”, with bills due at the end of the month and little cash left to cover them.

CAllS FOR ClARiTY

While the loan is intended to protect jobs, there are growing questions about whether support will reach suppliers further down the chain. Professor David Bailey, a business economist at the University of Birmingham, called the situation “a complete wake-up call” for UK industry.

Trade bodies have echoed those concerns. Steve Morley,

of the Confederation of British Metalforming, said speed was essential: “If we can make sure this funding gets distributed quickly, we have a great opportunity to protect the UK automotive supply chain. However, speed is of the essence.”

Welsh politicians are now expected to press both Westminster and Cardiff Bay for assurances that factories in Wales will not be left behind.

WAKE-uP CAll FOR BuSiNESS

The attack on JLR follows similar incidents at M&S and Co-op this year, and MPs have

warned that the UK’s economic security regime is “no longer fit for purpose”.

Mr Byrne said: “Unless you remake the way the government and the private sector work together to keep our economic infrastructure safe, then we’re going to be vulnerable to the kind of attacks that have taken down JLR and M&S much more frequently in the future.”

For Wales, the concern is not only national security but also the stability of a manufacturing base that has already been under pressure. For workers in Pontypool and beyond, the immediate question is whether the promised support will arrive in time.

Pembrokeshire firm fined £300,000 as spam call surge grows

£300,000 for making millions of unlawful automated marketing calls offering solar panels – part of what regulators warn is a growing surge in nuisance calls driven by advances in technology.

Home Improvement Marketing Ltd (HIML), directed by Mathew Terry, was named by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) after investigators found the firm had used overseas call centres and “avatar” software to contact households across the UK.

Between May and August 2023, almost 2.4 million automated calls were made on behalf of HIML. Callers claimed to represent “Energy Hub” or

“Energy Saving Team,” but conversations were powered by pre-recorded voice clips selected by agents abroad.

The ICO said more than 270 complaints were lodged, including from elderly people who felt misled and pressured.

Spam calls on the rise

The case highlights how quickly the spam call industry is evolving. Advances in AI and fast server technology now mean thousands of calls can be placed every hour, using software that can mimic natural conversation and make it harder for the public to tell whether they are speaking to a real person.

Andy Curry, head of investigations at the ICO, said: “These calls can sound convincing, but there are telltale signs – pauses before replies, rigid scripts, and identical voices. The scale and sophistication of these systems make it vital that we continue to act.”

The fine was part of a wider investigation which also saw Durham-based Green Spark Energy fined £250,000. In total, the two companies made nearly 12 million automated calls in just over a year.

Both HIML and Green Spark Energy have been issued with enforcement notices in addition to their fines.

New development at Stepaside caravan site has been refused

PlANS to extend a Pembrokeshire caravan storage facility have been refused by the county council.

In an application through agent Gethin Beynon, Noel Richards sought permission to extend an existing caravan storage facility at Merrixton House Farm, near Stepaside.

A supporting statement accompanying the application said: “The application site adjoins an authorised storage facility for caravans and boats. The proposal seeks permission to extend the caravan storage facility to the north, which would cover a site area of

2,990 square metres. The extended site would be enclosed by a Pembrokeshire hedge bank and have a compacted hardcore material finish.”

It added: “The main purpose of the extended storage facility is to improve vehicle movements around the existing storage facility and reduce the congested nature of the existing storage site arrangement.

“No members of the public visit

the storage facility as for safety and insurance purposes, the owners of the storage facility provide a collection and store service. The extension of the storage facility would add to the efficiency of the operation and diversification of the existing rural enterprise to secure and create additional employment.”

It went on to say: “It is also worth noting that the storage compound is owner managed for safety and security purposes where they park and collect caravans for storage purposes from the locality. The development would therefore not result in an influx of visitor

vehicular numbers and movements in and around the storage compound would be owner operated.”

Amroth Community Council was ‘minded to object,’ saying: “Councillors are unable to understand why such a large extension is needed if the number of vans/boats stored is not necessarily to increase.

“There is also concern that the field identified in the application for the extension is at a higher elevation and so vans may be more visible from the National Park and immediate locality.”

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has said the scheme “has the potential for adverse landscape and visual impacts on the National Park landscape”.

The council’s highways department recommended refusal on the grounds it “represents an unacceptable intensification of use of a substandard access road, in the absence of evidence to demonstrate that the impacts on highway safety can be adequately mitigated”.

The application was refused on the grounds it “would increase the visual clutter and decrease the positive contribution that the verdant farmland makes to the setting of the [adjoining] Park and Garden,” and, with access from “a narrow unclassified single-track road with the carriageway below the recommended standard for two-way flow,” there is insufficient information provided “in respect of existing and predicted trip generation, swept path analysis and mitigation measures to demonstrate that the impacts on highway safety can be mitigated from the intensification of the caravan storage facility”.

Last orders?: Pubs and restaurants face ‘diabolical economic time’

BuSiNESS rate changes threaten to call time on more pubs, restaurants and hotels next year, triggering a fresh wave of closures across Wales, an industry chief has warned. David Chapman, executive director for trade body UKHospitality in Wales, told the Senedd’s economy committee his industry faces “enormous”

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

pressures.

He questioned why hospitality businesses were excluded from the Welsh Government’s plans to cut rates for retail businesses on high streets in town and city centres.

Mr Chapman said: “We’ll end up with us seeing rises in rates from next April worth nearly £7,000 to a pub, £15,000 to a big restaurant and about £50,000 to a hotel. That, on top of all of the other circumstances, will compress and possibly reduce our ability to carry on.”

He added: “We’re going to be cutting back on staff every day, we’re going to be closing for more. Maybe instead of a pub being shut on a Monday then a Tuesday, it’s probably going to be a Wednesday. We’re seeing that some places inevitably will have to close.”

Giving evidence on September 24, Mr Chapman warned the hospitality industry is going through an “absolutely

diabolical economic time” focused on survival, not profitability.

“It’s a grave position without any doubt,” he said.

“On the consideration of readjusting business rates, we pay about three times more than we should because we’re bricks and mortar buildings and not internet businesses, for instance.

“The help that would make a great difference to us immediately in Wales.”

The hospitality representative estimated job losses in the industry in Wales could be greater than the impact of Tata Steel’s decision to cut 2,500 jobs at the steelworks in Port Talbot.

“Some 89,000 jobs in hospitality have gone in the last ten months across the UK,” he said, before adding: “We’ve taken a hit of about seven times more than most other sectors.”

Mr Chapman told the committee Welsh food and drink initiatives have only a fraction, “probably a twentieth”, of the financial “firepower” available in Ireland despite Wales having worldclass products such as lamb.

He said businesses are supportive of local produce but are often forced to choose cheaper, more readily available alternatives due to tight margins and price-conscious customers.

“The cost side of things has gone mad,” he warned.

“We’ve had national insurance contributions this year. One hotel in north Wales employs 80 people and its NI bill has gone up £2,500 a week since April.”

Mr Chapman used an analogy of a sandwich to describe the pressure on businesses, where the bottom half – representing costs like wages and energy – has grown much bigger than the top half representing customer spending.

“The middle bit of the sandwich would be the profitability,” he said.

“That’s now become virtually nonexistent in many businesses and it’s become a way of making a living rather than being able to reinvest in the product.”

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

Health board seeks to rebuild trust after controversial consultation

HYWEl DDA university Health Board is under pressure to rebuild public trust as it weighs up more than 100 new ideas for the future of

key hospital services in west Wales.

The Board has faced years of criticism over controversial consultations, including

proposals to downgrade services at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest and centralise care further east. Many residents have accused the Health

Board of pushing through plans regardless of community opposition.

This time, officials insist the process is different. The Clinical Services Plan consultation has drawn almost 4,000 responses and produced more than 100 fresh suggestions from staff, patients and community groups. Hywel Dda says those ideas will be tested against the same criteria as its own proposals.

The services under review are some of the most pressured in the region — including emergency general surgery, stroke, orthopaedics and critical care. Long waiting times, recruitment problems and service fragility have put them at the top of the agenda.

Medical Director Mark Henwood said: “We have been really pleased with levels of engagement in the consultation from our communities. This has presented to us new ideas which we need to explore and, to do justice, will need to go through the same thorough process as options presented in the consultation.”

Independent analysts at Opinion Research Services are now sifting through the responses, while staff, patients and stakeholders will help assess how accessible different options would be for rural communities.

A full consultation report is expected in January 2026, with an extraordinary Board meeting the following month to make decisions on the future of the nine services.

For now, campaigners and residents will be watching closely to see whether the Health Board can deliver on its promise of listening — or whether old fears about service cuts resurface once again.

More than two-thirds of Welsh pharmacies now offer electronic prescribing

MORE than two-thirds of pharmacies in Wales are now able to provide electronic prescriptions, the Welsh Government has confirmed.

The Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) allows prescriptions to be transferred directly between GPs and pharmacies, replacing paper slips and speeding up the prescribing and dispensing process.

EPS is part of Wales’ wider Digital Medicines Programme, which also includes rolling out electronic prescribing in every hospital and upgrading the NHS Wales App so patients can check when their medicines are ready to collect.

Speaking at the Pharmacy: Delivering a Healthier Wales conference in Cardiff, Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said that more than a million prescriptions are already being sent electronically every month. He described the rollout as “a major step forward in healthcare digitalisation.”

The Welsh Government has pledged to complete the rollout of EPS by November 2026 – nearly a year earlier than originally planned.

ExPANDiNG SERViCES

Alongside the digital changes,

pharmacies are also providing a wider range of clinical services. Nearly 500,000 common ailment consultations were delivered last year, and since June, pharmacists have been able to test, advise and, where necessary, prescribe antibiotics for throat infections.

More than 40% of community pharmacies now employ a pharmacist qualified to prescribe treatment for

conditions such as ear and skin infections, reducing pressure on GP surgeries.

Over the past two years, £1.4m has been invested to modernise pharmacies, funding new consultation rooms, automation technology and medicines collection points.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society

has also been commissioned to review the role of pharmacy professionals working in GP practices, with the work due to begin this autumn and a report expected next spring.

‘ClEAR ViSiON’ FOR PHARMACY

Jeremy Miles said: “Wales has been at the forefront of change in the pharmacy profession and that is something I am very proud of.

“Our wide-ranging reforms have expanded people’s access to appropriate and effective care, drawing on the considerable expertise of pharmacists and giving people faster and easier treatment for a wide range of conditions.

“Investment in the digital medicines programme is improving productivity, safety and patient experience. The rapid expansion of the electronic prescription service means many patients are already seeing the benefits.

“The rollout of electronic prescribing in hospitals will also improve accuracy and safety in medication management and help professionals deliver high-quality care. We have a clear and compelling vision for how pharmacies will continue to make a positive difference to health and wellbeing in Wales.”

Extension of temporary mental health referral changes in Ceredigion

TEMPORARY changes to the way routine mental health referrals are handled in Ceredigion will remain in place until November 2025, Hywel Dda university Health Board (uHB) has confirmed.

The changes, first introduced in March 2025 to address staffing shortages, mean that patients seeking non-urgent support from their GP are directed to the NHS 111 Wales Option 2 service. This provides access to a local mental health wellbeing practitioner, supported by a registered nurse, offering timely advice, assessment and support.

GPs continue to refer patients with urgent or complex needs directly to the community mental health team. They

also have access to a professional 111 support line for additional clinical advice.

ONGOiNG PRESSuRES ON lOCAl SERViCES

The health board has been monitoring outcomes since the change was introduced. With workforce shortages continuing, the arrangement will now be extended to provide stability for patients and staff, while allowing further data collection and analysis.

Liz Carroll, Service Director of the Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Clinical Care Group at Hywel Dda UHB, said:

“Our priority is to ensure people in Ceredigion continue to receive safe,

timely and effective mental health care.

“We know there are lessons to learn from this period. As we extend the temporary change, we will work with GPs and service users to address practical issues and ensure the service is as effective as possible. We are grateful for the community’s understanding and support as we face ongoing workforce challenges.”

THOuSANDS liViNG WiTH MENTAl HEAlTH CONDiTiONS

Public health data shows that more than 9,000 people in Ceredigion live with common mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, while hundreds more are affected by bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder or psychosis.

Although admissions for mental health treatment in Ceredigion have fallen by more than 20% since 2010, experts warn that this reduction may reflect changes in referral criteria rather than a genuine fall in need.

CONCERNS FROM THE COMMuNiTY

A recent survey reported by the Cambrian News found extremely low levels of trust in Ceredigion’s mental

health services, with people citing long waiting lists and feeling “badly let down.” Cost of living pressures, loneliness and trauma were identified as major triggers of poor mental health across the county.

An earlier inspection of the North Ceredigion Community Mental Health Team also highlighted gaps in compliance with national standards, underlining long-standing challenges for local services.

NExT STEPS AND HOW TO HAVE YOuR SAY

The Board will review the extension at its public meeting in November, following discussion at the Quality, Safety and Experience Committee (QSEC) in October.

Anyone needing mental health support can contact NHS 111 Wales Option 2, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The free service connects callers to a Hywel Dda mental health professional, even if they have no phone credit. GPs remain available for advice and support as usual.

Residents are invited to share their views on the temporary referral pathway at: www.haveyoursay.hduhb.wales.nhs. uk/continued-access-to-mental-healthcare-support-in-ceredigion

Eluned Morgan: Labour ready for ‘one hell of a fight’ before Senedd election

WElSH lABOuR leader and First Minister Eluned Morgan used her uK conference speech to rally activists for “one hell of a fight” ahead of May’s Senedd election, setting out what she called the “Red Welsh Way” and warning that Reform uK and Plaid Cymru pose a threat to public services and stability.

Opening with “Siwmae,” Ms Morgan said Labour and Wales were “entwined,” but warned that polls were “not looking good” and voters were disillusioned. “We’re in this together, all of us on the front line,” she said, accusing opponents of offering “easy answers” without plans.

Ms Morgan framed Welsh Labour’s record around three principles—equality, security and community—highlighting social partnership in law, the Future Generations Act, universal free primary school meals, free prescriptions, free bus passes for older people and a Real Living Wage guarantee for care workers. “That, my friends, is socialism in action,” she told delegates.

NEW PlEDGES FOR HiGH STREETS AND FAiR WORK

Citing concerns raised on doorsteps—particularly in Caerphilly, where a by-election

is pending—Ms Morgan said a Welsh Labour Government would introduce licensing powers to curb the spread of vape shops “to keep town centres safe, balanced and welcoming.”

She said future Welsh Government support for businesses would be tied to “fair work” conditions: paying the Real Living Wage, ending exploitative zero-hours contracts and enabling trade union access. “Public money must mean public good,” she said.

TRANSPORT AND lATENiGHT SERViCES

Ms Morgan pointed to £800m

spent on new trains and the South Wales Metro, announcing from December new late-night services between Cardiff and the Valleys and a doubling of trains on the Wrexham–Chester line.

PARTNERSHiP WiTH uK lABOuR

“When Labour governs in Cardiff and Westminster, partnership delivers,” she said, crediting a record financial settlement with enabling safer coal tips, higher wages and “2.7 million NHS appointments delivered each month.” She added that people “need us to move faster… deliver bigger.”

Arguing that ambition outstrips current devolved levers, Ms Morgan called for youth justice powers for Wales, fair rail funding and greater control over “our wind, our seas, our energy.” “We will never stop pressing for every power, every pound Wales deserves,” she said.

ATTACKS ON REFORM AND PlAiD

Ms Morgan accused Reform UK of seeking to “gut the NHS” and prioritising profit over people, drawing a parallel with UKIP’s 2016 Senedd record. She criticised Plaid Cymru’s focus on independence as “promises without plans,” and said Wales needs “experience and stability in an age of instability” rather than “fantasy politics.” Some claims about opponents were framed as her assertions from the conference platform.

Switching briefly into Welsh—“Mae brwydyr anferth o’n blaen…”—Ms Morgan said Welsh Labour had “changed lives” but that progress could be reversed if the party loses next year. “Let’s build, not break… Labour never gives up. Labour never gives in,” she concluded. “So are you up for it, conference? Then bring it on!”

New rules confirmed for fairer council tax collection

HOuSEHOlDS across Wales will soon be given extra time to deal with missed council tax payments under new rules announced by the Welsh Government.

From next April, families will have 63 days to address arrears before enforcement action can be taken. At present, outdated legislation means that if a single payment is missed and not settled within seven days of a reminder, people can become liable for the full year’s bill.

The changes follow a government consultation that received more than 250 responses from councils, advice organisations and members of the public. A significant majority supported extending the minimum period to 62 days and called for better engagement with households in difficulty.

Officials say the reforms will create clearer rules for reminder and final notices, helping to

prevent debt from escalating quickly while still allowing councils to act against those who deliberately avoid payment.

Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford said: “We’re supporting councils to prevent rapid escalation of council tax debt, by giving more time for households to recover from unexpected setbacks, check eligibility for support, and get back on track.

“Anyone struggling to pay council tax should contact their council as soon as possible, or use the free advice services available through the Welsh Government’s Claim What’s Yours service.”

Campaign groups including ACORN and the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, founded by Martin Lewis, have welcomed the move, describing it as a “big win” for fairness in debt collection.

Opposition parties have previously criticised the government for delaying more

fundamental reform of council tax, which Plaid Cymru calls “regressive.” The Conservatives have also argued that council tax rises place too heavy a burden on residents, while the Welsh Liberal Democrats have warned

that changes must go further to ensure fairness.

The Welsh Government said the new rules will deliver a fairer council tax system while maintaining essential funding for public services.

Jo Stevens: Labour putting Wales at the heart of national renewal

WElSH Secretary jo Stevens told labour’s uK conference that Wales is “at the centre of our decade of national renewal,” setting out a year of joint delivery by the uK and Welsh labour governments and warning of “serious” political threats ahead of next May’s Senedd election.

Addressing delegates, Ms Stevens said partnership with First Minister Eluned Morgan had “boosted the Welsh economy, improved business confidence, increased investment and created thousands of new jobs across Wales.” She praised Welsh Labour MPs and a new Wales Office ministerial team, and said recent budgets had “ended austerity” with record settlements for Cardiff Bay.

Listing actions since the general election, she said up to 160,000 workers in Wales had benefited from rises to the national living and minimum wage, new “trailblazer” employment schemes had begun in Denbighshire, Neath Port Talbot and Blaenau Gwent, and more than £500m had been committed to secure the future of steelmaking in South Wales. She also pointed to Freeports and Investment Zones “in every corner of Wales,” and “nearly half a billion pounds” for Welsh rail to deliver

“new stations and more, faster trains.”

According to Ms Stevens, the impact is already visible: “Unemployment is down… inward investment into Wales has risen 30% in the last year… and real wages are rising faster than inflation.” She linked cheaper mortgages to five recent base-rate cuts.

Turning to political opponents, Ms Stevens said Nigel Farage’s Reform UK had arrived in Wales “with patronising

politics” and “no Welsh policies,” and described the party as a threat “to our communities, to our NHS and, if you work in Welsh public services, to your livelihood.” She criticised Plaid Cymru as “not a serious party,” claiming UK Government analysis shows the party’s independence plan would require “over £21bn each year” to maintain current services—“more than £11,000 for every working-age adult in tax rises and austerity cuts.”

“Labour has ended austerity in Wales,” she said. “Don’t let Reform or Plaid impose it on Wales again.”

Ms Stevens contrasted recent government moves with opponents’ positions, highlighting a new Defence Growth Deal launched in Caerphilly to create high-skilled jobs in the sector, and the “Pride in Place” programme— described as more than £200m to revitalise high streets and regenerate communities across Wales. She said Prime Minister Keir Starmer had “restored the UK’s reputation,” striking trade deals, investing in security and “never playing politics with people’s livelihoods.”

Framing the contest ahead of the Senedd poll, she said Wales faces “a choice between renewal or decline, and between decency or division,” adding: “Only two Labour governments working together can and will keep Farage out of Wales and lead our country on that path of renewal.”

The speech included tributes to former minister Nia Griffith and welcomed Anna McMorrin and Claire Hughes to the Wales Office team, alongside PPS Becky Gittins and Lords spokesperson Ruth Anderson. Ms Stevens closed by urging members to “fight and win” the election “together.”

Protesters risk arrest at Labour conference over Palestine ban

AROuND one hundred protesters are sitting outside the labour Party conference today, holding signs that read “i oppose genocide. i support Palestine Action.”

The silent demonstration is aimed at challenging Labour’s decision to support the government’s ban on Palestine Action – the first time a domestic protest group has been proscribed as a terrorist organisation in the UK.

Since July 5, more than 1,500 people have been arrested for taking part in similar actions, many of them older campaigners including priests, teachers, healthcare workers and former magistrates. Amnesty International has raised concerns, issuing an urgent appeal to its members and sending observers to today’s protest.

EMBARRASSMENT FOR lABOuR

Campaigners warn that any mass arrests by Merseyside Police would be highly embarrassing for the government on the opening day of conference, as Cabinet ministers, MPs and delegates walk past the demonstration.

Critics say Labour has stifled internal debate, with party officials blocking all 30 motions on Palestine put forward by local

branches. Polling reported by LabourList and The Telegraph suggests more than 70% of Labour members oppose the ban, while the TUC, representing 48 trade unions and 5.6 million workers, unanimously passed a motion calling for it to be lifted.

Even former Labour leader Lord Neil Kinnock, usually supportive of Keir Starmer, has spoken against the move, warning the government had “blunted” terror laws by designating the group terrorists.

Among those risking arrest today is Keith Hackett, a 71-year-old former Labour councillor from Liverpool. He said:

“I’m deeply ashamed of how Labour are acting. If the party want to win back the support they’ve lost, they must end their complicity in this genocide and lift the ban on Palestine Action.”

Actor and writer Tayo Aluko, 63, also taking part, added:

“This government, like authoritarian

regimes before it, wants to plant fear in citizens so it can let its friends and paymasters get away with genocide. This is a time for bravery.”

WiDER CRiTiCiSM

Lawyers have accused former Home Secretary Yvette Cooper of running “a cynical media campaign” around the ban. FOI requests suggest the move followed lobbying from Israeli officials and defence contractor Elbit Systems. The government’s own intelligence assessment, later reported by The New York Times, stated Palestine Action did not advocate violence and was banned primarily for property damage caused during direct actions.

Campaigners argue that Labour has reneged on Jack Straw’s promise when the Terrorism Act was passed in 2000 that it would never be used against domestic protest groups.

A spokesperson for Defend Our Juries, who helped organise today’s action, said:

“Instead of shutting down protest, the Labour Party should take its duty to prevent genocide seriously and impose blanket sanctions on Israel, including ending the flow of arms from UK factories.”

VOiCES FROM THE PROTEST

W ITH ANDREW LYE

contaminated blood scandal remains one of the gravest injustices in NHS history.

More than 30,000 people were infected with HIV and Hepatitis C through NHS blood products during the 1970s and 1980s, leading to the deaths of over 3,000 people so far.

For decades, victims and their families have been let down by governments that delayed, denied or deflected responsibility.

The Infected Blood Inquiry, published in May 2024, made it clear: This disaster could largely have been avoided had health authorities made different decisions.

Yet despite repeated promises, the Government continues to drag its feet.

Just 460 people have so far received compensation under the scheme, while campaigners estimate that more than 100 victims have died in the last year alone while waiting. This is not justice – it is another betrayal.

The Liberal Democrats believe victims deserve recognition, dignity, and timely compensation. Justice delayed is justice denied.

It is Liberal Democrat members that devise, debate, amend and pass (or reject) motions at Conference. Our conferences are not a place where we just go to listen to our leader, Ed Davey or his team of MP’s and then go home.

That’s why our members passed new policy which would turn promises into action and make sure no scandal on this scale ever happens again:

Deliver justice for victims by fully implementing the Infected Blood Inquiry’s recommendations and ensuring all claims under the compensation scheme are processed quickly and fairly.

Provide ongoing support for all victims of medical scandals, including access to healthcare, psychological services, and social support.

Prevent future scandals by introducing a statutory duty of candour on all public officials and embedding patient voices at board level across the NHS so that patients’ experiences shape decision-making.

Reinvest in the NHS by committing any savings from reducing compensation payouts – which currently cost the NHS nearly £3 billion a year – into frontline care.

Victims have already waited decades for answers, and many are still waiting for compensation they were promised. Families have been left without loved ones and without support. Every delay deepens the injustice of this scandal.

We must ensure that the NHS is safer, fairer and more transparent in the future. A statutory duty of candour for public officials, promised under the ‘Hillsborough Law’, remains undelivered despite Government commitments to introduce it by April 2025.

Without such safeguards, the risk of future cover-ups and scandals remains.

By delivering justice and putting in place lasting safeguards, Liberal Democrats would honour the victims of the contaminated blood scandal and protect future patients from enduring such injustice ever again.

I write this article as I grew up with one of the victims. He was the same age as my youngest brother. He was a haemophiliac. An inherited medical condition in which the blood’s ability to clot is severely reduced, causing the sufferer to bleed severely from even a slight injury.

He died in 2008, aged 45.

If you have any issues or comments, please contact me at andrew.lye@pembslibdems.wales

Welsh Government marks decade of landmark law on violence against women

THE WElSH GOVERNMENT has renewed its commitment to tackling violence against women and girls at a national summit marking ten years since the introduction of Wales’s Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) Act.

The event, co-hosted by the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice and the South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner, brought together public bodies and specialist organisations to reflect on progress and push for urgent action. Survivors were central to the summit, sharing

powerful testimonies that underlined the need for continued reform and support.

Since the Act came into force in 2015, Wales has seen improvements in awareness, training, and access to services, but speakers acknowledged the scale of the challenge that remains. Participants heard examples of where agencies have worked together to prevent abuse, protect victims, and bring perpetrators to justice.

South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Emma Wools said: “Violence against women and girls is a crisis that runs deep in our communities

and has reached epidemic levels. We have made progress with the VAWDASV Act, but much more needs to be done. Only by working as one team across public, private and voluntary sectors can we deliver a system that meets people’s needs at the earliest opportunity.”

Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Jane Hutt added: “This remains a public health crisis rooted in deep inequalities. Survivors’ voices must shape our services and policies. We all share responsibility for creating a Wales where women and girls can live free from the threat of violence and abuse.”

The Live Fear Free helpline is available 24 hours a day for advice and support:

Call: 0808 8010 800 Text: 0786 007 7333

Email: info@livefearfreehelpline. wales

Live chat: via the website

Anyone in immediate danger who cannot speak safely should dial 999 and press 55 to alert the police.

Kurtz hails A477 Road Safety Improvements

lOCAl Senedd Member

Samuel Kurtz has secured a series of long-awaited commitments from the Welsh Government to improve safety along the A477, following years of campaigning in the Senedd.

Working closely with community councils and residents, Mr Kurtz has consistently raised concerns about dangerous junctions and speeding along this key trunk road. His persistence has now led to ministerial promises of action.

The Transport Minister confirmed that improvements will be made at the “problematic” Red Roses junction, while a speed review will take place through the South Pembrokeshire village of Milton. However, campaigning continues to ensure further improvements at the Cosheston junction.

This success builds on Mr Kurtz’s earlier achievement in securing changes to the notorious Nash Fingerpost junction, where a new road layout has already reduced accidents. He pledged to continue pressing for upgrades at other hazardous

points along the A477.

Samuel Kurtz MS told The Herald: “Local residents and community councils have been tireless in highlighting the dangers along the A477, from the Red Roses junction to speeding through Milton. I am delighted that ministers have finally listened and agreed to take action. These long-overdue

improvements will make a real difference to safety and the driving experience.

“The campaign doesn’t stop though. I will keep pressing the Welsh Government to improve the safety of accident hotspots along the A477, including the Cosheston junction, and on other roads across the constituency.”

Call for Palestinian flag to be flown over Senedd

AN OPEN letter has been sent to the Senedd’s Presiding Officer urging that the Palestinian flag be flown outside the building in Cardiff Bay.

The letter, signed by organisations in Wales and coordinated by Palestine Solidarity Campaign Cymru, follows the UK Government’s decision last week (Sept 21) to formally recognise the State of Palestine. That announcement, made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the International Day of Peace, was described as a “significant development” by campaigners.

In the letter to Elin Jones MS, the Llywydd, the signatories argue that flying

the Palestinian flag would demonstrate solidarity with the Palestinian people and reflect the UK Government’s new position.

Campaigners point to the Senedd’s decision in February 2022 to fly the Ukrainian flag as an example of how symbols can send a powerful message of support during conflict.

The letter also references a report published earlier this month by the UN Human Rights Council, which concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza. The campaigners say that, under the UN Genocide Convention, Wales has a duty to act proactively in opposing atrocities.

Andrew Draper, media

officer for Palestine Solidarity Campaign Cymru, said: “Flying the Palestinian flag is not only an expression of solidarity but also a demonstration of Cymru’s commitment to stand against genocide. This is a crucial moment to show leadership and compassion.”

The letter concludes by urging the Llywydd to act swiftly: “By raising the Palestinian flag, we would be aligning ourselves with the cause of peace and justice, and demonstrating that in Wales, we stand for a future where the Palestinian people can exercise their right to a free, secure, and sovereign state.”

The list of signatories can be viewed online.

Wales would turn Reform blue in dramatic election forecast

WAlES would be politically unrecognisable if a general election were held today, according to new YouGov

projections. The polling predicts a seismic collapse for Labour, with Keir Starmer’s party wiped

BLuE VIEW

With Paul Davies MS

Clarity needed as planning chaos threatens local developments

News that planning developments will now have to demonstrate nutrient neutrality has made the planning process significantly more complicated for local businesses in most parts of Pembrokeshire. This has come about as a result of Natural Resources Wales publishing new condition assessments for Marine Protected Areas earlier this year. The condition assessments showed that the nutrient sensitive features in Pembrokeshire Marine, Carmarthen Bay and Estuaries and Cemlyn Bay Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) are in an unfavourable condition for Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen and there is a belief that new developments in these areas could exacerbate the situation.

social consequences that could arise as a result of the introduction of new condition assessments.

Moving forward, it’s hoped that planning authorities will work proactively to identify a constructive path forward, ensuring that developments in Pembrokeshire can continue. Any halt in developments would not only have a huge impact on the construction sector but also disrupt local supply chains, with far-reaching economic consequences. Of course, this isn’t solely about housebuilding— commercial projects, social housing, and public building developments would all be affected. As readers will know, thousands of jobs depend on these developments, and so the ripple effects would be felt across communities right across Pembrokeshire.

out across much of the country and Reform emerging as the dominant force. The figures suggest Nigel Farage would become Prime Minister, with his party winning a staggering 311 seats across the UK. Labour, by contrast, would lose 267 seats – one of its worst-ever results.

In Wales, the picture is even bleaker for Welsh Labour. The poll forecasts they would retain just three seats, a collapse unprecedented in more than a century. If realised, this would mark the first time since 1918 that Labour failed to secure the majority of Welsh constituencies.

Most of the 24 lost seats in Wales would fall to Reform, in line with the UK-wide trend. The shift would redraw the political map of the nation, leaving vast swathes of Wales shaded in Reform blue.

The projections underline a dramatic change in the political landscape, suggesting that Labour’s once unshakeable dominance in Wales is now under serious threat.

Over the summer, this was the focus of a discussion at Pembrokeshire County Council and the Head of Planning confirmed that developments generating wastewater will have to demonstrate nutrient neutrality and prove that they will not result in an increase in Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen before they can go ahead.

Unfortunately, Natural Resources Wales has not published any formal marine nutrient neutrality guidance – and only interim advice is currently available. This is very disappointing news for anyone who wants to apply for planning permission in much of the County and could have a huge economic impact in Pembrokeshire if this continues.

Now, to be fair to Pembrokeshire County Council, it has acknowledged the significant impact that these changes could have on developments across a large part of the county. It also recognises the broader economic and

It is therefore in everyone’s interest that this issue is addressed collaboratively and urgently. A workable solution must be found. Natural Resources Wales must actively engage with planning authorities and businesses, and provide clear, timely guidance to support progress.

I’ve raised this issue at the Senedd and I’ve called for the Welsh Government to get involved to sort this mess out. The First Minister has now committed to setting up a task force to look into the issue, but it’s crucial we see some urgent action so that developments can go ahead in Pembrokeshire. Any delays in tackling this issue costs businesses money and could put some people’s livelihoods at risk – and so we cannot carry on as usual – there is no time to waste.

SEND YouR LETTERS To: THE EDIToR, 11 HAMILToN TERRACE, MILFoRD HAVEN, PEMBRoKESHIRE, SA73 3AL

EMAIL uS AT: editor@herald.email

TUre oF The week!

THE GREATEST IDEA IS LoVE

DEAR SiR,

i was educated at a wellknown fee-paying school before the abolition of the unfair ‘11 Plus’ system, which was rightly replaced by the more honourable comprehensive system. The change was made with the best of motives, but a grave mistake followed: in the drive to make the new system succeed, the curriculum became dominated by pragmatic and materialistic subjects, too often narrowing the focus to money and personal gain.

As a result, society came to be defined less by birth privilege and more by wealth. The millionaire, then the billionaire, and now the multihundred-billion-dollar figure has become the model of success. We are encouraged to worship such individuals — Musk, Trump, Farage — as though the accumulation of wealth were the highest calling. Yet this worship of money

At the Mental Health Foundation, we recognise the benefits of being informed and connected. However, we also encourage people to set healthy boundaries—whether that means limiting late-night doomscrolling or taking regular breaks from the news—to safeguard their mental health.

To help, we have produced practical tips and resources for coping when the headlines feel too heavy. These are available at: mentalhealth.org. uk/WorldMentalHealthDay.

Alexa Knight Director of Policy and influence Mental Health Foundation

when words are no longer enough.

First, the perpetrators of such violence must be swiftly brought to justice, in every sense—not only through immediate security response, but through the dismantling of the networks, ideologies, and environments in which such hatred fester.

Second, public institutions — police, security services, local and national government — must do far more to protect religious minorities, particularly Jewish communities, from intimidation, harassment, and violence. The targeting of synagogues, the escalation of antisemitic incidents in recent years, and now this murderous attack, make clear that soft assurances are not enough.

DEAR SiR,

breeds division and hostility, no less corrosive to the human spirit than the failed ideologies of the past.

Education must aim higher. Children should be taught justice, ethics, sacrifice, and respect for the heritage left by those before them. They should be guided to seek out the eternal principles that underpin the universe — from material and abstract truths to the greatest ideal of all: love.

C. N. Westerman

WoRLD

MENTAL HEALTH DAY

DEAR SiR,

WORlD Mental Health Day, observed annually on 10 October, is an important reminder of the need to prioritise our mental wellbeing.

In an age of 24-hour news and instant updates, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by constant reports of crises at home and abroad. Anxiety, hopelessness, and exhaustion are natural responses when we never switch off.

i write today to express my appalled grief, anger, and solidarity in response to the utterly senseless and hateful attack in Manchester this morning (2 October 2025). Reports confirm that a man drove a vehicle into pedestrians near the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Crumpsall, then proceeded to stab bystanders, before being shot by police. At least two civilians lost their lives, and three others are gravely injured.

The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, when many members of the community had gathered for worship. This atrocity is an affront to everything our society should stand for: respect, tolerance, religious freedom, compassion. That such an attack should happen in Britain, a nation proud of its pluralism and rule of law, is deeply unsettling. That it happens on such a solemn day for a community already vulnerable to fear and suspicion compounds the cruelty.

We all share in the burden of shame and sorrow. We must not stand by. We must demand more — more vigilance against hate, more solidarity with minority communities, and more political courage to act

Third, prejudice in speech feeds prejudice in action. We must confront antisemitism wherever it lurks — in social media posts, in community talk, in politics — and ensure that public and private leaders speak out against it clearly, forcefully, and consistently. Silence or equivocation is complicity.

Finally, the Jewish community of Manchester and beyond must know: they are not alone. Across the United Kingdom, we stand with you, mourning the dead, praying for the injured, and demanding a future in which worship, peace, safety, and respect are guaranteed for all.

Let today’s violence become a turning point, not another tragic headline we grow numb to. Let it galvanise every decent person to ask: what will I do? Will I simply condemn, or will I act? Will I seek to educate, to call out hatred, to support vulnerable neighbours?

I call upon the editors of every newspaper, the speakers in every public forum, the leaders of every faith and political party: use your influence to amplify this message of unity and protection. Let us not allow this moment to be swallowed by despair and division. Let justice, vigilance, empathy, and a recommitment to our shared humanity prevail.

With sorrow, but also with resolve,

Norman james Pembrokeshire

MANCHESTER ATTACK

Pic

Tenby by elizabeTh FiTzpaTrick

death notices

R ICHARD G E o RGE Co LS o N

T HE death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital on Tuesday 9th September 2025 of Mr. Richard George Colson, aged 88 years of Newton Heights, Kilgetty.

Devoted and much-loved Husband of 64 years to Patricia. Dearly loved Father of Steve, Rob and the late Cynthia.

The funeral service will take place on Friday 3rd October 2025 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 11:30am.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired for Diabetes UK c/o E. C. Thomas and Son, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 and 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 or via www. ecthomasandson.co.uk

PAMELA H ARRIES

P EACEF ullY AND SAD lY, PAM OF C H u RCH R OAD , R OCH ( FORMER Ci V il S ERVANT ) PASSED AWAY ON 12 TH S EPTEMBER 2025 AT Wi THYB u SH H OSP i TA l.

Much loved mother and mother in law of Mairwen and Neil. Adored Granny to Bethan and Rhys. Much loved sister and sister in law to Robert and Vivien And cherished Aunty. Will be dearly missed, greatly loved and remembered by all family and friends.

Funeral Service to take place at 1.00pm on Thursday 2nd October at Trefgarn Owen Chapel.

Family flowers only.

Donations kindly accepted to The Royal Osteoporosis Society and Adam’s Bucketfull of Hope Kindly received by WG Bernard Mathias and Daughter Funeral Directors, St Davids Tel 01437 720537

G ERALD H ARRIES

Su DDEN lY B u T PEACEF ullY ON Tu ESDAY 23 RD S EPTEMBER AGED 90 YEARS , G ERA l D OF D WRBACH

Beloved husband of Leila, loving father and father-in-law of Neil & Evelyn, treasured grandfather of Sam & Ffion, dear brother of Roy and respected brother-in-law of David and Bernice.

Funeral service on Thursday 9th October at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 1:45pm.

No flowers by request.

Further enquiries to Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Fishguard. Tel: 01348 873250.

H A z EL L Au RA M ARSDEN

T HE death occurred peacefully on Thursday 18th September 2025 at Woodland l odge Care Home, Gumfreston of Mrs Hazel Laura Marsden, aged 79 years formerly of Pembroke Dock.

Devoted wife of Kenneth. Dearly loved Mum of Helen, Jocelyn and Stephanie, also Step-Mum to Julia, Catherine and Rachael. Loved

Mother-in-law to Philip, Richard and Steve. Beloved Nanny to Carys, Caitlin and Billy. Much Loved Sister to Philip. Cherished Sister-in-law to Marion. Loved Auntie to Louise and Kirsty.

The funeral service will take place on Friday 17th October 2025 at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth at 3.15pm.

There will family flowers only with donations in lieu if so desired for Alzheimer’s Society c/o E. C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, 21 Main Street, Pembroke, SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth, SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 or via: www.ecthomasandson. co.uk

B EATRICE ‘‘E LEAN o R ’’ BATES

T HE death occurred at Withybush Hospital, on Wednesday 17th September 2025 of Miss Beatrice Eleanor Bates, affectionately known as Eleanor, aged 86 years of Halkon Crescent, Narberth.

Devoted daughter of the late Mr & Mrs Hubert Bates. Much loved Sister and Sister-in-law of Brian & Pauline and Norma & Richard. Also Georgie, (partner of the late Eric). Well loved by all her nephews and nieces, great nephews and great nieces.

The funeral service will take place on Friday 10th October 2025 at Bethesda Chapel, Narberth at 2.30pm followed by interment in chapel

cemetery.

There will be family flowers only with donations in lieu, if so desired Bethesda Chapel, Narberth and Haematology Oncology Day Unit, Withybush Hospital c/o E. C. Thomas and Son, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (01834) 831876 and 21 Main Street, Pembroke SA71 4JS (01646) 682680 or via www.ecthomasandson.co.uk

G LENYS Do REEN W ERNER ( N é E L EWIS )

Gl ENYS passed away suddenly at home on 17th September 2025 aged 96 years.

A dearly loved wife to the late Armin, devoted mother to David and Janet, respected mother-in-law to Francesca and Andrew and a treasured Granny to Thomas, Charlotte and Josh. Glenys will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

The funeral will take place on Friday 10th October 2025 at 10.45am at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, SA67 8UD.

Immediate family flowers only but donations, if desired, for the Paul Sartori Foundation can be sent directly to: Paul Sartori House, Winch Lane, Haverfordwest, SA61 1RP. Telephone 01437 763223.

All enquiries to Tom Newing and Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, Dartmouth Street, Milford Haven, SA73 2AN. Telephone 01646 693180.

Loved and Remembered Always

PRoFESSIoNAL

SHuTTERS & BLINDS

Dinghy crews battle in Tenby Sailing Club finale

FOuR dinghy crews took to the water on Sunday (Sept 28) for Tenby Sailing Club’s season finale, overseen by race officers Steve and Jas Stubbs.

was awarded to Robin Wood, with Peter Rose second and Steve Leach third.

The final cruiser race of the season takes place on Saturday, October 4.

Beyond racing, eight young trainees completed their second powerboat session under instructor Max Richards, each earning RYA certificates.

Residents are reminded to keep St Julian Street and Castle Square clear in the early hours of Thursday, October 9, when a large crane will be in operation for the annual boat lift-out.

Two races were held in light but challenging conditions. In the opener, Bill and Nan Dowell in their R 228 claimed victory, just ahead of Ted Lewis and Lucas Boissevain in Osprey 1342. Their strong showing was hampered later by a jellyfish mishap, which cost them in the second race.

Clark, sailing Osprey 1365, finished third in race one but rallied to take first place in race two. Meanwhile, Steve Leach in RS600 674 improved from fifth in the opener to secure third in the second race.

Dave Griffiths and Maurice

The overall season trophy

The club recently enjoyed a packed end-of-season party, organised by Terry Evans and Marc Shepherd, who treated members to three curries. Upcoming social events include a bangers and mash evening and the start of the winter quiz season.

Wales’ Commonwealth Games hopes ‘dashed by underinvestment’

THE DREAM of hosting another Commonwealth Games on Welsh soil is currently impossible due to decades of underinvestment in Wales’ sporting facilities, a committee has heard.

Sport Wales chair Tanni Grey-Thompson said: “It’s important we have events in Wales. Sadly, I don’t think we could ever probably host the Commonwealth Games.”

Pressed about why, Baroness Grey-Thompson pointed to the lack of a suitable athletics stadium but said Wales could host parts of the Games with a pool and velodrome.

“It would be amazing to have a Commonwealth Games on home soil,” she said. “But that’s a longer term set of decisions and strategy. It’s about having the

Haines ICNN Senedd reporter

infrastructure and legacy.”

Citing “decades of underinvestment”, Labour’s Alun Davies asked: “Don’t you think it’s quite a commentary on the state of Welsh sporting facilities that… we don’t have the facilities to host the Commonwealth Games?”

Baroness Grey-Thompson concluded: “It comes down to money.”

Baroness Grey-Thompson appeared before the Welsh Parliament’s culture and sport committee for annual scrutiny on September 25.

Delyth Jewell, who chairs the committee, asked about the potential impact of the Welsh Government’s planned

“business-as-usual” budget which will rise in line with inflation.

Baroness Grey-Thompson said: “We do recognise that it’s a really tough time financially… and the committee’s own analysis of the sport sector shows that it’s funded lower than other comparable European nations.”

She stressed the value of sport and physical activity to Welsh society, referring to comments from the chief medical officer who described sport as a “miracle drug”.

The Paralympian told Senedd Members: “We understand you’ve got to spread the money a long way but we’re really ambitious… not necessarily money going into Sport Wales but going into physical activity in the wider sector.

“There would be an impact in terms of the scale of our ambition.”

She told the committee Sport Wales needs about £20m a year to catch up with other home nation sports councils and £200m to be in line with the average of other European countries.

“Wow,” Mr Davies exclaimed in response to the figure.

Baroness Grey-Thompson, who called for multi-year settlements for day-to-day revenue and longer-term capital funding, said “I think with what we have, we’re pretty efficient.”

She recognised that £200m

is a “long way off” what Sport Wales can reasonably expect.

Graham Williams, director at Sport Wales, described plans for a “flatline” budget as a missed opportunity, particularly to invest in changing young people’s activity patterns.

Mr Williams reminded Senedd Members that Sport Wales –which funds partners including governing bodies – received a “challenging” 10.5% cut in 2024/25, equivalent to £2.4m.

Mr Davies, a former minister, said: “It feels to me like unplanned, almost panic budgeting as you’d find in some sort of financial crisis – it takes me back to 2010.”

Baroness Grey-Thompson replied: “It wasn’t an easy time for anyone,” but she welcomed transparency from the Welsh Government which aided Sport Wales’ planning.

Wales ranked third from bottom of European countries in terms of spending for each person on recreational and sporting services, according to a culture committee report.

The country was languishing second from bottom in the league table for cultural services in January’s report which warned of the impact of a decade of cuts.

Cardiff hosted the then-British Empire and Commonwealth Games in 1958 – one of the biggest sporting events ever held in Wales at the time.

Chris

Save our Scarlets: Elected members voice ‘fundamental opposition’ to WRu plans

PlAiD Cymru representatives in Carmarthenshire have declared their “fundamental opposition” to any move that could bring an end to professional rugby in llanelli.

Cefin Campbell MS, Ann Davies MP and Adam Price MS issued their joint statement on Friday (Sept 26), the closing day of the Welsh Rugby Union’s consultation on its future strategy.

Their intervention comes on the eve of a major march in Llanelli on Saturday (Sept 27), organised to demonstrate public support for the Scarlets.

In their response to the consultation, the three elected members said that while they recognised the structural challenges facing Welsh rugby, they could not support any plan that risks the dissolution of the Scarlets.

“The aspect of the consultation paper that has received the most public attention is the stated intention to cut the number of professional clubs from four to two,” they wrote. “This inevitably presents the possibility of the dissolution of Scarlets as a club, and as a result the end of elite, professional rugby in west Wales, which has already generated considerable grassroots opposition and discontent. We cannot support any plan that presents this risk.”WRU Consultation Response ENG

They argued that disbanding the Scarlets would be disastrous not only for Llanelli and Carmarthenshire, but also for Welsh rugby nationally. The team, they stressed, has consistently produced players for the national squad across generations, while contributing significantly to the economy and cultural identity of west Wales.

The members also warned that the loss of professional rugby in the region would damage grassroots pathways for young players and undermine community links.

They called on the WRU to reconsider, stating: “The future of the Scarlets is more than just a rugby team – it is an integral part of the identity, economy and pride of west Wales.”

Tomorrow’s march in Llanelli is expected to draw large crowds, with campaigners distributing “Save our Scarlets” leaflets and urging supporters to sign an online petition calling for the team’s survival.

Cymru Prepare for England and Belgium

CYMRu head coach Craig Bellamy has named a 26-man squad for two defining fixtures this month — an international Challenge Match against England at Wembley on Thursday 9 October, followed by a vital World Cup qualifier against Belgium at the Cardiff City Stadium on Monday 13 October.

The double-header pits Cymru against two of the world’s leading nations. England currently sit fourth in the FIFA rankings, Belgium eighth, while Cymru moved up one place to 30th in September. For Bellamy, facing elite opposition is exactly the kind of challenge he wants for his developing side.

“It allows us to keep improving,” he explained at the squad announcement on Tuesday. “We need to improve. We want to be better and I want to be better as a coach.

So why wouldn’t you play the best opposition you can that’s available to you at that time? There’s a different intensity with these type of teams. That’s why it’s top level.”

A POSiTiVE SPiN ON ENGlAND AT WEMBlEY

The Wembley clash comes just four days before Belgium arrive in Cardiff, but Bellamy sees only benefits in taking on Thomas Tuchel’s England so close to the qualifier.

“We get to play at Wembley Stadium against one of the top nations in the world. I don’t know what that is apart from excitement,” he said. “That leads us into another game of high

intensity again. You’re ready because you’ve just got that momentum. I see that as being really important going into the next game.

I don’t believe in friendlies. There isn’t when you represent your country. We’re respectful to what we have coming up, but we’re going there to try and win.

Our biggest rivals are ourselves. Who we are. It’s us against us. It always is. Who are the people we represent? That’s our identity. We have to show that in every single game.”

Cymru’s last meeting with England was at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a 3-0 defeat in Al Rayyan. Their most recent Wembley appearance came in 2011 under Gary Speed, a narrow 1-0 loss in a Euro qualifier. Over 6,500 members of the Red Wall are expected to travel to London for this latest renewal of one of international football’s oldest rivalries.

BElGiuM REMATCH iN CARDiFF

The Belgium fixture is the one that matters most in terms of qualification. The reverse game in Brussels in June was a thriller: Belgium raced into a three-goal lead before Cymru fought back magnificently, Brennan Johnson among the scorers, only for Kevin De Bruyne to snatch a late 4-3 win.

This time, the Cardiff City Stadium will be sold out, with tickets gone within 24 hours of general sale. Belgium, however, will arrive on the back of another heavyweight clash: they host Group J leaders North Macedonia just three days earlier, leaving them with

less recovery time than Cymru.

BEllAMY iS KEEPiNG A ClOSE EYE ON THAT FixTuRE: “I believe Belgium will have a lot of the ball. They’ll be a lot more on the attack, but the counter-attacking threat of North Macedonia means you have to be concerned and you have to pay them respect. Belgium are top seeds, and of course, they’re there for a reason. What happens in that game is definitely going to have a huge effect on ours.”

RAMSEY RETuRNS

One of the most significant inclusions is Aaron Ramsey, recalled for the first time since September 2024. Now 34, the former captain has made six appearances for Pumas UNAM in Mexico, scoring once, and Bellamy is eager to see his influence back in the national side.

“He’s fit and I haven’t had that luxury with him,” Bellamy said. “When I look back at that first game, he was immense. He has the brain and that’s never going to go.

We have legs in and around him that could really benefit from his type of profile. What I’ve seen is a player when fit that still has a lot to offer in the way we play. He’s a player I massively admire.”

Ramsey last captained Cymru in Bellamy’s debut match as head coach against Türkiye in September 2024. The coach revealed the FAW have been monitoring his training in Mexico closely: “We’ve had his data back,

how he’s training, and everything was positive. So, it’s only been good news for us really.”

FRESH FACES AND KEY RETuRNS Leeds United duo Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon return after missing the September internationals against Kazakhstan and Canada. Jay Dasilva and Nathan Broadhead are also recalled, while Cardiff City trio Dylan Lawlor, Ronan Kpakio and Joel Colwill — who all made their senior debuts last month — retain their places. Cymru currently sit third in Group J, one point behind leaders North Macedonia and level with Belgium, who have a game in hand. With only three fixtures remaining — against Belgium, North Macedonia and Liechtenstein — the margins are razor thin.

THE SquAD iN Full

Goalkeepers: Karl Darlow (Leeds United), Adam Davies (Sheffield United), Tom King (Everton). Defenders: Ben Davies (Tottenham Hotspur), Jay Dasilva (Coventry City), Chris Mepham (West Bromwich Albion), Ben Cabango (Swansea City), Joe Rodon (Leeds United), Dylan Lawlor (Cardiff City), Neco Williams (Nottingham Forest), Ronan Kpakio (Cardiff City). Midfielders: Ethan Ampadu (Leeds United), Aaron Ramsey (Pumas UNAM), Josh Sheehan (Bolton Wanderers), Jordan James (Leicester City, on loan from Stade Rennais), Liam Cullen (Swansea City), Joel Colwill (Cardiff City), Harry Wilson (Fulham), Sorba Thomas (Stoke City), Lewis Koumas (Birmingham City, on loan from Liverpool), David Brooks (Bournemouth). Forwards: Mark Harris (Oxford United), Nathan Broadhead (Wrexham), Brennan Johnson (Tottenham Hotspur), Daniel James (Leeds United), Kieffer Moore (Wrexham).

Macron West Wales Premier League: Cwmamman united 1–2 Seaside AFC

CWMAMMAN uNiTED went into Saturday’s clash on the back of a resounding 5-0 win over third-placed Ynystawe FC and were looking to extend their strong home form against seventh-placed Seaside AFC.

The visitors, however, had other ideas and produced a determined, hightempo performance to leave Grenig Park with a deserved victory.

Seaside started brightly and took the lead after just ten minutes when Minjun Cho broke through the Cwm defence and coolly slotted past Kai Rees. With Cam Berry and Kieran Dawe pulling the strings, Cwm responded well, with Elliot Smith striking the post and forcing a fine save from Seaside goalkeeper Chris Dunkley.

But it was Seaside who struck again, somewhat against the run of play, as Ben Honeybun nipped between two defenders to head home and double the advantage.

Cwm pressed harder in the second half and pulled one back on 53 minutes, Berry finishing off a slick move to give the home side hope. Despite the pressure, Seaside stood firm and continued to threaten on the counter, eventually seeing out the game for a valuable away win.

It was a frustrating afternoon for Cwm, but with the top half of the table still congested they remain well in the mix. They now turn their focus to next Saturday’s FAW Trophy tie away to Dafen Welfare.

Wales to ban greyhound racing by 2030

THE WElSH Government has introduced plans for a phased ban on greyhound racing by 2030, proposing to make it an offence to operate a track or organise races.

Wales’ last remaining track – the Valley Greyhound Stadium in Ystrad Mynach – faces closure after a draft law was introduced in the Senedd to prohibit the sport.

The prohibition of greyhound racing bill, published today (September 29), would make it an offence to operate a track or be involved in organising greyhound racing in Wales.

If ultimately passed by Senedd members as expected, the ban will be phased in – coming into force no

sooner than April 2027 and no later than April 2030.

An implementation group, made up of industry and animal welfare officials, has been set up to advise on the transition, safeguarding greyhounds and mitigating economic impacts.

Huw Irranca-Davies, the deputy first minister, announced the introduction of the bill in a short written statement and will give more details in an oral statement to the Senedd tomorrow.

Mr Irranca-Davies said: “We have listened to the public, considered the evidence and are taking decisive action to prioritise animal welfare. The harm from greyhound racing can no longer be justified in a modern,

compassionate Wales.”

In 2021, Hope Rescue submitted a 35,101-name petition to the Senedd, calling for a ban on greyhound racing and raising concerns about welfare at Wales’ single remaining track.

The petitions committee conducted an inquiry and its report, entitled The Final Bend?, was debated in the Senedd chamber in 2023, with a majority of members backing a ban.

More than 2,000 greyhounds died and nearly 18,000 injuries were recorded on licensed UK tracks, according to evidence from the Cut the Chase coalition of campaigning charities.

A counter-petition, which supported greyhound racing in Wales and raised concerns about the potential impact of a ban, received 10,601 signatures.

The Welsh Government agreed to introduce a ban as part of a deal to pass the 2025/26 budget – struck with Welsh Lib Dem leader Jane Dodds, the party’s sole Senedd member.

Ms Dodds previously said: “Make no mistake, greyhound racing exists for one single purpose: money. Money from the large amounts of bets placed on the suffering of these poor animals. We are a nation that cares for animals and sports like this have no place in Wales.”

The Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) regulates and licenses racing in England, Scotland and Wales, including at the Valley Greyhound Stadium which opened in 1976.

Wales would become the first nation of the UK to ban greyhound

racing. In December, New Zealand announced similar plans for a ban due to injuries and the deaths of dogs.

GBGB disputed the figures provided by Cut the Chase and pointed to its annual, independently audited data that showed 1,100 track side deaths since 2017.

Mark Bird, GBGB’s chief executive, said: “Given the implementation group has not yet reported on the bill, it is concerning that the Welsh Government has decided to rush the introduction of this bill to the Senedd.

“It is disappointing that, despite providing details on the economic contribution the Valley makes, this has been blatantly disregarded in the published impact assessment.

“It remains clear that the Welsh Government’s move to ban greyhound racing continues to be entirely driven by politics, not by what is best for greyhound welfare.

“Meanwhile, welfare is absolutely paramount in licensed racing and all racing greyhounds in Wales continue to benefit from the strong GBGB regulations in place for their protection.”

Mr Bird continued: “With the livelihoods of so many at stake, we would have expected greater due diligence from the Welsh Government and the minister, who is still yet to visit the Valley.

“Our invitation remains open to all Welsh Government representatives so they can see for themselves how a licensed sport protects welfare and supports the local economy.”

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